RU2806271C2 - Aerosol generation system and aerosol generation method - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol generation systems.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to an aerosol generation system and a method for aerosol generation. The aerosol generation system comprises: an aerosol generator containing one metered dose of an aerosol-generating substrate, which in turn contains an amount of an aerosol-generating substrate sufficient to generate an amount of aerosol for only one puff; an air flow passage located between the air inlet and the air outlet; an aerosolisation chamber disposed along the air flow path such that the air flow path extends through at least a portion of the aerosolisation chamber; and a flow controller for selectively controlling air flow through the air flow passage. The flow regulator has an open configuration that allows air to flow into and out of the aerosolisation chamber, and a closed configuration that substantially prevents air from flowing into and out of the aerosolisation chamber. The aerosolisation chamber is configured to open to attach only one aerosol generator at a time. The aerosolisation chamber is configured to be closed to hold the aerosol generator. The aerosol generation system further comprises a heating element configured to heat the aerosolisation chamber when the aerosol generating article is placed within the aerosolisation chamber. The aerosol generation system is configured to heat the aerosolisation chamber containing the aerosol generating product only when the flow regulator is in a closed configuration.

EFFECT: reliable determination of the amount of generated aerosol, ability for the user to more accurately regulate the consumption of an aerosol or one or more aerosol components.

15 cl, 10 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system, a device for use with the system, and a method for generating an aerosol. In particular, the present invention relates to hand-held aerosol-generating systems and devices that vaporize an aerosol-forming substrate by heating to generate an aerosol to be drawn or inhaled by the user.

Hand-held electrical aerosol-generating devices and systems are known which consist of a device-like part containing a battery and a control electronic circuit; parts for holding or receiving an aerosol-forming substrate; and an electrical heater for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. Also included is a mouthpiece portion on which a user can puff to draw the aerosol into his or her mouth.

Some devices and systems use a liquid aerosol-forming substrate or e-liquid stored in a liquid storage portion. Such devices typically use a wick to transfer a liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid storage portion to a heater where it is aerosolized. The problem with such devices is that they may not provide accurate measurements of the amount of aerosol generated during use, and in particular the amount of aerosol generated per puff. Consequently, the user has no idea of his consumption of the aerosol or various aerosol components, which makes it difficult for the user to regulate the amount of aerosol or aerosol components he receives per unit of time or per puff. Although the total amount of liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the liquid storage portion may be known, and therefore the total amount of aerosol produced can be approximately estimated after the liquid storage portion is emptied, such systems and devices do not provide an indication of the amount of aerosol produced per puff.

There are a number of parameters that determine the amount of aerosol generated per puff in a device using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, such as the amount of liquid reaching the heating area, which is related to the capillary action of the wick, the thickness of the wick, the distance from the liquid storage portion to the heater, and the viscosity liquids. Additional parameters that affect the amount of aerosol generated include how quickly the device responds to a puff command, how quickly the heater reaches its operating temperature, and the value of that operating temperature. In addition to these internal device parameters, the amount of aerosol generated is also affected by other parameters related to the condition and use of the device, such as the physical orientation of the device, the amount of liquid remaining in the liquid storage portion (which affects the distance the liquid travels in the wick, and whether whether the wick is wet or dry), the length of time since the device was last used, the duration of the puff, and the ambient temperature. Such parameters make it difficult to reliably determine the amount of aerosol or aerosol components consumed per puff.

Aerosol-generating devices and other types of systems use a solid aerosol-generating substrate, such as tobacco material. Such devices may include a recess for receiving a cigarette-shaped rod containing folded sheets of said tobacco material. A blade-shaped heater located in said recess is inserted into the center of the rod while placing the rod in said recess. The heater is configured to heat the tobacco material to generate an aerosol.

The amount of aerosol generated by such devices is also determined by specific parameters, such as the density distribution of the tobacco sheets around the heater, the orientation of the folded tobacco sheets relative to the heater, the manner in which heat is distributed in the tobacco rod, and the duration of use. Tobacco sheets closest to the heating blade may heat differently than tobacco sheets furthest from the heater, which may result in variability in the amount of aerosol generated over time, as well as possible overheating of the tobacco sheets closest to the heater.

US 2018/317557 A1 describes a vaporization device comprising a housing which is connected to a mouthpiece. Said housing contains a furnace chamber and a condensation chamber. The furnace chamber has a first restriction valve located at the main air inlet of the furnace chamber and a second restriction valve located at the outlet of the furnace chamber. The oven chamber is filled with a vapor-forming medium such as tobacco. The heater is provided with the ability to heat the furnace chamber. As the user inhales, the first and second restriction valves are open and air is drawn in through the main air inlet of the oven chamber and steam is drawn out into the oven chamber. The steam passes into the condensation chamber before exiting the mouthpiece.

It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that would provide a more reliable determination of the amount of aerosol generated. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that allows a user to more precisely control his consumption of the aerosol or one or more aerosol components, or his consumption of both the aerosol and one or more aerosol components. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system that provides a more reliable determination of the amount of aerosol generated. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system that allows a user to more precisely control his aerosol consumption or his consumption of one or more aerosol components. It would be desirable to create a method for generating an aerosol that would provide a more reliable determination of the amount of aerosol generated. It would be desirable to provide a method of generating an aerosol that allows a user to more precisely control his consumption of the aerosol or one or more aerosol components.

According to an aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is provided. The aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating article. The aerosol-generating article may contain one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating system may include an air flow path located between the air inlet and the air outlet. The aerosol generating system may include an aerosolization chamber located along the air flow path such that the air flow path extends through at least a portion of the aerosolization chamber. The aerosol generating system may include a flow regulator to selectively control the flow of air through the air flow passage. The flow regulator may have an open configuration, which allows air to flow into and out of the aerosolization chamber, and a closed configuration, which substantially prevents or blocks air from flowing into and out of the aerosolization chamber. The aerosolization chamber may be configured to receive only one aerosol-generating article at a time. The aerosol generating system may include a heating element. The heating element may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating article when placed within the aerosolization chamber. The aerosol generating system may be configured to heat the aerosol generating article only when the flow regulator is in a closed configuration.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol generating article containing one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate; an air flow passage located between the air inlet and the air outlet; an aerosolization chamber disposed along the air flow path such that the air flow path extends through at least a portion of the aerosolization chamber; and a flow regulator configured to selectively control the flow of air through the air flow passage and having an open configuration that allows air to flow into and out of the aerosolization chamber, and a closed configuration that substantially blocks air from flowing into the aerosolization chamber and flowing out of it; wherein the aerosolization chamber is configured to simultaneously receive only one aerosol-generating product; the aerosol generating system further comprises a heating element configured to heat the aerosol generating article inside the aerosol chamber; and the aerosol generating system is configured to heat the aerosol generating article only when the flow regulator is in a closed configuration.

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating system” refers to a system that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article containing an aerosol-generating substrate. If necessary, the aerosol generating article may also contain one or more additional components, such as a carrier material, a wrapper, etc.

As used herein, the term "metered dose" refers to an aerosol-generating article that has a measured or determined amount of an aerosol-forming substrate. The metered dose corresponds to the dose of aerosol-forming substrate to be delivered to the user during a single inhalation or puff. The metered dose of aerosol-forming substrate includes the component or components necessary to generate the aerosol. For example, the metered dose may contain a specified amount of tobacco or nicotine or flavoring agent, or a combination thereof. The metered dose may also contain an aerosol-forming agent.

As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released as a result of heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate may conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating device or system.

The system allows the user to accurately determine and adjust the dose of aerosol-forming substrate that can be administered. Each aerosol-generating article contains one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate. When a user uses the device, he knows how much aerosol-forming substrate the aerosol-generating article contains and, therefore, how much aerosol or how much of one or more aerosol components he receives. The amount of aerosol generated, and therefore aerosol components, is captured by an aerosol-generating article containing a measured dose or quantity of an aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol generating article is a disposable article. As used herein, the term “disposable” refers to an aerosol-generating product that is designed to be used for only one puff or inhalation before being disposed of. Each time a user puffs or inhales through the aerosol generating system, a fresh aerosol generating article is used. This provides highly reproducible aerosol generation and reduces the variability in aerosol generation that can occur during successive sessions of use of a reusable aerosol generating article, that is, an aerosol generating article having sufficient aerosol-forming substrate for more than one use session.

When using a reusable aerosol-generating product, there may be variability in the amount of aerosol that a user can receive over successive sessions of using the product. However, when using the system of the present invention, each use or puff allows the user to receive only a dose of aerosol components within the metered dose of aerosol-forming substrate provided by the aerosol-generating article. In other words, the maximum dose that a user can receive in one session of use or one puff is determined by the metered dose of the aerosol-forming substrate. Even if the user attempts to reuse the aerosol-generating product, the maximum dose will still be limited to the metered dose of the aerosol-generating substrate.

The system also includes a flow regulator that has a closed configuration to substantially block or restrict air from entering or leaving the aerosolization chamber during heating. The flow controller may limit the flow of generated aerosol from the aerosolization chamber during heating. Thus, the system heats the aerosol-generating article in a closed configuration until the aerosol-generating substrate is aerosolized. Therefore, when the system is ready for the user to puff, he knows how much aerosol or aerosol components he is about to receive. In addition, since the aerosol-generating article is a disposable article and the aerosol generated can be consumed in a single puff, it is possible to reduce any aerosol leakage that might otherwise occur between puffs, for example, when using a reusable aerosol-generating article. This provides an improved understanding of the amount of aerosol and aerosol components consumed and further improves its control. After use, the disposable aerosol generating product can then be discarded and replaced with a fresh product.

The aerosol generating system may be configured to heat the aerosolization chamber while placing the aerosol generating article within the aerosolization chamber such that substantially all of the aerosol generating substrate is aerosolized. As used herein, "substantially all" means that at least 90 percent of the aerosol-forming substrate is aerosolized, more specifically, at least 95 percent of the aerosol-forming substrate is aerosolized, more specifically, at least 98 percent of the aerosol-forming substrate is aerosolized, and even more specifically, at least 99 percent of the aerosol-forming substrate is aerosolized.

The aerosolization chamber may be configured to open to receive an aerosol-generating article. The aerosolization chamber may be configured to be closed to contain the aerosol-generating article. Closing the aerosolization chamber also helps to retain the generated aerosol in the aerosolization chamber during heating until the user is ready to puff.

The aerosolization chamber is configured to simultaneously receive only one disposable aerosol generating aerosol. The aerosolization chamber may be configured to receive only one disposable aerosol-generating article at a time by being sized, shaped, or sized to accommodate only one aerosol-generating article. For example, in the case of a substantially spherical aerosol generating article, such as a spherical granule or pellet, the dimensions of the aerosolization chamber may be less than 2 times the diameter of the aerosol generating article and, more specifically, less than 1.5 times the diameter of the aerosol generating article products. This will prevent more than one item from being placed in the aerosolization chamber, since if there is already an item in the aerosolization chamber, there will not be enough space to insert another one. The relationship of shape, size or dimensions between the aerosol generating article and the aerosol generating system may also allow air to flow around the article in the aerosolization chamber. This may result in some movement of the aerosol generating article within the aerosolization chamber. In turn, this can ensure efficient entrainment of the aerosol into the moving air flow. A moving aerosol-generating article may also produce a sound or “crackling” sound within the aerosolization chamber when it moves. This provides audible feedback to the user indicating the passage of air through the aerosolization chamber when the user puffs or inhales.

Alternatively, the aerosolization chamber may be configured to receive only one disposable aerosol-generating article at a time by having a sensor for detecting the number of aerosol-generating articles in the aerosolization chamber. The sensor may comprise, for example, a capacitive sensor or an inductive sensor for respectively detecting various electric or electromagnetic fields created due to the presence of more than one article in the aerosolization chamber. Optionally, the aerosol generating system may include one or more counters for counting the number of articles entering the aerosolization chamber and the number of articles leaving the aerosolization chamber. Such counters may indicate an incremental count based on a signal generated by activation of a sensor such as a microswitch or optical sensor. The control circuitry may be configured to deactivate or turn off the aerosol generating system if it detects more than one aerosol generating article in the aerosolization chamber until the number of articles is reduced to one.

Alternatively, the aerosolization chamber may be configured to receive only one disposable aerosol-generating article at a time using a delivery mechanism that ensures that only one article is delivered to the aerosolization chamber at a time, for example, by requiring the used article to be ejected before a new article is inserted, or by performing ejection of the used product as part of the step of inserting a new product.

The cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the aerosolization chamber. This allows air to flow around the aerosol-generating article and through the aerosolization chamber. As used herein, cross-sectional area refers to the cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article or aerosolization chamber in a plane perpendicular to the mean direction of air flow through the aerosolization chamber. In the aerosolization chamber, the average direction of air flow is generally a substantially straight line between the points at which the air flow path enters and exits the aerosolization chamber.

In the case of a substantially spherical aerosol-generating article, such as a spherical granule or pellet, at least one cross-sectional dimension of the aerosolization chamber in a direction perpendicular to the average direction of air flow through the aerosolization chamber may be greater than the diameter of the aerosol-generating article, such that allowing air to flow around the aerosol-generating article and through the aerosolization chamber. This also allows the product to move within the chamber, which helps entrain the aerosol into the air flow. Such movement may cause noise, such as a rattling noise, which will provide audible feedback to the user indicating air flow through the aerosolization chamber.

The cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article may be from approximately 60 percent to 90 percent of the cross-sectional area of the aerosolization chamber. This has been found to be a suitable range to allow air to flow around the aerosol generating article and through the aerosolization chamber. This also allows for sufficient movement of the product within the aerosolization chamber.

The aerosolization chamber may include an opening through which an aerosol-generating article may be loaded into the aerosolization chamber, the system further comprising a lid for closing said opening during heating of the aerosol-generating article. This arrangement allows the aerosol-generating article to be inserted into the aerosolization chamber, and the cap prevents any aerosol from leaving the aerosolization chamber until the user is ready to puff or inhale.

The system may further comprise a delivery mechanism for delivering the aerosol generating article to the aerosolization chamber. The delivery mechanism may interact with or surround at least one opening provided in the aerosolization chamber. The delivery mechanism may enable the aerosol generating article to be delivered to the aerosolization chamber. The delivery mechanism may eject the used article prior to or simultaneously with insertion of the fresh article into the aerosolization chamber. The delivery mechanism may include a retractable mechanism. The delivery mechanism may comprise a slider mechanism. The sliding mechanism and the sliding mechanism may contain elastically pressed doors.

If the aerosol-generating article comprises a sheet or strip of absorbent support material coated with or impregnated with an aerosol-generating substrate (as described below), then the delivery mechanism may, in some embodiments, comprise a sufficiently shallow retractable mechanism or slider mechanism to capture the aerosol-generating article by at least at least one of its edges.

The aerosol generating system may include a barrier to prevent the aerosol generating article from escaping or falling out of the aerosolization chamber through the air flow passage. The barrier provides the ability to prevent the aerosol-generating article from leaving the aerosolization chamber both before and after heating. In other words, the barrier provides the ability to prevent the aerosol-generating article from leaving the aerosolization chamber both in the state of the aerosol-generating article prior to heating or aerosolization and in the state of the aerosol-generating article occurring after heating or aerosolization. The dimensions of the aerosol-generating article may be smaller in the post-heating state due to loss of the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, in embodiments in which the aerosol generating article is a substantially spherical pellet containing a core coated with an aerosol-forming substrate (as described below), the barrier may be configured to prevent the pellet and core from exiting the aerosolization chamber through the flow channel air.

If necessary, the obstruction may include reducing the cross-sectional area of the air flow channel at the point of connection of the aerosolization chamber to the rest of the air flow channel. In other words, the cross-sectional area of the air flow channel outside the aerosolization chamber may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the aerosolization chamber. In some embodiments, the air flow path may have a constriction at the point where the aerosolization chamber joins the rest of the air flow path. In the case of a spherical aerosol-generating article, at least one cross-sectional dimension of the air flow channel outside the aerosolization chamber may, in some embodiments, be smaller than the diameter of the aerosol-generating article. This makes it possible to prevent the aerosol-generating article from leaving the aerosolization chamber through the air flow channel. Said section size may be a section size in a direction perpendicular to the average direction of air flow through the air flow passage.

If necessary, the barrier may include a barrier element located across at least a portion of the air flow channel. For example, the barrier may comprise a mesh, plate having at least one through-hole, baffle, hook, protrusion, or other suitable physical barrier to prevent the aerosol-generating article from escaping from the aerosolization chamber.

Obviously, to prevent the aerosol-generating article from entering the downstream portion of the air flow path and being inhaled by the user through the mouthpiece located at the air outlet, it is more important to have an obstruction on the downstream side of the aerosolization chamber. However, the barrier may be located on either the upstream or downstream side of the aerosolization chamber to prevent the aerosol-generating article from passing into the upstream and downstream portions of the air flow path.

The system may further comprise a storage unit for storing a plurality of aerosol generating articles. The storage unit may comprise a blister pack or a reservoir. The storage unit may be integrated with the aerosol generating device, or it may be separate from the device for use within the aerosol generating system.

The storage unit may include a syringe-type dispensing mechanism or pen for storing and dispensing aerosol-generating articles. In some embodiments, the dispensing mechanism may comprise a housing having an outlet opening. A rod may be located inside the casing. The rod may have an interacting surface at a first end. The interacting surface may be configured to interact with the aerosol generating article. The rod may be movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The retracted position may be a position in which the engaging surface of the rod is located entirely within the housing. The extended position may be a position in which the engaging surface of the rod is located outside the housing. When moving the rod between the retracted position and the extended position, the interacting surface of the rod may pass through said outlet hole. The dispensing mechanism may include a loading area to accommodate one aerosol-generating article when the rod is in a retracted position. The loading zone may be located between said outlet and the engaging surface of the rod when the rod is in the retracted position. If desired, the syringe-type dispensing mechanism may be part of the aerosol generating device. If necessary, the pin-type dispensing mechanism can be configured to detachably interact with the aerosol-generating device.

The aerosol generating article may have central symmetry. This makes it possible to generate a reproducible amount of aerosol regardless of the position of the product in the aerosolization chamber. The shape of the aerosol-generating article may also allow air to pass around the article in the aerosolization chamber and allow some movement within the aerosolization chamber. This ensures effective entrainment of the aerosol into the moving air flow. The moving article may also generate a sound or "crack" as it moves within the aerosolization chamber, which provides the user with audible feedback indicating the passage of air through the aerosolization chamber when the user puffs or inhales.

The aerosol generating article may comprise a substantially spherical or spherical granule or pellet. However, the article may have other suitable shapes, such as a lozenge or cuboid shape, or a cubic shape.

The aerosol-generating article may comprise a core coated with an aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the core may comprise a substantially spherical granule or pellet. The core can be made of heat-resistant material. The core can be made of an inert material. The core can be made of either heat-resistant or inert material. As used herein, the term “thermal stable” refers to a core material that can be heated to the aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate without any noticeable structural changes or other undesirable transformations. The aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than 500°C. The aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than 450°C. The aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than 400°C. The aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than 350°C. The aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than 300°C. The term "inert" means that the core material can be heated to the aerosolization temperature in the aerosol substrate without any noticeable chemical change or release of unwanted by-products. The core can be made of glass, metal or ceramic material. For example, the core may comprise a glass sphere. Preferably, the core material is smooth and impermeable or non-porous such that the aerosol-forming substrate is only present on the surface of the core. This facilitates precise control of the amount of aerosol-forming substrate applied to the core surface and reduces bead-to-bead variability. Additionally, an impermeable or non-porous core means that air does not enter the core and can only flow around the outside of the core and not through it. This helps reduce variability in the amount of aerosol generated due to, for example, aerosol-carrying air leaving some of the aerosol within the core, or due to aerosol condensation occurring in the cooler interior portions of the core. Preferably, the core material is not fiber.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may be configured to be inductively heated (as will be described in more detail below). In the case of aerosol generating products intended for induction heating, in some embodiments, the core material may comprise a current collector material. The term "pantograph" as used herein refers to a material that is capable of being inductively heated. In other words, the material of the current collector is capable of absorbing electromagnetic energy and converting it into heat. The current collector material may contain ferromagnetic metal. The current collector material may contain ferritic metal. The pantograph material may comprise a metallic material. The pantograph material may comprise at least one of ferritic cast iron, ferromagnetic steel, stainless steel and aluminum.

In embodiments in which the pantograph material comprises stainless steel, the pantograph material may, in some embodiments, comprise at least one 400 series stainless steel. Suitable 400 series stainless steels include 410 grade, 420 grade, and 430 grade.

In some embodiments, the core may be only partially coated with the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the core may be covered with overlays of an aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the core may be completely coated with the aerosol-forming substrate. The coating of aerosol-forming substrate on the core may have a substantially uniform thickness. The coating of the aerosol-forming substrate can be made to a certain thickness. The thickness of the aerosol-forming substrate can range from 0.1 mm to 1.2 mm.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain a solid. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain liquid. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gel. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain any combination of two or more of a solid, a liquid and a gel.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine, a nicotine derivative, or a nicotine analogue. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain one or more nicotine salts. Said one or more nicotine salts may be selected from the list consisting of nicotine citrate, nicotine lactate, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine pectates, nicotine alginates and nicotine salicylate.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain an aerosol-forming substance. As used herein, an “aerosol generating agent” is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds which, when used, promotes the formation of a dense and persistent aerosol and which, at the operating temperature of the aerosol generating article, is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition. Suitable aerosol-forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; polyhydric alcohol esters such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol-forming agents are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol.

The aerosol-forming substrate may further contain a flavoring agent. The flavoring agent may contain a volatile flavoring component. The flavoring agent may contain menthol. As used herein, the term “menthol” refers to the compound 2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol in any of its isomeric forms. The flavoring agent may provide a taste/aroma selected from the group consisting of menthol, lemon, vanilla, orange, wintergreen, cherry and cinnamon. The flavoring agent may contain volatile tobacco flavoring compounds that are released from the substrate when heated.

The aerosol-forming substrate may further comprise tobacco or tobacco-containing material. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may contain any of the following: tobacco leaves, tobacco stem fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco slurry, cast tobacco leaf, and expanded tobacco. If desired, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco powder compressed through an inert material, such as glass or ceramic or other suitable inert material.

In cases where the aerosol-generating substrate contains a liquid or gel, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may contain an absorbent carrier. The aerosol-forming substrate may be coated or impregnated with an absorbent carrier. For example, the nicotine compound and the aerosol forming agent may be mixed with water as a liquid composition. Said liquid composition may, in some embodiments, further comprise a flavoring agent. Such a liquid composition can then be absorbed through an absorbent carrier or applied to the surface of the carrier. The absorbent carrier may be a sheet of cellulose-based material onto which the nicotine compound and the aerosol generating agent can be applied or absorbed. For example, the absorbent carrier may be a sheet or strip of paper.

The aerosol-generating article may contain an amount of aerosol-forming substrate sufficient to generate an amount of aerosol for only one puff or inhalation or dose. The average puff volume for an adult user will depend on the type of device and aerosol-generating product used, but is typically in the range of approximately 35 ml to 550 ml. Optionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may contain from about 2 to 30 mg of tobacco, more particularly from about 3 to 20 mg of tobacco, more particularly from about 3 to 9 mg of tobacco, and even more particularly from about 4 to 8 mg of tobacco. Optionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may contain from about 80 to 120 μg, more particularly from about 90 to 110 μg, and even more particularly from about 100 μg of nicotine, nicotine derivative or nicotine analogue. If desired, the aerosol-forming substrate may contain from about 6 to 20% aerosol-forming agent by weight. Optionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may contain from about 300 to 1250 μg, more specifically from about 675 to 875 μg of aerosol-forming agent. These quantities of tobacco, nicotine and aerosol forming agent, respectively, have been found to be suitable for one puff or inhalation or dose. In the case of an aerosol-generating article containing an absorbent carrier such as paper, the paper may be perforated or marked to indicate to the user the amount equivalent to one puff or inhalation or individual doses.

The aerosol generating article may comprise a plurality of particles compressed into a granule or pellet, said granule or pellet being configured to disintegrate when heated to a certain temperature to release an aerosol from said plurality of particles. The plurality of particles may be held together by a binder that melts or otherwise loses its binding properties at a certain temperature. Particles can have a known distribution of shape, size and material, so that within one granule or pellet there is a statistically stable and uniform distribution of particles from one pellet to another. As a result, pellet parameters such as overall shape, size and surface area will be consistent from one pellet to the next. Said plurality of particles may contain particles of tobacco and inert material.

There may be different categories of aerosol-generating products, each of which provides a different user experience. For example, these different categories may include products having different formulations or compositions of aerosol-forming substrates, different concentrations of nicotine or other components, and different amounts or thicknesses of aerosol-forming substrates. Aerosol-generating articles belonging to the same category may have the same shape, size or color to enable them to be identified by the user or the aerosol-generating system or device. The aerosol generating system or device may be configured to accept only a certain category of aerosol generating article, for example, by having an opening or delivery mechanism that only accepts a certain size or shape of article. Alternatively, the aerosol generating system or device may be configured to determine the category of an aerosol generating article that is inserted into the system or device, for example, by using a sensor to determine the shape, size, or color of the article. The aerosol generating system or device may store a set of programs or heating modes corresponding to the category of the inserted product. The aerosol generating system or device may be configured to execute a program or heating mode appropriate to the type of article inserted once the category of the article is determined.

The flow regulator may comprise any suitable device for regulating the flow of air through the air flow passage. For example, the flow regulator may comprise a valve such as a check valve, an orifice valve, a butterfly valve, a butterfly valve, a swing valve, a piston valve, a solenoid valve, or any other suitable valve. The flow regulator may include a pair of control elements, each of which contains a portion of an air flow channel. At least one of these elements can be translated or rotated relative to the other element so that its air flow path portion can be aligned with the air flow path portion of the other element when the flow control is in an open configuration or removed from a state of alignment with the air flow path portion of another element when the flow control is in a closed configuration. The flow regulator can be operated manually or electrically.

The heating element may comprise an electrically resistive heating element. The heating element may comprise electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically conductive ceramics (eg, such as molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made from ceramic material and metallic material . Such composite materials may contain alloyed or unalloyed ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, gold and iron alloys, as well as heat-resistant alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal® and iron-manganese-aluminum alloys. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated within, or coated with the insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and the desired external physicochemical properties.

The heating element may be an induction heating element. For example, in some embodiments, the heating element may be configured to be heated by placement within a time-varying electromagnetic field, such as a high-frequency alternating electromagnetic field. The induction heating element may comprise a current collector material. The heating element may be part of an aerosol generating system. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosolization chamber may be at least partially lined or covered with a current collector material. The heating element may be part of the aerosol generating article. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may comprise an induction heating element comprising a current collector material. The susceptor material may be incorporated into aerosol products in any of a variety of ways. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may comprise a core containing susceptor material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a current collector in the form of particles, strips, strips, pieces, pellets, or granules. In some embodiments, the heating element may be part of both the aerosol generating system and the aerosol generating article.

The current collector material may contain ferromagnetic material. The current collector material may contain ferritic material. The current collector material may comprise a metallic material. The pantograph material may comprise at least one of ferritic cast iron, ferromagnetic steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Different materials will generate different amounts of heat when placed within electromagnetic fields that have similar frequencies and field strengths. Therefore, the current collector material can be selected to provide the required power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field. In some embodiments, the susceptor material may be heated by an electromagnetic coil provided in the aerosol generating system and located around the aerosolization chamber.

In those embodiments in which the pantograph material comprises stainless steel, the pantograph material may, in some embodiments, comprise at least one 400 series stainless steel. Suitable 400 series stainless steels include 410 grade, 420 grade, and 430 grade.

The heating element may be located within the aerosolization chamber. For example, in some embodiments, the heating element may extend within the aerosolization chamber, or it may be located on the interior surface of the aerosolization chamber. In some embodiments, the heating element may be configured as a track of electrically resistive material on the interior surface of the aerosolization chamber. In some embodiments, the heating element may comprise an induction heating element that is located within the aerosolization chamber and is heated by an electromagnetic coil located around the aerosolization chamber.

The heating element may be located outside the aerosolization chamber. For example, the heating element may include a resistive heating coil located around the aerosolization chamber.

The heating element may form part of the aerosolization chamber. For example, a heating element may be built into the walls of the aerosolization chamber, or the walls of the aerosolization chamber may comprise an electrically resistive metal container.

The aerosol generating system may comprise a plurality of heating elements.

The aerosol generating system may include insulation provided around the aerosolization chamber. The insulation may comprise vacuum insulation or airgel. The insulation can be U-shaped to provide space for pellets to be inserted and ejected.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating device is provided for use in the aerosol generating system described above. The aerosol generating device may be configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating article. The aerosol-generating article may contain one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may include an air flow path located between the air inlet and the air outlet. The aerosol generating device may include an aerosolization chamber located along the air flow path such that the air flow path passes through at least a portion of the aerosolization chamber. The aerosol generating device may include a flow regulator to selectively control the flow of air through the air flow passage. The flow regulator can have an open configuration and a closed configuration. An open flow regulator configuration may be one that allows air to flow into and out of the aerosolization chamber. A closed flow control configuration may be one that substantially prevents or blocks air from flowing into and out of the aerosolization chamber. The aerosolization chamber may be configured to receive only one aerosol-generating article at a time. The aerosol generating device may include a heating element. The heating element may be configured to heat the aerosolization chamber while placing an aerosol generating article within the aerosolization chamber. The aerosol generating device may be configured to heat the aerosolization chamber housing the aerosol generating article only when the flow regulator is in a closed configuration.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device for use in the above-described aerosol generating system and configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating article containing one metered dose of an aerosol generating substrate, wherein said aerosol generating device comprises: an air flow channel located between air inlet and air outlet; an aerosolization chamber located downstream of the air flow path such that the air flow path extends through at least a portion of the aerosolization chamber; and a flow regulator configured to selectively control the flow of air through the air flow passage and having an open configuration that allows air to flow into and out of the aerosolization chamber, and a closed configuration that substantially prevents or blocks air from flowing into the chamber for aerosolization and leakage; wherein the aerosolization chamber is configured to simultaneously receive only one aerosol-generating product; the aerosol generating device further comprises a heating element configured to heat the aerosolization chamber when the aerosol generating article is placed in the aerosolization chamber; and the aerosol generating device is configured to heat the aerosolization chamber housing the aerosol generating article only when the flow regulator is in a closed configuration.

The device may include a housing for housing an aerosolization chamber, a heating element, an air flow path, and a flow regulator. The housing may include a main body portion. The housing may include a mouthpiece portion. The air inlet can be located along the length of the housing. The air outlet may be located at the mouth end of the mouthpiece portion. This allows the user to puff or inhale the aerosol through an air outlet, which may be provided on or within the mouthpiece portion. The mouthpiece part can be designed to be separated from the main part.

The aerosol generating device may comprise an electrical power source. The aerosol generating device may include a control circuit. The main body portion may contain an electrical power source. The main body portion may contain a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to control the supply of power to the heating element from a power source. The control circuit may include a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, microcontroller, or application specific integrated chip (ASIC), or other electronic circuit capable of providing control. The control circuit may contain additional electronic components. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit may include any of sensors, switches, and display elements. Power may be supplied to the heating element during the puffing time, either continuously or in the form of pulses of electrical current. The power source may be a battery. The battery may be a lithium iron phosphate battery located within the device. Alternatively, the power source may be another type of charge storage device, such as a capacitor.

In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a sensor located within or adjacent to the aerosolization chamber to monitor the temperature of the aerosolization chamber or heating element. In some embodiments, the control circuitry may control the temperature of the heating element. In some embodiments, the control circuitry may control the temperature of the heating element by determining the electrical resistance of the heating element, which is related to the temperature of the heating element. The relationship between resistance and temperature can be determined in an algorithm. The relationship between resistance and temperature can be determined from a lookup table stored in the control circuit's memory.

The device may include a sensor for detecting puffing. The sensor may include a flow detector located in the secondary air flow channel. The secondary air flow path may have a smaller cross-section than the air flow path through the aerosolization chamber. The air flow path passing through the aerosolization chamber may be referred to as the primary air flow path. In some embodiments, the sensor may comprise a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may be located near the mouthpiece of the device. The capacitive sensor may be configured to detect contact of the mouthpiece with the user's lips.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a method for generating an aerosol is provided. The method may generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may contain one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate. The method may include providing an air flow path between the air inlet and the air outlet. The method may include providing an aerosolization chamber located along an air flow path such that the air flow path passes through at least a portion of said aerosolization chamber. The method may include placing one aerosol generating article within the aerosolization chamber. The method may include closing the air flow path to substantially prevent or block air from flowing into and out of the aerosolization chamber. The method may include heating an aerosolization chamber containing an aerosol-generating article such that aerosolization of the aerosol-forming substrate occurs while the air flow path is closed. The method may include opening the air flow passage so that the user can inhale the generated aerosol through the air outlet.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of generating an aerosol that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating article containing one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate; said method includes: providing a passage for air flow between the air inlet and the air outlet; providing an aerosolization chamber located along the air flow path such that the air flow path passes through at least a portion of the aerosolization chamber; placing one aerosol generating article within the aerosolization chamber; closing the air flow path to substantially prevent or block air flow from flowing into and out of the aerosolization chamber; heating the aerosolization chamber housing the aerosol-generating article so that the aerosol-forming substrate is aerosolized while the air flow path is closed; and opening the air flow path so that the user can take puffs of the generated aerosol through the air outlet.

The method may include raising the temperature in the aerosolization chamber to a certain temperature before placing the aerosol-generating article in the aerosolization chamber. This allows any variability in the initial temperature of the aerosolization chamber upon insertion of the aerosol generating article to be reduced. Such variability may be due to the process being performed at different ambient temperatures, such as indoors and outdoors, or due to general climate change. Said determined temperature may be an aerosolization temperature. Preferably, the aerosolization temperature is in the range of 160 to 350° C. inclusive, and the temperature used may depend on the type of aerosol-forming substrate and the taste preferences of the user. The aerosol generating system or device may be configured to allow the user to control the aerosolization temperature depending on his or her taste preferences.

In some embodiments, the method includes increasing the temperature inside the aerosolization chamber to a first determined temperature. The first determined temperature may be below the aerosolization temperature used to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The first temperature detected may be a higher temperature than the maximum ambient temperature typically encountered. For example, in some embodiments, the first determined temperature may be in the range of 50°C to 300°C. In some embodiments, the first determined temperature may be in the range of 50°C to 250°C. In some embodiments, the first determined temperature may be in the range of 50°C to 200°C. In some embodiments, the first determined temperature may be in the range of 50°C to 150°C. In some embodiments, the first detected temperature may be in the range of 50°C to 100°C. The method may include increasing the temperature inside the aerosolization chamber to a second determined temperature. The second determined temperature may be an aerosolization temperature designed to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The method may include increasing the temperature in the aerosolization chamber to a second determined temperature in response to a signal indicating an event. The event may be the insertion of an aerosol-generating article. The event may be the user pressing a button to signal to the device that he wants to begin taking a puff. The event may be detection of contact between the mouthpiece and the user's mouth. This event may be a puff detection. Said event may be detection of the start of a puff.

In some embodiments, instead of heating the aerosolization chamber to a specific temperature, the method may include determining the initial temperature of the aerosolization chamber, for example, using a temperature sensor, and accounting for any deviation from the ideal initial temperature as part of the heating process. The algorithm for taking into account such deviations can be stored in memory, for example in a microcontroller that forms part of the control circuit.

The features described in relation to one or more aspects may be equally applied to other aspects of the present invention. In particular, the features described with respect to an aerosol generating system can be equally applied to an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating method, and vice versa .

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described solely by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

In FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating article for use in a system or apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of another aerosol generating article for use in a system or device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 3 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 4A is a flowchart of an aerosol generation method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 4B is a flowchart of a method for generating an aerosol according to another embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the aerosolization chamber of the apparatus of FIG. 3, illustrating the flow of air around an aerosol generating article located inside an aerosolization chamber.

In FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 3, illustrating an opening for delivering an aerosol generating article into an aerosolization chamber.

In FIG. 7A is a schematic side view of a device according to another embodiment of the present invention having a retractable mechanism for delivering an aerosol generating article to the aerosolization chamber of the device.

In FIG. 7B and 7C are schematic sectional views taken along line A-A in FIG. 7A, illustrating the retractable mechanism in an open and closed configuration, respectively.

In FIG. 8 is a plan view of a blister pack for storing aerosol generating articles for use in a system or device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 9A, 9B and 9C show schematic side views of a syringe-type dispensing mechanism for storing and delivering aerosol generating articles for use in a system or device according to an embodiment of the present invention at three different stages of operation, respectively.

In FIG. 10 is a plan cross-sectional view of a device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention having a built-in storage and delivery mechanism, respectively, for storing a plurality of aerosol generating articles and delivering the aerosol generating articles to the aerosolization chamber of the device.

In FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating article for use in an aerosol generating system or apparatus. The aerosol-generating article comprises a substantially spherical or spherical granule or pellet 1 having a core 2 which is coated with an aerosol-forming substrate 4. The core 2 is made of glass, which is an inert material and therefore does not form unwanted by-products when the granule 1 is heated. Glass also has a high melting point and is therefore able to withstand temperatures (usually less than 500°C) that are typically encountered when heated without losing its structural integrity. The glass core 2 is also smooth and impermeable or non-porous, so that the aerosol-forming substrate 4 is located only on its surface. This facilitates precise control of the amount of aerosol-forming substrate 4 deposited onto the surface of the core 2 and reduces variability between beads.

Being essentially spherical, granule 1 has central symmetry, which ensures the generation of a reproducible amount of aerosol regardless of the position of the granule in the aerosolization chamber. The spherical shape also allows for movement within the aerosolization chamber. In addition, the impermeable or non-porous core means that air can only flow around the outer surface of the granule 1 and not through it. This helps to reduce variability in the amount of aerosol produced, due, for example, to the fact that the air carrying the aerosol leaves part of the aerosol inside the pellet, or to the condensation of the aerosol in the colder internal parts of the pellet 1.

Other suitable materials for the core 2 may be used, such as ceramic or thermoset plastic. In the case of aerosol generating products that are intended for induction heating, the core 2 may comprise a current collector material such as stainless steel.

The granule 1 is a disposable aerosol-generating article and contains a metered dose of aerosol-forming substrate 4. The metered dose is an amount of aerosol-forming substrate 4 sufficient to generate the amount of aerosol for only one puff or inhalation. Aerosol-forming substrate 4 contains 100 μg of nicotine, which was found to be an amount of nicotine suitable for only one puff. During a typical session, a user may take 10 to 12 puffs on the aerosol generating device, and therefore will use 10 to 12 pellets 1 and receive approximately 1.0 to 1.2 mg of nicotine. However, the user does not need to use each of the specified 10-12 granules in one session and can simply puff at will to obtain a measured dose. In the described embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 4 contains from 20% to 47% cellulose (on a dry weight basis); 8% carboxymethylcellulose; 3% fiber; 35% glycerin; and 2% nicotine lactate.

The aerosol-forming substrate 4 is formulated as a suspension and coated around the glass core 2 before curing. Granule 1 has an overall diameter of approximately 5 mm, with core 2 having a diameter of approximately 3 to 3.5 mm and aerosol-forming substrate 4 having a thickness of approximately 0.75 to 1 mm.

In FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of another aerosol generating article 10 for use in an aerosol generating system or apparatus. The aerosol generating article 10 includes a length of paper strip 14 that is wound on a spool 12. The paper strip 14 acts as an absorbent carrier material that is impregnated with a liquid or gel aerosol-forming substrate (not shown). The paper strip 14 is provided with a series of marks or perforations 16 spaced across its width to form a series of paper sections 18. Each paper section 18 contains an amount of aerosol-forming substrate sufficient to generate the amount of aerosol for just one puff. In use, the user may tear one paper section 18 along the next plurality of marks or perforations 16 and insert the paper section 18 into an aerosol generating device or system for generating an aerosol for one puff. The aerosol-forming substrate contains a nicotine salt and an aerosol-forming agent. Coil 12 includes a cover (not shown) for covering coil 12 when not in use to prevent evaporation or deterioration of the aerosol-forming substrate.

In FIG. 3 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 100 including a housing 102 having a main body portion 102a and a mouthpiece portion 102b. The main body portion 102a includes a battery 104, which acts as a power source, and a control circuit 106 for controlling the operation of the device 100. The mouthpiece portion 102b includes an air inlet 110 located at the top of the housing 102, and an air outlet 112, located in the mouthpiece 114 at the mouth end of the mouthpiece portion 102b. Between the air inlet 110 and the air outlet 112, an air flow channel 108 is located. The air flow path is configured as a path or passage that passes through the mouthpiece portion 102b. The aerosolization chamber 116 is located along the air flow channel 108. At least a portion of the air flow path 108 passes through the aerosolization chamber 116. In other words, the aerosolization chamber 116 is part of the air flow channel 108.

In the described embodiment, a first heating element 118 is located at the top of the aerosolization chamber 116, and a second heating element 120 is located at the bottom of the aerosolization chamber 116. However, in some embodiments, the aerosolization chamber may be heated by a single heating element that lines the walls. aerosolization chambers. Heating elements 118 and 120 are resistive heating elements and are electrically coupled to battery 104 via control circuit 106 . Heating elements 118 and 120 are arranged such that they heat the aerosol generating article housed within the aerosolization chamber 116. The aerosolization chamber 116 has an opening or opening (not shown) such that the aerosolization chamber is capable of receiving an aerosol-generating article. Said opening may be closed to contain the aerosol-generating article. In FIG. 3 shows a granule 1 such as that shown in FIG. 1, located inside the aerosolization chamber. The aerosolization chamber 116 also includes a temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting the temperature inside the aerosolization chamber 116.

The aerosol generating device 100 further includes a first valve 122 located along the air flow path 108 upstream of the aerosolization chamber 116, and a second valve 124 located along the air flow path 108 downstream of the aerosolization chamber 116. Valves 122 and 124 are electrically actuated and coupled to and controlled by control circuit 106. Valves 122 and 124 act as a flow regulator to selectively control the flow of air through the air flow path 108, particularly through the aerosolization chamber 116. When valves 122 and 124 are open, air is allowed to flow into and out of aerosolization chamber 116, and when valves 122 and 124 are closed, air into and out of aerosolization chamber 116 is substantially blocked. Therefore, the valves 122 and 124 are capable of isolating the aerosolization chamber 116 in such a way that the granule 1 can be heated in a closed system, that is, the flow of aerosol from the aerosolization chamber 116 is suppressed when the valves 122 and 124 are closed.

To enable the user to indicate to the device 100 that he wants to tighten, a switch 126 is provided. The switch 126 is located on the outer top surface of the housing 102 and is connected to the control circuit 106. When switch 126 is pressed, a signal is sent to control circuit 106 that the user wants to tighten. An indicator in the form of a light emitting diode (LED) 128 is provided on the outer top surface of the housing 102 to indicate to the user that aerosolization chamber 116 has created an aerosol and the device 100 is ready for puffing.

In FIG. 4A is a flow diagram illustrating a method 200a for generating an aerosol from a disposable aerosol generating article that is described herein and contains a specified amount of an aerosol-forming substrate. The method can be performed using an aerosol generating system or device described herein.

The method begins at step S1, in which the user requests a puff. Tightening can be requested as required, for example:

as a result of the user pressing a switch; or as a result of user activation of a mechanism to deliver pellets into the aerosolization chamber; or

by detecting the user's placement of the mouthpiece of the device in his lips, for example, using a capacitive sensor located in the mouthpiece; or

as a result of puff detection, i.e. using a flow sensor to detect when the user takes a puff on the device.

Alternatively, a holdover may be requested under a planned program, such as a medical program. In this case, when the scheduled time for tightening is reached, according to the method, an indication can be made to the user, for example by a visual or audible alert, and the user can decide whether or not to confirm the start of the process, for example, by pressing a switch. In the device 100 of FIG. 3, the tightening request is made by pressing switch 126.

The next step S2 is to close the air flow channel. This essentially blocks air from flowing into and out of the aerosolization chamber so that an aerosol can be generated within the aerosolization chamber and retain the aerosol until the user takes a puff. In the device 100 of FIG. 3 this is achieved by closing valves 122 and 124.

The next step S3 is to increase the temperature in the aerosolization chamber to a certain temperature. In this embodiment, said determined temperature is the aerosolization temperature required to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. Preheating the aerosolization chamber to the aerosolization temperature provides the ability to reduce the variability of the initial temperature of the aerosolization chamber upon insertion of the aerosol generating article. The aerosolization temperature depends on the type of aerosol-forming substrate used as well as the taste preference of the user, and in this embodiment is from 160 to 350°C inclusive. The aerosol generating system or device will be aware of what type of aerosol generating article it is intended to heat, either because it is adapted to heat a particular type of article, or because it is able to determine the type of article inserted into the aerosolization chamber based on attributes of the product, such as its shape or color, or because the user has entered such information, for example through a user interface (not shown). Therefore, they will know the type of aerosol-generating substrate contained in the article, the thickness of the aerosol-forming substrate on the core 2 or support material, and the geometry of the aerosol-generating article. Thus, the device has the ability to determine to what aerosolization temperature the device should heat the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, the user can adjust the aerosolization temperature through the user interface according to their taste preferences.

In the device 100 of FIG. 3, a temperature sensor (not shown) located in the aerosolization chamber 116 transmits a signal to the control circuit 106 that the aerosolization chamber 116 has reached the aerosolization temperature. The LED 128 may indicate that the aerosolization chamber 116 has reached the aerosolization temperature, for example, by flashing or displaying a specific color. Once the aerosolization chamber 116 has reached the aerosolization temperature, it is ready to receive an aerosol generating article such as the granule 1 shown in FIG. 1. The device can prevent the granule from being inserted into the aerosolization chamber until the aerosolization temperature is reached.

Step S3 is not essential to the aerosol generation method 200a. Instead of heating the aerosolization chamber to a certain temperature, according to the method it is possible to determine the initial temperature of the aerosolization chamber, for example, using the temperature sensor of the device 100 in FIG. 1, and taking into account any deviation from the ideal initial temperature within the heating process, i.e. in step S5 described below. An algorithm for accounting for such deviations may be stored in memory, for example in a microcontroller forming part of the control circuit 106 of the device 100 of FIG. 1.

The next step S4 consists of inserting one aerosol generating article into the aerosolization chamber. Only one aerosol-generating product is inserted at a time, and only one product is present in the aerosolization chamber at a time to deliver one metered dose. Therefore, the product is inserted into the aerosolization chamber only after, or simultaneously with, the previous spent product has been evacuated from the aerosolization chamber. A number of methods for inserting an aerosol generating article are described below.

The next step S5 is to heat the aerosol generating article for a certain period of time to generate an aerosol. The temperature is already at the aerosolization temperature level. The aerosol generating device will know what type of aerosol generating article it is intended to heat, either because it is adapted to heat a certain type of article, or because it is able to determine the type of article that is inserted into the aerosolization chamber based on attributes product, such as its shape or color, or because the user has entered such information, for example through a user interface (not shown). Therefore, he will know the type of aerosol-generating substrate contained in the article, the thickness of the aerosol-forming substrate on the core 2 or support material, and the geometry of the aerosol-generating article. Thus, the device has the ability to determine how long the aerosol-generating article should be heated at the aerosolization temperature to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. As in the previous cases, the heating algorithm or lookup table containing the heating parameters may be stored in memory, for example in a microcontroller forming part of the control circuit 106 of the device 100 of FIG. 1. The aerosol-generating article is heated so that substantially all of the aerosol-generating substrate is aerosolized and so that the user knows how much aerosol and aerosol components he is receiving. Once all of the aerosol-forming substrate has been aerosolized, the process reaches a stage where puffing can be carried out.

The next step S6 is to provide an indication that tightening is possible. By indicating to the user that he can take a puff, it is possible to reduce the variability in the amount of aerosol delivered to the user, since the user is prevented from taking a puff while the aerosol is still being generated. The guidance may be provided by providing a visual or audio signal to the user or by some other signal, such as tactile feedback. In the device 100 of FIG. 3, the indication is provided by the LED indicator 128, for example by changing it from a flashing state to a solid state or by changing color, for example from yellow to green.

The next step S7 is to detect the start of tightening. The onset of puffing can be detected in several different ways, for example:

by detecting that the switch has been pressed followed by providing an indication that tightening can be performed; or

by providing a secondary air flow path having a smaller cross-sectional area so as not to interfere with the primary air flow path passing through the aerosolization chamber, and using a flow sensor or puff sensor to detect the air flow passing through the secondary air flow path as a result of the implementation user tightening; or

by detecting the user's placement of the mouthpiece of the device in his lips, for example, using a capacitive sensor located in the mouthpiece.

In the device 100 of FIG. 3, the start of tightening is detected when the user presses switch 126 following provision of an indication that tightening can occur.

The next step S8 is to open the air flow path to allow the generated aerosol to exit the aerosolization chamber and be puffed by the user. In the device 100 of FIG. 3 this is achieved by opening valves 122 and 124.

The next step S9 is to determine the end of the tightening. The end of the tightening can be determined, for example, in the following ways:

by waiting a certain period of time from the start of the puff to complete the puff; or

by detecting the disappearance of the puff sensor signal after a time T1 for a certain time period T, wherein said puff sensor signal was activated at the time the puff was started; for example, if T1<T, then this would indicate that the user interrupted the puff before it was completed and, therefore, did not receive the full amount of aerosol, and if T1>T, then this would indicate that the puff was completed and the method could be reset for a new puff; or

by detecting the distance of the user's lips from the mouthpiece of the device, for example, using a capacitive sensor; or

by a combination of the above.

A puff sensor for detecting the end of a puff may be placed on the primary air flow path, i.e. channel passing through the aerosolization chamber, since it will be open during the puff. The puff sensor may monitor the flow of air drawn through the air flow channel during a puff, and any change can be assessed to determine whether the amount of air drawn through the aerosolization chamber during a puff was sufficient to produce all the aerosol in the aerosolization chamber . The amount of aerosol generated and any change in the amount of aerosol produced may be stored in a memory, such as in the memory of a microcontroller forming part of the control circuit 106 of the device 100 of FIG. 3, and they provide information about the amount of aerosol and aerosol components received by the user.

The final step S10 of method 200a is to evacuate the spent aerosol generating article and any remaining air or aerosol in the aerosolization chamber. This can be achieved for example:

by providing an evacuation mechanism, such as a piston, to push the aerosol-generating article out of the device or system or toward a waste product receptacle. This will also evacuate any remaining aerosol in the aerosolization chamber; or

by performing evacuation of the aerosol-generating article as part of the step of inserting a new article in such a way that evacuation occurs automatically; for example, the mechanism for inserting a new article may simultaneously evacuate the used article from the aerosolization chamber and also remove any remaining aerosol.

Any remaining aerosol in the aerosolization chamber can be removed through the main air flow channel or through a special escape channel. Any aerosol remaining in the aerosolization chamber after puffing will cool and condense or otherwise have an undesirable change in its properties. Therefore, having a dedicated escape duct may be useful to prevent remaining aerosol from contaminating the main air flow duct.

In FIG. 4B is a flow diagram illustrating yet another method 200b for generating an aerosol from a disposable aerosol generating article as described herein and containing a specified amount of an aerosol-forming substrate. As in the previous cases, the method can be performed using an aerosol generating system or device described herein.

In FIG. 4B, steps S1, S2, S4 and S5-S10 of method 200b are identical to the corresponding steps set forth for method 200a of FIG. 4A.

Step S3 of method 200b includes increasing the temperature in the aerosolization chamber to a first determined temperature. The first temperature determined is lower than the aerosolization temperature used to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The first temperature detected is above the normally encountered maximum ambient temperature. The specific temperature in the described embodiment is approximately 90°C, although it can be varied if necessary. The first temperature detected is also typically higher than the level to which the temperature of the aerosolization chamber or heating element drops before the next heating cycle when no power is applied to it, i.e. due to heat loss between puffs. This allows any variability in the initial temperature of the aerosolization chamber upon insertion of the aerosol generating article to be reduced. In the device 100 of FIG. 3, a temperature sensor (not shown) located in the aerosolization chamber 116 transmits a signal to the control circuit 106 that the aerosolization chamber 116 has reached a first determined temperature. The LED 128 may indicate that the aerosolization chamber 116 has reached a first determined temperature, for example, by flashing or displaying a specific color. Once the aerosolization chamber 116 has reached a certain temperature, it is ready to receive an aerosol-generating article such as the granule 1 shown in FIG. 1. The device can prevent the granule from being inserted into the aerosolization chamber until the first certain temperature is reached.

In step S4 of method 200b, the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosolization chamber in the same manner as in method 200a.

Method 200b of FIG. 4B further includes an additional step compared to method 200a of FIG. 4A, that is, step S4a, which includes detecting an aerosol generating article in the aerosolization chamber. This may be accomplished by a sensor, such as an optical sensor or microswitch, which is activated upon insertion of the aerosol-generating article.

Method 200b of FIG. 4B further includes an additional step S4b in which the temperature in the aerosolization chamber is increased to a second determined temperature. The second temperature determined is the aerosolization temperature required to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. Determination of aerosolization temperature according to method 200b is the same as according to method 200a.

In FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the aerosolization chamber 116 of the device 100 of FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 3, an aerosol generating product in the form of a substantially spherical granule 1 according to FIG. 1 is located in the aerosolization chamber 116 between the upper and lower heating elements 118 and 120. The aerosolization chamber 116 is sized to receive only one granule 1. An air flow passage 108 enters the aerosolization chamber 116 on the left in FIG. 5 and exits the aerosolization chamber 116 on the right in FIG. 5. The cross-sectional area of the granule 1 in a plane perpendicular to the direction of air flow through the air flow passage 108 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the aerosolization chamber 116, so that air can flow around the granule 1 and through the aerosolization chamber 116. The smaller cross-sectional area of the granule 1 also allows the granule 1 to move within the aerosol chamber 116. The dotted arrows 140 in FIG. 5 schematically shows an example of air flow through the air flow path 108 and the aerosolization chamber 116. After entering the aerosolization chamber 116 through the air flow path, the air flow is deflected around the granule 1 before exiting the aerosolization chamber 116 through the air flow path 108 along substantially the same line as upon entry. The flow of air around the granule 1 causes the granule to move within the aerosol chamber 116. This creates a popping sound that provides an audible indication to the user that air is flowing through the aerosolization chamber. The movement of the granule 1 within the aerosolization chamber 116 also promotes the entrainment of the generated aerosol into the air flow 140.

As shown in FIG. 5, the cross-sectional area of the air flow channel 108 in a plane perpendicular to the direction of air flow through the air flow channel 108 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the granule 1. The height or diameter of the air flow channel 108 is smaller than the diameter of the granule 1 and the diameter of the granule core 2 1. Consequently, the reduced diameter of the air flow passage 108 acts as a barrier that prevents the granule 1 from exiting the aerosolization chamber 1 through the air flow passage 108 in both pre-heating and post-heating states of the granule 1. Granule 1 and core 2 simply will not pass into the air flow channel 108. However, other forms of suitable barrier may be used; for example, a physical element such as a mesh may be placed across at least a portion of the inlet and outlet of the air flow path 108.

In FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the device 100 of FIG. 3. The device 100 includes an opening 150 for delivering an aerosol generating article to the aerosolization chamber 116. The opening 150 defines a path opening (not shown) that extends from the opening 150 to a similar opening (not shown) in the side wall of the aerosolization chamber 116. This path allows communication between the area outside the device 100 and the inside area of the aerosolization chamber 116 so that an aerosol-generating article can be inserted into the aerosolization chamber 116. The opening 150 is defined by a flush rim 152 that is configured to engage the end of an insertion device, such as the insertion handle shown in Figures 9A-9C. The opening 150 is covered by a movable cover 154 that can be moved back and forth, as indicated by a double-sided arrow in FIG. 6, between a closed position in which it covers the opening 150 and an open position in which the opening 150 is accessible for insertion of an aerosol generating article. The cover 154 is pressed toward the closed position by a spring (not shown). A similar opening and cover (not shown) is provided on the opposite side of the device to allow removal of the aerosol generating article from the aerosolization chamber 116. When inserting an aerosol generating article such as the granule 1 shown in FIG. 1, through opening 150, the spent granule already in the aerosolization chamber 116 will be pushed out of the opposite opening so that only one granule can be present inside the aerosolization chamber 116 at a time.

In FIG. 7A is a schematic side view of a device 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Functions and operating principle of the device 300 shown in FIG. 7A are similar to those of the device 100 of FIG. 3, except that the device 300 has a retractable mechanism 360 that can be pulled out from the housing 302 of the device 300 to deliver the aerosol generating article to the aerosolization chamber 316.

In FIG. 7B and 7C are enlarged schematic cross-sectional views taken along line A-A in FIG. 7A, and the retractable mechanism 360 is shown in more detail. FIG. 7B shows the retractable mechanism 360 in an open configuration. The retractable mechanism 360 includes a retractable section 362 having a base 362a and a retractable section wall 362b extending substantially transversely to the base 362a at an outer end of the retractable section 362. The retractable section wall 362b forms part of the casing 302 of the apparatus 300 and corresponds to the curved shape of the casing 302. The retractable wall 362b noah section is covered by an opening 350 formed in the side of the housing 302 when the retractable mechanism 360 is in a closed configuration (see FIG. 7C). The drawer base 362a slidably engages a pair of guides 364 located on each side of the aerosolization chamber 316 such that the drawer 362 is slidable in and out of the device 300. Extending from the base 362a of the drawer section are first 366 and second 368 vertical posts that define between them a receiving area 370 for receiving the aerosol-generating article. In FIG. 7B shows granule 1 of FIG. 1 located in the receiving area 370. The first 366 and second 368 vertical posts form part of the side walls of the aerosolization chamber 316 and respectively cover the openings 372 and 374 formed in the side walls of the aerosolization chamber 316 when the retractable mechanism 360 is in a closed configuration (see 7C) to prevent aerosol from escaping from the aerosolization chamber 316 during heating. The uprights 366 and 368 are connected by a pair of side walls (not shown) to form the side edges of the receiving area and to prevent granule 1 from rolling out between the uprights 366, 368 when the drawer mechanism is in an open configuration. The side walls of the receiving area 370 are inserted into the sides of the drawer base 362a, which cooperates with the guides 364 to prevent unwanted interaction of the side walls with the guides as the drawer 362 slides into the device 300.

In FIG. 7C shows the retractable mechanism 360 in a closed configuration. In a closed configuration, the drawer wall 362b covers an opening 350 formed in the housing 302 of the apparatus 300, and the uprights 366 and 368, respectively, cover the openings 372 and 374 formed in the side walls of the aerosolization chamber 316. The aerosol generating granule 1 is placed inside the aerosolization chamber 316 and can be heated. Once the pellet 1 is heated, the drawer mechanism 360 can be returned to an open configuration to remove the used pellet 1. The drawer section 362 has a spring-loaded locking mechanism (not shown) that is opened and closed by pressing. The user can open the drawer 362 by pressing the drawer wall 362b inward a short distance to release the latch, which causes the drawer to open under spring action. The drawer section 362 can be closed by pushing the drawer section wall 362b a short distance into the housing 302 to re-engage with the latch so that the drawer section 362 is held in the closed configuration by spring action.

In FIG. 8 is a plan view of a blister pack 400 for storing a plurality of aerosol generating articles for use in an aerosol generating system or device. The blister pack 400 acts as a storage unit for the products. The blister pack 400 includes a polymer layer 478 having a plurality of blisters or cells 480 extending from a first surface 478a of the polymer layer 478. The blisters 480 may be used to store aerosol generating articles (not shown). A second, opposite surface (not shown) of the polymer layer 478 is covered with a frangible coating layer (not shown) that is sealed to the second surface to seal the articles with the blisters 480. In use, the user manually removes the aerosol generating article from the blister pack 400 by tearing the frangible cover layer and then manually inserts the article into the aerosol generating device, for example, through the opening 150 of the device 100 of FIG. 1 or through the retractable mechanism 360 of the device 300 of FIG. 7A-7C.

In FIG. 9A, 9B, and 9C show schematic side views of a syringe-type dispensing mechanism 500 or pen for storing and delivering aerosol-generating articles for use in an aerosol system or device. The figures show the dispensing mechanism 500 in three different stages of operation, respectively.

The dispensing mechanism includes a housing 582 including a rod 583, a carriage 584, and two springs 585. Within the housing 582, a first storage area 586 is provided for storing a plurality of aerosol-generating granules 1 in an axially aligned state. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9A-9C, the dispensing mechanism 500 also includes within the housing 582 a second storage area 587, also for storing a plurality of aerosol-generating granules 1 in an axially aligned state. The dispensing mechanism 500 includes an outlet 588 at the lower dispensing end of the housing 582. The outlet 588 is surrounded by a protruding rim 594 that is configured to engage with the opening, or more specifically, the flush rim of the aerosol generating device opening, such as the opening 150 or recessed flush with the rim 152 of the device 100 of FIG. 6. The dispensing mechanism 500 further includes a loading area 589 located between two storage areas 586 and 587 and an outlet 588. The loading area 589 is sized to accommodate one aerosol generating granule 1. The dispensing mechanism 500 further includes a first 591 and a second 592 solid stops located on both sides of the lower end of the loading area 589.

The carriage 584 is pressed by springs toward the aerosol-forming granules 1 stored in the first 586 and second 587 storage zones. The carriage 584 further includes a first end surface 595 and a second end surface 597 that define a rear end of the first 586 and second 587 storage areas, respectively. The first end surface 595 is further forward, i.e. further toward the outlet 588 than the second end surface 597. The longitudinal distance between the first 595 and second end surfaces 597 is equal to half the diameter of one aerosol-forming granule 1.

The rod 583 can be moved back and forth along the central longitudinal axis of the housing 582 through a longitudinally extending central channel 593 formed through the carriage 584. At its dispensing end, the rod 583 has an interaction surface 596 for interacting with the aerosol generating granule 1, and the interaction surface 596 projects laterally so that it is wider than the main body of the rod 583. The rod 583 is actuated by a button 590 located on the drive end of the rod 583, i.e. at the end opposite the engagement surface 596. Each side of the rod 583 has a toothed section (not shown) that engages a corresponding rod engagement mechanism provided on each of the respective internal surfaces of the channel 593. The inner surface of the housing 582 also has a toothed section. , facing each side of the carriage 584 and interacting with a corresponding housing engagement mechanism on each side of the carriage 584.

In FIG. 9A, each storage zone 586 and 587 encloses four axially aligned aerosol-generating granules 1, and loading zone 589 encloses one aerosol-generating granule 1. In the step shown in FIG. 9A, button 590 is pressed and rod 583 begins to advance toward outlet 588. At this point, rod engagement mechanism located on carriage 584 interacts with the toothed sections of rod 583. As a result, carriage 584 also advances toward outlet 588. As the carriage 584 advances, it pushes rows of axially aligned aerosol-generating granules 1 in both of the first 586 and second 587 storage zones toward the outlet 588.

In FIG. 9B, the carriage 584 is unable to advance further because the aerosol-generating granules 1 in the first storage zone 586 are pressed against the first hard stop 591 by the first end surface 595 of the carriage 584. At this point, the rod engagement mechanism disengages, the rod 583 continues to advance regardless carriage 584 and pushes the aerosol-generating granule 1 located in the loading area 589 of FIG. 9A, toward the outlet 588. The dispensing end of the rod 583 has passed through the outlet 588 and continues to push the aerosol generating granule 1 until the rod reaches the fully extended position. At this point, the aerosol-generating granule 1 will be inside the aerosolization chamber of the aerosol-generating device.

In FIG. 9C, rod 583 is moved back to the fully retracted position. A housing engagement mechanism located on the carriage 584 prevents the carriage 584 from moving rearwardly with the rod 583. As the engagement surface 596 of the rod 583 passes through the first 586 and second 587 storage zones, the projections on the engagement surface 596 push a row of aligned aerosol-generating granules 1 in the second zone 587 storage toward the second end surface 597 of the carriage 584. The projections on the engagement surface 596 of the rod 583 also act on the row of aligned aerosol-generating granules 1 in the first storage zone 586, however, since the first end surface 595 of the carriage 584 is located further forward than the second end surface 597 carriage 584, there is no space into which the aerosol-generating granules 1 can move. As a result, the interacting surface 596 of the rod 583 moves back into the first storage zone 586 while the aerosol-generating granules 1 remain in place, so that the interacting surface 596 of the rod 583 moves back behind the forwardmost aerosol-generating granule 1 in the first storage zone 586, which falls into the loading zone 589. Now, the second storage zone 587 contains four axially aligned aerosol-generating granules 1, the first storage zone 586 contains three axially aligned aerosol-generating granules 1, and the loading zone 589 contains one aerosol-generating granule 1 ready for dispensing.

In FIG. 10 is a plan cross-sectional view of a device 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Features and operating principle of the device 600 shown in FIG. 10 are the same as those in devices 100 and 300 shown in FIG. 3 and 7A, respectively, except that the device 600 has an integral first reservoir 642 and a delivery mechanism 660, respectively, for storing a plurality of aerosol-generating granules 1 and delivering the aerosol-generating granules 1 to the aerosolization chamber 616 of the device 600. The device 600 also has an integral second reservoir. 644 for storing used aerosol-generating granules 1b that have been ejected from the aerosolization chamber 616.

The first reservoir 642 is located within the housing 602 of the device 600 and extends longitudinally along one side of the device 600. The delivery mechanism 660 includes a slide 661 that slidably engages a longitudinal groove (not shown) formed in the housing 602 and extending along the length of the first reservoir. 642. The slide 661 has a push portion 663 that extends into the first reservoir 642 through said longitudinal groove and is configured to engage with the rearmost aerosol generating granule 1 stored in the first reservoir 642. The portion of the push portion 663 that extends into the first reservoir 642 is wider than said longitudinal groove for holding the pushing part 663 inside the first reservoir 642.

To insert the aerosol-generating granule 1 into the aerosolization chamber 616, the user manually pushes the slider 661 forward, i.e. towards the mouthpiece 614. The pushing portion 663 engages with the rearmost aerosol generating granule 1, and the pushing force is transmitted along the plurality of granules to the frontmost granule, i.e. granule closest to the aerosolization chamber 616. An opening 674 is provided in the side wall of the aerosolization chamber 616 adjacent to the first reservoir 642 through which the aerosol-generating granule 1 can be inserted into the aerosolization chamber 616. The opening 674 may be closed by an inwardly opening door 668 hinged to a side of the opening 674. The door 668 is resiliently biased toward its closed configuration by a spring (not shown). If the force applied by the user to the slide 661 is sufficient to overcome the elastic force of the spring closing the door 668, then the forwardmost aerosol generating granule 1 will be pushed into the aerosolization chamber 616. Once the granule 1 is inserted into the aerosolization chamber 616, the door 668 is closed. behind it under the action of a spring to prevent the aerosol from leaving the chamber 616 for aerosolization. The front end wall of the first reservoir 642 is inclined to guide the granule 1 into the aerosolization chamber 616.

After heating, the used pellet 1b located in the aerosolization chamber 616 remains in the aerosolization chamber until the user is ready to insert the next pellet 1. At this point, the user repeats the above-described process of inserting pellet 1. The action of inserting a new pellet into the chamber The aerosolization chamber 616 causes the spent granule to be forced out of the aerosolization chamber 616 through an opening 672 that is provided in the side wall of the aerosolization chamber 616 opposite the opening 674. The opening 672 is closed by an outwardly opening door 666 hinged to the side of the opening 672. The door 666 is also resiliently biased toward its closed configuration by a spring (not shown). Once the granule is removed from the aerosolization chamber 616, the door 666 is closed behind it under the action of a spring to prevent the aerosol from escaping from the aerosolization chamber 616. The ejected granules 1b are stored in a second reservoir 644, which is also located within the housing 602 of the device 600 and extends longitudinally along the side of the device 600 opposite the first reservoir 642. A closable opening (not shown) is provided in the second reservoir 644 to allow the user to emptying the second container after it has been filled with used granules 1b.

Claims (31)

1. An aerosol generating system containing: an aerosol-generating article containing one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate, in turn containing an amount of an aerosol-forming substrate sufficient to generate an amount of aerosol for only one puff; an air flow passage located between the air inlet and the air outlet; an aerosolization chamber disposed along the air flow path such that the air flow path extends through at least a portion of the aerosolization chamber; And a flow regulator configured to selectively control the flow of air through the air flow passage, the flow regulator having an open configuration that allows air to flow into and out of the aerosolization chamber, and a closed configuration that substantially prevents air from flowing into aerosolization chamber and outflow from it; wherein the aerosolization chamber is configured to be open to receive only one aerosol-generating article at a time; the aerosolization chamber is configured to be closed to hold the aerosol-generating article; the aerosol generating system further comprises a heating element configured to heat the aerosolization chamber when the aerosol generating article is placed within the aerosolization chamber; and wherein the aerosol generating system is configured to heat the aerosolization chamber containing the aerosol generating article only when the flow regulator is in a closed configuration. 2. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the metered dose of the aerosol-forming substrate contains from 2 to 30 mg of tobacco, more particularly from 3 to 20 mg of tobacco, more particularly from 3 to 9 mg of tobacco, and even more particularly from 4 to 8 mg mg tobacco. 3. The aerosol-generating system of claim 1, wherein the metered dose of the aerosol-forming substrate contains 100 μg of nicotine, a nicotine derivative, or a nicotine analogue. 4. Aerosol generating system according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, wherein the metered dose of the aerosol-forming substrate further contains from 300 to 1250 μg of an aerosol-forming agent, in particular from 675 to 875 μg of an aerosol-forming agent. 5. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims. 1-4, wherein the aerosolization chamber is sized to accommodate only one aerosol-generating article. 6. Aerosol generating system according to any one of paragraphs. 1-5, wherein the cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the aerosolization chamber, thereby allowing air to flow around the aerosol-generating article and through the aerosolization chamber. 7. The aerosol-generating system according to claim 6, in which the cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating product is from 60 to 90% of the cross-sectional area of the aerosolization chamber. 8. An aerosol generating system according to any one of paragraphs. 1-7, wherein the aerosolization chamber includes an opening configured to load an aerosol-generating article into the aerosolization chamber, the system further comprising a lid for closing said opening during heating of the aerosol-generating article. 9. Aerosol generating system according to any one of paragraphs. 1-8, further comprising a delivery mechanism for delivering the aerosol generating article to the aerosolization chamber. 10. Aerosol generating system according to any one of paragraphs. 1-9, further comprising a barrier to prevent the aerosol-generating article from exiting the aerosolization chamber through the air flow passage. 11. The aerosol generating system of claim 10, wherein the obstruction includes reducing the cross-sectional area of the air flow channel at the point of connection of the aerosolization chamber with the rest of the air flow channel. 12. The aerosol-generating system of claim 10, wherein the barrier comprises a mesh or plate having at least one through-hole therein to prevent the aerosol-generating article from exiting the aerosolization chamber through the air flow channel while providing the same as before , allowing air to flow through the air flow channel, said mesh or plate being disposed across at least a portion of the air flow channel. 13. The aerosol generating system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a storage unit for storing a plurality of disposable aerosol generating articles. 14. A method of generating an aerosol that generates an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article containing one metered dose of an aerosol-forming substrate containing an amount of aerosol-forming substrate sufficient to generate an amount of aerosol for only one puff, the method comprising the steps of: providing a passage for air flow between the air inlet and the air outlet; providing an aerosolization chamber located along the air flow channel such that the air flow channel extends through at least a portion of the aerosolization chamber; open the aerosolization chamber; placing one aerosol-generating product in the aerosolization chamber; closing the aerosolization chamber to contain the aerosol-generating article; closing the air flow passage to substantially prevent air from flowing into and out of the aerosolization chamber; heating the aerosolization chamber containing the aerosol-generating article so that aerosolization of the aerosol-forming substrate occurs while the air flow channel is closed; and opening the air flow channel so that the user can take puffs of the generated aerosol through the air outlet. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising raising the temperature inside the aerosolization chamber to a certain temperature before placing the aerosol generating article in the aerosolization chamber.

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