US20220304380A1

US20220304380A1 - Aerosol provision device

Info

Publication number: US20220304380A1
Application number: US17/596,298
Authority: US
Inventors: Robert John Whiffen; Walid Abi Aoun; Jeremy Campbell; Barry Dimmick; William England; Conor John MCGRATH; Barnaby OAKLEY; Michael Thomas; Luke WARREN; Jack QUARMBY; Charles LEONI
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2019-06-10
Filing date: 2019-06-10
Publication date: 2022-09-29
Also published as: CA3142627A1; JP2022163114A; EP3979856A1; KR20220006115A; JP2022535495A; WO2020248104A1; JP2023100606A; WO2020249492A1; JP7250988B2; JP7231138B2

Abstract

An aerosol provision device includes a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing through which to receive aerosol generating material and delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing. A chamber is positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material. At least one heater is arranged within the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol. An absorbent material for absorbing liquid is provided.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No. PCT/EP2020/065737, filed Jun. 5, 2020, which claims priority from CN PCT Patent Application No. PCT/CN2019/090590, filed Jun. 10, 2019, each of which is hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol provision device and an absorbent member for an aerosol provision device.

BACKGROUND

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, the material. The material may be for example tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing, through which to receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material; at least one heater arranged within the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and an absorbent material for absorbing liquid; wherein, in use, the aerosol is drawn along a flow path through the chamber towards the first opening and the absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream of the part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material.
According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosol provision device, the absorbent member comprising an absorbent material supported by a substrate, wherein the absorbent member is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber of the aerosol provision device adjacent aerosol generating material.
According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing, through which to receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive aerosol generating material; at least one heater arranged within the housing, configured to heat the aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and a hydrophobic material arranged within the housing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device; wherein, in use, the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening.
According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing, through which to receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material; at least one heater arranged within the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and a removable cover configured to receive liquid from the chamber, the removable cover being attachable to the aerosol provision device in a position in which the second opening is blocked by the cover.
Further features and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a front view of an example of an aerosol provision device.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the aerosol provision device of FIG. 1 with an outer cover removed.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of the aerosol provision device of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of a heating assembly within an aerosol provision device.

FIG. 5B shows a close-up view of a portion of the heating assembly of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A shows a perspective view of the bottom end of the aerosol provision device with a door providing access to a second opening.

FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of the bottom end of the aerosol provision device with the door omitted.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device with certain components of the heating assembly omitted.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent member arranged within a chamber of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the absorbent member of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a second absorbent member arranged within a recess of a door of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the absorbent member of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a third absorbent member.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a fourth absorbent member.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer according to an example.

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of a hydrophobic layer arranged within a recess of a closed door of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic representation of a hydrophobic layer arranged within a recess of an open door of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an absorbent member arranged on a hydrophobic layer according to an example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating material” includes materials that provide volatilized components upon heating, typically in the form of an aerosol. Aerosol generating material includes any tobacco-containing material and may, for example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol generating material also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol generating material may for example be in the form of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax or the like. Aerosol generating material may for example also be a combination or a blend of materials. Aerosol generating material may also be known as “smokable material”.
Apparatus is known that heats aerosol generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol generating material, typically to form an aerosol which can be inhaled, without burning or combusting the aerosol generating material. Such apparatus is sometimes described as an “aerosol generating device”, an “aerosol provision device”, a “heat-not-burn device”, a “tobacco heating product device” or a “tobacco heating device” or similar. Similarly, there are also so-called e-cigarette devices, which typically vaporize an aerosol generating material in the form of a liquid, which may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of or be provided as part of a rod, cartridge or cassette or the like which can be inserted into the apparatus. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol generating material may be provided as a “permanent” part of the apparatus.
An aerosol provision device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An “article” in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol provision device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size that is configured to be placed within a heating chamber of the device which is sized to receive the article.
Articles, for instance those in the shape of rods, are often named according to the product length: “regular” (typically in the range 68-75 mm, e.g. from about 68 mm to about 72 mm), “short” or “mini” (68 mm or less), “king size” (typically in the range 75-91 mm, e.g. from about 79 mm to about 88 mm), “long” or “super-king” (typically in the range 91-105 mm, e.g. from about 94 mm to about 101 mm) and “ultra-long” (typically in the range from about 110 mm to about 121 mm).
They are also named according to the product circumference: “regular” (about 23-25 mm), “wide” (greater than 25 mm), “slim” (about 22-23 mm), “demi-slim” (about 19-22 mm), “super-slim” (about 16-19 mm), and “micro-slim” (less than about 16 mm).
Accordingly, an article in a king-size, super-slim format will, for example, have a length of about 83 mm and a circumference of about 17 mm.
Each format may be produced with mouthpieces of different lengths. The mouthpiece length will typically be from about 10 mm to 50 mm. A tipping paper connects the mouthpiece to the aerosol generating material and will usually have a greater length than the mouthpiece, for example from 3 to 10 mm longer, such that the tipping paper covers the mouthpiece and overlaps the aerosol generating material, for instance in the form of a rod of substrate material, to connect the mouthpiece to the rod.
Articles and their aerosol generating materials and mouthpieces described herein can be made in, but are not limited to, any of the above formats.
A first aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol provision device comprising an absorbent material for absorbing liquid, such as liquid residue. It has been found that when an article comprising aerosol generating material is heated within a chamber of the device, aerosol can cool and condense inside the device. For example, aerosol can condense on inner surfaces of the chamber. This condensate or liquid can run down the inside of the chamber and collect at the bottom of the device. In some examples, the bottom of the device comprises a door or cover, also known as a cleanout door, which allows a user to access the chamber for cleaning. The liquid may leak out of the cover when it is opened. In other examples, the cover (or the bottom of the device) may comprise one or more air inlets. The liquid may leak out of the air inlets during use or when the device is being stored. Furthermore, the liquid may leak out of air gaps around the outside of the cover. It is desirable to reduce the leakage of any liquid out of the device.
In some examples, leakage is reduced by absorbing liquid before it can leak out of the device. Accordingly, one or more absorbing/absorbent members/materials may be arranged within the device to absorb any liquid that forms or gathers within the chamber. Once absorbed by the absorbent material, the liquid may then evaporate during storage periods or be substantially retained within the absorbent material. The absorbent material may be removable from the device, so that it can be cleaned and replaced within the device; emptied and replaced within the device; emptied, cleaned and replaced within the device; or disposed of and replaced with a new absorbent material.
An example aerosol provision device comprises a housing, where the housing/device delimits a first opening at a first end through which to receive aerosol generating material. The housing/device further delimits a second opening at a second end of the housing/device. The second opening may allow a user to access the device for cleaning. The housing may be at least partially defined by an outer cover and one or more end members, for example. The first opening may be arranged at a mouth end of the device. The second opening may be arranged at a distal end of the device. The second end may be opposed from the first end.
A chamber may be positioned between the second opening and the first opening. The chamber may be defined by one or more components. For example, the chamber may be at least partially defined by a susceptor or other heating component. The chamber may additionally or alternatively be at least partially defined by a hollow member, which may also be known as a cleanout tube or a support. The hollow member may support the susceptor. At least part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material. For example, the susceptor may receive the aerosol generating material. The chamber may define a flow path or through hole between the first and second openings.
As mentioned, the device comprises an absorbent material for absorbing liquid. The absorbent material can be arranged closer to the second opening than it is to the first opening and/or at least partially positioned upstream in the flow path of the part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material. The aerosol is generated by heating the aerosol generating material and is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening as a user inhales on the device. Accordingly, the absorbent material is arranged upstream of the aerosol flow path. The absorbent material is therefore arranged close to the distal end of the device and absorbs liquid which flows towards the distal end of the device. Phrased differently, the chamber may define a first section to receive the aerosol generating material. The first section may be a heating section, for example. The absorbent material may be arranged in the device between the first section and the second opening or the cover. The distal end of the device may be the bottom end of the device which is furthest from a user's mouth in use, for example. Liquid may flow towards the distal end of the device due to gravity. Condensation may form towards the distal end of the device because this region is cooler than the mouth end of the device. When the device is in use (i.e. during a heating session), the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening.
The device comprises at least one heater arranged within the housing, where the heater is configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the housing/chamber to generate an aerosol. The heater may be known as a heater/heating assembly. The heater may be an inductive heater or a resistive heater. In some examples, the heater may comprise one or more inductor coils. Each inductor coil may be arranged to generate a varying magnetic field, which penetrates a susceptor. As will be discussed in more detail herein, a susceptor is an electrically conducting object, which is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. An article comprising aerosol generating material can be received within the susceptor, or be arranged near to, or in contact with the susceptor. Once heated, the susceptor transfers heat to the aerosol generating material, which releases aerosol. The heater may comprise the susceptor.
The device may comprise a cover or door that is movable between a first position in which the second opening is blocked, covered or closed by the cover, and a second position in which the second opening is open, not covered or not blocked). The second opening is “open” as long as access to the second opening is possible, for example the second opening may still be partially covered by the cover. In some examples in the second position access to the opening is substantially unobstructed by the cover. A user may open the cover to clean the device or to replace the absorbent material.
The chamber may have a first section to receive the aerosol generating material and a second section to receive the absorbent material. Thus, the absorbent material may be arranged at least partially within the chamber.
The cover may comprise a recess, and the absorbent material may be arranged at least partially in the recess. The recess may also stop liquid from leaking out of the device even if the absorbent material is saturated. The recess within the cover can allow the absorbent material to be more easily removed and inspected by a user. For example, the cover can be opened, and a user can check whether the absorbent material needs to be cleaned or replaced without needing to touch the absorbent material or remove it from the chamber. In addition, by arranging the absorbent material in the cover, the liquid is collected further away from the heater, which may keep the inside of the device/chamber cleaner and provide more opportunity for any liquid to evaporate before it reaches the absorbent material.
In some examples, the cover is detachable from the device. This can allow the user to more easily dispose of the absorbent material, and/or to pour any excess liquid out of the recess. The cover may be fully detachable from the device.
In one example, the cover delimits one or more apertures for air to pass through, and the apertures may be arranged outside of the recessed portion of the cover. Thus, even when the absorbent material is saturated, the liquid is substantially prevented from leaking out of the cover. The one or more apertures may be known as air inlets.
In use, the absorbent material may be at least partially positioned between the aerosol generating material and the cover. That is, the absorbent material and aerosol generating material may be arranged within the device at the same time. For example, the aerosol generating material may be arranged within a first section of the chamber and the absorbent material may be arranged in a second section of the chamber, or may be arranged in the recess of the cover. This allows the liquid to be absorbed when the device is being used (i.e. during a heating session).
The absorbent material may comprise foam, such as Polyurethane foam and High Density Polyurethane foam, sponge, paper or cellulose acetate. These materials are lightweight, absorbent and relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
The absorbent material may comprise a filamentary tow material, also referred to as fibrous material, which can comprise cellulose acetate fiber tow. The filamentary tow can also be formed using other materials used to form fibers, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(1-4 butanediol succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)(PBAT), starch based materials, cotton, aliphatic polyester materials and polysaccharide polymers or a combination thereof. The filamentary tow may be plasticized with a suitable plasticizer for the tow, such as triacetin where the material is cellulose acetate tow, or the tow may be non-plasticized. Unless otherwise described, the tow can have any suitable specification, such as fibers having a ‘Y’ shaped or other cross section such as ‘X’ shaped, filamentary denier values between 2 and 20 denier per filament, for example between 4 and 14 denier per filament and total denier values of 5,000 to 50,000, for example between 10,000 and 40,000.
The absorbent material may have an absorption capacity of at least 7 grams of water per gram of absorbent material. In other example the absorption capacity may be at least 10 grams per gram or at least 15 grams per gram. Absorption capacity measures the weight of liquid which can be held by the material without leakage. Higher capacities are preferred to ensure that the absorbent material can retain a sufficient volume of liquid that might be encountered in use without leaking. For example, a higher absorption capacity allows more use of the aerosol provision device before the absorbent material needs to be emptied or replaced. In some examples, a hydrophilic polyurethane foam which is commercially available from Freudenberg Performance Materials, headquartered in Weinheim, Germany under the trade name Freudenberg 1012 is used. This has an absorption capacity of 20 grams per gram.
Absorption capacity in this case is measured by pouring water on a test piece of absorbent material, such as foam piece with a flat upper surface. The test piece rests on a surface of a weighing scale and is not constrained, for example the test piece is free to expand in size. The water is added until water is observed to leak from the absorbent material or pool on top of the absorbent material. This indicates that the foam is saturated and the absorption capacity has been reached. The weight at this point is recorded and used to calculate the absorption capacity based on the known weight of the dry foam tested.
The absorbent material may be at least partially arranged in a section of the chamber. In some examples, the section of the chamber and at least a portion of the absorbent material may have corresponding cross-sectional shapes. This allows the absorbent material to be received within the chamber and provide a good fit, thereby reducing leakage. In a particular example the chamber and absorbent material have a circular cross-sectional shape.
The section of the chamber may be tubular, and at least a portion of the absorbent material may be tubular. This allows better airflow through absorbent material. In a particular example, the section of the chamber is a cylindrical tube and the at least a portion of the absorbent material is a cylindrical tube.
At least a portion of the absorbent material may be gas permeable. This allows air to be drawn through the absorbent material. A gas permeable absorbent material can allow gas to pass through it, for example in the direction towards the part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material. The action of drawing through a gas permeable absorbent material may also cause any liquid within it to be drawn towards the first end and away from the second end, reducing the likelihood of leakage and moving the liquid towards a hotter portion of the device in use where the liquid may be more likely to evaporate. The pressure drop created by drawing through the absorbent material is preferably less than about 200 Pa (20 mm H2O), more preferably less than about 100 Pa (10 mm H2O) or less than 50 Pa (5 mm H2O). This will depend on the dimensions and material properties of the absorbent material in the flow path and be tested by determining the difference in pressure drop across the whole aerosol provision device with and without the absorbent material in place.
The absorbent material may comprise a through-hole for air to pass through. The through-hole may therefore allow the absorbent material to be gas permeable with a reduced pressure drop. In a particular example, at least a portion of the absorbent material forms a tube which is received in a tubular section of the chamber.
The absorbent material may cover one or more air inlets. The absorbent material therefore reduces liquid from leaking out of the air inlets. As mentioned, the air inlets may be apertures formed in the cover.
An absorbent member may comprise the absorbent material supported by a substrate. The substrate may provide rigidity and may hold the absorbent material in place within the device. In one example, the substrate is hydrophobic and thus reduces the likelihood of liquid soaking through the whole absorbent member and then out of the device. In another example, the substrate is at least partially absorbent, but is more rigid than the absorbent material. The substrate may have a lower absorption capacity than the absorbent material, and so can absorb less liquid than the absorbing portion. The substrate may be gas-permeable.
In one example, the absorbent material forms at least part of a brush. Thus, the brush comprises the absorbent material. The brush therefore acts as an absorbent member to retain/hold the liquid. The brush may also hold solid particles, such as loose tobacco.
The brush may comprise absorbent material in the form of bristles or filaments. The brush may comprise absorbent material in the form of a mesh. Bristles, filaments and meshes are absorbent materials because they retain/hold liquid droplets within their structure. For example, liquid droplets can be trapped in the space between bristles/filaments. Similarly, a mesh may comprise a structure of intertwined or woven strands which retain/hold liquid droplets in the spaces between them.
The brush may comprise absorbent material supported by a substrate. The substrate may form a “backbone” to which the bristles, filaments or mesh are attached.
As in other examples, the absorbent member may be removed from the device and either disposed of, or cleaned and replaced back into the device.
The substrate may comprise at least one engagement feature to engage with the housing or cover. The cover or housing may have a corresponding engagement feature. The engagement feature(s) allows the absorbent member to be secured in place. In one example, the substrate comprises one or more protrusions to engage one or more corresponding channels/notches formed in the housing or cover. In another example, the substrate comprises one or more recesses to receive one or more corresponding protrusions formed in the housing or cover. In a specific example, the engagement feature of the substrate and the corresponding engagement feature of the cover or housing form a bayonet locking mechanism.
The chamber may comprise a barrier to separate the aerosol generating material from the absorbent material. The barrier may be known as a blocking member. The barrier may be defined by an end of a hollow tube/support which may form at least part of the chamber. For example, the hollow tube/support may have a narrower width than the rest of the chamber forming a step such that an end of the hollow tube abuts the aerosol generating material as it is received in the chamber and stops the aerosol generating material from contacting the absorbent material. The barrier may also be a separate part which is positioned or inserted in the chamber downstream of the absorbent material. When the barrier is a separate part, if may comprise one or more retention features to retain it in the chamber. The aerosol generating material may therefore be prevented from entering the hollow tube/support. The absorbent material may be arranged in the hollow tube or may be arranged in the recess of the cover. In any case, the barrier reduces the likelihood of the aerosol generating material from becoming wet by preventing contact between the aerosol generating material and the absorbent material.
The device may further comprise a hydrophobic material, such as a hydrophobic layer arranged within the housing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device. For example, the hydrophobic material may substantially prevent liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in the first position. The hydrophobic material provides a liquid impermeable layer which stops the liquid soaking through the absorbent material and out of the cover.
In a particular example, the absorbent material is arranged closer to the first opening than the hydrophobic material is (i.e. the absorbent material is arranged between the hydrophobic material and the aerosol generating material). The hydrophobic material may therefore stop any liquid which soaks through the absorbent material. In an alternative example the hydrophobic material is arranged closer to the first opening than the absorbent material is (i.e. the hydrophobic material is arranged between the absorbent material and the aerosol generating material). The hydrophobic material and absorbent material may be arranged in the recess of the cover. Alternatively, one of the hydrophobic material and the absorbent material may be arranged in the recess of the cover. In some embodiments the absorbent material is arranged at least partially within the chamber and the hydrophobic material is arranged within the recess of the cover.
In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic, or comprises a hydrophobic coating, to encourage the liquid to flow towards the absorbent material. This helps reduce the likelihood of residue setting inside the chamber.
In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is formed from polypropylene or polyethylene. A portion of the chamber may be coated in a layer of polypropylene or polyethylene in certain examples. Polypropylene and polyethylene are examples of hydrophobic materials.
In particular examples, at least a portion of the chamber surface is modified to increase the hydrophobicity of the surface. One example of modifying the surface is polishing the surface so that the surface is a polished surface.
In examples comprising absorbent material, at least a portion of the absorbent material may be configured to provide a visual indication to indicate that the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned. For example, the absorbent material may be ready to be replaced or cleaned when a predetermined volume of liquid has been absorbed by the absorbent material or when the absorbent material has been used for a predetermined length of time.
In one example, the visual indication is a change in color of the portion of the absorbent material. For example, the absorbent material may be configured to change from a first color to a second color, where the first and second colors are different (or are at least distinguishable from each other).
In some examples, the liquid has a third color, and the second color is different to the third color. Thus, the absorbent material may not turn the same color as the liquid.
The change in color may occur non-uniformly across the absorbent material. For example, an end of the absorbent material nearest the aerosol generating material may change color first, and an end furthest away from the aerosol generating material may change color at a later time. A user may clean or replace the absorbent material when the whole of the absorbent material has changed color. In other examples, the change in color may occur substantially uniformly across the absorbent material. A user may clean or replace the absorbent material when the shade of the color suggests doing so.
In one example, the change in color occurs due to a change in pH value. The absorbent material may therefore comprise a chemical indicator, such as a dye, to provide the visual indication. Thus, in one example, the absorbent material changes color as a result of the pH value of the liquid.
In another example, the change in color occurs due to a change in temperature. The absorbent material can therefore change color due to exposure to heat, such as heat of the liquid.
In one example, the absorbent material comprises a capsule comprising a colored indicator within a shell, wherein the shell is configured to break down and release the colored indicator to provide the visual indication. The shell can therefore break down over time. In one example, the shell is dissolvable and dissolves due to exposure to the liquid. The colored indicator, such as a dye, can then leak out of the capsule when the shell has dissolved. In one example, the shell dissolves due to the presence of water or glycerol within the liquid. Preferably the shell dissolves due to the presence of glycerol but not water to ensure that the shell does not break down outside of the device and/or when not in use due to moisture within the air. In another example, the shell breaks down due a chemical reaction with one or more chemicals within the liquid. In a further example, the shell breaks down due to an exposure to heat within the device. In a particular example, there are a plurality of capsules each comprising a colored indicator within a shell, where each shell is configured to break down at a different time. For example, a first capsule may release a first color chemical indicator after one heating session, and a second capsule may release a second chemical indicator after another heating session. Each capsule can have a different shell thickness such that the shells break down at different times.
In one example, a first portion of the absorbent material is configured to provide a visual indication to indicate that the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned. A second portion of the absorbent material may provide a different visual indication or may not provide a visual indication.
In some examples, the first portion may be configured to change from a first color to a second color, where the first and second colors are different (or are at least distinguishable from each other). The liquid may have a third color. and the second portion may be configured to change from a fourth color to the third color. Thus, in some examples, the first portion is configured to change to a color that is different to the color of the liquid and the second portion is only colored naturally by the liquid, and so does not change to the same color as the first portion.
In a particular example, the first portion is arranged at a first end of the absorbent material, and the second portion is arranged at a second end of the absorbent material, where the first end is an end furthest away from the aerosol generating material (i.e. at the distal end of the absorbent material) and the second end is an end closest to the aerosol generating material (i.e. at a proximal end). This may be useful because it shows that liquid has penetrated through the entire length of the absorbent material, and so indicates that the absorbent material is ready to be cleaned or replaced.
In some examples, the one or more chemical indicators or dyes are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For example, the dyes may be food acceptable and optionally, a food grade material. The chemical indicators may therefore be non-toxic and safe for ingestion. This is useful because the indicators may be heated and aerosolized so may be inhaled or ingested by a user.
In one example, the visual indication comprises the appearance of a particular pattern. For example, one or more markings or indicia may appear when the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned. In some examples the pattern changes from a first pattern to a second pattern when the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned. The appearance of a particular pattern may also comprise a change in color.
In some examples, the visual indication is visible from outside of the device, such as through a window or opening in the outer cover of the device. In other examples, the visual indication is visible on opening the cover.
According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosol provision device, the absorbent member comprising an absorbent material supported by a substrate, wherein the absorbent member is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber or door of the aerosol provision device adjacent aerosol generating material.
In one example, the absorbent material may be at least partially received in the chamber, and the substrate may be at least partially arranged within a recess of a cover of the aerosol provision device. In another example, the absorbent material and the substrate may both be at least partially arranged within a recess of a cover of the aerosol provision device. In another example, the absorbent material and the substrate may both be at least partially received in the chamber.
The absorbent material may comprise any of the features described in relation to the first aspect.
In one example, the absorbent material and substrate both comprise a through-hole for air to pass through the absorbent member. The substrate may be hydrophobic.
According to the third aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising a hydrophobic material, such as a hydrophobic layer, arranged within the housing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device. Accordingly, instead of, or in addition to an absorbent material, the device has a hydrophobic material to prevent liquid from leaking out of the device. A hydrophobic material provides a liquid impermeable layer which substantially prevents the liquid from leaking out of the device. The hydrophobic material therefore forms a liquid barrier within the device. The hydrophobic material may be a membrane, for example. In some examples, the device may comprise a cover or door, and the hydrophobic material may be configured to substantially prevent liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in the first/closed position. Preventing the liquid from leaking may comprise reducing or eliminating liquid leakage.
The hydrophobic material may be arranged closer to the second opening than it is to the first opening. The aerosol is generated by heating the aerosol generating material and is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening as a user inhales on the device. Accordingly, the hydrophobic material may be arranged upstream of the aerosol flow path. The hydrophobic material is therefore arranged close to the distal end of the device and collects liquid which flows towards the distal end of the device. Phrased differently, the chamber may define a first section to receive the aerosol generating material. The first section may be a heating section, for example. The hydrophobic material may be arranged in the device between the first section and the second opening or the cover.
The hydrophobic material may act as a barrier upon which the liquid can pool. When a user opens the cover, the liquid may be poured off the hydrophobic material.
The chamber may have a first section to receive the aerosol generating material and a second section to receive the hydrophobic material. Thus, the hydrophobic material may be arranged at least partially within the chamber.
At least part of the hydrophobic material may be positioned between the cover and the second end/opening. That is, at least part of the hydrophobic material may not be positioned within the chamber. The hydrophobic material may be at least partially arranged in an inner recess of the cover or may be arranged on an outer surface of the cover, for example.
As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess, and the hydrophobic material may be arranged at least partially in the recess. The recess within the cover can allow the liquid to be poured off the hydrophobic material more easily. For example, the cover can be opened and the liquid (which may have pooled on top of the hydrophobic material) can be poured out of the device. In addition, by arranging the hydrophobic material in the cover, the liquid is collected further away from the heater, which may keep the inside of the device/chamber cleaner.
In use, the hydrophobic material may be at least partially positioned between the aerosol generating material and the cover. That is, the hydrophobic material and aerosol generating material may be arranged within the device at the same time. For example, the aerosol generating material may be arranged within a first section of the chamber and the hydrophobic material may be arranged in a second section of the chamber, or may be arranged in the recess of the cover. This means the liquid is substantially prevented from leaking when the device is being used (i.e. during a heating session).
The cover may delimit one or more apertures for air to pass through, and the hydrophobic material may be arranged within the housing to prevent liquid from passing through the one or more apertures. The apertures may be known as air inlets. For example, the hydrophobic material may be gas permeable and is arranged to cover the one or more apertures. The one or more apertures may be formed in the cover, for example.
As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess, and the recess may comprise a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base. The hydrophobic material may have a first surface area and the base may have a second surface area, where the first surface area is larger than the second surface area. Thus, when the hydrophobic material is received in the recess, the hydrophobic material may at least partially extend up the sidewall(s) to form a receptacle or reservoir for collecting liquid. In one example, the hydrophobic material comprises an adhesive layer for adhering the hydrophobic material to the base. This stops the hydrophobic material from coming loose, should the device be inverted.
The hydrophobic material may comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET). PET is lightweight, flexible, cheap, and has high melting point (to avoid the hydrophobic material from deforming during a heating session).
The chamber may comprise a barrier to separate the aerosol generating material from the hydrophobic material. The barrier may be as discussed above in combination with the absorbent material.
The chamber may define a first section to receive the aerosol generating material, and a second section to receive the hydrophobic material, and the first section is arranged closer to first opening than the second section.
In some examples, the device further comprises an absorbing/absorbent member/material. In a particular example, the absorbent material is arranged closer to the first opening than the hydrophobic material is (i.e. the absorbent material is arranged between the hydrophobic material and the aerosol generating material). The hydrophobic material may therefore stop any liquid which soaks through the absorbent material. In an alternative example the hydrophobic material is arranged closer to the first opening than the absorbent material is (i.e. the hydrophobic material is arranged between the absorbent material and the aerosol generating material). The hydrophobic material and absorbent material may be arranged in the recess of the cover. Alternatively, one of the hydrophobic material and the absorbent material may be arranged in the recess of the cover. In some embodiments the absorbent material is arranged at least partially within the chamber and the hydrophobic material is arranged within the recess of the cover. The absorbent material may comprise any of the features described in relation to the first or second aspects.
In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic or comprises a hydrophobic coating to encourage the liquid to flow towards the hydrophobic material.
A fourth aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol provision device comprising a removable/detachable cover/door. The cover is therefore configured to receive liquid from the chamber and can be detached to allow the collected liquid to be disposed of A detachable cover can allow the user to more easily dispose of the liquid and/or absorbent/hydrophobic material (if present). The detachable nature of the cover can also allow the cover to be cleaned, which is particularly useful if the device itself is not water resistant.
In some examples, the cover comprises a liquid reservoir to receive the liquid. In some examples, the liquid reservoir retains the liquid. The cover may be adapted to: (i) allow liquid to flow into the reservoir, and (ii) substantially restrict liquid from flowing out of the reservoir. For example, the cover may comprise a one-way valve to stop liquid from leaking out of the reservoir. Alternatively, the reservoir may have an opening shaped to allow ingress of liquid, but which restricts egress of liquid.
In some examples, the cover comprises absorbent material. For example, the cover may comprise a recess and the absorbent material is arranged at least partially in the recess. In some examples, the absorbent material is removably adhered to the cover. A user can remove the absorbent material, and either clean or dispose of it, before adhering clean absorbent material back onto the cover. In further examples, the absorbent material is not removable/detachable from the cover. The door can be detached so that the absorbent material can be cleaned.
In some examples, the cover comprises hydrophobic material. For example, the cover may comprise a recess and the hydrophobic material is arranged at least partially in the recess. In some examples, the hydrophobic material is removably adhered to the cover. A user can remove the hydrophobic material, and either clean or dispose of it, before adhering clean hydrophobic material back onto the cover.
In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic or comprises a hydrophobic coating to encourage the liquid to flow towards the cover.
The device of the fourth aspect may comprise any of the features described in relation to the first, second or third aspects.
According to another aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing through which to receive aerosol generating material and delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing. The device further comprises a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material. The device further comprises at least one heater arranged within the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol. The device further comprises a brush configured to receive and retain residue from the chamber. In use, the aerosol is drawn along a flow path through the chamber towards the first opening and the brush is at least partially positioned upstream of the part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material.
In some examples, the brush receives and retains liquid residue from the chamber. In other examples, the brush receives and retains solid residue from the chamber. The brush can be removed from the device and be cleaned or disposed of. The brush may be positioned fully in the chamber, or may be partially positioned in the chamber. In some examples, the cover/door comprises a recess and the brush is arranged at least partially in the recess.
In one example, the brush comprises absorbent material. The brush therefore acts as an absorbent member and can absorb/hold liquid.
According to another aspect of the disclosure, a system comprises an aerosol generating device as discussed above and aerosol generating material contained or containable with the chamber. In some examples the aerosol generating material comprises part of an aerosol generating article.
FIG. 1 shows an example of an aerosol provision device 100 for generating aerosol from an aerosol generating medium/material. In broad outline, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 110 comprising the aerosol generating medium, to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium which is inhaled by a user of the device 100. The device is a tobacco heating device, also known as a heat-not-burn device.
The device 100 comprises a housing 102 (defined at least partially by an outer cover) which surrounds and houses various components of the device 100. The device 100 or housing 102 has a first opening 104 in one end, through which the article 110 may be inserted for heating by a heating assembly. In use, the article 110 may be fully or partially inserted into a heating chamber where it may be heated by one or more components of the heater/heater assembly.
The device 100 of this example comprises a first end member 106 which comprises a lid 108 which is moveable relative to the first end member 106 to close the first opening 104 when no article 110 is in place. In FIG. 1, the lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, however the lid 108 may move into a closed configuration. For example, a user may cause the lid 108 to slide in the direction of arrow “A”.
The device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 112, such as a button or switch, which operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the switch 112.
The device 100 may also comprise an electrical component, such as a socket/port 114, which can receive a cable to charge a battery of the device 100. For example, the socket 114 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port.
FIG. 2 depicts the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the outer cover 102 removed and without an article 110 present. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.
As shown in FIG. 2, the first end member 106 is arranged at one end of the device 100 and a second end member 116 is arranged at an opposite end of the device 100. The first and second end members 106, 116 together at least partially define end surfaces of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 at least partially defines a bottom surface of the device 100. In this example, the lid 108 also defines a portion of a top surface of the device 100. First and second end members 106, 116 are part of the device housing, such that the housing defines the first opening 104.
The end of the device 100 closest to the first opening 104 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of the device 100 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a user inserts an article 110 into the first opening 104, operates the user control 112 to begin heating the aerosol generating material and draws on the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along a flow path towards the proximal end of the device 100.
The other end of the device furthest away from the first opening 104 may be known as the distal end of the device 100 because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of the device 100.
The device 100 further comprises a power source 118. The power source 118 may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. The battery is electrically coupled to the heating assembly to supply electrical power when required and under control of a controller (not shown) to heat the aerosol generating material. In this example, the battery is connected to a central support 120 which holds the battery 118 in place.
The device further comprises at least one electronics module 122. The electronics module 122 may comprise, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB 122 may also comprise one or more electrical tracks to electrically connect together various electronic components of the device 100. For example, the battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100. The socket 114 may also be electrically coupled to the battery via the electrical tracks.
In the example device 100, the heating assembly is an inductive heating assembly and comprises various components to heat the aerosol generating material of the article 110 via an inductive heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conducting object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may comprise an inductive element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying electric current, such as an alternating electric current, through the inductive element. The varying electric current in the inductive element produces a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor suitably positioned with respect to the inductive element and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and hence the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Joule heating. In cases where the susceptor comprises ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e. by the varying orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the varying magnetic field. In inductive heating, as compared to heating by conduction for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating. Further, there need not be any physical contact between the inductive heater and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced freedom in construction and application.
The induction heating assembly of the example device 100 comprises a susceptor arrangement 132 (herein referred to as “a susceptor”), a first inductor coil 124 and a second inductor coil 126. The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made from an electrically conducting material. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made from a multi-strand wire, such as a litz wire/cable which is wound in a generally helical fashion to provide the inductor coils 124, 126. Litz wire comprises a plurality of wire strands which are individually insulated and are twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wires are designed to reduce the skin effect losses in a conductor. In the example device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made from copper Litz wire which has a rectangular cross section. In other examples the Litz wire can have other shape cross sections.
The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first varying magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132 and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second varying magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100. Ends 130 of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 can be connected to the PCB 122.
It will be appreciated that the first and second inductor coils 124, 126, in some examples, may have at least one characteristic different from each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have at least one characteristic different from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different value of inductance than the second inductor coil 126. In FIG. 2, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are of different lengths such that the first inductor coil 124 is wound over a smaller section of the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. Thus, the first inductor coil 124 may comprise a different number of turns than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 may be made from a different material to the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may be substantially identical.
The susceptor 132 of this example is hollow and therefore defines at least part of a chamber within which aerosol generating material is received. For example, the article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example the susceptor 120 is tubular, with a circular cross section.
The susceptor 132, and the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may form at least part of the heater/heater assembly. The heated susceptor 132 therefore heats aerosol generating material received within the housing/device.
The device 100 of FIG. 2 further comprises an insulating member 128 which may be generally tubular and at least partially surround the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 may be constructed from any insulating material, such as plastic for example. In this particular example, the insulating member is constructed from polyether ether ketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 may help insulate the various components of the device 100 from the heat generated in the susceptor 132.
The insulating member 128 can also fully or partially support the first and second inductor coils 124, 126. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are positioned around the insulating member 128 and are in contact with a radially outward surface of the insulating member 128. In some examples the insulating member 128 does not abut the first and second inductor coils 124, 126. For example, a small gap may be present between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surface of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126.
In a specific example, the susceptor 132, the insulating member 128, and the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are coaxial around a central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132.
FIG. 3 shows a side view of device 100 in partial cross-section. The outer cover 102 is present in this example.
The device 100 further comprises a support 136 which engages one end of the susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in place. The support 136 is connected to the second end member 116. The support 136 may also be known as a hollow member, hollow tube, or cleanout tube.
The device may also comprise a second printed circuit board 138 associated within the control element 112.
The device 100 further comprises a cover, which in this example is a door 140, and a spring 142, arranged towards the distal end of the device 100. The spring 142 allows the door 140 to be opened, to provide access to a second opening formed in the housing. The second opening may be defined by an end of the support 136, for example. Through the second opening, a user may access the chamber to clean the susceptor 132 and/or the support 136. The device 100 or housing 102 therefore defines the second opening at the second end of the device/housing. Similarly, the device 100 or housing 102 defines the first opening 104 at the first end of the device/housing. The first and second ends may be opposite to each other. A chamber or channel is formed between the door 140 and the first opening 104. For example, the chamber/channel may be at least partially defined by the support 136 and the susceptor 132. The door 140 can be moved between two positions. In a first position, the second opening is covered by the door 140, and in a second position the second opening is not covered by the door 140.
The device 100 further comprises an expansion chamber 144 which extends away from a proximal end of the susceptor 132 towards the first opening 104 of the device. Located at least partially within the expansion chamber 144 is a retention clip 146 to abut and hold the article 110 when received within the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 is connected to the end member 106. The expansion chamber 144 may also define at least part of the chamber/channel.
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the device 100 of FIG. 1, with the outer cover 102 omitted.
FIG. 5A depicts a cross section of a portion of the device 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5B depicts a close-up of a region of FIG. 5A. FIGS. 5A and 5B show the article 110 received within the susceptor 132, where the article 110 is dimensioned so that the outer surface of the article 110 abuts the inner surface of the susceptor 132. The article 110 of this example comprises aerosol generating material 110 a. The aerosol generating material 110 a is positioned within the susceptor 132. The article 110 may also comprise other components such as a filter, wrapping materials and/or a cooling structure.
FIG. 5B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 150, measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 150 is about 3 mm to 4 mm, about 3 mm to 3.5 mm, or about 3.25 mm.
FIG. 5B further shows that the outer surface of the insulating member 128 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 152, measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 152 is about 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0 mm, such that the inductor coils 124, 126 abut and touch the insulating member 128.
In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of about 0.025 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.05 mm.
In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of about 40 mm to 60 mm, about 40 mm to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.
In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of about 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.
FIG. 6A depicts the distal/bottom end of the device 100. In FIG. 6A, the door 140 is arranged in first position in which the second opening to the chamber is closed. One or more apertures 160 form air inlets within the door. Air can be drawn into the chamber and through the device 100 towards the first opening 104 via the apertures 160.
FIG. 6B depicts the distal/bottom end of the device 100 with the door 140 omitted. The spring 142 and bottom end of the support 136 are seen. The end of the support 136 and/or the second end member 116 define the second opening 162. The support 136 and susceptor 132 can be cleaned via the second opening 162. For example, a cleaning tool may be introduced into the chamber.
FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device with certain components of the heating assembly omitted. For example, the second inductor coil 126 is omitted. The susceptor 132 and the support 136 at least partially define a chamber through which air and aerosol can flow. The susceptor 132 may form a first section of the chamber, which receives the aerosol generating material. The support 136 supports one end of the susceptor 132 and may form a second section of the chamber.
It has been found that when an article comprising aerosol generating material is heated within the chamber of the device 100, aerosol can cool and condense inside the device. For example, aerosol can condense on inner surfaces of the support 136 which is cooler than the susceptor. Condensation may also occur on the susceptor 132 as it cools after use or as different portions of the susceptor are heated to different temperatures. This condensate or liquid can run down the inside of the chamber and collect at the bottom of the device. For example, the liquid may collect in the door 140. The liquid may then leak out of the apertures 160 formed in the door 140 or may leak around the perimeter of the door. Furthermore, the liquid may leak out when the door 140 is opened.
It may be useful to absorb this liquid before it can leak out of the device. Accordingly, in some examples, one or more absorbent material may be arranged within the device 100 to absorb any liquid that forms or gathers within the chamber. The absorbent material may be removable from the device, so that it can either be cleaned and replaced within the device, or it may be disposed of and replaced with a new absorbent material. FIGS. 8-13 and 17 depict various absorbent members and absorbent materials of different shapes and constructions which may be used within the device to prevent liquid from leaking out of the device 100.
In another example, it may be useful to collect the liquid to prevent the liquid from leaking out of the device 100 past the door 140. Accordingly, in some examples, hydrophobic material in the form of one or more hydrophobic layers or membranes may be arranged within the device 100 to prevent liquid from leaking. A hydrophobic layer is a layer which is impermeable to liquid. The liquid can then collect on the hydrophobic layer. FIGS. 14-17 depict a hydrophobic layer which may be used to prevent liquid from leaking out of the device 100.
FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent member 164 comprising absorbent material and arranged within the chamber of the aerosol provision device. In particular, the absorbent member 164 is arranged within the support 136 and is positioned towards the end of the support 136 adjacent the second opening. Accordingly, the absorbent member 164 is arranged closer to the second opening 162 than it is to the first opening 104. When aerosol generating material is received in the chamber (such as in the susceptor 132), and the door 140 is in the first position, the absorbent member 164 is arranged within the chamber between the door 140 and the aerosol generating material.
In this example, the absorbent member 164 is made from cellulose acetate, and can therefore absorb and hold liquid which comes into contact with the absorbent member 164. In other examples, the absorbent member 164 is made from other absorbent materials, such as paper or foam.
FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of the absorbent member 164. The absorbent member is tubular and is generally cylindrical with a length of between 5 mm and 20 mm, such as about 10 mm. The absorbent member 164 therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 8, the absorbent member 164 is arranged in a section of the chamber defined by the support 136. The support 136 is also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the absorbent member 164. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164 to provide a close fit, such as an interference fit, within the support and reduce leakage around the outer surfaces of the absorbent member. For example, the diameter of the absorbent member can be between 4 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 4.4 mm and 4.6 mm, with corresponding inner diameter of the support. This interference fit can also help hold the absorbent member 164 in place. The inner diameter of the support 136 may be slightly smaller than the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164 so that the absorbent member is in a compressed state when it is received in the chamber. This compressed state can ensure that the absorbent member 164 abuts the inner surface of the chamber at all positions around the absorbent member 164 to substantially prevent liquid from flowing around the absorbent member 164.
In the example of FIGS. 8 and 9, the absorbent member 164 arranged near to one or more of the apertures 160. The absorbent member 164 is therefore gas permeable to allow air to flow through the absorbent member 164. For example, air may be drawn through the apertures 160 and through the absorbent member 164 towards the aerosol generating material located further along the chamber. In this example, the absorbent member 164 is gas permeable, for example the absorbency may be provided by a material with voids that allow gas flow, such a foam material. In addition, a through hole 168 extends through the absorbent member to provide a flow path with reduced pressure drop. The absorbent member 164 may therefore be in the form of a hollow tube where the outer material of the absorbent member abuts the inner surface of the chamber to receive liquid as it flows down the inside of the inner surface. In this example, the material from which the absorbent member 164 is made is also gas permeable. Gas molecules can therefore flow through the material of the absorbent member 164 as well as through the through hole 168. The through hole 168 may help reduce the pressure drop through the chamber, so that the user need not draw on the device 100 with as much force. In some examples, the through hole 168 may be omitted.
FIG. 10 depicts a cross-sectional view of a second absorbent member 174 which comprises absorbent material and is arranged within a recess 170 of the door 140. Liquid may flow down the inside of the chamber and drip through the second opening 162 into the absorbent member 174. The absorbent member 174 therefore stops the liquid from leaking out of the device 100 (i.e. stops the liquid from leaking past the door 140).
As in the example of FIG. 8, the absorbent member 174 is arranged closer to the second opening 162 than it is to the first opening 104. When aerosol generating material is received in the chamber (such as in the susceptor 132), and the door 140 is in the first position, the absorbent member 164 is arranged between the door 140 and the aerosol generating material.
In some examples, the absorbent member 174 may extend out of the recess 170, such that is arranged in both the recess 170 and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.
In this example, the recess comprises a base 170 a and one or more sidewalls 170 b extending away from the base towards the second opening 162. The one or more apertures 160 are formed in the base of the recess 170 such that the absorbent member 174 covers the one or more apertures 160. In other examples the one or more apertures 160 may be formed in the door 140 but are not formed in the base of the recess 170.
In this example, the absorbent member 174 is made from foam, and can therefore absorb and hold liquid which comes into contact with the absorbent member 174. The absorbent member 174 may be made from other absorbent materials, such as paper or cellulose acetate.
In some examples, the door 140 is removable/detachable from the device. For example, the door 140 may comprise one or more fasteners (not shown) which allow the door 140 to be connected to the device, such as the second end member 116. A user may remove the door 140 to allow the absorbent member 174 to be more easily cleaned or replaced. The door may be completely detachable from the device.
FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the absorbent member 174. The absorbent member may be disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. The absorbent member is about 2.5 mm high and about 8 mm in diameter. The absorbent member 174 therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 10, the absorbent member 174 is arranged in the recess 170. The recess 170 is also disk-shaped and has a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the absorbent member 174. The inner diameter of the recess 170 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 to provide a close fit. For example, an interference fit can help hold the absorbent member 174 in place when the door is opened. The inner diameter of the recess 170 may be slightly smaller than the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 so that the absorbent member is in a compressed state when it is received in the chamber. This compressed state can ensure that the absorbent member 174 abuts the one or more sidewalls 170 b of the recess 170 at all positions around the absorbent member 174 to reduce the likelihood of liquid from flowing around the absorbent member 174.
In the example of FIGS. 10 and 11, the absorbent member 174 covers one or more of the apertures 160. The absorbent member 174 is therefore gas permeable to allow air to flow through the absorbent member 174. For example, air may be drawn through the apertures 160 and through the absorbent member 174 towards the aerosol generating material located in the chamber. In this example, the absorbent member 174 is gas permeable because it is made from material which is gas permeable. In some examples, the absorbent member 174 also comprises a through hole through which air can flow.
In other examples where an absorbent member is arranged in a recess of a door, it may be positioned so that it does not obstruct a fluid flow path. For example, rather than covering apertures in the door it could be positioned inside the apertures. It is still upstream of the fluid flow path, but the fluid flow path can bypass the absorbent member and any pressure drop associated with it.
FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of a third absorbent member 184 comprising an absorbent material 184 a supported by a substrate 184 b. The substrate 184 b in this example is more rigid than the absorbent material 184 a. In this example, the absorbent material 184 a is to be arranged in the chamber of the device 100. For example, the absorbent material 184 a can be received within the support 136. The substrate 184 b can be received in a recess formed in the door or may be received in a wider portion of the chamber. In a particular example, the substrate 184 b is received in the recess of the door and when the door is moved into the first/closed position, the absorbent material 184 a is received in the chamber. Accordingly, the absorbent member 184 may extend out of the recess, such that is arranged in both the recess and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.
The substrate of this example comprises one or more engagement features in the form of protrusions 182 to engage with one or more corresponding engagement features on the door or housing. For example, each of the protrusions 182 may be received in a channel/notch formed in the one or more sidewalls of the recess of the door. The one or more engagement features allow the absorbent member 184 to be secured in place so that the absorbent member 184 does not move around within the device or fall out of the device when the door 140 is opened.
In this example, the absorbent material 184 a is paper, and can therefore absorb and hold liquid which comes into contact with the absorbent member 184. The absorbent material 184 may be other absorbent materials, such as foam or cellulose acetate. The substrate 184 b may be made from plastic, such as PEEK, and the absorbing portion 184 a may be adhered to the substrate 184 b.
The absorbent material 184 a is tubular and is generally cylindrical. The absorbent material 184 a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The absorbent material 184 a can be arranged in a section of the chamber defined by the support 136. The support 136 is also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the absorbent material 184 a. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 186 of the absorbent material 184 a to provide a close fit and reduce leakage. This interference fit can also help hold the absorbent member 184 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagement features). The substrate 184 b is disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. The substrate 184 b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The substrate 184 b may be arranged a recess of the door 140, so the recess may also be disk-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the substrate 184 b. The inner diameter of the recess may be substantially the same as the outer diameter 188 of the substrate 184 b to provide a close fit (which may be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagement features).
The absorbent member 184 may be arranged to cover one or more of the apertures 160 in the door 140. The absorbent member 184 may therefore be gas permeable to allow air to flow through the absorbent member 184. In this example, the absorbent member 184 also has a through hole 180 extending through it. The through hole 180 extends through the absorbing portion 184 a and the substrate 184 b to provide a flow path through both the absorbent material 184 a and the substrate 184 b. In this example, the absorbent material is also gas permeable. The material from which the substrate 184 b is made may not be gas permeable.
FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of a fourth absorbent member 194 comprising an absorbent material supported by a substrate 194 b. The absorbent material comprises a first part 194 a and a second part 194 c. The first and second parts 194 a, 194 c may be different to each other. For example, they may have different dimensions or may comprise different materials or may comprise the same materials but with different absorbency properties.
The substrate 194 b in this example is more rigid than the absorbing portion.
In this example, the first part 194 a of absorbing portion is to be arranged in the chamber of the device 100. For example, the first part 194 a can be received within the support 136. The substrate 194 b can be received in a recess formed in the door 140. The second part 194 c of the absorbent material may be arranged between the chamber and the recess of the door 140. The second part 194 c can therefore absorb any liquid which has managed to escape the chamber. Accordingly, the absorbent member 194 may extend out of the recess, such that is arranged in both the recess and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.
The substrate of this example comprises one or more engagement features in the form of protrusions 192 to engage with one or more corresponding engagement features on the door or housing.
In this example, the first part 194 a is made from cellulose acetate and the second part 194 c is made from foam or paper. Other materials may be used instead. In some examples the first and second parts 194 a, 194 c are made from the same material. The substrate 194 b may be made from plastic, such as PEEK, and the absorbing portion may be adhered to the substrate 194 b.
The first part 194 a is tubular and is generally cylindrical. The first part 194 a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The first part 194 a can be arranged in a section of the chamber defined by the support 136. The support 136 may also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the first part 194 a. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 196 of the first part 194 a to provide a close fit and reduce leakage. An interference fit can also help hold the absorbent member 194 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent member 194 does not have any engagement features).
The second part 194 c is disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. The second part 194 c therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The second part 194 c may be arranged between the end of the support 136 and the recess of the door 140. In some examples, the cross-sectional shape of the second part 194 c may not need to correspond to that of any components of the device. In another example, the second part 194 c may be received in a wider bottom section of the chamber, such as a wider section of the support 136, and the cross-sectional shape of the second part 194 c may correspond to that of the section of the chamber/support which receives the second part 194 c.
The substrate 194 b is disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. The substrate 194 b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The substrate 194 b may be arranged a recess of the door 140, so the recess may also be disk-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the substrate 194 b. The inner diameter of the recess may be substantially the same as the outer diameter 198 of the substrate 194 b to provide a “snug” fit (which may be useful if the absorbent member 194 does not have any engagement features).
The absorbent member 194 may be arranged to cover one or more of the apertures 160 in the door 140. The absorbent member 194 may therefore be gas permeable to allow air to flow through the absorbent member 194. A through hole 190 extends through the absorbing portion and the substrate 194 b to provide a flow path through both the absorbing portion and the substrate 194 b. In this example, the material from which the absorbing portion is made is also gas permeable. In other examples, the material from which the substrate 194 b is made is not be gas permeable.
In the examples of FIGS. 8, 9, 12 and 13 discussed above, the absorbent member is at least partially tubular. In other examples, the absorbent member may be generally solid and cylindrical. In other words, the absorbent member may take the form of a cylindrical “plug”. The absorbent member in these examples is gas-permeable to provide a fluid flow path through the absorbent member. Dimensions may be similar to the FIG. 9 example: about 5 mm to 20 mm in length and about 4 mm to 5 mm in diameter. In one configuration the absorbent member may be a cylinder of 4.4 mm to 4.6 mm in diameter and about 10 mm in length.
When the absorbent member is solid, it will present a greater pressure drop in the fluid flow path due to the increased resistance to pass through the absorbent member. There is therefore a balance of pressure drop against effective absorbency, both in the composition of the material and on the overall dimensions. For example, a particular absorption capacity or internal structure may present less of a pressure drop but reduce fluid retention in the absorbent member. Likewise, a longer absorbent member will present a greater pressure drop but will have a greater volume to retain liquid before becoming saturated. It has been found that an absorbent member with a length of 5 to 15 mm, such as about 10 mm provides a good balance of these properties.
In either of FIG. 8 or 10, a hydrophobic layer may be arranged within the device to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the device past the door 140. For example, a hydrophobic layer may be used in place of the absorbent members 164, 174, 184, 194. In some examples, a hydrophobic layer is used as well as an absorbent member to further reduce the likelihood of leakage.
FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer 204 according to an example. A hydrophobic layer 204 is a liquid impermeable layer that can be arranged within the device. For example, the hydrophobic layer 204 can be arranged within the chamber or within a recess of the door. A hydrophobic layer 204 therefore forms a liquid barrier within the device. If the hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged in the chamber, liquid may be substantially prevented from passing through the second opening 162. If the hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged in a recess of the door 140, liquid may be substantially prevented from passing beyond the door 140, such as through one or more apertures formed in the door.
FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of part of the device 100 with a hydrophobic layer 204 arranged within the recess 170 of the door 140. At least part of the hydrophobic layer 204 is therefore positioned between the door 140 and the second end 162. The door 140 is arranged in a first position, such that the second opening 162 is closed/covered by the door 140.
Liquid 202 may flow down the inside of the chamber (such as down the inside of the support 136) and drip through the second opening 162 onto the hydrophobic layer 204. The hydrophobic layer 204 therefore stops the liquid 202 from leaking out of the device 100 (i.e. stops the liquid from leaking past the door 140). The hydrophobic layer 204 may act as a barrier upon which the liquid 202 can pool.
The hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged closer to the second opening 162 than it is to the first opening 104. When aerosol generating material is received in the chamber (such as in the susceptor 132), and the door 140 is in the first position, the hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged between the door 140 and the aerosol generating material.
In some examples, the hydrophobic layer 204 may extend out of the recess 170, such that is arranged in both the recess 170 and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.
As mentioned in relation to FIG. 10, the recess 170 comprises a base 170 a and one or more sidewalls 170 b extending away from the base towards the second opening 162. The one or more apertures 160 are formed in the base 170 a of the recess 170 such that the hydrophobic layer 204 covers the one or more apertures 160. The hydrophobic layer 204 is therefore arranged within the housing to prevent liquid 202 from passing through the one or more apertures 160. In some examples, the hydrophobic layer is gas permeable. In some examples the one or more apertures 160 may be formed in the door 140 but are not formed in the base of the recess 170.
The hydrophobic layer 204 may have a first surface area and the base 170 a may have a second surface area, where the first surface area is larger than the second surface area. Thus, as shown in FIG. 15, when the hydrophobic layer 204 is received in the recess 170, the hydrophobic layer 204 partially extends up the sidewalls 170 b to form a receptacle or reservoir for collecting the liquid 202.
In this example, the hydrophobic layer 204 is made from comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The hydrophobic layer 204 may be made from other hydrophobic materials in other examples.
FIG. 16 depicts the door 140 arranged in a second position such that the second opening 162 is not covered by the door 140. As the door 140 is opened, the hydrophobic layer 204 is tilted, and the liquid 202 may run off the hydrophobic layer and be poured out of the device 100. The door 140 can then be returned to the first/closed position of FIG. 15.
In some examples, the device comprises an absorbing/absorbent member in addition to a hydrophobic layer. For example, a hydrophobic layer may be arranged within a recess of the door 140 in FIG. 8 such that the absorbent member 164 is arranged closer to the first opening 104 than the hydrophobic layer. Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer may be arranged at least partially within in the chamber rather than being within the recess of the door 140. In both of these examples, liquid may only arrive at the hydrophobic layer if it manages to move beyond the absorbent member 164 (i.e. the absorbent member is arranged between the hydrophobic layer and the aerosol generating material).
In another example, a hydrophobic layer may be arranged within the recess 170 of the door 140 in FIG. 10 such that the hydrophobic layer is arranged closer to the first opening 104 than the absorbent member 174. The hydrophobic layer may cover the absorbent member 174, for example. Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer may be arranged at least partially within the chamber rather than being within the recess of the door 140. In both of these examples, liquid may only arrive at the absorbent member 174 if it manages to move beyond the hydrophobic layer (i.e. the hydrophobic layer is arranged between the absorbent member and the aerosol generating material).
In another example, a hydrophobic layer and an absorbent member 174 may be arranged within the recess 170 of the door 140 in FIG. 10 such that the absorbent member 174 is arranged closer to the first opening 104 than the hydrophobic layer. The hydrophobic layer may cover the base 170 a of the recess 170 and the absorbent member 174 may be arranged on top of the hydrophobic layer, for example. Liquid may only arrive at the hydrophobic layer if it manages to move beyond the absorbent member 174 (i.e. the absorbent member is arranged between the hydrophobic layer and the aerosol generating material).
FIG. 17 depicts an absorbent member 206 arranged on a hydrophobic layer 208. The absorbent member 206 and hydrophobic layer 208 may have different shapes to those depicted. The absorbent member 206 may be adhered to the hydrophobic layer 208.
In examples which include an absorbent material, the absorbent material may also be modified to change the sensory experience of a user in addition to absorbing any condensate liquid. For example, the absorbent member could be impregnated or otherwise infused with an aerosol modifying agent, such as a flavorant. Such an aerosol modifying agent may be contained within the absorbent material, using the absorbent material as a matrix to hold the aerosol modifying material. The aerosol modifying material may be included at manufacture of the absorbent material and sealed in a package to prevent evaporation before installation into an aerosol provision device. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol modifying material may be provided in a container within or associated with the absorbent material which is designed to break, rupture or disintegrate when the absorbent material is installed into an aerosol provision device, thus delivering the aerosol modifying material into the absorbent material.
When an aerosol modifying material is incorporated into the absorbent material, it may be desirable to increase the volume of the absorbent material, so that the flavorant can be present in combination with any liquid absorbed without saturating the absorbent material. Some examples increase the diameter of a solid cylindrical absorbent member to do this. For example, the diameter may be increased from around 4.4 mm to 4.6 mm to around 7 mm to 9 mm, such as around 8.2 mm. Increasing the diameter has minimal effect on pressure drop in use, and all other things being equal it will decrease the pressure drop because there are more paths through the absorbent material.
An aerosol modifying agent is a substance that is able to modify aerosol in use. The agent may modify aerosol in such a way as to create a physiological or sensory effect on the human body. Example aerosol modifying agents are flavorants and sensates. A sensate creates an organoleptic sensation that can be perceived through the senses, such as a cool or sour sensation.
The aerosol modifying agent may be held in an agent release component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead. The component may be selectively actuatable, such as by a user, to release the aerosol modifying agent.
As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavorant” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers.
As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavorant” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers. They may include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid, or powder.
The above described examples have included wholly hydrophobic and wholly absorbent portions. Other examples may provide an absorbent material with a composite structure of hydrophobic and hydrophilic elements. The hydrophobic elements can assist with wicking into the absorbent material where liquid is then retained by the hydrophilic elements. The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention.
Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol provision device, comprising:

a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing, through which to receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing;

a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material;

at least one heater arranged within the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and

an absorbent material for absorbing liquid;

wherein, in use, the aerosol is drawn along a flow path through the chamber towards the first opening and the absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream of the at least part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material.

2. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further comprising a cover movable between a first position in which the second opening is blocked by the cover, and a second position in which the second opening is not blocked by the cover.

3. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein:

the cover comprises a recess; and

the absorbent material is arranged at least partially in the recess.

4. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein, in use, the absorbent material is at least partially positioned between the aerosol generating material and the cover.

5. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein the cover is detachable from the aerosol provision device.

6. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material comprises foam, sponge, paper or cellulose acetate.

7. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material has an absorption capacity of at least 7 grams of water per gram of absorbent material.

8. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material is at least partially arranged within a section of the chamber.

9. (canceled)

10. (canceled)

11. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the absorbent material is gas permeable.

12. (canceled)

13. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material comprises a through-hole for air to pass through.

14. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further comprising an absorbent member which comprises the absorbent material supported by a substrate.

15. (canceled)

16. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further comprising a brush which comprises the absorbent material.

17. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the chamber comprises a barrier to separate the aerosol generating material from the absorbent material.

18. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further comprising a hydrophobic material arranged within the housing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device.

19. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic, or comprises a hydrophobic coating, to encourage the liquid to flow towards the absorbent material.

20. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the absorbent material is configured to provide a visual indication to indicate that the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned.

21. (canceled)

22. (canceled)

23. An absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosol provision device, the absorbent member comprising:

an absorbent material supported by a substrate, wherein the absorbent material is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber or a door of the aerosol provision device adjacent aerosol generating material.

24-29. (canceled)

30. An aerosol provision device, comprising:

a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive aerosol generating material;

at least one heater arranged within the housing, configured to heat the aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and

a hydrophobic material arranged within the housing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device;

wherein, in use, the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening.

31. The aerosol provision device according to claim 30, further comprising a cover movable between a first position in which the second opening is blocked by the cover and a second position in which the second opening is not blocked by the cover, wherein the hydrophobic material is configured to substantially prevent liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in the first position.

32-39. (canceled)

40. The aerosol provision device according to claim 30, further comprising an absorbent material.

41-50. (canceled)