WO2024056819A1 - Cartridge comprising a wick forming airflow channels and associated aerosol generating system - Google Patents

Cartridge comprising a wick forming airflow channels and associated aerosol generating system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2024056819A1
WO2024056819A1 PCT/EP2023/075339 EP2023075339W WO2024056819A1 WO 2024056819 A1 WO2024056819 A1 WO 2024056819A1 EP 2023075339 W EP2023075339 W EP 2023075339W WO 2024056819 A1 WO2024056819 A1 WO 2024056819A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cartridge
wick
airflow
channels
airflow channel
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2023/075339
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Juraj LEHOCKY
Original Assignee
Jt International Sa
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Jt International Sa filed Critical Jt International Sa
Publication of WO2024056819A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024056819A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/42—Cartridges or containers for inhalable precursors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/44—Wicks
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/48—Fluid transfer means, e.g. pumps
    • A24F40/485—Valves; Apertures
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/10—Devices using liquid inhalable precursors

Definitions

  • Cartridge comprising a wick forming airflow channels and associated aerosol generating system
  • the present invention concerns a cartridge and an aerosol generating system associated to such a cartridge.
  • Consumable cartridges also known as pods, are used in aerosol generating devices such as electronic cigarettes and vaping devices to provide a vaporizable material that is heated to generate an aerosol or vapour for inhalation by a user.
  • the consumable cartridge includes generally a wick that ensures liquid transmission from a reservoir to a heating element where it is vaporized and mixed with an airflow coming from the exterior of the cartridge.
  • vaporization of the vaporizable material and/or its mixing with the airflow is not optimal that can causes leakages, wick clogging, under-heating or over-heating of the vaporizable material, pressure drops, undesirable draw resistance, etc.
  • An aim of the present invention is to improve vaporization of the vaporizable material and/or its mixing with an airflow to avoid the above-mentioned issues.
  • the invention concerns a cartridge configured to operate with an aerosol generating device and comprising:
  • wick having substantially cylindrical shape extending along a cartridge axis and defining a centre hole
  • the wick comprises an absorbing surface designed to be contact with the liquid vaporizable material and a vaporizing surface extending transversally to the cartridge axis and intended to be heated by a heating surface; wherein the vaporizing surface forms a plurality of airflow channels extending from a periphery to the centre hole of the wick and configured to conduct airflows from the outside of the cartridge to the airflow path.
  • the airflow channels formed on the vaporizing surface of the wick ensure an optimal airflow inside the cartridge.
  • airflow can enter the cartridge from a periphery of the wick, be mixed with vaporized vaporizable material while passing along the airflow channels and be delivered to the user from the centre hole of the wick.
  • airflow can flow along the vaporizing surface that improves its mixing with the vaporized vaporizable material.
  • by adapting the geometry and dimensions of the airflow channels it is possible to achieve different properties of the resulting flow. These properties can be chosen based on the desired taste of the aerosol, its draw resistance, intensity of the vapour, duration of the vaping session, etc.
  • variation of the airflow channels’ geometry can conduct to either laminar or turbulent flow in the central part of the wick.
  • geometry and dimensions of the airflow channels can be chosen based on the nature of the vaporizable material contained in the reservoir. Thus, it is possible to achieve specific flow effects associated to each taste of the vaporizable material. For example, for some strong tastes, it is possible to configure the airflow channels to achieve a turbulent flow in the outlet of the cartridge. On the contrary, for milder tastes, the airflow channels can be configured to generate a laminar flow which would be less intensive than a turbulent flow.
  • the plurality of airflow channels ensures a better sustainability of the cartridge in comparison for example with a single channel extending through the wick.
  • the channel or at least a part of it can be clogged by different kind of residues and/or dust so as the whole cartridge becomes unusable.
  • the probability of clogging of all the airflow channels is quite low so as the cartridge can be usable even when one of the channels is clogged.
  • the plurality of airflow channels comprises at least 3, preferably 5 channels. Their number can for example be comprised between 5 and 15, preferably between 7 and 12. Additionally, with a plurality of airflow channels, their length can be reduced in comparison with a single channel extending through the wick. This can result in a lower vape temperature that may be desirable in some cases (for example to be less harmful in some cases). In the same time, despite a lower temperature, the quantity of the generated aerosol can remain relatively high since a plurality of channels is used.
  • each airflow channel is formed by a groove formed at the vaporizing surface.
  • the airflow channels can be formed directly in the material forming the wick.
  • the walls of the airflow channels can be formed by the wick material that improves mixing of the airflow with the vaporized vaporizable material.
  • the depth of each airflow channel can be adapted to ensure an optimal result.
  • each airflow channel extends according to a radial direction.
  • radial direction it should be understood any direction which extends from its geometrical centre (start point) to a point on the periphery of the wick (i.e. end point).
  • a radial direction can be rectilinear.
  • a radial direction is curvilinear. In this last case, it extends advantageously on one side of the straight line connecting its start and end points. According to another example, it extends on both sides of the straight line connecting its start and end points and crosses at least once this line between the start and end points.
  • the airflow channels When the airflow channels extend according to radial directions, the airflow leaves the channels without creating a cyclonic flow at the centre of the wick. This flow can further be delivered to the user according to a straight path that avoids its unnecessary cooling before achieving the user’s mouth.
  • each airflow channel extends according to a direction inclined in respect with a radial direction.
  • each airflow channel can be inclined with respect to the corresponding radial direction according to an angle comprised between 1 ° and 90°, advantageously between 5° and 45°, and preferably between 7° and 35°.
  • the inclined directions do not cross each other at the centre of the wick. This causes a cyclonic flow at the centre of the wick until achieving the user’ mouth.
  • the path of the airflow after leaving the wick can be elongated that contributes to its cooling before achieving the user’s mouth.
  • each inclined direction can be either rectilinear or curvilinear.
  • each airflow channel is rectilinear.
  • Rectilinear airflow channels lead to a laminar flow at the centre of the wick. Additionally, rectilinear flow channels can be easier to manufacture compared with curved ones, using for example any available extrusion or stamping process.
  • each airflow channel is curved.
  • Curved airflow channels cause a longer path for the airflow in comparison with rectilinear channels. This can lead to a denser vapour.
  • all of the airflow channels are curved in the same direction.
  • the airflow can exit each airflow channel substantially perpendicularly to a circle delimiting the centre hole. This leads to a laminar flow in the centre of the wick.
  • each airflow channel extending from a given point of the periphery of the vaporizing surface extends substantially according to a direction inclined in respect to a tangent direction in said point according to an angle comprised between 15° and 90°, advantageously between 25° and 90° and preferably between 35° and 90°.
  • the thickness of the wall delimiting each channel can be sufficient to avoid its cracking near the periphery of the vaporizing surface and simplify its manufacturing.
  • the distance between lateral walls delimiting each airflow channel varies according to the cartridge axis.
  • said distance increases or decreases while approaching the inside of the wick according to the cartridge axis.
  • the channels When the distance between the walls decreases while approaching the inside of the wick, the channels have a larger opening on the vaporizing surface of the wick. In this case, the contacting area of the vaporizing surface with the heater is decreased. Thus, it is possible to achieve energy savings while delivering less dense vapour having a lower draw to resistance.
  • the channels have a smaller opening on the vaporizing surface of the wick.
  • a powerful heater should be applied on the vaporizing surface. This would lead to a stronger taste of the vapour with a higher resistance to draw.
  • the airflow channels are equispaced according to a at least a circumferential direction corresponding to the periphery of the vaporizing surface.
  • the airflow channels are equispaced according to each circumferential direction extending around the central hole.
  • the interface element can be made from a heat conducting material to optimize heat transmission from the external heater to the wick. Additionally, the interface element can ensure a more homogeneous heat transmission according to the whole area of the vaporizing surface. Moreover, the interface element can play a significant role in leakage protection of the liquid vaporizable material. In some embodiments, the interface element presents two different portions designed to be in contact with separated heating elements of the external element.
  • the absorbing surface is opposite to the vaporizing surface, the wick further comprising a lateral surface extending between the vaporizing surface and the absorbing surface.
  • each airflow channel opens to a lower part of the lateral surface of the wick and is in fluid communication with air inlet holes formed on a cover of the cartridge.
  • guiding channels can be arranged inside the device and open to the air inlet holes of the cartridge when the cartridge operates with the device.
  • the guiding channels are formed at least partially between an exterior surface of the cartridge and a wall delimiting the cavity of the device designed to receive the cartridge.
  • an upper part of the lateral surface comprises a seal cap sealing the reservoir.
  • the invention also concerns an aerosol generating system, comprising:
  • FIG. 1 shows two perspective views of a cartridge according to the invention
  • - Figure 2 is a cross-sectional partial view of the cartridge of Figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 4 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Figure 1 , the cartridge comprising a wick ;
  • FIGS. 5 to 9 are perspective views of the wick of Figures 4, according to different embodiments of the invention.
  • the term “aerosol generating device” or “device” may include a vaping device to deliver an aerosol to a user, including an aerosol for vaping, by means of a heater element explained in further detail below.
  • the device may be designed and configured to be hand held by a user, i.e. held and used within one hand of the user.
  • the device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol, e.g. by activating the heater element for a variable amount of time (as opposed to a metered dose of aerosol), which can be controlled by a trigger.
  • the trigger may be user activated, such as by a manual actuator located on an outer surface of the device (button or switch) and/or by means of an airflow or inhalation sensor arranged in the airflow path of the device.
  • the inhalation sensor may be sensitive to the velocity of an airflow passing across the sensor during an inhalation by a user as well as the duration of inhalation to enable a variable amount of vapour to be provided (so as to mimic the effect of smoking a conventional combustible smoking article such as a cigarette, cigar or pipe, etc.).
  • the device may include a temperature regulation control to adjust the temperature of the heater and/or of the heated aerosol generating substance (aerosol precursor) to a specified target temperature and thereafter to maintain the temperature at the target temperature that enables efficient generation of aerosol.
  • aerosol may include a suspension of vaporizable material as one or more of: solid particles; liquid droplets; gas. Said suspension may be in a gas including air. Aerosol herein may generally refer to/include a vapour. Aerosol may include one or more components of the vaporizable material.
  • the term “vaporizable material” or “precursor” may refer to a material which may comprise nicotine or tobacco and an aerosol former.
  • tobacco may take the form of various materials such as shredded tobacco, granulated tobacco, tobacco leaf and/or reconstituted tobacco.
  • Suitable aerosol formers include: a polyol such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols like propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; a non-polyol such as monohydric alcohols, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerin or vegetable glycerin.
  • the aerosol generating agent may be glycerol, propylene glycol, or a mixture of glycerol and propylene glycol.
  • the substrate may also comprise at least one of a gelling agent, a binding agent, a stabilizing agent, and a humectant.
  • Figure 1 illustrates an outer view of a cartridge 102 or pod according to the invention.
  • This cartridge 102 is configured to operate with an aerosol generating device.
  • a heater 1 12 of the aerosol generating device is shown.
  • the aerosol generating device may further comprise a battery for powering the heater 112 and a controller for controlling the power delivered to the heater 1 12.
  • the aerosol generating device may define a cavity adapted to receive at least partially the cartridge 102 and connect the heater 1 12 to an interface element as it will be explained in further detail below.
  • the heater 112 presents two separated heating elements. Each heating element comprises for example a resistive element designed to be in contact with the interface element.
  • the cartridge 102 extends along a cartridge axis X and has for example an aluminium outer shell that includes an upper body 104 and a lower end cover 106 or end part.
  • the upper body 104 and the end cover 106 are both cup-shaped.
  • the upper body 104 has an air outlet 108, which is the opening at the end of a nozzle provided inside of the upper body 104.
  • the end cover 106 has one or several holes 110 cut out in its bottom surface, which reveal an interface element in the cartridge 102.
  • the interface element is configured to contact the heater 1 12 and conduct heat into the cartridge 102.
  • the interface element is part of a wick assembly in the cartridge 102 in which a wick storing a liquid vaporizable material is provided.
  • connection joint 1 14 may be filled with a sealant to ensure a leak-proof connection.
  • any other type of connection between the upper body 104 and the end cover 106 may be provided.
  • the cartridge 102 also has air inlet holes 116 that are drilled or formed in the side of the end cover 106.
  • the air inlet holes 1 16 may be uncovered when the cartridge 102 is received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device.
  • the air inlet holes 1 16 may be covered by the walls delimiting the cavity. In this case, a gap may be formed between these walls and the external surface of the end cover 106 or the air inlet holes 1 16 may face air-guiding channels formed within the aerosol generating device.
  • the size of the air inlet holes 1 16 as well as airflow channels formed on a wick surface define a resistance to draw of the cartridge 102, as it will be explained in further detail below.
  • Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the outer shell.
  • the upper body 104 has a central nozzle 118 extending along the cartridge axis X and an outer wall 120 formed radially around the outer surface of the central nozzle 1 18.
  • the central nozzle 1 18 has an aerosol receiving end 122 and an opening which is the air outlet 108 of the cartridge 102.
  • the wall of the central nozzle 1 18 is tapered, where the cross-sectional area of the nozzle 118 increases from the receiving end 122 to the air outlet 108.
  • the outer wall 120 has a thickness of, for example, about 0,2 millimetres.
  • the upper body 104 can be advantageously made from a single piece or disc of aluminium that is punched and drawn for example in a multistage process.
  • the receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 118 and the edge of the outer wall 120 is shaped to a press-fit edge 124 for connection with the end cover 106.
  • the end cover 106 also has a nozzle 126, which may be plugged and/or used for another purpose such as a push-fit or alignment connection with the aerosol generating device.
  • the end cover 106 has an outer wall 128 radially around the nozzle 126, and the air inlet holes 1 16 described above are drilled into the end cover outer wall 128.
  • the end cover nozzle 126 is also tapered such that the cross-sectional area of the nozzle 126 decreases from the bottom surface of the end cover 106 to the top end 130 of the end cover nozzle 126, which connects to the receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 118 of the upper body 104.
  • the smaller cross-sectional area where the central nozzle 1 18 connects with the end cover nozzle 126 allows for a higher speed of delivery of aerosol into the central nozzle 118, and the widening cross-sectional area of the central nozzle 1 18 retards the speed of delivery of aerosol as it travels through the central nozzle 1 18 to a user, which allows the aerosol to cool.
  • the end cover 106 is for example also made from a single piece or disc of aluminium that is punched and drawn in a multistage process.
  • the top end 130 of the end cover nozzle 126 and the edge of the outer wall 128 are shaped to a press-fit edge 132 for connection with the upper body 104.
  • Aerosol delivery holes 134 are provided in the end cover nozzle 126 to provide an airflow path from the air inlet holes 1 16 to the aerosol delivery holes 134 through the wick as it will be explained in further detail below. It should therefore be understood that, in use, outside air enters the cartridge 102 through the air inlet holes 1 16, picks up generated aerosol as it passes through the wick, and the air and aerosol is delivered through the aerosol delivery holes 134 to the end cover nozzle 126 and then, to the receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 1 18 of the upper body 104 for further delivery to the air outlet 108 and user inhalation.
  • the end cover nozzle 126 and the central nozzle 1 18 form thus an airflow path extending along the cartridge axis X until the user’s mouth.
  • the bottom surface of the end cover 106 has holes 110 that are cut out in a shape to correspond with the heater 1 12 of the aerosol generating device. This is to allow the heater 112 or several heating elements composing the heater 1 12 to pass through the bottom surface of the end cover 106 and press against the interface element of the wick assembly of the cartridge 102.
  • Figures 3 and 4 shows a cross-sectional views of cartridge 102 having the upper body 104 and the lower end cover 106 connected using a push-fit or press-fit connection.
  • the press-fit edge 124 of the upper body 104 interlocks with the press-fit edge 132 of the end cover 106, and the top end 130 of the end cover nozzle 126 is pushed into and fitted within the receiving end 122 of the upper body central nozzle 1 18.
  • the receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 1 18 also flares outwardly, which along with the press-fit edge 124 of the upper body 104 act as a stop for a wick assembly 136 of the cartridge 102.
  • the wick assembly 136 is positioned in the end cover 106 in the space radially around the end cover nozzle 126, between the outer surface of the end cover nozzle 126 and the inner surface of the outer wall 128 of the end cover 106.
  • the outer surface of the central nozzle 1 18, the inner surface of the outer wall 120 of the upper body 104 and the top surface of the wick assembly 136 together form a reservoir 138 in which a liquid vaporizable material can be stored inside the consumable cartridge 102.
  • the internal surfaces of the upper body 104 and end cover 106 can for example be coated with a ceramic or polymer coating.
  • the wick assembly 136 includes a wick 140 made for example of ceramic(s) that is surrounded by an upper seal cap 142 over its top surface, a membrane 144 around its side walls and an interface element 146 on its lower surface.
  • the upper seal cap 142 is made for example of silicone and has openings 148 to allow vaporizable material to flow out of the liquid reservoir 138 into the wick 140. It should be appreciated that, when constructed, the vaporizable material can only flow out of the liquid reservoir 138 through the openings 148 in the upper seal cap 142 into the wick 140.
  • the top surface of the wick 140 is thus called absorbing surface 149.
  • the upper seal cap 142 extends over the top surface of the wick 140 to the upper end of the sides of the wick 140 (which include the surfaces of the wick 140 adjacent to both the end cover outer wall 128 and the end cover nozzle 126) to ensure any leakage of vaporizable material away from the openings 148 is prevented.
  • the interfacing surfaces of the upper seal cap 142 and the wick 140 along the sides of the wick 140 can for example be ridged respectively to provide a secure fit of the upper seal cap 142 over the wick 140.
  • the membrane 144 of the wick assembly 136 provided around the side surfaces of the wick 140 is for example a polymer membrane such as polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon).
  • the membrane 144 is air-permeable, and optionally may further include additional holes to improve the distribution air through the wick 140.
  • the wick 140 and the membrane 144 are also shaped to allow a gap between the membrane and the outer wall 128 of the end cover 106 and/or the end cover nozzle 126 for improved airflow through the wick 140.
  • the interface element 146 is an impermeable layer that covers the bottom surface of the wick 140 to prevent liquid from leaking out of the wick 140 through the holes 1 10 in the end cover 106.
  • the interface element 146 extends across the bottom surface of the wick 140 to the lower end of the sides of the wick 140 (which include the surfaces of the wick 140 adjacent to both the end cover outer wall 128 and the end cover nozzle 126) to prevent leakage.
  • the outer surface (i.e. the lower surface) of the interface element 146 is in contact with the heater 112 of the aerosol generating device in use and transmits heat from the heater 112 to the wick 140 that sits on the inner surface of the interface element 146 in the wick assembly 136.
  • the bottom surface of the wick 146 is thus called vaporizing surface 151 .
  • a thermally insulating seal (not shown), such as a silicone sealant, can be used to glue the interface element 146 to the bottom surface of the end cover 106, which prevents or minimises heat from being conducted into the aluminium end cover 106.
  • the wick 140 has a generally cylindrical shape extending along the cartridge axis X and defining for example a circular cross-section.
  • the wick 140 defines a centre hole 153 that extends around the end cover nozzle 126.
  • the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick defines a plurality of airflow channels extending from the periphery of the wick 140 to the centre hole 153. Particularly, these airflow channels are designed to guide through the vaporizing surface 151 airflow from the air inlet holes 116 arranged in the side of the end cover 106 to the aerosol delivery holes 134 arranged in the end cover nozzle 126.
  • each airflow channel opens on one hand to a lateral surface of the wick 140 extending between its absorbing surface 149 and its vaporizing surface 151 , and on the other hand, to the centre hole 153.
  • the vaporizing surface 151 is heated by the interface element 146, airflow passing through these airflow channels is mixed with vaporized vaporizable material and then, delivered to the user through the end cover nozzle 126 and the central nozzle 118.
  • These airflow channels can be realized according to different embodiments of the invention which now will be explained in reference to Figures 5 to 9.
  • FIG. 5 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 210 are formed according to a first embodiment of the invention.
  • each airflow channel 210 extends between a start point and an end point according to a direction which is inclined in respect with the corresponding rectilinear radial direction at the start point.
  • the inclination angle can for example be comprised between 1 ° and 90°, advantageously between 5° and 45°, and preferably between 7° and 35°.
  • the end points of all of the airflow channels 210 form thus a circle extending around the centre hole 153.
  • each airflow channel 210 is rectilinear and forms a constant shape in its cross-section. In the example of Figure 5, this cross-section is rectangular.
  • the depth of each airflow channel 210 is also constant and forms for example at least 30%, advantageously 40% and preferably 50%, of the total thickness of the wick 140. In a general case, the depth of each airflow channel 210 can correspond to the height of the membrane 144 measured according to the cartridge axis X.
  • the length of the airflow channels 210 is variable based on their position on the vaporizing surface 151. In a nonshown embodiment, each airflow channel 210 can also be curvilinear.
  • Figure 6 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 310 are formed according to a second embodiment of the invention.
  • each airflow channel 310 extends between a start point and an end point according to a radial direction which is, in the example of Figure 6, curvilinear. According to this embodiment, the airflow from each airflow channel 310 exits this airflow channel according to a direction perpendicular to the circle delimiting the centre hole 153. This leads to a laminar flow at the centre.
  • each airflow channel 310 can be constant (rectangular for example) but the dimensions can be variable.
  • each airflow channel 310 can be slightly narrowing from its start point to its end point.
  • the cross-section of each airflow channel 310 presents constant dimensions.
  • the depth of each airflow channel 130 can be similar to one explained in relation with the first embodiment.
  • THIRD EMBODIMENT Figure 7 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 410 are formed according to a third embodiment of the invention.
  • each airflow channel 410 extends between a start point and an end point according to a curvilinear radial direction.
  • each airflow channel 410 forms in its cross-section a trapezoidal shape where the distance between the lateral walls increases while approaching the inside of the wick 140 according to the cartridge axis X.
  • the airflow channels 410 present a reduced width at the vaporizing surface 151 which is broadened at the bottom of the channels 410.
  • This cross-sectional shape of the channels 410 leads to dense strong vape with a higher draw resistance in comparison with the previous embodiment.
  • Figure 8 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 510 are formed according to a forth embodiment of the invention.
  • each airflow channel 510 forms a trapezoidal shape in each cross-section.
  • the distance between the lateral walls of each airflow channel 510 decreases while approaching the inside of the wick 140 according to the cartridge axis X.
  • the airflow channels 510 present an enlarged width at the vaporizing surface 151 which is narrowed at the bottom of the channels 510.
  • each airflow channel 510 can extend to a rectilinear radial direction.
  • the cross-sectional shape of the airflow channels 510 leads on one hand, to saving electrical energy from the battery because of a smaller contact area with the interface element 146 but on the other hand delivering less dense vapour and lower draw resistance.
  • FIFTH EMBODIMENT Figure 9 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 610 are formed according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.
  • each airflow channel 610 forms a trapezoidal shape in each cross-section.
  • the width of each airflow channel 610 is reduced at the vaporizing surface 151 as well at the bottom of each channel so as to form an almost triangular cross- sectional shape.
  • each airflow channel 610 can extend according to a slightly curvilinear radial direction.
  • this cross-sectional shape of the channels may lead to moderate draw resistance while presenting an intermediate power consumption.
  • the airflow channels can be arranged in an irregular way and/or the vaporizing surface can form a non-circular shape, for example an oval, a square or a triangular shape.

Landscapes

  • Catching Or Destruction (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention concerns a cartridge configured to operate with an aerosol generating device and comprising: - a reservoir for storing a liquid vaporizable material; - a wick (140) having substantially cylindrical shape extending along a cartridge axis (X) and defining a centre hole (153); - an airflow path extending along the cartridge axis (X) through the centre hole (153) of the wick (140); wherein the wick (140) comprises an absorbing surface designed to be contact with the liquid vaporizable material and a vaporizing surface (151) extending transversally to the cartridge axis (X) and intended to be heated by a heating surface; wherein the vaporizing surface (151) forms a plurality of airflow channels (210) extending from a periphery to the centre hole (153) of the wick (140) and configured to conduct airflows from the outside of the cartridge to the airflow path.

Description

Cartridge comprising a wick forming airflow channels and associated aerosol generating system
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention concerns a cartridge and an aerosol generating system associated to such a cartridge.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Consumable cartridges, also known as pods, are used in aerosol generating devices such as electronic cigarettes and vaping devices to provide a vaporizable material that is heated to generate an aerosol or vapour for inhalation by a user.
In case of a liquid vaporizable material, the consumable cartridge includes generally a wick that ensures liquid transmission from a reservoir to a heating element where it is vaporized and mixed with an airflow coming from the exterior of the cartridge. However, in some case, vaporization of the vaporizable material and/or its mixing with the airflow is not optimal that can causes leakages, wick clogging, under-heating or over-heating of the vaporizable material, pressure drops, undesirable draw resistance, etc.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An aim of the present invention is to improve vaporization of the vaporizable material and/or its mixing with an airflow to avoid the above-mentioned issues.
For this purpose, the invention concerns a cartridge configured to operate with an aerosol generating device and comprising:
- a reservoir for storing a liquid vaporizable material;
- a wick having substantially cylindrical shape extending along a cartridge axis and defining a centre hole;
- an airflow path extending along the cartridge axis through the centre hole of the wick; wherein the wick comprises an absorbing surface designed to be contact with the liquid vaporizable material and a vaporizing surface extending transversally to the cartridge axis and intended to be heated by a heating surface; wherein the vaporizing surface forms a plurality of airflow channels extending from a periphery to the centre hole of the wick and configured to conduct airflows from the outside of the cartridge to the airflow path.
The airflow channels formed on the vaporizing surface of the wick ensure an optimal airflow inside the cartridge. Particularly, airflow can enter the cartridge from a periphery of the wick, be mixed with vaporized vaporizable material while passing along the airflow channels and be delivered to the user from the centre hole of the wick. Thus, airflow can flow along the vaporizing surface that improves its mixing with the vaporized vaporizable material. Additionally, as it will be explained in further detail below, by adapting the geometry and dimensions of the airflow channels, it is possible to achieve different properties of the resulting flow. These properties can be chosen based on the desired taste of the aerosol, its draw resistance, intensity of the vapour, duration of the vaping session, etc. For example, variation of the airflow channels’ geometry can conduct to either laminar or turbulent flow in the central part of the wick.
Additionally, geometry and dimensions of the airflow channels can be chosen based on the nature of the vaporizable material contained in the reservoir. Thus, it is possible to achieve specific flow effects associated to each taste of the vaporizable material. For example, for some strong tastes, it is possible to configure the airflow channels to achieve a turbulent flow in the outlet of the cartridge. On the contrary, for milder tastes, the airflow channels can be configured to generate a laminar flow which would be less intensive than a turbulent flow.
Moreover, the plurality of airflow channels ensures a better sustainability of the cartridge in comparison for example with a single channel extending through the wick. Particularly, in the single channel case, the channel or at least a part of it can be clogged by different kind of residues and/or dust so as the whole cartridge becomes unusable. On the contrary, in case of a plurality of channels, the probability of clogging of all the airflow channels is quite low so as the cartridge can be usable even when one of the channels is clogged.
Advantageously, the plurality of airflow channels comprises at least 3, preferably 5 channels. Their number can for example be comprised between 5 and 15, preferably between 7 and 12. Additionally, with a plurality of airflow channels, their length can be reduced in comparison with a single channel extending through the wick. This can result in a lower vape temperature that may be desirable in some cases (for example to be less harmful in some cases). In the same time, despite a lower temperature, the quantity of the generated aerosol can remain relatively high since a plurality of channels is used.
According to some embodiments, each airflow channel is formed by a groove formed at the vaporizing surface.
Thanks to these features, the airflow channels can be formed directly in the material forming the wick. Thus, the walls of the airflow channels can be formed by the wick material that improves mixing of the airflow with the vaporized vaporizable material. Additionally, the depth of each airflow channel can be adapted to ensure an optimal result.
According to some embodiments, each airflow channel extends according to a radial direction.
By “radial direction”, it should be understood any direction which extends from its geometrical centre (start point) to a point on the periphery of the wick (i.e. end point). A radial direction can be rectilinear. According to other embodiments, a radial direction is curvilinear. In this last case, it extends advantageously on one side of the straight line connecting its start and end points. According to another example, it extends on both sides of the straight line connecting its start and end points and crosses at least once this line between the start and end points.
When the airflow channels extend according to radial directions, the airflow leaves the channels without creating a cyclonic flow at the centre of the wick. This flow can further be delivered to the user according to a straight path that avoids its unnecessary cooling before achieving the user’s mouth.
According to some embodiments, each airflow channel extends according to a direction inclined in respect with a radial direction.
The direction of each airflow channel can be inclined with respect to the corresponding radial direction according to an angle comprised between 1 ° and 90°, advantageously between 5° and 45°, and preferably between 7° and 35°. Thus, contrary to the radial directions, the inclined directions do not cross each other at the centre of the wick. This causes a cyclonic flow at the centre of the wick until achieving the user’ mouth. Thus, the path of the airflow after leaving the wick can be elongated that contributes to its cooling before achieving the user’s mouth.
As in the previous case, each inclined direction can be either rectilinear or curvilinear.
According to some embodiments, each airflow channel is rectilinear.
Rectilinear airflow channels lead to a laminar flow at the centre of the wick. Additionally, rectilinear flow channels can be easier to manufacture compared with curved ones, using for example any available extrusion or stamping process.
According to some embodiments, each airflow channel is curved.
Curved airflow channels cause a longer path for the airflow in comparison with rectilinear channels. This can lead to a denser vapour.
According to some embodiments, all of the airflow channels are curved in the same direction.
Thanks to these features, the airflow can exit each airflow channel substantially perpendicularly to a circle delimiting the centre hole. This leads to a laminar flow in the centre of the wick.
According to some embodiments, each airflow channel extending from a given point of the periphery of the vaporizing surface, extends substantially according to a direction inclined in respect to a tangent direction in said point according to an angle comprised between 15° and 90°, advantageously between 25° and 90° and preferably between 35° and 90°.
Thanks to these features, the thickness of the wall delimiting each channel can be sufficient to avoid its cracking near the periphery of the vaporizing surface and simplify its manufacturing. According to some embodiments, the distance between lateral walls delimiting each airflow channel varies according to the cartridge axis.
According to some embodiments, said distance increases or decreases while approaching the inside of the wick according to the cartridge axis.
When the distance between the walls decreases while approaching the inside of the wick, the channels have a larger opening on the vaporizing surface of the wick. In this case, the contacting area of the vaporizing surface with the heater is decreased. Thus, it is possible to achieve energy savings while delivering less dense vapour having a lower draw to resistance.
On the contrary, when the distance between the walls increases while approaching the inside of the wick, the channels have a smaller opening on the vaporizing surface of the wick. In this case, a powerful heater should be applied on the vaporizing surface. This would lead to a stronger taste of the vapour with a higher resistance to draw.
According to some embodiments, the airflow channels are equispaced according to a at least a circumferential direction corresponding to the periphery of the vaporizing surface.
In some embodiments, the airflow channels are equispaced according to each circumferential direction extending around the central hole.
Thanks to these features, it is possible to achieve a relatively homogeneous flow through the whole area of the vaporizing surface. Thus, mixing of the vaporized vaporizable material with the airflow can be optimized.
According to some embodiments, comprising an interface element forming said heating surface and comprising an opposite surface designed to be in direct contact with an external heater.
The interface element can be made from a heat conducting material to optimize heat transmission from the external heater to the wick. Additionally, the interface element can ensure a more homogeneous heat transmission according to the whole area of the vaporizing surface. Moreover, the interface element can play a significant role in leakage protection of the liquid vaporizable material. In some embodiments, the interface element presents two different portions designed to be in contact with separated heating elements of the external element.
According to some embodiments, the absorbing surface is opposite to the vaporizing surface, the wick further comprising a lateral surface extending between the vaporizing surface and the absorbing surface.
According to some embodiments, each airflow channel opens to a lower part of the lateral surface of the wick and is in fluid communication with air inlet holes formed on a cover of the cartridge.
Thanks to these features, airflow can be sucked from the exterior of the cartridge using for example guiding channels. These guiding channels can be arranged inside the device and open to the air inlet holes of the cartridge when the cartridge operates with the device. According to another embodiment, the guiding channels are formed at least partially between an exterior surface of the cartridge and a wall delimiting the cavity of the device designed to receive the cartridge.
According to some embodiments, an upper part of the lateral surface comprises a seal cap sealing the reservoir.
Thanks to these features, it is possible to avoid leakages from the reservoir containing the liquid vaporizable material.
The invention also concerns an aerosol generating system, comprising:
- a cartridge as defined above;
- an aerosol generating device configured to operate with said cartridge
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention and its advantages will be better understood upon reading the following description, which is given byway of non-limiting example and which is made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 shows two perspective views of a cartridge according to the invention; - Figure 2 is a cross-sectional partial view of the cartridge of Figure 1 ;
- Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Figure 1 ;
- Figure 4 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Figure 1 , the cartridge comprising a wick ;
- Figures 5 to 9 are perspective views of the wick of Figures 4, according to different embodiments of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Before describing the invention, it is to be understood that it is not limited to the details of construction set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.
As used herein, the term “aerosol generating device” or “device” may include a vaping device to deliver an aerosol to a user, including an aerosol for vaping, by means of a heater element explained in further detail below. The device may be designed and configured to be hand held by a user, i.e. held and used within one hand of the user. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol, e.g. by activating the heater element for a variable amount of time (as opposed to a metered dose of aerosol), which can be controlled by a trigger. The trigger may be user activated, such as by a manual actuator located on an outer surface of the device (button or switch) and/or by means of an airflow or inhalation sensor arranged in the airflow path of the device. The inhalation sensor may be sensitive to the velocity of an airflow passing across the sensor during an inhalation by a user as well as the duration of inhalation to enable a variable amount of vapour to be provided (so as to mimic the effect of smoking a conventional combustible smoking article such as a cigarette, cigar or pipe, etc.). The device may include a temperature regulation control to adjust the temperature of the heater and/or of the heated aerosol generating substance (aerosol precursor) to a specified target temperature and thereafter to maintain the temperature at the target temperature that enables efficient generation of aerosol. As used herein, the term “aerosol” may include a suspension of vaporizable material as one or more of: solid particles; liquid droplets; gas. Said suspension may be in a gas including air. Aerosol herein may generally refer to/include a vapour. Aerosol may include one or more components of the vaporizable material.
As used herein, the term “vaporizable material” or “precursor” may refer to a material which may comprise nicotine or tobacco and an aerosol former. Tobacco may take the form of various materials such as shredded tobacco, granulated tobacco, tobacco leaf and/or reconstituted tobacco. Suitable aerosol formers include: a polyol such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols like propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; a non-polyol such as monohydric alcohols, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerin or vegetable glycerin. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating agent may be glycerol, propylene glycol, or a mixture of glycerol and propylene glycol. The substrate may also comprise at least one of a gelling agent, a binding agent, a stabilizing agent, and a humectant.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 illustrates an outer view of a cartridge 102 or pod according to the invention. This cartridge 102 is configured to operate with an aerosol generating device. In Figure 1 only a heater 1 12 of the aerosol generating device is shown. In a general case, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a battery for powering the heater 112 and a controller for controlling the power delivered to the heater 1 12. To operate with the cartridge 102, the aerosol generating device may define a cavity adapted to receive at least partially the cartridge 102 and connect the heater 1 12 to an interface element as it will be explained in further detail below. In the example of Figure 1 , the heater 112 presents two separated heating elements. Each heating element comprises for example a resistive element designed to be in contact with the interface element.
The cartridge 102 extends along a cartridge axis X and has for example an aluminium outer shell that includes an upper body 104 and a lower end cover 106 or end part. The upper body 104 and the end cover 106 are both cup-shaped. The upper body 104 has an air outlet 108, which is the opening at the end of a nozzle provided inside of the upper body 104. The end cover 106 has one or several holes 110 cut out in its bottom surface, which reveal an interface element in the cartridge 102. The interface element is configured to contact the heater 1 12 and conduct heat into the cartridge 102. As will be explained below, the interface element is part of a wick assembly in the cartridge 102 in which a wick storing a liquid vaporizable material is provided.
In the example of Figure 1 , the upper body 104 and the end cover 106 are connected at their respective edges at a connection joint 114. The connection joint 1 14 may be filled with a sealant to ensure a leak-proof connection. In other embodiments, any other type of connection between the upper body 104 and the end cover 106 may be provided.
The cartridge 102 also has air inlet holes 116 that are drilled or formed in the side of the end cover 106. The air inlet holes 1 16 may be uncovered when the cartridge 102 is received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device. According to another embodiment, the air inlet holes 1 16 may be covered by the walls delimiting the cavity. In this case, a gap may be formed between these walls and the external surface of the end cover 106 or the air inlet holes 1 16 may face air-guiding channels formed within the aerosol generating device. The size of the air inlet holes 1 16 as well as airflow channels formed on a wick surface define a resistance to draw of the cartridge 102, as it will be explained in further detail below.
Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the outer shell. The upper body 104 has a central nozzle 118 extending along the cartridge axis X and an outer wall 120 formed radially around the outer surface of the central nozzle 1 18. The central nozzle 1 18 has an aerosol receiving end 122 and an opening which is the air outlet 108 of the cartridge 102. The wall of the central nozzle 1 18 is tapered, where the cross-sectional area of the nozzle 118 increases from the receiving end 122 to the air outlet 108.
The outer wall 120 has a thickness of, for example, about 0,2 millimetres. The upper body 104 can be advantageously made from a single piece or disc of aluminium that is punched and drawn for example in a multistage process. The receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 118 and the edge of the outer wall 120 is shaped to a press-fit edge 124 for connection with the end cover 106.
The end cover 106 also has a nozzle 126, which may be plugged and/or used for another purpose such as a push-fit or alignment connection with the aerosol generating device. The end cover 106 has an outer wall 128 radially around the nozzle 126, and the air inlet holes 1 16 described above are drilled into the end cover outer wall 128. The end cover nozzle 126 is also tapered such that the cross-sectional area of the nozzle 126 decreases from the bottom surface of the end cover 106 to the top end 130 of the end cover nozzle 126, which connects to the receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 118 of the upper body 104. The smaller cross-sectional area where the central nozzle 1 18 connects with the end cover nozzle 126 allows for a higher speed of delivery of aerosol into the central nozzle 118, and the widening cross-sectional area of the central nozzle 1 18 retards the speed of delivery of aerosol as it travels through the central nozzle 1 18 to a user, which allows the aerosol to cool.
Similar to the upper body 104, the end cover 106 is for example also made from a single piece or disc of aluminium that is punched and drawn in a multistage process. The top end 130 of the end cover nozzle 126 and the edge of the outer wall 128 are shaped to a press-fit edge 132 for connection with the upper body 104.
Aerosol delivery holes 134 are provided in the end cover nozzle 126 to provide an airflow path from the air inlet holes 1 16 to the aerosol delivery holes 134 through the wick as it will be explained in further detail below. It should therefore be understood that, in use, outside air enters the cartridge 102 through the air inlet holes 1 16, picks up generated aerosol as it passes through the wick, and the air and aerosol is delivered through the aerosol delivery holes 134 to the end cover nozzle 126 and then, to the receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 1 18 of the upper body 104 for further delivery to the air outlet 108 and user inhalation. The end cover nozzle 126 and the central nozzle 1 18 form thus an airflow path extending along the cartridge axis X until the user’s mouth.
The bottom surface of the end cover 106 has holes 110 that are cut out in a shape to correspond with the heater 1 12 of the aerosol generating device. This is to allow the heater 112 or several heating elements composing the heater 1 12 to pass through the bottom surface of the end cover 106 and press against the interface element of the wick assembly of the cartridge 102.
Figures 3 and 4 shows a cross-sectional views of cartridge 102 having the upper body 104 and the lower end cover 106 connected using a push-fit or press-fit connection. The press-fit edge 124 of the upper body 104 interlocks with the press-fit edge 132 of the end cover 106, and the top end 130 of the end cover nozzle 126 is pushed into and fitted within the receiving end 122 of the upper body central nozzle 1 18. The receiving end 122 of the central nozzle 1 18 also flares outwardly, which along with the press-fit edge 124 of the upper body 104 act as a stop for a wick assembly 136 of the cartridge 102.
The wick assembly 136 is positioned in the end cover 106 in the space radially around the end cover nozzle 126, between the outer surface of the end cover nozzle 126 and the inner surface of the outer wall 128 of the end cover 106. The outer surface of the central nozzle 1 18, the inner surface of the outer wall 120 of the upper body 104 and the top surface of the wick assembly 136 together form a reservoir 138 in which a liquid vaporizable material can be stored inside the consumable cartridge 102. The internal surfaces of the upper body 104 and end cover 106 can for example be coated with a ceramic or polymer coating.
As seen more clearly in the exploded view of Figure 4, the wick assembly 136 includes a wick 140 made for example of ceramic(s) that is surrounded by an upper seal cap 142 over its top surface, a membrane 144 around its side walls and an interface element 146 on its lower surface. The upper seal cap 142 is made for example of silicone and has openings 148 to allow vaporizable material to flow out of the liquid reservoir 138 into the wick 140. It should be appreciated that, when constructed, the vaporizable material can only flow out of the liquid reservoir 138 through the openings 148 in the upper seal cap 142 into the wick 140. The top surface of the wick 140 is thus called absorbing surface 149. The upper seal cap 142 extends over the top surface of the wick 140 to the upper end of the sides of the wick 140 (which include the surfaces of the wick 140 adjacent to both the end cover outer wall 128 and the end cover nozzle 126) to ensure any leakage of vaporizable material away from the openings 148 is prevented. The interfacing surfaces of the upper seal cap 142 and the wick 140 along the sides of the wick 140 can for example be ridged respectively to provide a secure fit of the upper seal cap 142 over the wick 140.
The membrane 144 of the wick assembly 136 provided around the side surfaces of the wick 140 (which include the surfaces of the wick 140 adjacent to both the end cover outer wall 128 and the end cover nozzle 126) is for example a polymer membrane such as polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon). The membrane 144 is air-permeable, and optionally may further include additional holes to improve the distribution air through the wick 140. The wick 140 and the membrane 144 are also shaped to allow a gap between the membrane and the outer wall 128 of the end cover 106 and/or the end cover nozzle 126 for improved airflow through the wick 140. The interface element 146 is an impermeable layer that covers the bottom surface of the wick 140 to prevent liquid from leaking out of the wick 140 through the holes 1 10 in the end cover 106. The interface element 146 extends across the bottom surface of the wick 140 to the lower end of the sides of the wick 140 (which include the surfaces of the wick 140 adjacent to both the end cover outer wall 128 and the end cover nozzle 126) to prevent leakage.
The outer surface (i.e. the lower surface) of the interface element 146 is in contact with the heater 112 of the aerosol generating device in use and transmits heat from the heater 112 to the wick 140 that sits on the inner surface of the interface element 146 in the wick assembly 136. The bottom surface of the wick 146 is thus called vaporizing surface 151 . A thermally insulating seal (not shown), such as a silicone sealant, can be used to glue the interface element 146 to the bottom surface of the end cover 106, which prevents or minimises heat from being conducted into the aluminium end cover 106.
The wick 140 has a generally cylindrical shape extending along the cartridge axis X and defining for example a circular cross-section. The wick 140 defines a centre hole 153 that extends around the end cover nozzle 126. The vaporizing surface 151 of the wick defines a plurality of airflow channels extending from the periphery of the wick 140 to the centre hole 153. Particularly, these airflow channels are designed to guide through the vaporizing surface 151 airflow from the air inlet holes 116 arranged in the side of the end cover 106 to the aerosol delivery holes 134 arranged in the end cover nozzle 126. Particularly, each airflow channel opens on one hand to a lateral surface of the wick 140 extending between its absorbing surface 149 and its vaporizing surface 151 , and on the other hand, to the centre hole 153. When the vaporizing surface 151 is heated by the interface element 146, airflow passing through these airflow channels is mixed with vaporized vaporizable material and then, delivered to the user through the end cover nozzle 126 and the central nozzle 118. These airflow channels can be realized according to different embodiments of the invention which now will be explained in reference to Figures 5 to 9.
FIRST EMBODIMENT
Figure 5 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 210 are formed according to a first embodiment of the invention. According to this embodiment, each airflow channel 210 extends between a start point and an end point according to a direction which is inclined in respect with the corresponding rectilinear radial direction at the start point. The inclination angle can for example be comprised between 1 ° and 90°, advantageously between 5° and 45°, and preferably between 7° and 35°. The end points of all of the airflow channels 210 form thus a circle extending around the centre hole 153. Thus, when the airflows delivered by the airflow channels 210 arrive into the centre hole 153, a cyclonic flow is formed.
Additionally, in the example of Figure 5, each airflow channel 210 is rectilinear and forms a constant shape in its cross-section. In the example of Figure 5, this cross-section is rectangular. The depth of each airflow channel 210 is also constant and forms for example at least 30%, advantageously 40% and preferably 50%, of the total thickness of the wick 140. In a general case, the depth of each airflow channel 210 can correspond to the height of the membrane 144 measured according to the cartridge axis X. The length of the airflow channels 210 is variable based on their position on the vaporizing surface 151. In a nonshown embodiment, each airflow channel 210 can also be curvilinear.
SECOND EMBODIMENT
Figure 6 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 310 are formed according to a second embodiment of the invention.
According to this embodiment, each airflow channel 310 extends between a start point and an end point according to a radial direction which is, in the example of Figure 6, curvilinear. According to this embodiment, the airflow from each airflow channel 310 exits this airflow channel according to a direction perpendicular to the circle delimiting the centre hole 153. This leads to a laminar flow at the centre.
The shape of the cross-section of each airflow channel 310 can be constant (rectangular for example) but the dimensions can be variable. For example, each airflow channel 310 can be slightly narrowing from its start point to its end point. According to another embodiment, the cross-section of each airflow channel 310 presents constant dimensions. Finally, the depth of each airflow channel 130 can be similar to one explained in relation with the first embodiment.
THIRD EMBODIMENT Figure 7 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 410 are formed according to a third embodiment of the invention.
This embodiment is similar to the second embodiment. Particularly, in this case, each airflow channel 410 extends between a start point and an end point according to a curvilinear radial direction. However, in this case, each airflow channel 410 forms in its cross-section a trapezoidal shape where the distance between the lateral walls increases while approaching the inside of the wick 140 according to the cartridge axis X. In other words, in this case, the airflow channels 410 present a reduced width at the vaporizing surface 151 which is broadened at the bottom of the channels 410.
This cross-sectional shape of the channels 410 leads to dense strong vape with a higher draw resistance in comparison with the previous embodiment.
FOURTH EMBODIMENT
Figure 8 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 510 are formed according to a forth embodiment of the invention.
This embodiment is similar to the third embodiment. Particularly, in this case, each airflow channel 510 forms a trapezoidal shape in each cross-section. However, in this case, the distance between the lateral walls of each airflow channel 510 decreases while approaching the inside of the wick 140 according to the cartridge axis X. In other words, in this case, the airflow channels 510 present an enlarged width at the vaporizing surface 151 which is narrowed at the bottom of the channels 510. Additionally, in this case, each airflow channel 510 can extend to a rectilinear radial direction.
In comparison with the previous embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the airflow channels 510 according to this embodiment leads on one hand, to saving electrical energy from the battery because of a smaller contact area with the interface element 146 but on the other hand delivering less dense vapour and lower draw resistance.
FIFTH EMBODIMENT Figure 9 shows the vaporizing surface 151 of the wick 140 where the airflow channels 610 are formed according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.
This embodiment is similar to the fourth embodiment. Particularly, in this case, each airflow channel 610 forms a trapezoidal shape in each cross-section. In comparison with the previous embodiment, the width of each airflow channel 610 is reduced at the vaporizing surface 151 as well at the bottom of each channel so as to form an almost triangular cross- sectional shape. Additionally, according to this embodiment, each airflow channel 610 can extend according to a slightly curvilinear radial direction.
In comparison with the third and the forth embodiments, this cross-sectional shape of the channels may lead to moderate draw resistance while presenting an intermediate power consumption.
OTHER EMBODIMENTS
Other embodiments corresponding to different combinations of the above- mentioned features are also possible. Additionally, in some embodiments, it is possible to combine different type of airflow channels on a same vaporizing surface. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the airflow channels can be arranged in an irregular way and/or the vaporizing surface can form a non-circular shape, for example an oval, a square or a triangular shape.

Claims

1. A cartridge (102) configured to operate with an aerosol generating device and comprising:
- a reservoir (138) for storing a liquid vaporizable material;
- a wick (140) having substantially cylindrical shape extending along a cartridge axis (X) and defining a centre hole (153);
- an airflow path (118, 126) extending along the cartridge axis (X) through the centre hole (153) of the wick (140); wherein the wick (140) comprises an absorbing surface (149) designed to be contact with the liquid vaporizable material and a vaporizing surface (151) extending transversally to the cartridge axis (X) and intended to be heated by a heating surface; wherein the vaporizing surface (151 ) has a substantially circular shape and forms a plurality of airflow channels (210; 310; 410; 510; 610) extending from a periphery to the centre hole (153) of the wick (140) and configured to conduct airflows from the outside of the cartridge (102) to the airflow path (118, 126).
2. The cartridge (102) according to claim 1 , wherein each airflow channel (210; 310; 410; 510; 610) is formed by a groove formed at the vaporizing surface (151 ).
3. The cartridge (102) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each airflow channel (310; 410; 510; 610) extends according to a radial direction.
4. The cartridge (102) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each airflow channel (210) extends according to a direction inclined in respect with a radial direction.
5. The cartridge (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each airflow channel (210; 510) is rectilinear.
6. The cartridge (102) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each airflow channel (310; 410; 610) is curved.
7. The cartridge (102) according to claim 6, wherein all of the airflow channels (310; 410; 610) are curved in the same direction.
8. The cartridge (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance between lateral walls delimiting each airflow channel (410; 510; 610) varies according to the cartridge axis (X).
9. The cartridge (102) according to claim 8, wherein said distance increases or decreases while approaching the inside of the wick according to the cartridge axis (X).
10. The cartridge (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the airflow channels (210; 310; 410; 510; 610) are equispaced according to a circumferential direction corresponding to the periphery of the vaporizing surface (151 ); preferably, the airflow channels (310; 410; 510; 610) are equispaced according to each circumferential direction extending around the central hole.
11. The cartridge (102) according to claim any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an interface element (146) forming said heating surface and comprising an opposite surface designed to be in direct contact with an external heater (1 12).
12. The cartridge (102) according to claim any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbing surface (149) is opposite to the vaporizing surface (151 ), the wick (140) further comprising a lateral surface extending between the vaporizing surface and the absorbing surface.
13. The cartridge (102) according to claim 12, wherein each airflow channel (210; 310; 410; 510; 610) opens to a lower part of the lateral surface of the wick (140) and is in fluid communication with air inlet holes (116) formed on a cover (106) of the cartridge (102).
14. The cartridge (102) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein an upper part of the lateral surface comprises a seal cap (142) sealing the reservoir (138).
15. An aerosol generating system, comprising:
- a cartridge (102) according to any one of the preceding claims;
- an aerosol generating device configured to operate with said cartridge (102).
PCT/EP2023/075339 2022-09-14 2023-09-14 Cartridge comprising a wick forming airflow channels and associated aerosol generating system WO2024056819A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP22195659.2 2022-09-14
EP22195659 2022-09-14

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2024056819A1 true WO2024056819A1 (en) 2024-03-21

Family

ID=83318834

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2023/075339 WO2024056819A1 (en) 2022-09-14 2023-09-14 Cartridge comprising a wick forming airflow channels and associated aerosol generating system

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2024056819A1 (en)

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2561867A (en) * 2017-04-25 2018-10-31 Nerudia Ltd Aerosol delivery system
WO2019206900A1 (en) * 2018-04-24 2019-10-31 Philip Morris Products S.A. Inductive heating assembly for aerosol generation comprising a susceptor element and a liquid retention element
WO2021028395A1 (en) * 2019-08-12 2021-02-18 Jt International Sa A cartridge for an electronic cigarette, an electronic cigarette, and an assembly method for an electronic cigarette
WO2021156238A1 (en) * 2020-02-05 2021-08-12 Jt International Sa A cartridge for a vapour generating device

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2561867A (en) * 2017-04-25 2018-10-31 Nerudia Ltd Aerosol delivery system
WO2019206900A1 (en) * 2018-04-24 2019-10-31 Philip Morris Products S.A. Inductive heating assembly for aerosol generation comprising a susceptor element and a liquid retention element
WO2021028395A1 (en) * 2019-08-12 2021-02-18 Jt International Sa A cartridge for an electronic cigarette, an electronic cigarette, and an assembly method for an electronic cigarette
WO2021156238A1 (en) * 2020-02-05 2021-08-12 Jt International Sa A cartridge for a vapour generating device

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
JP7321228B2 (en) An aerosol generating system that uses the venturi effect to deliver a substrate to a heater element
JP7381612B2 (en) Aerosol generator with separable venturi elements
JP2021532767A (en) Electronic cigarettes and capsules for electronic cigarettes
JP2023133447A (en) Aerosol-generating system comprising venturi element
CN113115989A (en) Seasoning component and electronic atomization device
WO2022121806A1 (en) Electronic atomization device
JP7327830B2 (en) Vaporizer and aerosol generator containing same
US11432582B2 (en) Electronic cigarette
JP2023020970A (en) Flavoring component and electronic atomization device
WO2024056819A1 (en) Cartridge comprising a wick forming airflow channels and associated aerosol generating system
CN111655058B (en) Aerosol generating article and aerosol generating system
KR102360137B1 (en) Cartridge and Aerosol generating device comprising thereof
EP4337042A1 (en) Aerosol generating device comprising a cup-shaped heating chamber defining an open end and a sealed end
CN114766727A (en) Atomizing device and aerosol-generating apparatus
CN114745982A (en) Aerosol generating device with baffle
CN218831960U (en) Atomizer and electronic atomization device
CN211048398U (en) Electronic cigarette atomizer and electronic cigarette
CN220000745U (en) Filter assembly and aerosol-generating device
WO2024126562A1 (en) Cartridge comprising a heat conducting layer and associated aerosol generating system
EP4226784A1 (en) Aerosol delivering system comprising a hydrophobic material, and associated cartridge and aerosol generating assembly
WO2022263466A1 (en) Aerosol generating article comprising a tubular support
CN219353073U (en) Atomizer, suction nozzle assembly for electronic atomization device and electronic atomization device
KR102450716B1 (en) Wick and vaporizer including the same
RU2791078C1 (en) Aerosol generating device with separable venturi element and aerosol generating system
US20230000144A1 (en) Aerosol-generating device with piercing assembly

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 23772200

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1