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  • 专利说明
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    • 专利摘要:
    AEROSOL GENERATION SYSTEM WITH CONDENSED MATERIAL LEAKAGE PREVENTION. The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system for heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The system comprises an aerosol forming chamber (127); a leak prevention device (305, 307) configured to prevent or reduce the leakage of liquid aerosol condensate from the aerosol generation system. The leak prevention device may comprise one or more of: at least one cavity in a wall of the aerosol-forming chamber for collecting droplets of the condensed liquid aerosol-forming substrate; at least one element hooked to collect droplets of the condensed liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an impact element to interrupt the flow of air in the aerosol forming chamber in order to collect liquid droplets; and a closure element for substantially sealing the aerosol forming chamber when the aerosol generating system is not in use.
    公开号:BR112013013269B1
    申请号:R112013013269-8
    申请日:2011-12-02
    公开日:2021-03-02
    发明作者:Michel THORENS；Jean-Marc Flick；Olivier Yves Cochand；Flavien Dubief
    申请人:Philip Morris Products S.A.；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    [0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generation system. In particular, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating system in which the aerosol-forming substrate is liquid.
    [0002] WO-A-2009/132793 describes an electrically heated smoking system. A liquid is stored in a liquid storage part, and a capillary wick has a first end that extends into the liquid storage part to come into contact with the liquid inside, and a second end that extends to out of the liquid storage part. A heating element heats the second end of the capillary wick. The heating element is in the form of an electric heating element wound in a spiral in electrical connection with a power supply, and surrounding the second end of the capillary wick. In use, the heating element can be activated by the user to turn on the power supply. The suction in a nozzle by the user causes the air to be drawn into the electrically heated smoking system through the capillary wick and the heating element and, subsequently, into the user's mouth.
    [0003] The prior art aerosol generation systems, including the electrically operated smoking system mentioned above, have several advantages, but there is still an opportunity to improve the design.
    [0004] In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, an aerosol generating system is provided for heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the system comprising: an aerosol-forming chamber and a leak prevention device configured to prevent or reduce the leakage of condensed liquid aerosol material from the aerosol generation system.
    [0005] The aerosol generation system is arranged to evaporate the aerosol-forming substrate to form a vapor, which condenses in the aerosol-forming chamber to form the aerosol. In this way, the aerosol forming chamber simply assists or facilitates the generation of the aerosol. The aerosol generating system can include the aerosol-forming substrate or can be adapted to receive the aerosol-forming substrate. As known to those skilled in the art. An aerosol is a suspension of solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas, such as air.
    [0006] An advantage of the invention is that the leakage of condensed liquid aerosol material from the aerosol generating system is prevented or at least substantially reduced. Condensed liquid (liquid condensate) can form due to a change in temperature, for example, a sudden drop in temperature. Alternatively or in addition, the liquid condensate can accumulate in cavities, grooves, corners or other parts of the aerosol generation system where there is a reduced air flow. The rate of condensation is affected by the vapor pressure of the aerosol-forming substrate, the temperature gradient between the vapor and the housing or wall of the aerosol generation system, and other factors, for example, air flow and turbulence. Minimizing, or preferably preventing, leakage of liquid aerosol condensate is important to avoid wasting the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Additionally, if the liquid leaks out of the aerosol generation system, it can cause inconvenience to the user. For example, the aerosol generation system can get wet or sticky.
    [0007] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate preferably has physical properties, for example, boiling point and vapor pressure, suitable for use in the aerosol generation system. If the boiling point is too high, it may not be possible to evaporate the liquid, but if the boiling point is too low, the liquid can evaporate very readily. The liquid preferably comprises a tobacco containing material comprising volatile tobacco flavored compounds which are released from the liquid upon heating. Alternatively, or in addition, the liquid may comprise a tobacco-free material. The liquid can include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, nicotine solutions and natural or artificial flavorings. Preferably, the liquid further comprises an aerosol former. Examples of suitable aerosol builders are glycerin and propylene glycol.
    [0008] In a first embodiment of the invention, the aerosol prevention device comprises at least one cavity in a wall of the aerosol forming chamber, to collect the liquid condensate formed from the aerosol forming substrate.
    [0009] Providing at least one cavity in a wall of the aerosol forming chamber allows droplets of condensed material from the liquid to be collected. Preferably, the at least one cavity interrupts the flow path for droplets of condensed liquid that may otherwise leak out of the aerosol generating system. In this way, the leakage of condensed liquid from the aerosol generation system is prevented or at least reduced. The at least one cavity can be of any size or shape and can be located at any suitable location in the aerosol forming chamber. Preferably, at least one cavity is closed to an outlet end of the aerosol generating system. If the aerosol generating system includes a liquid storage part or a capillary wick or both a liquid storage part and a capillary wick, the at least one cavity may comprise a return path to return the condensed liquid droplets to the liquid storage part or capillary wick.
    [00010] In the first embodiment of the invention, the at least one cavity can contain capillary material. The supply of capillary material in at least one cavity minimizes the free liquid. This reduces the likelihood that the condensed liquid will leak from the aerosol generation system. The capillary material can comprise any preferred material or combination of materials that can retain the collected liquid. The particular preferred material or materials will depend on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, ceramic or graphite based materials, in the form of sintered fibers or powders, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers, or ceramic. More preferably, the capillary material substantially fills the cavities in order to minimize the free liquid.
    [00011] If the aerosol generation system includes a liquid storage part or a capillary wick or both a liquid storage part and a capillary wick, the capillary material can provide a return path to return the condensed liquid droplets for the liquid storage part or capillary wick. The capillary material may be in contact with the capillary wick. The capillary material in at least one cavity and the capillary wick may comprise the same or different materials.
    [00012] In a second embodiment of the invention, the leak prevention device comprises at least one element hooked to collect the droplets of liquid condensed material formed from the aerosol-forming substrate.
    [00013] The provision of a hooked element allows the condensed droplets of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be collected. Preferably, the at least one hooked element interrupts the flow path for the condensed liquid droplets. In this way, the leakage of liquid condensed material from the aerosol generation system is prevented. The at least one hooked element can be of any suitable size and shape and can be located in any suitable location. For example, the hooked element can be positioned on a wall of the aerosol forming chamber.
    [00014] In the second embodiment of the invention, the at least one hooked element can comprise a recycling path to recycle the droplets collected from the liquid condensed material. The recycling path can comprise an angled part of the hooked element. If the aerosol generation system includes a liquid storage part or a capillary wick or both a liquid storage part and a capillary wick, the recycling path can return the condensed liquid droplets to the liquid storage part or capillary wick. The trapping and transport of condensed droplets can be improved by surface properties (eg, but not limited to, surface profile, surface roughness) or material (eg, but not limited to, use of a hydrophobic or hydrophilic material ) of an inner wall of the aerosol generating system, for example, the inner wall of the aerosol forming chamber.
    [00015] In the second embodiment of the invention, the at least one hooked element includes capillary material. The capillary material can be supplied in part or in the entire collection surface of the hooked element. The supply of capillary material in at least one hooked element minimizes the free liquid. This reduces the likelihood that the condensing liquid will leak from the aerosol generation system. The capillary material can comprise any suitable material or combination of materials that can retain the collected liquid. The particular preferred material or materials will depend on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, ceramic or graphite based materials in the form of sintered fibers or powders, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or polyolefin unit, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [00016] If the hooked element includes a recycling path, preferably the recycling path includes the capillary material. This improves the recycling of condensed liquid droplets. If the aerosol generating system includes a liquid storage part or a capillary wick or both a liquid storage part and a capillary wick, the capillary material can return the condensed liquid droplets to the liquid storage part or wick capillary. The capillary material may be in contact with the capillary wick. The capillary material is at least one hooked element and the capillary wick may comprise the same or different materials.
    [00017] In a third embodiment of the invention, the leak prevention device comprises an impact element to disrupt the air flow in the aerosol-forming layer in order to collect the liquid droplets being formed from the air-forming substrate. aerosol.
    [00018] The provision of an impact element that disrupts the air flow allows the droplets of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be collected. This is because, as the air flow is disrupted, some liquid droplets cannot be transported in the air flow and, instead, impact the impact element. The liquid droplets collected tend to be the largest liquid droplets. The liquid droplets collected cannot leak out of the aerosol generation system. In this way, the leakage of liquid condensate from the aerosol generation system is prevented. The impact element can be of any suitable size and shape and can be located at any point downstream of the vapor formation.
    [00019] In the third embodiment of the invention, the impact element may include capillary material. The capillary material is preferably supplied in part or all of the surface upstream of the impact element. The capillary material can be supplied on other surfaces of the impact element. The provision of capillary material on the collection surface of the impact element minimizes the free liquid. This reduces the likelihood that liquid condensate will leak from the aerosol generation system. The capillary material can comprise any suitable material or combination of materials that can retain the collected liquid. The preferred material or materials in particular will depend on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, ceramic or graphite based materials in the form of sintered fibers or powders, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [00020] If the aerosol generating system includes a liquid storage part or a capillary wick or both a liquid storage part and a capillary wick, the capillary material in the impact element may return liquid droplets to the part of storage of liquid or capillary wick. The capillary material in the impact element may be in contact with the capillary wick. The capillary material in the impact member and the capillary wick may comprise the same or different materials.
    [00021] In a fourth embodiment of the invention, the leak prevention device comprises a closure element to substantially seal the aerosol forming chamber when the aerosol generating system is not in use.
    [00022] The provision of a closure element that substantially seals the aerosol-forming layer when the aerosol generation system is not in use substantially prevents any condensed liquid droplets from leaking out of the aerosol generation system when it is not in use. It should be understood that the closure element only needs to substantially seal the outlet of the aerosol forming chamber. The entrance of the aerosol forming chamber can remain open, even when the closing element is in the closed position.
    [00023] The closure element can be of any suitable size and shape. The closure element can be manually operable by a user. Alternatively, the closure element can be electrically operable, at the user's instruction or automatically.
    [00024] The closure element may include capillary material. The capillary material can be supplied in part or all of the surface upstream of the closure element. The capillary material will retain any liquid that collects in the closure element. This reduces the likelihood that the condensed liquid will leak from the aerosol generation system. The capillary material can comprise any suitable material or combination of materials that can retain the collected liquid. The particular preferred material or materials will depend on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, ceramic or graphite based materials in the form of sintered fibers or powders, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [00025] If the aerosol generating system includes a liquid storage part or a capillary wick or both a liquid storage part and a capillary wick, the capillary material in the closure element may return the liquid droplets to the part for storage of liquid or capillary wick. The capillary material in the closure element may be in contact with the capillary wick when the aerosol generation system is not in use. The capillary material in the closure element and the capillary wick may comprise the same or different materials.
    [00026] The aerosol generating system may additionally comprise a liquid storage part for the storage of liquid aerosol forming substrate.
    [00027] An advantage of providing a liquid storage part is that the liquid in the liquid storage part is protected against ambient air (since air cannot generally enter the liquid storage part) and in some cases light modes, so that the risk of liquid degradation is significantly reduced. In addition, a certain level of hygiene can be maintained. The liquid storage part may not be refillable. Thus, when the liquid in the liquid storage part has been used up, the aerosol generation system is replaced. Alternatively, the liquid storage part can be refilled. In that case, the aerosol generation system can be replaced after a specified number of refills of the liquid storage part. Preferably, the liquid storage part is arranged to hold the liquid for a predetermined number of drinks.
    [00028] The aerosol generation system may additionally comprise a capillary wick to transport the liquid aerosol-forming substrate by capillary action.
    [00029] Preferably, the capillary wick is arranged to be in contact with the liquid in the liquid storage part. Preferably, the capillary wick extends into the liquid storage part. In this case, in use, the liquid is transferred from the liquid storage part by the capillary action on the capillary wick. In one embodiment, the liquid at one end of the capillary wick is evaporated to form a super-saturated vapor. Super saturated steam is mixed with and transported in the air stream. During the flow, the vapor condenses to form the aerosol and the aerosol is transported towards a user's mouth. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate has physical properties, including surface tension and viscosity, which allow the liquid to be transported through the capillary wick by capillary action.
    [00030] The capillary wick may have a fibrous or spongy structure. The capillary wick preferably comprises a bundle of capillaries. For example, the capillary wick may comprise a plurality of fibers or threads or other fine orifice tubes. The fibers or threads can generally be aligned in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generation system. Alternatively, the capillary wick may comprise sponge or foam-like material within a rod shape. The rod shape can extend along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generation system. The wick structure forms a plurality of holes or small tubes, through which the liquid can be transported by capillary action. The capillary wick can comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials are capillary materials, for example, a sponge or foam material, ceramic or graphite-based materials in the form of sintered fibers or powders, foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled fibers or extruded, such as cellulose acetate, polyester or joined polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon or ceramic fibers. The capillary wick can have any capillarity or adequate porosity in order to be used with different physical properties of the liquid. The liquid has physical properties including, but not limited to, viscosity, surface tension, density, thermal conductivity, boiling point and vapor pressure, which allow the liquid to be transported through the capillary device by capillary action.
    [00031] The aerosol generation system can be electrically operated. The electrically operated aerosol generation system may additionally comprise an electric heater to heat the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.
    [00032] The electric heater can comprise a single heating element. Alternatively, the electric heater may comprise more than one heating element, for example, two, or three, or four, or five, or six or more heating elements. The heating element or heating elements can be arranged appropriately in order to more efficiently heat the aerosol forming substrate.
    [00033] The at least one electrical heating element preferably comprises an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors such as coated ceramics, electrically "conductive" ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicides), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys and composite materials made of a material ceramic and a metallic material. Such composite materials may comprise coated or uncoated ceramics. Examples of suitable coated ceramics include coated silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum and metals of the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, Constantan, alloys containing nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese and iron, and super alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal®, iron and aluminum based alloys and ferro-manganese-aluminum alloys. Timetal® is a registered trademark of Titanium Metals Corporation, 1999 Broadway Suite 4300, Denver, Colorado. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material can optionally be embedded in, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and the necessary external physiochemical properties. The heating element may comprise an etched metallic sheet insulated between two layers of an inert material. In that case, the inert material may comprise Kapton®, mica or polyimide foil. Kapton® is a registered trademark of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware, 19898, United States of America.
    [00034] Alternatively, the at least one electric heating element can comprise an infrared heating element, a photonic source or an inductive heating element.
    [00035] The at least one electric heating element can take any suitable shape. For example, the at least one electric heating element can take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the at least one electrical heating element can take the form of a wrap or substrate having different electroconductive parts, or an electrically resistive metal tube. The liquid storage part may incorporate a disposable heating element. Alternatively, one or more heating needles or rods that flow through the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may also be suitable. Alternatively, the at least one electric heating element may be a disc heater (end) or a combination of a disc heater with heating needles or rods. Alternatively, the at least one electrical heating element may comprise a sheet of flexible material. Other alternatives include a heating wire or filament, for example, a Ni-Cr, platinum, tungsten or alloy wire, or a heating plate. Optionally, the heating element can be deposited on or on a rigid transport material.
    [00036] The at least one electric heating element may comprise a heat deposit, or heat reservoir comprising a material capable of absorbing and storing heat and subsequently releasing heat as time to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. The heat deposit can be formed from any suitable material, such as a suitable metal or ceramic material. Preferably, the material has a high heating capacity (heat sensitive storage material) or is a material capable of absorbing and subsequently releasing heat through a reversible process, such as a high temperature phase change. Suitable heat-sensitive storage materials include silica gel, alumina, carbon, glass sheet, fiberglass, minerals, a metal or alloy such as aluminum, silver or lead, and a cellulose material such as paper. Other suitable materials that release heat through a reversible phase change include paraffin, sodium acetate, naphthalene wax, polyethylene oxide, metal, metal salt, mixture of eutectic salts or an alloy.
    [00037] The heat tank or heat reservoir can be arranged so that it is directly in contact with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and can transfer the stored heat directly to the substrate. Alternatively, the heat stored in the heat tank or heat reservoir can be transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate by means of a heat conductor, such as a metal tube.
    [00038] The at least one heating element can heat the aerosol-forming substrate by means of conduction. The heating element can be at least partially in contact with the substrate. Alternatively, the heat from the heating element can be conducted to the substrate by means of a heat conducting element.
    [00039] Alternatively, the at least one heating element can transfer heat to the incoming ambient air which is drawn through the aerosol generation system during use, which in turn heats the aerosol-forming substrate by convection . Ambient air can be heated before passing through the aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, the ambient air can first be drawn through the liquid substrate and then heated.
    [00040] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generation system comprises an electric heater, a capillary wick and a liquid storage part. In this embodiment, the capillary wick is preferably arranged to be in contact with the liquid in the liquid storage part. In use, the liquid is transferred from the liquid storage part towards the electric heater by the capillary action on the capillary wick. In one embodiment, the capillary wick has a first end and a second end, the first end extending into the liquid storage part to contact the liquid and the electric heater being arranged to heat the liquid at the second end. When the heater is activated, the liquid at the second end of the capillary wick is evaporated by the heater to form the super-saturated vapor. Super saturated steam is mixed with and transported in the air stream. During the flow, the vapor condenses to form the aerosol and the aerosol is transported towards a user's mouth.
    [00041] As discussed above, the capillary wick can comprise any suitable material. The capillary properties of the wick, combined with the properties of the liquid, ensure that the wick is always wet in the heating area. If the wick is dry, it can overheat, which can result in thermal degradation of the liquid.
    [00042] The capillary wick and the heater, and, optionally, the liquid storage part, can be removable from the aerosol generation system as a single component.
    [00043] The aerosol generation system can comprise at least one air inlet. The aerosol generation system can comprise at least one air outlet. The aerosol forming chamber is located between the air inlet and the air outlet in order to define an air flow path from the air inlet to the air outlet through the aerosol forming chamber, in order to transport the aerosol to the air outlet and into the user's mouth.
    [00044] The aerosol generation system can be electrically operated and can additionally comprise an electric power supply. The aerosol generating system may additionally comprise an electrical circuit assembly. In one embodiment, the electrical circuit assembly comprises a sensor to detect the air flow indicative of a user swallowing. In that case, preferably, the electrical circuit assembly is arranged to provide a pulse of electrical current to the electrical heater when the sensor senses a user swallowing. Preferably, the time period of the electric current pulse is predetermined, depending on the amount of liquid that is to be evaporated. The electrical circuit assembly is preferably programmable for this purpose. Alternatively, the electrical circuit assembly may comprise a manually operated switch for a user to initiate a drag. The time period of the electric current pulse is preferably predetermined depending on the amount of liquid that is to be evaporated. The electrical circuit assembly is preferably programmable for this purpose.
    [00045] Preferably, the aerosol generating system comprises a housing. Preferably, the housing is elongated. If the aerosol generating system includes a capillary wick, the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and the longitudinal axis of the housing can be substantially parallel. The housing may comprise a casing and a nozzle. In one embodiment, the housing includes a removable insert comprising the liquid storage part, the capillary wick and the heater. In this embodiment, these parts of the aerosol generation system can be removed from the housing as a single component. This can be useful for refilling or replacing the liquid storage part, for example.
    [00046] The housing can comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics that are suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, for example, polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is light and not fragile.
    [00047] Preferably, the aerosol generation system is portable. The aerosol generation system can be a smoking system and can be comparable in size to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The smoking system can have a total length between approximately 30 mm and approximately 150 mm. The smoking system can have an outside diameter between approximately 5 mm and approximately 30 mm.
    [00048] Preferably, the aerosol generating system is an electrically operated smoking system.
    [00049] Features described with respect to one aspect of the invention may be applicable to another aspect of the invention.
    [00050] The invention will be described further, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating system having a liquid storage part; Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end and an aerosol generation system similar to that illustrated in Figure 1; Figure 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system according to a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along the line IV-IV of Figure 3; Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an alternative aerosol generation system according to the first embodiment of the invention; Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the line VI-VI of Figure 5; Figure 7 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system according to a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 8 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system according to a third embodiment of the invention; and, Figure 9 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.
    [00051] Figure 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generation system having a liquid storage part. In Figure 1, the system is an electrically operated smoking system. The smoking system 100 of figure 1 comprises a housing 101 having a first end which is the nozzle end 103 and a second end which is the body end 105. At the body end, an electrical power supply is provided in the form of battery 107 and electrical circuit assembly in the form of hardware 109 and swallow detection system 111. At the nozzle end, a cartridge storage liquid part 113 containing liquid 115, a capillary wick 117 and a heater is provided 119. Note that the heater is only shown schematically in figure 1. In the illustrative embodiment shown in figure 1, one end of capillary wick 117 extends into cartridge 113 and the other end of capillary wick 117 is surrounded by heater 119. The heater is connected to the electrical circuit assembly via connections 121, which can pass along the outside of the cartridge 113 (not shown in figure 1). Housing 101 also includes an air inlet 123, an air outlet 125 at the nozzle end, and an aerosol forming chamber 127.
    [00052] In use, the operation is as follows. The liquid 115 is transported by capillary action from the cartridge 113 from the end of the wick 117 which extends into the cartridge to the other end of the wick which is surrounded by the heater 119. When a user pulls the aerosol generating system at the air outlet 125, the ambient air is drawn through the air inlet 123. In the arrangement illustrated in figure 1, the draft detection system 111 senses the draft and activates the heater 119. Battery 107 supplies electricity to the heater 119 to heat the end of the wick 117 surrounded by the heater. The liquid at that end of the wick 117 is evaporated by the heater 119 to create a super-saturated vapor. At that time, the liquid being evaporated is replaced by additional liquid moving along the wick 117 by the capillary action. (This is sometimes referred to as a "pumping action"). This created super-saturated vapor is mixed with and transported in the air flow from the air inlet 123. In the aerosol forming chamber 127, the vapor condenses to form an inhaled aerosol, which is transported towards the outlet 125 and into the user’s mouth.
    [00053] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, hardware 108 and swallow detection system 111 are preferably programmable. Hardware 109 and draft detection system 111 can be used to manage the operation of the aerosol generation system.
    [00054] Figure 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generation system according to the present invention. Many other examples are possible, however. The aerosol generation system simply needs to include the leak prevention device (to be described below with reference to figures 2 to 9) configured to prevent or reduce the leakage of liquid aerosol condensed material from the aerosol generation system. For example, the system does not need to be operated electrically. For example, the system does not have to be a smoking system. In addition, the system may not include a heater, in which case another device may be included to evaporate the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, a draft detection system does not need to be provided. Instead, the system can operate by manual activation, for example, the user operating a switch when a draft is given. For example, the general shape and size of the housing can be changed. In addition, the system may not include a capillary wick. In this case, the system may include another mechanism for distributing liquid for evaporation.
    [00055] However, in a preferred embodiment, the system includes a liquid storage part and a capillary wick for transporting the liquid from the liquid storage part. The capillary wick can be made from a variety of porous or capillary materials and preferably has a known predefined capillarity. Examples include ceramic or graphite based materials in the form of sintered fibers or powders. Wicks of different porosities can be used to accommodate different physical properties of the liquid such as viscosity and surface tension. The wick should be adequate so that the required amount of liquid can be distributed to the heater.
    [00056] As discussed above, according to the invention, the aerosol generation system includes leak prevention devices configured to prevent or reduce the leakage of condensed liquid from the aerosol generation system. A number of modalities of the invention, including the leak prevention device, will now be described with reference to Figures 2 to 9. The modalities are based on the example illustrated in Figure 1, although they are applicable to other modalities of the generation systems. aerosol. Note that Figure 1 and the following Figures 2 to 9 are schematic in nature. In particular, the illustrated components are not to scale individually or with respect to each other.
    [00057] Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system similar to that of Figure 1. Figure 2 illustrates only the nozzle end 103 including the aerosol forming chamber 127 and the air outlet. 125. Other components are not shown in Figure 2 for reasons of clarity.
    [00058] In Figure 2, the air flow is shown schematically by the arrows 201. It can be seen that the liquid droplets (shown schematically in 203) tend to condense on the internal walls of the aerosol forming chamber 127 , particularly in the direction of the air outlet 125. Such liquid droplets can be formed as vapor condensed material to form the aerosol. If the airflow does not carry all the droplets out of the outlet 125 and into the user's mouth, the droplets, particularly the larger droplets, can accumulate on the inner walls of the aerosol forming chamber 127, as illustrated in figure 2. Condensed droplets 203 may run out of outlet 125, causing the aerosol generating system to become wet or viscous. This will be an inconvenience to the user.
    [00059] Figure 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system according to a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along the line IV-IV of figure 3. Figure 3 illustrates the nozzle end 103 including the aerosol forming chamber 127 and the air outlet 125. Other components are not shown in Figure 3 for the sake of clarity. In Figure 3, the air flow is shown schematically by arrows 301 and liquid droplets 303 are shown accumulating on the inner walls of the aerosol forming chamber 127.
    [00060] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the internal walls of the aerosol-forming chamber 127 are provided with droplets or recesses for droplet collection 305, 307. The two cavities 305, 307 are provided on opposite sides of the outlet air 125. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the upper cavity 305 is in the form of a substantially cylindrical cavity. As seen in Figure 4, cavity 305 has a substantially circular cross section. Cavity 305 is a blind hole. That is, cavity 305 does not extend outside the aerosol generating system. Similarly, in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the lower cavity 307 is also in the form of a substantially cylindrical cavity with a substantially circular cross section. Cavity 307 is also a blind hole, not extending out of the aerosol generation system.
    [00061] Cavities 305, 307 act as a leak prevention device. They collect the droplets of liquid condensed material 303 that have accumulated on the internal walls of the aerosol-forming chamber 127. The cavities 305, 307 are positioned so as to interrupt the flow path for the liquid droplets 303 running towards the outlet of air. In this way, liquid droplets are prevented from leaking out of the air outlet of the aerosol generation system.
    [00062] In Figures 3 and 4, the cavities are substantially cylindrical with a substantially circular cross section. However, the cavities can have any suitable cross-section or shape. The cavities can have any suitable diameter. In figures 3 and 4, the cross-sectional dimension of the aerosol generating system at the air outlet end is illustrated as W and the cross-sectional dimension of the air outlet itself is illustrated as w. W and w can have appropriate values. For example, W can be between 5 mm and 30 mm, which is the typical range for the diameter of cigarettes and cigars. the transverse width w of the air outlet can be determined by several factors. If w is relatively small (for example, 1 to 2 mm), the passage of aerosol through the air outlet is concentrated (that is, it has increased density) so that condensation can be increased. This can increase the droplet or particle size of the aerosol. In addition, a relatively small w increases the resistance to withdrawal (RTD) and can cause increased turbulence of the air flow in the housing. This will also affect the aerosol particle size. On the other hand, a relatively large transverse width w increases the diffusion angle of the aerosol. This can also affect the properties of the aerosol. However, a relatively large w can also help prevent condensation from leaking. The transverse widths w and W can vary in proportion to each other. For example, a small W with a relatively large w or a large W with a relatively small w can affect the properties of the aerosol. Preferably, the transverse width w of the air outlet is between 1 mm and 5 mm.
    [00063] In Figures 3 and 4, the cavities 305, 307 are illustrated with a transverse dimension x. The dimension x is preferably between 0.5 mm and 1 mm or between 0.5 mm and 1 mm. This size has been considered advantageous since it is large enough to collect a sufficient amount of liquid, but small enough to trap the liquid in the cavity by capillary action, even if the aerosol generating system is rotated or aligned vertically. The x dimension can be chosen depending on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate and does not need to be the same for two cavities.
    [00064] The cavities can also be of any suitable length l. For example, the length 1 of the cavities can be 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm or even as much as 1 cm. Length 1 can be chosen so that the wells can collect a sufficient amount of liquid. Length 1 can be chosen depending on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. The length of the two cavities does not have to be the same. The cavities may not be the same length l across their entire cross section. For example, the cavities can be symmetrical.
    [00065] In Figures 3 and 4, cavities 305, 307 are illustrated positioned at a transverse distance from outside the aerosol generation system. The distance a can be chosen to have any value and may not be the same for both cavities. Similarly, cavities 305, 307 are illustrated positioned at a transverse distance b from the air outlet 125 of the aerosol generating system. The distance b can be chosen to have any value and may not be the same for both cavities. All dimensions can be chosen as desired, depending, for example, on the desired size for the aerosol generation system and the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate.
    [00066] In Figures 3 and 4, the cavities are located close to the air outlet. This may be preferable, since this location was considered more efficient for collecting liquid droplets. This is because the airflow in the aerosol generation system may have a tendency to push the liquid droplets towards the air outlet. However, the cavities can be located elsewhere in the aerosol forming chamber. In Figures 3 and 4, two cavities are provided, one on each side of the air outlet. However, any suitable number of wells, including a single well, can be provided. For example, more than two cavities can be provided and these can be arranged substantially in a circle around, for example, concentric with, the air outlet 125. The cavities can be connected to each other. The cavities can also be connected to the capillary wick, for example, through one or more return passages. This will allow the collection of liquid in the cavities to be recycled. Other variations are possible.
    [00067] Figure 5 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an alternative aerosol generation system according to the first embodiment of the invention. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along line VI-VI of Figure 5. Figure 5 illustrates the nozzle end 103 including the aerosol forming chamber 127 and the air outlet 125. Other components are not shown in Figure 5 for the sake of clarity. In Figure 5, the air flow is shown schematically by the arrows 501 and liquid droplets 503 are shown accumulating on the internal walls of the aerosol forming chamber 127.
    [00068] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the internal walls of the aerosol forming chamber are provided with a single cavity or recess for collecting droplets 505. As noted in figure 6, cavity 505 is in the form of a groove substantially annular surrounding air outlet 125. As with cavities 305 and 307 in Figures 3 and 4, cavity 505 is a blind cavity. That is, cavity 505 does not extend outside the aerosol generation system.
    [00069] Cavity 505 acts as a leak prevention device. Cavity 505 collects droplets of liquid condensed material 503 that have accumulated on the inner walls of the aerosol forming chamber 127. Cavity 505 is positioned to interrupt the flow path for liquid droplets 503 running in the direction of the air outlet. In this way, liquid droplets are prevented from leaking out of the air outlet of the aerosol generation system.
    [00070] In Figures 5 and 6, the cavity is in the form of a circular annular groove. However, the cavity can have any suitable cross-section or shape. As in Figures 3 and 4, in Figures 5 and 6, the cross-sectional dimension of the aerosol generating system at the air outlet end is illustrated as W and the cross-sectional dimension of the air outlet itself is illustrated as w. W and w can have any suitable values as discussed above. For example, W can be between 5 mm and 30 mm and w can be between 1 mm and 5 mm.
    [00071] In Figures 5 and 6, the cavity 505 is illustrated with an annular cross-section width y. The width y is the difference between the radius of the outer circle forming the ring and the radius of the inner circle forming the ring. The y dimension is preferably 0.5 mm or 1 mm or between 0.5 mm and 1 mm. This size was considered advantageous since it is large enough to collect a sufficient amount of liquid, but small enough to trap the liquid in the cavity by capillary action, even if the aerosol generation system is rotated or aligned vertically. The y dimension can be chosen depending on the physical properties of the aerosol forming substrate.
    [00072] The cavity can also have any suitable depth d. For example, the depth d of the cavity can be 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm or even as much as 1 cm. The depth d can be chosen so that the cavity 505 can collect a sufficient amount of liquid. The depth d can be chosen depending on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. The cavity may not have the same depth d across the entire cross section.
    [00073] In Figures 5 and 6, cavity 505 is illustrated positioned at a transverse distance and from outside the aerosol generation system. That is, the distance from the outer circle forming the ring and the outside of the aerosol generation system is c. Distance c can be chosen to have any value. Similarly, cavity 505 is illustrated positioned at a transverse distance d from the air outlet 125 of the aerosol generating system. The distance d can be chosen to have any value. In Figures 5 and 6, the cavity is symmetrically located around the air outlet. However, this need not be the case and the annular cavity can instead be decentralized. All dimensions can be chosen as desired, depending, for example, on the desired size for the aerosol generation system and physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate.
    [00074] In Figures 5 and 6, the annular cavity is located near the air outlet. This may be preferable, since this location was considered more efficient for collecting liquid droplets. This is because the airflow in the aerosol generation system may have a tendency to push the liquid droplets towards the air outlet. However, the cavity can be located in another moonlight in the aerosol-forming chamber. In addition, several concentric grooves can be provided. The cavity can also be connected to the capillary wick, for example, through one or more return passages. This allows the collection of liquid in the cavities to be recycled. Other variations are possible.
    [00075] In the modalities illustrated in Figures 3, 4, 5 and 6, the cavity or cavities may contain capillary material. The cavity or cavities can be substantially filled with capillary material. The capillary material in the cavity is arranged to retain the liquid condensate collected in the cavity. In this way, the amount of free liquid, that is, liquid that is free to flow, is reduced. The provision of such capillary material further reduces the likelihood that the condensed liquid will leak from the aerosol generation system. The capillary material can extend out of the cavity and connect to the capillary wick. For example, the capillary material may extend through a return passage. This allows the condensed liquid to be recycled.
    [00076] The capillary material can comprise any material that is suitable for retaining the liquid. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene fibers or polypropylene, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [00077] Thus, in the modalities illustrated in Figures 3, 4, 5 and 6, the leak prevention device is supplied in the form of one or more liquid collection cavities. The cavity or cavities allow condensed liquid droplets to be collected, thus preventing leakage from the aerosol generation system. Optionally, the collected liquid can be recycled to the capillary wick, thus reducing waste.
    [00078] Figure 7 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of a steel aerosol generation system with a second embodiment of the invention. Figure 7 illustrates the nozzle end 103 including the cartridge 113, the capillary wick 117, the heater 119, the aerosol forming chamber 127 and the air outlet 125. Other components are not shown in Figure 7 for the sake of clarity.
    [00079] In Figure 7, the air flow is illustrated schematically by arrows 701. It can be seen that the air flow is directed through the circular wick and heater in a substantially perpendicular direction. That is, the air flow is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axis of the housing and the capillary wick. In Figure 7, an inner wall of the housing is provided with a hooked element 705. The hooked element 705 has a hook 705a at its farthest end from the capillary wick and an inclined part 705b at its end closest to the capillary wick. Liquid droplets 703 are illustrated accumulating within the hooked element 705 between the capillary wick 117 and the heater 119 and the air outlet 125. The hooked element 705 acts as a leak prevention device. The hooked element 705 collects, on the hook 705a, droplets of condensed liquid that, otherwise, would be collected on the inner walls. The 705a hook prevents liquid droplets from flowing further down. The hooking member 705 provides a recycling path in the form of an inclined part 705b to channel the collected liquid droplets back into the capillary wick.
    [00080] In Figure 7, the air flow is illustrated directed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the capillary and heater wick. However, the leak prevention device in the form of a hooking member 705 can still be provided when the air flow is not in a direction substantially perpendicular to the capillary wick and heater. The hooked element is, however, particularly efficient in the embodiment of Figure 7 since the air flow direction means that there is a tendency for condensed liquid droplets to form in the region of the hooked element. The hooked member 705 can take any suitable shape. For example, the hooked element can extend around all or part of the circumference of the aerosol generation system. The hooked element can extend along any length of the aerosol generation system between the capillary wick and the heater and the air outlet. The hooked element can be provided on a wall of the aerosol forming chamber. More than one hooked element can be supplied.
    [00081] The inclined part 705b of the hooked element does not need to be supplied. However, the inclined portion 705b is advantageous in that it assists in the transfer of liquid droplets back to the capillary wick. The sloping part prevents liquid droplets from accumulating between the hook and the capillary wick. The sloping part can have any suitable angle and length. The hook 705a of the hooked element collects the liquid droplets. The hook can have any suitable shape. The shape of the hook may depend on the expected condensed liquid droplet size. This can be determined by the physical properties of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.
    [00082] In a variation of the modality illustrated in Figure 7, the hooked element 705 may include capillary material in part or all of its surface. This capillary material is arranged to maintain the collection of liquid condensate in the hooked element. In this way, the amount of free liquid, that is, liquid that is free to flow, is reduced. The provision of such capillary material further reduces the likelihood that the condensing liquid will leak from the aerosol generation system. The capillary material assists with the transfer of condensed liquid droplets back to the capillary wick. The capillary material may be in contact with the capillary wick. This allows the liquid to be recycled.
    [00083] The capillary material can comprise any material or combination of materials that is suitable for retaining the liquid. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene fibers or polypropylene, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [00084] Thus, in the modality illustrated in Figure 7, the leak prevention device is provided in the form of a hooked element. The hooked element allows droplets of liquid to be collected, thus preventing leakage of the liquid doomed material from the aerosol generation system. Optionally, the collected liquid can be recycled back to the capillary wick, thus reducing waste.
    [00085] Figure 8 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system according to a third embodiment of the invention. Figure 8 illustrates the nozzle end 103 including cartridge 113, capillary wick 117, heater 119, aerosol forming chamber 127 and air outlet 125. Other components are not shown in Figure 8 for the sake of clarity. In Figure 8, the air flow is shown schematically by the arrows 801.
    [00086] The aerosol generation system of Figure 8 additionally includes an impact element 805 positioned on the downstream side of the capillary wick and heater. The impact element 805 allows droplets of liquid 803 to be trapped on the upstream side of the impact element. In Figure 8, the impact element 805 includes capillary material 807 on the upstream side although this need not be included. In Figure 8, capillary material 807 is in direct contact with capillary wick 117, although this direct contact is optional. The contact allows any liquid droplets collected by the impact element 805 to be transferred back to the capillary wick.
    [00087] The impact element 805 acts as a leak prevention device. The impact element collects the liquid droplets, which can otherwise be collected on the inner walls. The impact element disrupts the air flow in the aerosol generation system downstream of the capillary wick and heater. The impact element tends to collect the larger droplets. The larger droplets can be droplets having a diameter greater than about 1.0 μm. Alternatively, larger droplets can be droplets having a diameter greater than about 1.5 μm. This is because the larger droplets have greater inertia and are therefore more likely to be collected in the impact element. Smaller liquid droplets tend to be transported by the airflow deflecting around the impact element. However, the larger liquid droplets cannot undergo such deviation around the impact element and the larger droplets impact on the upstream side of the impact element.
    [00088] If the impact element includes capillary material at least on its upstream side, the liquid droplets can be more readily retained. In this way, the amount of free liquid, that is, liquid that is free to flow, is reduced. The provision of such capillary material further reduces the likelihood that the liquid will leak from the aerosol generation system. If the capillary material is in contact with the capillary wick, this allows the collected liquid droplets to be transferred back to the capillary wick. This allows the liquid to be recycled.
    [00089] The impact element 805 can take any suitable form. For example, the impact element can be of any suitable cross-sectional shape and size. The surface upstream of the impact element, where the capillary material can be located, can be of any suitable shape and size. The size of the surface upstream of the impact element will affect the size of the liquid droplets that are collected. A small upstream surface area will allow only the largest droplets to be collected. A larger upstream surface area will allow smaller droplets to be collected as well. In this way, the size of the upstream surface can be chosen depending on the desired aerosol properties and the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate.
    [00090] If the impact element is supplied with capillary material in contact with the capillary wick, the impact element can be positioned at any suitable distance from the heater. The distance from the heater will affect the size of the droplets that are collected in the impact element. If the impact element is not provided with the capillary material in contact with the capillary wick, the impact element can be positioned at any suitable distance from the capillary wick and heater. Preferably, the impact element is supported in the aerosol forming chamber by one or more beams (not shown in Figure 8).
    [00091] In Figure 8, the capillary material is illustrated on the upstream surface of the impact element 805. The capillary material can be supplied on all or part of the upstream surface. The capillary material can be additionally or alternatively supplied on other surfaces of the impact member. The capillary material can comprise any material or combination of materials that is suitable for retaining the liquid. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene fibers or polypropylene, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [00092] Thus, in the modality illustrated in Figure 8, the leak prevention device is provided in the form of an impact element. The impact element interrupts the air flow, thus allowing liquid droplets to be collected. This prevents or at least reduces leakage from the aerosol generation system. Optionally, the collected liquid can be recycled back to the capillary wick, thus reducing waste.
    [00093] Figure 9 illustrates an enlarged view of the nozzle end of an aerosol generating system according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Figure 9 illustrates the nozzle end 103 including cartridge 113, capillary wick 117, heater 1198, aerosol forming chamber 127 and air outlet 125. In Figure 9, aerosol forming chamber 127 comprises walls 127a and exit 127b. Other components are not shown in Figure 9 for clarity. In Figure 9, the air flow is illustrated schematically by the arrows 901.
    [00094] The aerosol generating system of Figure 9 additionally includes a closure element 905. In this embodiment, the closure element comprises a closure plate 905a supported on an axis 905b. The closure plate 905a is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axis of the system. The 905b axis is substantially parallel to the longitudinal geometric axis of the system. The shaft 906b is supported within the aerosol generating system by one or more beams 905c. In Figure 9, the closing element 905 is shown in the open position. As illustrated by arrow 907, the closure member can be moved towards the aerosol forming chamber to a closed position.
    [00095] The closing element 905 acts as a leak prevention device. When the aerosol generation system is in use, the closure element 905 is in the open position (as shown in Figure 9). An air flow path is provided between the air inlet and the air outlet through the aerosol forming chamber. Air flows through the aerosol forming chamber outlet 127b and deflects around the closure plate 905a as illustrated by arrows 901. When the aerosol generating system is not in use, the closure element 905 can be moved to the closed position (not shown). In the closed position, the closure plate 905a rests on the walls 127a of the aerosol forming chamber, thereby sealing the aerosol forming chamber. Any droplets of liquid condensing on the inner walls of the aerosol forming chamber are unable to seal out of the aerosol generating system since outlet 127b is sealed. This is particularly useful, as the aerosol generation system will cool after use and any aerosol remaining in the aerosol forming chamber will begin to condense into liquid droplets.
    [00096] The closing element 905 can be manually operated by a user. For example, shaft 905b can be threaded and can cooperate with a threaded nut (not shown). As the user rotates the closure element in one direction, the closure element will move towards the aerosol forming chamber and into the closed position. As the user rotates the closure element in the opposite direction, the closure element will move away from the aerosol forming chamber and into the open position. In this way, the user can configure the closure element for the open position before using the aerosol generation system and can configure the closure element for the closed position after use.
    [00097] Alternatively, the closing element 905 can be electrically operated. Again, shaft 905b can be threaded and can cooperate with a threaded nut (not shown). For example, when the user is about to use the aerosol generation system, the user can move a switch (not shown) to the "on" position. Then, the electrical circuit assembly can activate an actuator, for example, a motor or an electromagnetic actuator, to move the closing element 905 to the open position. Then, after use, the user can move the switch (not shown) to an "off" position. The electrical circuit assembly can then activate the motor to move the closing element to the closed position. Alternatively, the electrical circuit assembly can automatically activate the motor to move the closing element to the closed position. For example, the electrical circuit assembly may be arranged to monitor the time since the last drink. If that moment reaches a predetermined limit, it will indicate that the user has finished using the aerosol generation system. The electrical circuit assembly can then activate the motor to move the closing element into the closed position.
    [00098] The closure element can take any suitable form. For example, the closure plate can have any suitable surface area as long as it can substantially seal the outlet of the aerosol forming chamber. As already mentioned, the shaft 905b can be threaded and can cooperate with a threaded nut. Alternative devices for moving the closure element between the closed and open positions can be provided.
    [00099] The position of the closure element in the open position (as shown in Figure 9) means that the closure plate 905a can act as an impact element as shown in Figure 8. This will depend on the distance of the closure pole 905a from the capillary wick and heater when the closing element is in the open position. In this way, the closure element 905 can have a dual functionality. The closure plate 905a can be supplied with capillary material in part or all of its upstream surface. This will allow any liquid droplets that are collected by the closure plate 905a to be retained and will minimize the amount of free liquid. The capillary material can provide a return path for the collected liquid droplets. For example, when the closure element is in the closed position, the capillary material on the plate 905a may come into contact with the capillary material within the walls 172a of the aerosol forming chamber, thus allowing the liquid to be channeled back to the capillary wick. The capillary material can comprise any material or combination of materials that is suitable for retaining the liquid. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or unit polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene fibers or polypropylene, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [000100] Thus, in the modality illustrated in Figure 9, the leak prevention device is provided in the form of a closing element. The closure element allows the aerosol forming chamber to be substantially sealed when the aerosol generating system is not in use. This prevents liquid droplets from leaking out of the aerosol generation system. Optionally, any liquid that collects in the closure element can be recycled back to the capillary wick, thereby reducing waste.
    [000101] In the above modalities, the capillary material can be supplied together with the leak prevention device. However, the capillary material can, in fact, be supplied alone to act as a leak prevention device in its own right. The capillary material can comprise any material or combination of materials that is suitable for having the liquid. Examples of suitable materials are a sponge or foam material, a foamed metal or plastic material, a fibrous material, for example, made from rolled or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, polyester fibers. terylene or polypropylene, nylon or ceramic fibers.
    [000102] Thus, according to the invention, the aerosol generation system includes leak prevention device to prevent or reduce the leakage of condensed liquid from the aerosol generation system. The modalities of the leak prevention device have been described with reference to Figures 2 to 9. The characteristics described in relation to one modality can also be applicable to the other modality. For example, the aerosol generation system can be provided with a leak prevention device according to one modality in addition to a leak prevention device according to another modality.
    权利要求:
    Claims (12)
    [0001]
    1. Aerosol generating system (100) for heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate (115), the system characterized by the fact that it comprises: an aerosol-forming chamber (127); and, a leak prevention device configured to prevent or reduce the leakage of condensed liquid aerosol material (303) from the aerosol generating system (100); wherein the leak prevention device comprises at least one cavity (305, 307) in a wall in the aerosol forming chamber (127), to collect liquid condensed material (303) formed from the aerosol forming substrate and the , or each, cavity (305, 307) has a transverse dimension x, where x is 0.5 mm or 1 mm or is between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.
    [0002]
    2. Aerosol generation system (100), according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the leak prevention device comprises at least one additional cavity in a wall of the aerosol forming chamber (127), to collect the liquid condensed material formed from the aerosol-forming substrate (115).
    [0003]
    3. Aerosol generation system (100), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that at least one cavity contains capillary material.
    [0004]
    Aerosol generation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the leak prevention device comprises at least one hooked element (705) for collecting droplets of liquid condensed material formed on the aerosol forming substrate (115).
    [0005]
    5. Aerosol generation system (100), according to claim 4, characterized by the fact that the at least one hooked element (705) comprises a recycling path (705b) to recycle the droplets collected from the liquid condensed material formed from the aerosol forming substrate (115).
    [0006]
    6. Aerosol generation system (100), according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by the fact that the at least one hooked element (705) includes capillary material.
    [0007]
    Aerosol generation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the leak prevention device comprises an impact element (805) to interrupt the air flow in the air chamber aerosol formation (127) in order to collect liquid droplets being formed from the aerosol forming substrate (115).
    [0008]
    8. Aerosol generation system (100), according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that the impact element (805) includes capillary material (807).
    [0009]
    Aerosol generation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the leak prevention device comprises a closure element (905) to substantially seal the aerosol forming chamber (127) when the aerosol generation system is not in use.
    [0010]
    Aerosol generation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it additionally comprises a liquid storage part (113) for storing the liquid aerosol forming substrate (115 ).
    [0011]
    Aerosol generation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it additionally comprises a capillary wick (117) for transporting the liquid aerosol-forming substrate (115) by the capillary action .
    [0012]
    Aerosol generation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the aerosol generation system is electrically operated and additionally comprises an electric heater (119) to heat the substrate of formation of liquid aerosol (115).
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    JP6073240B2|2017-02-01|
    MX2013006206A|2013-07-29|
    PL2645891T3|2021-01-11|
    ES2813858T3|2021-03-25|
    IL226261A|2019-02-28|
    AU2011335423A1|2013-06-06|
    ZA201303452B|2014-01-29|
    CO6741195A2|2013-08-30|
    EP2645891A1|2013-10-09|
    KR20200105533A|2020-09-07|
    IL226261D0|2013-07-31|
    CN103237469A|2013-08-07|
    CN103237469B|2020-01-10|
    EP3747286A1|2020-12-09|
    KR102150473B1|2020-09-02|
    KR102045233B1|2019-11-15|
    US10104911B2|2018-10-23|
    BR112013013269A2|2016-09-13|
    EA026076B1|2017-02-28|
    US20190014826A1|2019-01-17|
    BR112013013269A8|2017-12-19|
    SG190980A1|2013-07-31|
    EP2460422A1|2012-06-06|
    CA2818953A1|2012-06-07|
    MY165805A|2018-04-27|
    CA2818953C|2020-10-27|
    MX355200B|2018-04-09|
    HUE050628T2|2020-12-28|
    KR20130139296A|2013-12-20|
    JP2014504852A|2014-02-27|
    CN109602087B|2021-11-16|
    KR20190091369A|2019-08-05|
    EP2645891B1|2020-07-29|
    WO2012072264A1|2012-06-07|
    NZ610871A|2015-01-30|
    AU2011335423B2|2016-09-29|
    US20130306064A1|2013-11-21|
    CN109602087A|2019-04-12|
    EA201390819A1|2013-09-30|
    UA108674C2|2015-05-25|
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    法律状态:
    2018-12-18| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-08-06| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-05-12| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-12-22| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-03-02| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 02/12/2011, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    EP10252048A|EP2460422A1|2010-12-03|2010-12-03|An aerosol generating system with provention of condensate leakage|
    EP10252048.3|2010-12-03|
    PCT/EP2011/006055|WO2012072264A1|2010-12-03|2011-12-02|An aerosol generating system with prevention of condensate leakage|
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