U.S. patent application number 17/052421 was filed with the patent office on 2021-06-10 for shisha cartridge.
The applicant listed for this patent is PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS S.A.. Invention is credited to Felix Fernando, Ana Isabel Gonzalez Florez, Eva Saade Latorre.
Application Number | 20210169142 17/052421 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005465496 |
Filed Date | 2021-06-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210169142 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fernando; Felix ; et
al. |
June 10, 2021 |
SHISHA CARTRIDGE
Abstract
A shisha cartridge comprises a body defining a cavity. An
aerosol-forming substrate is disposed in the cavity. The cartridge
also comprises a heatable surface area. The ratio of the heatable
surface area of the cartridge to the volume of the cavity is in a
range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1. The maximum
inner width of the cavity may be 4 cm. The height of the cavity may
be 3 cm or greater.
Inventors: |
Fernando; Felix; (Old
Basing, GB) ; Gonzalez Florez; Ana Isabel;
(St-Sulpice, CH) ; Saade Latorre; Eva; (Colombier,
CH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS S.A. |
Kleuchlatel |
|
CH |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005465496 |
Appl. No.: |
17/052421 |
Filed: |
May 2, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
May 2, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB2019/053595 |
371 Date: |
November 2, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A24F 1/30 20130101; A24F
40/48 20200101; A24B 15/302 20130101; A24F 40/20 20200101; A24D
1/14 20130101; A24F 40/42 20200101 |
International
Class: |
A24F 40/42 20060101
A24F040/42; A24F 1/30 20060101 A24F001/30; A24D 1/14 20060101
A24D001/14; A24B 15/30 20060101 A24B015/30; A24F 40/20 20060101
A24F040/20; A24F 40/48 20060101 A24F040/48 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 2, 2018 |
EP |
18170471.9 |
Claims
1. A shisha cartridge comprising: a body defining a cavity; an
aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the cavity; and a heatable
surface area in the cavity; wherein a ratio of the heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity is in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1
to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
2. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of
the heatable surface area to the volume of the cavity is from about
1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 3 cm.sup.-1.
3. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the heatable
surface area is from about 25 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2.
4. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the heatable
surface area is from about 25 cm.sup.2 to about 55 cm.sup.2.
5. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the body has
a length of about 10 cm or less.
6. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the body has
a length from about 3.5 cm to about 7 cm.
7. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the body has
an inner diameter of about 1 cm or greater.
8. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the body has
an inner diameter of about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm.
9. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the volume of
the cavity is from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50 cm.sup.3.
10. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the volume
of substrate in the cavity is from about 20 cm.sup.3 to about 25
cm.sup.3.
11. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the
aerosol-forming substrate comprises molasses.
12. The shisha cartridge according to claim 11, wherein a mass of
the molasses is from about 3 g to about 25 g.
13. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the heatable
surface area is the surface area of the cavity.
14. The shisha cartridge comprising: a body defining a cavity
having a maximum inner width of 4 cm; and an aerosol-forming
substrate disposed in the cavity.
15. The shisha cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the cavity
has a height of 3 cm or greater.
16. The shisha cartridge according to claim 15, wherein the height
is greater than the width.
17. The shisha cartridge according to claim 15, wherein the cavity
defines a heatable surface area, and wherein a ratio of the
heatable surface area to a volume of the cavity is in a range from
about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
18. The shisha cartridge according to claim 17, wherein the cavity
defines a cavity surface area, and wherein a ratio of the cavity
surface area to a volume of the cavity is in a range from about 1
cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
19. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the body has
a frustoconical shape.
20. The shisha cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the body
comprises a top, a bottom and a sidewall extending between the top
and the bottom, wherein the sidewall deviates from the longitudinal
axis of the body at an angle of about 4.5.degree..
21. The shisha cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the body
comprises a top, a bottom, a sidewall extending between the top and
bottom and a bevelled edge between the bottom and the sidewall.
22. The shisha device according to claim 21, wherein the bevelled
edge is at an angle to the bottom of between about 15.degree. and
about 20.degree..
23. A shisha system comprising: the shisha cartridge according to
claim 1; and a shisha device comprising: a receptacle for receiving
the cartridge; a heating element for heating the aerosol-generating
substrate when the cartridge is received in the receptacle of the
shisha device; a vessel having a liquid fill level and defining a
head space above the liquid fill level; an aerosol conduit for
conveying aerosol from the receptacle to below the liquid fill
level in the vessel; and an outlet in communication with the head
space.
Description
[0001] This invention relates to shisha devices and to cartridges
containing an aerosol-forming substrate for use in shisha devices;
and more particularly, to cartridges for use in shisha devices that
heat the aerosol-forming substrate without combusting the
substrate.
[0002] Traditional shisha devices are used to smoke tobacco and are
configured such that vapor and smoke pass through a water basin
before inhalation by a consumer. Shisha devices may include one
outlet, or more than one outlet so that the device can be used by
more than one consumer at a time. Use of shisha devices is
considered by many to be a leisure activity and a social
experience.
[0003] The tobacco used in shisha devices may be mixed with other
ingredients to, for example, increase the volume of the vapour and
smoke produced, to alter flavour, or both. Charcoal pellets are
typically used to heat the tobacco in a traditional shisha device,
which may cause full or partial combustion of the tobacco or other
ingredients. Additionally, charcoal pellets may generate harmful,
or potentially harmful products, such as carbon monoxide, which may
mix with the shisha vapor and pass through the water basin.
[0004] Some shisha devices have been proposed that use electric
heat sources to combust the tobacco to, for example, avoid
by-products of burning charcoal or to improve the consistency with
which the tobacco is combusted. Other shisha devices have been
proposed that employ e-liquids rather than tobacco. Shisha devices
that employ e-liquids eliminate combustion by-products but deprive
shisha consumers of the tobacco-based experience.
[0005] Various shisha devices have been proposed that use electric
heaters to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, such as tobacco,
without burning the substrate. Such shisha devices provide for a
tobacco-based experience without combustion by-products. However,
substituting an electric heater for charcoal may reduce the total
aerosol mass produced from the substrate.
[0006] Charcoal-operated shisha devices rely on conduction and
convection for thermal transfer and aerosol production. Through
conduction, the charcoal heats the aerosol-forming substrate to
temperatures up to about 200.degree. C., which remains fairly
constant throughout the experience. Through convection, the
aerosol-forming substrate may be heated up to about 230.degree. C.,
with air temperatures reaching up to about 700.degree. C. during
puffing.
[0007] Electric heaters, for example resistive heaters, may provide
similar levels of thermal transfer through conduction. However,
reaching air temperatures of about 700.degree. C. with electric
heaters, particularly if the shisha device is battery powered,
presents challenges. As such, the substrate may not be sufficiently
heated to cause substantial aerosol generation for a sustained
period of time, which may result in generation of less total
aerosol mass when compared to shisha devices employing
charcoal.
[0008] It would be desirable to provide a shisha cartridge
containing an aerosol-forming substrate that may be heated by an
electric heater in a manner that provides aerosol production that
is similar to the aerosol production experienced with
charcoal-heated shisha devices. More particularly, it would be
desirable to provide a cartridge for use in a heat-not-burn shisha
device that produces desirable levels of aerosol mass.
[0009] Various aspects of the invention relate to a shisha
cartridge comprising a body defining a cavity. The cartridge
comprises an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the cavity. The
cartridge comprises a heatable surface area. The heatable surface
area may be defined by the body. A ratio of the heatable surface
area of the cartridge to a volume of the cavity is in a range from
about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1. For example, the ratio of
the heatable surface area to the volume of the cavity may be in a
range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 2 cm.sup.-1, such as from
about 1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1 or from about 1.3
cm.sup.-1 to about 1.5 cm.sup.-1. In some embodiments, the heatable
surface area is from about 25 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, such
as from about 25 cm.sup.2 to about 55 cm.sup.2.
[0010] Various aspects of the invention relate to a shisha
cartridge comprising a body defining a cavity. The cartridge
comprises an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the cavity. The
cavity comprises a cavity surface area. The cavity surface area may
be defined by the body. A ratio of the cavity surface area of the
cartridge to a volume of the cavity is in a range from about 1
cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
[0011] Various aspects of the invention relate to a shisha
cartridge comprising a body defining a cavity. The cartridge
comprises an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the cavity. The
cavity comprises a cavity surface area comprising a lateral cavity
surface area. The cavity surface area may be defined by the body.
The lateral cavity surface area may be defined by a sidewall of the
body, such as a cylindrical or frustoconical sidewall of the body.
A ratio of the lateral cavity surface area of the cartridge to a
volume of the cavity is in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about
4 cm.sup.-1.
[0012] Various aspects of the invention relate to a shisha
cartridge comprising a body defining a cavity having a maximum
inner width of 4 cm. In some embodiments, the shisha cartridge
comprises a body defining a cavity having a maximum inner width of
3.5 cm. In some embodiments, the shisha cartridge comprises a body
defining a cavity having a maximum inner width of 3 cm. The
cartridge comprises an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the
cavity. The body comprises a sidewall having and inner surface that
defines at least a part of the cavity. The cartridge has a
longitudinal axis, a height along the longitudinal axis, and an
inner width. For purposes of the present disclosure, the inner
width of the cartridge is determined along an axis orthogonal to
the longitudinal axis from the inner surface of the sidewall at one
side of the sidewall to an inner surface of the sidewall at an
opposing side of the side wall when measured through the geometric
center of the cavity. If a section of the sidewall in a plane
orthogonal to the longitudinal axis is circular, the width may be a
diameter. Preferably, the maximum width is the width of a section
at or near the top of the container.
[0013] Various aspects of the invention relate to a shisha
cartridge comprising a body defining a cavity having a height of 3
cm or greater. The cartridge comprises an aerosol-forming substrate
disposed in the cavity.
[0014] Various aspects of the invention relate to a shisha
cartridge comprising a body defining a cavity having a height of
3.5 cm or greater. The cartridge comprises an aerosol-forming
substrate disposed in the cavity.
[0015] The body may define a cavity having a height of 3 cm or
greater and a width of 4 cm or less. The body may define a cavity
having a height of 3 cm or greater and a width of 4 cm or less, and
the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume
of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a height of 3 cm or
greater, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 4 cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a width of 4
cm or less, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area of the cartridge to a volume of the cavity in a range from
about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
[0016] The body may define a cavity having a height of 3.5 cm or
greater and a width of 4 cm or less. The body may define a cavity
having a height of 3.5 cm or greater and a width of 4 cm or less,
and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface area to a
volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a height of 3.5 cm
or greater, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 4 cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a width of 4
cm or less, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area of the cartridge to a volume of the cavity in a range from
about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
[0017] The body may define a cavity having a height of 3 cm or
greater and a width of 3.5 cm or less. The body may define a cavity
having a height of 3 cm or greater and a width of 3.5 cm or less,
and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface area to a
volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a height of 3 cm or
greater, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 4 cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a width of
3.5 cm or less, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable
surface area of the cartridge to a volume of the cavity in a range
from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
[0018] The body may define a cavity having a height of 3.5 cm or
greater and a width of 3.5 cm or less. The body may define a cavity
having a height of 3.5 cm or greater and a width of 3.5 cm or less,
and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface area to a
volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a height of 3.5 cm
or greater, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 4 cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a width of
3.5 cm or less, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable
surface area of the cartridge to a volume of the cavity in a range
from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
[0019] The body may define a cavity having a height of 3.5 cm or
greater and a width of 3 cm or less. The body may define a cavity
having a height of 3.5 cm or greater and a width of 3 cm or less,
and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface area to a
volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a height of 3.5 cm
or greater, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 4 cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a width of 3
cm or less, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area of the cartridge to a volume of the cavity in a range from
about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
[0020] The body may define a cavity having a height of 3 cm or
greater and a width of 3 cm or less. The body may define a cavity
having a height of 3 cm or greater and a width of 3 cm or less, and
the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume
of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a height of 3 cm or
greater, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 4 cm.sup.-1. The body may define a cavity having a width of 3
cm or less, and the cartridge may have a ratio of heatable surface
area of the cartridge to a volume of the cavity in a range from
about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1.
[0021] In some preferred embodiments, the body defines a cavity
having a height of 3.5 cm or greater and a width of 3 cm or less
and may have a ratio of heatable surface area of the cartridge to a
volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1.
[0022] A ratio of heatable surface area, such as a surface area of
the cavity defined by the body, to volume of the cavity of about 1
cm.sup.-1 or greater increases heat transfer by conduction,
relative to conventional charcoal-operated shisha devices. This
increases aerosol production. The increase in heat transfer by
conduction may overcome, or at least partially compensate for
absent thermal transfer by convection in electrically heated shisha
devices, relative to conventional charcoal-operated shisha devices.
A ratio of heatable surface area to volume of the cavity of about 1
cm.sup.-1 or greater maybe particularly useful in increasing
aerosol production during initial puffs. This helps to reduce a
time between initiating heating of the aerosol-forming substrate
and a time at which the device is ready for a user to take a first
puff.
[0023] A ratio of heatable surface area, such as a surface area of
the cavity defined by the body, to volume of the cavity of about 4
cm.sup.-1 or less prevents premature depletion of the substrate. In
some embodiments, the ratio of the heatable surface area of the
body of the cavity to the volume of the cavity is from about 1.2
cm.sup.-1 to about 3 cm.sup.-1, such as from about 1.5 cm.sup.-1 to
about 3 cm.sup.-1, or such as from about 2.5 cm.sup.-1 to about 3
cm.sup.-1.
[0024] The heatable surface area to volume ratio of the cavity may
be readily varied by altering one or more dimensional constraints
of the cartridge, such as the length, inner diameter, or shape of
the body of the cartridge. As used herein, "inner diameter" of the
cartridge means an average transverse sectional distance across the
cavity when measured through the geometric center of the section.
If the transverse cross-section is circular, each measured
transverse distance should be the same as the average transverse
sectional distance. However, the transverse cross-section may have
any suitable shape, including shapes other than circular. The
cartridge may have different inner diameters along the length of
the cartridge or the inner diameter may be uniform along the length
of the capsule.
[0025] The heatable surface area may be readily varied by employing
one or more thermal bridges inside the cavity to increase the
heatable surface area. The one or more thermal bridges may be
provided inside the cavity of the cartridge.
[0026] The cartridge may be of any suitable shape configured to be
received by a shisha device. The shisha device is preferably
configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge
by conduction. The cartridge is preferably shaped and sized to
allow contact, or minimize distance, between a heating element of
shisha device to provide efficient heat transfer from a heater of
the shisha to the aerosol-generating substrate in the
cartridge.
[0027] The cartridge may have a substantially cubioidal shape,
cylindrical shape, a frustoconical shape, or any other suitable
shape. Preferably, the cartridge has a generally cylindrical shape
or a frustoconical shape.
[0028] Where the cartridge has a frustoconical shape, in some
embodiments, sidewalls of the cartridge body deviate from the
longitudinal axis at an angle of between about 2.degree. and about
45.degree., preferably at an angle between about 3.degree. and
about 5.degree.. In some embodiments, sidewalls of the cartridge
body deviate from the longitudinal axis at an angle of between
about 4.5.degree..
[0029] The cartridge may comprise any suitable body defining a
cavity in which the aerosol-forming substrate is disposed. The body
is preferably formed from one or more heat resistant materials,
such as a heat resistant polymer or metal. Preferably, the body
comprises a thermally conductive material. For example, the body
may comprise any of: aluminium, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, any
alloys thereof and combinations thereof. Preferably, the body
comprises aluminium.
[0030] The body may comprise a top, bottom and sidewall.
[0031] In some embodiments, the bottom may be a flat bottom. In
some embodiments, the bottom may be a substantially planar bottom.
In some embodiments, the bottom may transition to the sidewalls in
a single transition, such as by way of a vertex or a curved
edge.
[0032] In some embodiments, the bottom is not entirely planar or
flat. In some embodiments, the bottom deviates from a flat bottom
at an angle. The angle may be about 5.degree. to about 40.degree.,
such as from about 10.degree. to about 30.degree., preferably from
about 15.degree. to about 25.degree. or from about 15.degree. to
about 20.degree., such as 18.degree.. In some embodiments, the
bottom deviates from a flat portion by means of an intermediate
transition medium, providing a first transition between the
sidewall and the intermediate transition medium and a second
transition between the intermediate transition region and the
bottom. In some embodiments, the intermediate transition medium may
be at an angle to the remainder of the bottom. The angle may be
about 5.degree. to about 40.degree., such as from about 10.degree.
to about 30.degree., preferably from about 15.degree. to about
25.degree. or from about 15.degree. to about 20.degree., such as
18.degree.. The remainder of the bottom may be substantially flat.
The remainder of the bottom may be substantially planar. The
intermediate transition may lie in a plane intersecting both a
plane of the remainder of the bottom region and a plant of the
sidewall. The angle at which the plane of the intermediate
transition and the remainder of the bottom region may be about
5.degree. to about 40.degree., such as from about 10.degree. to
about 30.degree., preferably from about 15.degree. to about
25.degree. or from about 15.degree. to about 20.degree., such as
18.degree.. The intermediate transition may be a bevelled edge in
some embodiments.
[0033] The body may comprise one or more part. For example, the
sidewall and the bottom may be a single part or two parts
configured to engage one another in any suitable manner, such as
threaded engagement or interference fit. The top and sidewall may
be a single part or two parts configured to engage one another in
any suitable manner, such as threaded engagement or interference
fit.
[0034] The body defines a cavity in which the aerosol-forming
substrate may be disposed. The portion of the body defining the
cavity has a heatable surface area. As used herein, "heatable
surface area" means an area of a surface through which heat applied
at a location other than the area of the surface may be transferred
to the area of the surface. For example, the heatable surface area
of the portion of the body defining the cavity is a surface area
through which heat may be transferred from outside of the cavity
through the body to the surface of the body defining the cavity.
For example, the heatable surface area of the portion of the body
defining the cavity is a surface area of the cavity interior
through which heat may be transferred from the outside of the
cavity, such as an external surface area of the body, through the
body to the surface of the body defining the cavity. For example,
heat may be applied to the external surface area of the body, which
heat may be transferred to the heatable surface area, the surface
area of the cavity defined by the body, to the cavity. The heatable
surface area may be a laterally heatable surface area. The heatable
surface area may be a radially heatable surface area. Preferably, a
heatable surface area has a thermal conductivity of at least about
100 Wm.sup.-1K.sup.-1. More preferably, the heatable surface area
has a thermal conductivity of at least about 150 Wm.sup.-1K.sup.-1,
such as at least about 200 Wm.sup.-1K.sup.-1.
[0035] The heatable surface area, may have any suitable total
surface area, provided that the ratio of the heatable surface area
to the cavity is in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1. In some embodiments, the ratio of the heatable surface
area to the volume of the cavity is in a range from about 1.2
cm.sup.-1 to about 3 cm.sup.-1. Preferably, the ratio of the
heatable surface area to the volume of the cavity is in a range
from about 1.5 cm.sup.-1 to about 3 cm.sup.-1, such as from about
2.5 cm.sup.-1 to about 3 cm.sup.-1. In some preferred embodiments,
the ratio of the heatable surface area to the volume of the cavity
is in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 2 cm.sup.-1, such as
from about 1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1 or from about 1.3
cm.sup.-1 to about 1.5 cm.sup.-1.
[0036] To achieve such heatable surface area to volume ratios, the
body may be long and narrow, or short and wide. The cartridge may
comprise one or more elements or features within the cavity for
increasing the heatable surface area within the cavity. For
example, the sidewall may comprise one or more fins that extend
into the cavity. The cartridge may comprise a thermal bridge within
the cavity. Preferably, the thermal bridges are positioned in the
cavity such that the aerosol-forming substrate is disposed in the
cavity is in contact with the thermal bridge on opposing major
surfaces. In some embodiments, the thermal bridge may comprise the
same material as the body. In some embodiments, the thermal bridge
may comprise a different material to that of the body. The thermal
bridge may be in thermal connection with another portion of the
body. For example, the thermal bridge may be in thermal contact
with one or more of the top, bottom, and sidewall. In some
embodiments, the thermal bridge extends from one portion of the
sidewall to another portion of the sidewall. In some embodiments,
the thermal bridge may not be in contact with the sidewall. Where a
thermal bridge is provided in the cavity, the thermal bridge forms
part of the heatable surface area of the cartridge. In some
embodiments, more than one thermal bridge may be provided.
[0037] The thermal bridge may have any suitable shape. For example,
the thermal bridge may form a cylinder. The cylinder may be within
the cavity. The cylinder may be concentric with the cavity, such as
with the sidewall of the body. The thermal bridge may be in thermal
contact with the top or bottom of the body. The thermal bridge may
include one or more additional thermal bridges that extend from the
sidewall to the cylindrical thermal bridge or may be in contact
with one or more of the top, bottom, and sidewall.
[0038] In some examples, the thermal bridge is substantially
rectangular and extends from one portion the sidewall to another
portion of the sidewall. In some examples, the thermal bridge
comprises an S-shaped cross section and extends from one portion
the sidewall to another portion of the sidewall. The thermal bridge
preferably has a thermal conductivity at least as high as the
portion of the body, such as the sidewall, bottom, or top, with
which thermal bridge is in contact. Preferably, the thermal bridge
has a conductivity greater than the portion of the body with which
thermal bridge is in contact. The thermal bridge may divide the
cavity into more than one compartment. Preferably, the compartments
are of sufficiently large dimensions to allow the aerosol-forming
substrate to readily occupy at least a portion of each compartment
to allow contact between opposing major surfaces of the thermal
bridge and the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0039] In some embodiments, heatable surface area has a total
surface area from about 20 cm.sup.2 to about 105 cm.sup.2, such as
from about 25 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2. In some embodiments,
the heatable surface area has a total surface area from about 30
cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, such as from about such as from
about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2.
[0040] The body may have any suitable dimensions, such as length
and inner diameter, and shape. It will be understood that the
length may refer to a height of the body. In some embodiments, the
body has a length of about 10 cm or less, such as about 6.5 cm or
less. The length of the body is preferably greater than about 2.5
cm. In some preferred embodiments, the body has a length from about
3.5 cm to about 7 cm.
[0041] The body may have an inner diameter of about 1 cm or
greater, such as about 1.5 cm or greater, about 1.75 cm or greater,
or about 2 cm or greater. The body preferably has an inner diameter
of about 5 cm or less. In some preferred embodiments, the body has
an inner diameter in a range from about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm.
[0042] Preferably, the body has a length of about 15 cm or less and
has an inner diameter of about 1 cm or more. More preferably, the
body has a length of about 10 cm or less and an inner diameter of
about 1.75 cm or more. Even more preferably, the body has a length
in a range from about 3.5 cm to about 7 cm and has an inner
diameter in a range from about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm. Preferably,
the body is cylindrical or frustroconical. If the body has a
frustroconical shape, the body preferably has a length from about 3
cm to about 5 cm and has a maximum inner diameter from about 2.5 cm
to about 3 cm, such as about 2.7 cm, and has a minimum inner
diameter from about 1.5 cm to about 2.5 cm, such as from about 1.8
cm to about 2.3 cm.
[0043] In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 15 cm or
less, has an inner diameter of about 1 cm or more, and has a
heatable surface area inside the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to
about 100 cm.sup.2; preferably from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100
cm.sup.2. In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 10 cm
or less, an inner diameter of about 1.75 cm or more, and has a
heatable surface inside the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about
100 cm.sup.2; for example, from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100
cm.sup.2. In some embodiments, the body has a length in a range
from about 3.5 cm to about 7 cm, has an inner diameter in a range
from about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm, and has a heatable surface inside
the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2; preferably
from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2. In some embodiments,
the body is cylindrical or frustroconical. If the body has a
frustroconical shape, the body preferably has a length from about 3
cm to about 5 cm and has a maximum inner diameter from about 2.5 cm
to about 3 cm, such as about 2.7 cm, and has a minimum inner
diameter from about 1.5 cm to about 2.5 cm, such as from about 1.8
cm to about 2.3 cm.
[0044] The body may define a cavity having a maximum inner width of
4 cm. For example, the body may define a cavity having a maximum
inner width of about 2 cm to about 4 cm. Preferably, the body
defines a cavity having a maximum inner width from about 2.5 cm to
about 3.5 cm, such as from about 2.7 cm to about 3.3 cm or from
about 2.9 cm to about 3.1 cm.
[0045] The body may define a cavity having a height of height of 3
cm or greater. For example, the body may define a cavity having a
height from about 3 cm to about 5 cm. Preferably, the body defines
a cavity having a height from about 3.5 cm to about 4.5 cm, such as
from about 3.6 cm to about 3.9 cm or about 3.8 cm to about 3.9 cm.
Preferably, the height of the cavity is greater than the maximum
inner width of the cavity.
[0046] Preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner
width of 4 cm and a height of 3 cm or greater. Preferably, the
height of the cavity is greater than the maximum inner width of the
cavity. For example, the body may define a cavity having a maximum
inner width of about 2 cm to about 4 cm and a height from about 3
cm to about 5 cm. Preferably, the body defines a cavity having a
maximum inner width from about 2.5 cm to about 3.5 cm and height
from about 3.5 cm to about 4.5 cm. More preferably, the body
defines a cavity having a maximum inner width from about 2.7 cm to
about 3.3 cm and a height from about 3.7 cm to about 3.9 cm. Even
more preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner
width from about 2.9 cm to about 3.1 cm and a height from about 3.8
cm to about 3.9 cm.
[0047] Preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner
width of 4 cm, and the cartridge has a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 2 cm.sup.-1. More preferably, the body defines a cavity
having a maximum inner width from about 2 cm to about 4 cm, and the
cartridge has a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume of the
cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 2 cm.sup.-1. Even
more preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner
width from about 2.5 cm to about 3.5 cm, and the cartridge has a
ratio of heatable surface area to a volume of the cavity in a range
from about 1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1. Still more
preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner width
from about 2.7 cm to about 3.3 cm, and the cartridge has a ratio of
heatable surface area to a volume of the cavity in a range from
about 1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1. More preferably, the
body defines a cavity having a maximum inner width from about 2.9
cm to about 3.1 cm, and the cartridge has a ratio of heatable
surface area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1.3
cm.sup.-1 to about 1.5 cm.sup.-1.
[0048] Preferably, the body defines a cavity having a height of 3
cm or greater, and the cartridge has a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 2 cm.sup.-1. More preferably, the body defines a cavity
having a height from about 3 cm to a about 5 cm, and the cartridge
has a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume of the cavity in a
range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 2 cm.sup.-1. Even more
preferably, the body defines a cavity having a height about 3.5 cm
to about 4.5 cm, and the cartridge has a ratio of heatable surface
area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1.2 cm.sup.-1
to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1. Still more preferably, the body defines a
cavity having a height from about 3.7 cm to about 3.9 cm, and the
cartridge has a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume of the
cavity in a range from about 1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1.
More preferably, the body defines a cavity having a height from
about 3.8 cm to about 3.9 cm, and the cartridge has a ratio of
heatable surface area to a volume of the cavity in a range from
about 1.3 cm.sup.-1 to about 1.5 cm.sup.-1.
[0049] Preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner
width of 4 cm and a height of 3 cm or greater, and the cartridge
has a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume of the cavity in a
range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 2 cm.sup.-1. More preferably,
the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner width from about 2
cm to about 4 cm and a height from about 3 cm to a about 5 cm, and
the cartridge has a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume of
the cavity in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 2 cm.sup.-1.
Even more preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum
inner width from about 2.5 cm to about 3.5 cm and a height about
3.5 cm to about 4.5 cm, and the cartridge has a ratio of heatable
surface area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1.2
cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1. Still more preferably, the body
defines a cavity having a maximum inner width from about 2.7 cm to
about 3.3 cm, a height from about 3.7 cm to about 3.9 cm and the
cartridge has a ratio of heatable surface area to a volume of the
cavity in a range from about 1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1.
More preferably, the body defines a cavity having a maximum inner
width from about 2.9 cm to about 3.1 cm and a height from about 3.8
cm to about 3.9 cm, and the cartridge has a ratio of heatable
surface area to a volume of the cavity in a range from about 1.3
cm.sup.-1 to about 1.5 cm.sup.-1.
[0050] The cavity may have any suitable volume. Preferably, the
cavity has a volume from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50 cm.sup.3;
such as from about 15 cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3 or from about
15 cm.sup.3 to about 30 cm.sup.3. In some preferred embodiments,
the cavity has a volume from about 15 cm.sup.3 to about 25 cm.sup.3
or from about 18 cm.sup.3 to about 22 cm.sup.3.
[0051] Preferably, the body has a cylindrical or frustoconical
shape, and defines a cylindrical cavity or a frustoconical cavity,
respectively. In some such embodiments, the angle at which the
sidewall deviates from the longitudinal axis of the cartridge is
preferably from about 2.degree. to about 10.degree., such as about
3.degree. to about 8.degree.. More preferably, the angle at which
the sidewall deviates from the longitudinal axis is preferably from
about 3.degree. to about 6.degree., such as about 4.degree. to
about 5.degree.. Such frustoconical cartridges with such angles may
advantageously provide improved thermal transfer to an
aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the cavity, when the
cartridge is heated aerosol-forming substrate. Such frustoconical
cartridges with such angles may advantageously provide more
efficient heating of an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the
cavity, when the cartridge is heated aerosol-forming substrate.
Such frustoconical cartridges with such angles may advantageously
be more easily manufactured. Such frustoconical cartridges with
such angles may advantageously be more easily manufactured using
deep drawing techniques. Such frustoconical cartridges with such
angles may advantageously be more easily inserted into or removed
from a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device, such as a
shisha aerosol-generating device.
[0052] In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises a flange at the
top. The flange may be arranged to rest on a shoulder of a
receptacle of a shisha device so that cartridge may be readily
removed from the receptacle after use by grasping the flange. The
flange may also help to prevent over-insertion of the cartridge
into the receptacle.
[0053] The aerosol-forming substrate may occupy any suitable volume
of the cavity. The volume of the aerosol-forming substrate in the
cartridge may be varied by altering the mass of the aerosol-forming
substrate placed in the cartridge. The volume of the
aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge may be varied by
altering the composition of the substrate placed in the cartridge.
The volume of the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge may be
varied by altering the shape or format of the aerosol-forming
substrate placed in the cartridge. Preferably, the ratio of the
heatable surface area to the volume of aerosol-forming substrate in
the cavity is in a range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4
cm.sup.-1, such as from about 1.2 cm.sup.-1 to about 3 cm.sup.-1,
from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 2 cm.sup.-1, from about 1.2
cm.sup.-1 to about 1.6 cm.sup.-1, or from about 1.3 cm.sup.-1 to
about 1.5 cm.sup.-1. In some embodiments, the volume of substrate
in the cavity is from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50 cm.sup.3;
preferably from about 20 cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3, such as
from about 20 cm.sup.3 to about 25 cm.sup.3.
[0054] Any suitable aerosol-forming substrate may be provided in
the cavity defined by the body of the cartridge. The
aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a substrate capable of
releasing volatile compounds that may form an aerosol. The volatile
compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate.
The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid or comprise
both solid and liquid components. Preferably, the aerosol-forming
substrate comprises a solid.
[0055] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The
nicotine containing aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a
nicotine salt matrix. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise
plant-based material. The aerosol-forming substrate preferably
comprises tobacco, and preferably the tobacco containing material
contains volatile tobacco flavor compounds, which are released from
the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming
substrate may comprise homogenized tobacco material. Homogenized
tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate
tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may alternatively or
additionally comprise a non-tobacco-containing material. The
aerosol-generating substrate may comprise homogenized plant-based
material.
[0056] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, one
or more of: powder, granules, pellets, shreds, spaghettis, strips
or sheets containing one or more of: herb leaf, tobacco leaf,
fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized
tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco.
[0057] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise at least one
aerosol-former. The aerosol-former may be any suitable known
compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates
formation of a dense and stable aerosol and that is substantially
resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of
the shisha device. Suitable aerosol-formers are well known in the
art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols, such
as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerine; esters of
polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and
aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as
dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate.
Particularly preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or
mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and,
most preferred, glycerine. The aerosol-forming substrate may
comprise other additives and ingredients, such as flavorants. The
aerosol-forming substrate preferably comprises nicotine and at
least one aerosol-former. In a particularly preferred embodiment,
the aerosol-former is glycerine.
[0058] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise any suitable
amount of an aerosol-former. For example, the aerosol-former
content may be equal to or greater than 5% on a dry weight basis,
and preferably between greater than 30% by weight on a dry weight
basis. The aerosol-former content may be less than about 95% on a
dry weight basis. Preferably, the aerosol-former content is up to
about 55%.
[0059] The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded
in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may comprise a thin
layer on which the substrate deposited on a first major surface, on
second major outer surface, or on both the first and second major
surfaces. The carrier may be formed of, for example, a paper, or
paper like material, a non-woven carbon fiber mat, a low mass open
mesh metallic screen, or a perforated metallic foil or any other
thermally stable polymer matrix. Alternatively, the carrier may
take the form of powder, granules, pellets, shreds, spaghettis,
strips or sheets. The carrier may be a non-woven fabric or fiber
bundle into which tobacco components have been incorporated. The
non-woven fabric or fiber bundle may comprise, for example, carbon
fibers, natural cellulose fibers, or cellulose derivative
fibers.
[0060] In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises
one or more sugars in any suitable amount. Preferably, the
aerosol-forming substrate comprises invert sugar, which is a
mixture of glucose and fructose obtained by splitting sucrose.
Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises from about 1%
to about 40% sugar, such as invert sugar, by weight. In some
example, one or more sugars may be mixed with a suitable carrier
such as cornstarch or maltodextrin.
[0061] In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises
one or more sensory-enhancing agent. Suitable sensory-enhancing
agents include flavorants and sensation agents, such as cooling
agents. Suitable flavorants include natural or synthetic menthol,
peppermint, spearmint, coffee, tea, spices (such as cinnamon, clove
and/or ginger), cocoa, vanilla, fruit flavors, chocolate,
eucalyptus, geranium, eugenol, agave, juniper, anethole, linalool,
and any combination thereof.
[0062] In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate is in the
form of a suspension. For example, the aerosol generating substrate
may comprise molasses. As used herein, "molasses" means an
aerosol-forming substrate composition comprising about 20% or more
sugar. For example, the molasses may comprise at least about 25% by
weight sugar, such as at least about 35% by weight sugar.
Typically, the molasses will contain less than about 60% by weight
sugar, such as less than about 50% by weight sugar.
[0063] Aerosol-forming substrates for use with traditional shisha
devices are in the form of a molasses, which may be inhomogeneous
and may contain lumps and cavities. Such cavities prevent direct
thermal contact between the substrate and a heated surface making
thermal conduction particularly inefficient. As a consequence,
electronic heated shisha devices tend to depart from traditional
molasses by using, for example, e-liquids or dry stones. Due to the
ratio of heated surface area to volume of the cavity of the
cartridge described in the present application, more traditional
aerosol-forming substrate molasses may be used to preserve the
typical ritual and shisha experience while using electric
heating.
[0064] Any suitable amount of the molasses may be disposed in the
cavity. In some preferred embodiments, about 3 g to about 25 g of
the molasses is disposed in the cavity. Preferably, from about 7 g
to about 13 g of the molasses is disposed in the cavity. More
preferably, about 10 g of the molasses is disposed in the
cavity.
[0065] In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 15 cm or
less, has an inner diameter of about 1 cm or more, and has a
heatable surface area in the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about
100 cm.sup.2, such as from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2,
and the volume of the cavity is from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50
cm.sup.3; for example, from about 25 cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3.
In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 10 cm or less,
an inner diameter of about 1.75 cm or more, and has a heatable
surface area in the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about 100
cm.sup.2, such as from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, and
the volume of the cavity is from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50
cm.sup.3; such as from about 25 cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3. In
some embodiments, the body has a length in a range from about 3.5
cm to about 7 cm, has an inner diameter in a range from about 1.5
cm to about 4 cm, and has a heatable surface area in the cavity
from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, such as from about 70
cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, and the volume of the cavity is
from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50 cm.sup.3; preferably from about
25 cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3. Preferably, the body is
cylindrical or frustroconical.
[0066] In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 15 cm or
less, has an inner diameter of about 1 cm or more, and has a
heatable surface area in the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about
100 cm.sup.2, such as from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2,
and the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity is a molasses
having a mass of about 3 g to about 25 g, such as from about 1 g to
about 13 g. In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 10
cm or less, an inner diameter of about 1.75 cm or more, and has a
heatable surface area in the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about
100 cm.sup.2, such as from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2,
and the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity is a molasses
having a mass of about 3 g to about 25 g, such as from about 1 g to
about 13 g. In some embodiments, the body has a length in a range
from about 3.5 cm to about 7 cm, has an inner diameter in a range
from about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm, and has a heatable surface area in
the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, such as
from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, and the
aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity is a molasses having a mass
of about 3 g to about 25 g, such as from about 7 g to about 13 g.
Preferably, the body is cylindrical or frustroconical.
[0067] In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 15 cm or
less, has an inner diameter of about 1 cm or more, and has a
heatable surface area in the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about
100 cm.sup.2, such as from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2,
and the volume of the cavity is from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50
cm.sup.3, such as from about 25 cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3, and
the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity is a molasses having a
mass of about 3 g to about 25 g, such as from about 7 g to about 13
g. In some embodiments, the body has a length of about 10 cm or
less, an inner diameter of about 1.75 cm or more, and has a
heatable surface area in the cavity from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about
100 cm.sup.2, such as from about 70 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2,
and the volume of the cavity is from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50
cm.sup.3, such as from about 25 cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3, and
the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity is a molasses having a
mass of about 3 g to about 25 g, such as from about 7 g to about 13
g. In some embodiments, the body has a length in a range from about
3.5 cm to about 6.7 cm, has an inner diameter in a range from about
1.5 cm to about 4 cm, and has a heatable surface area in the cavity
from about 30 cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, such as from about 70
cm.sup.2 to about 100 cm.sup.2, and the volume of the cavity is
from about 10 cm.sup.3 to about 50 cm.sup.3, such as from about 25
cm.sup.3 to about 40 cm.sup.3, and the aerosol-forming substrate in
the cavity is a molasses having a mass of about 3 g to about 25 g,
such as from about 7 g to about 13 g. Preferably, the body is
cylindrical or frustroconical.
[0068] Preferably, the cartridge comprises an amount of
aerosol-forming substrate that will provide a sufficient amount of
aerosol for a shisha experience lasting from about 10 minutes to
about 60 minutes; preferably from about 20 minutes to about 50
minutes; and more preferably from about 30 minutes to about 40
minutes.
[0069] In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises one or more
inlets and one or more outlets to allow air to flow through the
aerosol-forming substrate when the cartridge is used with a shisha
device. In some embodiments, the top of the cartridge may define
one or more apertures to form the one or more inlets of the
cartridge. In some embodiments, the bottom of the cartridge may
define one or more apertures to form the one or more outlets of the
cartridge. Preferably, the one or more inlets and outlets are sized
and shaped to provide a suitable resistance to draw (RTD) through
the cartridge. In some examples, the RTD through the cartridge,
from the inlet or inlets to the outlet or outlets, may be from
about 10 mm H.sub.2O to about 50 mm H.sub.2O, preferably from about
20 mm H.sub.2O to about 40 mm H.sub.2O. The RTD of a specimen
refers to the static pressure difference between the two ends of
the specimen when it is traversed by an air flow under steady
conditions in which the volumetric flow is 17.5 millilitres per
second at the output end. The RTD of a specimen can be measured
using the method set out in ISO Standard 6565:2002 with any
ventilation blocked.
[0070] The cartridge may include a first removable seal covering
the one or more inlets and a second removable seal covering the one
or more outlets. The first and second seals are preferably
sufficient to prevent air flow through the inlets and outlets to
prevent leakage of the contents of the cartridge and to extend
shelf life. The seal may comprise a peelable label of sticker,
foil, or the like. The label, sticker, or foil may be affixed to
the cartridge in any suitable manner, such as with an adhesive,
crimping, welding, or otherwise being joined to the container. The
seal may comprise a tab that may be grasped to peel or remove the
label, sticker, or foil from the cartridge.
[0071] In some embodiments, the cartridge does not comprise one or
more inlets and one or more outlets.
[0072] A shisha cartridge according to the present invention may be
used with any suitable shisha device. Preferably, the shisha device
is configured to sufficiently heat the aerosol-generating substrate
in the cartridge to cause formation of aerosol from the
aerosol-forming substrate but not to combust the aerosol-forming
substrate. For example, the shisha device may be configured to heat
the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature in a range from
about 150.degree. C. to about 300.degree. C.; more preferably from
about 180.degree. C. to about 250.degree. C. or from about
200.degree. C. to about 230.degree. C.
[0073] The shisha device is preferably configured to heat the
cartridge. The shisha device may comprise a receptacle for
receiving the cartridge. The shisha device comprises a heating
element configured to contact or to be in proximity to the body of
the cartridge when the cartridge is received in the receptacle. The
heating element may form at least part of the receptacle. The
heating element may form at least a portion of the surface of the
receptacle. The shisha cartridge may be configured to transfer from
the heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity
by conduction. In some embodiments, the heating element comprises
an electric heating element. In some embodiments, the heating
element comprises a resistive heating component. For example, the
heating element may comprise one or more resistive wires or other
resistive elements. The resistive wires may be in contact with a
thermally conductive material to distribute heat produced over a
broader area. Examples of suitable conductive materials include
aluminium, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, and combinations thereof.
For purposes of this disclosure, if resistive wires are in contact
with a thermally conductive material, both the resistive wires and
the thermally conductive material are part of the heating element.
The heating element may form at least a portion of the surface of
the receptacle.
[0074] The shisha device may comprise control electronics operably
coupled to the heating element to control heating of the heating
element and thus control the temperature at which the
aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is heated. The control
electronics may be provided in any suitable form and may, for
example, include a controller or a memory and a controller. The
controller may include one or more of an Application Specific
Integrated Circuit (ASIC) state machine, a digital signal
processor, a gate array, a microprocessor, or equivalent discrete
or integrated logic circuitry. Control electronics may include
memory that contains instructions that cause one or more components
of the circuitry to carry out a function or aspect of the control
electronics. Functions attributable to control electronics in this
disclosure may be embodied as one or more of software, firmware,
and hardware.
[0075] The electronic circuitry may comprise a microprocessor,
which may be a programmable microprocessor. The electronic
circuitry may be configured to regulate a supply of power. The
power may be supplied to the heater element in the form of pulses
of electrical current.
[0076] In some examples, the control electronics may be configured
to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and to
control the supply of power to the heating element depending on the
electrical resistance of the heating element. In this manner, the
control electronics may regulate the temperature of the resistive
element.
[0077] The shisha device may comprise a temperature sensor, such as
a thermocouple, operably coupled to the control electronics to
control the temperature of the heating element. The temperature
sensor may be positioned in any suitable location. For example, the
temperature sensor may be configured to insert into the cartridge
when received within the receptacle to monitor the temperature of
the aerosol-forming substrate being heated. In addition or
alternatively, the temperature sensor may be in contact with the
heating element. In addition or alternatively, the temperature
sensor may be positioned to detect temperature at an aerosol outlet
of the shisha device or a portion thereof. The sensor may transmit
signals regarding the sensed temperature to the control
electronics, which may adjust heating of the heating elements to
achieve a suitable temperature at the sensor.
[0078] The control electronics may be operably coupled to a power
supply. The shisha device may comprise any suitable power supply.
For example, a power supply of a shisha device may be a battery or
set of batteries. The batteries of the power supply may be
rechargeable, removable and replaceable, or rechargeable and
removable and replaceable. Any suitable battery may be used. For
example, heavy duty type or standard batteries existing in the
market, such as used for industrial heavy duty electrical
power-tools. Alternatively, the power supply may be any type of
electric power supply including a super or hyper-capacitor.
Alternatively, the assembly can be connected to an external
electrical power source, and electrically and electronically
designed for such purpose. Regardless of the type of power supply
employed, the power supply preferably provides sufficient energy
for the normal functioning of the assembly for at least one shisha
session until aerosol is depleted from the aerosol-forming
substrate in the cartridge before being recharged or needing to
connect to an external electrical power source. Preferably, the
power supply provides sufficient energy for the normal functioning
of the assembly for at least about 70 minutes of continuous
operation of the device, before being recharged or needing to
connect to an external electrical power source.
[0079] In one example, a shisha device includes an
aerosol-generating element that comprises a cartridge receptacle, a
heating element, an aerosol outlet, and a fresh air inlet. The
cartridge receptacle is configured to receive a cartridge
containing the aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may be as
above described. The heating element may define at least part of a
surface of the receptacle.
[0080] The shisha device comprises a fresh air inlet channel in
fluid connection with the receptacle. In use, fresh air flows
through the fresh air inlet channel to the receptacle and through
the cartridge disposed in the receptacle. Fresh air flowing through
the cartridge becomes entrained with aerosol generated from the
aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge. The fresh air entrained
with aerosol flows to the aerosol.
[0081] The fresh air inlet channel may comprise one or more
apertures through the cartridge receptacle such that fresh air from
outside the shisha device may flow through the channel and into the
cartridge receptacle through the one or more apertures. If a
channel comprises more than one aperture, the channel may comprise
a manifold to direct air flowing through the channel to each
aperture. Preferably, the shisha device comprises two or more fresh
air inlet channels.
[0082] As described above, the cartridge comprises one or more
inlets formed in the housing to allow air flow through the chambers
of the cartridge when in use. If the receptacle comprises one or
more inlet apertures, at least some of the inlets in the cartridge
may align with the apertures in the top of the receptacle. The
cartridge may comprise an alignment feature configured to mate with
a complementary alignment feature of the receptacle to align the
inlets of the cartridge with the apertures of the receptacle when
the cartridge is inserted into the receptacle.
[0083] Air that enters the cartridge flows across the
aerosol-forming substrate, entrains aerosol, and exits the
cartridge and receptacle via an aerosol outlet. From the aerosol
outlet, the air carrying the aerosol enters a vessel of the shisha
device.
[0084] The shisha device may comprise any suitable vessel defining
an interior volume configured to contain a liquid and defining an
outlet in head-space above a liquid fill level. The vessel may
comprise an optically transparent or opaque housing to allow a
consumer to observe contents contained in the vessel. The vessel
may comprise a liquid fill demarcation, such as a liquid fill line.
The vessel housing may be formed of any suitable material. For
example, the vessel housing may comprise glass or suitable rigid
plastic material. Preferably, the vessel is removable from a
portion of the shisha assembly comprising the aerosol-generation
element to allow a consumer to fill, empty or clean the vessel.
[0085] The vessel may be filled to a liquid fill level by a
consumer. The liquid preferably comprises water, which may
optionally be infused with one or more colorants, flavorants, or
colorant and flavorants. For example, the water may be infused with
one or both of botanical or herbal infusions.
[0086] Aerosol entrained in air exiting the aerosol outlet of the
receptacle may travel through a conduit positioned in the vessel.
The conduit may be coupled to the aerosol outlet of the aerosol
generating element of the shisha assembly and may have an opening
below the liquid fill level of the vessel, such that aerosol
flowing through the vessel flows through the opening of the
conduit, then through the liquid, into headspace of the vessel and
exits through a headspace outlet, for delivery to a consumer.
[0087] The headspace outlet may be coupled to a hose comprising a
mouthpiece for delivering the aerosol to a consumer. The mouthpiece
may comprise a switch activatable by a user or a puff sensor
operably coupled to the control electronics of the shisha device.
Preferably, the switch or puff sensor is wirelessly coupled to the
control electronics. Activation of a switch or puff sensor may
cause the control electronics to activate the heating element,
rather than constantly supplying energy to the heating element.
Accordingly, the use of a switch or puff sensor may serve to save
energy relative to devices not employing such elements to provide
on-demand heating rather than constant heating.
[0088] For purposes of example, one method for using a shisha
device as described herein is provided below in chronological
order. The vessel may be detached from other components of the
shisha device and filled with water. One or more of natural fruit
juices, botanicals, and herbal infusions may be added to the water
for flavoring. The amount of liquid added should cover a portion of
the conduit but should not exceed a fill level mark that may
optionally exist on the vessel. The vessel is then reassembled to
the shisha device. A portion of the aerosol generating element may
be removed or opened to allow the cartridge to be inserted into the
receptacle. The aerosol generating element is then reassembled or
closed. The device may then be turned on. Turning on the device may
initiate a heating profile of a heating element, to heat the
aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at or above a
vaporisation temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate, but
below a combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate.
The user may puff on the mouth piece as desired. The user may
continue using the device until no more aerosol is visible or being
delivered. In some embodiments, the device will automatically shut
off when the cartridge is depleted of usable aerosol-generating
substrate. In some embodiments, the consumer may refill the device
with a fresh cartridge after, for example, receiving the cue from
the device that the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is
depleted or nearly depleted. If refilled with a fresh cartridge,
the device may continue to be used. Preferably, the shisha device
may be turned off at any time by a consumer by, for example,
switching off the device.
[0089] The shisha device may have any suitable air management. In
one example, puffing action from the user will create a suction
effect causing a low pressure inside the device which will cause
external air to flow through air inlet of the device, into the
fresh air inlet channel, and into the receptacle. The air may then
flow through the cartridge in the receptacle to carry aerosol
produced from the aerosol-forming substrate. The air with entrained
aerosol then exits the aerosol outlet of the receptacle, flows
through the conduit to the liquid inside the vessel. The aerosol
will then bubble out of the liquid and into head space in the
vessel above the level of the liquid, out the headspace outlet, and
through the hose and mouthpiece for delivery to the consumer. The
flow of external air and the flow of the aerosol inside the shisha
device may be driven by the action of puffing from the user.
[0090] Reference will now be made to the drawings, which depict one
or more aspects described in this disclosure. However, it will be
understood that other aspects not depicted in the drawings fall
within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Like numbers used
in the figures refer to like components. However, it will be
understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a
given figure is not intended to limit the component in another
figure labeled with the same number. In addition, the use of
different numbers to refer to components in different figures is
not intended to indicate that the different numbered components
cannot be the same or similar to other numbered components. The
figures are presented for purposes of illustration and not
limitation. Schematic drawings presented in the figures are not
necessarily to scale.
[0091] FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a cartridge without
aerosol-forming substrate.
[0092] FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of a cartridge with
aerosol-forming substrate.
[0093] FIG. 3 is a top-down plan view of a top of a cartridge.
[0094] FIG. 4 is a bottom-up plan view of a bottom of a
cartridge.
[0095] FIG. 5 is schematic perspective view of a cartridge.
[0096] FIG. 6 is a schematic top-down plan view of a cartridge with
a top removed showing a thermal bridge disposed in a cavity.
[0097] FIG. 7 is a schematic top-down plan view of a cartridge with
a top removed showing a thermal bridge disposed in a cavity.
[0098] FIGS. 8-9 are schematic drawings of sectional views of
cartridges.
[0099] FIG. 10 is a schematic sectional view of a shisha
device.
[0100] FIG. 11A is an image of a thermal bridge used in a
cartridge.
[0101] FIG. 11B is a top-down image of a cartridge with its top
removed. The thermal bridge of FIG. 11A is disposed in the cavity
of the cartridge.
[0102] FIG. 11C is a side image of a cartridge having a sidewall
slit for accommodating a portion of the thermal bridge, such as the
thermal bridge depicted in FIG. 11A.
[0103] FIG. 11D is a side image of the cartridge depicted in FIG.
11C in which the thermal bridge of FIG. 11A is inserted.
[0104] FIG. 12 is a top-down image of a cartridge with its top
removed, revealing a thermal bridge disposed in the cavity.
[0105] FIG. 13 is a graph showing the total aerosol mass per puff
generated using a variety of cartridge designs.
[0106] FIG. 14 is a graph of heatable surface area (S.sub.H)
obtainable by cartridges having various dimensions, with and
without thermal bridges.
[0107] FIG. 15 is a plot of absolute and relative evaporated
molasses for various cartridge designs.
[0108] FIG. 16 is a plot of total aerosol mass produced for various
cartridge designs.
[0109] FIG. 17 is a plot of absolute and relative evaporated
molasses for cartridges containing different amounts of
molasses.
[0110] FIG. 18 is a plot of total aerosol mass produced for
cartridges containing different amounts of molasses.
[0111] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, a cartridge 200 has body 210
defining a cavity 218 in which an aerosol-forming substrate 300 may
be disposed. The body 210 includes a top 215, bottom 213, and a
sidewall 212. The body 210 may be formed from one or more parts.
For example, the top 215 or bottom 213 may be removably attached
from the sidewall 212 to allow the aerosol-forming substrate 300 to
be disposed in the cavity 218. The cartridge 200 has a length (I)
and width (w) referred to herein as the inner diameter. The
cartridge 200 has a heatable surface area (S.sub.H) inside the
cavity 215, which is a surface area capable of transferring heat
applied to the exterior of the body, for example, by a heating
element of a shisha device, to aerosol-forming substrate 300 in the
cavity 218. The cavity 218 has a volume such that the ratio of the
ratio of the heatable surface area (S.sub.H) of the body 210 to the
volume of the cavity 218 is in range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to
about 4 cm.sup.-1. The aerosol-forming substrate 300 occupies a
volume within the cavity 218. Preferably, the ratio of heatable
surface area of the body 210 in the cavity 218 (S.sub.H) to the
volume of the aerosol-forming substrate 300 in the cavity 218 is in
range from about 1 cm.sup.-1 to about 4 cm.sup.-1. Such ratios
allow for the aerosol-forming substrate 300 to produce desired
amount of aerosol mass without prematurely depleting the
aerosol-forming substrate 300.
[0112] Referring now to FIGS. 3-4, the top 215 and bottom 213 of
the body may have a plurality of apertures 217, 216 to allow air
flow through the cartridge, when the cartridge is in use. The
apertures 216, 217 of the top 215 and bottom 213 may be aligned.
The apertures 217, 216 may be blocked when the cartridge is stored
prior to use. For example, the apertures 216, 217 may be blocked by
a releasable liner (not shown).
[0113] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a cartridge 200.
The sidewall 212 defines a frustroconical shape. The bottom 213
defines a plurality of apertures to allow air flow through the
cartridge 200. The top comprises a flange 219 that extends from the
sidewall 212. The flange 219 may rest on shoulder of a receptacle
of a shisha device so that cartridge 200 may be readily removed
from the receptacle after use by grasping the flange.
[0114] FIG. 6 is a schematic top-down view into a cavity 218 of a
cartridge 200. A thermal bridge having two arms 221, 223 that span
the cavity 218 and contact the sidewall 212 is shown. The arms 221,
223 may also contact the bottom 213. The thermal bridge increases
the heatable surface area in the cavity 218 (S.sub.H) relative to a
cartridge of the same dimensions that does not include a thermal
bridge.
[0115] FIG. 7 is a schematic top-down view into a cavity 218 of a
cartridge 200. A cylindrical thermal bridge 220 is disposed in the
cavity 218. The thermal bridge 220 contacts the bottom 213 of the
cartridge 200. The thermal bridge 220 increases the heatable
surface area in the cavity 218 (S.sub.H) relative to a cartridge of
the same dimensions that does not include the thermal bridge.
[0116] FIGS. 8-9 are schematic sectional views of cartridges 200.
The cartridges 200 have a sidewall 212 a top 215 and a bottom 213
that together define a cavity 218 into which an aerosol generating
substrate (not shown) may be disposed. The cartridge 200 in FIG. 8
includes a generally flat bottom 213 with slightly rounded edges,
and the cartridge 200 in FIG. 9 includes a generally frustoconical
bottom 213. Otherwise, the cartridges 200 in FIGS. 8-9 are
substantially the same.
[0117] The cartridges 200 have a flange 219 at the top 215. The
flange 219 may rest on a shoulder of a receptacle of a shisha
device so that cartridge 200 may be readily removed from the
receptacle after use by grasping the flange. The flange may also
help to prevent over-insertion of the cartridge 200 into the
receptacle.
[0118] The cavity 218 has a maximum inner width (Wt) and a height
(h). In the case of a frustoconical shaped cartridge 200, the
maximum inner width (Wt) may be substantially at the top of the
cartridge 200. The maximum inner width (Wt) in the example
illustrated in FIG. 8 may be about 2.98 cm, and the height (h) may
be about 3.63 cm. The bottom of the cavity 218 has a width (Wb).
The width of the bottom of the cavity (Wb) may be about 2.43
cm.
[0119] The bottom 213 of the container 200 in FIG. 9 is generally
frustoconical. As can be seen in FIG. 9, width Wb is generally
measured at a position where the angle of the sidewall 212 changes
plane. In some embodiments, such as the example of FIG. 9, the
sidewall of the bottom portion 213 deviates from a flat bottom at
an angle .beta.. Angle .beta. may be about 18.degree.. The width
(Wc) of the smaller bottom portion may be about 0.84 cm. We may be
measured at a longitudinal position at which the width of the
cavity is at a minimum. In the example of FIG. 9, the maximum inner
width (Wt) may be about 2.98 cm, the height (h) may be about 3.83
cm, the bottom width (Wb) may be about 2.43 cm and the width of the
smaller bottom portion (Wc) may be about 0.84 cm.
[0120] The body of the cartridges 200 in FIGS. 8-9 are generally
frustoconical. The sidewalls 212 deviate from the longitudinal axis
at an angle .alpha.. Angle .alpha. may be about 4.5.degree..
[0121] The cartridge 200 in FIG. 8 has in internal surface area
defined by the sidewalls 212, the top 215, and the bottom 213 of
about 41.5 cm.sup.2. The internal surface area of the cavity 218
defined by the sidewalls 212 only is about 29.6 cm.sup.2. The
volume defined by the cavity 218 is about 20.6 cm.sup.3. The ratio
of the internal surface area of the cavity 218 defined by the
sidewalls 212 to the volume defined by the cavity 218 is about 1.4
cm.sup.-1. The ratio of the internal surface area of the cavity 218
defined by the sidewalls 212, the top 215, and the bottom 213 to
the volume defined by the cavity 218 is about 2 cm.sup.-1.
[0122] The cartridge 200 in FIG. 9 has in internal surface area
defined by the sidewalls 212, the top 215, and the bottom 213 of
about 42 cm.sup.2. The internal surface area of the cavity 218
defined by the sidewalls 212 only is about 29.9 cm.sup.2. The
volume defined by the cavity 218 is about 21.4 cm.sup.3. The ratio
of the internal surface area of the cavity 218 defined by the
sidewalls 212 to the volume defined by the cavity 218 is about 1.4
cm.sup.-1. The ratio of the internal surface area of the cavity 218
defined by the sidewalls 212, the top 215, and the bottom 213 to
the volume defined by the cavity 218 is about 2 cm.sup.-1.
[0123] FIG. 10 is a schematic sectional view of an example of a
shisha device 100. The device 100 includes a vessel 17 defining an
interior volume configured to contain liquid 19 and defining a
headspace outlet 15 above a fill level for the liquid 19. The
liquid 19 preferably comprises water, which may optionally be
infused with one or more colorants, one or more flavorants, or one
or more colorants and one or more flavorants. For example, the
water may be infused with one or both of botanical infusions or
herbal infusions.
[0124] The device 100 also includes an aerosol-generating element
130. The aerosol-generating element 130 includes a receptacle 140
configured to receive a cartridge 200 containing an
aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating element 130
also includes a heating element 160 that forms at least one surface
of the receptacle 140. In the depicted embodiment, the heating
element 160 defines the top and side surfaces of the receptacle
140. The aerosol-generating element 130 also includes a fresh air
inlet channel 170 that draws fresh air into the device 100. A
portion of the fresh air inlet channel 170 is formed by the heating
element 160 to heat the air before the air enters the receptacle
140. The pre-heated air then enters the cartridge 150 (or substrate
that is not a cartridge), which is also heated by heating element
160, to carry aerosol generated by aerosol generating substrate.
The air exits an outlet of the aerosol-generating element 130 and
enters a conduit 190.
[0125] The conduit 190 carries the air and aerosol into the vessel
17 below the level of the liquid 19. The air and aerosol may bubble
through the liquid 19 and exit the headspace outlet 15 of the
vessel 17. A hose 20 may be attached to the headspace outlet 15 to
carry the aerosol to the mouth of a user. A mouthpiece 25 may be
attached to, or form a part of, the hose 20.
[0126] The air flow path of the device, in use, is depicted by
thick arrows in FIG. 10.
[0127] The mouthpiece 25 may include an activation element 27. The
activation element 27 may be a switch, button or the like, or may
be a puff sensor or the like. The activation element 27 may be
placed at any other suitable location of the device 100. The
activation element 27 may be in wireless communication with the
control electronics 30 to place the device 100 in condition for use
or to cause control electronics to activate the heating element
160; for example, by causing power supply 35 to energize the
heating element 140.
[0128] The control electronics 30 and power supply 35 may be
located in any suitable position of the aerosol generating element
130 other than the bottom portion of the element 130 as depicted in
FIG. 1.
[0129] FIGS. 11-18 are discussed below in the Examples. FIG. 11A is
an image of an embodiment of a thermal bridge used in a cartridge.
FIG. 11B is a top-down image of an embodiment of a cartridge with
its top removed. The thermal bridge of FIG. 9A is disposed in the
cavity of the cartridge in FIG. 11B. FIG. 11C is a side image of an
embodiment of a cartridge having a sidewall slit for accommodating
a portion of the thermal bridge, such as the thermal bridge
depicted in FIG. 11A. FIG. 11D is a side image of the cartridge
depicted in FIG. 11C in which the thermal bridge of FIG. 11A is
inserted. FIG. 12 is a top-down image of an embodiment of a
cartridge with its top removed, revealing a thermal bridge disposed
in the cavity. FIG. 13 is a graph showing the total aerosol mass
per puff generated using a variety of cartridge designs. FIG. 14 is
a graph of heatable surface area (S.sub.H) obtainable by cartridges
having various dimensions, with and without thermal bridges. FIG.
15 is a plot of absolute and relative evaporated molasses for
various cartridge designs. FIG. 16 is a plot of total aerosol mass
produced for various cartridge designs. FIG. 17 is a plot of
absolute and relative evaporated molasses for cartridges containing
different amounts of molasses. FIG. 18 is a plot of total aerosol
mass produced for cartridges containing different amounts of
molasses.
[0130] The specific embodiments described above are intended to
illustrate the invention. However, other embodiments may be made
without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the
claims, and it is to be understood that the specific embodiments
described above are not intended to be limiting.
[0131] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the"
encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content
clearly dictates otherwise.
[0132] As used herein, "or" is generally employed in its sense
including "and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
The term "and/or" means one or all the listed elements or a
combination of any two or more of the listed elements.
[0133] As used herein, "have," "having," "include," "including,"
"comprise," "comprising" or the like are used in their open-ended
sense, and generally mean "including, but not limited to". It will
be understood that "consisting essentially of," "consisting of,"
and the like are subsumed in "comprising," and the like.
[0134] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments
of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain
circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred,
under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation
of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other
embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other
embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, including the
claims.
[0135] Any direction referred to herein, such as "top," "bottom,"
"left," "right," "upper," "lower," and other directions or
orientations are described herein for clarity and brevity are not
intended to be limiting of an actual device or system. Devices and
systems described herein may be used in a number of directions and
orientations.
EXAMPLES
Example 1: Cylindrical Cartridges
[0136] Presented below are non-limiting examples illustrating the
effect of various cartridge designs on production of aerosol from
aerosol-forming substrate disposed in shisha cartridges. Each
cartridge contained 10 g of commercially available tobacco molasses
(Al-Fakher) having a calculated volume of about 31.5 cm.sup.3.
[0137] Three cartridge designs were tested. Each cartridge was
cylindrical and made from aluminium. The cartridges had a length of
55 mm and an inner diameter of 27 mm. One cartridge contained no
thermal bridge and had a heatable surface area in the cavity
(S.sub.H) of about 52 cm.sup.2. Another cartridge included a 0.2 mm
thick copper plate (see FIGS. 11A-D) in the shape of a T, which
spanned the cavity to provide a total S.sub.H of about 69 cm.sup.2.
Another cartridge further included a 0.2 mm thick copper plate
having an S shaped cross section that spanned the cavity (see FIG.
12) to provide a S.sub.H of about 90 cm.sup.2.
[0138] The cartridges were placed in communication with a conduit.
A frustroconical nozzle made of high temperature epoxy resin having
an exit orifice of 3 mm was incorporated into the conduit. The exit
orifice of the nozzle was about 55 mm from cartridge outlet. The
conduit extended below a liquid level in a vessel. Aerosol exiting
an outlet in communication with a headspace above the liquid level
of the vessel was collected.
[0139] The cartridges were heated using a wire wound heating
element set at a constant temperature of 200 degree Celsius.
[0140] The generated aerosol was collected using a total of 10
Cambridge pads whose weight was recorded before and after the
shisha experience. The total duration of the experience corresponds
to 105 puffs. To achieve the desired puffing experience, four
Programmable Dual Syringe Pumps (PDSP) manufactured by Pomac BV
(Tolbert, Groninen, Netherlands) were used simultaneously to create
the following puffing regime: [0141] Puff volume: 530 mL [0142]
Puff duration: 2600 ms [0143] Duration between puffs: 17 s
[0144] The experimental setup was arranged such that only two of
the ten Cambridge pads collect the generated aerosol at a given
moment. Every 21 puffs, a check valve ensured that the aerosol was
diverted to the correct pair of Cambridge pads. As a consequence,
the production of aerosol could be monitored as a function of
time.
[0145] The evaporated mass of the molasses was determined by
comparing the weight of the molasses before and after the shisha
experience.
[0146] In addition, the total aerosol mass and evaporated mass was
determined for a charcoal operated shisha using similar
conditions.
[0147] The results from the various cartridge designs are shown in
FIG. 13 and Table 1. In FIG. 13 the TAM per puff is shown after the
initial 20 puffs. In FIG. 13, the curve labeled (1) represents the
results from the charcoal operated shisha device, the curve labeled
(2) represents the cartridge having the S.sub.H of about 52
cm.sup.2, the curve labeled (3) represents the cartridge having the
S.sub.H of about 69 cm.sup.2, and the curve labeled (4) represents
the cartridge having the S.sub.H of about 90 cm.sup.2.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 TAM and mass evaporated Cartridge Cartridge
Cartridge (S.sub.H = 52 cm.sup.2) (S.sub.H = 69 cm.sup.2) (S.sub.H
= 90 cm.sup.2) Puff Charcoal (mg/puff) (mg/puff) (mg/puff) 20 12.7
8.7 9.5 12.0 40 17.8 12.7 14.5 17.0 60 18.3 15.9 18.0 19.7 80 16.6
16.9 18.9 20.3 106 14.6 17.3 19.2 19.2 Total 1696 mg 1370 mg 1684
mg 1853 mg Evapo- 3.5 g 2.8 g 3.41 g 3.97 g rated
[0148] The cartridges tested had a ratio of S.sub.H to volume of
aerosol-forming substrate (tobacco molasses) of between 1.5
cm.sup.-1 (for the S.sub.H=52 cm.sup.2 cartridge) and 3 cm.sup.-1
(for the S.sub.H=90 cm.sup.2).
[0149] The charcoal operated shisha used for these experiments
consumed 3.5 g having a S.sub.H of 25 cm.sup.2. Since the thermal
transfer through convection is much smaller in the electric shisha,
only 2.8 g are consumed for S.sub.H=52 cm.sup.2. As a consequence,
the total TAM collected for the electrically heated shisha is only
.about.80% of the charcoal operated shisha for this cartridge (1700
mg vs. 1370 mg). Notably, the aerosol mass production was
substantially less during the first 21 puffs where a TAM of 8.7
mg/puff was collected for the S.sub.H=52 cm.sup.2 cartridge
relative to the 12.7 mg/puff obtained with the charcoal operated
shisha. However, increasing S.sub.H to 90 cm.sup.2 brought the
results obtained with the electric shisha to values similar to the
charcoal operated shisha. In this case, the consumption of molasses
increased to 3.9 g and the total TAM collected to 1850 mg, and the
TAM collected during the first puffs increases to 12.0 mg/puff.
[0150] To illustrate design considerations to achieve a desired
ratio of S.sub.H to volume of aerosol-forming substrate, reference
is made to FIG. 14. In FIG. 14, the bottom trace indicates the
S.sub.H calculated for a cylinder with a volume of 31.5 cm.sup.3 of
different diameters. The corresponding length is shown on the upper
x-axis. The calculated results show that cartridges with a length
of almost 18 cm are needed to achieve a S.sub.H of 90 cm.sup.2 if
not thermal bridge is employed. However, such lengths are not
practical for most shisha devices.
[0151] The trace labelled D/3 indicates the S.sub.H calculated for
a cylinder having the same dimensions as the bottom trace, but with
a cylindrical thermal bridge having a diameter equivalent to a
third of the cartridge's diameter. The trace labelled D/2 indicates
the S.sub.H calculated for a cylinder having the same dimensions as
the bottom trace, but with a cylindrical thermal bridge having a
diameter equivalent to half the cartridges diameter. As shown, the
thermal bridges quickly increase the S.sub.H to provide a cartridge
having more desirable dimensions. For example, the cartridges may
have a length of less than 10 cm and have a S.sub.H of 90
cm.sup.2.
Example 2: Frustroconical Cartridges
[0152] The effect of cartridge shape on various performance aspects
were tested. The performance of cartridges having various
frustroconical designs were compared to a cylindrical
cartridge.
[0153] The cartridges were cylindrical and made from aluminium. The
cylindrical cartridge had a length of 41.25 mm and an inner
diameter of 27 mm (C 27). The frustroconical cartridges each had a
length of 41.25 mm and an upper inner diameter of 27 mm. The lower
inner diameters of the frustroconical cartridges were 22 mm (LD
22), 18 mm (LD 18) and 14 mm (LD 14). The tops and bottoms of each
cartridge contained 19 holes, each hole having a 2 mm diameter.
[0154] Substrate temperature and total aerosol mass produced from
each cartridge was tested as indicated in Example 1 above.
[0155] In one experiment, each cartridge contained 10 g of
commercially available tobacco molasses (Al-Fakher), and the
temperature of the substrate was monitored as the cartridge was
heated, and the time for the substrate to reach 80.degree. C. was
determined. The results are presented below in Table 2.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Amount of time for substrate to reach
80.degree. C. Cartridge Time (min) C 27 4 LD 22 4.5 LD 18 5 LD 14
5.5
[0156] The time to reach 80.degree. C. may be directly related to
time to first puff. Accordingly, a cylindrical cartridge (C 27) may
allow for more rapid initial heating and allow for the first puff
to be taken more quickly. However, the longer times associated with
the frustroconical cartridges (LD 22, LD 18, and LD 14) may more
closely mimic time to first puff associated with conventional
charcoal-based shisha devices and thus may maintain certain ritual
aspects of such conventional devices.
[0157] In another experiment, C 27, LD 22, and LD 18 cartridges
containing 10 g of molasses were heated and total aerosol mass and
mass of evaporated molasses were measured.
[0158] Relative to the C 27 cartridge, the LD 22 cartridge was
heated for an additional 30 seconds prior to testing and the LD 18
cartridge was heated for an additional 60 seconds based on the
results presented in Table 2 above.
[0159] The mass of evaporated molasses is shown in FIG. 15, and the
total aerosol mass produced is shown in FIG. 16. As shown in FIG.
16, the most total aerosol mass was observed with the LD 22
cartridge. As indicted in FIG. 15, the amount of evaporated
molasses increased with decreasing lower diameters of the
cartridges.
[0160] In another experiment, the total aerosol mass and evaporated
molasses was measured for a C 27 cartridge containing 10 g of
molasses and for LD 22 cartridges containing 10 g, 8 g, and 6 g of
molasses. Relative to the C 27 cartridge, the LD 22 cartridges were
heated for an additional 30 seconds prior to testing based on the
results presented in Table 2 above.
[0161] The mass of evaporated molasses is shown in FIG. 17, and the
total aerosol mass produced is shown in FIG. 18. As shown in FIG.
18, the total aerosol mass was similar between LD 22 cartridges
containing 10 g and 8 g of molasses, suggesting that less molasses
may be employed. In addition, the LD 22 cartridges containing 6 g
of molasses exhibited increased total aerosol mass for the first
sixty puffs relative to the C 27 cartridge containing 10 g of
molasses, suggesting that shape of cartridge may have a substantial
impact on total aerosol production and amount of molasses that may
be employed.
[0162] Thus, cartridges for shisha devices are described. Various
modifications and variations of the invention will be apparent to
those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and
spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described
in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be
understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly
limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications
of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are
apparent to those skilled in the mechanical arts, chemical arts,
and aerosol generating article manufacturing or related fields are
intended to be within the scope of the following claims.
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