U.S. patent application number 17/596298 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-29 for aerosol provision device.
The applicant listed for this patent is NICOVENTURES TRADING LIMITED. Invention is credited to Walid ABI AOUN, Jeremy CAMPBELL, Barry DIMMICK, William ENGLAND, Charles LEONI, Conor John MCGRATH, Barnaby OAKLEY, Jack QUARMBY, Michael THOMAS, Luke WARREN, Robert John WHIFFEN.
Application Number | 20220304380 17/596298 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006436138 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220304380 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WHIFFEN; Robert John ; et
al. |
September 29, 2022 |
AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE
Abstract
An aerosol provision device includes a housing delimiting a
first opening at a first end of the housing through which to
receive aerosol generating material and delimiting a second opening
at a second end of the housing. A chamber is positioned between the
second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the
chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material.
At least one heater is arranged within the housing and configured
to heat aerosol generating material received within the chamber
thereby to generate an aerosol. An absorbent material for absorbing
liquid is provided.
Inventors: |
WHIFFEN; Robert John;
(Shenzen, CN) ; ABI AOUN; Walid; (London, GB)
; CAMPBELL; Jeremy; (London, GB) ; DIMMICK;
Barry; (London, GB) ; ENGLAND; William;
(London, GB) ; MCGRATH; Conor John; (London,
GB) ; OAKLEY; Barnaby; (London, GB) ; THOMAS;
Michael; (London, GB) ; WARREN; Luke; (London,
GB) ; QUARMBY; Jack; (London, GB) ; LEONI;
Charles; (London, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NICOVENTURES TRADING LIMITED |
London |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006436138 |
Appl. No.: |
17/596298 |
Filed: |
June 10, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
June 10, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2020/065737 |
371 Date: |
December 7, 2021 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A24F 40/85 20200101;
A24F 40/60 20200101; A24F 40/42 20200101; A24F 40/20 20200101; A24F
40/485 20200101 |
International
Class: |
A24F 40/42 20060101
A24F040/42; A24F 40/20 20060101 A24F040/20; A24F 40/485 20060101
A24F040/485; A24F 40/85 20060101 A24F040/85; A24F 40/60 20060101
A24F040/60 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 10, 2019 |
CN |
PCT/CN2019/090590 |
Claims
1. An aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a
first opening at a first end of the housing, through which to
receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a second
opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positioned
between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least
part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating
material; at least one heater arranged within the housing and
configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the
chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and an absorbent material
for absorbing liquid; wherein, in use, the aerosol is drawn along a
flow path through the chamber towards the first opening and the
absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream of the
at least part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol
generating material.
2. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further
comprising a cover movable between a first position in which the
second opening is blocked by the cover, and a second position in
which the second opening is not blocked by the cover.
3. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein: the
cover comprises a recess; and the absorbent material is arranged at
least partially in the recess.
4. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein, in
use, the absorbent material is at least partially positioned
between the aerosol generating material and the cover.
5. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein the
cover is detachable from the aerosol provision device.
6. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the
absorbent material comprises foam, sponge, paper or cellulose
acetate.
7. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the
absorbent material has an absorption capacity of at least 7 grams
of water per gram of absorbent material.
8. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the
absorbent material is at least partially arranged within a section
of the chamber.
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein at
least a portion of the absorbent material is gas permeable.
12. (canceled)
13. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the
absorbent material comprises a through-hole for air to pass
through.
14. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further
comprising an absorbent member which comprises the absorbent
material supported by a substrate.
15. (canceled)
16. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further
comprising a brush which comprises the absorbent material.
17. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the
chamber comprises a barrier to separate the aerosol generating
material from the absorbent material.
18. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, further
comprising a hydrophobic material arranged within the housing to
substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol
provision device.
19. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein at
least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic, or comprises a
hydrophobic coating, to encourage the liquid to flow towards the
absorbent material.
20. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein at
least a portion of the absorbent material is configured to provide
a visual indication to indicate that the absorbent material is
ready to be replaced or cleaned.
21. (canceled)
22. (canceled)
23. An absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosol
provision device, the absorbent member comprising: an absorbent
material supported by a substrate, wherein the absorbent material
is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber or a
door of the aerosol provision device adjacent aerosol generating
material.
24-29. (canceled)
30. An aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a
first opening at a first end of the housing, through which to
receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a second
opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positioned
between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least
part of the chamber is configured to receive aerosol generating
material; at least one heater arranged within the housing,
configured to heat the aerosol generating material received within
the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and a hydrophobic
material arranged within the housing to substantially prevent
liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device; wherein,
in use, the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first
opening.
31. The aerosol provision device according to claim 30, further
comprising a cover movable between a first position in which the
second opening is blocked by the cover and a second position in
which the second opening is not blocked by the cover, wherein the
hydrophobic material is configured to substantially prevent liquid
from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in the first
position.
32-39. (canceled)
40. The aerosol provision device according to claim 30, further
comprising an absorbent material.
41-50. (canceled)
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT
Application No. PCT/EP2020/065737, filed Jun. 5, 2020, which claims
priority from CN PCT Patent Application No. PCT/CN2019/090590,
filed Jun. 10, 2019, each of which is hereby fully incorporated
herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol provision
device and an absorbent member for an aerosol provision device.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like
burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been
made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by
creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples
of such products are heating devices which release compounds by
heating, but not burning, the material. The material may be for
example tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not
contain nicotine.
SUMMARY
[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing
delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing, through
which to receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a
second opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positioned
between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least
part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating
material; at least one heater arranged within the housing and
configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the
chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and an absorbent material
for absorbing liquid; wherein, in use, the aerosol is drawn along a
flow path through the chamber towards the first opening and the
absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream of the
part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating
material.
[0005] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure,
there is provided an absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an
aerosol provision device, the absorbent member comprising an
absorbent material supported by a substrate, wherein the absorbent
member is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber
of the aerosol provision device adjacent aerosol generating
material.
[0006] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing
delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing, through
which to receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting a
second opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positioned
between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least
part of the chamber is configured to receive aerosol generating
material; at least one heater arranged within the housing,
configured to heat the aerosol generating material received within
the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and a hydrophobic
material arranged within the housing to substantially prevent
liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device; wherein,
in use, the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first
opening.
[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure,
there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a
housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing,
through which to receive aerosol generating material, and
delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing; a
chamber positioned between the second opening and the first
opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to
receive the aerosol generating material; at least one heater
arranged within the housing and configured to heat aerosol
generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate
an aerosol; and a removable cover configured to receive liquid from
the chamber, the removable cover being attachable to the aerosol
provision device in a position in which the second opening is
blocked by the cover.
[0008] Further features and advantages of the disclosure will
become apparent from the following description of various
embodiments of the disclosure, given by way of example only, which
is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 shows a front view of an example of an aerosol
provision device.
[0010] FIG. 2 shows a front view of the aerosol provision device of
FIG. 1 with an outer cover removed.
[0011] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision
device of FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of the aerosol provision
device of FIG. 2.
[0013] FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of a heating assembly
within an aerosol provision device.
[0014] FIG. 5B shows a close-up view of a portion of the heating
assembly of FIG. 5A.
[0015] FIG. 6A shows a perspective view of the bottom end of the
aerosol provision device with a door providing access to a second
opening.
[0016] FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of the bottom end of the
aerosol provision device with the door omitted.
[0017] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision
device with certain components of the heating assembly omitted.
[0018] FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent
member arranged within a chamber of the aerosol provision
device.
[0019] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the absorbent member of
FIG. 8.
[0020] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a second absorbent
member arranged within a recess of a door of the aerosol provision
device.
[0021] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the absorbent member of
FIG. 10.
[0022] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a third absorbent
member.
[0023] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a fourth absorbent
member.
[0024] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer
according to an example.
[0025] FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of a hydrophobic
layer arranged within a recess of a closed door of the aerosol
provision device.
[0026] FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic representation of a hydrophobic
layer arranged within a recess of an open door of the aerosol
provision device.
[0027] FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an absorbent member
arranged on a hydrophobic layer according to an example.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating material"
includes materials that provide volatilized components upon
heating, typically in the form of an aerosol. Aerosol generating
material includes any tobacco-containing material and may, for
example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives,
expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes.
Aerosol generating material also may include other, non-tobacco,
products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain
nicotine. Aerosol generating material may for example be in the
form of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax or the like. Aerosol
generating material may for example also be a combination or a
blend of materials. Aerosol generating material may also be known
as "smokable material".
[0029] Apparatus is known that heats aerosol generating material to
volatilize at least one component of the aerosol generating
material, typically to form an aerosol which can be inhaled,
without burning or combusting the aerosol generating material. Such
apparatus is sometimes described as an "aerosol generating device",
an "aerosol provision device", a "heat-not-burn device", a "tobacco
heating product device" or a "tobacco heating device" or similar.
Similarly, there are also so-called e-cigarette devices, which
typically vaporize an aerosol generating material in the form of a
liquid, which may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol
generating material may be in the form of or be provided as part of
a rod, cartridge or cassette or the like which can be inserted into
the apparatus. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol
generating material may be provided as a "permanent" part of the
apparatus.
[0030] An aerosol provision device can receive an article
comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An "article" in
this context is a component that includes or contains in use the
aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilize the
aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in
use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol provision
device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user
subsequently inhales. The article may be, for example, of a
predetermined or specific size that is configured to be placed
within a heating chamber of the device which is sized to receive
the article.
[0031] Articles, for instance those in the shape of rods, are often
named according to the product length: "regular" (typically in the
range 68-75 mm, e.g. from about 68 mm to about 72 mm), "short" or
"mini" (68 mm or less), "king size" (typically in the range 75-91
mm, e.g. from about 79 mm to about 88 mm), "long" or "super-king"
(typically in the range 91-105 mm, e.g. from about 94 mm to about
101 mm) and "ultra-long" (typically in the range from about 110 mm
to about 121 mm).
[0032] They are also named according to the product circumference:
"regular" (about 23-25 mm), "wide" (greater than 25 mm), "slim"
(about 22-23 mm), "demi-slim" (about 19-22 mm), "super-slim" (about
16-19 mm), and "micro-slim" (less than about 16 mm).
[0033] Accordingly, an article in a king-size, super-slim format
will, for example, have a length of about 83 mm and a circumference
of about 17 mm.
[0034] Each format may be produced with mouthpieces of different
lengths. The mouthpiece length will typically be from about 10 mm
to 50 mm. A tipping paper connects the mouthpiece to the aerosol
generating material and will usually have a greater length than the
mouthpiece, for example from 3 to 10 mm longer, such that the
tipping paper covers the mouthpiece and overlaps the aerosol
generating material, for instance in the form of a rod of substrate
material, to connect the mouthpiece to the rod.
[0035] Articles and their aerosol generating materials and
mouthpieces described herein can be made in, but are not limited
to, any of the above formats.
[0036] A first aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol
provision device comprising an absorbent material for absorbing
liquid, such as liquid residue. It has been found that when an
article comprising aerosol generating material is heated within a
chamber of the device, aerosol can cool and condense inside the
device. For example, aerosol can condense on inner surfaces of the
chamber. This condensate or liquid can run down the inside of the
chamber and collect at the bottom of the device. In some examples,
the bottom of the device comprises a door or cover, also known as a
cleanout door, which allows a user to access the chamber for
cleaning. The liquid may leak out of the cover when it is opened.
In other examples, the cover (or the bottom of the device) may
comprise one or more air inlets. The liquid may leak out of the air
inlets during use or when the device is being stored. Furthermore,
the liquid may leak out of air gaps around the outside of the
cover. It is desirable to reduce the leakage of any liquid out of
the device.
[0037] In some examples, leakage is reduced by absorbing liquid
before it can leak out of the device. Accordingly, one or more
absorbing/absorbent members/materials may be arranged within the
device to absorb any liquid that forms or gathers within the
chamber. Once absorbed by the absorbent material, the liquid may
then evaporate during storage periods or be substantially retained
within the absorbent material. The absorbent material may be
removable from the device, so that it can be cleaned and replaced
within the device; emptied and replaced within the device; emptied,
cleaned and replaced within the device; or disposed of and replaced
with a new absorbent material.
[0038] An example aerosol provision device comprises a housing,
where the housing/device delimits a first opening at a first end
through which to receive aerosol generating material. The
housing/device further delimits a second opening at a second end of
the housing/device. The second opening may allow a user to access
the device for cleaning. The housing may be at least partially
defined by an outer cover and one or more end members, for example.
The first opening may be arranged at a mouth end of the device. The
second opening may be arranged at a distal end of the device. The
second end may be opposed from the first end.
[0039] A chamber may be positioned between the second opening and
the first opening. The chamber may be defined by one or more
components. For example, the chamber may be at least partially
defined by a susceptor or other heating component. The chamber may
additionally or alternatively be at least partially defined by a
hollow member, which may also be known as a cleanout tube or a
support. The hollow member may support the susceptor. At least part
of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating
material. For example, the susceptor may receive the aerosol
generating material. The chamber may define a flow path or through
hole between the first and second openings.
[0040] As mentioned, the device comprises an absorbent material for
absorbing liquid. The absorbent material can be arranged closer to
the second opening than it is to the first opening and/or at least
partially positioned upstream in the flow path of the part of the
chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material. The
aerosol is generated by heating the aerosol generating material and
is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening as a user
inhales on the device. Accordingly, the absorbent material is
arranged upstream of the aerosol flow path. The absorbent material
is therefore arranged close to the distal end of the device and
absorbs liquid which flows towards the distal end of the device.
Phrased differently, the chamber may define a first section to
receive the aerosol generating material. The first section may be a
heating section, for example. The absorbent material may be
arranged in the device between the first section and the second
opening or the cover. The distal end of the device may be the
bottom end of the device which is furthest from a user's mouth in
use, for example. Liquid may flow towards the distal end of the
device due to gravity. Condensation may form towards the distal end
of the device because this region is cooler than the mouth end of
the device. When the device is in use (i.e. during a heating
session), the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the
first opening.
[0041] The device comprises at least one heater arranged within the
housing, where the heater is configured to heat aerosol generating
material received within the housing/chamber to generate an
aerosol. The heater may be known as a heater/heating assembly. The
heater may be an inductive heater or a resistive heater. In some
examples, the heater may comprise one or more inductor coils. Each
inductor coil may be arranged to generate a varying magnetic field,
which penetrates a susceptor. As will be discussed in more detail
herein, a susceptor is an electrically conducting object, which is
heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. An article
comprising aerosol generating material can be received within the
susceptor, or be arranged near to, or in contact with the
susceptor. Once heated, the susceptor transfers heat to the aerosol
generating material, which releases aerosol. The heater may
comprise the susceptor.
[0042] The device may comprise a cover or door that is movable
between a first position in which the second opening is blocked,
covered or closed by the cover, and a second position in which the
second opening is open, not covered or not blocked). The second
opening is "open" as long as access to the second opening is
possible, for example the second opening may still be partially
covered by the cover. In some examples in the second position
access to the opening is substantially unobstructed by the cover. A
user may open the cover to clean the device or to replace the
absorbent material.
[0043] The chamber may have a first section to receive the aerosol
generating material and a second section to receive the absorbent
material. Thus, the absorbent material may be arranged at least
partially within the chamber.
[0044] The cover may comprise a recess, and the absorbent material
may be arranged at least partially in the recess. The recess may
also stop liquid from leaking out of the device even if the
absorbent material is saturated. The recess within the cover can
allow the absorbent material to be more easily removed and
inspected by a user. For example, the cover can be opened, and a
user can check whether the absorbent material needs to be cleaned
or replaced without needing to touch the absorbent material or
remove it from the chamber. In addition, by arranging the absorbent
material in the cover, the liquid is collected further away from
the heater, which may keep the inside of the device/chamber cleaner
and provide more opportunity for any liquid to evaporate before it
reaches the absorbent material.
[0045] In some examples, the cover is detachable from the device.
This can allow the user to more easily dispose of the absorbent
material, and/or to pour any excess liquid out of the recess. The
cover may be fully detachable from the device.
[0046] In one example, the cover delimits one or more apertures for
air to pass through, and the apertures may be arranged outside of
the recessed portion of the cover. Thus, even when the absorbent
material is saturated, the liquid is substantially prevented from
leaking out of the cover. The one or more apertures may be known as
air inlets.
[0047] In use, the absorbent material may be at least partially
positioned between the aerosol generating material and the cover.
That is, the absorbent material and aerosol generating material may
be arranged within the device at the same time. For example, the
aerosol generating material may be arranged within a first section
of the chamber and the absorbent material may be arranged in a
second section of the chamber, or may be arranged in the recess of
the cover. This allows the liquid to be absorbed when the device is
being used (i.e. during a heating session).
[0048] The absorbent material may comprise foam, such as
Polyurethane foam and High Density Polyurethane foam, sponge, paper
or cellulose acetate. These materials are lightweight, absorbent
and relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
[0049] The absorbent material may comprise a filamentary tow
material, also referred to as fibrous material, which can comprise
cellulose acetate fiber tow. The filamentary tow can also be formed
using other materials used to form fibers, such as polyvinyl
alcohol (PVOH), polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL),
poly(1-4 butanediol succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene
adipate-co-terephthalate)(PBAT), starch based materials, cotton,
aliphatic polyester materials and polysaccharide polymers or a
combination thereof. The filamentary tow may be plasticized with a
suitable plasticizer for the tow, such as triacetin where the
material is cellulose acetate tow, or the tow may be
non-plasticized. Unless otherwise described, the tow can have any
suitable specification, such as fibers having a `Y` shaped or other
cross section such as `X` shaped, filamentary denier values between
2 and 20 denier per filament, for example between 4 and 14 denier
per filament and total denier values of 5,000 to 50,000, for
example between 10,000 and 40,000.
[0050] The absorbent material may have an absorption capacity of at
least 7 grams of water per gram of absorbent material. In other
example the absorption capacity may be at least 10 grams per gram
or at least 15 grams per gram. Absorption capacity measures the
weight of liquid which can be held by the material without leakage.
Higher capacities are preferred to ensure that the absorbent
material can retain a sufficient volume of liquid that might be
encountered in use without leaking. For example, a higher
absorption capacity allows more use of the aerosol provision device
before the absorbent material needs to be emptied or replaced. In
some examples, a hydrophilic polyurethane foam which is
commercially available from Freudenberg Performance Materials,
headquartered in Weinheim, Germany under the trade name Freudenberg
1012 is used. This has an absorption capacity of 20 grams per
gram.
[0051] Absorption capacity in this case is measured by pouring
water on a test piece of absorbent material, such as foam piece
with a flat upper surface. The test piece rests on a surface of a
weighing scale and is not constrained, for example the test piece
is free to expand in size. The water is added until water is
observed to leak from the absorbent material or pool on top of the
absorbent material. This indicates that the foam is saturated and
the absorption capacity has been reached. The weight at this point
is recorded and used to calculate the absorption capacity based on
the known weight of the dry foam tested.
[0052] The absorbent material may be at least partially arranged in
a section of the chamber. In some examples, the section of the
chamber and at least a portion of the absorbent material may have
corresponding cross-sectional shapes. This allows the absorbent
material to be received within the chamber and provide a good fit,
thereby reducing leakage. In a particular example the chamber and
absorbent material have a circular cross-sectional shape.
[0053] The section of the chamber may be tubular, and at least a
portion of the absorbent material may be tubular. This allows
better airflow through absorbent material. In a particular example,
the section of the chamber is a cylindrical tube and the at least a
portion of the absorbent material is a cylindrical tube.
[0054] At least a portion of the absorbent material may be gas
permeable. This allows air to be drawn through the absorbent
material. A gas permeable absorbent material can allow gas to pass
through it, for example in the direction towards the part of the
chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material. The
action of drawing through a gas permeable absorbent material may
also cause any liquid within it to be drawn towards the first end
and away from the second end, reducing the likelihood of leakage
and moving the liquid towards a hotter portion of the device in use
where the liquid may be more likely to evaporate. The pressure drop
created by drawing through the absorbent material is preferably
less than about 200 Pa (20 mm H2O), more preferably less than about
100 Pa (10 mm H2O) or less than 50 Pa (5 mm H2O). This will depend
on the dimensions and material properties of the absorbent material
in the flow path and be tested by determining the difference in
pressure drop across the whole aerosol provision device with and
without the absorbent material in place.
[0055] The absorbent material may comprise a through-hole for air
to pass through. The through-hole may therefore allow the absorbent
material to be gas permeable with a reduced pressure drop. In a
particular example, at least a portion of the absorbent material
forms a tube which is received in a tubular section of the
chamber.
[0056] The absorbent material may cover one or more air inlets. The
absorbent material therefore reduces liquid from leaking out of the
air inlets. As mentioned, the air inlets may be apertures formed in
the cover.
[0057] An absorbent member may comprise the absorbent material
supported by a substrate. The substrate may provide rigidity and
may hold the absorbent material in place within the device. In one
example, the substrate is hydrophobic and thus reduces the
likelihood of liquid soaking through the whole absorbent member and
then out of the device. In another example, the substrate is at
least partially absorbent, but is more rigid than the absorbent
material. The substrate may have a lower absorption capacity than
the absorbent material, and so can absorb less liquid than the
absorbing portion. The substrate may be gas-permeable.
[0058] In one example, the absorbent material forms at least part
of a brush. Thus, the brush comprises the absorbent material. The
brush therefore acts as an absorbent member to retain/hold the
liquid. The brush may also hold solid particles, such as loose
tobacco.
[0059] The brush may comprise absorbent material in the form of
bristles or filaments. The brush may comprise absorbent material in
the form of a mesh. Bristles, filaments and meshes are absorbent
materials because they retain/hold liquid droplets within their
structure. For example, liquid droplets can be trapped in the space
between bristles/filaments. Similarly, a mesh may comprise a
structure of intertwined or woven strands which retain/hold liquid
droplets in the spaces between them.
[0060] The brush may comprise absorbent material supported by a
substrate. The substrate may form a "backbone" to which the
bristles, filaments or mesh are attached.
[0061] As in other examples, the absorbent member may be removed
from the device and either disposed of, or cleaned and replaced
back into the device.
[0062] The substrate may comprise at least one engagement feature
to engage with the housing or cover. The cover or housing may have
a corresponding engagement feature. The engagement feature(s)
allows the absorbent member to be secured in place. In one example,
the substrate comprises one or more protrusions to engage one or
more corresponding channels/notches formed in the housing or cover.
In another example, the substrate comprises one or more recesses to
receive one or more corresponding protrusions formed in the housing
or cover. In a specific example, the engagement feature of the
substrate and the corresponding engagement feature of the cover or
housing form a bayonet locking mechanism.
[0063] The chamber may comprise a barrier to separate the aerosol
generating material from the absorbent material. The barrier may be
known as a blocking member. The barrier may be defined by an end of
a hollow tube/support which may form at least part of the chamber.
For example, the hollow tube/support may have a narrower width than
the rest of the chamber forming a step such that an end of the
hollow tube abuts the aerosol generating material as it is received
in the chamber and stops the aerosol generating material from
contacting the absorbent material. The barrier may also be a
separate part which is positioned or inserted in the chamber
downstream of the absorbent material. When the barrier is a
separate part, if may comprise one or more retention features to
retain it in the chamber. The aerosol generating material may
therefore be prevented from entering the hollow tube/support. The
absorbent material may be arranged in the hollow tube or may be
arranged in the recess of the cover. In any case, the barrier
reduces the likelihood of the aerosol generating material from
becoming wet by preventing contact between the aerosol generating
material and the absorbent material.
[0064] The device may further comprise a hydrophobic material, such
as a hydrophobic layer arranged within the housing to substantially
prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device.
For example, the hydrophobic material may substantially prevent
liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in
the first position. The hydrophobic material provides a liquid
impermeable layer which stops the liquid soaking through the
absorbent material and out of the cover.
[0065] In a particular example, the absorbent material is arranged
closer to the first opening than the hydrophobic material is (i.e.
the absorbent material is arranged between the hydrophobic material
and the aerosol generating material). The hydrophobic material may
therefore stop any liquid which soaks through the absorbent
material. In an alternative example the hydrophobic material is
arranged closer to the first opening than the absorbent material is
(i.e. the hydrophobic material is arranged between the absorbent
material and the aerosol generating material). The hydrophobic
material and absorbent material may be arranged in the recess of
the cover. Alternatively, one of the hydrophobic material and the
absorbent material may be arranged in the recess of the cover. In
some embodiments the absorbent material is arranged at least
partially within the chamber and the hydrophobic material is
arranged within the recess of the cover.
[0066] In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is
hydrophobic, or comprises a hydrophobic coating, to encourage the
liquid to flow towards the absorbent material. This helps reduce
the likelihood of residue setting inside the chamber.
[0067] In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is
formed from polypropylene or polyethylene. A portion of the chamber
may be coated in a layer of polypropylene or polyethylene in
certain examples. Polypropylene and polyethylene are examples of
hydrophobic materials.
[0068] In particular examples, at least a portion of the chamber
surface is modified to increase the hydrophobicity of the surface.
One example of modifying the surface is polishing the surface so
that the surface is a polished surface.
[0069] In examples comprising absorbent material, at least a
portion of the absorbent material may be configured to provide a
visual indication to indicate that the absorbent material is ready
to be replaced or cleaned. For example, the absorbent material may
be ready to be replaced or cleaned when a predetermined volume of
liquid has been absorbed by the absorbent material or when the
absorbent material has been used for a predetermined length of
time.
[0070] In one example, the visual indication is a change in color
of the portion of the absorbent material. For example, the
absorbent material may be configured to change from a first color
to a second color, where the first and second colors are different
(or are at least distinguishable from each other).
[0071] In some examples, the liquid has a third color, and the
second color is different to the third color. Thus, the absorbent
material may not turn the same color as the liquid.
[0072] The change in color may occur non-uniformly across the
absorbent material. For example, an end of the absorbent material
nearest the aerosol generating material may change color first, and
an end furthest away from the aerosol generating material may
change color at a later time. A user may clean or replace the
absorbent material when the whole of the absorbent material has
changed color. In other examples, the change in color may occur
substantially uniformly across the absorbent material. A user may
clean or replace the absorbent material when the shade of the color
suggests doing so.
[0073] In one example, the change in color occurs due to a change
in pH value. The absorbent material may therefore comprise a
chemical indicator, such as a dye, to provide the visual
indication. Thus, in one example, the absorbent material changes
color as a result of the pH value of the liquid.
[0074] In another example, the change in color occurs due to a
change in temperature. The absorbent material can therefore change
color due to exposure to heat, such as heat of the liquid.
[0075] In one example, the absorbent material comprises a capsule
comprising a colored indicator within a shell, wherein the shell is
configured to break down and release the colored indicator to
provide the visual indication. The shell can therefore break down
over time. In one example, the shell is dissolvable and dissolves
due to exposure to the liquid. The colored indicator, such as a
dye, can then leak out of the capsule when the shell has dissolved.
In one example, the shell dissolves due to the presence of water or
glycerol within the liquid. Preferably the shell dissolves due to
the presence of glycerol but not water to ensure that the shell
does not break down outside of the device and/or when not in use
due to moisture within the air. In another example, the shell
breaks down due a chemical reaction with one or more chemicals
within the liquid. In a further example, the shell breaks down due
to an exposure to heat within the device. In a particular example,
there are a plurality of capsules each comprising a colored
indicator within a shell, where each shell is configured to break
down at a different time. For example, a first capsule may release
a first color chemical indicator after one heating session, and a
second capsule may release a second chemical indicator after
another heating session. Each capsule can have a different shell
thickness such that the shells break down at different times.
[0076] In one example, a first portion of the absorbent material is
configured to provide a visual indication to indicate that the
absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned. A second
portion of the absorbent material may provide a different visual
indication or may not provide a visual indication.
[0077] In some examples, the first portion may be configured to
change from a first color to a second color, where the first and
second colors are different (or are at least distinguishable from
each other). The liquid may have a third color. and the second
portion may be configured to change from a fourth color to the
third color. Thus, in some examples, the first portion is
configured to change to a color that is different to the color of
the liquid and the second portion is only colored naturally by the
liquid, and so does not change to the same color as the first
portion.
[0078] In a particular example, the first portion is arranged at a
first end of the absorbent material, and the second portion is
arranged at a second end of the absorbent material, where the first
end is an end furthest away from the aerosol generating material
(i.e. at the distal end of the absorbent material) and the second
end is an end closest to the aerosol generating material (i.e. at a
proximal end). This may be useful because it shows that liquid has
penetrated through the entire length of the absorbent material, and
so indicates that the absorbent material is ready to be cleaned or
replaced.
[0079] In some examples, the one or more chemical indicators or
dyes are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA). For example, the dyes may be food acceptable
and optionally, a food grade material. The chemical indicators may
therefore be non-toxic and safe for ingestion. This is useful
because the indicators may be heated and aerosolized so may be
inhaled or ingested by a user.
[0080] In one example, the visual indication comprises the
appearance of a particular pattern. For example, one or more
markings or indicia may appear when the absorbent material is ready
to be replaced or cleaned. In some examples the pattern changes
from a first pattern to a second pattern when the absorbent
material is ready to be replaced or cleaned. The appearance of a
particular pattern may also comprise a change in color.
[0081] In some examples, the visual indication is visible from
outside of the device, such as through a window or opening in the
outer cover of the device. In other examples, the visual indication
is visible on opening the cover.
[0082] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there
is provided an absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosol
provision device, the absorbent member comprising an absorbent
material supported by a substrate, wherein the absorbent member is
configured to be at least partially received in a chamber or door
of the aerosol provision device adjacent aerosol generating
material.
[0083] In one example, the absorbent material may be at least
partially received in the chamber, and the substrate may be at
least partially arranged within a recess of a cover of the aerosol
provision device. In another example, the absorbent material and
the substrate may both be at least partially arranged within a
recess of a cover of the aerosol provision device. In another
example, the absorbent material and the substrate may both be at
least partially received in the chamber.
[0084] The absorbent material may comprise any of the features
described in relation to the first aspect.
[0085] In one example, the absorbent material and substrate both
comprise a through-hole for air to pass through the absorbent
member. The substrate may be hydrophobic.
[0086] According to the third aspect of the present disclosure
there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising a
hydrophobic material, such as a hydrophobic layer, arranged within
the housing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the
aerosol provision device. Accordingly, instead of, or in addition
to an absorbent material, the device has a hydrophobic material to
prevent liquid from leaking out of the device. A hydrophobic
material provides a liquid impermeable layer which substantially
prevents the liquid from leaking out of the device. The hydrophobic
material therefore forms a liquid barrier within the device. The
hydrophobic material may be a membrane, for example. In some
examples, the device may comprise a cover or door, and the
hydrophobic material may be configured to substantially prevent
liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in
the first/closed position. Preventing the liquid from leaking may
comprise reducing or eliminating liquid leakage.
[0087] The hydrophobic material may be arranged closer to the
second opening than it is to the first opening. The aerosol is
generated by heating the aerosol generating material and is drawn
through the chamber towards the first opening as a user inhales on
the device. Accordingly, the hydrophobic material may be arranged
upstream of the aerosol flow path. The hydrophobic material is
therefore arranged close to the distal end of the device and
collects liquid which flows towards the distal end of the device.
Phrased differently, the chamber may define a first section to
receive the aerosol generating material. The first section may be a
heating section, for example. The hydrophobic material may be
arranged in the device between the first section and the second
opening or the cover.
[0088] The hydrophobic material may act as a barrier upon which the
liquid can pool. When a user opens the cover, the liquid may be
poured off the hydrophobic material.
[0089] The chamber may have a first section to receive the aerosol
generating material and a second section to receive the hydrophobic
material. Thus, the hydrophobic material may be arranged at least
partially within the chamber.
[0090] At least part of the hydrophobic material may be positioned
between the cover and the second end/opening. That is, at least
part of the hydrophobic material may not be positioned within the
chamber. The hydrophobic material may be at least partially
arranged in an inner recess of the cover or may be arranged on an
outer surface of the cover, for example.
[0091] As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess, and the
hydrophobic material may be arranged at least partially in the
recess. The recess within the cover can allow the liquid to be
poured off the hydrophobic material more easily. For example, the
cover can be opened and the liquid (which may have pooled on top of
the hydrophobic material) can be poured out of the device. In
addition, by arranging the hydrophobic material in the cover, the
liquid is collected further away from the heater, which may keep
the inside of the device/chamber cleaner.
[0092] In use, the hydrophobic material may be at least partially
positioned between the aerosol generating material and the cover.
That is, the hydrophobic material and aerosol generating material
may be arranged within the device at the same time. For example,
the aerosol generating material may be arranged within a first
section of the chamber and the hydrophobic material may be arranged
in a second section of the chamber, or may be arranged in the
recess of the cover. This means the liquid is substantially
prevented from leaking when the device is being used (i.e. during a
heating session).
[0093] The cover may delimit one or more apertures for air to pass
through, and the hydrophobic material may be arranged within the
housing to prevent liquid from passing through the one or more
apertures. The apertures may be known as air inlets. For example,
the hydrophobic material may be gas permeable and is arranged to
cover the one or more apertures. The one or more apertures may be
formed in the cover, for example.
[0094] As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess, and the
recess may comprise a base and one or more sidewalls extending from
the base. The hydrophobic material may have a first surface area
and the base may have a second surface area, where the first
surface area is larger than the second surface area. Thus, when the
hydrophobic material is received in the recess, the hydrophobic
material may at least partially extend up the sidewall(s) to form a
receptacle or reservoir for collecting liquid. In one example, the
hydrophobic material comprises an adhesive layer for adhering the
hydrophobic material to the base. This stops the hydrophobic
material from coming loose, should the device be inverted.
[0095] The hydrophobic material may comprise polyethylene
terephthalate (PET). PET is lightweight, flexible, cheap, and has
high melting point (to avoid the hydrophobic material from
deforming during a heating session).
[0096] The chamber may comprise a barrier to separate the aerosol
generating material from the hydrophobic material. The barrier may
be as discussed above in combination with the absorbent
material.
[0097] The chamber may define a first section to receive the
aerosol generating material, and a second section to receive the
hydrophobic material, and the first section is arranged closer to
first opening than the second section.
[0098] In some examples, the device further comprises an
absorbing/absorbent member/material. In a particular example, the
absorbent material is arranged closer to the first opening than the
hydrophobic material is (i.e. the absorbent material is arranged
between the hydrophobic material and the aerosol generating
material). The hydrophobic material may therefore stop any liquid
which soaks through the absorbent material. In an alternative
example the hydrophobic material is arranged closer to the first
opening than the absorbent material is (i.e. the hydrophobic
material is arranged between the absorbent material and the aerosol
generating material). The hydrophobic material and absorbent
material may be arranged in the recess of the cover. Alternatively,
one of the hydrophobic material and the absorbent material may be
arranged in the recess of the cover. In some embodiments the
absorbent material is arranged at least partially within the
chamber and the hydrophobic material is arranged within the recess
of the cover. The absorbent material may comprise any of the
features described in relation to the first or second aspects.
[0099] In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is
hydrophobic or comprises a hydrophobic coating to encourage the
liquid to flow towards the hydrophobic material.
[0100] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol
provision device comprising a removable/detachable cover/door. The
cover is therefore configured to receive liquid from the chamber
and can be detached to allow the collected liquid to be disposed of
A detachable cover can allow the user to more easily dispose of the
liquid and/or absorbent/hydrophobic material (if present). The
detachable nature of the cover can also allow the cover to be
cleaned, which is particularly useful if the device itself is not
water resistant.
[0101] In some examples, the cover comprises a liquid reservoir to
receive the liquid. In some examples, the liquid reservoir retains
the liquid. The cover may be adapted to: (i) allow liquid to flow
into the reservoir, and (ii) substantially restrict liquid from
flowing out of the reservoir. For example, the cover may comprise a
one-way valve to stop liquid from leaking out of the reservoir.
Alternatively, the reservoir may have an opening shaped to allow
ingress of liquid, but which restricts egress of liquid.
[0102] In some examples, the cover comprises absorbent material.
For example, the cover may comprise a recess and the absorbent
material is arranged at least partially in the recess. In some
examples, the absorbent material is removably adhered to the cover.
A user can remove the absorbent material, and either clean or
dispose of it, before adhering clean absorbent material back onto
the cover. In further examples, the absorbent material is not
removable/detachable from the cover. The door can be detached so
that the absorbent material can be cleaned.
[0103] In some examples, the cover comprises hydrophobic material.
For example, the cover may comprise a recess and the hydrophobic
material is arranged at least partially in the recess. In some
examples, the hydrophobic material is removably adhered to the
cover. A user can remove the hydrophobic material, and either clean
or dispose of it, before adhering clean hydrophobic material back
onto the cover.
[0104] In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is
hydrophobic or comprises a hydrophobic coating to encourage the
liquid to flow towards the cover.
[0105] The device of the fourth aspect may comprise any of the
features described in relation to the first, second or third
aspects.
[0106] According to another aspect, there is provided an aerosol
provision device, comprising a housing delimiting a first opening
at a first end of the housing through which to receive aerosol
generating material and delimiting a second opening at a second end
of the housing. The device further comprises a chamber positioned
between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least
part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating
material. The device further comprises at least one heater arranged
within the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating
material received within the chamber thereby to generate an
aerosol. The device further comprises a brush configured to receive
and retain residue from the chamber. In use, the aerosol is drawn
along a flow path through the chamber towards the first opening and
the brush is at least partially positioned upstream of the part of
the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating
material.
[0107] In some examples, the brush receives and retains liquid
residue from the chamber. In other examples, the brush receives and
retains solid residue from the chamber. The brush can be removed
from the device and be cleaned or disposed of. The brush may be
positioned fully in the chamber, or may be partially positioned in
the chamber. In some examples, the cover/door comprises a recess
and the brush is arranged at least partially in the recess.
[0108] In one example, the brush comprises absorbent material. The
brush therefore acts as an absorbent member and can absorb/hold
liquid.
[0109] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a system
comprises an aerosol generating device as discussed above and
aerosol generating material contained or containable with the
chamber. In some examples the aerosol generating material comprises
part of an aerosol generating article.
[0110] FIG. 1 shows an example of an aerosol provision device 100
for generating aerosol from an aerosol generating medium/material.
In broad outline, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable
article 110 comprising the aerosol generating medium, to generate
an aerosol or other inhalable medium which is inhaled by a user of
the device 100. The device is a tobacco heating device, also known
as a heat-not-burn device.
[0111] The device 100 comprises a housing 102 (defined at least
partially by an outer cover) which surrounds and houses various
components of the device 100. The device 100 or housing 102 has a
first opening 104 in one end, through which the article 110 may be
inserted for heating by a heating assembly. In use, the article 110
may be fully or partially inserted into a heating chamber where it
may be heated by one or more components of the heater/heater
assembly.
[0112] The device 100 of this example comprises a first end member
106 which comprises a lid 108 which is moveable relative to the
first end member 106 to close the first opening 104 when no article
110 is in place. In FIG. 1, the lid 108 is shown in an open
configuration, however the lid 108 may move into a closed
configuration. For example, a user may cause the lid 108 to slide
in the direction of arrow "A".
[0113] The device 100 may also include a user-operable control
element 112, such as a button or switch, which operates the device
100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by
operating the switch 112.
[0114] The device 100 may also comprise an electrical component,
such as a socket/port 114, which can receive a cable to charge a
battery of the device 100. For example, the socket 114 may be a
charging port, such as a USB charging port.
[0115] FIG. 2 depicts the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the outer cover
102 removed and without an article 110 present. The device 100
defines a longitudinal axis 134.
[0116] As shown in FIG. 2, the first end member 106 is arranged at
one end of the device 100 and a second end member 116 is arranged
at an opposite end of the device 100. The first and second end
members 106, 116 together at least partially define end surfaces of
the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end
member 116 at least partially defines a bottom surface of the
device 100. In this example, the lid 108 also defines a portion of
a top surface of the device 100. First and second end members 106,
116 are part of the device housing, such that the housing defines
the first opening 104.
[0117] The end of the device 100 closest to the first opening 104
may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of the device 100
because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a
user inserts an article 110 into the first opening 104, operates
the user control 112 to begin heating the aerosol generating
material and draws on the aerosol generated in the device. This
causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along a flow path
towards the proximal end of the device 100.
[0118] The other end of the device furthest away from the first
opening 104 may be known as the distal end of the device 100
because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the
user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in the device, the
aerosol flows away from the distal end of the device 100.
[0119] The device 100 further comprises a power source 118. The
power source 118 may be, for example, a battery, such as a
rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. The battery is
electrically coupled to the heating assembly to supply electrical
power when required and under control of a controller (not shown)
to heat the aerosol generating material. In this example, the
battery is connected to a central support 120 which holds the
battery 118 in place.
[0120] The device further comprises at least one electronics module
122. The electronics module 122 may comprise, for example, a
printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one
controller, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB 122 may also
comprise one or more electrical tracks to electrically connect
together various electronic components of the device 100. For
example, the battery terminals may be electrically connected to the
PCB 122 so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100.
The socket 114 may also be electrically coupled to the battery via
the electrical tracks.
[0121] In the example device 100, the heating assembly is an
inductive heating assembly and comprises various components to heat
the aerosol generating material of the article 110 via an inductive
heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an
electrically conducting object (such as a susceptor) by
electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may
comprise an inductive element, for example, one or more inductor
coils, and a device for passing a varying electric current, such as
an alternating electric current, through the inductive element. The
varying electric current in the inductive element produces a
varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a
susceptor suitably positioned with respect to the inductive element
and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has
electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and hence the flow of
the eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to
be heated by Joule heating. In cases where the susceptor comprises
ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may
also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor,
i.e. by the varying orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic
material as a result of their alignment with the varying magnetic
field. In inductive heating, as compared to heating by conduction
for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for
rapid heating. Further, there need not be any physical contact
between the inductive heater and the susceptor, allowing for
enhanced freedom in construction and application.
[0122] The induction heating assembly of the example device 100
comprises a susceptor arrangement 132 (herein referred to as "a
susceptor"), a first inductor coil 124 and a second inductor coil
126. The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made from an
electrically conducting material. In this example, the first and
second inductor coils 124, 126 are made from a multi-strand wire,
such as a litz wire/cable which is wound in a generally helical
fashion to provide the inductor coils 124, 126. Litz wire comprises
a plurality of wire strands which are individually insulated and
are twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wires are designed
to reduce the skin effect losses in a conductor. In the example
device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made
from copper Litz wire which has a rectangular cross section. In
other examples the Litz wire can have other shape cross
sections.
[0123] The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a
first varying magnetic field for heating a first section of the
susceptor 132 and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to
generate a second varying magnetic field for heating a second
section of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first inductor
coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in a direction
parallel to the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100. Ends 130
of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 can be connected to
the PCB 122.
[0124] It will be appreciated that the first and second inductor
coils 124, 126, in some examples, may have at least one
characteristic different from each other. For example, the first
inductor coil 124 may have at least one characteristic different
from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one
example, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different value of
inductance than the second inductor coil 126. In FIG. 2, the first
and second inductor coils 124, 126 are of different lengths such
that the first inductor coil 124 is wound over a smaller section of
the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. Thus, the
first inductor coil 124 may comprise a different number of turns
than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing
between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another
example, the first inductor coil 124 may be made from a different
material to the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the
first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may be substantially
identical.
[0125] The susceptor 132 of this example is hollow and therefore
defines at least part of a chamber within which aerosol generating
material is received. For example, the article 110 can be inserted
into the susceptor 132. In this example the susceptor 120 is
tubular, with a circular cross section.
[0126] The susceptor 132, and the first and second inductor coils
124, 126 may form at least part of the heater/heater assembly. The
heated susceptor 132 therefore heats aerosol generating material
received within the housing/device.
[0127] The device 100 of FIG. 2 further comprises an insulating
member 128 which may be generally tubular and at least partially
surround the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 may be
constructed from any insulating material, such as plastic for
example. In this particular example, the insulating member is
constructed from polyether ether ketone (PEEK). The insulating
member 128 may help insulate the various components of the device
100 from the heat generated in the susceptor 132.
[0128] The insulating member 128 can also fully or partially
support the first and second inductor coils 124, 126. For example,
as shown in FIG. 2, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126
are positioned around the insulating member 128 and are in contact
with a radially outward surface of the insulating member 128. In
some examples the insulating member 128 does not abut the first and
second inductor coils 124, 126. For example, a small gap may be
present between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and
the inner surface of the first and second inductor coils 124,
126.
[0129] In a specific example, the susceptor 132, the insulating
member 128, and the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are
coaxial around a central longitudinal axis of the susceptor
132.
[0130] FIG. 3 shows a side view of device 100 in partial
cross-section. The outer cover 102 is present in this example.
[0131] The device 100 further comprises a support 136 which engages
one end of the susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in place.
The support 136 is connected to the second end member 116. The
support 136 may also be known as a hollow member, hollow tube, or
cleanout tube.
[0132] The device may also comprise a second printed circuit board
138 associated within the control element 112.
[0133] The device 100 further comprises a cover, which in this
example is a door 140, and a spring 142, arranged towards the
distal end of the device 100. The spring 142 allows the door 140 to
be opened, to provide access to a second opening formed in the
housing. The second opening may be defined by an end of the support
136, for example. Through the second opening, a user may access the
chamber to clean the susceptor 132 and/or the support 136. The
device 100 or housing 102 therefore defines the second opening at
the second end of the device/housing. Similarly, the device 100 or
housing 102 defines the first opening 104 at the first end of the
device/housing. The first and second ends may be opposite to each
other. A chamber or channel is formed between the door 140 and the
first opening 104. For example, the chamber/channel may be at least
partially defined by the support 136 and the susceptor 132. The
door 140 can be moved between two positions. In a first position,
the second opening is covered by the door 140, and in a second
position the second opening is not covered by the door 140.
[0134] The device 100 further comprises an expansion chamber 144
which extends away from a proximal end of the susceptor 132 towards
the first opening 104 of the device. Located at least partially
within the expansion chamber 144 is a retention clip 146 to abut
and hold the article 110 when received within the device 100. The
expansion chamber 144 is connected to the end member 106. The
expansion chamber 144 may also define at least part of the
chamber/channel.
[0135] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the device 100 of FIG. 1, with
the outer cover 102 omitted.
[0136] FIG. 5A depicts a cross section of a portion of the device
100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5B depicts a close-up of a region of FIG. 5A.
FIGS. 5A and 5B show the article 110 received within the susceptor
132, where the article 110 is dimensioned so that the outer surface
of the article 110 abuts the inner surface of the susceptor 132.
The article 110 of this example comprises aerosol generating
material 110a. The aerosol generating material 110a is positioned
within the susceptor 132. The article 110 may also comprise other
components such as a filter, wrapping materials and/or a cooling
structure.
[0137] FIG. 5B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is
spaced apart from the inner surface of the inductor coils 124, 126
by a distance 150, measured in a direction perpendicular to a
longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular
example, the distance 150 is about 3 mm to 4 mm, about 3 mm to 3.5
mm, or about 3.25 mm.
[0138] FIG. 5B further shows that the outer surface of the
insulating member 128 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the
inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 152, measured in a direction
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In
one particular example, the distance 152 is about 0.05 mm. In
another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0 mm, such that
the inductor coils 124, 126 abut and touch the insulating member
128.
[0139] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154
of about 0.025 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.05 mm.
[0140] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of about 40
mm to 60 mm, about 40 mm to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.
[0141] In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall
thickness 156 of about 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about
0.5 mm.
[0142] FIG. 6A depicts the distal/bottom end of the device 100. In
FIG. 6A, the door 140 is arranged in first position in which the
second opening to the chamber is closed. One or more apertures 160
form air inlets within the door. Air can be drawn into the chamber
and through the device 100 towards the first opening 104 via the
apertures 160.
[0143] FIG. 6B depicts the distal/bottom end of the device 100 with
the door 140 omitted. The spring 142 and bottom end of the support
136 are seen. The end of the support 136 and/or the second end
member 116 define the second opening 162. The support 136 and
susceptor 132 can be cleaned via the second opening 162. For
example, a cleaning tool may be introduced into the chamber.
[0144] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision
device with certain components of the heating assembly omitted. For
example, the second inductor coil 126 is omitted. The susceptor 132
and the support 136 at least partially define a chamber through
which air and aerosol can flow. The susceptor 132 may form a first
section of the chamber, which receives the aerosol generating
material. The support 136 supports one end of the susceptor 132 and
may form a second section of the chamber.
[0145] It has been found that when an article comprising aerosol
generating material is heated within the chamber of the device 100,
aerosol can cool and condense inside the device. For example,
aerosol can condense on inner surfaces of the support 136 which is
cooler than the susceptor. Condensation may also occur on the
susceptor 132 as it cools after use or as different portions of the
susceptor are heated to different temperatures. This condensate or
liquid can run down the inside of the chamber and collect at the
bottom of the device. For example, the liquid may collect in the
door 140. The liquid may then leak out of the apertures 160 formed
in the door 140 or may leak around the perimeter of the door.
Furthermore, the liquid may leak out when the door 140 is
opened.
[0146] It may be useful to absorb this liquid before it can leak
out of the device. Accordingly, in some examples, one or more
absorbent material may be arranged within the device 100 to absorb
any liquid that forms or gathers within the chamber. The absorbent
material may be removable from the device, so that it can either be
cleaned and replaced within the device, or it may be disposed of
and replaced with a new absorbent material. FIGS. 8-13 and 17
depict various absorbent members and absorbent materials of
different shapes and constructions which may be used within the
device to prevent liquid from leaking out of the device 100.
[0147] In another example, it may be useful to collect the liquid
to prevent the liquid from leaking out of the device 100 past the
door 140. Accordingly, in some examples, hydrophobic material in
the form of one or more hydrophobic layers or membranes may be
arranged within the device 100 to prevent liquid from leaking. A
hydrophobic layer is a layer which is impermeable to liquid. The
liquid can then collect on the hydrophobic layer. FIGS. 14-17
depict a hydrophobic layer which may be used to prevent liquid from
leaking out of the device 100.
[0148] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent
member 164 comprising absorbent material and arranged within the
chamber of the aerosol provision device. In particular, the
absorbent member 164 is arranged within the support 136 and is
positioned towards the end of the support 136 adjacent the second
opening. Accordingly, the absorbent member 164 is arranged closer
to the second opening 162 than it is to the first opening 104. When
aerosol generating material is received in the chamber (such as in
the susceptor 132), and the door 140 is in the first position, the
absorbent member 164 is arranged within the chamber between the
door 140 and the aerosol generating material.
[0149] In this example, the absorbent member 164 is made from
cellulose acetate, and can therefore absorb and hold liquid which
comes into contact with the absorbent member 164. In other
examples, the absorbent member 164 is made from other absorbent
materials, such as paper or foam.
[0150] FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of the absorbent member
164. The absorbent member is tubular and is generally cylindrical
with a length of between 5 mm and 20 mm, such as about 10 mm. The
absorbent member 164 therefore has a circular cross-sectional
shape. In FIG. 8, the absorbent member 164 is arranged in a section
of the chamber defined by the support 136. The support 136 is also
tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds
to that of the absorbent member 164. The inner diameter of the
support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 166 of
the absorbent member 164 to provide a close fit, such as an
interference fit, within the support and reduce leakage around the
outer surfaces of the absorbent member. For example, the diameter
of the absorbent member can be between 4 mm and 5 mm, preferably
between 4.4 mm and 4.6 mm, with corresponding inner diameter of the
support. This interference fit can also help hold the absorbent
member 164 in place. The inner diameter of the support 136 may be
slightly smaller than the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent
member 164 so that the absorbent member is in a compressed state
when it is received in the chamber. This compressed state can
ensure that the absorbent member 164 abuts the inner surface of the
chamber at all positions around the absorbent member 164 to
substantially prevent liquid from flowing around the absorbent
member 164.
[0151] In the example of FIGS. 8 and 9, the absorbent member 164
arranged near to one or more of the apertures 160. The absorbent
member 164 is therefore gas permeable to allow air to flow through
the absorbent member 164. For example, air may be drawn through the
apertures 160 and through the absorbent member 164 towards the
aerosol generating material located further along the chamber. In
this example, the absorbent member 164 is gas permeable, for
example the absorbency may be provided by a material with voids
that allow gas flow, such a foam material. In addition, a through
hole 168 extends through the absorbent member to provide a flow
path with reduced pressure drop. The absorbent member 164 may
therefore be in the form of a hollow tube where the outer material
of the absorbent member abuts the inner surface of the chamber to
receive liquid as it flows down the inside of the inner surface. In
this example, the material from which the absorbent member 164 is
made is also gas permeable. Gas molecules can therefore flow
through the material of the absorbent member 164 as well as through
the through hole 168. The through hole 168 may help reduce the
pressure drop through the chamber, so that the user need not draw
on the device 100 with as much force. In some examples, the through
hole 168 may be omitted.
[0152] FIG. 10 depicts a cross-sectional view of a second absorbent
member 174 which comprises absorbent material and is arranged
within a recess 170 of the door 140. Liquid may flow down the
inside of the chamber and drip through the second opening 162 into
the absorbent member 174. The absorbent member 174 therefore stops
the liquid from leaking out of the device 100 (i.e. stops the
liquid from leaking past the door 140).
[0153] As in the example of FIG. 8, the absorbent member 174 is
arranged closer to the second opening 162 than it is to the first
opening 104. When aerosol generating material is received in the
chamber (such as in the susceptor 132), and the door 140 is in the
first position, the absorbent member 164 is arranged between the
door 140 and the aerosol generating material.
[0154] In some examples, the absorbent member 174 may extend out of
the recess 170, such that is arranged in both the recess 170 and
the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.
[0155] In this example, the recess comprises a base 170a and one or
more sidewalls 170b extending away from the base towards the second
opening 162. The one or more apertures 160 are formed in the base
of the recess 170 such that the absorbent member 174 covers the one
or more apertures 160. In other examples the one or more apertures
160 may be formed in the door 140 but are not formed in the base of
the recess 170.
[0156] In this example, the absorbent member 174 is made from foam,
and can therefore absorb and hold liquid which comes into contact
with the absorbent member 174. The absorbent member 174 may be made
from other absorbent materials, such as paper or cellulose
acetate.
[0157] In some examples, the door 140 is removable/detachable from
the device. For example, the door 140 may comprise one or more
fasteners (not shown) which allow the door 140 to be connected to
the device, such as the second end member 116. A user may remove
the door 140 to allow the absorbent member 174 to be more easily
cleaned or replaced. The door may be completely detachable from the
device.
[0158] FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the absorbent member
174. The absorbent member may be disk-shaped and is generally
cylindrical. The absorbent member is about 2.5 mm high and about 8
mm in diameter. The absorbent member 174 therefore has a circular
cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 10, the absorbent member 174 is
arranged in the recess 170. The recess 170 is also disk-shaped and
has a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of
the absorbent member 174. The inner diameter of the recess 170 is
substantially the same as the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent
member 174 to provide a close fit. For example, an interference fit
can help hold the absorbent member 174 in place when the door is
opened. The inner diameter of the recess 170 may be slightly
smaller than the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 so
that the absorbent member is in a compressed state when it is
received in the chamber. This compressed state can ensure that the
absorbent member 174 abuts the one or more sidewalls 170b of the
recess 170 at all positions around the absorbent member 174 to
reduce the likelihood of liquid from flowing around the absorbent
member 174.
[0159] In the example of FIGS. 10 and 11, the absorbent member 174
covers one or more of the apertures 160. The absorbent member 174
is therefore gas permeable to allow air to flow through the
absorbent member 174. For example, air may be drawn through the
apertures 160 and through the absorbent member 174 towards the
aerosol generating material located in the chamber. In this
example, the absorbent member 174 is gas permeable because it is
made from material which is gas permeable. In some examples, the
absorbent member 174 also comprises a through hole through which
air can flow.
[0160] In other examples where an absorbent member is arranged in a
recess of a door, it may be positioned so that it does not obstruct
a fluid flow path. For example, rather than covering apertures in
the door it could be positioned inside the apertures. It is still
upstream of the fluid flow path, but the fluid flow path can bypass
the absorbent member and any pressure drop associated with it.
[0161] FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of a third absorbent
member 184 comprising an absorbent material 184a supported by a
substrate 184b. The substrate 184b in this example is more rigid
than the absorbent material 184a. In this example, the absorbent
material 184a is to be arranged in the chamber of the device 100.
For example, the absorbent material 184a can be received within the
support 136. The substrate 184b can be received in a recess formed
in the door or may be received in a wider portion of the chamber.
In a particular example, the substrate 184b is received in the
recess of the door and when the door is moved into the first/closed
position, the absorbent material 184a is received in the chamber.
Accordingly, the absorbent member 184 may extend out of the recess,
such that is arranged in both the recess and the chamber when the
door 140 is in the first/closed position.
[0162] The substrate of this example comprises one or more
engagement features in the form of protrusions 182 to engage with
one or more corresponding engagement features on the door or
housing. For example, each of the protrusions 182 may be received
in a channel/notch formed in the one or more sidewalls of the
recess of the door. The one or more engagement features allow the
absorbent member 184 to be secured in place so that the absorbent
member 184 does not move around within the device or fall out of
the device when the door 140 is opened.
[0163] In this example, the absorbent material 184a is paper, and
can therefore absorb and hold liquid which comes into contact with
the absorbent member 184. The absorbent material 184 may be other
absorbent materials, such as foam or cellulose acetate. The
substrate 184b may be made from plastic, such as PEEK, and the
absorbing portion 184a may be adhered to the substrate 184b.
[0164] The absorbent material 184a is tubular and is generally
cylindrical. The absorbent material 184a therefore has a circular
cross-sectional shape. The absorbent material 184a can be arranged
in a section of the chamber defined by the support 136. The support
136 is also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape that
corresponds to that of the absorbent material 184a. The inner
diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer
diameter 186 of the absorbent material 184a to provide a close fit
and reduce leakage. This interference fit can also help hold the
absorbent member 184 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent
member 184 does not have any engagement features). The substrate
184b is disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. The substrate
184b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The substrate
184b may be arranged a recess of the door 140, so the recess may
also be disk-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape that
corresponds to that of the substrate 184b. The inner diameter of
the recess may be substantially the same as the outer diameter 188
of the substrate 184b to provide a close fit (which may be useful
if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagement
features).
[0165] The absorbent member 184 may be arranged to cover one or
more of the apertures 160 in the door 140. The absorbent member 184
may therefore be gas permeable to allow air to flow through the
absorbent member 184. In this example, the absorbent member 184
also has a through hole 180 extending through it. The through hole
180 extends through the absorbing portion 184a and the substrate
184b to provide a flow path through both the absorbent material
184a and the substrate 184b. In this example, the absorbent
material is also gas permeable. The material from which the
substrate 184b is made may not be gas permeable.
[0166] FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of a fourth absorbent
member 194 comprising an absorbent material supported by a
substrate 194b. The absorbent material comprises a first part 194a
and a second part 194c. The first and second parts 194a, 194c may
be different to each other. For example, they may have different
dimensions or may comprise different materials or may comprise the
same materials but with different absorbency properties.
[0167] The substrate 194b in this example is more rigid than the
absorbing portion.
[0168] In this example, the first part 194a of absorbing portion is
to be arranged in the chamber of the device 100. For example, the
first part 194a can be received within the support 136. The
substrate 194b can be received in a recess formed in the door 140.
The second part 194c of the absorbent material may be arranged
between the chamber and the recess of the door 140. The second part
194c can therefore absorb any liquid which has managed to escape
the chamber. Accordingly, the absorbent member 194 may extend out
of the recess, such that is arranged in both the recess and the
chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.
[0169] The substrate of this example comprises one or more
engagement features in the form of protrusions 192 to engage with
one or more corresponding engagement features on the door or
housing.
[0170] In this example, the first part 194a is made from cellulose
acetate and the second part 194c is made from foam or paper. Other
materials may be used instead. In some examples the first and
second parts 194a, 194c are made from the same material. The
substrate 194b may be made from plastic, such as PEEK, and the
absorbing portion may be adhered to the substrate 194b.
[0171] The first part 194a is tubular and is generally cylindrical.
The first part 194a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape.
The first part 194a can be arranged in a section of the chamber
defined by the support 136. The support 136 may also tubular and
has a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of
the first part 194a. The inner diameter of the support 136 is
substantially the same as the outer diameter 196 of the first part
194a to provide a close fit and reduce leakage. An interference fit
can also help hold the absorbent member 194 in place (which may be
useful if the absorbent member 194 does not have any engagement
features).
[0172] The second part 194c is disk-shaped and is generally
cylindrical. The second part 194c therefore has a circular
cross-sectional shape. The second part 194c may be arranged between
the end of the support 136 and the recess of the door 140. In some
examples, the cross-sectional shape of the second part 194c may not
need to correspond to that of any components of the device. In
another example, the second part 194c may be received in a wider
bottom section of the chamber, such as a wider section of the
support 136, and the cross-sectional shape of the second part 194c
may correspond to that of the section of the chamber/support which
receives the second part 194c.
[0173] The substrate 194b is disk-shaped and is generally
cylindrical. The substrate 194b therefore has a circular
cross-sectional shape. The substrate 194b may be arranged a recess
of the door 140, so the recess may also be disk-shaped and have a
circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the
substrate 194b. The inner diameter of the recess may be
substantially the same as the outer diameter 198 of the substrate
194b to provide a "snug" fit (which may be useful if the absorbent
member 194 does not have any engagement features).
[0174] The absorbent member 194 may be arranged to cover one or
more of the apertures 160 in the door 140. The absorbent member 194
may therefore be gas permeable to allow air to flow through the
absorbent member 194. A through hole 190 extends through the
absorbing portion and the substrate 194b to provide a flow path
through both the absorbing portion and the substrate 194b. In this
example, the material from which the absorbing portion is made is
also gas permeable. In other examples, the material from which the
substrate 194b is made is not be gas permeable.
[0175] In the examples of FIGS. 8, 9, 12 and 13 discussed above,
the absorbent member is at least partially tubular. In other
examples, the absorbent member may be generally solid and
cylindrical. In other words, the absorbent member may take the form
of a cylindrical "plug". The absorbent member in these examples is
gas-permeable to provide a fluid flow path through the absorbent
member. Dimensions may be similar to the FIG. 9 example: about 5 mm
to 20 mm in length and about 4 mm to 5 mm in diameter. In one
configuration the absorbent member may be a cylinder of 4.4 mm to
4.6 mm in diameter and about 10 mm in length.
[0176] When the absorbent member is solid, it will present a
greater pressure drop in the fluid flow path due to the increased
resistance to pass through the absorbent member. There is therefore
a balance of pressure drop against effective absorbency, both in
the composition of the material and on the overall dimensions. For
example, a particular absorption capacity or internal structure may
present less of a pressure drop but reduce fluid retention in the
absorbent member. Likewise, a longer absorbent member will present
a greater pressure drop but will have a greater volume to retain
liquid before becoming saturated. It has been found that an
absorbent member with a length of 5 to 15 mm, such as about 10 mm
provides a good balance of these properties.
[0177] In either of FIG. 8 or 10, a hydrophobic layer may be
arranged within the device to substantially prevent liquid from
leaking out of the device past the door 140. For example, a
hydrophobic layer may be used in place of the absorbent members
164, 174, 184, 194. In some examples, a hydrophobic layer is used
as well as an absorbent member to further reduce the likelihood of
leakage.
[0178] FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer
204 according to an example. A hydrophobic layer 204 is a liquid
impermeable layer that can be arranged within the device. For
example, the hydrophobic layer 204 can be arranged within the
chamber or within a recess of the door. A hydrophobic layer 204
therefore forms a liquid barrier within the device. If the
hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged in the chamber, liquid may be
substantially prevented from passing through the second opening
162. If the hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged in a recess of the
door 140, liquid may be substantially prevented from passing beyond
the door 140, such as through one or more apertures formed in the
door.
[0179] FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of part of the
device 100 with a hydrophobic layer 204 arranged within the recess
170 of the door 140. At least part of the hydrophobic layer 204 is
therefore positioned between the door 140 and the second end 162.
The door 140 is arranged in a first position, such that the second
opening 162 is closed/covered by the door 140.
[0180] Liquid 202 may flow down the inside of the chamber (such as
down the inside of the support 136) and drip through the second
opening 162 onto the hydrophobic layer 204. The hydrophobic layer
204 therefore stops the liquid 202 from leaking out of the device
100 (i.e. stops the liquid from leaking past the door 140). The
hydrophobic layer 204 may act as a barrier upon which the liquid
202 can pool.
[0181] The hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged closer to the second
opening 162 than it is to the first opening 104. When aerosol
generating material is received in the chamber (such as in the
susceptor 132), and the door 140 is in the first position, the
hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged between the door 140 and the
aerosol generating material.
[0182] In some examples, the hydrophobic layer 204 may extend out
of the recess 170, such that is arranged in both the recess 170 and
the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.
[0183] As mentioned in relation to FIG. 10, the recess 170
comprises a base 170a and one or more sidewalls 170b extending away
from the base towards the second opening 162. The one or more
apertures 160 are formed in the base 170a of the recess 170 such
that the hydrophobic layer 204 covers the one or more apertures
160. The hydrophobic layer 204 is therefore arranged within the
housing to prevent liquid 202 from passing through the one or more
apertures 160. In some examples, the hydrophobic layer is gas
permeable. In some examples the one or more apertures 160 may be
formed in the door 140 but are not formed in the base of the recess
170.
[0184] The hydrophobic layer 204 may have a first surface area and
the base 170a may have a second surface area, where the first
surface area is larger than the second surface area. Thus, as shown
in FIG. 15, when the hydrophobic layer 204 is received in the
recess 170, the hydrophobic layer 204 partially extends up the
sidewalls 170b to form a receptacle or reservoir for collecting the
liquid 202.
[0185] In this example, the hydrophobic layer 204 is made from
comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The hydrophobic layer
204 may be made from other hydrophobic materials in other
examples.
[0186] FIG. 16 depicts the door 140 arranged in a second position
such that the second opening 162 is not covered by the door 140. As
the door 140 is opened, the hydrophobic layer 204 is tilted, and
the liquid 202 may run off the hydrophobic layer and be poured out
of the device 100. The door 140 can then be returned to the
first/closed position of FIG. 15.
[0187] In some examples, the device comprises an
absorbing/absorbent member in addition to a hydrophobic layer. For
example, a hydrophobic layer may be arranged within a recess of the
door 140 in FIG. 8 such that the absorbent member 164 is arranged
closer to the first opening 104 than the hydrophobic layer.
Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer may be arranged at least
partially within in the chamber rather than being within the recess
of the door 140. In both of these examples, liquid may only arrive
at the hydrophobic layer if it manages to move beyond the absorbent
member 164 (i.e. the absorbent member is arranged between the
hydrophobic layer and the aerosol generating material).
[0188] In another example, a hydrophobic layer may be arranged
within the recess 170 of the door 140 in FIG. 10 such that the
hydrophobic layer is arranged closer to the first opening 104 than
the absorbent member 174. The hydrophobic layer may cover the
absorbent member 174, for example. Alternatively, the hydrophobic
layer may be arranged at least partially within the chamber rather
than being within the recess of the door 140. In both of these
examples, liquid may only arrive at the absorbent member 174 if it
manages to move beyond the hydrophobic layer (i.e. the hydrophobic
layer is arranged between the absorbent member and the aerosol
generating material).
[0189] In another example, a hydrophobic layer and an absorbent
member 174 may be arranged within the recess 170 of the door 140 in
FIG. 10 such that the absorbent member 174 is arranged closer to
the first opening 104 than the hydrophobic layer. The hydrophobic
layer may cover the base 170a of the recess 170 and the absorbent
member 174 may be arranged on top of the hydrophobic layer, for
example. Liquid may only arrive at the hydrophobic layer if it
manages to move beyond the absorbent member 174 (i.e. the absorbent
member is arranged between the hydrophobic layer and the aerosol
generating material).
[0190] FIG. 17 depicts an absorbent member 206 arranged on a
hydrophobic layer 208. The absorbent member 206 and hydrophobic
layer 208 may have different shapes to those depicted. The
absorbent member 206 may be adhered to the hydrophobic layer
208.
[0191] In examples which include an absorbent material, the
absorbent material may also be modified to change the sensory
experience of a user in addition to absorbing any condensate
liquid. For example, the absorbent member could be impregnated or
otherwise infused with an aerosol modifying agent, such as a
flavorant. Such an aerosol modifying agent may be contained within
the absorbent material, using the absorbent material as a matrix to
hold the aerosol modifying material. The aerosol modifying material
may be included at manufacture of the absorbent material and sealed
in a package to prevent evaporation before installation into an
aerosol provision device. Alternatively or additionally, the
aerosol modifying material may be provided in a container within or
associated with the absorbent material which is designed to break,
rupture or disintegrate when the absorbent material is installed
into an aerosol provision device, thus delivering the aerosol
modifying material into the absorbent material.
[0192] When an aerosol modifying material is incorporated into the
absorbent material, it may be desirable to increase the volume of
the absorbent material, so that the flavorant can be present in
combination with any liquid absorbed without saturating the
absorbent material. Some examples increase the diameter of a solid
cylindrical absorbent member to do this. For example, the diameter
may be increased from around 4.4 mm to 4.6 mm to around 7 mm to 9
mm, such as around 8.2 mm. Increasing the diameter has minimal
effect on pressure drop in use, and all other things being equal it
will decrease the pressure drop because there are more paths
through the absorbent material.
[0193] An aerosol modifying agent is a substance that is able to
modify aerosol in use. The agent may modify aerosol in such a way
as to create a physiological or sensory effect on the human body.
Example aerosol modifying agents are flavorants and sensates. A
sensate creates an organoleptic sensation that can be perceived
through the senses, such as a cool or sour sensation.
[0194] The aerosol modifying agent may be held in an agent release
component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead. The component may
be selectively actuatable, such as by a user, to release the
aerosol modifying agent.
[0195] As used herein, the terms "flavor" and "flavorant" refer to
materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to
create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult
consumers.
[0196] As used herein, the terms "flavor" and "flavorant" refer to
materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to
create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers.
They may include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, Japanese
white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol,
Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry,
peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint,
peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg,
sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla,
lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine,
ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander,
coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor
enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor
site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes
(e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine,
cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or
mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll,
minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be
imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They
may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid, or
powder.
[0197] The above described examples have included wholly
hydrophobic and wholly absorbent portions. Other examples may
provide an absorbent material with a composite structure of
hydrophobic and hydrophilic elements. The hydrophobic elements can
assist with wicking into the absorbent material where liquid is
then retained by the hydrophilic elements. The above embodiments
are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention.
[0198] Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. It is to
be understood that any feature described in relation to any one
embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features
described, and may also be used in combination with one or more
features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any
other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and
modifications not described above may also be employed without
departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the
accompanying claims.
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