AEROSOL DELIVERY COMPONENT
The present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery component (e.g., a smoking substitute component) comprising: a first aerosolisation portion (which may be a passive aerosolisation portion) configured to generate a first aerosol from a first aerosol precursor; and a second aerosolisation portion (which may be an active aerosolisation portion) configured to generate a second aerosol from a second aerosol precursor. The component further comprises a mouthpiece nozzle rotatable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the component is configured to supply the first aerosol and the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle, and in the second position the component is configured to supply only the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle.
This application is a non-provisional application claiming benefit to EP 21196089.3 filed on Sep. 10, 2021, to EP 21196056.2 filed on Sep. 10, 2021, and to EP 21200162.2 filed on Sep. 30, 2021. The entire contents of each of the above-referenced applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSUREThe present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery component and system, and particularly, although not exclusively, to an aerosol delivery component/system configured to selectively deliver either a single aerosol or a combined first and second aerosol.
The present disclosure also relates to a smoking substitute apparatus and particularly, although not exclusively, to a smoking substitute apparatus that is able to deliver flavour to a user whilst keeping the flavourant and aerosol former separate.
BACKGROUNDOne form of an aerosol delivery device is a smoking-substitute system, which is an electronic system that permits the user to simulate the act of smoking by producing an aerosol or vapour that is drawn into the lungs through the mouth and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol or vapour typically bears nicotine and/or other flavourings without the odour and health risks associated with traditional smoking and tobacco products. In use, the user experiences a similar satisfaction and physical sensation to those experienced from a traditional smoking or tobacco product, and exhales an aerosol or vapour of similar appearance to the smoke exhaled when using such traditional smoking or tobacco products.
One approach for a smoking substitute system is the so-called “vaping” approach, in which a vaporisable liquid, typically referred to (and referred to herein) as “e-liquid”, is heated by a heating element to produce an aerosol/vapour which is inhaled by a user. The e-liquid typically includes a base liquid as well as nicotine and/or flavourings. The resulting vapour therefore also typically contains nicotine and/or flavourings. The base liquid may include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine.
A typical vaping smoking substitute system includes a mouthpiece, a power source (typically a battery), a tank for containing e-liquid, as well as a heating element. In use, electrical energy is supplied from the power source to the heating element, which heats the e-liquid to produce an aerosol (or “vapour”) which is inhaled by a user through the mouthpiece.
Vaping smoking substitute systems can be configured in a variety of ways. For example, there are “closed system” vaping smoking substitute systems, which typically have a sealed tank and heating element. The tank is pre-filled with e-liquid and is not intended to be refilled by an end user. One subset of closed system vaping smoking substitute systems include a device which includes the power source, wherein the device is configured to be physically and electrically coupled to a consumable including the tank and the heating element. The consumable may also be referred to as a cartomizer. In this way, when the tank of a consumable has been emptied, the consumable is disposed of. The device can be reused by connecting it to a new, replacement, consumable. Another subset of closed system vaping smoking substitute systems are completely disposable, and intended for one-use only.
There are also “open system” vaping smoking substitute systems which typically have a tank that is configured to be refilled by a user. In this way the system can be used multiple times.
An example vaping smoking substitute system is the myblu® system. The myblu® system is a closed system which includes a device and a consumable. The device and consumable are physically and electrically coupled together by pushing the consumable into the device. The device includes a rechargeable battery. The consumable includes a mouthpiece, a sealed tank which contains e-liquid, as well as a heating element, which for this system is a heating filament coiled around a portion of a wick. The wick is partially immersed in the e-liquid, and conveys e-liquid from the tank to the heating filament. The device is activated when a microprocessor on board the device detects a user inhaling through the mouthpiece. When the system is activated, electrical energy is supplied from the power source to the heating element, which heats e-liquid from the tank to produce a vapour which is inhaled by a user through the mouthpiece.
For a smoking substitute system it is desirable to deliver nicotine into the user's lungs, where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. As explained above, in the vaping approach, e-liquid is heated by a heating element to produce an aerosol/vapour which is inhaled by a user. Many e-cigarettes also deliver flavour to the user, to enhance the experience. Flavour compounds are contained in the e-liquid that is heated. Heating of the flavour compounds may be undesirable as the flavour compounds are inhaled into the user's lungs. Toxicology restrictions are placed on the amount of flavour that can be contained in the e-liquid. This can result in some e-liquid flavours delivering a weak and underwhelming taste sensation to consumers in the pursuit of safety.
In aerosol delivery devices, it is desirable to improve flavour delivery to the user. It is also desirable to provide the user with control over whether or not they inhale a flavour compound along with the e-liquid.
The present disclosure has been devised in light of the above considerations.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSUREAccording to a first aspect there is provided an aerosol delivery component comprising: a first aerosolisation portion configured to generate a first aerosol from a first aerosol precursor; a second aerosolisation portion configured to generate a second aerosol from a second precursor; and a mouthpiece nozzle rotatable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the component is configured to supply the first aerosol and the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle, and in the second position the component is configured to supply only the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle.
By providing a mouthpiece nozzle rotatable between a first position in which the component is configured to deliver both the first and second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle, and a second position in which the component is configured to supply only the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle, the user can choose to inhale either a combination of the first and second aerosols through the mouthpiece nozzle or to inhale only the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle at their convenience.
Optional features of the first aspect will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination.
The first aerosolisation portion may be downstream of the second aerosolisation portion.
The terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used with reference to the direction of airflow through the component (from a component inlet to the mouthpiece nozzle) during normal use of the component (i.e., by way of inhalation at the mouthpiece nozzle). Similarly, the terms “upper” and “lower” are used with reference to the component during normal use (i.e., in an upright orientation (i.e., with the mouthpiece nozzle uppermost)).
The second aerosolisation portion may be in fluid communication with the mouthpiece nozzle through a first flow path and at least one second flow path (e.g., two second flow paths), wherein the first flow path further fluidically connects the first aerosolisation portion to the mouthpiece nozzle.
The first aerosolisation portion may be in fluid communication with only the first flow path.
The aerosol delivery component may comprise a component housing having a mouthpiece portion. The mouthpiece nozzle may be rotatably mounted on the mouthpiece portion. The mouthpiece portion may comprise at least one second channel at least partly defining the at least one second flow path.
The first flow path may lead to a first outlet aperture in the mouthpiece nozzle, e.g., in a downstream end face of the mouthpiece nozzle. The at least one second flow path may lead to a respective at least one second channel opening in the downstream axial end face of the mouthpiece portion which may be in fluid communication with a respective at least on second outlet aperture in the mouthpiece nozzle (e.g., in the downstream end face of the mouthpiece nozzle), when the mouthpiece nozzle is in the second position.
The at least one second flow path may be selectively obstructable by rotation of the mouthpiece nozzle. For example, the or each second channel opening may be selectively obstructable by rotation of the mouthpiece nozzle.
For example, in the first position, the downstream end face of the mouthpiece nozzle may block the second channel opening(s), thus blocking the at least one second flow path. In this regard, in the first position, the second channel opening(s) may be unaligned with the respective second outlet apertures in the mouthpiece nozzle such that the at least one second flow path is blocked. In the second position, the second channel opening(s) may be aligned with the respective second outlet apertures in the mouthpiece nozzle such that the at least one second flow path is open (i.e., open to the at least one second outlet aperture).
The first flow path may be in fluid communication with the first outlet aperture in both the first and second positions.
The first flow path may comprise a downstream portion extending to the first outlet aperture that is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion. Thus the first outlet aperture may be a central, axial aperture in the downstream end face of the mouthpiece nozzle.
The at least one second flow path may comprise a downstream portion extending to the at least one second outlet aperture (through the at least one second channel opening) that is substantially parallel to but laterally off-set from the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion. Thus the at least one second channel (and at least one second channel opening/second outlet aperture) may be substantially parallel to but laterally off-set from the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion. Thus the at least one second channel opening may be a laterally off-set aperture in the downstream axial end wall of the mouthpiece portion and at least one second outlet aperture may be a laterally off-set aperture in the downstream end face of the mouthpiece nozzle.
The mouthpiece nozzle may comprise a circumferential wall. The circumferential wall may be textured to facilitate gripping (and rotation) of the mouthpiece nozzle. For example, the circumferential wall may comprise a series of ridges, e.g., longitudinally-extending ridges.
The mouthpiece nozzle comprises a downstream end face in which the first and at least one second outlet apertures are formed. The downstream end face may comprise a concave surface such as a conical/frusto-conical concave surface. The at least one second outlet aperture (which may be elliptical in shape) may be provided on the concave surface. The first outlet aperture (which may be circular in shape) may be a central, axial outlet aperture with the concave/conical/frustoconical surface extending downstream from the first outlet aperture. In this way, the at least one second outlet aperture(s) of the mouthpiece nozzle may be downstream of the first outlet aperture of the mouthpiece nozzle.
The first outlet aperture of the mouthpiece nozzle may be in fluid communication with the first flow path through a nozzle conduit depending upstream from the downstream end face of the mouthpiece nozzle. The nozzle conduit may be an axial conduit aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece nozzle (and mouthpiece portion). The nozzle conduit may have an axial length greater than the axial length of the circumferential wall such that the nozzle conduit protrudes into the mouthpiece portion from the upstream axial end of the mouthpiece nozzle. The nozzle conduit may define the downstream portion of the first flow path within the mouthpiece portion.
The at least one second outlet aperture of the mouthpiece nozzle may be in fluid communication with the respective second channel opening(s) through respective nozzle channel(s) in the mouthpiece nozzle. The/each nozzle channel may extend longitudinally within and parallel to the circumferential wall of the mouthpiece nozzle. The/each nozzle channel may be laterally off-set from the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece nozzle and from the nozzle conduit.
An inner surface of the circumferential wall of the mouthpiece nozzle may define an outer portion of the at least one nozzle channel. The nozzle conduit may define the inner portion of the at least one nozzle channel.
The mouthpiece nozzle may be rotated about a longitudinal axis of the aerosol delivery component and/or mouthpiece portion. The nozzle conduit may be rotatably secured within the mouthpiece portion.
There may be a plurality of second flow paths/second channels/second channel openings/second nozzle channels/second outlet apertures. For example, there may be two laterally opposed second flow paths, two laterally opposed second channels, two laterally opposed channel openings, two laterally opposed second nozzle channels and two laterally opposed second outlet apertures. They may be diametrically opposed either side of the nozzle conduit.
The plurality of second flow paths/second channels/second channel openings/second nozzle channels/second outlet apertures may be arranged to be equidistant from the nozzle conduit and spaced at regular intervals (e.g., the second channel openings/second outlet apertures may be arranged at regular intervals around the circumference of a circle whose centre is defined by the nozzle conduit).
The first flow path may comprise a constriction, such that the transverse cross-section of the first flow path at the constricted portion is smaller than the transverse cross-section of the at least one second flow path.
The constriction may comprise an aerosolisation chamber. The aerosolisation chamber may be defined by the nozzle conduit. The first aerosolisation portion may comprise a liquid transfer element in fluid communication with the first liquid aerosol precursor and having an aerosol-generating portion within the aerosolisation chamber.
As discussed above, the first flow path may be open when the mouthpiece nozzle is in the first position. In these embodiments, in the first position, the flow rate through the second flow path is greater than through the first flow path as a result of the constriction such that, as the user inhales at the mouthpiece nozzle in the first position, flow of the second aerosol is preferentially through the second flow path.
As discussed above, the second flow path may be blocked when the mouthpiece nozzle is in the second position. For example, in the second position, the only open flow path may be the first flow path such that, as the user inhales at the mouthpiece nozzle in the second position, flow of the second aerosol is only through the first flow path.
According to a second aspect there is provided an aerosol delivery component comprising:
a first aerosolisation portion configured to generate a first aerosol from a first aerosol precursor;
a second aerosolisation portion configured to generate a second aerosol from a second aerosol precursor;
a mouthpiece portion having a first outlet aperture for outlet of the first and second aerosols and at least one second outlet aperture for outlet of the second aerosol; and
a mouthpiece cap having a first cap member moveable between a closed position in which the at least one second outlet aperture is closed, and an open position in which the at least one second outlet aperture is open.
By providing a mouthpiece cap having a cap member movable between a closed position in which the at least one second outlet aperture is closed (such that both first and second aerosol pass through the first outlet aperture), and an open position in which the second outlet aperture is open (such that only second aerosol passes through the second outlet aperture), the user can choose to inhale either a combination of the first and second aerosols through the first outlet aperture (with the cap member in the closed position) or inhalation of only the second aerosol through the second outlet aperture (with the cap member in the open position).
Optional features of the second aspect will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination.
The first aerosolisation portion may be downstream of the second aerosolisation portion.
The terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used with reference to the direction of airflow (from a component inlet to a component outlet) through the component during normal use of the component (i.e., by way of inhalation at the mouthpiece portion). Similarly, the terms “upper” and “lower” are used with reference to the component during normal use (i.e., in an upright orientation (i.e., with the mouthpiece portion uppermost)).
There may be a first flow path extending from the second aerosolisation portion to the first outlet aperture and a second air flow path extending from the second aerosolisation portion to the at least one second outlet aperture.
The first aerosolisation portion may be in fluid communication with (only) the first flow path.
The first flow path may extend downstream of the at least one second flow path. The first outlet may be downstream of the at least one second outlet.
The first flow path may comprise a downstream portion (e.g., downstream of the second flow path) extending to the first outlet aperture that is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion. The first outlet aperture may be substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion. Thus, the first outlet aperture may be a central, axial aperture in the downstream axial end wall of the mouthpiece portion.
There may be a plurality of second outlet apertures/second flow paths. For example, there may be two laterally opposed second outlet apertures/flow paths. The second outlet aperture(s) may be (a) lateral aperture(s) in the wall(s) (e.g., side wall(s)) of the mouthpiece portion.
The second flow path is selectively obstructable by movement of the first cap member to the closed position, i.e., in the closed position of the first cap member, the first cap member blocks the at least one second outlet aperture and thus blocks the second flow path. In the closed position, the first outlet aperture and thus the first flow path is not blocked by the first cap member.
The first cap member may be rotatably/pivotally/hingedly mounted on the mouthpiece portion. The first cap member may be rotatably/pivotally/hingedly mounted about a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion.
In the closed position, the first cap member may at least partly enclose at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion, e.g., it may enclose/overlie/abut (side) walls of the mouthpiece portion. It may also enclose/overlie/abut the downstream axial end wall of the mouthpiece portion.
In the open position, the first cap member may be pivoted so that it no longer encloses the (side) walls/downstream axial end face of the mouthpiece portion.
The first cap member may comprise a central portion and two depending side arms with the ends of the side arms distal the central portion pivotally connected to the mouthpiece portion, e.g., to the side walls of the mouthpiece component. In the closed position, the side arms enclose/overlie/abut the side walls of the mouthpiece portion thus blocking the at least one second outlet aperture. The side arms may have a shape conforming to the shape of the side walls of the mouthpiece portion. The central portion may enclose/overlie/abut the downstream axial end face of the mouthpiece portion.
The first cap member may comprise a cap aperture, e.g., a central cap aperture which may be aligned with the first outlet aperture when the first cap member is in the closed position. In this way, the first and second aerosols can pass along the first flow path to the first outlet aperture and then through the cap aperture to the user. The central cap aperture may be provided in the central portion of the first cap member.
In the open position, the first cap member is pivoted away from overlying the at least one second aperture, i.e., so that the side arms no longer enclose/overlie/abut the side walls of the mouthpiece portion and the central portion no longer encloses/overlies/abuts the downstream axial end face of the mouthpiece portion.
The first flow path may comprise a constriction (downstream of the second flow path) such that the transverse cross-section of the first air flow path at the constriction is smaller than the transverse cross-section of the at least one second air flow path.
The constriction may comprise an aerosolisation chamber. The first aerosolisation portion may comprise a liquid transfer element in fluid communication with the first liquid aerosol precursor and having an aerosol-generating portion housed within the aerosolisation chamber.
In some embodiments, the first outlet aperture is open in the open position. In these embodiments, in the open position, the flow rate through the second flow path is greater than through the first flow path as a result of the constriction such that, as the user inhales at the mouthpiece portion with the first cap member in the open position, flow of the second aerosol is preferentially through the second air flow path.
In other embodiments, the first outlet aperture/first flow path is blocked in the open position of the first cap member. In these embodiments, the mouthpiece cap may further comprise a second cap member which movable to block the first outlet aperture when the first cap member is in the open position.
The second cap member may be rotatably/pivotally/hingedly mounted on the mouthpiece portion. The second cap member may be rotatably/pivotally/hingedly mounted about a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion, e.g., to the same transverse axis about with the first cap member is mounted.
The second cap member may comprise a central portion and two depending side arms with the ends of the side arms distal the central portion pivotally connected to the mouthpiece portion, e.g., to the side walls of the mouthpiece component. The central portion is preferably solid, i.e., un-apertured. At least one of the side arms may comprise a side aperture.
When the first cap member is in the open position, the second cap member may enclose at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion, e.g., it may enclose/overlie/abut side walls of the mouthpiece portion when the first cap member is in the open position. It may also enclose overlie/abut the downstream axial end wall of the mouthpiece portion. The side arms of the second cap member may enclose/overlie/abut the side walls of the mouthpiece portion with the at least one side aperture aligned with a respective second outlet aperture such that second aerosol can pass from the second flow path through the at least one outlet/side apertures. The side arms of the second cap member may have a shape conforming to the shape of the side walls of the mouthpiece portion. The central portion may enclose/overlie/abut the downstream axial end face of the mouthpiece portion thus blocking the first outlet aperture/first flow path.
When the first cap member is in the closed position, the second cap member may be pivoted out of abutment with the side walls/downstream axial end face of the mouthpiece portion so that the mouthpiece portion is no longer enclosed by the second cap member.
The first and second cap members may each before formed of a stretchable and/or conformable material such as silicone to assist in the conforming of the side arms to the side walls of the mouthpiece portion.
The following features are applicable to both the first and second aspects unless stated otherwise. They are applicable singly or in any combination.
The first aerosolisation portion may be a passive aerosolisation portion configured to generate the first aerosol without application of heat.
The first aerosol precursor may be a flavoured precursor in which case the first aerosol will be a flavoured aerosol. For example, it may comprise a liquid flavourant having a menthol, liquorice, chocolate, fruit flavour (including, e.g., citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g., ginger, cinnamon) and/or tobacco flavour. In this way, the user can choose to inhale a flavoured aerosol by moving the mouthpiece nozzle to the first position or, with the first cap member in the closed position, the user can choose to inhale a flavoured aerosol by moving the first cap member to the closed position.
The first aerosol may be sized to inhibit pulmonary penetration. The first aerosol may be formed of particles with a mass median aerodynamic diameter that is greater than or equal to 15 microns, e.g., greater than 30 microns, or greater than 50 microns, or may be greater than 60 microns, or may be greater than 70 microns.
The first aerosol may be sized for transmission within at least one of a mammalian oral cavity and a mammalian nasal cavity. The first aerosol may be formed by particles having a maximum mass median aerodynamic diameter that is less than 300 microns, or, e.g., less than 200 microns, or less than 100 microns. Such a range of mass median aerodynamic diameter can produce aerosols which are sufficiently small to be entrained in an airflow caused by a user drawing air through the aerosol delivery component and to enter and extend through the oral and or nasal cavity to activate the taste and/or olfactory receptors.
The size of aerosol formed without heating may be typically smaller than that formed by condensation of a vapour.
It is noted that the mass median aerodynamic diameter is a statistical measurement of the size of the particles/droplets in an aerosol. That is, the mass median aerodynamic diameter quantifies the size of the droplets that together form the aerosol. The mass median aerodynamic diameter may be defined as the diameter at which 50% of the particles/droplets by mass in the aerosol are larger than the mass median aerodynamic diameter and 50% of the particles/droplets by mass in the aerosol are smaller than the mass median aerodynamic diameter. The “size of the aerosol”, as may be used herein, refers to the size of the particles/droplets that are comprised in the particular aerosol.
The second aerosolisation portion may be an active aerosolisation portion configured to generate the second aerosol by application of energy, e.g., heat or vibration energy. The active aerosolisation portion may comprise a vaporiser having a heating element.
The second aerosol precursor may be an e-liquid.
The aerosol delivery component may be a smoking substitute component (e.g., an e-cigarette component).
The aerosol delivery component may be a consumable part of an aerosol delivery system, e.g., a consumable for a smoking substitute system. In this regard, the component may be a termed “a consumable”.
The aerosol delivery component may comprise a tank defining a storage chamber for containing the first aerosol precursor. The first aerosol precursor may be stored in the form of a free liquid. Alternatively, a porous body may be disposed within the storage chamber, which may contain the first aerosol precursor.
The tank may at least partially define the first and/or at least one second flow path. For example, the first and/or at least one second flow path may be defined between an outer surface of the tank and an inner surface of a component housing (which may be integral with the mouthpiece portion).
The aerosol delivery component may comprise an air bleed channel configured to allow the bleeding of air into the storage chamber to replace (first) aerosol precursor that is removed from the storage chamber.
The first aerosolisation portion may comprise an aerosol generator in the form of a liquid transfer element in fluid communication with the first liquid aerosol precursor. The liquid transfer element may have an aerosol-generating portion housed within the aerosolisation chamber. The liquid transfer element may be a porous/wicking liquid transfer element (i.e., formed of a porous/wicking material). As will be described further below, the liquid transfer element may be configured to generate a first aerosol in the first flow path.
The liquid transfer element may further comprise a conveying portion. The conveying portion may be elongate and generally cylindrical, and may be at least partially enclosed within one or more internal walls of the aerosol delivery component. The one or more internal walls enclosing the conveying portion may form part of the tank defining the storage chamber. In this respect, the tank may at least partly surround (e.g., may fully surround) the conveying portion of the liquid transfer element. That is, the tank may define a conduit through which the conveying portion passes. Thus, the conveying portion may extend generally longitudinally (e.g., centrally) through a portion of the tank (i.e., through the conduit defined by the tank).
The liquid transfer element may be supported in the aerosol delivery component by the mouthpiece portion. That is, the mouthpiece portion may comprise a collar for holding (and gripping) the liquid transfer element in position within the aerosol delivery component.
The aerosol generating portion of the liquid transfer element may be disposed at a downstream end of the conveying portion and may thus define a downstream longitudinal end of the liquid transfer element. The aerosol generating portion may be at least partly located in the first flow path so as to be exposed to airflow within the first flow path The aerosolisation chamber may be located proximate to (and in fluid communication with) the first outlet aperture. Airflow through the first flow path may pass across (i.e., over the surface) or through the aerosol generating portion of the liquid transfer element prior to being discharged through the first outlet aperture.
The aerosol generating portion may define an enlarged (e.g., radially enlarged) portion of the liquid transfer element. For example, the aerosol generating portion may be bulb-shaped or bullet-shaped, and may comprise a portion which is wider than the conveying portion. The aerosol generating portion may taper (inwardly) to a tip at a downstream end of the aerosol generating portion (i.e., proximate the downstream axial end of the mouthpiece portion/first outlet aperture of the mouthpiece). The aerosol-generating portion may have a flattened downstream end surface.
The liquid transfer element may extend into the storage chamber so as to be in contact with (e.g., at least partially submerged in) the first aerosol precursor. In this way, the liquid transfer element may be configured to convey (e.g., via a wicking/capillary action) the first aerosol precursor from the storage chamber to the aerosolisation chamber. As will be described further below, this may allow the first aerosol precursor to form an aerosol and be entrained in an airflow passing through the aerosolisation chamber (i.e., for subsequent receipt in a user's mouth).
As discussed above, the flow passage may be constricted (i.e., narrowed) at the aerosolisation chamber. For example, the presence of the aerosolisation chamber in the first flow path may create a constricted or narrowed portion of the first flow path (because the aerosol generating portion extends partway across the first flow path). In this respect, the narrowest portion of the first flow path may be at the aerosolisation chamber (adjacent to the aerosol generating portion of the liquid transfer element). This constriction of the first flow path increases the velocity of air/vapour passing through the aerosolisation chamber. In this respect, the constriction may be referred to as a Venturi aperture. The constriction may have a toroidal shape (i.e., extending about the aerosol generating portion of the liquid transfer element). The toroidal shape may, however, be interrupted by supports (e.g., projections, ribs, etc.) protruding inwardly from wall(s) of the flow passage to support the aerosol generating portion in the aerosolisation chamber.
In addition to increasing the airflow velocity, the constriction reduces the air pressure of the airflow flowing through the constriction (i.e., in the vicinity of the aerosol generating portion). This low pressure and high velocity facilitate the generation of an aerosol from the first aerosol precursor held in the aerosol generating portion (i.e., transferred from the storage chamber by the liquid transfer element). This first aerosol is entrained in the airflow passing through the constriction and is discharged from the first outlet aperture.
The first and second flow paths may both comprise a generally longitudinal upstream portion. The longitudinal portion may extend within the spacing between the component housing (which may be integral with the mouthpiece portion) and the tank. The upstream longitudinal portions of the first/second air flow paths may be a single (annular) flow passage around the tank or they may comprise two branches which split around the tank.
The first flow path then deflects towards the aerosolisation chamber (and nozzle conduit where present) and downstream portion of the first air flow path. The second flow path(s) deflect(s) before the aerolisation chamber to the second channel(s) in the first aspect. In the second aspect, the second flow path(s) deflect(s) away from the aerosolisation chamber to the at least one second outlet aperture.
The above configuration of the aerosol delivery component may be representative of an activated state of the aerosol delivery component. The aerosol delivery component may additionally be configurable in a deactivated state. In the deactivated state, the liquid transfer element may be isolated from the first aerosol precursor. This isolation may, for example, be provided by a plug (e.g., formed of silicon). The plug may be located at an end (i.e., upstream end) of the conduit (defined by the tank) so as to provide a barrier between the first aerosol precursor in the storage chamber and the conveying portion of the liquid transfer element. Alternatively, the aerosol delivery component may comprise a duck bill valve, a split valve or diaphragm; or a sheet of foil isolating the liquid transfer element from the first aerosol precursor.
In the deactivated state, the air bleed channel may be sealed by a sealing element. The sealing element may, for example, be in the form of a bung or plug (e.g., a silicone bung or plug). At least a portion of the bung may be received in the air bleed channel when the aerosol delivery component is in the deactivated state, so as to block the passage of airflow through the air bleed channel. The sealing element may alternatively be in the form of a pierceable membrane (e.g., formed of a metal foil) extending across the air bleed channel.
The mouthpiece portion may be movable relative to the tank defining the storage chamber. The mouthpiece portion may be movable relative to the air bleed channel. In particular, movement of the mouthpiece portion may be in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol delivery component.
The mouthpiece portion may comprise an activation member, which may protrude internally from an internal surface of the mouthpiece portion. When the mouthpiece portion is moved longitudinally in an upstream direction, i.e., towards the storage tank, a distal end of the activation member may engage the sealing element so as to move the sealing element (i.e., in the upstream direction) relative to the air bleed channel. This movement of the sealing element may open the air bleed channel, so as to allow airflow therethrough and so as to move the aerosol delivery component to the activated state.
When the sealing element is a bung, the bung may comprise an enlarged end that extends fully across the air bleed channel, and a neck portion that extends only partway across the air bleed channel. Movement of the bung along the air bleed channel by the activation member may cause the enlarged end of the bung to move into the storage chamber such that only the neck portion remains in the air bleed channel. Thus, airflow may be permitted through the air bleed channel between the neck portion and the walls of the air bleed channel.
When the sealing element is a pierceable membrane, the activation member may pierce the pierceable membrane when moved in the upstream direction. To facilitate such piercing, the activation member may be in the form of a blade, or may be pointed.
The movement of the mouthpiece portion may also cause longitudinal upstream movement of the liquid transfer element through the conduit defined by the tank. The conveying portion of the liquid transfer element may engage the plug (or duck bill valve, split valve, etc.) so as to disengage the plug from the end of the conduit. Removal of the plug in this way means that the conveying portion comes into contact with the first aerosol precursor (i.e., so as to be able to convey the first aerosol precursor to the aerosol generating portion of the liquid transfer element).
The passive aerosolisation portion may be engageable with the active aerolisation portion, for example, by way of an interference fit, snap-engagement, bayonet locking arrangement, etc.
The component housing may comprise opposing apertures for engagement with respective lugs provided on the active aerosolisation portion (cartomizer) to secure the component housing to the active aerosolisation portion (cartomizer). There may be two sets of longitudinally spaced lugs and two sets of longitudinally spaced apertures with only the downstream lugs engaged within the upstream apertures when the component is in its deactivated state. Movement of the mouthpiece portion/component housing cases engagement of the upstream lugs in the upstream apertures and the downstream lugs in the downstream apertures.
In other embodiments, the passive aerosolisation portion and the active aerosolisation portion may be integrally formed.
The second (active) aerosolisation portion may comprise a vaporising chamber and a vapour outlet channel for fluid flow therethrough. The vapour outlet channel may be fluidly connected to the first and at least one second flow path. The vapour outlet channel and vaporising chamber may fluidly connect a component inlet and the first/second flow paths. Thus, an airflow may be drawn into and through the active aerosolisation portion, and subsequently through the passive aerosolisation portion.
The aerosol delivery component, i.e., the active aerosolisation portion may comprise a reservoir defined by a container for containing a second aerosol precursor (which may be an e-liquid). The second aerosol precursor may, for example, comprise a base liquid and a physiologically active compound, e.g., nicotine. The base liquid may include an aerosol former such as propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine.
At least a portion of the container may be translucent or transparent. For example, the container may comprise a window to allow a user to visually assess the quantity of second aerosol precursor in the container. The vapour outlet channel may extend longitudinally through the container, wherein a channel wall of the vapour outlet channel may define the inner wall of the container. In this respect, the container may surround the vapour outlet channel, such that the container may be generally annular.
The second aerosolisation portion, i.e., the active aerosolisation portion may comprise a vaporiser. The vaporiser may be located in the vaporising chamber.
The vaporiser may comprise a wick. The vaporiser may further comprise a heater. The wick may comprise a porous material. A portion of the wick may be exposed to fluid flow in the vaporising chamber. The wick may also comprise one or more portions in contact with the second aerosol precursor stored in the reservoir. For example, opposing ends of the wick may protrude into the reservoir and a central portion (between the ends) may extend across the vaporising chamber so as to be exposed to air flow in the vaporising chamber. Thus, fluid may be drawn (e.g., by capillary action) along the wick, from the reservoir to the exposed portion of the wick.
The heater may comprise a heating element, which may be in the form of a filament wound about the wick (e.g., the filament may extend helically about the wick). The filament may be wound about the exposed portion of the wick. The heating element may be electrically connected (or connectable) to a power source. Thus, in operation, the power source may supply electricity to (i.e., apply a voltage across) the heating element so as to heat the heating element. This may cause liquid stored in the wick (i.e., drawn from the reservoir) to be heated so as to form a vapour and become entrained in fluid/air flowing through the vaporising chamber. This vapour may subsequently cool to form the second aerosol in the vapour outlet channel. This aerosol generation may be referred to as “active” aerosol generation, because it makes use of heat to generate the aerosol.
This second aerosol may subsequently flow from the vapour outlet channel to (and through) the first and/or second flow paths. As discussed above for the first aspect, where the mouthpiece nozzle is in the first position, the second aerosol preferentially flows along the first flow path, through the aerosolisation chamber within the nozzle conduit to the first outlet aperture. In the second aspect, where the first cap member is in the closed position, the second aerosol flows along the first flow path, through the aerosolisation chamber to the first outlet aperture. Thus, the fluid received through the first outlet aperture of the mouthpiece nozzle/aerosol delivery component may be a combination of the first aerosol and the second aerosol.
When the mouthpiece nozzle in the first aspect is in the second position, the second aerosol flows along the at least one second flow path through the at least one second channel to the at least one second channel opening. The second aerosol may the flow to the at least one second outlet aperture of the mouthpiece nozzle. The second aerosol does not pass through the constricted aerosolisation chamber and thus, the fluid received through the at least second outlet aperture of the mouthpiece nozzle contains no first aerosol, only second aerosol.
When the first cap member in the second aspect is in the open position, the second aerosol flows along the second flow path(s) to the second outlet aperture(s). As these are upstream of the aerosolisation chamber, the second aerosol does not pass through the constricted aerosolisation chamber and thus, the fluid received through the second outlet aperture(s) of the aerosol delivery component contains no first aerosol, only second aerosol.
The second aerosol generated is sized for pulmonary penetration (i.e., to deliver an active ingredient such as nicotine to the user's lungs). The second aerosol is formed of particles having a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than or equal to 10 microns, preferably less than 8 microns, more preferably less than 5 microns, yet more preferably less than 1 micron. Such sized aerosols tend to penetrate into a human user's pulmonary system, with smaller aerosols generally penetrating the lungs more easily. The second aerosol may also be referred to as a vapour.
In a third aspect there is provided an aerosol delivery system (e.g., a smoking substitute system) comprising a device having a power source, and a component as described above with respect to the first or second aspect.
The component may be engageable/engaged with the device such that the vaporiser of the component/consumable is connected to the power source of the device.
For example, the active aerosolisation portion may be configured for engagement with the device.
The device and the component (e.g., the active aerosolisation portion of the component) may be configured to be physically coupled together. For example, the component may be at least partially received in a recess of the device, such that there is snap engagement between the device and the component. Alternatively, the device and the component may be physically coupled together by screwing one onto the other, or through a bayonet fitting.
Thus, the component may comprise one or more engagement portions for engaging with a device.
In this way, one end of the component (i.e., the end of the active aerosolisation component comprising the component inlet) may be coupled with the device, whilst an opposing end (i.e., the end of the passive aerosolisation component comprising the outlet aperture) of the component may define the mouthpiece.
The device or the component may comprise a power source or be connectable to a power source. The power source may be electrically connected (or connectable) to the heater. The power source may be a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). An external electrical connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port may be provided for recharging this battery.
The component may comprise an electrical interface for interfacing with a corresponding electrical interface of the device. One or both of the electrical interfaces may include one or more electrical contacts. Thus, when the device is engaged with the component, the electrical interface may be configured to transfer electrical power from the power source to a heater of the component. The electrical interface may also be used to identify the component from a list of known types. The electrical interface may additionally or alternatively be used to identify when the component is connected to the device.
The device may alternatively or additionally be able to detect information about the consumable via an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of the component. In this respect, the component may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.
The device may comprise a controller, which may include a microprocessor. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heater (e.g., via the electrical contacts). A memory may be provided and may be operatively connected to the controller. The memory may include non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions which, when implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.
The device may comprise a wireless interface, which may be configured to communicate wirelessly with another device, for example a mobile device, e.g., via Bluetooth®. To this end, the wireless interface could include a Bluetooth® antenna. Other wireless communication interfaces, e.g., WiFi®, are also possible. The wireless interface may also be configured to communicate wirelessly with a remote server.
An airflow (i.e., puff) sensor may be provided that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation from a user). The airflow sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal to the controller that is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The airflow sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor. The controller may control power supply to the heater in response to airflow detection by the sensor. The control may be in the form of activation of the heater in response to a detected airflow. The airflow sensor may form part of the component or the device.
In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery component may be a non-consumable component in which one or both of the first and second aerosol precursors of the component may be replenished by re-filling the reservoir or storage chamber of the component (rather than replacing the consumable component). In this embodiment, the component described above may be integral with the device. For example, the only consumable portion may be the first and/or second aerosol precursor contained in reservoir and storage chamber of the component. Access to the reservoir and/or storage chamber (for re-filling of the aerosol precursor) may be provided via, e.g., an opening to the reservoir and/or storage chamber that is sealable with a closure (e.g., a cap).
In a fourth aspect there is provided a method of operating an aerosol delivery system as described above with respect to the third aspect, the method comprising engaging the component with the device so as to connect the vaporiser of the component with the power source of the device.
The method may comprise selecting and/or deselecting delivery of the first aerosol by rotating the mouthpiece nozzle between the first position and the second position.
The method may comprise moving the first cap member to the open position to select delivery of only the second aerosol through the at least one second outlet aperture. The method may comprise moving the first cap member to the closed position to select delivery of both the first and second aerosols through the first outlet aperture.
Another general concept disclosed herein relates to a smoking substitute apparatus having a separate storage for aerosol former and a capsule which may contain a property modifying agent and also having means to release the property modifying agent while keeping it separate from the aerosol former. This allows the user to experience modified properties when using the apparatus without having to store the apparatus with the property modifying agent and the aerosol former mixed. Further, it may allow the user to specify the quantity and type of flavour or other property modifying agent to be added to the aerosol former. Thus, it may enable the user to obtain a specific flavour or other property tailored to the user's needs. The separation of the aerosol former and the property modifying agent is beneficial to manufacturing processes, as larger volumes of unmodified (e.g., unflavoured) e-liquid can be produced and distributed, rather than modification being required during manufacture. This also reduces plant downtime as filling equipment no longer needs to be purged and cleaned between filling to prevent cross-contamination of differently modified aerosol formers.
Furthermore, the separate provision of a property modifying agent improves the quality of the vapour produced. When property modifying agent is included within the aerosol former, the exposure to heat during the vaporisation process causes thermal degradation of compounds in the property modifying agent (e.g., flavour compounds), which leads to increased level of toxins in the vapour. By instead providing an unmodified aerosol former and adding property modifying agent after vaporisation and at a downstream location away from the heating element, such effects of thermal degradation of the property modifying agent are reduced or eliminated.
According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a smoking substitute apparatus, comprising:
a compartment comprising an aerosol former,
a wick downstream of the compartment,
a cavity adjacent to the wick, adapted to receive and hold a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent, and
a cap, wherein
the cap is movable between a pre-activated position in which the cavity is adapted to hold an intact frangible capsule, and an activated position in which an impingement surface of the apparatus intrudes into the cavity;
such that, when a frangible capsule is positioned within the cavity, movement of the cap from the pre-activated position to the activated position ruptures the capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick.
The aerosol former may be an e-liquid. The e-liquid may, for example, comprise a base liquid and nicotine. The base liquid may include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine. The e-liquid may be flavourless. That is, the e-liquid may not contain any flavourant and may consist solely of a base liquid of propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine and nicotine.
The property modifying agent may comprise a flavourant. The flavourant may be provided in solid, gel or liquid form. It may include menthol, liquorice, chocolate, fruit flavour (including, e.g., citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g., ginger, cinnamon) and tobacco flavour. The flavourant may modify a flavour of the aerosol former upon contacting or mixing with the aerosol former. The property modifying agent may also be water which may provide improved flavour delivery to the user.
The frangible capsules may allow the property modifying agent to be stored therein, and therefore be kept separate from the aerosol former stored in the first compartment during transportation and storage. Once the property modifying agent is released, it is absorbed by the wick. Since the wick is downstream of the aerosol former, the property modifying agent is kept away from the aerosol former and any heating element which may degrade the property modifying agent, even after release of the property modifying agent. During inhalation, vapour is drawn up from the body containing the aerosol former, passing through the wick material where it is modified by the property modifying agent, for example to impart flavour.
The wick may be of any known porous fibre or polymer construction, such as cellulose acetate or polyethylene foam. The wick material is sized suitably to ensure at least all the property modifying agent can be absorbed without the wick becoming saturated. The wick allows vapour to be drawn through from the aerosol former by inhalation of the user. The wick material can be formed in a variety of shapes and may contain geometry to help encourage flavour transfer or reduce total particulate matter (TPM) loss. The wick may have a central hollow bore or the wick may have multiple bores. One or multiple hollow bores would reduce TPM loss but not reduce flavour delivery to the user. The wick material may also prevent any parts of the shell of the capsule shell from being inhaled by the user.
The wick may be pre-imbued with a property modifying agent prior to insertion into the wick recess of the cap. For example, the wick may be pre-imbued with a flavourant. This enables delivery of the property-modifying agent form the capsule alongside the property modifying agent already imbued in the wick.
In some embodiments, the cavity is defined between the cap and a base of the apparatus to which the cap is fitted, wherein the base and the cap are movable relative to one another causing the impingement surface to intrude into the cavity. In some embodiments, the impingement surface forms a part of the base of the apparatus, and moving the cap towards the base causes the impingement surface to intrude into the cavity.
In some embodiments the cap and the base are separate structures associated with one another in a friction fit arrangement. In some embodiments the friction fit allows for sliding of the cap relative to the base between the pre-activated position and the activated position. In some embodiments the base and the cap comprise a detent mechanism to temporarily hold the apparatus in the pre-activated position until the user activates the apparatus to move it into the activated position. The detent mechanism may comprise a tab on one of the base and the cap, and a complementary recess on the other of the base and the cap, to receive the tab. The tab may comprise an inclined surface to facilitate sliding of the apparatus into the activated position whilst preventing movement back into the pre-activated position.
Conveniently, the cap may be moveable between the pre-activated position and the activated position by a ratchet mechanism. This provides discrete separation of the two positions and the user may feel or hear a click that informs them the activated position has been reached.
The smoking substitute apparatus may comprise an aerosol-flow passage which provides fluid communication between the compartment comprising an aerosol former and a mouthpiece outlet through which aerosol leaves the apparatus during use. The wick may be located within the aerosol-flow channel. The cavity is adjacent to the wick. In some embodiments, the cavity is laterally displaced from the wick relative to the (longitudinal) direction of aerosol flow. In other words, the wick may lie within the aerosol-flow passage, and the cavity may lie outside the passage such that aerosol is not required to flow into or through the cavity. In this way, a capsule located within the cavity does not obstruct the aerosol-flow passage and does not block the longitudinal flow of aerosol through the passage. The cavity (and therefore any capsule held within the cavity during use) is located adjacent to the wick in a lateral direction, outside the passage.
Since the wick is downstream of the compartment comprising the aerosol former, the property modifying agent is released to the wick at a location downstream of the compartment.
In some embodiments the cavity adjacent to the wick, adapted to receive and hold a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent, comprises a recess within the cap. In other words, the cap defines a recess which forms at least part of the cavity and is adapted to receive at least part of the capsule. In some embodiments the cap is a structure having a generally concave shape and the recess is located within an internal wall of the cap, such that when the concave cap having the recess is pushed onto a base having a complementary convex structure, the capsule sits in a location between the internal wall of the cap and an external portion of the base. In this way, pushing the cap further into place towards the base may move the cap into the activated position to rupture the capsule.
The recess may form a portion of the cavity, with the remainder of the cavity which is adapted to hold the capsule being defined by an empty internal volume between the cap and the base.
In some embodiments, the impingement surface is a surface of a structure of the base of the apparatus onto which the cap is fitted. The structure may be a protrusion which, in the activated position of the cap, is adapted to extend into at least a portion of the volume occupied by the capsule when the capsule is held within the cavity.
In some embodiments, the impingement surface comprises a planar surface lying in a plane which is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the impingement surface relative to the cap when the cap is moved from the pre-activated position into the activated position. In this way, the plane of the impingement surface contacts the capsule in a blunt manner, increasing the force imparted on the capsule and ensuring rupture of the capsule under the minimal applied force by the user.
The structure carrying the impingement surface need not extend into the recess itself when the cap is in the activated position, provided that the impingement surface extends into at least a portion of the volume occupied by the capsule when the capsule is held within the cavity. In other words, the capsule itself may protrude from the volume of the recess when held within the cavity, such that the capsule may be ruptured by the impingement surface without the need for the surface to enter the recess itself. In this way, it is not necessary that the impingement surface have a shape, size or location to facilitate entry into the recess, provided that it is adapted to contact and put pressure on the capsule in the activated position.
The recess may be dimensioned to facilitate holding of the capsule in a fixed position. For example, for a spherical capsule, the recess may receive a portion of the capsule thereby providing a seat for the capsule to prevent the capsule “rolling” out of its position within the cavity.
In some embodiments, the recess within the inner wall of the cap is adapted to hold the capsule in position after the capsule has been received by the recess. In other words, once received by the recess the capsule may remain fixed in position within the recess when subjected to, e.g., normal gravitational forces. This may be achieved by a friction fit between the recess and the capsule, for example by tailoring the capsule diameter.
However, such fixing of the capsule within the recess itself is not necessary, provided that the capsule remains located in the cavity when the cap is in the pre-activated position. For example, the capsule may be held in position between the surface of the cap on one side and a surface of the base of the apparatus on the other side, such that the capsule is “sandwiched” in place prior to activation and rupture. The capsule may be held in position between the surface of the cap on one side and the impingement surface of the apparatus on the other side.
Optionally, the cavity may be adapted to receive and hold more than one frangible capsule. This enables the user to imbue the wick with multiple property modifying agents, potentially mixing and matching different properties or amplifying the effects of one property modifying agent.
Conveniently, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of cavities adjacent to the to the wick, wherein each cavity is adapted to receive and hold a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent. This enables the user to use multiple property modifying agents to alter the properties of the aerosol former. For example, the user may use two capsules containing the same flavourant for a more intense flavour, or the user may use a first capsule containing a first flavourant and a second capsule comprising a second flavourant, wherein the first and second flavourants are different, to mix flavours as desired.
In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a plurality of cavities adjacent to the to the wick, wherein each cavity is adapted to receive and hold a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent, and wherein each cavity is located outside the passage through which aerosol flows and is displaced from the passage and the wick in a lateral direction.
In some embodiments, the cap comprises a mouthpiece of the smoking substitute apparatus. The mouthpiece comprises an outlet through which aerosol leaves the smoking substitute apparatus during use. The outlet may be in fluid communication with an aerosol-flow passage in which the wick is located, and in fluid communication with the compartment comprising the aerosol former, such that when a user draws on the mouthpiece, aerosol passes along the passage, through the wick and out of the outlet of the mouthpiece within the cap. In this way a user is able to push downwards on the mouthpiece to move the cap from the pre-activated to the activated position, releasing the property modifying agent to the wick, and subsequent inhalation from the mouthpiece causes aerosol to pass out of the mouthpiece having been modified (e.g., flavoured) by the property modifying agent.
Advantageously, the cap may be moveable to a second activation position wherein the impingement surface of the apparatus advances further towards the cavity than in the activated position, such that when more than one frangible capsule is positioned with the same or different cavity, movement of the cap from the pre-activated position to the activated position ruptures a first capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick and movement from the activated position to the second activated position ruptures a second capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick. Using this mechanism, the user may rupture the frangible capsules at separate times, for example when a different flavour is desired, or a more intense flavour is desired.
Advantageously, the cavities may be arranged regularly around the wick. This ensures that when the property modifying agent is released from the capsules, it is released evenly around the wick and will be easily be distributed evenly throughout the wick. For example, the apparatus may have two cavities on opposite sides of the wick. The apparatus may have two cavities on opposite lateral sides of the wick, such that neither cavity lies in the path of aerosol flowing along the aerosol-flow passage.
Optionally, each cavity may have the same volume as each other in the activated position. This may enable the capsules to be ruptured at the same time with equal force of the impingement surface. The multiple cavities may be of identical dimensions, such that (provided that the capsules used in each cavity are the same size) the capsules will rupture at the same time.
Optionally, the cavities may have different dimensions compared to each other in the activated position. This may enable one frangible capsule to be ruptured and the property modifying agent released to the wick without rupturing a second frangible capsule. Therefore, the capsules can be ruptured at different times to each other and require different application of force from the impingement surface. This provides the user with more control over the properties of the aerosol.
In some embodiments, the cavity when the cap is in the pre-activated position defines an empty volume which is capable of receiving a sphere having a diameter of from 0.2 to 5.0 mm, for example from 0.5 to 5.0 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum diameter of a sphere which is capable of being received by the cavity when the cap is in the pre-activated position is from 0.2 to 5.0 mm, for example from 0.5 to 5.0 mm. In this way, the apparatus is able to hold a frangible capsule having a diameter within this range, which has been found to be suitable for delivering an appropriate volume of property modifying agent to the wick.
In some embodiments, the maximum diameter of a sphere which is capable of being received by the cavity when the cap is in the pre-activated position is D1 and the maximum diameter of the sphere which is capable of being received by the cavity when the cap is in the activated position is D2, wherein D2<D1. This ensures that a capsule of diameter D1 held within the cavity in the pre-activated position is ruptured by the impingement surface in the activated position. In some embodiments, (D1−D2) is from 0.1 to 3 mm, for example from 0.5 to 2 mm. In some embodiments, D1/D2 is from 1.2 to 1.8, for example from 1.4 to 1.7.
In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a first cavity and a second cavity, wherein the maximum diameter of a sphere which is capable of being received by the first cavity when the cap is in the pre-activated position is D1 and the maximum diameter of the sphere which is capable of being received by the first cavity when the cap is in the activated position is D2, and wherein the maximum diameter of a sphere which is capable of being received by the second cavity when the cap is in the pre-activated position is D3 and the maximum diameter of the sphere which is capable of being received by the second cavity when the cap is in the activated position is D4, wherein D2<D1 and D4<D3. In some embodiments, D1=D3. In some embodiments, D2=D4. In some embodiments, D1=D3 and D2=D4.
Advantageously, the apparatus may comprise a frangible capsule containing a flavourant in one cavity and a frangible capsule containing water in another cavity. This may improve flavour delivery. Water may allow for a quicker rate of absorption of the flavour compounds to the wick and ultimately the user. Water in this situation may act as a solvent and facilitate an increased and more efficient dissolution rate to the wick and thus allow for more flavour to be delivered to the user.
The smoking substitute apparatus of the fifth aspect does not contain the capsule but is adapted to receive the capsule. The apparatus may be supplied to the user without any capsule in place and the user is at liberty to independently obtain capsules having the desired property modifying agent (e.g., flavourant) and add them to the apparatus before use, for example by removing the cap and inserting the capsule into the cavity before replacing the cap and “activating” the apparatus. In this way the user may have complete control over the experience.
However, the capsule may be added to the apparatus during manufacture and supplied to the user in the pre-activated position, such that the user simply “activates” the apparatus by moving the cap into the activated position to release the property modifying agent if desired before use.
Therefore, according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a smoking substitute apparatus, comprising:
compartment comprising an aerosol former,
a wick downstream of the compartment,
a cavity adjacent to the wick,
a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent, the frangible capsule being located within the cavity, and
a cap, wherein
the cap is movable between a pre-activated position in which the cavity holds the intact frangible capsule, and an activated position in which an impingement surface of the apparatus is advanced further towards the cavity than in the pre-activated position;
such that movement of the cap from the pre-activated position to the activated position ruptures the capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick.
The apparatus of the sixth aspect comprises the apparatus of the fifth aspect, along with a capsule in position within the cavity.
The disclosure includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.
Suitable frangible capsules may have a diameter of 0.2 to 5.0 mm, for example 0.5 to 5.0 mm. This corresponds to a volume of 0.0000042 to 0.0090 ml of property modifying agent which may be encapsulated in the capsule. Therefore, the cavity may have dimensions of 0.2 to 6.0 mm in the preactivated position in order to accommodate the frangible capsule.
The frangible capsules may be ruptured under a force of 5 to 50 kg·m/s2. Preferably the frangible capsules may be ruptured under a force of 10 to 20 kg·m/s2. Therefore, the impingement surface may be capable of exerting a force of 5 to 50 kg·m/s2 on a capsule in the cavity. Preferably the impingement surface is capable of exerting a force of 10 to 20 kg·m/s2 on a capsule in the cavity.
The frangible capsules may be formed using a microencapsulation technique which combines the basic processing techniques of coextrusion, vibrational nozzle technique and, UV curing.
The coextrusion technique is a favourable method to produce medium-to-large-size microcapsules with an inner core-outer shell -morphology. Two immiscible liquids are simultaneously extruded through concentric nozzles in order to produce a biliquid stream. Under the influence of gravitational, centrifugal or other forces, this bi-liquid stream separates into discrete droplets taking on inner core-outer shell morphology.
The liquid outer shell is then made to undergo a physical or chemical change to harden the outer shell. This hardening may be affected by heating to remove a solvent or by cooling to solidify a molten shell material. This method provides a technically assisted clear separation of core and shell material. This method may be combined with vibrational nozzle technique. The vibrational nozzle technique is a well-established method for micro-granulation and matrix-type encapsulation. A laminar material stream is generated by means of a nozzle, which is subjected to sinusoidal vibrations. These vibrations induce constrictions of the stream leading to droplet separations. By proper frequency adjustment, very uniform droplets can be achieved. By using units up to several thousand nozzles, the process can easily be up scaled to industrial standards.
Capsule size is adjustable using this method. Monodispersity of capsules produced by the method may have a standard deviation of less than 2%.
In some embodiments, capsules have a sphericity of at least 0.95, for example at least 0.96, at least 0.97, at least 0.98 or at least 0.99.
The outer shell of the frangible capsule may have a viscosity at processing in the range of about 0.001 to 10 N·s/m2. The curing speed of the outer shell material, wherein the material is hardened, may be in the range of 0.01 to 0.1 s.
The outer shell material may be generated from monomeric components such as acrylate and methacrylate monomers or monomers comprising organic-inorganic hybrid material. Examples of monomeric materials suitable for generating the outer shell are shown in Table 1.
Photocurable materials may also be suitable for generating the outer shell material. By using a combination of a photo initiator, a monomer and an oligomer, capsules can be produced with varying parameters such as strength or wall thickness.
The properties of a photocured material, such as flexibility, adhesion, and chemical resistance may be provided by the functionalized oligomers present in the photocurable composite. The oligomer may be an epoxide, polyether, urethane, or polyester. In some instances, the oligomer is a polyurethane. In some instances, the oligomer is a polyether. In some instances, the oligomer is a polyester. Formulations for manufacturing capsules may comprise a mixture of several types of oligomers to achieve the desirable properties for a material, for example a combining any two or more of epoxide, polyether, urethane, or polyester.
The monomers used in radiation curable systems help control the speed of cure, crosslink density, final surface properties of the film, and viscosity of the resin. The monomers may be, for example, styrene, N-vinylpyrrolidone, and acrylates. Several different monomers may be used in the formulation. Examples of suitable monomers for photopolymerization are shown in Table 2.
The photo initiator may be a free radical photo initiator. For example, the photo initiator may be a benzoin ether, benzal ketal, phosphine oxide, benzophenone derivative, thioxanthone derivative or 1,2-diketone. Specific examples of photo initiators are shown in Table 3.
The disclosure includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.
So that the disclosure may be understood, and so that further aspects and features thereof may be appreciated, embodiments illustrating the principles of the disclosure will now be discussed in further detail with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
Aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
Referring to
The flavour pod 102 is configured to engage with the cartomizer 101 and thus with the device 100. The flavour pod 102 may engage with the cartomizer 101 via a push-fit engagement, a screw-thread engagement, or a bayonet fit, for example.
As will be appreciated from the following description, in other embodiments the cartomizer 101 and the flavour pod 102 may be combined into a single integrated component that implements the combined functionality of the cartomizer 101 and flavour pod 102.
As is set forth above, reference to a “consumable” component may mean that the component is intended to be used once until exhausted, and then disposed of as waste or returned to a manufacturer for reprocessing.
Referring to
Referring to
The consumable component 303 includes an upstream component inlet opening 306 and a downstream aperture 307 of the mouthpiece portion 309. In other examples, a plurality of inlets openings are included. Between, and fluidly connecting, the component inlet opening 306 and the aperture 307 there is a first flow path 401 (partly shown in
As above, the consumable component 303 includes a passive aerosolisation (flavour pod) portion 302. The flavour pod portion 302 is configured to generate a first (flavoured) aerosol for output from the aperture 307. The flavour pod portion 302 of the consumable component 303 includes a liquid transfer element 315. This liquid transfer element 315 acts as a passive aerosol generator (i.e., an aerosol generator which does not use heat to form the aerosol), and is formed of a porous material. The liquid transfer element 315 comprises a conveying portion 317 and an aerosol generating portion 322, which is located in the first flow path 401. In this example, the aerosol generating portion 322 is a porous nib.
When activated, as discussed in more detail below, a storage chamber 316 (defined by a tank 318) for storing a first aerosol precursor (i.e., a liquid comprising a flavourant) is fluidly connected to the liquid transfer element 315. The flavoured aerosol precursor, in this embodiment, is stored in a porous body within the storage chamber 316 (but may be a free-liquid). In the activated state, the liquid transfer element 315 is in contact with the flavoured aerosol precursor stored in the storage chamber 316 by way of contact with the porous body/free liquid.
The liquid transfer element 315 comprises the aerosol generating portion 322 and a conveying portion 317. The aerosol generating portion 322 is located at a downstream end (top of
The liquid transfer element 315 extends into and through the storage chamber 316, such that the conveying portion 317 is in contact with the contents of the storage chamber 316. In particular, an inner wall of the tank 318 defines a conduit 324, through which the liquid transfer element 315 extends. The liquid transfer element 315 and the conduit 324 are located in a substantially central position within the storage chamber 316 and are substantially parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the consumable component 303.
The porous nature of the liquid transfer element 315 means that the first (flavoured) aerosol precursor in the storage chamber 316 is drawn into the liquid transfer element 315. As the flavoured aerosol precursor in the liquid transfer element 315 is depleted in use, further flavoured aerosol precursor is drawn from the storage chamber 316 into the liquid transfer element 315 via a wicking action.
Before activation, the storage chamber 316 is fluidly isolated from the liquid transfer element 315. In this example, the isolation is achieved via a plug 320 (preferably formed from silicone) located at one end of a conduit 324 surrounding the liquid transfer element 315. In other examples, the plug may be replaced by any one of: a duck bill valve; a split valve or diaphragm; or a sheet of foil.
The storage chamber 316 further includes an air bleed channel 332, which in the deactivated state is sealed by a sealing element in the form of a pierceable membrane (preferably made from foil). Activation (or piercing) member 330, which projects inwardly from the mouthpiece 309, and may take the form of a blade, pierces the pierceable membrane and opens the air bleed channel 332 when the consumable component 303 is moved to the activated state (as is discussed in more detail below).
As discussed above, the aerosol generating portion 322 is located within the first flow path 401. The aerosol generating portion 322, by occupying a portion of the vapour flow passage 321, constricts or narrows the first flow path 401. This constricted or narrowed portion of the first flow path 401 defines an aerosolisation chamber 319 of the consumable component 303. The aerosolisation chamber 319, which is adjacent the aerosol generating portion 322, is the narrowest portion of the first flow path 401. The constriction of the first flow path 401 at the aerosolisation chamber 319 results in increased air velocity and a corresponding reduction in air pressure of the air flowing therethrough and thus may be referred to as a Venturi aperture. The aerosolisation chamber 319 is generally toroidal in shape (extending circumferentially about the aerosol generating portion 322), but this toroidal shape may include one or more interruptions where supports extend inwardly to contact the aerosol generating portion 322 and to support the aerosol generating portion 322 within the aerosolisation chamber 319.
The cartomizer portion 301 of the consumable component 303 includes a reservoir 305 (defined by a container) for storing a second (e-liquid) aerosol precursor (which may contain nicotine). A wick 311 extends into the reservoir so as to be in contact with (i.e., partially submerged in) the e-liquid aerosol precursor. The wick 311 is formed from a porous wicking material (e.g., a polymer) that draws the e-liquid aerosol precursor from the reservoir 305 into a central region of the wick 311 that is located in the vaporising chamber 325.
A heater 314 is configured to heat the central region of the wick 311. The heater 314 includes a resistive heating filament that is coiled around the central region of the wick 311. The wick 311 and the heater 314 generally define a vaporiser, and together with the reservoir 305 act as an active aerosol generator. The vaporiser (i.e., wick 311 and heater 314) and aerosol generating portion 322 are both at least partially located within the airflow passage, with the aerosol generating portion 322 being downstream of the vaporiser.
So that the consumable component 303 may be supplied with electrical power for activation of the heater 314, the consumable component 303 includes a pair of consumable electrical contacts 313. The consumable electrical contacts 313 are configured for electrical connection to a corresponding pair of electrical supply contacts in the device (not shown). The consumable electrical contacts 313 are electrically connected to the electrical supply contacts (not shown) when the consumable component 303 is engaged with the device. The device includes an electrical power source, for example a battery.
When the mouthpiece portion 309 is moved upstream, activation/piercing member 330 contacts and pierces a sealing element in the form of a pierceable membrane extending across the air bleed channel 332 thereby fluidly connecting the vapour flow passage 321 the storage chamber 316. This allows air from the vapour flow passage 321 to enter the storage chamber 316 as aerosol precursor is removed from the storage chamber 316 by the liquid transfer element 315.
In addition to piercing of the membrane by the piercing member 330, liquid transfer element 315 pushes on, and moves, plug 320 out of the conduit 324 which then allows liquid transfer element 315 to come into contact with the flavoured aerosol precursor stored in the storage chamber 316. The plug 320 may then be unconstrained within the storage chamber, or may be pushed by liquid transfer element 315 into a holding location.
Once activated, and in use, a user draws (or “sucks”, “pulls”, or “puffs”) on the mouthpiece portion 309 of the consumable component 303, which causes a drop in air pressure at the aperture 307 thereby generating air flow through the inlet opening 306, along the first flow path 401 and into the user's mouth.
When the heater 314 is activated by passing an electric current through the heating filament in response to the user drawing on the mouthpiece portion 309 (the drawing of air may be detected by a pressure transducer), the e-liquid located in the wick 311 adjacent to the heating filament is heated and vaporised to form a vapour in the vaporising chamber 325. The vapour condenses to form the second (e-liquid) aerosol within the vapour outlet channel 323. The e-liquid aerosol is entrained in an airflow along the vapour flow passage 321 and along the first flow path to the aperture 307 for inhalation by the user when the user draws on the mouthpiece portion 309.
The device supplies electrical current to the consumable electrical contacts 313. This causes an electric current flow through the heating filament of the heater 314 and the heating filament heats up. As described, the heating of the heating filament causes vaporisation of the e-liquid in the wick 311 to form the e-liquid aerosol.
The flavoured aerosol is sized to inhibit pulmonary penetration. The flavoured aerosol is formed of particles with a mass median aerodynamic diameter that is greater than 70 microns. The flavoured aerosol is sized for transmission within at least one of a mammalian oral cavity and a mammalian nasal cavity. The flavoured aerosol is formed by particles having a maximum mass median aerodynamic diameter that is less than 100 microns. Such a range of mass median aerodynamic diameter will produce aerosols which are sufficiently small to be entrained in an airflow caused by a user drawing air through the device and to enter and extend through the oral and or nasal cavity to activate the taste and/or olfactory receptors.
The e-liquid aerosol generated is sized for pulmonary penetration (i.e., to deliver an active ingredient such as nicotine to the user's lungs). The e-liquid aerosol is formed of particles having a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 1 micron. Such sized aerosols tend to penetrate into a human user's pulmonary system, with smaller aerosols generally penetrating the lungs more easily. The e-liquid aerosol may also be referred to as a vapour.
The size of aerosol formed without heating (in the passive aerosolisation portion) is typically smaller than that formed by condensation of a vapour (formed within the active aerosolisation portion).
The consumable component 303′ further comprises a mouthpiece nozzle 403.
The mouthpiece nozzle 403 is rotatably mounted on the mouthpiece portion 309′ so as to be rotatable about the central longitudinal axis 350. The mouthpiece nozzle 301 comprises a circumferential wall 413 comprising a series of longitudinally-extending ridges to facilitate gripping, and rotation, of the mouthpiece nozzle 403 by the user.
The downstream end face 414 of the mouthpiece nozzle 403 comprises a frusto-conical concave surface which comprises a (circular) first outlet aperture 404 aligned with the central longitudinal axis 350, and two (elliptical) second outlet apertures 405a, 405b laterally off-set from and diametrically opposed either side of the first outlet aperture 404. The second outlet apertures 405a, 405b are downstream of the first outlet aperture. The frusto-conical surface of the downstream end face 414 of the mouthpiece nozzle 403 extends downstream from the first outlet aperture.
The first outlet aperture 404 is in fluid communication with the first flow path 401 as shown in
As can be seen in
The consumable component 303′ (i.e., the mouthpiece portion 309′) further includes two second channels 416a, 416b which define the downstream portions of two second flow paths 402 (which can be seen in
The second channel openings 400a, 400b are laterally off-set from and diametrically opposed either side of the nozzle conduit 415.
In
As the second channel openings 400a, 400b are blocked by the downstream end face of the mouthpiece nozzle (thus blocking the second flow path 402), the second (e-liquid) aerosol is forced to flow along the first flow path 401, picking up first (flavoured) aerosol as it passes through the aerosolisation chamber 319. Thus the user can inhale both e-liquid and flavoured aerosol through the first outlet aperture 404 of the mouthpiece nozzle 403.
The mouthpiece nozzle 403 is rotated about the central longitudinal axis 350 to the second position. The second outlet apertures 405a, 405b of the mouthpiece nozzle 403 are in alignment with the second channel openings 400a, 400b of the mouthpiece portion 309, and the second flow path 402.
As the second channel openings 400a, 400b are not blocked, the e-liquid aerosol from the active aerosolisation portion can flow through the mouthpiece portion 309 along the second air flow path 402 to the second channel openings 400a, 400b.
Although the first outlet aperture 404 remains open, the constriction in the first flow path 401 provided by the aerosol generating portion 322 of the liquid transfer element 317 within the aerosolisation chamber 219, means that the second aerosol flows preferentially along the second air flow path 402. In this way, the user inhales only e-liquid aerosol and no flavoured aerosol through the second outlet apertures 405a, 405b of the mouthpiece nozzle 403.
The component shown in
The component shown in
The first air flow path 401 extends to the first outlet aperture 307 which is a central aperture aligned with the longitudinal axis of the component. The second air flow path 402 extends to the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b which are lateral apertures provided in a mouthpiece portion 309 of the consumable component 303.
When the consumable component of the
When the heater 314 is activated by passing an electric current through the heating filament in response to the user drawing on the mouthpiece portion 309 (the drawing of air may be detected by a pressure transducer), the e-liquid located in the wick 311 adjacent to the heating filament is heated and vaporised to form a vapour in the vaporising chamber 325. The vapour condenses to form the second (e-liquid) aerosol within the vapour outlet channel 323. The e-liquid aerosol is entrained in an airflow along the vapour flow passage 321 and either along the first flow path 401 to the first outlet aperture 307 or along the second flow path 402 to the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b for inhalation by the user when the user draws on the mouthpiece portion 309.
As discussed below, when the first cap member 404 is in the closed position with the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b blocked (as shown in
The first cap member 404 is pivotally connected to side walls 405 of the mouthpiece portion 309 so as to be pivotable about an axis transverse to the longitudinal direction of the component.
In the open position, the first cap member 404 is pivoted so that the mouthpiece portion 309 is not enclosed by the first cap member 404. The first cap member 404 simply rests against the mouthpiece portion 309 so that the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b in the side walls 405 of the mouthpiece portion 309 are exposed.
In this way, second aerosol from the active aerosolisation portion can flow through the mouthpiece portion 309 along the second air flow path 402 to the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b.
Although the first outlet aperture 307 remains open, the constriction in the first air flow path 401 provided by the aerosol generating portion 322 of the liquid transfer element 317 within the aerosolisation chamber 319, means that the second aerosol flows preferentially along the second air flow path 402. In this way, the user inhales only second (e-liquid) aerosol and no first (flavoured) aerosol.
The first cap member 404 is rotated about the transverse axis to the closed position. The first cap member comprises a central portion 406 and opposing side arms 407. The central portion 406 comprises a cap aperture 408. The first cap member 404 is formed of stretchable silicone material so that it can be stretched to form a tight fit over the side walls 405 and the downstream axial end face 409 of the mouthpiece portion. In doing so, the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b in the side walls 405 of the mouthpiece portions are blocked by the side arms 407a, 407b of the first cap member 404. The cap aperture 408 is aligned with the first outlet aperture 307.
As the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b are blocked (thus blocking the second flow path 402), the e-liquid aerosol is forced to flow along the first flow path 401, picking up flavoured aerosol as it passes through the aerosolisation chamber 319. Thus, the user can inhale both e-liquid and flavoured aerosol.
It can be seen in
The mouthpiece cap comprises a first cap member 404 as shown in
The mouthpiece cap 403 further comprises a second cap member 411. The second cap member 411 is pivotally connected to side walls 405 of the mouthpiece portion 309 so as to be pivotable about the same transverse axis (and same pivot pins 410) as the first cap member 404.
The second cap member 411 is similar to the first cap member 404 and comprises a central portion 406a which fits over the downstream axial end of the mouthpiece portion 309 and side arms 407a which fit over the side walls 405 of the mouthpiece portion 309 when the first cap member 404 is in the open position.
The central portion 406a of the second cap member 411 is solid and thus blocks the first outlet aperture 307 when the central portion 406a overlies the downstream axial end face of the mouthpiece portion 309 as shown in
In this way, when the first cap member 404 is in the open position (i.e., is not enclosing the mouthpiece portion), the second cap member is pivoted to enclose the mouthpiece portion such that the first flow path 401 is blocked by the central portion 406a and the second air flow path remains open through alignment of the side apertures 412 with the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b. In this way, e-liquid aerosol from the active aerosolisation portion can flow through the mouthpiece portion 309 along the second air flow path 402 to the second outlet apertures 500a, 500b.
When the first cap member 404 is rotated about the transverse axis to the closed position (as shown in
As is apparent from
The system 701 is configured to vaporise an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 704. The e-liquid 704 comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 704 is flavourless (and does not include any added flavourant). That is, if the e-liquid 704 were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavour or taste.
As is more apparent from
The tank 705 surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 706 that extends between an inlet 707 and an outlet 708 at opposing ends of the consumable 703. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 703 that engages with the main body 702, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 703 that comprises a mouthpiece 709 of the system 701. When the consumable 703 is engaged with the main body 702, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 709 so as to draw air through the passage 706, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 707 to the outlet 708 of the passage 706. Although not illustrated, the passage 706 may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 703. The passage 706 is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 703 and the main body 702 (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 701 is drawn into the passage 706 (during an inhale).
The smoking substitute system 701 is configured to vaporise the e-liquid 704 for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 703 comprises a heater having of a porous wick 710 and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 711 that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 710. The porous wick 710 extends across the passage 706 (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 706) and opposing ends of the wick 710 extend into the tank 705 (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 704). In this way, e-liquid 704 contained in the tank 705 is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 710 to a central portion of the porous wick 710 so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 706 (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).
The helical filament 711 is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 710 and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 712 mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 702 (when engaged). When the consumable 703 is engaged with the main body 702, the electrical contacts 712 contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 702. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 702, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 711 is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 702 to the filament 711 in order to heat the filament 711. This heat is transferred from the filament 711 to the porous wick 710 which causes e-liquid 704 conveyed by the porous wick 710 to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporises. The vaporised e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporisation point at the filament 711 and the outlet 708 of the passage 706, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 709, by a user of the system 701.
The power source of the main body 702 may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). The main body 702 may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 702 may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 711). That is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 711. In this way, the filament 711 may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 702 may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.
Although not shown, the main body 702 and consumable 703 may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 703 engaged with the main body 702. In this respect, the consumable 703 may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.
The capsule recesses 802, 803 are adjacent to the wick recess 801 and form part of the cavity when the cap is connected to the compartment comprising an aerosol former.
The capsule recesses 802, 803 are positioned uniformly around the wick recess 801. That is, the capsule recesses 802, 803 are positioned on opposite sides of the wick recess 801, located at the same distance from the wick recess 801.
The capsule recesses 802, 803 are at equal depth in the cap 800 such that the capsules 804, 805 protrude to an equivalent extent from the cap 800. This ensures that they rupture simultaneously when an impingement surface advances towards the capsules.
The cap 800 is prevented from moving from the pre-activated position to the activated position by a detent mechanism. The detent mechanism comprises a tab 602 on the base and a first complementary recess 603 on the cap to receive the tab 602 and a second complimentary recess 604 on the cap. The tab 602 has an inclined surface to facilitate sliding of the apparatus into the activated position whilst preventing the movement back into the pre-activated position. Thus, the detent mechanism acts like a ratchet. This mechanism also fits the cap 800 to the base 600.
To release the property modifying agent the cap is moved from the preactivated position shown in
The impingement surface 601 in
Since the capsule cavities 902, 903 have the same volume compared to each other, the capsules 902, 903 are crushed at the same time by the impingement surface 601 while applying equal force to each.
Once the outer shell 807 is broken and the property modifying agent 808 is released into the wick 806, the wick 806 may also act a filter. That is, the wick 806 prevents any fragments of outer shell 807 caused by the rupturing of the capsule 804, 805 from being inhaled by the user.
The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the disclosure in diverse forms thereof.
While the disclosure has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined in the claims.
For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.
Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.
Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “have”, “comprise”, and “include”, and variations such as “having”, “comprises”, “comprising”, and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.
It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to a numerical value is optional and means, for example, +/−10%.
The words “preferred” and “preferably” are used herein refer to embodiments of the disclosure that may provide certain benefits under some circumstances. It is to be appreciated, however, that other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different circumstances. The recitation of one or more preferred embodiments therefore does not mean or imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, or from the scope of the claims.
NON-LIMITING ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTSFurther aspects and embodiments are disclosed in the following numbered paragraphs:
1. An aerosol delivery component comprising:
a first aerosolisation portion configured to generate a first aerosol from a first aerosol precursor;
a second aerosolisation portion configured to generate a second aerosol from a second aerosol precursor;
a mouthpiece portion having a first outlet aperture for outlet of the first and second aerosols and at least one second outlet aperture for outlet of the second aerosol; and
a mouthpiece cap having a first cap member moveable between a closed position in which the at least one second outlet aperture is closed, and an open position in which the at least one second outlet aperture is open.
2. A component according to paragraph 1 wherein the first aerosolisation portion is downstream of the second aerosolisation portion.
3. A component according to paragraph 1 or 2 comprising a first flow path extending from the second aerosolisation portion to the first outlet aperture and a second air flow path extending from the second aerosolisation portion to the at least one second outlet aperture.
4. A component according to paragraph 3 wherein the first aerosolisation portion is in fluid communication with the first flow path.
5. A component according to any of one paragraphs 1 to 4 wherein the first flow path comprises a constriction.
6. A component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 5 wherein the first cap member is pivotally mounted about a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion.
7. A component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 6 wherein, in the closed position, the first cap member at least partly encloses the mouthpiece portion.
8. A component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 7 wherein the first cap member comprises a central portion having a cap aperture and two depending side arms, wherein the cap aperture is aligned with the first outlet aperture in the closed position.
9. A component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 8 wherein the mouthpiece cap further comprises a second cap member which movable to block the first outlet aperture when the first cap member is in the open position.
10. A component according to paragraph 9 wherein the second cap member is pivotally-mounted on the mouthpiece portion.
11. A component according to paragraph 9 or 10 wherein the second cap member comprises a central portion and two depending side arms wherein at least one of the side arms comprises a side aperture for alignment with the at least one second outlet aperture.
12. A component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 11 wherein the first and/or second cap member(s) are formed of a silicone.
13. A component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 12 wherein the first aerosolisation portion is a passive aerosolisation portion and the second aerosolisation portion is an active aerosolisation portion.
14. An aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 13 and a device comprising a power source.
15. A method of operating an aerosol delivery system comprising inserting an aerosol delivery component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 13 into a device comprising a power source, moving the first cap member to the open position to select delivery of only the second aerosol through the at least one second outlet aperture or moving the first cap member to the closed position to select delivery of both the first and second aerosols through the first outlet aperture.
16. A smoking substitute apparatus comprising:
a compartment comprising an aerosol former,
a wick downstream of the compartment,
a cavity adjacent to the wick, adapted to receive and hold a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent, and
a cap, wherein
-
- the cap is movable between a pre-activated position in which the cavity is adapted to hold an intact frangible capsule, and an activated position in which an impingement surface of the apparatus intrudes into the cavity;
- such that, when a frangible capsule is positioned within the cavity, movement of the cap from the pre-activated position to the activated position ruptures the capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick.
17. The smoking substitute apparatus according to paragraph 16, wherein the cavity is adapted to receive and hold more than one frangible capsule.
18. The smoking substitute apparatus according to paragraph 16 or 17, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of cavities adjacent to the to the wick, wherein each cavity is adapted to receive and hold a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent.
19. The smoking substitute apparatus according to paragraph 18, wherein the cavities are arranged regularly around the wick.
20. The smoking substitute apparatus according to paragraph 19, wherein the apparatus has two cavities on opposite sides of the wick.
21. The smoking substitute apparatus according to any of paragraphs 18 to 20, wherein the dimensions of each cavity are the same as one another in the activated position.
22. The smoking substitute apparatus according to any of paragraphs 18 to 20, wherein the dimensions of each cavity differ from one another in the activated position.
23. The smoking substitute apparatus according to any of paragraphs 18 to 22, wherein the apparatus comprises a frangible capsule containing a flavourant in one cavity and a frangible capsule containing water in another cavity.
24. The smoking substitute apparatus according to any one of paragraphs 16 to 23 wherein the cap is moveable to a second activation position wherein the impingement surface of the apparatus intrudes further into the cavity than in the activated position; such that when more than one frangible capsule is positioned with the same or different cavity, movement of the cap from the pre-activated position to the activated position ruptures a first capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick and movement from the activated position to the second activated position ruptures a second capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick.
25. The smoking substitute apparatus according to any of paragraphs 16 to 24, wherein the cavity is defined between the cap and a base of the apparatus to which the cap is fitted, wherein the base and the cap are movable relative to one another causing the impingement surface to intrude into the cavity.
26. The smoking substitute apparatus according to paragraph 25, wherein the impingement surface forms a part of a base of the apparatus, and moving the cap towards the base causes the impingement surface to intrude into the cavity.
27. The smoking substitute apparatus according to paragraph 25 or 26, wherein the cap and the base are separate structures associated with one another in a friction fit arrangement.
28. The smoking substitute apparatus according to paragraph 27, wherein the base and the cap comprise a detent mechanism to temporarily hold the apparatus in the pre-activated position until the user activates the apparatus to move it into the activated position.
29. A smoking substitute apparatus, comprising:
a compartment comprising an aerosol former,
a wick downstream of the compartment,
a cavity adjacent to the wick,
a frangible capsule comprising a property modifying agent, the frangible capsule being located within the cavity, and
a cap, wherein
-
- the cap is movable between a pre-activated position in which the cavity holds the intact frangible capsule, and an activated position in which an impingement surface of the apparatus is advanced further towards the cavity than in the pre-activated position;
- such that movement of the cap from the pre-activated position to the activated position ruptures the capsule to release the property modifying agent to the wick.
Claims
1. A component for an aerosol delivery system comprising:
- a first aerosolisation portion configured to generate a first aerosol from a first aerosol precursor;
- a second aerosolisation portion configured to generate a second aerosol from a second aerosol precursor; and
- a mouthpiece nozzle rotatable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the component is configured to supply the first aerosol and the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle, and in the second position the component is configured to supply only the second aerosol through the mouthpiece nozzle.
2. A component according to claim 1, wherein the second aerosolisation portion is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece nozzle through a first flow path and a second flow path, wherein the first flow path further fluidically connects the first aerosolisation portion to the mouthpiece nozzle.
3. A component according to claim 2, wherein the second flow path is selectively obstructable by rotation of the mouthpiece nozzle.
4. A component according to claim 2 comprising a component housing having a mouthpiece portion, the mouthpiece nozzle being rotatably mounted on the mouthpiece portion, wherein the mouthpiece portion comprises a first channel defining the first flow path, and at least one second channel defining the second flow path.
5. A component according to claim 4, wherein the mouthpiece nozzle comprises a first aperture in alignment with the first channel and at least one second aperture, wherein the mouthpiece nozzle is rotatable such that the at least one second aperture is aligned with the respective at least one second channel in the second position and un-aligned in the first position.
6. A component according to claim 5, wherein the first aperture of the mouthpiece nozzle is in fluid communication with the first channel through a first nozzle channel, and
- when the mouthpiece nozzle is in the second position, the at least one second aperture is in fluid communication with the respective at least one second channel through a respective at least one second nozzle channel.
7. A component according to claim 4, wherein the first channel is a longitudinally-extending channel axially aligned with the axis of the component and wherein the at least one second channel is a longitudinally extending channel laterally off-set from the axis of the component.
8. A component according to claim 2, wherein the first flow path comprises a constriction such that the transverse cross-section of the first flow path at the restricted portion is smaller than the transverse cross-section of the second flow path.
9. A component according to claim 8, wherein the constriction comprises an aerosolisation chamber housing an aerosol-generating portion of a liquid transfer element in fluid communication with the first aerosol precursor.
10. A component according to claim 1, wherein the first aerosolisation portion is a passive aerosolisation portion configured to generate the first aerosol without application of heat.
11. A component according to claim 1, wherein the first aerosol precursor is a flavoured precursor, and the first aerosol is a flavoured aerosol.
12. A component according to claim 1, wherein the second aerosolisation portion is an active aerosolisation portion comprising a heating element.
13. An aerosol delivery device system comprising a component according to claim 1 and a device comprising a power source.
14. (canceled)
Type: Application
Filed: Sep 9, 2022
Publication Date: Apr 13, 2023
Inventors: Andrew AUSTIN (Liverpool), Andrew TYLER (Liverpool), Ian STUART (Liverpool), Steven MAXWELL-HOGG (Liverpool), Samantha MURRAY (Liverpool)
Application Number: 17/930,879
