RU2774803C1 - Aerosol generating element with infrared heating - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol production.

SUBSTANCE: aerosol generating element for generating an aerosol in a hookah device containing a receiver for placing an aerosol-forming substrate and a photonic device made with the ability to generate an IR beam, and the aerosol generating element is made with the ability to heat the aerosol-forming substrate by directing the IR beam onto the aerosol-forming substrate. The present invention additionally relates to a hookah device containing the said aerosol generating element, to an aerosol generating system containing the said hookah device and an aerosol generating product, and to a method for aerosol formation in a hookah device. The aerosol generating element according to the present invention provides an alternative heating system in which the substrate forming the aerosol is heated as a result of absorption of IR radiation.

EFFECT: heating with IR radiation provides the advantage of high speed, flexibility and efficiency of heating.

20 cl, 6 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating element for generating an aerosol in a hookah device. More specifically, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating element in which an aerosol is generated by heating an aerosol-forming substrate with infrared (IR) radiation. The present invention further relates to a hookah device comprising an aerosol generating element, an aerosol generating system comprising a hookah device and an aerosol generating article, and a method for generating aerosol in the hookah device.

Traditional hookah devices are used to smoke a tobacco substrate and are designed in such a way that the vapor and smoke pass through a bulb of water before being inhaled by the consumer. Hookah devices may contain one outlet or more than one outlet, so that it is possible to use the device at the same time by more than one consumer. Many consider the use of hookah devices as a way of spending leisure time and social experience.

Traditional hookah devices use charcoal to heat or burn a tobacco substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by the user. During use of a traditional hookah device, high levels of carbon monoxide and unwanted combustion by-products such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, as well as other harmful and potentially harmful components, can be generated. Carbon monoxide can be generated by charcoal, as well as from the combustion of tobacco substrate.

One way to reduce the formation of carbon monoxide and combustion by-products is to use electric heaters, such as resistance heaters, instead of charcoal, which heat the tobacco substrate to a temperature sufficient to form an aerosol from said substrate without burning the substrate.

However, compared to traditional charcoal-fired hookah devices, electrically heated devices can have negative points such as less total aerosol mass, less visible aerosol, less aerosol volume, or any combination of the above. The deterioration of one or more of these properties of the aerosol can be especially pronounced during the first puffs due to poorer contact between the substrate and the heated surface. Therefore, the time taken to heat the substrate until the first puff for consumption (TT1P time) is available can be relatively long compared to traditional charcoal-heated hookah devices.

In traditional hookahs, charcoal provides a unique heating characteristic because it does not simultaneously and uniformly heat all of the aerosol-forming substrate at the same time. Moving charcoal to different points at the required speed is an important part of the ritual and feeling of smoking traditional hookahs.

It would be desirable to provide a hookah device that would reduce the production of carbon monoxide and unwanted combustion by-products compared to traditional charcoal hookah devices.

It would be desirable to provide a hookah device with a heating characteristic that matches, resembles or mimics the ritual and feel of smoking traditional hookahs.

In various aspects of the present invention, an aerosol generating element is provided for generating an aerosol in a hookah device. The aerosol-generating element comprises a receiver for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a photonic device configured to generate an IR beam. Said aerosol-generating element is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate by directing an IR beam onto the aerosol-forming substrate.

Thus, the photonic device acts as an IR emitter. In general, the aerosol generating element of the present invention uses infrared radiation to heat one or more components of the aerosol generating substrate. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco, as will be described below.

Thus, the aerosol-generating element of the present invention provides an alternative heating system in which the aerosol-generating substrate is heated by absorbing IR radiation. IR heating provides the advantage of high speed, flexibility and heating efficiency.

Unlike conduction or convection, radiation carries energy through electromagnetic waves. As a consequence, the presence of an intermediate medium or "coolant" is not required. This makes it possible to help reduce the time required to bring the aerosol-forming substrate to the desired temperature. This can be particularly useful during the preheating period of the aerosol-forming substrate. In addition, no physical contact is required between the aerosol generating element and the aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol-generating element of the present invention allows non-contact heating of an aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol-generating element may be used with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. In particular, the aerosol generating member can contain and heat the aerosol generating substrate to generate the aerosol. The aerosol-generating substrate may be heated, but not incinerated, by the aerosol-generating element. The aerosol generating element may include a heating element. The heating element may comprise an electrical heating element.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating element may comprise elements of a conventional hookah device, such as any of the following: a receptacle for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate, a cover plate for covering said receptacle, a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate, a foil for covering said cartridge, and at least one pellet of charcoal to heat the aerosol-forming substrate.

Different materials absorb IR radiation at different frequencies. Proper choice of wavelength makes it possible to promote efficient heating of certain substances, while other substances will remain at much lower temperatures. Accordingly, the aerosol generating element of the present invention enables targeted heating depending on one or more components of the aerosol generating substrate. Targeted IR radiation does not necessarily heat the surrounding air. This means that more efficient heating can be achieved. In addition, a freer design is provided, since the air gap does not lead to large heat losses, as is the case in a traditional electrically heated hookah system. Thus, potentially less insulating material is needed.

It is possible to manipulate the IR beams so that only a specific area of the aerosol-forming substrate is irradiated. In addition, IR absorption is known to be associated with low transmittance. The IR rays allow only the irradiated portion of the aerosol-forming substrate to be heated. Accordingly, the aerosol generating element of the present invention enables targeted heating depending on space.

Another advantage of the IR heating means of the present invention is the rapid thermal response. It is possible to heat the aerosol-forming substrate substantially only during irradiation.

In addition, IR heating provides high flexibility in the spatial arrangement of the IR emitter and substrate. This opens up wide possibilities for the geometric design of the element generating the aerosol and the hookah device.

In some embodiments, an IR beam may be manipulated between a photonic device and an aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the implementation is preferably provided to facilitate the manipulation of the IR beam through the optical element.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating element further comprises an optical element positioned between the photonic device and said receiver and configured to manipulate the IR beam.

The expression "IR beam manipulation" may include any changes to the optical path of the IR beam. Examples include any of the following: IR beam reflection, IR beam deflection, IR beam narrowing, and IR beam widening.

The term "optical element" includes any element that is capable of manipulating an IR beam. Examples include mirrors, curved mirrors, lenses, convex lenses and concave lenses. The concave lenses allow the IR beam to expand and thus the ability to reduce the energy density of the IR beam. Such a configuration may be particularly useful for maintaining the substrate at a given reduced temperature for long periods of time when a puff is not being performed, such as during a preheat step or between puffs. Convex lenses allow narrowing of the IR beam, and thus the ability to increase the energy density of the IR beam. A narrowed or focused beam allows certain areas of the substrate to be used up quickly.

According to one or more embodiments, the optical element of the aerosol generating element of the present invention may be located on the optical holder. The optical holder may be movable. The movement of the optical holder can be mechanical, electrical or electromechanical. The movement may be by any suitable means. Examples may include stepper motors and/or eccentric screws. The movement can be done manually by the user. Preferably, the movement is carried out automatically by means of electronically controlled components.

The location of the optical element can be adjusted during use by means of the optical holder. The optical element located on the optical holder makes it possible to manipulate the infrared radiation beam. The optical element located on the optical holder provides the possibility of dynamic manipulation of the infrared radiation beam.

The term "movable optical holder" includes any type of holder for an optical element that allows the optical element to be moved to different locations or in different directions relative to the incident IR beam. Thus, it is possible to change the manipulation of the infrared radiation beam with the optical element by moving the optical element by means of a movable optical holder.

The expression "dynamic manipulation of the IR beam" means that it is possible to manipulate the IR beam during use of the aerosol generating element in the hookah device.

The expression "during use" can refer to any point in time when the use of the hookah device by the user takes place. The expression "during use" can refer to any moment in time when the hookah device is turned on. The expression "during use" can refer to any point in time when power is supplied to the photonic device. The expression "during use" may refer to a point in time during a puff or between puffs.

Manipulation of the infrared radiation beam can be carried out using a movable optical holder. The mechanical, electronic or electromechanical movement may be by any suitable means. Examples may include stepper motors, eccentric screws, piezoelectric screws, or combinations thereof. The movement can be done manually by the user. Preferably, the movement is carried out automatically by means of electronically controlled components.

In general, the process of dynamic manipulation of the IR beam can be controlled by a computer program executing in an electronic circuit. Some or all of the dynamic manipulation may be controlled automatically, for example in accordance with a computer program. The computer program may be stored on a computer-readable medium for non-volatile data storage. One or more aspects of dynamic manipulation may be partially or wholly controlled by the user. For example, the user can adjust the speed of dynamic manipulation. The user can control the location on the substrate to which the IR beam is directed. For example, means may be provided that allow user input of commands and thus the ability to dynamically manipulate the IR beam according to the user's preferences. Such means may be any suitable means known to those skilled in the art. An example is a control block containing a user interface. In some embodiments, the user interface may comprise electronic, mechanical, or electromechanical user interface means.

Dynamic manipulation of the IR beam allows dynamic manipulation of the beam path. Thus, dynamic manipulation of the IR beam makes it possible to irradiate different regions of the aerosol-forming substrate. Thus, dynamic manipulation of the IR beam allows the aerosol-forming substrate to be selectively irradiated, which in turn allows the aerosol to be selectively generated. The dynamic manipulation of the IR beam enables sequential irradiation of the aerosol-forming substrate. With the aerosol generating element of the present invention, it is possible to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating substrate. The sequential heating can be partially or completely controlled by the user. The aerosol generating element of the present invention can simulate the movement of charcoal on top of the substrate, and thus further enables the traditional smoking ritual to be preserved.

The photonic device of the aerosol generating element functions as an IR emitter. When choosing a suitable IR emitter, the composition of the aerosol-forming substrate must be taken into account. The IR emitter may be selected based on one or more properties of the IR emitter. One or more properties of the IR emitter may be selected depending on one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, said one or more properties of an IR emitter may include any of the following: wavelength, frequency, spot size, bias source, pulsed/continuous wave type, energy and power, or any combination of the above. For example, the emission wavelength of the IR emitter may be selected based on the absorption of IR radiation by one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate. The wavelength of the IR emitter may be selected based on the transmission of IR radiation by one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate.

The emission wavelength of the IR emitter may correspond to the IR absorption bands of the aerosol-forming substrate component. The wavelength of the IR emitter may correspond to the IR absorption bands of the two or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate.

For example, the wavelength of the IR emitter may correspond to IR absorption bands of one or more of glycerol, molasses, sugars, invert sugars, tobacco, tobacco product, or any other component of the aerosol-forming substrate, as will be described below.

The term "wavelength" may refer to a single wavelength, a plurality of individual wavelengths, a range of wavelengths, a plurality of wavelength ranges, or any combination thereof.

For example, a relatively large amount of glycerol may be present in the aerosol-forming substrate, and the wavelength requirements may be adapted to the strong absorption bands of glycerol. Bands of strong IR absorption by glycerol are found at IR wavelengths from 1300 nanometers to 2000 nanometers. Accordingly, it is possible for the IR emitter to emit IR radiation in the range of 800 nanometers to 2300 nanometers, preferably 1300 nanometers to 2000 nanometers.

In some embodiments, it is possible for the IR emitter to emit IR radiation with a power in the range of 0.1 watt to 30 watts, preferably 0.5 watt to 25 watts, more preferably 1 watt to 20 watts, and more preferably 1 watt to 3 watts. Watt. In some embodiments, relatively high power is used to preheat the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, relatively low power is used to deliver puffs on demand.

When operating in "puffs on demand" mode, the IR emitter must be able to bring the minimum amount of aerosol generating substrate required to generate aerosol in one puff to 250 degrees Celsius in no more than 5 seconds, preferably no more than 2 seconds, preferably no more than 1 second. The minimum amount of aerosol generating substrate required to generate aerosol per puff can be up to 1.2 cubic centimeters.

In some embodiments, the energy density of the IR beam may range from 0.010 watts per square centimeter to 30 watts per square centimeter, preferably from 0.050 watts per square centimeter to 6 watts per square centimeter, and more preferably from 0.100 watts per square centimeter up to 3 watts per square centimeter.

In some embodiments, the IR beam diameter may range from 1 millimeter to 110 millimeters, preferably from 2 millimeters to 100 millimeters, and more preferably from 5 millimeters to 80 millimeters. In general, relatively large diameters are used to preheat the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, comparatively small diameters are used for on-demand tightening.

The term "IR beam diameter" may refer to the diameter of that region of the aerosol-forming substrate that is directly irradiated by the IR beam.

The distance between the IR emitter and the aerosol-forming substrate may be up to 30 centimeters, preferably up to 20 centimeters, and more preferably up to 10 centimeters.

The regulation of the heating intensity of the aerosol-forming substrate using an IR emitter can be carried out by moving the heating wavelength by a small amount, leaving the resonance relative to the wavelength that has already been selected. This provides the advantage of maximizing uptake of the desired compound, such as glycerol, in the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the heating intensity of the aerosol-forming substrate may be controlled by varying the power supplied to the IR emitter.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the IR emitter may contain a laser. In some embodiments, the IR emitter may comprise a laser diode. The photonic device of the aerosol generating element of the present invention may comprise an IR laser diode.

The photonic device of the present invention can be used as the sole heating means for heating the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the implementation of the photonic device of the present invention can be used in combination with one or more additional means of heating. Any heating means can be used as additional heating means. Examples include electrical heating means such as resistive heating means, induction heating means, or a combination of both of resistive heating means and induction heating means.

In one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating element may further comprise additional heating means, such as electrical heating means, configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate disposed in said receptacle. Additional electrical heating means may be in thermal contact with the receiver. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the receiver may be formed by additional electrical heating means.

Preferably, the additional heating means comprise resistive heating means. For example, the additional heating means may comprise one or more resistive wires or other resistive elements. The resistance wires may be in contact with the thermally conductive material to distribute the heat produced over a wider area. Examples of suitable conductive materials include aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, and combinations thereof. For the purposes of the present invention, if the resistive wires are in contact with a thermally conductive material, then the resistive wires and thermally conductive material are that part of the heating means which forms at least a portion of the surface of said receiver.

In some examples, the additional heating means comprise induction heating means. For example, the additional heating means may comprise a current collector material which forms the surface of said collector. In the context of this document, the term "sink" refers to a material that is capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat. When a current collector is placed in an alternating electromagnetic field, eddy currents are usually induced in the current collector and hysteresis losses may occur, which leads to heating of the current collector. Since the current collector is located in thermal contact with or in close thermal proximity to the aerosol-forming substrate, the substrate is heated by the current collector in such a way that an aerosol is formed. Preferably, the current collector is located at least partially in direct physical contact with the aerosol-forming substrate or a cartridge containing the aerosol-forming substrate.

The current collector can be made of any material that can be subjected to induction heating. The current collector may be made of any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferred current collectors contain metal or carbon. A preferred current collector may comprise or be composed of a ferromagnetic material such as ferritic iron, a ferromagnetic alloy such as ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel, and ferrite. A suitable current collector may be made of or comprise aluminum.

Preferred pantographs are metal pantographs, such as stainless steel. However, current collector materials may also contain graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, aluminium, niobium, inconel alloys (austenitic nickel-chromium based superalloys), metallized films, ceramics such as zirconium dioxide, transition metals such as such as Fe, Co, Ni, or semi-metals (metalloids), such as B, C, Si, P, Al, or they can be made from the above.

The current collector preferably contains more than 5%, preferably more than 20%, preferably more than 50% or 90% of ferromagnetic or paramagnetic materials. Preferred pantographs can be heated to temperatures in excess of 250 degrees Celsius. Suitable current collectors may comprise a non-metal core with a metal layer located on the non-metal core, such as metal tracks formed on the surface of the ceramic core.

The hookah device may also contain one or more inductors configured to create eddy currents and/or hysteresis losses in the current collector material, which leads to heating of the current collector material. The current collector material may also be placed in a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substrate. A current collector containing said current collector material may comprise any suitable material such as those described, for example, in PCT published patent applications WO 2014/102092 and WO 2015/177255.

Additional heating means, whether induction heating means or a current collector, may be thermally connected to the heating block. Additional heating means may be in direct contact with the heating block. The heating block may comprise any suitable thermally conductive material. In some embodiments, the heating block comprises aluminium, alumina, or alumina ceramic. The heating block may form the outer surface of the additional heating means.

The aerosol-generating member may heat the aerosol-generating substrate with the above-mentioned aerosol-generating heating means. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate is preferably heated to a temperature in the range of from about 150°C to about 250°C, more preferably from about 180°C to about 230°C, or from about 200°C to about 230°C.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the IR beam can be conceived as a consumable means, that is, the formation of an aerosol occurs essentially only where the IR beam irradiates the aerosol-forming substrate. If electrical heating means are additionally provided, then in some embodiments, these electrical heating means can maintain the substrate at a constant temperature below the vaporization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate. The IR heating means can provide additional energy to heat the compounds to a temperature above the vaporization temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate, thereby generating an aerosol.

In some embodiments, the IR beam allows for the rapid initial evaporation of a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate, while additional electrical heating means heating the majority of the aerosol-forming substrate for a longer period. In some conventional electrically heated arrangements, there may be a relatively long delay between turning on the electric hookah device to supply power to the electrically heated means and the time the user is able to take their first puff. This period of time is known in the art as "time to first puff" (TT1P). Thus, the combination of the IR beam and additional electrical heating means makes it possible to help reduce TT1P by providing an aerosol for the first one, two or more puffs through IR heating alone, until the additional electrical heating means is able to deliver a comparatively larger volume. aerosol-forming substrate to the evaporation temperature.

In one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating element comprises a window. The window may be located between the photonic device and the receiver. In one or more embodiments, said window may be substantially transparent to the IR beam. Said window may be located at a location between the optical element and the receiver. In these embodiments, the implementation allows the transmission of IR radiation to the specified receiver through the specified window. Thus, said window makes it possible to prevent the accumulation of residues on the surface of the IR emitter or optical element. This window serves to prevent contamination of the IR emitter and the optical element. Otherwise, residues such as dirt and debris may accumulate on the optical element and/or the IR emitter. Said window is less sensitive to such contamination and can be more easily cleaned. To this end, said window may be a removable component which is detachable from the cleaning device.

In one or more embodiments, the implementation of the optical element contains a mirror to reflect the beam of infrared radiation. The mirror can act as an optical element that manipulates the IR beam by reflecting the beam on said mirror. It is possible to control the size of the irradiated area of the aerosol-forming substrate by reflecting the IR beam by said mirror. The mirror may be a curved mirror.

Preferably, the radius or effective radius of the curvilinear mirror is not constant and can be manipulated dynamically. Suitable means for manipulating the radius of the curved mirror include, without limitation, water or air pressure. Suitable variable radius mirrors are commercially available and allow the beam characteristics to be dynamically changed during operation. For this purpose, the surface of the mirrors is made of a flexible material. By changing the applied pressure of water or air, the flexible surface of the mirror is deformed. This deformation changes the curvature of the mirror and allows dynamic manipulation of the IR beam.

Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to dynamically manipulate the location of the IR beam on the aerosol-forming substrate using an optical holder on which a mirror can be placed. For example, it is possible to dynamically manipulate the reflection angle of a mirror using a microstructured assembly or stepper motors.

In one or more embodiments, the IR beam comprises an incident IR beam propagating from the photonic device towards the curved mirror and a reflected IR beam propagating from the curved mirror to said receiver, wherein between the incident IR beam and the reflected the IR beam has an angle, preferably approximately 90 degrees. Thus, the beam is deflected through an angle, preferably around 90 degrees, by means of a curved mirror. Due to the deflection of the infrared radiation beam at a predetermined angle along its path from the photonic device to the specified receiver, it is possible to develop an aerosol generating element with different geometric parameters. For example, if the beam is deflected at a given angle, then the photonic device need not be placed in line with the irradiated surface of the aerosol-forming substrate contained in said receiver. This allows for a more compact design of the hookah device.

In one or more embodiments, the implementation of the optical element may contain lenses. The optical element may include one or more concave lenses to widen the IR beam towards said receiver and convex lenses to narrow the IR beam towards said receiver.

Concave lenses allow the IR beam to expand and thus reduce the energy density of the IR beam. Such a configuration can be particularly useful for maintaining the substrate at a given reduced temperature for long periods of time when a puff is not being performed, such as during a preheat step or between puffs.

Convex lenses allow narrowing of the IR beam and thus increase the energy density of the IR beam. A narrowed or focused beam allows certain areas of the substrate to be used up quickly.

In one or more embodiments, the optical element may include adjustable lenses that are capable of switching between convex and concave shapes. Similar to the adjustable mirrors described above, these adjustable lenses can be made from a flexible material and can be switched by varying the applied water or air pressure. As in the previous case, the pressure-induced deformation allows the curvature of the lenses to change.

In embodiments where the radius of the curvilinear mirror is not constant and can be dynamically manipulated in a manner similar to said lenses, said curvilinear mirror may be used as an optical element to selectively narrow and/or widen the IR beam. As a result of the increase in the radius of curvature of the curvilinear mirror, the beam expands in the direction of the specified receiver. As a result of reducing the radius of curvature of the curvilinear mirror, the beam narrows in the direction of the specified receiver.

In one or more embodiments, the implementation of the optical element may be connected to the control unit. The control unit may be positioned so that the user is able to select a specific area of the aerosol-forming substrate placed in said receptacle for heating with IR radiation. The control unit contains a user interface that allows the user to enter commands and thus the ability to manipulate the IR beam according to the user's preferences. The user interface may include a touch screen on which the user may indicate which area of the substrate is to be heated. The optical holder, which can be movable, for example by means of stepper motors, can then be actuated to direct the IR beam to a designated point on the substrate. In addition, the display can show which portions of the substrate have already been consumed or at least irradiated. A control unit can be provided to maximize the preservation of the ritual in non-charcoal hookahs. In general, according to the present invention, any suitable aerosol-forming substrate can be used. The aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Volatile compounds may be released as a result of heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid, or contain both solid and liquid components. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate contains a solid.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a nicotine salt matrix. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain material of vegetable origin. The aerosol-forming substrate preferably comprises tobacco, and the tobacco-containing material preferably contains volatile tobacco flavor compounds which are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized tobacco material. Homogenized tobacco material can be obtained by agglomeration of tobacco particles. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-free material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized plant material.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, one or more of the following: powder, granules, lumps, grains, tubes, strips, or sheets containing one or more of the following: grass leaf, tobacco leaf, tobacco vein fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco and blown tobacco.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol generating agent may be any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds which, when used, produces a dense and stable aerosol and which is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the hookah device. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, without limitation: polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerin; esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Particularly preferred aerosol forming agents are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and most preferably glycerol. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and ingredients such as flavoring agents. The aerosol-forming substrate preferably contains nicotine and at least one aerosol-forming agent. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating agent is glycerol.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain any suitable amount of an aerosol-forming agent. For example, the content of the aerosol generating agent may be 5% or more on a dry weight basis, preferably more than 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. The content of the substance to form an aerosol may be less than about 95% based on dry weight. Preferably, the aerosolizing agent content is up to about 55%.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermostable support. The carrier may comprise a thin layer, on the first main surface and/or on the second main surface of which the substrate is applied. The carrier may be, for example, paper or paper-like material, carbon fiber nonwoven mat, light open-cell metal mesh, perforated metal foil, or any other thermally stable polymeric matrix. Alternatively, the carrier may be present in the form of a powder, granules, grains, pieces, thin tubes, strips or sheets. The carrier may be a non-woven web or bundle of fibers in which tobacco components are included. The nonwoven web or fiber bundle may contain, for example, carbon fibres, natural cellulose fibers or fibers from cellulose derivatives.

In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate contains one or more sugars in any suitable amount. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate contains an invert sugar, which is a mixture of glucose and fructose obtained by separation of sucrose. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate contains from about 1% to about 40% by weight of sugar, such as invert sugar. In some examples, one or more sugars may be mixed with a suitable carrier such as cornstarch or maltodextrin.

In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate contains one or more sensory enhancers. Suitable substances for improving organoleptic properties include flavoring substances and substances that act on the senses, such as cooling agents. Suitable flavoring agents include natural or synthetic menthol, peppermint, spearmint, coffee, tea, spices (such as cinnamon, cloves and/or ginger), cocoa, vanilla, fruit flavors, chocolate, eucalyptus, geranium, eugenol, agave, juniper , anethole, linalool and any combination thereof.

In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate is present as a slurry. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may be present in the form of molasses. As used herein, the term "molasses" means an aerosol-forming substrate composition containing approximately 25% or more sugar. For example, molasses may contain at least about 30% by weight of sugar, such as at least about 40% by weight of sugar. Typically, molasses will contain less than about 60% by weight of sugar, such as less than about 50% by weight of sugar.

The term "tobacco material" refers to a material or substance containing tobacco, which contains, for example, tobacco blends or flavored tobacco.

In the context of this document, the term "aerosol" as used in describing an aerosol stream may refer to an aerosol, air containing an aerosol or vapor, or air with entrained aerosol. The vapor-containing air may be a precursor to the aerosol-containing air, for example after it has been cooled or accelerated.

The IR emitter can be adapted to the IR absorption bands by any of the components of the aerosol-forming substrate. The IR emitter can be adapted for IR transmission by any of the components of the aerosol-forming substrate.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hookah device comprising an aerosol generating element as described above. In one or more embodiments, the hookah device may further comprise an aerosol shaft and a liquid flask.

In use, the generated aerosol can pass through the aerosol shaft. An aerosol shaft may also be referred to herein as a stem tube. The aerosol shaft comprises a proximal end portion forming a proximal opening positioned to receive an air flow from an aerosol generating element. The shaft contains a distal end section forming a distal opening located in the inner region of the flask. The flask is configured to receive liquid up to the liquid filling level. The aerosol shaft is in fluid communication with the flask. An air flow channel may be formed between the aerosol generating element and the interior of the bulb. In particular, the aerosol generating element is in fluid communication with the flask through said shaft. The inner region of the flask contains a lower volume for receiving liquid and an upper volume for free space above the liquid. The flask contains an outlet of free space above the liquid, which communicates with the upper volume of the flask above the liquid filling level. In some embodiments, a hose may be connected to the headspace outlet. A mouthpiece can be connected to the hose for the user to puff on the hookah device.

The flask may contain an optically transparent or opaque body so that the contents contained in the flask can be seen by the consumer. The bulb may include a liquid fill mark, such as a liquid fill line. The bulb body may be made of any suitable material. For example, the bulb body may comprise glass or a suitable rigid plastic material. Preferably, the bulb is detachable from the portion of the hookah device containing the aerosol generating element to allow the user to fill or clean the bulb.

The flask can be filled up to the fill level with liquid. The liquid preferably contains water, to which colorants and/or flavors may be added, if necessary. For example, vegetable and/or herbal supplements may be added to the water. In some embodiments, the aerosol may be modified by being drawn through a liquid.

It is possible for air to flow through the aerosol generating element to draw aerosol from the aerosol generating element through the aerosol shaft. The aerosol shaft may form a channel for air flow. The air flow can exit the hookah device through the outlet of the free space above the liquid in the flask. It is possible for air to flow through the aerosol shaft as a result of applying negative pressure to the headspace outlet. The source of negative pressure may be suction or puffing by the user. As a result, the aerosol can be drawn through the aerosol shaft and through the liquid enclosed in the inner region of the flask. The user may draw through a mouthpiece in fluid communication with the headspace outlet to generate or provide negative pressure at the headspace outlet or on the mouthpiece. In some embodiments, the airflow may enter the hookah device's aerosol-forming substrate receptacle, flow along or through the aerosol-forming substrate, and entrain the aerosol. The aerosol-entrained air can then flow from the outlet in said receiver through the shaft into the flask.

In the context of this document, the expression "downstream" refers to the direction along the aerosol shaft from the aerosol generating element to the inner region. The expression "upstream" refers to a direction opposite to the specified downstream direction, or to the direction along the aerosol shaft from the interior of the bulb to the aerosol generating element.

The aerosol shaft is located between the aerosol generating element and the interior of the flask. The aerosol shaft may contain one or more components along the aerosol shaft. The aerosol shaft comprises a proximal end portion forming a proximal opening positioned to receive an air flow from an aerosol generating element. The aerosol shaft contains a distal end section forming a distal opening located in the inner region of the flask. The distal end portion of the aerosol shaft may extend into the volume of liquid in the interior of the bulb during use of the hookah device.

The aerosol well can be described as having a longitudinal axis through a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The transverse direction can be defined as the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. For example, the cross section, circumference, width, or diameter of the aerosol shaft may be defined in the transverse direction or in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is provided, comprising the hookah device of the present invention and an aerosol generating article. In general, the aerosol generating article is a consumable part that is removably installed in the receiver of the aerosol generating element. The aerosol generating article comprises an aerosol generating substrate.

In one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating article consists of an aerosol generating substrate. For example, the aerosol-generating article may be granulated hookah molasses. In one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a cartridge comprising an outer housing enclosing an aerosol generating substrate.

Generally, said receptacle is configured to receive an aerosol-generating substrate or an aerosol-generating article. Thus, the receptacle is configured to receive an aerosol-forming substrate or a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate.

The receiver may include any suitable number of openings in communication with one or more air inlets. In some embodiments, the implementation of the receiver may contain from 1 to 1000 holes, such as from 1 to 500 holes. The holes may be the same size or different sizes. The holes may have the same or different shapes. The holes may be evenly or unevenly distributed. Holes may be provided in the receiver at any suitable location. For example, holes may be provided in the top side and/or bottom side of the receptacle. Preferably, the holes are provided in the underside of the receiver.

The receptacle is preferably sized and shaped to allow contact between one or more walls or the top of the receptacle and an aerosol-forming substrate or a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate when the cartridge is placed in the receptacle. This provides the advantage of facilitating conductive heating of the aerosol-forming substrate by the heating element.

Preferably, the inside of the receptacle and the outside of the cartridge containing the aerosol-forming substrate are of similar size and shape. Preferably, the height to width ratio of the base (or diameter) of the inside of the receptacle is greater than about 1.5 to 1. Preferably, the height to width ratio of the base (or diameter) of the outside of the cartridge is greater than about 1.5 to 1. Such ratios allow more efficient use of the aerosol-forming substrate within the cartridge during use by allowing heat from the heating elements to penetrate into the middle of the cartridge. For example, in a receptacle and cartridge, the diameter (or width) of the base may be a factor of about 1.5 to about 5 times the height, or about 1.5 to about 4 times, or about 1.5 to about 3 times. Similarly, in the receptacle and cartridge, the height may exceed the diameter (or width) of the base by a factor of about 1.5 to about 5 times, or about 1.5 to about 4 times, or about 1.5 to about 3 times. Preferably, the height to base diameter ratio or base diameter to height ratio in the receptacle and cartridge is from about 1.5 to 1 to about 2.5 to 1.

In some embodiments, each of the inside of the receptacle and the outside of the cartridge has a base diameter in the range of about 15 millimeters to about 30 millimeters and a height in the range of about 40 millimeters to about 60 millimeters.

The receiver may be made from one or more parts. Preferably, the receiver is made of two or more parts. Preferably, at least one part of the receptacle is movable relative to the other to allow access to the interior of the receptacle to insert a cartridge into the receptacle. For example, one part may be releasably attachable to another part to allow insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate or a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate when said parts are separated. These parts can be made with the possibility of fastening in any suitable way, for example, through threaded engagement, friction fit, snap connection or the like. In some embodiments, these parts are attached to each other by means of a hinge. If said parts are hinged, these parts may also include a locking mechanism for locking said parts relative to each other when the receptacle is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the receptacle comprises a drawer that can be pulled out to allow the aerosol-forming substrate or cartridge to be placed in said drawer, and that can be pushed back to allow the hookah device to be used.

Any suitable aerosol generating article may be used with the hookah device described herein to at least partially contain the aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol generating article may comprise a cartridge. The cartridge and/or the contents of the cartridge may be arranged to be heated by a heating element. Alternatively, the receptacle may contain an aerosol-forming substrate that is not provided in the cartridge.

Preferably, the cartridge includes a thermally conductive body. For example, the body may contain any of the following: aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, and any combination of one or more of these. Preferably, the housing comprises aluminum. In some embodiments, the implementation of the cartridge contains one or more materials that are less thermally conductive than aluminum. For example, the housing may comprise any suitable thermostable polymeric material. If the material is thin enough, sufficient heat can be transferred through the housing to the aerosol-forming substrate placed therein, despite the fact that the housing is made of a material which has a relatively low thermal conductivity.

The cartridge may contain one or more holes. In some embodiments, said one or more openings may be provided in the top side and bottom side of the housing to allow air to flow through the cartridge during use. If the top side of the receptacle contains one or more holes, then at least some of the holes in the top side of the cartridge may be aligned with the holes in the top side of the receptacle. The cartridge may include an alignment element configured to mate with a complementary alignment element of the receptacle to align the cartridge openings with the receptacle openings when the cartridge is inserted into the receptacle. The openings in the cartridge body may be covered during storage to prevent the aerosol-forming substrate stored in the cartridge from leaking out of the cartridge. Additionally or alternatively, the openings in the cartridge body may be small enough to prevent or reduce the release of the aerosol-forming substrate from the cartridge. If the holes are covered, then the consumer can remove the cover before inserting the cartridge into the receptacle. In some embodiments, the hookah device is configured to pierce the cartridge to form holes in the cartridge. In some embodiments, the receiver of the hookah device is configured to pierce the cartridge to form holes in the cartridge.

The cartridge may be in any suitable shape. Preferably, the cartridge is in the form of a truncated cone or cylinder.

The cartridge may have a cap. The cover can be made with the possibility of removal. The removable cover may be removed prior to using the aerosol generating element to irradiate the aerosol generating substrate in the cartridge. This allows minimization of energy loss due to absorption by the material at the interface and allows maximization of direct irradiation of the aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge can be reusable so that the user buys the substrate separately and loads the substrate manually instead of buying pre-prepared hookah cartridges. This provides the advantage of being able to more closely mimic the traditional hookah smoking ritual.

In one or more embodiments, the aerosol-generating article comprises a cartridge comprising an outer shell enclosing an aerosol-forming substrate, and the aerosol-generating element is configured to either directly heat the aerosol-forming substrate within the cartridge, or directly heat the outer shell of the cartridge and indirectly heat the aerosol-forming substrate within. cartridge through the outer shell of the cartridge.

The hookah device may contain an electronic control circuit operatively connected to a resistive heating element, an inductor, a photonic device, an optical element and/or a movable optical holder. The electronic control circuit is configured to control the heating of the heating element.

The electronic control circuit may be provided in any suitable form. The electronic control circuit may include a controller. The electronic control circuit may include a memory. The memory may contain instructions that cause one or more components of the hookah device to perform functions or aspects of the electronic control circuit. The functions related to the electronic control circuit in the present invention may be implemented as one or more of software, firmware, and hardware. The memory may be a computer-readable medium for long-term storage of data.

In particular, one or more of the components such as controllers described herein may comprise a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), computer, logic array, or other device capable of directing data to or from the control electronics. . The controller may include one or more computing devices having memory, processing means, and communication hardware. The controller may include circuitry used to connect the various components of the controller to each other or to other components operatively coupled to the controller. The functions of the controller may be performed by hardware. The functions of the controller may be performed by instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium for non-volatile data storage. The functions of the controller may be performed either by hardware or by instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium for non-volatile data storage.

If the controller includes a processor, then that processor, in some embodiments, may include any one or more of the following: a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and an equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuit. In some embodiments, a processor may comprise a plurality of components, such as any combination of one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, and one or more FPGAs, as well as other discrete or integrated logic circuits. Functions referred to in this document as a controller or processor may be implemented in software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof. Although the controller is described herein as a processor based system, an alternative controller may use other components such as relays and timers to achieve the desired results, either alone or in combination with a microprocessor based system.

In one or more embodiments, exemplary systems, methods, and interfaces may be implemented using one or more computer programs and a computing device, which may include one or more processors and/or memory. Program code and/or logic described herein may be applied to input data or information to perform the functions described in this document and generate the desired output data/information. Said output or information may be used as input to one or more of the other devices or methods described herein, or they may be used in a known manner. From the foregoing, it clearly follows that the functions of the controller described in this document can be implemented in any way known to specialists in this field of technology.

In some embodiments, the control electronics may comprise a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The electronic circuit may be configured to control the power supply. The power supply to the heating element or to the inductor can be carried out in the form of electric current pulses.

If the heating element comprises a resistive heating element, then in some embodiments, the control electronics may be configured to measure or monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element. In some embodiments, the control electronics may be configured to control the supply of power to the heating element in response to the electrical resistance of the heating element. Thus, the electronic control circuit has the ability to control the temperature of the resistive element.

If the heating components comprise an inductor and said heating element comprises a current collector material, then in some embodiments, the control electronics may be configured to monitor the parameters of the inductor. In some embodiments, the implementation of the electronic control circuit may be configured to control the supply of power to the inductor depending on the parameters of this coil, such as described, for example, in WO 2015/177255. Thus, the electronic control circuit has the ability to control the temperature of the current collector material.

The hookah device may contain a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may contain a thermocouple. A temperature sensor may be operatively connected to an electronic control circuit to control the temperature of the heating elements. The temperature sensor may be located in any suitable location. For example, a temperature sensor may be configured to be inserted into an aerosol-forming substrate, or a cartridge that fits within said receptacle, to monitor the temperature of the heated aerosol-forming substrate. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature sensor may be in contact with the heating element. Additionally or alternatively, a temperature sensor may be positioned to sense the temperature at the aerosol outlet of the hookah device, such as the aerosol outlet of the aerosol generating element. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature sensor may be in contact with a cooling element such as the heated side of a heat pump. The sensor may send signals related to the sensed temperature to an electronic control circuit which may regulate the heating of the heating elements to achieve a suitable temperature at the sensor.

Any suitable thermocouple may be used, such as a type K thermocouple. The thermocouple may be placed in the cartridge at the location where the temperature is lowest. For example, a thermocouple may be placed in the center or in the middle of the cartridge. In some hookah devices, a thermocouple can be placed under an aerosol-forming substrate (such as molasses), for example by placing the thermocouple between the substrate receptacle and a heating element (such as charcoal) and then placing the substrate on top.

Whether or not the hookah device includes a temperature sensor, the device is preferably configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate disposed in said receptacle to a value sufficient to generate the aerosol without burning the aerosol-forming substrate.

The electronic control circuit can be functionally connected to the power source of the hookah device. The hookah device may contain any suitable power source. For example, the hookah device's power source may be a battery or a set of batteries (eg, a battery pack). In some embodiments, one or more of the battery components, such as the cathode and anode cells, or even the entire battery, may be adapted to match the geometry of the part of the hookah device in which they are placed. In some cases, a battery or battery component may be adapted to fit the geometry by running or assembly. The power supply batteries may be rechargeable. The power supply batteries can be removable or replaceable. Any suitable battery may be used. For example, heavy duty batteries or commercially available standard batteries such as those used in heavy duty industrial power tools. Alternatively, the power supply may be any type of electrical power supply containing a super or hypercapacitor. In some embodiments, the hookah device may be configured to be connected to an external electrical power source and may be electrically and electronically designed for this purpose. Regardless of the type of power source used, the power source preferably provides enough power to operate the hookah device normally for about 30 minutes, preferably at least about 50 minutes, more preferably at least 70 minutes of continuous device operation before needing to be recharged or plugged in. to an external power supply.

The hookah device may contain an accelerating element. The air pressure with entrained aerosol may decrease as it passes through one or more accelerating elements. The aerosol-entrained air then passes through the stem tube into the flask and can then be inhaled by the user. The accelerating element may be located along the aerosol shaft, for example along the air flow channel of the aerosol shaft. In particular, the accelerating element may be located along the aerosol shaft. The accelerating element may be integral with a portion of the air flow channel or aerosol shaft. The accelerating element may be configured to accelerate the aerosol that flows through the accelerating element.

The hookah device may contain a cooling element. The cooling element may be located along the air flow channel or aerosol shaft. The cooling element may be integral with a portion of the air flow path or aerosol shaft. The cooling element is adapted to cool the aerosol in the air flow channel, in particular the air that flows through or past the cooling element. The cooling element may be located downstream of the aerosol generating element along the air flow path. In particular, the cooling element may be located between the aerosol generating element and the end of the air flow channel, or at least between the aerosol generating element and the bulb. Additionally, the cooling element may be located adjacent to or as close as possible to the retardation chamber or retardation portion of the stem tube, which enables rapid cooling to be promoted for aerosol generation. The cooling element may use passive cooling and/or active cooling. The cooling element may include a tube of heat-conducting material.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for generating an aerosol in a hookah device. According to this method, an infrared radiation beam is generated using a photonic device. Next, an IR beam is directed from the photonic device to an aerosol-forming substrate placed in the receiver of the hookah device. Finally, the aerosol-forming substrate placed in the receiver is heated with an IR beam. Thus, the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate rises when IR radiation is absorbed. The temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate may increase upon absorption of IR radiation until it reaches the evaporation temperature at which the aerosol is formed.

In one or more embodiments of the method, the wavelength of the IR beam is selected to match the wavelength at which at least a component of the aerosol-forming substrate absorbs IR.

In one or more embodiments of the method, the method includes manipulating an IR beam prior to heating an aerosol-forming substrate placed in a hookah device receiver with an IR beam. In some embodiments of the method, manipulation of the IR beam includes using one or more optical elements to manipulate the IR beam. In some embodiments, said one or more optical elements may be provided on a movable holder. In this way, it is possible to selectively, for example sequentially, heat different regions of the aerosol-forming substrate.

In some embodiments of the method, it includes dynamic manipulation of the IR beam. In some embodiments, said dynamic manipulation may be performed by a movable optical element holder such that there is selective, eg sequential, heating of different regions of the aerosol-forming substrate.

In one or more embodiments of the method, it comprises heating the aerosol-forming substrate with additional electrical heating means. In this way, it is possible to simultaneously heat the aerosol-forming substrate with both of the IR beam and said additional electrical heating means.

Below, in chronological order, one way of using the hookah device described in this document is given as an example. The flask can be separated from the other components of the hookah device and filled with water. One or more of natural fruit juices, herbal supplements, and herbal supplements may be added to the water to add flavor and aroma. The amount of liquid added should cover part of the main shaft, but should not exceed the fill level mark, which, if necessary, may be present on the flask. The flask is then reattached to the hookah device. A portion of the aerosol generating element may be detached or opened to allow insertion of the aerosol generating substrate or cartridge into the receptacle. The aerosol generating element is then reattached or closed. The device can then be turned on. The user may puff from the mouthpiece until the required volume of aerosol is produced to fill the chamber having an inlet for air acceleration. The user can puff on the mouthpiece as desired. The user may continue to use the device until no more aerosol is visible in the chamber. Preferably, the device will automatically turn off when the available aerosol-forming substrate, contained in the cartridge or provided separately, is used up. Alternatively or additionally, the consumer may prime the device with a new aerosol-forming substrate or a new cartridge after, for example, receiving a signal from the device that the consumables are used up or substantially used up. After refilling with a new substrate or a new cartridge, it is possible to continue using the device. Preferably, the hookah device can be turned off by the consumer at any time, for example by turning off the power to the device.

In some examples, the user may activate one or more heating elements with an activation element, such as on a mouthpiece. The activating element may be in communication with the control electronics, for example by wireless communication, and may provide a signal to the control electronics to activate the heating element from standby to full heat. Preferably, such manual activation is only possible while the user is puffing on the mouthpiece to prevent overheating or unnecessary heating of the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge.

In some examples, the mouthpiece includes a puff sensor that is wirelessly connected to an electronic control circuit, and when the user puffs on the mouthpiece, the heating elements are activated from standby to full heat.

The hookah device of the present invention may have any suitable airflow control. In one example, puffing by the user will create a suction effect resulting in low pressure within the device, which in turn will cause outside air to flow through the air inlet of the device into the air inlet and on to the aerosol generating element receiver. Air can then flow through the aerosol-forming substrate or cartridge containing the substrate into the receptacle to transfer the aerosol through the aerosol outlet of the receptacle. The aerosol can then flow into the first air acceleration inlet of said chamber (unless the outlet of the aerosol generating element simultaneously serves as an air acceleration inlet of said chamber). When air flows through the inlet of said chamber, air is accelerated. Accelerated air exits said inlet through a second opening to enter the main chamber of said chamber where the air is decelerated. The retardation in said main chamber allows for improved nucleation, resulting in an improvement in the visible aerosol in the chamber. Aerosolized air may then exit the chamber and flow through the main shaft (unless that main shaft is the main chamber of said chamber) into the liquid within the bulb. The bubble aerosol will then exit the liquid into the headspace above the liquid in the flask, exit through said headspace outlet, and flow through the hose and mouthpiece for delivery to the consumer. The flow of outside air and the flow of aerosol inside the hookah device can be created under the action of the puff carried out by the user.

Preferably, the assembly of all the main parts of the hookah device according to the present invention ensures the tight functioning of the device. Sealed operation must ensure proper airflow control. Sealed operation may be achieved in any suitable manner. For example, seals such as O-rings and washers may be used to provide a tight seal.

O-rings and sealing washers or other sealing elements may be made from any suitable material or materials. For example, the seals may contain one or more of graphene compounds and silicon compounds. Preferably, said materials are approved for use in articles for human consumption by the US Food and Drug Administration.

The main parts, such as the chamber, the main shaft extending from the chamber, the outer casing of the receiver and the bulb, can be made of any suitable material or materials. For example, these parts can be independently made from glass, glass-based compounds, polysulfone (PSU), polyethersulfone (PES), or polyphenylsulfone (PPSU). Preferably, said parts are made from materials suitable for use in standard dishwashers.

In some examples, the mouthpiece of the present invention includes a male/female quick connector for connection to a hose assembly.

An electronic hookah device with IR heating can work as follows. A cartridge filled with an aerosol-forming substrate can be heated with IR radiation. To this end, the aerosol-generating element directs IR radiation onto the aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol generating element may be configured such that the temperature provided is sufficient to generate the aerosol without combusting or burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The user may draw air from the electric hookah device, whereby the air may enter through the air inlet, pass through the cooling element, pass along the cartridge, on to the underside of the cartridge, and then to the underside of the receptacle. It is possible to accelerate the generated aerosol during passage through the accelerating element. Before or during acceleration, it is possible to cool the generated aerosol with a cooling element to enhance condensation in the aerosol. The aerosol may undergo a pressure change upon entering the chamber and expand within the chamber, which may delay the aerosol before passing through the main shaft or stem tube that is partially submerged in water in the lower volume of the flask. The generated aerosol passes through the water and expands in the top space of the flask before being discharged via a hose.

In one or more embodiments of the method, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises hookah molasses.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium for long-term data storage is provided, comprising software for performing the method described above.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a controller capable of implementing the method described above. In some embodiments, the implementation of the specified controller contains software for performing the above described method. In some embodiments, the software is provided as part of the controller on the above-described computer-readable storage medium for non-volatile data storage.

All scientific and technical terms used in this document have the meanings commonly used in the art, unless otherwise indicated. The definitions provided in this document are intended to facilitate understanding of certain terms commonly used in this document.

The features described in relation to one aspect can be equally applied to other aspects of the present invention.

The invention will now be described solely by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

in FIG. 1 shows a hookah device containing an aerosol generating element of the present invention; in FIG. 2 shows an aerosol generating element of the present invention according to one embodiment;

in FIG. 3A and 3B show aerosol generating elements of the present invention according to another embodiment;

in FIG. 4A shows an aerosol generating element of the present invention according to another embodiment;

On FIG. 4B shows an aerosol generating element of the present invention according to another embodiment;

in FIG. 5A shows a hookah device of the present invention according to one embodiment, comprising an aerosol generating element of the present invention;

in FIG. 5B shows a control unit for use with an aerosol generating element of the present invention; and

in FIG. 6 shows the IR spectrum of glycerin.

Hookah device 100 includes an aerosol generating element 10 configured to accommodate an aerosol generating substrate 20 (not shown). The aerosol-generating element 10 may heat the aerosol-generating substrate 20, for example, by means of IR radiation, as described below with respect to FIG. 2 to generate an aerosol. In use, the generated aerosol flows through the aerosol shaft. The aerosol shaft may be provided as part of the stem tube 34. The aerosol shaft comprises a proximal end portion defining a proximal opening 42 positioned to receive airflow from the aerosol generating element 10 and a distal end portion defining a distal opening 44 located in the interior of the bulb. 46.

The stem tube 34 is in fluid communication with the bulb 46. Between the aerosol generating element 10 and the interior of the bulb 46, an air flow channel is formed. In particular, the aerosol generating element 10 is in fluid communication with the bulb 46 via a stem tube 34 at least partially defining said air flow channel. The inner region of the flask 46 contains the upper volume 48 for the headspace of the liquid and the lower volume 50 for the liquid. Hose 52 is in fluid communication with upper volume 48 through headspace outlet 54 on the side of bulb 46 above the liquid fill level. The mouthpiece 56 is connected to the hose 52 for the user of the device 100.

The generated aerosol can flow through the aerosol generating element 10 and the airflow channel through the stem tube 34 into the lower volume 49. The aerosol can pass through the liquid in the lower volume 49 and rise into the upper volume 48. User puffs on the mouthpiece 56 of the hose 52 allows the aerosol to be drawn into the upper volume 48 and further through the free space outlet 54 into the hose 20 for inhalation. In particular, negative pressure at mouthpiece 56 can be converted to negative pressure at headspace outlet 54, creating an airflow through aerosol generating element 10 and stem tube 34.

On FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of an aerosol generating element 10 of the present invention as part of the hookah device 100 of FIG. 1. The aerosol generating element 10 includes a photonic device 14 configured to generate and emit an IR beam 16. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the IR beam 16 is generated by an IR laser diode emitting radiation at a wavelength of 1300 nanometers to 2000 nanometers with a power of 1 watt to 20 watts. The aerosol-generating element 10 further comprises a receiver 18 for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate 20. The aerosol-generating element 10 is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate 20 by directing an IR beam 16 from the photonic device 14 onto the aerosol-forming substrate 20 disposed in the receiver 18. Optical element 22 is located in the path of IR beam 16 between photonic device 14 and receiver 18. Optical element 22 is configured to manipulate IR beam 16. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, optical element 22 includes a curved mirror for manipulating infrared beam 16 by reflecting beam 16 so that beam 16 changes direction. Preferably, the radius of the curved mirror is not constant and can be manipulated dynamically by, for example, water or air pressure.

The optical element 22 is mounted in the aerosol generating element 10 by means of an optical holder 24. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the IR beam 16 comprises an incident IR beam propagating from the photonic device 14 in the direction of the curved mirror and a reflected IR beam propagating from the curved mirror to the receiver 18. The curved mirror reflects the IR beam 16 by changing direction. beam to a new direction that forms an angle of approximately 90 degrees with the original beam direction. Thus, the angle between the incident IR beam and the reflected IR beam is approximately 90 degrees. However, if necessary, it is possible to adjust the angle of reflection to other values.

The optical holder 24 may be movable to adjust the angle of reflection to different values. It is possible to dynamically manipulate the location on the aerosol-forming substrate 20 where the IR beam 16 is directed using a movable optical holder 24. For example, it is possible to manipulate the angle of rotation of a curved mirror with respect to the incident IR beam using a movable optical holder 24 may contain a microstructured stepper motor assembly. In this way, selective heating of discrete regions of the aerosol-forming substrate 20 is enabled. In turn, selective heating enables sequential heating of different regions of the aerosol-forming substrate 20.

The embodiment of FIG. 2 further comprises a window 26 located at a location between the optical element 22 and the receiver 18 and is substantially transparent with respect to the IR beam 16 . The reflected IR beam 16 is transmitted to the receiver 18 through the window 26. The window 26 prevents the accumulation of residues on the surface of the laser diode and on the curved mirror.

On FIG. 2 further shows several details of a working example of the aerosol generating element 10 in the hookah device 12.

In order to allow air flow into the device, the receiver 18 includes at least one air inlet 28 . Aerosol generating substrate 20 may be placed in receptacle 18. Aerosol generating substrate 20 may be provided as part of an aerosol generating article within capsule 30. In some embodiments, capsule lid 30 may be opened or removed prior to heating. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment, the capsule 30 is placed up to 5 centimeters away from the IR laser diode. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment, capsule 30 does not have a lid. This makes it possible to prevent or at least reduce the loss of energy due to absorption by the material at the interface. It also provides the ability to help maximize direct exposure to the aerosol-forming substrate 20.

Upon absorption of the IR beam 16, the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate 20 rises until it reaches a temperature at which steam is generated and an aerosol is formed in the receiver 18. The underside of the capsule 30 is provided with an airflow outlet, such as one or more holes 32 to allow air to flow through capsule 30.

In general, air enters the receptacle 18 through the air inlet 28, passes through the aerosol-forming substrate 20, and exits the capsule 30 through openings 32 located on the underside of the capsule 30. The generated aerosol then passes through the stem tube 34 into the water and accumulates in the free space above the liquid in the flask (not shown in Fig. 2). The aerosol then passes through the headspace outlet through a hose to a mouthpiece (items not shown in FIG. 1) where the aerosol can be inhaled by the user.

On fig. 3A and 3B show other embodiments of parts of an aerosol generating element 10 of the present invention. On FIG. 3A and 3B the receiver is not shown. Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 2, the optical element 22 in the embodiment of FIG. 3A and 3B contain a convex lens. As can be seen from FIG. 3A and 3B, the convex lens of the optical element 22 manipulates the IR beam 16 so as to narrow it after passing through the optical element 22. Narrowing and hence focusing the IR beam 16 increases the energy density of the IR beam 16. The focused beam allows certain areas of the aerosol-forming substrate 20 to be rapidly consumed.

In addition, the optical element 22 includes a movable optical holder 24 for dynamically manipulating the path of the IR beam 16 . This is visually shown in the various orientations of the axis of the convex lens of the optical element 22 in FIG. 3A and 3B. Thus, in FIG. 3A and 3B show two of several different optical element configurations that can be achieved by adjusting the movable optical holder 24. Movement of the movable optical holder 24 can be realized using stepper motors. As can be seen from FIG. 3A and 3B, manipulation of the path of the focused IR beam 16 is accomplished by moving the optical holder 24. By manipulating the path of the focused IR beam 16, it is possible to manipulate exactly where the IR beam 16 will strike the aerosol-forming substrate 20. As a result, selective irradiation of the aerosol-forming substrate 20. Thus, selective irradiation of the aerosol-forming substrate 20 is possible. The speed at which the beam path is manipulated can be set by either the manufacturer or the user according to their own preferences. This configuration can be especially useful for a hookah system with on-demand puffs.

On FIG. 4A shows another embodiment of parts of an aerosol generating element 10 of the present invention. As in the previous case, the receiver in FIG. 4A is not shown. The aerosol-forming substrate 20 is provided in a capsule 30 with an open lid. Unlike the previously described embodiments, in the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the optical element 22 includes a concave lens. As can be seen from FIG. 4A, the concave lens of the optical element 22 manipulates the IR beam 16 in such a way as to expand the IR beam 16 after passing through the optical element 22. This configuration is especially useful for maintaining the substrate at the optimum temperature for long periods of time when no puffs are made. such as preheat periods or between puffs.

The aerosol generating element 10 in the embodiment of FIG. 4A also contains additional electrical heating means. Said additional electrical heating means include resistive heating means 36 . In this embodiment, the IR beam 16 is conceived as a consumable means, i.e., aerosol formation occurs essentially only at the point where the IR beam 16 irradiates the aerosol-forming substrate 20. The resistive heating means 36 maintains the substrate at a constant temperature, less than the temperature evaporation of the aerosol-forming substrate. The IR heating means provides the additional energy needed to bring one or more compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate 20 to a vaporization temperature or higher temperature to generate an aerosol.

On FIG. 4B shows another embodiment of parts of an aerosol generating element 10 of the present invention. As in the previous case, the receiver in FIG. 4B is not shown. The embodiment of FIG. 4B is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4A. The focused IR beam 16 is conceived as a consumable means, and aerosol generation occurs essentially only at a separate area of the aerosol-forming substrate 20, where the focused IR beam 16 irradiates the aerosol-forming substrate 20.

The embodiment of FIG. 4B differs from the embodiment of FIG. 4A in that the optical element 22 of FIG. 4B contains a convex lens instead of a concave lens.

The optical element 22 of FIG. 4B includes a movable optical holder 24 for dynamically manipulating the path of the IR beam 16 . This configuration is similar to that of the optical element 22 and the movable optical holder 24 in the embodiment of FIG. 3A and 3B.

In this way, it is possible to irradiate the aerosol-forming substrate 20 with the IR beam 16 in a sequential manner.

On FIG. 5A and 5B show a control unit 38 for use with an aerosol generating element 10 of the present invention. The control unit 38 enables the maximum preservation of the ritual in the non-charcoal hookah device 12 of the present invention.

On FIG. 5A shows in side view the control unit 38 located on the upper side of the aerosol generating element 10. In addition, the stem tube 34 of the hookah device 12 is shown. FIG. 5B shows a top view of a control unit 38 including a user interface 40. The user interface 40 includes a display. The display visualizes the heated areas of the aerosol-forming substrate by means of a contour map. In addition, the display can show which portions of the aerosol-forming substrate 20 have already been consumed. The display also has a user input feature in the form of a touch screen. Accordingly, when using the control unit 38, for example with embodiments in which the aerosol generating element 10 comprises means for manipulating the IR beam 16, for example with the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A and 3B, the user is able to enter an indication of which area of the aerosol-forming substrate 20 is to be heated. For example, the user can touch or press and hold an area on the touch screen display to control the location to which the IR beam 16 is directed. As a result of this action, the stepper motors of the movable optical holder 24 actively direct the IR beam 16 to a designated point on the aerosol generator. substrate 20.

A typical substrate used with hookah devices, such as Al-Fakher double apple molasses, may have a composition containing, for example, 15 to 30 percent tobacco, 45 to 55 percent glycerol, and 15 to 30 percent sugar. As can be seen in the IR spectrum of glycerol shown in FIG. 6 (taken from Xu, M., Wang, X., Jin, B. and Ren, H. Micromachines 2014, 6(2), 186-195), glycerol has strong absorption bands ranging from 1300 to 2000 nanometers. Accordingly, a suitable IR emitter for use with the hookah device of the present invention may be, for example, a laser diode capable of emitting light at a wavelength of 1300 to 2000 nanometers.

In some embodiments, to ensure proper use of the hookah device, the IR laser diode must be able to preheat the exposed portion of the substrate from room temperature to a target temperature of approximately 200 degrees Celsius in no more than approximately 4 minutes. After this pre-heating step, continuous evaporation over a typical usage period of about 40 minutes should be facilitated by the heating power of the IR emitter.

Assuming that approximately one third of the entire substrate material, which is the material on the surface of the substrate, is exposed to and heated by IR radiation, it can be concluded that the laser IR diode should provide a preheating power of 7 to 20 watts.

After reaching the target temperature of 200 degrees Celsius, the hookah is typically used for approximately 40 minutes and the operating temperature must be kept constant during this period of use at the target temperature. During this period of use, a total of 2.8 grams of molasses substrate evaporates in total. With the above Al-Fakher double apple molasses formulation, such evaporation would require a continuous reduced power of 1 to 3 watts.

In this example, the power density requirement for preheating Al-Fakher double apple molasses for no more than 4 minutes to a target temperature of 200 degrees Celsius is approximately 1 to 1.5 watts per square centimeter. During use of the hookah device, the power density of the IR laser diode can be reduced to approximately 0.3-0.7 watts per square centimeter.

Claims (30)

1. An aerosol generating element for generating an aerosol in a hookah device, comprising: - a receiver for placing an aerosol-forming substrate; and - a photonic device configured to generate a beam of infrared radiation; and said aerosol-generating element is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate by directing an IR beam onto the aerosol-forming substrate. 2. The aerosol-generating element of claim 1, wherein the wavelength of the IR beam corresponds to a wavelength at which at least a component of the aerosol-forming substrate absorbs IR radiation. 3. An aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wavelength range of the IR beam is from 800 nanometers to 2300 nanometers, preferably from 1300 nanometers to 2000 nanometers. 4. An aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the IR beam diameter is in the range of 1 millimeter to 110 millimeters, preferably 2 millimeters to 100 millimeters, and more preferably 5 millimeters to 80 millimeters. 5. An aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power of the IR beam is in the range of 0.1 Watt to 30 Watt, preferably 0.5 Watt to 25 Watt, more preferably 1 Watt to 20 Watt, and even more preferably 1 watt to 3 watts. 6. An aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy density of the IR beam can be in the range of 0.010 watts per square centimeter to 30 watts per square centimeter, preferably 0.050 watts per square centimeter to 6 watts per square centimeter, and more preferably from 0.100 watts per square centimeter to 3 watts per square centimeter. 7. An aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the photonic device comprises an IR laser diode. 8. Aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an optical element located between the photonic device and the receiver and configured to manipulate the infrared radiation beam. 9. An aerosol generating element according to claim 8, wherein the optical element is located on a movable optical holder for dynamic manipulation of the IR beam. 10. Aerosol generating element according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising a window located between the photonic device and the receiver and being essentially transparent to the infrared radiation beam. 11. An aerosol generating element according to claim 10, wherein the aerosol generating element comprises an optical element, and wherein said window is located at a location between the optical element and the receiver. 12. An aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the IR beam comprises an incident IR beam propagating from the photonic device to the optical element and a reflected IR beam propagating from the optical element to the receiver, and between the incident IR beam and the reflected IR beam have an angle, preferably approximately 90 degrees, preferably said optical element comprises a curved mirror for reflecting the IR beam, preferably said curved mirror can be dynamically manipulated. 13. Generating aerosol element according to any one of paragraphs. 8-12, in which the optical element contains one or both of: concave lens to expand the IR beam towards the receiver and convex lens to narrow the IR beam towards the receiver. 14. An aerosol-generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising electrical heating means configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate disposed in the receptacle, preferably said electrical heating means being one or more of a resistive heating means and an induction heating means. 15. An aerosol generating element according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control unit for selecting by the user a specific area of the receiver to be heated. 16. A hookah device containing an aerosol-generating element according to one of the previous paragraphs. 17. An aerosol generating system comprising a hookah device according to claim 16 and an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein said aerosol-generating substrate is configured to be placed in the receiver of the aerosol-generating element of the hookah device, and wherein said aerosol-generating substrate is configured to be heated by an aerosol-generating element of the hookah device. 18. The aerosol generating system of claim 17, comprising a cartridge comprising an outer shell enclosing the aerosol-forming substrate. 19. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the aerosol-generating substrate comprises hookah molasses. 20. A method for the formation of an aerosol in a hookah device, including: (a) generating a beam of infrared radiation by means of a photonic device, (b) directing a beam of infrared radiation from the photonic device onto an aerosol-forming substrate placed in the receiver of the hookah device, and (c) heating the aerosol-forming substrate placed in the receiver of the hookah device with an infrared beam.

Images