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WO2023161099A1 - Dispositif de génération de vapeur à régulation d'écoulement de liquide - Google Patents

Dispositif de génération de vapeur à régulation d'écoulement de liquide Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023161099A1
WO2023161099A1 PCT/EP2023/053756 EP2023053756W WO2023161099A1 WO 2023161099 A1 WO2023161099 A1 WO 2023161099A1 EP 2023053756 W EP2023053756 W EP 2023053756W WO 2023161099 A1 WO2023161099 A1 WO 2023161099A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vapour generating
cartridge
moveable member
chamber
generating device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/EP2023/053756
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Layth Sliman BOUCHUIGUIR
Pier Paolo MONTICONE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
JT International SA
Original Assignee
JT International SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by JT International SA filed Critical JT International SA
Publication of WO2023161099A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023161099A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/48—Fluid transfer means, e.g. pumps
    • A24F40/485—Valves; Apertures
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/10—Devices using liquid inhalable precursors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/48—Fluid transfer means, e.g. pumps
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M11/00—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes
    • A61M11/006—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by applying mechanical pressure to the liquid to be sprayed or atomised
    • A61M11/008—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by applying mechanical pressure to the liquid to be sprayed or atomised by squeezing, e.g. using a flexible bottle or a bulb
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M11/00—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes
    • A61M11/04—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by the vapour pressure of the liquid to be sprayed or atomised
    • A61M11/041—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by the vapour pressure of the liquid to be sprayed or atomised using heaters
    • A61M11/042—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by the vapour pressure of the liquid to be sprayed or atomised using heaters electrical

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates generally to a vapour generating device, and more particularly to a vapour generating device configured to heat a vapour generating liquid to generate a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the device.
  • vapour generating device refers to a handheld electronic device that is intended to simulate the feeling or experience of smoking tobacco in a traditional cigarette.
  • Electronic cigarettes work by causing a vapour generating liquid to be heated to generate a vapour that cools and condenses to form an aerosol which is then inhaled by the user.
  • the vapour generating liquid is held in a liquid store of a cartridge receivable in the vapour generating device.
  • a shortcoming of such arrangements is an inconsistent flow rate of vapour generating liquid from the liquid store to a vapour generating unit where vapour is generated. Accordingly, too much or too little vapour may be generated and/or the temperature of the generated vapour may be too high or too low.
  • the quality and/or consistency of the vapour (and resulting aerosol) that is generated by the vapour generating unit, when a user inhales or puffs on the vapour generating device, may therefore be unsatisfactory. For example, a user may experience ‘dry puffs’ if the vapour generating unit has not received sufficient vapour generating liquid.
  • a vapour generating device comprising: a housing defining a chamber for receiving a cartridge, the cartridge comprising a liquid store for holding a vapour generating liquid and a valve openable to release the vapour generating liquid from the liquid store to a vapour generating unit comprising a heater for generation of vapour; a force applicator for applying a force on the cartridge in the chamber, wherein the force applicator is configured to control the amount of force applied on the cartridge in the chamber to control the flow rate of vapour generating liquid through the valve to the vapour generating unit.
  • the vapour generating device may include a controller.
  • the controller may be configured to control the operation of the force applicator to control the amount of force applied on the cartridge in the chamber to thereby control the flow rate of vapour generating liquid through the valve to the vapour generating unit.
  • vapour generating unit By controlling, by the controller and force applicator, the amount of force applied on the cartridge in the chamber to control the flow rate of vapour generating liquid through the valve to the vapour generating unit, a consistent and optimised flow rate results.
  • the vapour generating unit therefore receives the correct amount of vapour generating liquid at all times. This allows the vapour generating unit to generate an aerosol with satisfactory characteristics at all times during use of the vapour generating device, thereby providing an improved user experience. Consequently, a user of the vapour generating device will not experience ‘dry puffs’.
  • a consistent and optimised flow rate also reduces the possibility of leakage of the vapour generating liquid. Because of a consistent and optimised flow rate, there is more design flexibility in terms of the selection of different types of heaters. The energy consumption, and hence energy efficiency, of the vapour generating device may also be improved.
  • the controller may be configured to control the operation of the force applicator to apply different amounts of force on the cartridge to provide different flow rates of liquid through the valve.
  • a particular flow rate may be selectable by a user to alter the amount of aerosol generated for inhalation, e.g., by selecting an option through a user interface.
  • the controller may be configured to control the force applicator to apply a force on the cartridge only when the vapour generating device is in use by a user inhaling aerosol. Accordingly, when the vapour generating device is not in use a force is not applied on the cartridge reducing the possibility of leakage of the vapour generating liquid.
  • the force applicator comprises a moveable member, wherein the moveable member is configured to be moveable in the chamber to control the amount of force applied on the cartridge in the chamber.
  • the moveable member may be configured to be moveable in the chamber in response to a magnetic field generated in the chamber.
  • the moveable member comprises a ferromagnetic material, wherein in use at least a portion of the cartridge is disposed between the moveable member and a solenoid, wherein activation of the solenoid by the controller to generate a magnetic field causes the moveable member to move in the chamber towards the solenoid thereby applying a force on the cartridge, wherein activation of the solenoid by the controller to generate an opposite magnetic field causes the moveable member to move in the chamber away from the solenoid so that the moveable member no longer applies a force on the cartridge.
  • the force applicator may be configured such that the amount of force applied on the cartridge by the moveable member is controllable by varying, e.g., by the controller, the output power of the solenoid.
  • the moveable member may be configured to be moveable in the chamber by being driven by an electric motor.
  • the electric motor is operable to move the moveable member in the chamber to apply a force on the cartridge, and wherein the electric motor is also operable to move the moveable member in the chamber so that the moveable member no longer applies a force on the cartridge.
  • the force applicator may be configured such that the amount of force applied on the cartridge by the moveable member is controllable by varying, e.g., by the controller, the output power of the electric motor.
  • the electric motor may be an electric rotary motor.
  • the electric rotary motor may comprise a rack and pinion mechanism to drive the moveable member.
  • the electric rotary motor may comprise a lead screw mechanism to drive the moveable member.
  • the controller may be configured to determine the position of the moveable member in the chamber.
  • the controller may be configured to estimate the amount of vapour generating liquid in the liquid store based on the position of the moveable member in the chamber when a force is being applied on the cartridge, the estimate being displayable on a user interface.
  • the amount of vapour generating liquid remaining in the liquid store can thus readily be determined by the controller, and displayed to a user, reducing the likelihood that the vapour generating device will be used without sufficient vapour generating liquid in the liquid store.
  • the display of this information on a user interface is convenient for a user.
  • the controller may be configured to determine the position of the moveable member in the chamber based on the inductive coupling between the solenoid and the moveable member.
  • the controller may be configured to determine the position of the moveable member in the chamber based on the distance the electric motor has caused the moveable member to travel relative to a known starting position.
  • the valve is configured to open to release vapour generating liquid from the liquid store when the applied force on the cartridge increases the pressure of the vapour generating liquid to a threshold amount, and wherein the valve is configured to close to prevent the flow of vapour generating liquid from the liquid store when the pressure of the vapour generating liquid is below the threshold amount
  • the vapour generating unit may be comprised in the vapour generating device.
  • the vapour generating unit may be comprised in the cartridge.
  • the cartridge may be flexible.
  • the cartridge may comprise plastics.
  • a method for generating a vapour comprising: applying a force on a cartridge by a force applicator, the cartridge being received in a chamber defined in a housing of a vapour generating device including a controller; and controlling, by the controller, the amount of force applied by the force applicator on the cartridge in the chamber to control the flow rate of vapour generating liquid held in a liquid store of the cartridge through a valve of the cartridge to a vapour generating unit comprising a heater for generation of vapour.
  • Figure 1 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a first vapour generating device
  • Figure 2a is a diagrammatic part cross-sectional view of a second vapour generating device in a first condition
  • Figure 2b is a diagrammatic part cross-sectional view of the second vapour generating device of Figure 2a in a second condition
  • Figure 3a is a diagrammatic part cross-sectional view of a third vapour generating device in a first condition
  • Figure 3b is a diagrammatic part cross-sectional view of the third vapour generating device of Figure 3a in a second condition
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of a part of the third vapour generating device of Figures 3a and 3b;
  • Figure 5a is a diagrammatic part cross-sectional view of a fourth vapour generating device in a first condition
  • Figure 5b is a diagrammatic part cross-sectional view of the fourth vapour generating device of Figure 5a in a second condition.
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of a part of the fourth vapour generating device of Figures 5a and 5b.
  • the vapour generating device 10 may be elongate and have a substantially cylindrical shape which resembles a cigarette or cigar. Other shapes are, however, entirely within the scope of the present disclosure.
  • vapour generating device 10 refers to a handheld electronic device that is intended to simulate the feeling or experience of smoking tobacco in a traditional cigarette.
  • Electronic cigarettes work by causing a vapour generating liquid to be heated to generate a vapour that cools and condenses to form an aerosol which is then inhaled by the user. Accordingly, using e-cigarettes is also sometimes referred to as “vaping”. Vapour generating liquid is sometimes referred to as e-liquid.
  • vapour is a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature, which means that the vapour can be condensed to a liquid by increasing its pressure without reducing the temperature
  • aerosol is a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets, in air or another gas.
  • the vapour generating liquid may comprise polyhydric alcohols and mixtures thereof such as glycerine or propylene glycol.
  • the vapour generating liquid may contain nicotine.
  • the vapour generating liquid may also comprise flavourings such as e.g., tobacco, menthol or fruit flavour.
  • the vapour generating device 10 includes a controller 36.
  • the vapour generating device 10 may include a user interface 38 for controlling the operation of the vapour generating device 10 via the controller 36 and/or for displaying information.
  • the user interface 38 may be comprised in a separate device such as a mobile device.
  • the controller 36 includes electronic circuitry 37.
  • the vapour generating device 10 includes a power source 39, such as a battery.
  • the vapour generating device 10 comprises a housing 12.
  • the housing 12 defines a chamber 14 for receiving a cartridge 16 intended for use with the vapour generating device 10.
  • the cartridge 16 comprises a liquid store 17 for holding, i.e., containing, a vapour generating liquid.
  • the cartridge 16 may be releasably connectable to the vapour generating device 10 by a releasable connection.
  • the releasable connection can, for example, be a snap-fit connection or alternatively, a magnetic connection, a threaded connection or a bayonet connection.
  • the cartridge 16 can be disconnected from the vapour generating device 10 and a replacement cartridge 16 can then be connected in its place, to allow further use of the vapour generating device 10.
  • the cartridge 16 may be re-filled with vapour generating liquid so that the cartridge can be re-used.
  • the cartridge 16 may be disposable.
  • the cartridge 16 may be flexible or at least a portion of the cartridge 16 may be flexible.
  • the cartridge 16 may comprise plastics.
  • the cartridge 16 may otherwise be referred to as a pod or a capsule.
  • a mouthpiece (not shown) may be installed on the vapour generating device 10 at an air outlet 19.
  • the air outlet 19 may instead be shaped to provide a mouthpiece.
  • a proximal end of the cartridge 16 may constitute a mouthpiece end configured for being introduced directly into a user’s mouth.
  • the mouthpiece provides the ability for a user to easily inhale aerosol generated by the vapour generating device 10.
  • the vapour generating device 10 comprises a vapour generating unit 20 comprising a heater 21, i.e., a heating element, to produce vapour from the vapour generating liquid held, i.e. contained, in the liquid store 17 of a cartridge 16.
  • the vapour generating unit 20 is for vaporizing the vapour generating liquid.
  • the heater 21 comprises a resistive heater having a resistive heating element.
  • the power source 39 is connectable to the resistive heater. In operation, upon activating the vapour generating device 10, the power source 39 electrically heats the resistive heater, which then heats the vapour generating liquid, resulting in vaporization of the vapour generating liquid.
  • the heater 21 comprises an inductively heatable susceptor.
  • the vapour generating device 10 comprises an electromagnetic field generator, e.g., an induction coil, arranged to be energised by the power source 39 to generate an alternating electromagnetic field. With the application of an alternating electromagnetic field in its vicinity, the inductively heatable susceptor generates heat due to eddy currents and magnetic hysteresis losses resulting in a conversion of energy from electromagnetic to heat. This arrangement provides a particularly convenient way to heat and vaporize the vapour generating liquid using induction heating.
  • the induction coil may comprise a Litz wire or a Litz cable. It will, however, be understood that other materials could be used.
  • the inductively heatable susceptor comprises an electrically conductive material, and may comprise one or more, but not limited to, of aluminium, iron, nickel, mild steel, stainless steel, low carbon stainless steel, copper, and alloys thereof, e.g., Nickel Chromium or Nickel Copper.
  • the electromagnetic field generator may be arranged to operate in use with a fluctuating electromagnetic field having a magnetic flux density of between approximately 20mT and approximately 2.0T at the point of highest concentration.
  • the heater 21 may comprise a fluid permeable heater.
  • the term “fluid permeable” heater means a heater 21 that allows a liquid or gas to permeate through it.
  • the fluid permeable heater may include a plurality of openings or perforations or may have an open-porous structure which allows fluid to permeate through it.
  • the fluid permeable heater allows the vapour generating liquid or the resulting vapour generated by heating the vapour generating liquid to permeate through it.
  • the cartridge 16 is configured as a “cartomizer”, which means an integrated component formed from a liquid store 17 and a vapour generating unit 20.
  • the cartridge 16 comprises the vapour generating unit 20, rather than the vapour generating device 10 comprising the vapour generating unit 20.
  • the vapour generating unit 20 is comprised in the cartridge 16. Electrical connectors are provided to establish an electrical connection between the vapour generating unit 20 of the cartridge 16 and the power source 39 of the vapour generating device 10.
  • the cartridge 16 comprises a valve 18 openable to release the vapour generating liquid from the liquid store 17 to the vapour generating unit 20 for heating by the heater 21 to generate vapour.
  • the valve 18 ensures that the vapour generating liquid is reliably contained in the cartridge 16 and that unwanted leakage of the vapour generating liquid is prevented.
  • the valve 18 may also allow the cartridge 16 to be refilled with vapour generating liquid so that the cartridge 16 can be re-used.
  • the valve 18 is configured to open to release vapour generating liquid from the liquid store 17 when the applied force on the cartridge 16 increases the pressure of the vapour generating liquid to a threshold amount.
  • the valve 18 is also configured to close to prevent the flow of liquid from the liquid store 17 when the pressure of the vapour generating liquid is below the threshold amount.
  • the vapour generating device 10 further comprises a force applicator 22 for applying a force on the cartridge 16 in the chamber 14.
  • the force applicator 22 is configured to apply a force on an outer surface of the cartridge 16.
  • the force applicator 22 may be configured to compress the cartridge 16, for instance, in examples wherein the cartridge 16 is flexible or a portion of the cartridge 16 is flexible.
  • the controller 36 is configured to control the operation of the force applicator 22 to control the amount of force applied on the cartridge 16 in the chamber 14 to control the flow rate of vapour generating liquid through the valve 18 to the vapour generating unit 20.
  • the vapour generating unit 20 By controlling, by the controller 36 and the force applicator 22, the amount of force applied on the cartridge 16 in the chamber 14 to control the flow rate of vapour generating liquid through the valve 18 to the vapour generating unit 20, a consistent and optimised flow rate results.
  • the vapour generating unit 20 therefore receives the correct amount of vapour generating liquid, i.e., the correct dosage, at all times. This allows the vapour generating unit 20 to generate an aerosol with satisfactory characteristics at all times during use of the vapour generating device 10, thereby providing an improved user experience, for example, an improved sensorial performance. Consequently, a user of the vapour generating device 10 will not experience ‘dry puffs’.
  • a consistent and optimised flow rate also reduces the possibility of leakage of the vapour generating liquid. Because of a consistent and optimised flow rate, there is more design flexibility in terms of the selection of different types of heaters 21. The energy consumption, and hence energy efficiency, of the vapour generating device 10 may also be improved.
  • the controller 36 is configured to control the operation of the force applicator 22 to apply different amounts of force on the cartridge 16 to provide different flow rates of liquid through the valve 18.
  • a particular flow rate may be selectable by a user to alter the amount of aerosol generated for inhalation, for instance, by selecting an option through the user interface 38.
  • the controller 36 is configured to control the force applicator 22 to apply a force on the cartridge 16 only when the vapour generating device 10 is in use by a user inhaling aerosol. Accordingly, when the vapour generating device 10 is not in use a force is not applied on the cartridge 16 reducing the possibility of leakage of the vapour generating liquid.
  • the vapour generating unit 20 comprises a liquid transfer element (not shown).
  • the liquid transfer element may be porous.
  • vapour generating liquid flowing through the valve 18 soaks, i.e., is absorbed, into the liquid transfer element.
  • the liquid transfer element is heated by the heater 21 of the vapour generating unit 20, producing a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol which may then be inhaled.
  • the heater 21 is in contact with the liquid transfer element.
  • the porous liquid transfer element may comprise a capillary material.
  • the capillary material may comprise a cotton wick.
  • the capillary material may comprise a porous ceramic material.
  • the vapour generating unit 20 defines a vaporization chamber 23, which may be substantially cylindrical.
  • the vaporization chamber 23 is aligned with, and fluidly connected to, a vapour outlet channel 25.
  • the vaporization chamber 23 thus provides a route which allows vapour generated by heating the vapour generating liquid to be transferred into the vapour outlet channel 25 where it cools and condenses to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user via the mouthpiece at the air outlet 19.
  • the vapour generated in the vaporization chamber 23 may cool and condense to form an aerosol as it flows along the vapour outlet channel 25, from the vaporization chamber 23 towards an end of the vapour outlet channel 25.
  • the liquid transfer element defines the vaporization chamber 23.
  • the vaporization of the vapour generating liquid may be facilitated by the addition of air from the surrounding environment through an air inlet or inlets (not shown).
  • the flow of air and/or vapour may be aided by negative pressure created by a user drawing air through the air outlet 19 using the mouthpiece.
  • the force applicator 22 comprises a moveable member 24.
  • the moveable member 24 is configured to be moveable in the chamber 14 to control the amount of force applied on the cartridge 16 in the chamber 14.
  • the moveable member 24 may be rigid.
  • the moveable member 24 may be a solid material.
  • the moveable member 24 may comprise a plate 27.
  • the plate 27 may comprise metal.
  • the plate 27 may comprise plastics.
  • the moveable member 24 may be otherwise referred to as a cartridge squeezer or a pod squeezer.
  • the controller 36 is configured to determine the position of the moveable member 24 in the chamber 14. In such examples, the controller 36 is configured to estimate the amount of vapour generating liquid in the liquid store 17 based on the position of the moveable member 24 in the chamber 14 when a force is being applied on the cartridge 16. The estimate may be display able on the user interface 38. The amount of vapour generating liquid remaining in the liquid store 17 can thus readily be determined by a user reducing the likelihood that the vapour generating device 10 will be used without sufficient vapour generating liquid in the liquid store 17. The display of this information on a user interface 38 is convenient for a user.
  • the controller 36 may also be configured to detect the initiation of use of the vapour generating device 10 in response to a user input, such as a button press to activate the vapour generating device 10, or in response to a detected airflow through the vapour generating device 10.
  • a user input such as a button press to activate the vapour generating device 10
  • an airflow through the vapour generating device 10 is indicative of a user inhalation or ‘puff.
  • the vapour generating device 10 may, for example, include a puff detector (not shown), such as an airflow sensor, to detect an airflow through the vapour generating device 10.
  • FIGS 2a, 3a and 5a illustrate respective second, third and fourth vapour generating devices 40, 42, 44 according to examples of the present disclosure in a first condition.
  • the second, third and fourth vapour generating devices 40, 42, 44 are similar to the first vapour generating device 10 described above and corresponding elements are designated using the same reference numerals.
  • the liquid store 17 of the cartridge 16 is full or almost full of vapour generating liquid.
  • Figures 2b, 3b and 5b illustrate the respective second, third and fourth vapour generating devices 40, 42, 44 in a second condition.
  • the cartridge 16 has been compressed by the moveable member 24 to release vapour generating liquid from the liquid store 17 through the valve 18 to the vapour generating unit 20. Accordingly, in the second condition the liquid store 17 of the cartridge 16 is almost empty.
  • the moveable member 24 is configured to be moveable in the chamber 14 in response to a magnetic field generated in the chamber 14.
  • the moveable member 24 comprises a ferromagnetic material. Accordingly, the moveable member 24 is ferromagnetic.
  • at least a portion of the cartridge 16 is disposed between the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 and a solenoid 26. Accordingly, the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 and the solenoid 26 are disposed on opposite sides of the at least a portion of the cartridge and face one another.
  • the solenoid 26 is powered by the power source 39.
  • the operation of the solenoid 26 is controlled by the controller 36.
  • activation of the solenoid 26 by the controller 36 to generate a magnetic field causes the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 to move in the chamber 14 towards the solenoid 26 thereby applying a force on the cartridge 16.
  • Activation of the solenoid 26 by the controller 36 to generate an opposite magnetic field causes the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 to move in the chamber 14 away from the solenoid 26 so that the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 no longer applies a force on the cartridge 16.
  • the solenoid 26 is activated by the controller 36 attracting the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 and compressing at least a portion of the cartridge 16 to release vapour generating liquid through the valve 18 to the vapour generating unit 20.
  • the pressure of the vapour generating liquid caused by the force on the cartridge 16 is large enough to open the valve 18.
  • the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 is pushed back, through the application of an opposite polarization to the solenoid 26, to a position whereby it is not applying any force on the cartridge 16. In this condition, the pressure of the vapour generating liquid is insufficient to open the valve 18, thus minimizing the possibility of leakage of vapour generating liquid.
  • the force applicator 22 may be configured such that the amount of force applied on the cartridge 16 by the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 is controllable by the controller 36 by varying the output power of the solenoid 26. Accordingly, the flow rate of the vapour generating liquid may be controlled by the controller 36 by varying the output power of the solenoid 26. The output power of the solenoid 26 may be controlled by varying, by the controller 36, the electric current from the power source 39 powering the solenoid 26.
  • the flow rate of the vapour generating liquid can be calculated based on operating parameters, such as the force required to open the valve 18, the force applied on the vapour generating liquid, and the open valve hydraulic resistance.
  • the chamber 14 comprises a wall 29, which may be a peripheral wall.
  • the wall 29 defines a guide for guiding the ferromagnetic moveable member 24.
  • the controller 36 is configured to determine the position of the moveable member 24 in the chamber 14 based on the inductive coupling between the solenoid 26 and the ferromagnetic moveable member 24.
  • the solenoid 26 can be used as a proximity sensor with respect to the ferromagnetic moveable member 24, for example, by controlling the voltage drop on the solenoid 26 and measuring the current passing through solenoid 26.
  • the position of the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 in the chamber 14 can thus be determined by the controller 36, and thus the amount of vapour generating liquid remaining in the liquid store 17 during vaping can be estimated by the controller 36.
  • the moveable member 24 is configured to be moveable in the chamber 14 by being driven by an electric motor 28.
  • the electric motor 28 is operable to move the moveable member 24 in the chamber 14 to apply a force on the cartridge 16.
  • the electric motor 28 is also operable to move the moveable member 24 in the chamber 14 so that the moveable member 24 no longer applies a force on the cartridge 16. Accordingly, when there is no vaping the electric motor 28 moves the moveable member 24 to a position in the chamber 14 where it is not applying a force on the cartridge 16. In this condition, the pressure of the vapour generating liquid is insufficient to open the valve 18, thus minimizing the possibility of leakage of vapour generating liquid.
  • the force applicator 22 may be configured such that the amount of force applied on the cartridge 16 by the moveable member 24 is controllable by varying, by the controller 36, the output power of the electric motor 28, for example, the motor torque. Accordingly, the flow rate of the vapour generating liquid may be controlled by varying, by the controller 36, the output power of the electric motor 28. Accordingly, the more force the electric motor 28 uses to achieve a turn the higher will be the flow rate of the vapour generating liquid.
  • the electric motor 28 is powered by the power source 39.
  • the operation of the electric motor 28 is controlled by the controller 36.
  • the controller 36 is configured to determine the position of the moveable member 24 in the chamber 14 based on the distance the electric motor 28 has caused the moveable member 24 to travel relative to a known starting position. For example, the position of the moveable member 24 in the chamber during vaping can be determined based on the turnover of the electric motor 28 (i.e., number of turns), for instance, counting steps for stepper motors or rotation from a motor encoder for dc-dc brushless motors. The position of the ferromagnetic moveable member 24 in the chamber can thus be determined by the controller 37, and thus the amount of vapour generating liquid remaining in the liquid store 17 during vaping can be estimated by the controller 36.
  • the electric motor 28 is an electric rotary motor 30 comprising a rack and pinion mechanism 32 to drive the moveable member 24.
  • the electric motor 28 is an electric rotary motor 30 comprising a lead screw mechanism 34 to drive the moveable member 24.
  • the electric rotary motor 30 is disposed directly below the cartridge 16.
  • the figures also illustrate a method for generating a vapour according to examples of the disclosure.
  • the method comprises applying a force by the force applicator 22 on a cartridge 16 received in the chamber 14 defined in the housing of the vapour generating device 10.
  • the method further comprises controlling, by the controller 36, the amount of force applied by the force applicator 22 on the cartridge 16 in the chamber 14 to control the flow rate of vapour generating liquid held in a liquid store 17 of the cartridge 16 through the valve 18 of the cartridge 16 to the vapour generating unit 20 comprising the heater 21 for generation of vapour.

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  • Thermotherapy And Cooling Therapy Devices (AREA)

Abstract

Un dispositif de génération de vapeur (10, 40, 42, 44) comprend un boîtier (12) et un dispositif de commande (36). Le boîtier (12) définit une chambre (14) destinée à recevoir une cartouche (16). La cartouche (16) comprend un réservoir de liquide (17) destiné à contenir un liquide de génération de vapeur. La cartouche (16) comprend en outre une soupape (18) pouvant être ouverte pour libérer le liquide de génération de vapeur du réservoir de liquide (17) vers une unité de génération de vapeur (20) comprenant un dispositif de chauffage (21) pour la génération de vapeur. Le dispositif de génération de vapeur (10, 40, 42, 44) comprend en outre un applicateur de force (22) pour appliquer une force sur la cartouche (16) dans la chambre (14). Le dispositif de commande (36) est conçu pour commander le fonctionnement de l'applicateur de force (22) pour réguler la quantité de force appliquée sur la cartouche (16) dans la chambre (14) pour réguler le débit de liquide de génération de vapeur dans la soupape (18) vers l'unité de génération de vapeur (20).
PCT/EP2023/053756 2022-02-23 2023-02-15 Dispositif de génération de vapeur à régulation d'écoulement de liquide Ceased WO2023161099A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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EP22158242 2022-02-23
EP22158242.2 2022-02-23

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WO2023161099A1 true WO2023161099A1 (fr) 2023-08-31

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4573940A1 (fr) * 2023-12-20 2025-06-25 JT International SA Cartouche de génération d'aérosol pour un dispositif de génération d'aérosol et dispositif de génération d'aérosol associé

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WO2016055653A1 (fr) * 2014-10-10 2016-04-14 Jt International Sa Substance un composant de distribution destiné à des dispositifs d'inhalation
US20180160735A1 (en) * 2015-06-02 2018-06-14 Fontem Holdings 1 B.V. Electronic smoking device
EP3909443A1 (fr) * 2020-08-07 2021-11-17 China Tobacco Yunnan Industrial Co., Ltd Appareil d'atomisation de liquide à entraînement électromagnétique
EP3954414A1 (fr) * 2019-04-09 2022-02-16 Japan Tobacco Inc. Dispositif d'alimentation en aérosol

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2016055653A1 (fr) * 2014-10-10 2016-04-14 Jt International Sa Substance un composant de distribution destiné à des dispositifs d'inhalation
US20180160735A1 (en) * 2015-06-02 2018-06-14 Fontem Holdings 1 B.V. Electronic smoking device
EP3954414A1 (fr) * 2019-04-09 2022-02-16 Japan Tobacco Inc. Dispositif d'alimentation en aérosol
EP3909443A1 (fr) * 2020-08-07 2021-11-17 China Tobacco Yunnan Industrial Co., Ltd Appareil d'atomisation de liquide à entraînement électromagnétique

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4573940A1 (fr) * 2023-12-20 2025-06-25 JT International SA Cartouche de génération d'aérosol pour un dispositif de génération d'aérosol et dispositif de génération d'aérosol associé

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