WO2025125799A1

WO2025125799A1 - Cartomizer and cartridge for aerosol provision system and aerosol provision system

Info

Publication number: WO2025125799A1
Application number: PCT/GB2024/053085
Authority: WO
Inventors: Weidong Gao; Xueping LIU; Deke XIE; Peng Li; Gonggao ZHAI
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2023-12-16
Filing date: 2024-12-12
Publication date: 2025-06-19
Anticipated expiration: 2026-06-16
Also published as: CN120154146A

Abstract

This invention discloses a cartomizer and a cartridge for an aerosol provision system and the aerosol provision system. The cartomizer internally comprises an airway that comprises, in sequence along the airflow path, a first airway segment, a transition airway segment, and a second airway segment. The first airway segment defines the airway's airflow inlet, and the second airway segment defines the airway's airflow outlet, with the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment deviating from the central axis of the second airway segment; inside the cartomizer, there is an atomization chamber housing the heating element, the second airway segment is located within this chamber and is a vertically extending airway segment along the length direction of the cartomizer. Through the design of a biased airway in the embodiment of this invention, more optional positions for the first airway segment are provided. This increases the flexibility in designing the position of cartomizer components and allows for a rational selection of the airway position to reduce the size of the base component. As a result, it decreases the volume of the cartomizer, achieving a compact design for not only the cartomizer but also the cartridge and the entire system.

Description

CARTOMIZER AND CARTRIDGE FOR AEROSOL PROVISION SYSTEM AND AEROSOL PROVISION SYSTEM

Technical Field

This invention is related to the field of aerosol provision, particularly relating to a cartomizer and a cartridge for an aerosol provision system and the aerosol provision system.

Background

The aerosol provision system refers to a system that internally accommodates aerosol-generating materials. It produces aerosol by heating, rather than burning, the aerosol-generating materials (such as tobacco), providing a system for users to puff.

Aerosol provision systems generally consist of a casing, a cartomizer set within the casing, a power source, and a controller. The cartomizer comprises an atomization chamber containing a heating element. The power source, under the control of the controller, supplies power to the heating element. The heating element is electrically heated to warm the aerosol-generating material inside the casing, resulting in the generation of aerosol.

The housing comprises an air inlet and an air outlet. The cartomizer within comprises an airway connecting the air inlet and the air outlet. During user puffing, airflow comprises entry through the air inlet, passage through the internal airway of the cartomizer, carrying away aerosol, and exit through the air outlet.

The cartomizer comprises a cartomizer frame defining the atomization chamber and a base component defining the bottom surface of the atomization chamber. The airflow enters the airway on the base component through the air inlet into the airway inside the atomization chamber. Typically, the airway on the base component shares a central axis with the airway inside the atomization chamber. This constrains the opening position of the airway on the base component, making it difficult to adjust flexibly according to needs.

Additionally, there are two electrode holes on the base component for the passage of two electrodes. Currently, the airway on the base component is generally opened with the geometric center of the base component as the focal point. This requires that the distance from the edge of each electrode hole to the geometric center be greater than the radius of the airway. As a result, this leads to the issue of a larger size for the cartomizer base component, subsequently contributing to a larger volume for the cartomizer.

Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new solution for the aerosol provision system to solve one or more of these technical issues.

Summary of Invention

The present invention is aimed at addressing at least one technical issue present in the existing technology. Therefore, this invention discloses a cartomizer and a cartridge for an aerosol provision system and the aerosol provision system to address at least one technical issue in the existing technology. Specifically, the disclosed solution aims to overcome challenges such as the difficulty in flexibly selecting the airway position on the base component of the cartomizer, and the voluminous nature of the base component due to the positional relationship between the airway and the electrode holes, making miniaturization challenging.

The first aspect of the embodiment of the present invention discloses a cartomizer for an aerosol provision system, the cartomizer internally comprises an airway that comprises sequentially connected a first airway segment, a transition airway segment, and a second airway segment along the airflow path; the first airway segment defines the airway's airflow inlet, and the second airway segment defines the airway's airflow outlet, with the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment deviating from the central axis of the second airway segment; inside the cartomizer, there is an atomization chamber housing the heating element, the second airway segment is located within this chamber and is a vertically extending airway segment along the length direction of the cartomizer.

Through the design of the transition airway segment, the present invention allows for the use of a vertical airway within the atomization chamber, eliminating the necessity for the first airway segment for air intake to be coaxially aligned with the airway inside the atomization chamber. In comparison to existing technology, this provides more possible positions for the deployment of the first airway segment. It enhances the flexibility in designing the position of cartomizer components, and with a rational selection of the airway position, it reduces the size of the base component. Consequently, it minimizes the volume of the cartomizer, achieving a compact design for the cartomizer. In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the cartomizer comprises a base component and two electrodes, with the base component having a top surface facing the atomization chamber and a bottom surface away from the chamber; the first airway segment and two electrode holes, through which the electrodes are inserted, penetrate the bottom and top surfaces of the base component; the electrodes cover part of the bottom surface of the base component, with the shortest distance from the geometric center of the bottom surface to the electrode holes being less than the radius of the inlet of the first airway segment. The design of the biased airway allows the first airway segment to be positioned without the necessity of aligning with the geometric center between the electrode holes on the bottom surface. This enables a reduction in the distance between the geometric center of the bottom surface and the electrode holes, thereby reducing the dimensions of the bottom surface. Consequently, it decreases the size of the cartomizer and facilitates a more compact design for the cartomizer, contributing to miniaturization.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the heating element is vertically oriented, and the second airway segment is parallel to the length direction of the heating element.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment is located on the side of the second airway segment that is away from the heating element.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the second airway segment passes through the central axis of the cartomizer.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the second airway segment and the cartomizer share the same central axis.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the central axis of the first airway segment does not coincide with the central axis of the cartomizer.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the central axis of the first airway segment is parallel to the central axis of the second airway segment.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the angle at which the transition airway segment deviates from the central axis of the second airway segment is greater than or equal to 45° but less than 90°.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the cross-sectional area of the inlet of the transition airway segment is larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the first airway segment.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the positive projection of the inlet of the transition airway segment in the first airway segment covers the outlet of the first airway segment.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the transition airway segment is larger than the cross-sectional area of the inlet of the second airway segment.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the positive projection of the outlet of the transition airway segment in the second airway segment completely overlaps the inlet of the second airway segment.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the cartomizer also comprises an airway assembly set within the atomization chamber; the transition airway segment and the first airway segment are formed on the base component, and the second airway segment is formed on the airway assembly; or, the first airway segment is formed on the base component, the second airway segment is formed on the airway assembly, and the transition airway segment is formed on both the base component and the airway assembly; or, the transition airway segment and the second airway segment are formed on the airway assembly, and the first airway segment is formed on the base component.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the airway assembly comprises an airway component and the heating element; the airway component is positioned inside the atomization chamber and has an airway slot with an opening facing the heating element, the upstream groove segment of the slot having a greater depth than the downstream groove segment, forming part of the sidewalls of the transition airway segment and the second airway segment, respectively.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the base component comprises: a bottom cover, the top surface of which, facing the atomization chamber, forms a first chamber; a liquid-absorbing body filled in the first chamber; the bottom cover is equipped with a first air hole, and the liquid-absorbing body has a second air hole, the first air hole and the second air hole are sequentially connected to form the first airway segment. In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the base component is equipped with an intercepting air hole located upstream in the airflow path of the first airway segment, and the intercepting air hole is in airflow communication with the first airway segment; the fluid flux at the intercepting air hole is less than that at any point in the airway.

In an embodiment of the cartomizer in the present invention, the bottom surface of the base component has a second chamber facing away from the atomization chamber, and the intercepting air hole, the second chamber, and the first airway segment are successively in airflow communication.

The second aspect of the embodiment of the present invention discloses a cartridge for an aerosol provision system is provided, the cartridge comprises the cartomizer as described in the first aspect; the cartridge has a mouthpiece outlet, with the second airway segment positioned near the mouthpiece outlet, and the first airway segment positioned away from the mouthpiece outlet.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the biased airway design of the cartridge's cartomizer is realized through the transition airway segment. This design allows for the implementation of a vertical airway within the atomization chamber without the necessity of aligning the first airway segment for air intake with the coaxial axis of the airway inside the atomization chamber. In comparison to existing technology, this provides more potential positions for deploying the first airway segment. It enhances the flexibility in designing the position of cartomizer components, and with a rational selection of the airway position, it reduces the size of the base component. Consequently, it minimizes the volume of the cartomizer, achieving a compact design not only for the cartomizer but also for the cartridge.

The third aspect of the embodiment of the present invention discloses an aerosol provision system, the system comprises: the cartomizer described in the first aspect or the cartridge described in the second aspect; and a power source, configured to electrically connect with the electrodes.

Through the biased airway design in the embodiment of the present invention, the implementation allows for the use of a vertical airway within the atomization chamber without the necessity of aligning the first airway segment for air intake with the coaxial axis of the airway inside the atomization chamber. In comparison to existing technology, this provides more possible positions for deploying the first airway segment. It enhances the flexibility in designing the position of cartomizer components, and with a rational selection of the airway position, it reduces the size of the base component. Consequently, it minimizes the volume of the cartomizer and the overall system, achieving a compact design for the system.

In an embodiment of the aerosol provision system in the present invention, further comprises: housing; power source, situated within the housing and configured to provision power to the heating element through the electrodes and pins; and aerosol generating material, accommodated within the system.

In an embodiment of the aerosol provision system in the present invention, the system comprises an air inlet located in the middle or bottom of the system, with the air inlet in airflow communication with the first airway segment.

In an embodiment of the aerosol provision system in the present invention, 22. the system comprises the base component of the cartomizer and a power containment chamber; the base component of the cartomizer or the top of the power containment chamber is equipped with an intercepting air hole, where the fluid flux at the intercepting air hole is less than that at any point in the airway.

Through the biased airway design in the embodiment of the present invention, the implementation allows for the use of a vertical airway within the atomization chamber without the necessity of aligning the first airway segment for air intake with the coaxial axis of the airway inside the atomization chamber. In comparison to existing technology, this provides more possible positions for deploying the first airway segment. It enhances the flexibility in designing the position of cartomizer components, and with a rational selection of the airway position, it reduces the size of the base component. Consequently, it minimizes the volume of the cartomizer and the system, achieving a compact design for the system.

Furthermore, by positioning the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment on the side of the central axis of the second airway segment away from the heating element, the air coming from the first airway segment can flow towards the heating element. This arrangement directs more air onto the heating element, carrying away more aerosol and ensuring that the air is more thoroughly heated. This helps prevent the puffing of cold air by the user, which could impact the taste sensation. Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be partly given in the following description, will become apparent from the following description, or will be learned through the practice of the invention.

Description of Drawing

Referring to the accompanying drawings, the disclosed content of the present invention will become more understandable. It is easily understood by those skilled in the art that these drawings are only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Moreover, similar numbers in the figures are used to represent similar components, among which:

Figure 1 and Figure 2 are three-dimensional structural diagrams of the aerosol provision system provided in different embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 3 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 is an exploded view of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 is a sectional view in one direction of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a structural diagram of the base component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, where the base component has electrode-penetrating structures;

Figure 7 is a structural diagram of the base component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, where the electrode-penetrating structures are not shown in the base component;

Figure 8 is a sectional view in one direction of the base component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a three-dimensional diagram of the airway component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 is an exploded view of the cartridge structure in the aerosol provision system disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 is a sectional view in one direction of Figure 10;

Figure 12 and Figure 13 are sectional views from different perspectives of the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 is a partial structural diagram of the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, showing the liquid inlet structure.

Description of Drawing Label :

100: Housing; 101 : Mouthpiece; 102: Air outlet; 103: Air inlet; 104: First sealing cover; 105: Second sealing cover; 110: Upper housing; 120: Lower housing; 200: Containment chamber; 300: Cartomizer; 310: Atomization chamber; 320: Cartomizer frame; 321 : Structural component; 330: Airway component; 331 : Airway groove; 3311 : Upstream groove segment; 3312: Downstream groove segment; 341 : Heating element; 342: Oil guide body; 350: Base component; 352: Electrode; 353: Bottom cover; 3531 : First air hole; 3532: First chamber; 3533: Second chamber; 354: First airway seal; 3571 : Through-hole; 3572: Electrode groove; 358: Liquid-absorbing material; 3581 : Second air hole; 359: Intercepting hole; 361 : First airway segment; 362: Transition airway segment; 363: Second airway segment; 400: Power source; 500: Controller; 600: Liquid inlet structure; 610: Support frame; 611 : Containment groove; 620: Liquid inlet channel; 621 : Annular groove; 622: Liquid guide groove; 6211 : First side wall; 630: First liquid inlet hole; 640: Vent hole; 700: Second airway seal; 710: Second liquid inlet hole.

Detailed description

The following describes some embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are only for explaining the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

As used herein, the term “delivery system” is intended to encompass systems that deliver at least one substance to a user in use, and includes: combustible aerosol provision systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for roll-your-own or for make-your-own cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smokable material); non-combustible aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosol-generating material without combusting the aerosol-generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials; and aerosol-free delivery systems that deliver the at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.

According to the present disclosure, a “combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is combusted or burned during use in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of a cigarette, a cigarillo and a cigar.

In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a filter, a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, a spill, an aerosol-modifying agent release component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead, or a paper such as a plug wrap, a tipping paper or a cigarette paper.

According to the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

In some embodiments, the delivery system is an aerosol-free delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material or a material that is not intended to be aerosolised. As appropriate, either material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and/or one or more other functional materials.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance. The active substance as used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may for example be selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may comprise for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.

As noted herein, the active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

As noted herein, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "botanical" includes any material derived from plants including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fibres, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husk, shells or the like. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally existing in a botanical, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, shreds, strips, sheets, or the like.

Example botanicals are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice (liquorice), matcha, mate, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (anise), basil, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, Wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof. The mint may be chosen from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arventis, Mentha c.v., Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata c.v., Mentha piperita c.v, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Memtha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata c.v. and Mentha suaveolens.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa and hemp.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from rooibos and fennel.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises a flavour. As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. They may include naturally occurring flavour materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, Wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, liquid such as an oil, solid such as a powder, or gas.

In some embodiments, the flavour comprises menthol, spearmint and/or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits and/or redberry. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from cannabis.

In some embodiments, the flavour may comprise a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to eucolyptol, WS-3.

Aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.

The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1 ,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.

The material may be present on or in a support, to form a substrate. The support may, for example, be or comprise paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the support comprises a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material.

A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may, for example, comprise combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

A susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrical ly-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.

An aerosol-modifying agent is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol generation area, that is configured to modify the aerosol generated, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material.

An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems (which may also be referred to as vapour delivery systems) such as nebulisers or e-cigarettes. Throughout the following description the term "e-cigarette" or "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used, but it will be appreciated this term may be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery system I device and electronic aerosol delivery system I device. Furthermore, and as is common in the technical field, the terms "aerosol" and "vapour", and related terms such as "vaporise", "volatilise" and "aerosolise", may generally be used interchangeably.

Aerosol delivery systems (e-cigarettes) often, though not always, comprise a modular assembly comprising a reusable device part and a replaceable (disposable/consumable) cartridge part. Often, the replaceable cartridge part will comprise the aerosol-generating material and the vaporiser (which may collectively be called a “cartomizer”) and the reusable device part will comprise the power provision (e.g. rechargeable power source) and control circuitry. It will be appreciated these different parts may comprise further elements depending on functionality. For example, the reusable device part will often comprise a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operating status characteristics, and the replaceable cartridge device part in some cases comprises a temperature sensor for helping to control temperature. Cartridges are electrically and mechanically coupled to the control unit for use, for example using a screw thread, bayonet, or magnetic coupling with appropriately arranged electrical contacts. When the aerosol-generating material in a cartridge is exhausted, or the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge having a different aerosol-generating material, the cartridge may be removed from the reusable part and a replacement cartridge attached in its place. Systems and devices conforming to this type of two-part modular configuration may generally be referred to as two-part systems/devices.

It is common for electronic cigarettes to have a generally elongate shape. For the sake of providing a concrete example, certain embodiments of the disclosure will be taken to comprise this kind of generally elongate two-part system employing disposable cartridges. However, it will be appreciated that the underlying principles described herein may equally be adopted for different configurations, for example single-part systems or modular systems comprising more than two parts, refillable devices and single-use disposables, as well as other overall shapes, for example based on so-called box-mod high performance devices that typically have a boxier shape. More generally, it will be appreciated certain embodiments of the disclosure are based on aerosol delivery systems which are operationally configured to provide functionality in accordance with the principles described herein and the constructional aspects of systems configured to provide the functionality in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure is not of primary significance.

As described in the technical background, currently, the internal airway design of cartomizers requires the base component to have a sufficiently large size, resulting in issues such as a large volume for the cartomizer. In light of this, the embodiments of the present invention creatively provide a new cartomizer, cartridge, and system for an aerosol provision system. By introducing a biased airway within the cartomizer, it allows for more possible positions for deploying the first airway segment on the base component, building upon the foundation of a vertical airway within the atomization chamber. This enhances the flexibility in designing the position of cartomizer components, and with a rational selection of the airway position, it reduces the size of the base component. Consequently, it minimizes the volume of the cartomizer, achieving a compact design for the cartomizer.

The detailed description of the aerosol provision system's cartomizer, cartridge, and system structure will be provided through specific embodiments of the present invention.

Embodiment One

Figure 1 illustrates a cartomizer for an aerosol provision system provided in the embodiment one of the present invention. Figure 1 and Figure 2 are three-dimensional structural diagrams of the aerosol provision system provided in different embodiments of the present invention; Figure 3 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is an exploded view of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a sectional view in one direction of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a structural diagram of the base component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, where the base component has electrode-penetrating structures; Figure 7 is a structural diagram of the base component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, where the electrode-penetrating structures are not shown in the base component; Figure 8 is a sectional view in one direction of the base component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 is a three-dimensional diagram of the airway component of the cartomizer in the aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to the Figure 1-2, the aerosol provision system is an elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol provision system comprises a housing 100 that extends along the height direction, comprising opposing proximal and distal ends and a structure extending between the proximal and distal ends. The housing 100 is equipped with a mouthpiece 101 at the proximal end, and an air outlet 102 is provided on the mouthpiece 101. An air inlet 103 is also formed on the housing 100. The air inlet 103 can be positioned at the distal end as shown in the figure or at other locations on the housing 100.

The housing 100 contains a space and an airway, and within the containment space, there is a containment chamber that holds aerosol-generating material (such as e-liquid), a cartomizer, a power source (battery component), and a controller (control circuit). The power source is configured to provision power to the cartomizer under the control of the controller. The cartomizer comprises an atomization chamber with a heating component, and the atomization chamber is fluidly connected to the containment chamber, allowing the aerosol-generating material in the containment chamber to enter the cartomizer and be heated.

The air inlet 103, atomization chamber, and air outlet 102 form the airway within the housing. When the user inhales, external air enters through the air inlet 103, passes through the atomization chamber taking the aerosol with it, and exits through the air outlet 102 to reach the user.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the system also comprises a first sealing cover 104 for sealing the air outlet 102 and a second sealing cover 105 for sealing the air inlet 103. When the aerosol provision system is not in use, the first sealing cover 104 and the second sealing cover 105 can be applied to ensure safety and hygiene.

Referring to Figure 3-9, the cartomizer 300 comprises an atomization chamber 310, a cartomizer frame 320 forming the atomization chamber 310, an airway component 330, and a heating element located inside the atomization chamber 310. The cartomizer frame 320 comprises a structural component 321 and a support frame 610 that cooperates with it to form the atomization chamber 310. The support frame 610 forms a containment groove 611 , and the airway component 330 is assembled within the containment groove 611. The heating element is clamped and fixed within the containment groove 611 by the support frame 610 and the airway component 330. Both the heating element and the airway component 330 are connected to the structural component 321 and the support frame 610.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the surface of the airway component is equipped with multiple grooves to collect the condensate formed by the aerosol condensing in the atomization chamber. This helps prevent condensate leakage outside the atomization chamber. The heating element comprises stacked heating elements 341 and an oil guide body 342. The oil guide body 342 is used to transport the liquid aerosol-generating material in the containment chamber to the heating element 341. In one embodiment of the present invention, the oil guide body 342 can be a material like cotton or ceramic to facilitate oil guiding. In one embodiment of the present invention, the oil guide body 342 can have a multi-layered, porous structure.

In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 4, the heating element 341 is a heating mesh. The mesh holes of the heating mesh can be circular or any other polygonal shape. The heating element can be in a flat shape and may extend along the vertical direction of the cartomizer.

The cartomizer 300 further comprises a base component 350, detachably assembled on the cartomizer frame 320 to define the bottom of the atomization chamber 310. The base component 350 comprises a bottom cover 353 with a top surface facing the atomization chamber 310 and a bottom surface away from the atomization chamber 310. Two electrode holes are formed through the bottom and top surfaces, allowing the insertion of the electrode 352. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the electrode holes comprise through-holes 3571 penetrating the top and bottom surfaces of the bottom cover 353 and electrode grooves 3572 set on the bottom surface outside the through-holes 3571. A portion of the electrode 352 passes through the through-holes 3571 , while another portion is accommodated in the electrode grooves 3572, covering a part of the bottom surface of the bottom cover 353.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a biased airway design is provided within the cartomizer. As shown in Figure 5, this biased airway comprises three sequentially connected segments along the airflow path (indicated by the arrows): the first airway segment 361 , the transition airway segment 362, and the second airway segment 363. The first airway segment 361 defines the airflow inlet of the biased airway, responsible for directing the airflow into the airway. The second airway segment 363 is situated within the atomization chamber 310 and extends vertically along the length of the cartomizer, acting as a vertical airway segment. The second airway segment 363 defines the airflow outlet of the airway, directing the airflow out of the airway. Importantly, the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment 361 deviates from the central axis of the second airway segment 363, creating a biased arrangement between them. The first airway segment 361 penetrates through the bottom surface and top surface of the base component. As shown in Figure 8, the top surface of the bottom cover 353 of the base component faces the atomization chamber, forming the first chamber 3532. The first chamber 3532 is filled with liquid-absorbing material 358. A first air hole 3531 is set on the top of the bottom cover 353, and a second air hole 3581 is provided in the liquid-absorbing material 358. The first air hole 3531 and the second air hole 3581 are sequentially connected, forming the first airway segment 361. The bottom surface of the bottom cover 353 forms the bottom surface of the base component, and the top surface of the liquid-absorbing material 358, along with part of the top surface of the bottom cover 353, forms the top surface of the base component. The liquid-absorbing material in the present invention can be materials such as cotton.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the shortest distance from the geometric center of the bottom surface of the base component to the electrode holes is less than the radius of the inlet of the first airway segment. This reduction in distance helps minimize the dimensions between the two electrode holes, enabling a compact design for the base component and even the cartomizer.

In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 5, the first airway segment 361 is positioned on the side of the second airway segment 362 away from the heating element 341 . Specifically, the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment 361 is set on the side of the central axis of the second airway segment 362 that is away from the heating element. The transition airway segment 362 is a straight airway inclined relative to the first airway segment 361 , rather than a curved airway. This configuration allows the incoming air from the first airway segment 361 to flow towards the heating element 341 after passing through the transition airway segment 362, as indicated by the arrows in the diagram. Consequently, more air can be directed onto the heating element to carry away additional aerosol, ensuring thorough heating and preventing the puffing of cold air by the user, thereby enhancing the overall experience.

In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 6-8, the bottom cover 353 is equipped with an intercepting hole 359 located upstream in the airflow path of the first airway segment 361. The intercepting hole 359 is in fluid communication with the airflow of the first airway segment 361. Specifically, the bottom surface of the bottom cover 353 forms the second chamber 3533, which is away from the atomization chamber. The intercepting hole 359, second chamber 3533, and first airway segment 361 are sequentially fluidly connected. The fluid flow rate at the intercepting hole 359 is less than the fluid flow rate at any location in the internal airways of the cartomizer.

As shown in Figure 5, the airway component 330 and the heating element 341 together form an airway assembly, and the gap between them defines the airway, which comprises at least the second airway segment 363.

In the present invention, the first airway segment is formed on the base component, and the second airway segment is formed on the airway component and heating element forming the airway assembly within the atomization chamber. In one embodiment of the invention, the transition airway segment may be formed on the base component along with the first airway segment, as needed. In another alternative embodiment, the transition airway segment may be partially formed on the base component and partially on the airway component and heating element forming the airway component. It is understood that the transition airway segment can also be formed on other components outside the base and airway component.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the transition airway segment 362 and the second airway segment 363 are formed together on the airway component 330 and the heating element 341 forming the airway assembly. As shown in Figures 5, 6, and 9, the airway component 330 in the airway component is located within the atomization chamber 310 and has an opening facing the heating element 341 , known as the airway groove 331. The upstream groove segment 3311 of the airway groove 331 has a greater groove depth than the downstream groove segment 3312, forming partial sidewalls of the transition airway segment 362 and the second airway segment 363, respectively.

As shown in Figure 5, when the first airway segment 361 is formed on the base component 350, and the transition airway segment 362, along with the second airway segment 363, is formed on the airway component 330 and heating element 341 forming the airway assembly, a first airway seal 354 can be positioned between the first airway segment 361 and the transition airway segment 362 to provide airflow sealing in the circumferential space between the airway segments. The first airway seal 354 has openings to facilitate communication between the first airway segment 361 and the transition airway segment 362.

In the present invention, the orientation of the first airway segment, the second airway segment, and the heating element can be selectively arranged as needed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the heating element is generally vertically oriented along the length direction of the cartomizer, and the second airway segment is approximately parallel to the length direction of the heating element.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the second airway segment passes through the central axis of the cartomizer. As an example, and not by limitation, the second airway segment is generally co-axially aligned with the central axis of the cartomizer.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the central axis of the first airway segment deviates from the central axis of the cartomizer, and the two axes do not coincide.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the central axis of the first airway segment is parallel to the central axis of the second airway segment. Both are vertically oriented airways arranged along the length direction of the cartomizer. In alternative embodiments, the central axis of the first airway segment may form a certain angle with the central axis of the second airway segment.

In the present invention, the positioning of the first airway segment and the second airway segment can be selected. In one embodiment of the present invention, the angle by which the transition airway segment deviates from the central axis of the second airway segment or the first airway segment is greater than or equal to 45° and less than 90°. This angle allows the first airway segment to be positioned appropriately without excessive deviation from the geometric center of the base component, avoiding difficulties in opening airways at the edges of the components. At the same time, this angle helps to prevent the transition airway segment from being too long or deviating too much, avoiding obstacles to airflow circulation within it.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of the inlet of the transition airway segment can be set to be greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of its outlet of the first airway segment. As shown in Figure 5, the cross-sectional area of the inlet of the transition airway segment 362 is set to be greater than the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the first airway segment 361. In one implementation, the positive projection of the inlet of the transition airway segment in the first airway segment covers the outlet of the first airway segment. With this configuration, all airflow from the first airway segment can be directed into the transition airway segment. In an embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the transition airway segment can be set to be greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of the inlet of the second airway segment. As shown in Figure 5, the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the transition airway segment 362 is set to be equal to the cross-sectional area of the inlet of the second airway segment 363. In one implementation, the positive projection of the outlet of the transition airway segment in the second airway segment completely overlaps the inlet of the second airway segment.

It is noted that the cartomizer comprises the aforementioned first airway segment, second airway segment, and third airway segment. In some embodiments of the present invention, the cartomizer may also comprise additional airway segments. The atomization chamber is equipped with the second airway segment, and in some embodiments of the present invention, the atomization chamber may also comprise additional airway segments. For example, within the atomization chamber, the third airway segment can be set downstream of the second airway segment to connect to the external of the cartomizer. The present invention does not specifically limit this configuration.

Embodiment Two

The embodiment two of the present invention provides a cartridge for an aerosol provision system. Figure 10 is an exploded view of the structure of the cartridge disclosed in this embodiment, and Figure 11 is a sectional view of Figure 10 in a certain direction. As shown in Figures 10 and 11 , the cartridge comprises a cartridge housing, a mouthpiece 101 set at one end of the housing, a containment chamber 200 set inside the cartridge housing, and a cartomizer 300 with a biased airway. The mouthpiece 101 has an air outlet 102, which is the mouthpiece outlet. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge housing can be set similar to the housing 110 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

The cartomizer 300 inside the housing comprises sequentially connected first airway segment 361 , transition airway segment 362, and second airway segment 363 along the airflow path. The central axis of the air outlet of the first airway segment 361 is offset from the central axis of the second airway segment 362, forming a biased airway structure. The first airway segment 361 defines the airflow inlet of the biased airway, which is used to introduce the airflow into the airway and is located away from the mouthpiece outlet. The second airway segment 363 is set inside the atomization chamber 310 and extends vertically along the length of the cartomizer. The second airway segment 363 is located near the mouthpiece outlet, defining the airflow outlet of the airway, which transports atomized aerosol to the mouthpiece outlet.

The specific configuration of the cartomizer in the embodiment two of the present invention can be referred to the description provided in the above-mentioned embodiment one, and will not be detailed here.

Embodiment Three

The embodiment three of the present invention provides an aerosol provision system. In one embodiment, the system may comprise the cartomizer disclosed in the embodiment one or the cartridge disclosed in the embodiment two above.

Wherein the first airway segment is in fluid communication with the system's air inlet, which can be positioned at the bottom of the system as shown in Figure 1 , or at various locations such as the middle of the system.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises an intercepting hole positioned upstream in the fluid flow path of the first airway segment. The fluid flux at the intercepting hole is smaller than the fluid flux at any location of the bias airway in the present invention. The intercepting hole can be positioned as shown in Figure 8, either in the cartomizer section of the cartridge or in the lower part of the system. Specifically, it can be located on the base component of the cartomizer, or at the top of the battery compartment inside the system.

Figure 12 and 13 are the cross-sectional views from different perspectives of an aerosol provision system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 1 , 2, 12, and 13, the aerosol provision system is an elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol provision system comprises, in the vertical direction, opposing proximal and distal ends, and a housing 100 extending between the proximal and distal ends. The housing 100 forms a containment space and airways. Within the containment space, there is a containment chamber 200, a cartomizer 300, a power source (battery component) 400, and a controller (control circuit) 500. The containment chamber 200, cartomizer 300, controller 500, and power source 400 are arranged approximately along the height direction of the system. The power source 400 is configured to provision power to the heating element in the cartomizer 300 under the control of the controller 500. The cartomizer 300 has an atomization chamber 310 for accommodating the heating element. The atomization chamber 310 is fluidly connected to the containment chamber 200, allowing the aerosol-generating material in the containment chamber 200 to enter the atomization chamber 310 and be heated by the heating element.

The housing 100 comprises two independent parts, namely the upper housing 110 with the mouthpiece 101 and the lower housing 120. The upper housing 110 houses the containment chamber 200 and cartomizer 300, while the lower housing 120 accommodates the power source 400 and controller 500. In some embodiments, there is also a power source containment chamber to house the power source 400. The lower part of the upper housing 110 is positioned within the lower housing 120. In alternative embodiments, the upper housing 110 and lower housing 120 are substantially non-overlapping in the vertical direction of the system, and the lower end of the upper housing 110 connects to the upper end of the lower housing 120 to form the housing 100.

In one embodiment, the upper housing 110 and lower housing 120 are configured to be detachably connected, allowing for the replacement of aerosol-generating materials or cartomizer 300, or enabling the connection of different power sources 400. It should be understood that, in other embodiments, the upper housing 110 and lower housing 120 may be permanently connected once assembled.

It is noted that the upper housing 110 in the embodiments of the present invention, along with its internal components, can together form the cartridge mentioned in embodiment two. This cartridge can be a detachable component installed on the lower housing 120, allowing for the replacement of the cartridge.

In replaceable embodiments, contrary to the independently set upper and lower housing structure, the housing 100 can also be configured as an integral independently molded structure. From the perspective of internal component assembly and reusability, the configuration with separate upper and lower housings is advantageous compared to an integrally molded housing.

In other embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol provision system can take the form of a box structure, and the cartomizer 300 and power source 400 can be arranged along the left and right horizontal directions. The housing 100 can be configured as an integrally molded box housing or may comprise two connected housings arranged side by side, with one housing containing the cavity 200 and cartomizer 300, and the other housing containing the power source 400 and controller 500. The left and right housings can be configured for detachable connection. However, in replaceable embodiments, once assembled, the left and right housings are permanently connected.

The mouthpiece 101 can be integrally molded with the housing 100 or separable from the housing 100. A detachable mouthpiece 101 facilitates cleaning. Additionally, the presence of a detachable mouthpiece 101 can facilitate access to the interior of the housing 100 for easy replacement of the aerosol-generating material inside the housing 100.

The power source 400 is configured to provision power to the cartomizer 300 and can specifically be a battery component. In other examples, the battery can be replaced by a portable power source (such as capacitive power storage devices like supercapacitors), mechanical power sources (spring or generator), or alternative chemical energy sources (such as fuel cells).

The aerosol-generating material can be in the form of a solid, powder, or liquid. In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 12 and 13, the containment chamber 200 is designed to hold a liquid aerosol-generating material. The containment chamber 200 comprises an outer wall, and the outer wall of the containment chamber 200 can be integrally formed with the housing 100, meaning that the outer wall forms a part of the housing 100. Alternatively, the outer wall and the housing 100 can be separate components, with the housing 100 positioned outside the outer wall. The outer wall covers at least a portion of the external surface of the cartomizer 300, and the containment chamber 200 is jointly defined by the outer wall and a portion of the surface of the cartomizer 300.

To achieve aerosolization, the liquid aerosol-generating material in the containment chamber 200 needs to be transported to the atomization chamber 310. For this purpose, the system also comprises a liquid inlet structure 600 for delivering liquid aerosol-generating material from the containment cavity 200 to the atomization chamber 310.

Figure 14 is a partial structural diagram of the aerosol provision system provided in the present embodiment, showing the liquid inlet structure. Referring to Figure 12-14, the liquid inlet structure 600 provided in the present embodiment comprises a support frame 610, a liquid inlet channel 620, a first liquid inlet hole 630, and a vent hole 640. The liquid inlet channel 620 is in communication with both the containment cavity 200 and the atomization chamber 310.

The support frame 610 is formed with interconnected liquid guide grooves 622 and annular grooves 621. It can be understood that the annular groove 621 is set on the upper surface of the support frame 610, and this upper surface faces the containment chamber 200. The liquid guide groove 622 can be composed of multiple parts, and at least a portion of the liquid guide groove 622 extends along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol provision system. The liquid guide groove 622 and the annular groove 621 together form the above-mentioned liquid inlet channel 620. The longitudinally extending portion of the liquid guide groove 622, adjacent to the atomization chamber 310 along the transverse direction of the system, forms one side of the atomization chamber 310 with a first side wall 6211. The first liquid inlet hole 630 and the vent hole 640 are both set in this first side wall 6211 , penetrating through the first side wall 6211. The first liquid inlet hole 630 and the vent hole 640 connect the liquid guide groove 622 with the atomization chamber 310. The aerosol-generating material in the containment chamber 200 enters the atomization chamber 310 successively through the liquid guide groove 622 and the first liquid inlet hole 630. The vent hole 640 is configured to communicate with the external atmosphere of the aerosol provision system. Therefore, during the use of the system, when the internal pressure of the containment chamber 200 decreases due to the consumption of the aerosol-generating material, external atmosphere enters the atomization chamber 310 from the outside due to the pressure difference. It then enters the liquid guide groove 622 through the vent hole 640, and then enters the containment chamber 200 through the liquid guide groove 622, maintaining the hydraulic balance of the containment chamber 200.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, along the height direction of the system, the vent hole 640 is positioned above the first liquid inlet hole 630. This arrangement prevents bubbles generated in the aerosol-generating material from getting stuck at the first liquid inlet hole 630, preventing blockages and ensuring the smooth entry of aerosol-generating material from the containment chamber 200 into the atomization chamber 310, thereby avoiding any impact on the system's functionality.

Furthermore, the system comprises a second airway seal 700 for sealing between the support frame 610 and the containment chamber 200. In specific implementations, the shape and size of the second airway seal 700 are adapted to match the size and shape of the end of the support frame 610 near the containment chamber 200, without specific limitations. The outer wall of the containment chamber 200 is placed around the periphery of the second airway seal 700, and the part of the outer wall in contact with the second airway seal 700 is in interference fit. This prevents leakage of aerosol-generating material from the containment chamber 200, avoiding contamination of other components, such as the battery assembly, in the aerosol supply system. To achieve fluid communication between the containment chamber 200 and the liquid guide groove 622, the second airway seal 700 has a second liquid inlet hole 710, allowing aerosol-generating material from the containment chamber 200 to enter the liquid guide groove 622 through the second liquid inlet hole 710.

Certainly, in the embodiment three of the present invention, the specifics of the cartomizer and the cartridge included in the system can be referred to the descriptions in embodiments one and two, and will not be detailed here.

In replaceable embodiments, the cartomizer and cartridge included in the system may differ from those described in the aforementioned embodiment one and two.

In the description of this specification, the referential terminology "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" means that specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are comprised in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the indicative expression of the above-mentioned terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the described specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable way in any one or more embodiments or examples.

Moreover, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used merely for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, the characteristics defined as "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly comprise at least one such characteristic. In the description of this invention, the term "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

In this invention, unless explicitly defined and limited, terms such as "mounting," "connecting," "connection," "fixing," etc., should be understood broadly. For instance, the connection can be a fixed connection or a detachable connection, or integrated; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediary medium, it can be the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless explicitly defined otherwise. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of these terms in the context of the invention based on the circumstances.

Aspects of the subject matter described herein are set out in the following numbered clauses:

1. A cartomizer for an aerosol provision system, wherein the cartomizer internally comprises an airway that comprises a first airway segment, a transition airway segment, and a second airway segment, wherein the first airway segment, the transition airway segment and the second airway segment are sequentially connected along the airflow path; the first airway segment defines an airflow inlet of the airway, and the second airway segment defines an airflow outlet of the airway, with a central axis of an outlet of the first airway segment deviating from a central axis of the second airway segment; and an atomization chamber inside the cartomizer and housing a heating element, wherein the second airway segment is located within the atomization chamber and is a vertically extending airway segment along a length of the cartomizer.

2. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 1 , wherein: the cartomizer comprises a base component and two electrodes, with the base component having a top surface facing the atomization chamber and a bottom surface facing away from the chamber; the first airway segment and two electrode holes, through which the electrodes are inserted, penetrate the bottom and top surfaces of the base component; the electrodes cover part of the bottom surface of the base component, with the shortest distance from the geometric center of the bottom surface to the electrode holes being less than a radius of an inlet of the first airway segment.

3. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein the heating element is vertically oriented, and the second airway segment is parallel to a length of the heating element.

4. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 3, wherein the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment is located on a side of the second airway segment that is away from the heating element. 5. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein the second airway segment passes through a central axis of the cartomizer.

6. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 5, wherein the second airway segment and the cartomizer share the same central axis.

7. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein the central axis of the first airway segment does not coincide with the central axis of the cartomizer.

8. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein the central axis of the first airway segment is parallel to the central axis of the second airway segment.

9. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein an angle at which the transition airway segment deviates from the central axis of the second airway segment is greater than or equal to 45° but less than 90°.

10. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein a cross-sectional area of an inlet of the transition airway segment is larger than a cross-sectional area of the outlet of the first airway segment.

11. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 10, wherein a positive projection of the inlet of the transition airway segment in the first airway segment covers the outlet of the first airway segment.

12. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein a cross-sectional area of the outlet of the transition airway segment is larger than a cross-sectional area of an inlet of the second airway segment.

13. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 12, wherein a positive projection of the outlet of the transition airway segment in the second airway segment completely overlaps the inlet of the second airway segment.

14. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein the cartomizer also comprises an airway assembly set within the atomization chamber; the transition airway segment and the first airway segment are formed on the base assembly, and the second airway segment is formed on the airway assembly; or, the first airway segment is formed on the base component, the second airway segment is formed on the airway assembly, and the transition airway segment is formed on both the base component and the airway assembly; or, the transition airway segment and the second airway segment are formed on the airway assembly, and the first airway segment is formed on the base component.

15. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 14, wherein the airway assembly comprises an airway component and the heating element; the airway component is positioned inside the atomization chamber and has an airway slot with an opening facing the heating element, an upstream groove segment of the slot having a greater depth than an downstream groove segment, forming part of sidewalls of the transition airway segment and the second airway segment, respectively.

16. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein the base component comprises: a bottom cover, a top surface of which, facing the atomization chamber, forms a first chamber; a liquid-absorbing body filled in the first chamber; the bottom cover is equipped with a first air hole, and the liquid-absorbing body has a second air hole, the first air hole and the second air hole are sequentially connected to form the first airway segment.

17. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 2, wherein the base component is equipped with an intercepting air hole located upstream in the airflow path of the first airway segment, and the intercepting air hole is in airflow communication with the first airway segment; an fluid flux at the intercepting air hole is less than that at any point in the airway.

18. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to clause 17, wherein the bottom surface of the base component has a second chamber facing away from the atomization chamber, and the intercepting air hole, the second chamber, and the first airway segment are successively in airflow communication.

19. A cartridge for an aerosol provision system, wherein the cartridge comprises the cartomizer according to any one of clauses 1-18; the cartridge has a mouthpiece outlet, with the second airway segment positioned near the mouthpiece outlet, and the first airway segment positioned away from the mouthpiece outlet.

20. An aerosol provision system, wherein the system comprises: the cartomizer according to any one of clauses 1-18 or the cartridge according to clause 19; and a power source, configured to electrically connect with the electrodes. 21 . An aerosol provision system according to clause 20, wherein the system comprises an air inlet located in a middle or a bottom of the system, with the air inlet in airflow communication with the first airway segment.

22. An aerosol provision system according to clause 21 , wherein the system comprises the base component of the cartomizer and a power containment chamber; and the base component of the cartomizer or a top of the power containment chamber is equipped with an intercepting air hole, where a fluid flux at the intercepting air hole is less than that at any point in the airway.

Although the embodiments of the invention have been shown and described above, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are exemplary and should not be considered as limiting the invention. Those skilled in the art within the scope of the invention can make variations, modifications, replacements, and variations to the above-described embodiments.

Claims

2. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 1 , wherein: the cartomizer comprises a base component and two electrodes, with the base component having a top surface facing the atomization chamber and a bottom surface facing away from the chamber; the first airway segment and two electrode holes, through which the electrodes are inserted, penetrate the bottom and top surfaces of the base component; the electrodes cover part of the bottom surface of the base component, with the shortest distance from the geometric center of the bottom surface to the electrode holes being less than a radius of an inlet of the first airway segment.

3. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the heating element is vertically oriented, and the second airway segment is parallel to a length of the heating element.

4. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 3, wherein the central axis of the outlet of the first airway segment is located on a side of the second airway segment that is away from the heating element.

5. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the second airway segment passes through a central axis of the cartomizer.

6. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 5, wherein the second airway segment and the cartomizer share the same central axis.

7. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the central axis of the first airway segment does not coincide with the central axis of the cartomizer.

8. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the central axis of the first airway segment is parallel to the central axis of the second airway segment.

9. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein an angle at which the transition airway segment deviates from the central axis of the second airway segment is greater than or equal to 45° but less than 90°.

10. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein a cross-sectional area of an inlet of the transition airway segment is larger than a cross-sectional area of the outlet of the first airway segment.

11. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 10, wherein a positive projection of the inlet of the transition airway segment in the first airway segment covers the outlet of the first airway segment.

12. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein a cross-sectional area of the outlet of the transition airway segment is larger than a cross-sectional area of an inlet of the second airway segment.

13. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 12, wherein a positive projection of the outlet of the transition airway segment in the second airway segment completely overlaps the inlet of the second airway segment.

14. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the cartomizer also comprises an airway assembly set within the atomization chamber; the transition airway segment and the first airway segment are formed on the base assembly, and the second airway segment is formed on the airway assembly; or, the first airway segment is formed on the base component, the second airway segment is formed on the airway assembly, and the transition airway segment is formed on both the base component and the airway assembly; or, the transition airway segment and the second airway segment are formed on the airway assembly, and the first airway segment is formed on the base component.

15. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 14, wherein the airway assembly comprises an airway component and the heating element; the airway component is positioned inside the atomization chamber and has an airway slot with an opening facing the heating element, an upstream groove segment of the slot having a greater depth than an downstream groove segment, forming part of sidewalls of the transition airway segment and the second airway segment, respectively.

16. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the base component comprises: a bottom cover, a top surface of which, facing the atomization chamber, forms a first chamber; a liquid-absorbing body filled in the first chamber; the bottom cover is equipped with a first air hole, and the liquid-absorbing body has a second air hole, the first air hole and the second air hole are sequentially connected to form the first airway segment.

17. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the base component is equipped with an intercepting air hole located upstream in the airflow path of the first airway segment, and the intercepting air hole is in airflow communication with the first airway segment; an fluid flux at the intercepting air hole is less than that at any point in the airway.

18. The cartomizer for an aerosol provision system according to claim 17, wherein the bottom surface of the base component has a second chamber facing away from the atomization chamber, and the intercepting air hole, the second chamber, and the first airway segment are successively in airflow communication.

19. A cartridge for an aerosol provision system, wherein the cartridge comprises the cartomizer according to any one of claims 1-18; the cartridge has a mouthpiece outlet, with the second airway segment positioned near the mouthpiece outlet, and the first airway segment positioned away from the mouthpiece outlet.

20. An aerosol provision system, wherein the system comprises: the cartomizer according to any one of claims 1-18 or the cartridge according to claim 19; and a power source, configured to electrically connect with the electrodes.

21. An aerosol provision system according to claim 20, wherein the system comprises an air inlet located in a middle or a bottom of the system, with the air inlet in airflow communication with the first airway segment.

22. An aerosol provision system according to claim 21 , wherein the system comprises the base component of the cartomizer and a power containment chamber; and the base component of the cartomizer or a top of the power containment chamber is equipped with an intercepting air hole, where a fluid flux at the intercepting air hole is less than that at any point in the airway.