Aerosol delivery system

Abstract

An aerosol delivery system configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material is described. The aerosol delivery system comprises: a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; a plurality of aerosol generators electrically coupled to the variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied — the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator —; and a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to the variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter the output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal. The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal. An aerosol delivery device, consumables, and a method of operation are also described.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to non-combustion aerosol delivery systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to the selective energy supply of aerosol generators for use in non-combustion aerosol delivery systems. Background Technology

[0002] Non-combustion aerosol delivery systems for generating aerosols for inhalation by a user are known in the art. These systems typically include an aerosol generator capable of converting an aerosol-generating material into an aerosol. In some cases, the generated aerosol is a condensed aerosol in which the aerosol-generating material is first vaporized and then allowed to condense into an aerosol. In other cases, the generated aerosol is an aerosol obtained from the atomization of the aerosol-generating material. This atomization can be induced mechanically, for example, by applying vibration to the aerosol-generating material to form small material particles that accompany the airflow. Alternatively, this atomization can be induced by other methods, such as electrostatically or by using pressure.

[0003] To provide customized or variable experiences to users of these aerosol delivery systems, some systems use multiple aerosol generators to produce aerosols from multiple sources, which are then delivered to the user. However, mechanisms for selectively supplying power to one of multiple aerosol generators can be complex and costly, and may involve moving parts (e.g., switches) that are prone to failure.

[0004] Various approaches sought to help solve some of these problems are described.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol providing system configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material is provided. The aerosol providing system comprises: a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; a plurality of aerosol generators electrically coupled to the variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided — the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator —; and a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to the variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter the output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal. The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal.

[0006] In some examples, the frequency filter arrangement is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to at least one of a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal. In some examples, the frequency filter arrangement includes a first frequency filter arrangement configured to allow the transmission of an output power signal of a first frequency to the first aerosol generator, and the frequency filter arrangement includes a second frequency filter arrangement configured to allow the transmission of an output power signal of a second frequency to the second aerosol generator, wherein the first frequency and the second frequency are different.

[0007] In some examples, the frequency filter arrangement includes a first filter electrically positioned between a variable power generator and a first aerosol generator, and the first filter is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to the first aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is greater than a first threshold frequency.

[0008] In some examples, the frequency filter arrangement includes a second filter electrically positioned between a variable power generator and a second aerosol generator, and the second filter is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to the second aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is lower than a second threshold frequency.

[0009] In some examples, the aerosol supply system further comprises a third aerosol generator electrically coupled to a variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied, and the frequency filter arrangement comprises a fourth filter electrically positioned between the variable power generator and the third aerosol generator, wherein the fourth filter is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to the third aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is lower than a fourth threshold frequency.

[0010] In some examples, the variable power generator includes a common output signal line, each of a plurality of aerosol generators is coupled to the common output signal line through individual branched connection lines, and a frequency filter arrangement is positioned on at least one of the branched connection lines.

[0011] In some examples, the variable power generator is configured to generate an AC output power signal having a frequency of 0 Hz to 10 kHz, 0 Hz to 5 kHz, 0 Hz to 2 kHz, or 0 to 1 kHz.

[0012] In some examples, the variable power generator is configured to generate an AC output power signal of a single but variable frequency. In some examples, the variable power generator is configured to generate an AC output power signal having multiple frequency components.

[0013] In some examples, multiple aerosol generators are configured to selectively receive an AC output power signal to generate an aerosol.

[0014] In some examples, the aerosol delivery system further comprises one or more AC-DC converters, each of which is electrically supplied between a frequency filter arrangement and one of a plurality of aerosol generators, and the AC-DC converter is configured to selectively receive an AC output power signal and convert the AC output power signal into a DC output power signal supplied to one of the plurality of aerosol generators to generate an aerosol.

[0015] In some examples, each of a plurality of aerosol generators is fluidically coupled to a source of aerosol-generating material, and when power is supplied to each individual aerosol generator, each individual aerosol generator can generate an aerosol from each individual source of aerosol-generating material. In some examples, different aerosol-generating materials are provided at each source of aerosol-generating material, and accordingly, the aerosol-generating materials differ in at least one of components, flavoring agents, percentages of flavoring agents, active ingredients, and percentages of active ingredients.

[0016] In some examples, allotropes of carbon include disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon.

[0017] In some examples, the Raman spectrum of carbon allotropes includes G and D bands, and the G band peak is at approximately 1500 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1650 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the D-band peak is approximately 1250 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1400 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the intensity of the D-band peak I D Intensity of the G band peak I G Of I D / I G is about 0.8 to about 2, preferably about 1 to about 1.8.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol providing device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material is provided. The aerosol providing device comprises: a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency—the variable power generator is configured to be electrically coupled to a plurality of aerosol generators configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied, wherein the plurality of aerosol generators includes at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator—; and a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to the variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter the output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal. The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal.

[0019] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a consumable is provided for use with an aerosol providing device to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. The consumable comprises a plurality of aerosol generators that can be electrically coupled to a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency—the plurality of aerosol generators are configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided, and the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator—and a frequency filter arrangement that can be electrically coupled to the variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter an output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal. The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal.

[0020] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a non-therapeutic method is provided for selectively activating a plurality of aerosol generators of an aerosol providing system to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, wherein the plurality of aerosol generators includes at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator. The method comprises the steps of: providing a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; generating an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; and filtering the output power signal based on the frequency of the output power signal to selectively provide the output power signal to at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator.

[0021] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol providing means configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material is provided. The aerosol providing means comprises: a variable power generator means configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; a plurality of aerosol generator means electrically coupled to the variable power generator means and configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided — the plurality of aerosol generator means comprises at least a first aerosol generator means and a second aerosol generator means —; and a frequency filter means electrically coupled to the variable power generator means, wherein the frequency filter means is configured to filter an output power signal applied to the frequency filter means based on the frequency of the output power signal. The frequency filter means is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator means and the second aerosol generator means based on the frequency of the output power signal. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0022] Various examples will now be explained in detail only as examples with reference to the attached drawings, and in the drawings: FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram (not scaled or proportioned) of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system according to the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an article to be used as part of a non-combustible aerosol providing system according to the present disclosure; FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an article to be used as part of a non-combustible aerosol providing system according to the present disclosure; FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an article to be used as part of a non-combustible aerosol providing system according to the present disclosure; FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an article to be used as part of a non-combustible aerosol providing system according to the present disclosure; FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an article to be used as part of a non-combustible aerosol providing system according to the present disclosure; FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol providing system comprising a plurality of reservoirs and a plurality of aerosol generators according to the present disclosure; FIG. 8 is a schematic circuit diagram showing an arrangement of circuit sections for selectively supplying power to one or more of a plurality of aerosol generators according to a first example of the present disclosure; FIG. 9 is a schematic circuit diagram showing an arrangement of circuit sections for selectively supplying power to one or more of a plurality of aerosol generators according to a second example of the present disclosure; FIG. 10 is a schematic circuit diagram showing an arrangement of circuit sections for selectively supplying power to one or more of a plurality of aerosol generators according to a third example of the present disclosure; FIG. 11 is a schematic circuit diagram showing an arrangement of circuit sections for selectively supplying power to one or more of a plurality of aerosol generators according to a fourth example of the present disclosure; FIG. 12 is a schematic circuit diagram showing an arrangement of circuit sections for selectively supplying power to one or more of a plurality of aerosol generators according to the fifth example of the present disclosure; FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a non-therapeutic method for selectively activating one or more of a plurality of aerosol generators according to the present disclosure; and Figure 14 shows the Raman spectrum of a carbon allotrope sample, where the x-axis is the Raman shift (cm²). -1 It corresponds to ) and the y-axis corresponds to intensity (count), and includes D-band peak, G-band peak, and 2D-band peak. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0023] Aspects and features of specific examples are discussed and described herein. Some aspects and features of specific examples may be implemented in a conventional manner and are not discussed or described in detail for the sake of brevity. Accordingly, it will be recognized that aspects and features of assemblies, articles, and non-combustible aerosol delivery systems discussed herein that are not described in detail may be implemented according to any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0024] As described above, the present disclosure relates to, but is not limited to, non-combustible aerosol providing systems and articles that generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials.

[0025] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol delivery system is a system in which the constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol delivery system (or its component) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0026] In some examples, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an electrically driven non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0027] In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a prerequisite.

[0028] In some examples, non-combustion aerosol delivery systems are aerosol-generating material heating systems and are also known as heated non-combustion systems. An example of such a system is a cigarette heating system.

[0029] In some examples, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more 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 examples, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0030] Generally, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include a non-combustion aerosol delivery device and consumables for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery device.

[0031] In some examples, the present disclosure relates to consumables comprising an aerosol-generating material and configured for use with non-combustible aerosol-giving devices. These consumables are referred to as articles throughout the present disclosure.

[0032] In some examples, a non-combustible aerosol delivery system, such as its non-combustible aerosol delivery device, may include a power source and / or a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source. The power source may be for supplying power to an article (e.g., an aerosol generator). The controller may be for controlling the article (e.g., for controlling the power supply to the article, such as to the aerosol generator).

[0033] In some examples, a non-combustible aerosol delivery system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0034] In some examples, consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol delivery device may include an aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area (which may be referred to herein as a reservoir for the aerosol-generating material), an aerosol-generating material transfer component (also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating material transfer component or an aerosol-generating material transfer component), an aerosol generator (also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating component), an aerosol-generating area (also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating chamber), a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol-modifying agent.

[0035] Throughout the following description, the terms "e-cigarette" and "electronic cigarette" may be used from time to time. However, it will be recognized that these terms may be used interchangeably with non-combustion aerosol (vapor) delivery systems as described above.

[0036] The systems described herein generally generate an inhalable aerosol by vaporizing an aerosol-generating material.

[0037] In some examples, the material to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active components, one or more flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0038] The active substance used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may be selected from, for example, functional foods, nootropics, and psychoactive agents. The active substance may occur naturally or be obtained synthetically. The active substance may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6, B12, or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or their constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may include one or more constituents, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or other plant materials.

[0039] In some examples, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some examples, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12. As noted in this specification, the active substance may comprise one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

[0040] As noted in this specification, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more plant materials or their constituents, derivatives, or extracts. As used herein, the term “plant material” comprises any material derived from plants, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husks, shells, etc. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally present in the plant material that is obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, pieces, strips, sheets, etc. Exemplary plant materials include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay leaf, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green or black tea, thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed, 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, chives. It is Carvi, Verbena, Tarragon, Geranium, Mulberry, Ginseng, Theanine, Theacrine, Maca, Ashwagandha, Damiana, Guarana, Chlorophyll, Baobab, or any combination thereof. Mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arvensis, Mentha cv, Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata cv.v.), Mentha piperita cv, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cordifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata cv and Mentha suaveolens.

[0041] In some examples, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant materials or their constituents, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant material is tobacco.

[0042] In some examples, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant materials or their constituents, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant material is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, and hemp.

[0043] In some examples, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant materials or their components, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant material is selected from rooibos and fennel.

[0044] In some examples, the substance to be delivered includes flavor.

[0045] As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavoring agent” refer to materials that may be used to produce a desired taste, aroma, or other somatosensory sensation in products for adult consumers, where permitted by local regulations. These are naturally occurring flavoring ingredients, plant ingredients, extracts of plant ingredients, synthetically obtained ingredients, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white magnolia leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruits, 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, kart, Nasoir, 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, pimento, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay leaf, mate, orange peel, rose, tea such as green 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, chives, Carbine, Verbena, Tarragon, Limonene, Thymol, Camphen), Flavor enhancers, Bitter taste receptor blockers,They may include sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant materials, or breath fresheners. These may be imitation, synthetic, or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, e.g., liquids such as oils, solids such as powders, or gases.

[0046] In some examples, the flavor includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some examples, the flavor includes flavor components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits, and / or red berry. In some examples, the flavor includes eugenol. In some examples, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some examples, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from cannabis.

[0047] In some examples, flavors may include sensates intended to achieve a somatosensory sensation, typically chemically induced, perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve) in addition to or instead of aroma or taste nerves, and may include agents that provide heating, cooling, tingling, or numbing effects. Suitable heat-effect agents may be vanillyl ethyl ether, but are not limited thereto, and suitable coolants may be eucoliptol, WS-3, but are not limited thereto.

[0048] An aerosol-generating material is a material capable of generating an aerosol when, for example, heated, irradiated, or supplied with energy in any other way. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a liquid or gel, for example, which may or may not contain an active substance and / or flavoring agent.

[0049] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavors, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0050] The aerosol-forming material may comprise one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol-forming 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, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0051] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0052] As used herein, the term “consumable” refers to an article comprising or composed of an aerosol-generating material, in whole or in part, intended to be consumed during use by a user. The consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. The consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol upon use. The heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor. The consumable may be suitable for holding (or containing) the aerosol-generating material. In this way, the consumable may hold (or contain) the aerosol-generating material, but is not required to do so.

[0053] As used herein, the term “susceptor” refers to a material capable of being heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically conductive material, so that the penetration of a changing magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, so that the penetration of a changing magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a changing magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0054] As used herein, the term “component” is used to refer to a part, section, unit, module, assembly, or similar of an electronic cigarette or similar device that may possibly contain several smaller parts or elements within an external housing or wall. An electronic cigarette may be formed or constructed from one or more such components, and the components may be removable or detachably connected to one another, or may be permanently joined together during manufacturing to define the entire electronic cigarette. The present disclosure is applicable to systems comprising two components configured as a device / control unit having a battery for providing power to operate an element for generating vapor from the aerosol-generating material, and a consumable / article component (also referred to herein as a cartridge or cartomizer) that is detachably connected to one another and, for example, may hold an aerosol-generating material. (But is not limited thereto).

[0055] An aerosol modifier is generally a substance located downstream of the aerosol generation region and is configured to modify the generated aerosol, for example, by altering the taste, flavor, acidity, or other properties of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier may be provided to an aerosol modifier release component operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier.

[0056] The aerosol modifier may be, for example, an additive or an adsorbent. The aerosol modifier may include, for example, one or more of flavoring agents, coloring agents, water, and carbon adsorbents. The aerosol modifier may be, for example, a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol modifier may be in the form of a powder, thread, or granules. The aerosol modifier may not contain a filter material.

[0057] An aerosol generator (or aerosol generating component) is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some examples, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to apply thermal energy to the aerosol-generating material, thereby releasing one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to apply one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy to the aerosol-generating material.

[0058] FIG. 1 is a highly schematic drawing (not scaled or proportional) of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system (10), such as an e-cigarette. The aerosol delivery system (10) generally has a cylindrical shape and extends along a longitudinal axis indicated by a dashed line and comprises two main components: a control or power component or section (20) (which may be referred to herein as "device") and a cartridge assembly or section (30) (which may be referred to herein as "article," "consumable," "cartomizer," or "cartridge") that operates as a vapor or aerosol generating component.

[0059] The article (30) comprises a storage compartment (also referred to herein as “aerosol-generating material storage area” or “storage area”) (3) containing an aerosol-generating material comprising a liquid formulation (e.g.) from which an aerosol is to be generated. The liquid formulation may or may not contain nicotine. For example, the aerosol-generating material may contain about 1 to 3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, with the remainder being approximately propylene glycol, and possibly may also contain other components such as water or flavoring agents. The storage compartment (3) has the form of a storage tank, that is, a container or receptacle in which the aerosol-generating material can be stored so that the aerosol-generating material can move freely and flow (if liquid) within the limits of the container or receptacle. Alternatively, the storage compartment (3) may contain a certain amount of absorbent material, such as cotton wool or glass fiber, that holds the aerosol-generating material within a porous structure. The storage compartment (3) may be sealed after filling during manufacturing so that the aerosol-generating material can be disposed of after consumption, or may have an inlet port or other opening into which new aerosol-generating material can be added.

[0060] In this example, the article (30) also includes an electric aerosol generator (4) located outside the storage compartment (3) to generate an aerosol by vaporizing the aerosol-generating material. In many examples, the aerosol generator is a heating element (heater) that is heated by the passage of an electric current (through resistance or induction heating) to raise the temperature of the aerosol-generating material until it evaporates. An aerosol-generating material transfer component (not shown in FIG. 1), such as a wick or other porous element, may be provided to transfer the aerosol-generating material from the storage compartment (3) to the aerosol generator (4). The aerosol-generating material transfer component may have one or more parts located inside the storage compartment (3) to absorb the aerosol-generating material and transfer it to other parts of the aerosol-generating material transfer component that come into contact with the aerosol generator (4) by wick action or capillary action. This aerosol-generating material is vaporized accordingly and replaced with a new aerosol-generating material transferred to the aerosol generator (4) by the aerosol-generating material transfer component.

[0061] A combination of a heater and a wick, or other arrangements of parts performing the same or similar functions, are sometimes referred to as a nebulizer or a nebulizer assembly. Various designs are possible, and in these designs, the parts may be arranged differently compared to the highly schematic representation in FIG. 1. For example, the wick may be a completely separate element from the aerosol generator.

[0062] In some examples, the aerosol-generating material transfer component (4) may be formed at least partially from one or more slots, tubes, or channels between the storage compartment (3) and the aerosol generator (4) that are narrow enough to support capillary action for drawing source liquid from the storage compartment (3) and transferring it for vaporization. Generally, the atomizer may be considered to be an aerosol generator (4) capable of generating vapor from the aerosol-generating material transferred thereto, and an aerosol-generating material transfer component capable of transferring or transferring liquid from the storage compartment (3) or a similar liquid reservoir to the aerosol generator by capillary force.

[0063] In some examples, the aerosol generator forms part of an airflow channel through an electronic cigarette / system or is located at least partially within an aerosol generating chamber fluidly coupled thereto. Vapor generated by the aerosol generator is released into this chamber, and as air passes through the chamber and flows over and around the aerosol generator, the generated vapor is collected and condensed to form the required aerosol.

[0064] Returning to FIG. 1, the article (30) also includes a mouthpiece (35) having an opening or air outlet through which a user can inhale an aerosol generated by an aerosol generator (4) and delivered through an airflow channel.

[0065] The power component (or device) (20) includes a rechargeable power source or cell (5) (e.g., "battery") to provide power to the electrical components of the e-cigarette (10), particularly the aerosol generator (4). Additionally, there is a printed circuit board (28) and / or other electronic devices or circuits for generally controlling the aerosol supply system (10). The control electronic devices / circuits enable the aerosol generating element (4) to be powered by the battery (5) in response to a signal from an air pressure sensor or air flow sensor (not shown) that detects air flowing along an airflow channel through one or more air inlets (not shown) in the wall of the device (20) when vapor is required, for example, during inhalation to the system (10). When the aerosol generator (4) receives power from the cell (5), the aerosol generator (4) vaporizes the aerosol-generating material delivered from the storage compartment (3) to generate an aerosol, which is then inhaled by the user through the opening of the mouthpiece (35). When the user inhales on the mouthpiece (35), the aerosol is transported to the mouthpiece (35) along an airflow channel (not shown) connecting the air inlet to the air outlet. The airflow path through the aerosol delivery system (10) is thus defined from the air inlet(s) (which may or may not be provided to the device (20)) to the atomizer and to the air outlet of the mouthpiece (35). In use, the direction of airflow along this airflow path is from the air inlet to the air outlet, so the atomizer can be described as being positioned downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the air outlet.

[0066] In this particular example, the device (20) and the article (30) are separate parts that are detachable from each other by separation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The components (20, 30) are joined together when the device (10) is in use by cooperative interlocking elements (21, 31) (e.g., screws, magnetic or bayonet fittings) that provide a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the device (20) and the article (30). However, this is merely an exemplary arrangement, and various components may be distributed differently between the device (20) and the article (30), and other components and elements may be included. The two components (20, 30) may be connected end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration as in FIG. 1, or connected in a different configuration such as a parallel arrangement. Any one or both of the components (20, 30) may be intended to be discarded and replaced when depleted (e.g., when the reservoir is empty or the battery is discharged), or may be intended for multiple uses made possible by operations such as reservoir refilling, battery recharging, or atomizer replacement. Alternatively, the aerosol delivery system (10) may be a single device (disposable or refillable / rechargeable) that cannot be separated into two or more parts, in which case all components are contained within a single body or housing. Examples of the present disclosure are applicable to these configurations and any other configurations recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the type of aerosol generator that can be utilized in the spray portion of the aerosol supply system (10) (i.e., the portion configured to generate vapor from the source liquid) is electrically conductive (resistive) and porous, thereby combining the functions of heating and liquid transfer. That is, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator (4) can both heat the liquid aerosol-generating material and transfer the liquid aerosol-generating material (e.g., wicking action via capillary action). Such an aerosol generator (4) may exist in combination with a separate aerosol-generating material transfer component (e.g., wick material), or such an aerosol generator (4) may replace such an aerosol-generating material transfer component. Note that the reference to electrically conductive (resistive) here refers to components that have the ability to generate heat in response to the flow of an electric current within them. Such a flow may be imparted through so-called resistance heating or induction heating. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator (4) may be in a sheet form, that is, a flat shape in which the thickness is several times smaller than the length or width. It is possible for the flat aerosol generator to define a curved surface, and in such cases, the mention that the flat aerosol generator forms a plane means a virtual flat plane that forms an optimally fitting plane through the component.

[0068] In some embodiments, the aerosol generator (4) may be formed of or include an allotrope of carbon. The aerosol generator (4) (e.g., its allotrope of carbon) may include pores and / or gaps of appropriate size to provide capillary force for drawing up an aerosol-generating material (e.g., liquid) by wick action. Thus, the aerosol generator (4) (e.g., its allotrope of carbon) may also be considered porous to provide absorption and distribution of the aerosol-generating material (e.g., liquid). Additionally, the presence of pores and / or gaps may imply that air can penetrate through the aerosol generator (4) (e.g., if they are not blocked or saturated with liquid). Furthermore, the allotrope of carbon of the aerosol generator may be configured to be electrically conductive and thus suitable for resistance heating.

[0069] An aerosol generator (e.g., planar and / or sheet type) may be arranged within a non-combustible aerosol supply system (e.g., electronic cigarettes), so that the aerosol generator is located within an aerosol generating chamber that forms part of an airflow channel. The aerosol generator may be oriented within the chamber such that the airflow through the chamber flows in a surface direction, that is, substantially parallel to the plane of the aerosol generator. Examples of such a configuration can be found in WO2010 / 045670 and WO2010 / 045671, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Air can thus flow over the aerosol generator (e.g., an allotrope of its carbon) to collect vapor. Thus, aerosol generation is effectively achieved. In alternative examples, the aerosol generator may be oriented within the chamber such that the airflow through the chamber flows in a direction substantially transverse to the surface direction, that is, substantially orthogonal to the plane of the aerosol generator. Examples of such configurations can be found in WO2018 / 211252, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0070] An aerosol generator (e.g., an allotrope of its carbon) can have high porosity. High porosity can ensure that the heat generated by the aerosol generator is primarily used to evaporate the liquid, and high efficiency can be achieved. Porosity exceeding 50% can be assumed. In one example, the porosity of the aerosol generator is 50% or more, 60% or more, or 70% or more.

[0071] The aerosol generator can form a generally flat structure including a first surface and a second surface. The generally flat structure can take the form of any two-dimensional shape, such as, for example, a circle, a semicircle, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, and / or a polygon. The aerosol generator can have a uniform thickness.

[0072] When an aerosol generator (e.g., an allotrope of its carbon) is formed of an electrically resistive material, an electric current is allowed to flow through the aerosol generator (e.g., an allotrope of its carbon) to generate heat (so-called Joule heating). In this regard, the electrical resistance of the aerosol generator (e.g., an allotrope of its carbon) can be appropriately selected. For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 2 ohms or less, e.g., 1.8 ohms or less, e.g., 1.7 ohms or less, e.g., 1.6 ohms or less, e.g., 1.5 ohms or less, e.g., 1.4 ohms or less, e.g., 1.3 ohms or less, e.g., 1.2 ohms or less, e.g., 1.1 ohms or less, e.g., 1.0 ohms or less, e.g., 0.9 ohms or less, e.g., 0.8 ohms or less, e.g., 0.7 ohms or less, e.g., 0.6 ohms or less, e.g., 0.5 ohms or less. Parameters of the aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope), such as material, thickness, width, length, porosity, etc., may be selected to provide the desired resistance. In this regard, relatively low resistance facilitates higher power dissipation from the power source, which can be advantageous for generating high aerosolization rates. On the other hand, the resistance should not be so low as to compromise the integrity of the aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope). For example, the resistance may not be lower than 0.5 ohms.

[0073] For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 1 ohm to 1000 ohms. For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 1 ohm to 200 ohms. For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 10 ohms to 150 ohms. For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 20 ohms to 100 ohms. For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 30 ohms to 70 ohms. For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 40 to 60 ohms. For example, an aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope) may have an electrical resistance of 45 to 55 ohms. In this regard, relatively low resistance facilitates higher power consumption from the power source, which may be advantageous for generating a high aerosolization rate. On the other hand, the resistance must not be so low as to compromise the integrity of the aerosol generator (e.g., its carbon allotrope). For example, the resistance may not be lower than 0.5 ohms.

[0074] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator (e.g., an allotrope of its carbon) has a resistance of 1 ohm to 100 ohms. In one embodiment, the laser-induced substrate has a resistance of 1 ohm to 25 ohms. In one embodiment, the laser-induced substrate has a resistance of 1 ohm to 15 ohms.

[0075] Sheet resistance (Rs) is measured in units of Ohm.sq and is generally used to describe the resistance of essentially two-dimensional (2D) surfaces. In some examples, the Rs of allotropes of carbon is about 10 Ohm.sq to about 750 Ohm.sq. In some examples, the Rs of allotropes of carbon is about 10 Ohm.sq to about 500 Ohm.sq. In some examples, the Rs of allotropes of carbon is about 10 Ohm.sq to about 250 Ohm.sq. In some examples, the Rs of allotropes of carbon is about 10 Ohm.sq to about 100 Ohm.sq. In some examples, the Rs of allotropes of carbon is about 10 Ohm.sq to about 75 Ohm.sq. In some examples, the Rs of allotropes of carbon is about 10 Ohm.sq to about 50 Ohm.sq. In some examples, the Rs of the carbon allotrope is about 10 Ohm.sq to about 25 Ohm.sq. In some embodiments, the sheet resistance of the carbon allotrope is within ±10%, ±9%, ±8%, ±7%, ±6%, ±5%, or ±4% of the Ohm.sq values ​​listed above.

[0076] FIG. 2 shows in more detail an exemplary arrangement of articles (100) for use with, for example, the aerosol providing device (20) of FIG. 1. In particular, the article (100) comprises a storage unit (101), a housing (109), and an optional aerosol generator support (129) (including a conduit (130)), which together form an internal volume (104) in which an aerosol-generating material (200) can be stored, and an aerosol generator (102) which is, in this example, an allotrope of carbon (103), an optional sealant (125) (including an opening (126)) between the aerosol generator support (129) and the allotrope of carbon (103), an optional electrical insulating material (108) (including apertures (132)) provided between the sealant (125) and the allotrope of carbon (103), and electrical contacts (123) in which position and electrical contact with the allotrope of carbon (103) are maintained through retaining members (124).

[0077] In a broad sense, the general operating principle of the article (100) is as follows. An aerosol-generating material (200) stored in an internal volume (104) can flow from the volume (104) of the storage (101) to an aerosol generator (102) / carbon allotrope (103) provided in fluid communication with the storage (101). In some embodiments such as in FIG. 2, this may involve the aerosol-generating material (200) flowing from the volume (104) of the storage (101) to the carbon allotrope (103) through at least one conduit (130) of the aerosol generator support (129), and / or through at least one opening (126) of the seal (125), and / or through at least one aperture (132) of the electrical insulation substrate (108). A power source, such as the battery (5) of the device (20), can power the aerosol generator (102) to supply energy (e.g., heating) to the aerosol generator (102), thereby enabling the aerosol generator (102) to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material (200). The generated aerosol can be released into an environment (105) outside the storage (101), where it can be carried along by an airflow passing through / around the aerosol generator (102).

[0078] FIGS. 3 and 4 schematically illustrate two different arrangements of a reservoir (101) containing an allotrope (103) of carbon. These figures will be described in more detail below in the relevant sections.

[0079] The aerosol generator (102) is intended to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material (200), and it will be understood that any suitable component capable of generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material (200) may be used as the aerosol generator (102). The aerosol generator (102) may be configured to aerosolize the aerosol-generating material (200) in any suitable manner. For example, the aerosol generator (102) may be configured to increase the temperature (or a portion of the temperature) to vaporize the aerosol-generating material (200).

[0080] In the described embodiment, the aerosol generator (102) comprises an allotrope of carbon (103). At least a portion of the allotrope of carbon (103) can generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material (200) by heating. In some examples, heating of the allotrope of carbon (103) can be achieved by passing an electric current through the allotrope of carbon (103) with a current amount sufficient to cause vaporization of the aerosol-generating material (200). For example, a pair of electric contacts (123) may be provided to make electrical contact with regions of the allotrope of carbon (103), so that when current is applied, an electric current can pass through the allotrope of carbon (103) between the electric contacts (123). In other examples, the carbon allotrope (103) may be a susceptor and configured to be inductively heated (e.g., by approaching a magnetic field generator, such as a driving coil, which generates a changing magnetic field penetrating the carbon allotrope (103) when an AC current is applied, thereby causing inductive heating of the carbon allotrope (103). Either the article (100) or the aerosol providing device may include a magnetic field generator.

[0081] The carbon allotrope (103) may be porous or otherwise may contain a plurality of interconnected pores, cells, or gaps. The carbon allotrope (103) may contain pores. For example, the carbon allotrope (103) may be porous. The carbon allotrope (103) may be permeable, e.g., liquid and / or gas permeable. The pores or gaps allow aerosol-generating material to be transported through the carbon allotrope (103). For example, the pores or gaps may allow aerosol-generating material to flow from a surface of the carbon allotrope (103) facing the volume (104) inside the reservoir (101) to an opposite surface of the carbon allotrope (103) facing the environment (105) outside the reservoir (101). In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may move laterally within the carbon allotrope (103).

[0082] Allotropes of carbon (103) can be monolithic materials.

[0083] The carbon allotrope (103) may have a heating surface. The heating surface may be partially or completely exposed. When in use, an aerosol may be released from the heating surface.

[0084] The carbon allotrope (103) may include one or more parts (106, 107). For example, FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment in which the carbon allotrope (103) includes a plurality of parts (106, 107). A part (106) of the carbon allotrope (103) may be referred to as an aerosol generating part (106). The aerosol generating part (106) may include a heating surface. The aerosol generating part (106) may be configured to reach a temperature for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material (200). That is, the aerosol generating part (106) is a part of the carbon allotrope (103) configured to be supplied with energy (e.g., heated to a sufficient temperature) when used to induce the generation of an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material (200). The aerosol-generating portion (106) (e.g., its surface) is exposed to the environment (105) outside the storage (101), and thus aerosols can be generated in the environment (105) outside the storage (101), particularly near the exposed surface of the aerosol-generating portion (106). A portion (107) of the carbon allotrope (103) may be referred to as a transport portion (107). The transport portion (107) is configured to transport an aerosol-generating material (200) (e.g., within the storage (101)) to the aerosol-generating portion (106) of the carbon allotrope (103). The transport portion (107) may be exposed to the volume (104) of the storage (101). The transport portion (107) may extend from the volume (104) inside the storage (101) to the aerosol-generating portion (106). When in use, the transport portion (107) of the carbon allotrope (103) may not reach a temperature sufficient to cause vaporization of the aerosol-generating material (200). Therefore, aerosol generation may be largely limited to the aerosol-generating portion (106).

[0085] The surface area of ​​the aerosol generating portion (106) exposed to the environment (105) outside the storage (101) may be larger than the surface area of ​​the transport portion (107) exposed inside the storage (101).

[0086] The carbon allotrope (103) can be formed as a single unit. That is, the carbon allotrope (103) can be formed as a single piece (which may include multiple parts as discussed above). When the carbon allotrope (103) is formed as a single unit, it has been found that the carbon allotrope (103) is robust and efficient to manufacture and assemble compared to a carbon allotrope formed from separate pieces.

[0087] The carbon allotrope (103) provides an aerosol generator (102) that is particularly effective in non-combustion aerosol delivery systems. The carbon allotrope (103) can be considered to provide a carbonaceous surface (e.g., an aerosol generating portion (106)) that distributes and generates aerosol from an aerosol-generating material (200) when in use. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that when the carbon allotrope (103) is heated to a temperature for generating aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, the carbonaceous surface may have high surface free energy and thus high wettability (and a low contact angle). In this way, when the carbon allotrope (103) is heated to a temperature for generating aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, a thin layer of the aerosol-generating material may be uniformly distributed over the carbonaceous surface of the carbon allotrope (103) and efficiently aerosolized. Additionally, the carbon allotrope (103) has a high power density and low thermal mass, and compared to materials where the aerosol-generating material cannot be formed as thinly over the entire surface, a small amount of aerosol-generating material can be formed thinly over the entire given surface area of ​​the carbon allotrope (103). This provides efficient energy transfer to the aerosol-generating material (200) when in use.

[0088] The carbon allotrope (103) may be formed into a foam. "Carbon allotrope formed into a foam" will be understood to mean that the carbon allotrope (103) itself is a foam. The foam may include a foam structure and a plurality of cells. It will be understood that the carbon allotrope forms a foam structure, and the foam structure defines a plurality of cells. The foam structure may define a plurality of cells. Some of the plurality of cells may be interconnected. The foam may be an open-cell foam, such as a network foam. The foam will be understood to be a solid foam (e.g., at least 20°C to 350°C and 101325 Pa). The carbon allotrope (103) may include a capillary structure. For example, the foam may include a capillary structure.

[0089] It has been found that an allotrope of carbon (103) formed as foam provides a particularly effective aerosol generator (102). Without being bound by theory, it is believed that when hot spots (localized areas of increased temperature that may occur when a portion of a heated aerosol generator dries out during use) are formed, the foam (which may have high thermal conductivity and high electrical conductivity) can effectively dissipate heat, reduce temperature fluctuations, and reduce the severity of the hot spots. Accordingly, the aerosol generator can operate at high power levels with reduced risk of hot spots causing damage to the aerosol generator. Additionally, the foam can adapt to thermal expansion during use. As such, the foam can be resistant to heat-induced degradation during use. Furthermore, it has been found that the foam can facilitate reduced battery throughput and / or extended battery life. Additionally, it has been found that the foam can reduce battery size requirements and thus provide improved packaging efficiency in terms of, for example, cost and space requirements. Additionally, the foam can facilitate the rapid volatilization of the aerosol-generating material (200), which can improve the user experience by reducing the time it takes to generate an aerosol in response to a first inhalation ("first puff") by the user. Additionally, the foam can facilitate consistency between individual inhalations ("consistency between puffs") by the user. The use of foam can also provide certain user experience benefits associated with conventional factory-made cigarettes.

[0090] When the carbon allotrope (103) is formed into a foam, the carbon allotrope (103) may be referred to as "carbon foam." It will be understood that carbon foam includes, for example, graphite foam, graphene foam, or any other carbon-based foam. It will be understood that various methods, including (but not limited to) arc discharge, laser ablation, laser induction, laser-induced pyrolysis, high-pressure carbon monoxide disproportionation, and chemical vapor deposition, may be used to create the foam. In the examples of the drawings, laser induction was used to create the foam (103). When the carbon allotrope (103) is formed into a foam, the foam may include a plurality of layers. Each layer may include or be composed of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice structure, such as a honeycomb lattice structure.

[0091] The allotrope of carbon (103) may comprise carbon structured to contain multiple carbon-carbon bonds located in the same plane. For example, the allotrope of carbon (103) may comprise graphite. When the allotrope of carbon (103) comprises graphite, the allotrope of carbon (103) comprises multiple stacked carbon atomic layers, wherein the carbon atoms of each layer are bonded to three adjacent carbon atoms within the layer, and each bond is located in the same plane to form a hexagonal lattice structure. Non-covalent bonds exist between the stacked layers. Thus, graphite comprises multiple stacked carbon layers, and the carbon layers are parallel to each other. There are two forms of graphite: alpha graphite in which the layers are ABA stacked; and beta graphite in which the layers are ABC stacked.

[0092] It is also possible for the carbon allotrope (103) to include graphene. For example, the carbon allotrope (103) may be graphene. If the carbon allotrope (103) is graphene (or includes graphene), a single layer of carbon atoms, i.e., a one-atom-thick layer of carbon is arranged so that the carbon atoms form a hexagonal lattice structure. It has been found that graphene provides an effective aerosol generator (102). Advantageously, when hot spots (localized areas of increased temperature that may occur when a part of the aerosol generator heated during use dries out) are formed, the high thermal and electrical conductivity of graphene allows the graphene to effectively dissipate heat, reduce temperature fluctuations, and reduce the severity of the hot spots. Accordingly, the aerosol generator (102) can be operated at high power levels with reduced risk of hot spots causing damage to the aerosol generator (102). Additionally, graphene can be elastic and thus adapt to thermal expansion during use (e.g., of the electrical insulating substrate (108); discussed below). Thus, the aerosol generator (102) can be resistant to degradation due to the difference in thermal expansion coefficients between the graphene and the electrical insulating substrate (e.g.). Furthermore, it has been found that the use of graphene can reduce battery throughput and thus extend battery life. Additionally, the use of graphene can reduce battery size requirements and thus provide improved packaging efficiency in terms of, for example, cost and space requirements. Moreover, the use of graphene can facilitate the rapid volatilization of the aerosol-generating material, which can improve the user experience by reducing the time it takes to generate an aerosol in response to the first inhalation ("first puff") by the user. Furthermore, the use of graphene can facilitate consistency between individual inhalations ("puff-to-puff consistency") by the user. The use of graphene can also provide certain user experience benefits associated with conventional factory-made cigarettes.

[0093] If the carbon allotrope (103) includes graphene, more than one graphene layer may exist. If more than one graphene layer (103) exists, at least two of the graphene (103) layers may be non-parallel to each other. “Non-parallel” means that a virtual plane passing through one graphene (103) layer (or a virtual optimal-fit plane passing through a non-planar graphene (103) layer) is non-parallel to a virtual plane passing through another graphene (103) layer (or a virtual optimal-fit plane passing through another non-planar graphene (103) layer). In use, the graphene (103) layers are electrically connected to form a current path. By providing non-parallel graphene layers, a porous graphene structure may be provided. The combination of porosity and the low surface energy of graphene at typical aerosolization temperatures allows the aerosol-generating material to be effectively distributed not only on the outermost surface of the graphene but also throughout the entire bulk structure of the graphene. Substantially, the aerosol-generating material can be provided in close contact with the heated material, which has an increased surface area provided by the graphene layers. This provides efficient and effective aerosolization performance. For example, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 8, or at least 10 of the graphene (103) layers may be non-parallel to each other. If more than one graphene (103) layer is present, at least 2 of the graphene (103) layers may be parallel to each other. For example, the allotrope of carbon (103) may be double-layered graphene.

[0094] Where the allotrope of carbon (103) includes graphene, the allotrope of carbon (e.g., one or more layers of graphene) may include or be in the form of three-dimensional graphene (which may be referred to as porous graphene or laser-induced graphene (LIG)). Three-dimensional graphene may be considered as one or more graphene sheets (or layers) folded (e.g., on top of each other) to form a three-dimensional structure. Without being bound by theory, interatomic bonds in three-dimensional graphene are formed mainly between sp2-hybridized orbitals, and the main local coordination of carbon atoms in three-dimensional graphene is similar to that in two-dimensional graphene, so two-dimensional and three-dimensional graphene are considered to have similar electronic properties. Graphene foam (described below) may be considered an example of three-dimensional graphene.

[0095] In examples comprising one or more graphene (103) layers, the layers or layers may be provided in various forms. For example, one or more graphene (103) layers may be formed into a plurality of three-dimensional structures. The three-dimensional graphene structures may be selected from cubes, cuboids, cones, cylinders (e.g., tubes), spheres, pyramids, and / or prisms. It will be understood that various methods, including (but not limited to) arc discharge, laser ablation, high-pressure carbon monoxide disproportionation, and chemical vapor deposition, may be used to create three-dimensional graphene structures.

[0096] In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon (103) comprises disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon. In some preferred embodiments, the allotrope of carbon (103) is selected from the group comprising disordered graphite, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon (103) comprises disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon and / or nanocrystalline graphite. In some preferred embodiments, the allotrope of carbon (103) is selected from the group comprising disordered graphite, amorphous carbon, nanocrystalline graphite, or a combination thereof. The Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon (103) includes a G band and a D band. The Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon (103) also includes a 2D band.

[0097] In some embodiments, the Raman spectrum of the carbon allotrope (103) is about 1500 cm⁻¹ -1 to about 1650 cm -1 It includes a G band peak within the Raman shift range. In these examples, the Raman spectrum of the carbon allotrope (103) is about 1250 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1400 cm -1 The D-band peak may be included within the Raman shift range. In these examples, the Raman spectrum of the carbon allotrope (103) is about 2600 cm⁻¹ -1 to about 2750 cm -1 It may include 2D band peaks within the Raman shift range.

[0098] For example, in some examples, the Raman spectrum of an allotrope of carbon (103) is about 1550 cm⁻¹ -1 to about 1590 cm -1 It includes a G band peak within the Raman shift range. In these examples, the Raman spectrum of the carbon allotrope (103) is about 1310 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1340 cm -1The D-band peak may be included within the Raman shift range. In these examples, the Raman spectrum of the carbon allotrope (103) is approximately 2620 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 2680 cm -1 It may include 2D band peaks within the Raman shift range.

[0099] D-band peak intensity I D Intensity of the G band peak I G Non-I regarding D / I G It can be about 0.8 to about 2. Non-I D / I G It can be about 0.9 to about 1.9. Non-I D / I G It can be about 1 to about 1.8.

[0100] The G band peak is about 30 cm -1 to about 100 cm -1 It can have a Full Width at Half-Mount (FWHM). The G band peak is approximately 30 cm. -1 to about 70 cm -1 It can have an FWHM. The 2D band can follow a Gaussian curve model or a Lorentz curve model.

[0101] Any of the above features regarding the Raman spectrum may be combined. For example, in some examples, the Raman spectrum of an allotrope of carbon (103) includes a G band and a D band, and the G band peak is about 1500 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1650 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the D-band peak is approximately 1250 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1400 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the intensity of the D-band peak I D Intensity of the G band peak I G Of I D / I Gis about 0.8 to about 2. For example, in some examples, the Raman spectrum of an allotrope of carbon (103) includes a G band and a D band, and the G band peak is about 1550 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1590 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the D-band peak is approximately 1310 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1340 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the intensity of the D-band peak I D Intensity of the G band peak I G Of I D / I G It is about 1 to about 1.8.

[0102] For example, in some examples, the allotrope of carbon (103) is porous. For example, in some examples, the allotrope of carbon (103) is formed as foam. The allotrope of carbon (103) is electrically conductive.

[0103] In this specification, Raman spectra may be measured using Raman microspectroscopy. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using a laser wavelength of 638 nm. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using a grating of 1800 grooves / mm. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy may be performed with a laser power of 10.9 mW. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using an acquisition time of 5 seconds. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using 20 accumulations. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy may be performed with a confocal pinhole of 300 μm. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy may be performed at approximately 1000 cm⁻¹ -1 to about 3000 cm -1It can be performed in the wavelength range. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy can be performed with a microscope objective lens of 50x LWD (long working distance) and 0.8 NA (numerical aperture). In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy can be performed using a Horiba Xplora Plus Raman Microspectrometer. In this specification, Raman microspectroscopy can be performed at 21°C. In this specification, the carbon allotrope (103) applied to Raman microspectroscopy may be in an unused state. That is, the carbon allotrope (103) has not been used to generate an aerosol and / or has not been heated to typical aerosolization temperatures (after the production of the carbon allotrope (103)).

[0104] The allotrope of carbon (103) will be understood to be thermally conductive. The allotrope of carbon (103) is 100 Wm -1 K -1 Up to 5500 Wm -1 K -1 It can have a thermal conductivity of . The allotrope of carbon (103) is 100 Wm -1 K -1 to 4000 Wm -1 K -1 It can have a thermal conductivity of . The allotrope of carbon (103) is 100 Wm -1 K -1 to 2000 Wm -1 K -1 It can have a thermal conductivity of 150 Wm -1 K -1 to 1000 Wm -1 K -1 It can have a thermal conductivity of 180 Wm. An allotrope of carbon (103) has a thermal conductivity of 180 Wm -1 K -1 Up to 700 Wm -1 K -1 It can have a thermal conductivity of 200 Wm -1 K -1 up to 500 Wm -1 K-1 It can have thermal conductivity.

[0105] It will be understood that the allotrope of carbon (103) is electrically conductive. The allotrope of carbon (103) is 1 Sm -1 Up to 2.5×10 6 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of . The allotrope of carbon (103) is 100 Sm -1 Up to 1.0×10 6 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of 200 Sm. An allotrope of carbon (103) is 200 Sm -1 to 100,000 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of 400 Sm -1 to 50,000 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of 500 Sm. An allotrope of carbon (103) is 500 Sm -1 to 10,000 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of 600 Sm. An allotrope of carbon (103) is 600 Sm -1 to 5000 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of 800 Sm. An allotrope of carbon (103) is 800 Sm -1 to 3000 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of 900 Sm. An allotrope of carbon (103) is 900 Sm -1 to 1300 Sm -1 It can have electrical conductivity.

[0106] In examples, the allotrope of carbon (103) is 200 Wm -1 K -1 up to 500 Wm -1 K -1 thermal conductivity of and 900 Sm -1 to 1300 Sm -1 It can have an electrical conductivity of 200 Wm -1 K -1 up to 500 Wm -1 K -1thermal conductivity of and 900 Sm -1 to 1300 Sm -1 It can have electrical conductivity.

[0107] The carbon allotrope (103) may be elastically deformable. The carbon allotrope (103) may have non-linear elasticity.

[0108] The carbon allotrope (103), or a portion of the carbon allotrope (103), may be in a sheet-like form. For example, the aerosol-generating portion (106) may be in a sheet-like form. The carbon allotrope (103), or a portion of the carbon allotrope (103), may be substantially planar. For example, the aerosol-generating portion (106) may be substantially planar.

[0109] The thickness of the carbon allotrope (103) may be understood to refer to the range of the carbon allotrope (103) measured orthogonally between the outer surface of the carbon allotrope (103) facing the environment (105) outside the reservoir (101) and the outer surface of the carbon allotrope (103) opposite to it. Alternatively, the thickness of the carbon allotrope (103) may be understood to refer to the range of the carbon allotrope (103) measured orthogonally to the planar or lateral range of the carbon allotrope (103) between the outer surfaces of the carbon allotrope (103). If the carbon allotrope (103) (or the aerosol generating portion (106)) contains internal cells or pores, these are effectively ignored in the thickness measurement. Those skilled in the art will recognize suitable methods for measuring the thickness of the carbon allotrope (103), such as electron microscopy.

[0110] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 0.345 nm to 500 μm, 0.345 nm to 400 μm, 0.345 nm to 300 μm, 0.345 nm to 200 μm, 0.345 nm to 100 μm, 0.345 nm to 80 μm, or 0.345 nm to 60 μm.

[0111] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 1 μm to 500 μm, 1 μm to 400 μm, 1 μm to 300 μm, 1 μm to 200 μm, 1 μm to 100 μm, 1 μm to 80 μm, or 1 μm to 60 μm.

[0112] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 10 μm to 500 μm, 10 μm to 400 μm, 10 μm to 300 μm, 10 μm to 200 μm, 10 μm to 100 μm, 10 μm to 80 μm, or 10 μm to 60 μm.

[0113] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 20 μm to 500 μm, 20 μm to 400 μm, 20 μm to 300 μm, 20 μm to 200 μm, 20 μm to 100 μm, 20 μm to 80 μm, or 20 μm to 60 μm.

[0114] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 30 μm to 500 μm, 30 μm to 400 μm, 30 μm to 300 μm, 30 μm to 200 μm, 30 μm to 100 μm, 30 μm to 80 μm, 30 μm to 60 μm, or 30 μm to 50 μm.

[0115] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 50 μm to 500 μm, 50 μm to 300 μm, 80 μm to 300 μm, 90 μm to 200 μm, 100 μm to 150 μm, or 120 μm to 130 μm.

[0116] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 20 μm to 150 μm, 30 μm to 120 μm, 40 μm to 110 μm, or 50 μm to 100 μm.

[0117] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a thickness of 1 μm to 50 μm, 1 μm to 20 μm, 1 μm to 10 μm, or 1 μm to 5 μm.

[0118] In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) has a thickness of about 50 μm or less. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) has a thickness of about 40 μm or less. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) has a thickness of about 30 μm or less. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) has a thickness of about 20 μm or less. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) has a thickness of about 5 μm or less.

[0119] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a length of 6 mm or less, 5 mm or less, 4 mm or less, 3 mm or less, or 2 mm or less.

[0120] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a length of at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, or at least 1.3 mm.

[0121] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a length of 0.5 mm to 6 mm, 0.5 mm to 5 mm, 1 mm to 4 mm, 1 mm to 3 mm, or 1.3 mm to 2 mm.

[0122] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a width of 6 mm or less, 5 mm or less, 4 mm or less, 3 mm or less, 2.5 mm or less, or 2.3 mm or less.

[0123] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a width of at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 1.5 mm, or at least 1.7 mm.

[0124] The carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) may have a width of 0.5 mm to 6 mm, 0.5 mm to 5 mm, 1 mm to 4 mm, 1 mm to 3 mm, 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or 1.7 mm to 2.3 mm.

[0125] In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) takes on a substantially rectangular shape (e.g., when viewed from above).

[0126] In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 0.5 mm to about 6 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 1 mm to about 4 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 2 mm to about 3.2 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 2.2 mm to about 3 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 2.4 mm to about 2.8 mm.

[0127] In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a width of about 0.5 mm to about 6 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a width of about 1 mm to about 4 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a width of about 1.4 mm to about 2.6 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a width of about 1.6 mm to about 2.2 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a width of about 1.7 mm to about 2.1 mm.

[0128] In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 0.5 mm to about 6 mm and a width of about 0.5 mm to about 6 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 1 mm to about 4 mm and a width of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 2 mm to about 3.2 mm and a width of about 1.4 mm to about 2.6 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 2.2 mm to about 3 mm and a width of about 1.6 mm to about 2.2 mm. In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) (or aerosol-generating portion (106)) has a length of about 2.4 mm to about 2.8 mm and a width of about 1.7 mm to about 2.1 mm.

[0129] The carbon allotrope (103) may not contain metal. Additionally, the aerosol generator (102) may not contain metal. For example, the aerosol generator (102) may not contain metal-containing electrical contacts. Thus, the carbon allotrope (103) and / or the aerosol generator (102) may be metal-free. The carbon allotrope (103) may be directly connected to a power source without requiring metal-containing electrical contacts as part of the carbon allotrope (103). In this way, metal emissions from the aerosol generator (102) may be reduced during use.

[0130] In some embodiments, the aerosol generator (102) may be configured to generate an aerosol such that the aerosol collection mass (ACM) is at least 2 mg. The aerosol generator (102) may be configured to generate an aerosol such that the aerosol collection mass (ACM) is at least 4 mg. The aerosol generator (102) may be configured to generate an aerosol such that the aerosol collection mass (ACM) is 20 mg or less. The aerosol generator (102) may be configured to generate an aerosol such that the aerosol collection mass (ACM) is 10 mg or less. The aerosol generator (102) may be configured to generate an aerosol such that the aerosol collection mass (ACM) is 2 mg to 10 mg. The aerosol generator (102) may be configured to generate an aerosol such that the aerosol collection mass (ACM) is 4 mg to 8 mg. In this specification, the aerosol collection mass (ACM) corresponds to the amount of aerosol collected per puff based on a puff regime of 25 puffs, and each puff has a puff volume of 55 mL, a puff duration of 3 seconds, and a puff interval of 30 seconds.

[0131] An allotrope of carbon (103) may be formed on an electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser irradiation of the electrical insulating substrate (108). In embodiments where the allotrope of carbon (103) is formed as a foam, the foam may be formed on the electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser irradiation of the electrical insulating substrate (108). Laser irradiation may include irradiating the electrical insulating substrate (108) with a laser beam, wherein the electrical insulating substrate (108) is a carbon-containing material. In examples involving laser irradiation, the electrical insulating substrate (108) may be formed of polyimide (PI). Laser irradiation may be performed in an inert environment. Laser irradiation may be performed in an ambient environment. Laser irradiation may be performed in atmospheric air (air from the Earth's atmosphere).

[0132] Accordingly, a method for forming an aerosol generator (102) may include the step of forming an allotrope of carbon (103) on an electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser irradiation, which includes irradiating the electrical insulating substrate (108) with a laser beam, wherein the electrical insulating substrate (108) is a carbon-containing material (optionally formed of polyimide (PI)), and optionally the allotrope of carbon (103) is formed of foam. Optionally, the allotrope of carbon (103) comprises disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon.

[0133] A method for forming an aerosol generator (102) may include the step of forming at least one aperture (132) that extends through an electrical insulating substrate (108). The at least one aperture (132) may be as defined herein. The at least one aperture (132) may be formed by laser irradiation of the electrical insulating substrate (108).

[0134] In some examples, the step of forming at least one aperture (132) that extends through the electrical insulating substrate (108) occurs prior to the step of forming an allotrope of carbon (103) on the electrical insulating substrate (108). The allotrope of carbon (103) may be formed on a portion of the electrical insulating substrate (108) on which the at least one aperture (132) extends. The at least one aperture (132) may extend through and / or extend the allotrope of carbon (103) or be covered (partially or completely) by the allotrope of carbon (103).

[0135] In some examples, the method of forming an aerosol generator (102) is:

[0136] (A) forming at least one aperture (132) penetrating the electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser irradiation of the electrical insulating substrate (108); and

[0137] (B) A step of forming an allotrope (103) of carbon on an electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser irradiation of the electrical insulating substrate (108), and

[0138] The electrical insulating substrate (108) is a carbon-containing material (optionally formed of polyimide (PI)), step (A) occurs prior to step (B), and at least one aperture (132) extends through the carbon allotrope (103) and / or is covered (partially or completely) by the carbon allotrope (103). Optionally, the carbon allotrope (103) is formed of foam. Optionally, the carbon allotrope (103) comprises disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon.

[0139] In some examples, the step of forming at least one aperture (132) that extends through the electrical insulating substrate (108) occurs after the step of forming an allotrope of carbon (103) on the electrical insulating substrate (108). The allotrope of carbon (103) may cover at least one aperture (132) (partially or completely).

[0140] In some examples, the method of forming an aerosol generator (102) is:

[0141] (A) a step of forming an allotrope (103) of carbon on an electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser irradiation of the electrical insulating substrate (108); and

[0142] (B) A step of forming at least one aperture (132) penetrating the electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser irradiation of the electrical insulating substrate (108), and

[0143] The electrical insulating substrate (108) is a carbon-containing material (optionally formed of polyimide (PI)), step (A) occurs prior to step (B), and the carbon allotrope (103) covers at least one aperture (132) (partially or completely). Optionally, the carbon allotrope (103) is formed of foam. Optionally, the carbon allotrope (103) comprises disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon.

[0144] It is believed that, without being bound by theory, energy from a laser beam can form a porous conductive carbon-containing material (103) having a porous (e.g., foam) structure from an electrical insulating substrate (108) (e.g., PI). It should be understood that various properties of the carbon allotrope (103) and / or at least one aperture (132) can be controlled by adjusting laser beam parameters such as pulse duration, output, focal length, frequency, wavelength, and / or scanning speed.

[0145] The carbon allotrope (103) can be formed on an electrical insulating substrate (108) by laser-induced deposition.

[0146] The inventors analyzed various carbon allotropes (103) samples using Raman microspectroscopy.

[0147] Each of the carbon allotrope (103) samples was prepared by laser irradiation of a polyimide (poly(4,4'-oxydiphenylene-pyromellitimide), Kapton® HN, DuPont) substrate (108) (electrical insulating substrate). Each polyimide substrate had a length of about 4.5 mm, a width of about 4.5 mm, and a thickness of about 125 μm, and was in the shape of a rectangular prism. This was done by approximately 4.5 mm × about 2 mm (i.e., about 9 mm) of each polyimide substrate to form the carbon allotrope (103). 2; involved irradiating the area of ​​the rectangle with a laser beam. Each of the carbon allotrope (103) samples was subjected to Raman microspectroscopy. Each of the carbon allotrope (103) samples was porous and electrically conductive.

[0148] Not bound by theory, Raman spectroscopy is considered a non-destructive vibrational spectroscopic technique that utilizes a laser to excite bonds within a sample (e.g., carbon) and interprets the inelastic scattering of bond vibrations as relative Raman shifts. Inelastic scattering from interactions with the sample generates relative Raman shifts, thereby producing a spectrum that can be used to interpret the characteristics and / or identity of the sample. For the characterization of carbon allotrope (103) samples, typically about 1329 cm⁻¹ -1 Peak position of the D band observed at, typically around 1579 cm⁻¹ -1 The G band observed at, and typically around 2630 cm⁻¹ -1 The 2D bands observed in can be investigated. The D band can be referred to as the "disorder band" and is an indicator of the sp3 hybridization of carbon within the sample. The G band can be referred to as the "graphene band" and is used to determine the sp2 hybridization of the carbon structure within the sample. For example, the Raman spectrum of a pure graphene sample typically includes a narrow G band of high intensity and will not include a D band. The Raman spectrum of a graphite sample typically includes both G and D bands, and the intensity of the D band is lower than that of the G band. I D / I G The rain is the D-band peak (I D Counts of the intensity (au) of ) versus the G-band peak (I GIt can be utilized by determining the counts of the intensity and can be used to determine the allotropes of carbon present in the sample. 2D bands can also be used to determine the shape of the allotropes by interpreting the area of ​​the curve and the peak positions. For example, crystalline graphite will typically exhibit sharp, narrow peak curves following a Lorentz curve fitting model, while 2D bands of a sample containing amorphous carbon will typically exhibit wider, flatter bands following a Gaussian curve fitting model. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the peaks can also be used to determine the crystallinity within the sample. FWHM is measured by determining the width of the corresponding peak at half the total intensity of the sample.

[0149] Raman microspectrography involved measuring the Raman spectrum of each sample using the Horiba Xplora Plus Raman Microspectrometer and the following parameters:

[0150] Laser wavelength of 638 nm;

[0151] Grid having 1800 grooves / mm;

[0152] 5 seconds acquisition time;

[0153] 20 accumulations (20 spectra);

[0154] Laser output of 10.9 mW;

[0155] 300 μm confocal pinhole; and

[0156] Approximately 1000 cm -1 to about 3000 cm -1 Wavelength range of.

[0157] Raman microspectroscopy was performed at 21 ℃.

[0158] The carbon allotrope (103) samples applied to Raman microspectroscopy were unused.

[0159] The Raman spectrum of each of the carbon allotrope (103) samples included a G band and a D band, and the G band peak was at approximately 1550 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1590 cm -1 It was within the Raman shift range, and the D-band peak was approximately 1310 cm⁻¹ -1 to about 1340 cm -1 It was within the Raman shift range, and the intensity of the D-band peak I D Intensity of the G band peak I G Of I D / I G The value was 1 to 1.8. The Raman spectrum of each of the carbon allotrope (103) samples was approximately 2620 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 2680 cm -1 It included a 2D band peak within the Raman shift range. In the Raman spectrum of each of the carbon allotrope (103) samples, the G band peak is approximately 45 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 62 cm -1 It had a full width at half maximum (FWHM). In the Raman spectra of each of the carbon allotrope (103) samples, the 2D bands typically followed a Lorentz curve fitting model.

[0160] The Raman spectra of each of the carbon allotrop (103) samples indicated that the samples contained disordered graphite, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof.

[0161] FIG. 14 shows the Raman spectrum of one of the carbon allotrope (103) samples. The sample was in an unused state. As shown in FIG. 14, the G band peak is at approximately 1573 cm⁻¹. -1 It was observed at, and the D band peak is approximately 1320 cm⁻¹. -1 It was observed at, and the 2D band peak is approximately 2630 cm⁻¹. -1 It was observed at. Intensity I of the G band peak G Intensity of the D-band peak I D Non-I regarding G / I DIt was approximately 1.6. The G band peak was approximately 62 cm. -1 It had an FWHM. The 2D band followed the Lorentz curve fitting model.

[0162] The inventors have discovered that allotropes of carbon (103), comprising disordered graphite, amorphous carbon, nanocrystalline graphite, or a combination thereof, provide particularly effective aerosol generating components. These allotropes of carbon (103) have been found to effectively dissipate heat, reduce temperature fluctuations, and reduce the severity of any hot spots. These allotropes of carbon (103) exhibited low electrical resistance (and high electrical conductivity), which are particularly suitable for use in non-combustion aerosol delivery systems. These allotropes of carbon (103) also facilitated effective liquid distribution, such as liquid distribution over the entire surface of the allotropes of carbon and / or within the allotropes of carbon.

[0163] Although the above content has focused on describing an allotrope (103) of carbon as an aerosol generator (102), it should be recognized that the principles of the present disclosure are applicable to any aerosol generator (102) available for use in the article (100).

[0164] The storage (101) is suitable for storing the aerosol-generating material (200). The storage (101) can take various forms. As shown in FIG. 2, the storage (101) may have at least one wall (109) defining an internal volume (104) in which the aerosol-generating material (200) can be stored.

[0165] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a reservoir (101) formed by outer walls (109) and an (optional) aerosol generator support (129). The outer walls (109) and the aerosol generator support (129) define an internal volume (104) of the reservoir (101) where an aerosol-generating material (200) can be located. In embodiments where the aerosol generator support (129) is not present, the aerosol generator support (129) is replaced by additional outer walls (109).

[0166] The aerosol generator (102) / carbon allotrope (103) is arranged so that an aerosol-generating material (200) can be supplied thereto. For example, the reservoir (101) may include an opening or channel (particularly, see flow conduit (130) in FIG. 2) penetrating the outer wall (109) or aerosol generator support (129) that allows the aerosol-generating material (200) to pass from the internal volume (104) of the reservoir (101) to the carbon allotrope (103). In some embodiments, the carbon allotrope (103) may be extended through the wall (109) and / or formed as part of the wall (109).

[0167] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a close cross-section of a reservoir (101) and an allotrope of carbon (103) of an article (100) according to another example. In the example of FIG. 3, the reservoir (101) converges toward the allotrope of carbon (103). That is, the inner surface of the reservoir (101) may converge toward the allotrope of carbon (103). Such arrangements help to guide the aerosol-generating material (200) toward or toward the allotrope of carbon (103) when in use. This is particularly advantageous when the surface area of ​​the allotrope of carbon (103) exposed inside the reservoir (101) is significantly smaller than the total surface area of ​​the inner surface of the reservoir (101).

[0168] In FIG. 3, it can also be seen that the carbon allotrope (103) is positioned to extend between the outer walls (109). The carbon allotrope (103) and the storage (101) can be formed integrally. For example, the carbon allotrope (103) and the wall (109) through which the carbon allotrope (103) extends at least partially can be formed integrally. In this way, the article (100) can be manufactured efficiently without the need to assemble the storage (101) and the carbon allotrope (103) as separate components. Additionally, the article (100) can be more robust than an article in which the carbon allotrope (103) and the storage (101) are formed as separate components.

[0169] As discussed above, the carbon allotrope (103) may comprise a plurality of portions, such as an aerosol-generating portion (106) and / or a transport portion (107). The cross-sectional area of ​​the transport portion (107) may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol-generating portion (106), wherein each cross-sectional area is measured orthogonally to the thickness range of the wall (109). This arrangement may facilitate the delivery of the aerosol-generating material (200) at a controlled rate (e.g., with reduced risk of leakage) and facilitate a desirable aerosol-generating profile. Referring to FIG. 4, the transport portion (107) may comprise a first portion (112) and a second portion (113). The first portion (112) may be exposed to the internal volume (104) of the storage (101). The second portion (113) may extend from the first portion (112) to the aerosol-generating portion (106). The transfer portion (113) may or may not be exposed to the interior (104) of the storage (101).

[0170] The reservoir (101) may be formed at least partially from an electrical insulating material. For example, a wall (109) through which an allotrope of carbon (103) extends at least partially may be formed from an electrical insulating material. For example, a portion of the wall (109) through which an allotrope of carbon (103) extends at least partially may be formed from an electrical insulating material. For example, a portion of the wall (109) adjacent to the allotrope of carbon (103) may be formed from an electrical insulating material.

[0171] It will be understood that various electrical insulating materials may be used. Electrical insulating materials may include or be formed from plastics, glass, paper, and / or ceramics. Plastics may be selected from polysulfone (PSU), poly(ethersulfone) (PES), polyimide (PI), poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyetherketone (PEK). In some examples, polyimide (PI) is selected from polyetherimide (PEI) and polyamide-imide (PAI). Glass may be selected from the group consisting of silicate glass and non-silicate glass. In some examples, silicate glass is borosilicate glass or quartz glass (fused quartz). Glass may be flexible. Glass may be non-porous.

[0172] It should be recognized that the form and structure of the storage (101) are not particularly limited, and that the principles of the present disclosure may be applied to any specific form or structure of the storage (101).

[0173] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generator (102) may include an (optional) electrical insulating substrate (108). An allotrope of carbon (103) may be arranged (or deposited or supported) on the electrical insulating substrate (108). It has been found that the electrical insulating substrate (108) can provide a useful structural support for the allotrope of carbon (103), thereby improving the rigidity of the aerosol generator (102). The electrical insulating substrate (108) may be non-porous or porous.

[0174] The electrical insulating substrate (108) may be made of any suitable electrical insulating material that may also be thermal insulating. The electrical insulating substrate (108) may comprise or be formed from plastic (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK)), glass (e.g., quartz glass), paper, and / or ceramic. In some embodiments, the electrical insulating substrate (108) has a thickness of 100 μm to 4 mm, but the thickness of the electrical insulating substrate (108) is not limited to these thicknesses.

[0175] In FIG. 2, at least one aperture (132) is shown extending through the electrical insulating substrate (108). It has been found that at least one aperture (132) facilitates the effective delivery of the aerosol-generating material (200) to the carbon allotrope (103). In particular, the aerosol-generating material (200) can be delivered to the carbon allotrope (103) through at least one aperture (132) from the surface of the substrate (108) opposite the surface on which the carbon allotrope (103) is supported. In this way, the aerosol-generating material (200) delivered through at least one aperture (132) can spread in a controlled manner throughout the carbon allotrope (103), and the carbon allotrope (103) is shielded from the bulk volume of the aerosol-generating material (200) by the substrate (108). In this way, heat loss is reduced and aerosol generation efficiency is improved. Additionally, it was found that at least one aperture (132) allows for controlled delivery of the aerosol-generating material (200) to the carbon allotrope (103) (e.g., equal to the dimensions of the cross-section of at least one aperture (132) and / or the number of apertures (132)), while the structure of the substrate (108) prevents the aerosol from unintentionally flowing into the reservoir (101).

[0176] In other embodiments, at least one aperture (132) may include a plurality of apertures (132). That is, the aerosol generator (102) may each include a plurality of apertures (132) that extend through the electrical insulating substrate (108). Each of the plurality of apertures (132) may extend from a first surface of the electrical insulating substrate (108) to a second (e.g., opposite) surface of the electrical insulating substrate (108). The plurality of apertures (132) may be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of apertures (132) may include at least three apertures. The plurality of apertures (132) may form an array or a two-dimensional pattern. For example, the plurality of apertures (132) may form an array or a two-dimensional pattern across the entire first surface and / or second surface.

[0177] In the example of FIG. 2, the electrical insulating substrate (108) is provided together with an aerosol generator support (129). Accordingly, the conduit (130) of the aerosol generator support (129) is provided in fluid communication with one or more apertures (132) of the electrical insulating substrate (108). However, it should be recognized that the electrical insulating substrate (108) may be provided in embodiments where the aerosol generator support (129) is omitted.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the article (100) (e.g., storage (101)) may include an aerosol generator support (129). It will be understood that the aerosol generator support (129) supports an aerosol generator (102). For example, the aerosol generator (102) may be mounted on the aerosol generator support (129). It has been found that the aerosol generator support (129) helps maintain the structural integrity of the aerosol generator (102), particularly when the carbon allotrope (103) and / or electrical insulation substrate (108) are vulnerable. In use, the aerosol generator support (129) may restrict and / or reduce the flow of aerosol-generating material (200) inside the storage (101) into the aerosol generator (102).

[0179] The aerosol generator support (129) may include at least one conduit (130). The inner diameter of the conduit (130) or each conduit (130) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the reservoir (101). The conduit (130) or each conduit (130) may extend toward (or to) the aerosol generator (102). For example, the conduit (130) or each conduit (130) may be aligned with the aerosol generator (102). The aerosol generator support (129) may include a solid structure (131) through which at least one conduit (130) extends.

[0180] When in use, the aerosol-generating material may traverse the aerosol generator support (129) preferentially (or only through it) through the conduit (130) or each conduit (130). It has been found that the aerosol generator support (129) can help control the flow of the aerosol-generating material (200) into the aerosol generator (102) while shielding the aerosol generator (102) from the bulk volume of the aerosol-generating material (200). In this way, the aerosol generator support (129) can be considered as a thermal barrier. Additionally, it has been found that the conduit(s) (130) can help guide the liquid toward the aerosol generator (102) and / or reduce or prevent the formation of bubbles (which may be formed by the movement of the article (100).

[0181] The aerosol generator support (129) may be made of a thermal insulating material. Various thermal insulating materials may be used. The thermal insulating material may include or be formed from plastic, glass, paper, and / or ceramic.

[0182] The aerosol generator support (129) may be arranged so that aerosol-generating material (200) inside the reservoir (101) is transferred to the aerosol generator (102) through at least one channel (130). The aerosol generator support (129) may be a part formed integrally with the reservoir (101). Alternatively, the aerosol generator support (129) may be a separable or separate part of the reservoir (101). For example, the wall (109) of the reservoir (101) may include the aerosol generator support (129). For example, the wall (109) (or a part thereof) through which an allotrope of carbon extends at least partially may include the aerosol generator support (129).

[0183] In some examples, the carbon allotrope (103) may extend through at least partially the aerosol generator support (129). For example, the carbon allotrope (103) may be formed integrally with the aerosol generator support (129).

[0184] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the article (100) may include an optional sealant (125). The sealant (125) may be arranged between a reservoir (101) and an aerosol generator (102). The sealant (125) may be arranged between a wall (109) and an aerosol generator (102). The sealant (125) may be arranged between an aerosol generator support (129) and an aerosol generator (102). The sealant (125) may be arranged between a reservoir (101) and an allotrope of carbon (103). The sealant (125) may be arranged between a wall (109) and an allotrope of carbon (103). The sealant (125) may be arranged between an aerosol generator support (129) and an allotrope of carbon (103).

[0185] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the seal (125) may be a gasket. For example, the seal (125) may be a mechanical seal. It will be understood that the seal (125) may be formed from various materials. For example, the seal (125) may be formed from a flexible and / or deformable material. The seal (125) may include or be formed from a polymer material, a fibrous material, a metallic material, and / or a glass material. The polymer material may be (e.g.) silicone or polyimide.

[0186] In some embodiments, the sealant (125) may include an adhesive or be formed of an adhesive. Such a sealant (125) may be referred to as an adhesive sealant (125). The adhesive sealant (125) may adhere the aerosol generator (102) to the reservoir (101), for example, in embodiments where the aerosol generator (102) is not formed as part of the wall (109) of the reservoir (101). For example, the adhesive sealant (125) may adhere the aerosol generator (102) to the wall (109) of the reservoir (101) (e.g., an aerosol generator support (129)).

[0187] The sealant (125) may be intended to reduce or prevent unintended leakage of the aerosol-generating material (200) between the reservoir (101) (e.g., its wall (109); e.g., an aerosol generator support (129)) and the aerosol generator (102). The sealant (125) may be intended to reduce or prevent unintended leakage of the aerosol-generating material (200) between the reservoir (101) (e.g., its wall (109); e.g., an aerosol generator support (129)) and the allotrope of carbon (103).

[0188] At least one opening (126) (e.g., shown in FIG. 2) may be provided in the sealing material (125). The at least one opening (126) may overlap with or cover the aerosol generator (102). When in use, the aerosol-generating material (200) in the reservoir (101) may flow through the at least one opening (126) to the aerosol generator (102) (e.g., an allotrope of carbon (103)).

[0189] Referring to FIG. 2, the article (100) may include at least one electrical contact (123). For example, the article (100) may include at least two (e.g., a pair) electrical contacts (123). It will be understood that the electrical contact (123) or each electrical contact (123) is electrically conductive.

[0190] At least one electrical contact (123) may be for connecting to a power source, such as a cell (5), provided to the device (20) of the aerosol supply system (10). The power source may be for supplying power to the aerosol generator (102) so that the aerosol generator (102) generates an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material (200) (e.g., through heating).

[0191] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate at least one electrical contact (123) arranged on or in contact with an aerosol-generating component (102) (e.g., an allotrope of carbon (103)). The at least one electrical contact (123) is provided to contact an electrical conductor (e.g., a pogo pin or similar) of the device (20) when the article (100) is coupled to the device (20). Thus, power can be supplied to the allotrope of carbon (103) to heat the aerosol-generating material (200).

[0192] At least one electrical contact (123) may be provided in various forms. The electrical contact (123) or each electrical contact (123) may be bonded to or in contact with an allotrope of carbon (103). The electrical contact (123) or each electrical contact may comprise a metal material or be formed of a metal material. The metal material may be a metal alloy such as solder. The metal material may be silver, copper, gold, platinum, palladium, tungsten, or nickel. For example, the metal material may be silver chloride.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 4, at least two of the electrical contacts (123) may be arranged to be in contact with the carbon allotrope (103), thereby extending through the aerosol generating section (106) while bypassing the transport section (107). In this way, the aerosol generating section (106) may reach a temperature for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material, whereas the transport section (107) may not. This arrangement may result in improved efficiency and performance (compared to the case where the entire carbon allotrope (103) reaches aerosolization temperatures).

[0194] Additionally, it has been found that impact between the electrical contact(s) (123) and the carbon allotrope (103) can cause damage to the carbon allotrope (103). This may occur during the manufacture of the article (100) or after the article (100) has been manufactured. Damage to the carbon allotrope (103) may manifest as internal cracks and / or chips, which may negatively affect the performance of the aerosol generator (102). Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the risk of damage to the carbon allotrope (103). In this regard, the electrical contact(s) or each electrical contact(s) may have a substantially flat contact surface. For example, the electrical contact(s) or each electrical contact(s) may be formed as a plate. The plate may have a substantially flat contact surface. The substantially flat contact surface may be arranged in contact with the carbon allotrope (103). Without being bound by theory, these arrangements are believed to reduce the pressure applied to the carbon allotrope (103) by the electric contact(s).

[0195] FIG. 5 illustrates in more detail an exemplary arrangement of parts of the reservoir (101) and aerosol generator (102) of FIG. 2, particularly an arrangement in which a retaining element (124) is provided to maintain the aerosol generator (102) and / or electrical contacts (123) in a suitable position.

[0196] In this example, the aerosol generator support (129) is shown to have recesses (128). A sealant (125) is shown between the aerosol generator (102) and the aerosol generator support (129). The sealant (125) likewise has recess / channel portions that extend through it (not labeled in FIG. 5). A pair of electrical contacts (123) are shown on both sides of the carbon allotrope (103) (including the electrical insulating substrate (108)). In particular, each electrical contact (123) is positioned on either side or end of the carbon allotrope (103). Each of the electrical contacts (123) has a through hole (not labeled in FIG. 5). As can be seen in FIG. 5, when the article (100) is assembled such that the sealant (125) is positioned on the base of the reservoir (101) and the carbon allotrope (103) is positioned between the sealant (125) and the electrical contacts (123), a retaining element (124), which is a screw or pin in this embodiment, is positioned in the individual through holes of the electrical contacts (123) and the sealant (125) and is secured in the recesses (128). In this way, the retaining element (124) holds the electrical contacts (123) in place relative to the reservoir (101) and additionally helps the electrical contacts (123) maintain contact with the carbon allotrope (103). Thus, by the screw / pin as the retaining element (124), the carbon allotrope (103) and the electrical contacts (123) can be held in place.

[0197] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary arrangement of the retaining element (124), and it should be recognized that in other embodiments the retaining element (124) may take different forms. For example, in some embodiments, the retaining element (124) may be an adhesive (e.g., provided between the electrical contact (123) and the sealant (125) / aerosol generator support (129)). In other embodiments, the retaining element (124) may be a biasing element, such as an elastic biasing element, such as a clamp or a clip.

[0198] In some embodiments, it will be understood that the retaining element(s) (124) may be separate from the electric contact(s) (123) or may be formed integrally with the electric contact(s) (123). For example, in some embodiments, the electric contact (123) or each electric contact (123) may include a retaining element (124) formed integrally.

[0199] As described above, the aerosol delivery system (10) defines an airflow path through the system (10) from an air inlet to an air outlet (mouthpiece (35) of the aerosol delivery system (10)). The article (100) is coupled to the device (20) when in use, and thus the article (100) includes a housing (134) comprising an air inlet (135), an air outlet (136), and an air passage (137) extending between the air inlet (135) and the air outlet (136). An aerosol generator (102) / allosome of carbon (103) is arranged in fluid communication with the air passage (137) so that when a user inhales on the aerosol delivery system (10), the aerosol can be delivered into the air passage (137).

[0200] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an article (100) comprising a housing (134) and an air passage (137). The housing (134) includes an air inlet (135) and an air outlet (136) provided on the outer surfaces of the housing (134). The air inlet (135) may be provided at various positions, such as the base of the housing (134). The air outlet (136) may be provided at various positions, such as the top of the housing (134). Generally, the air inlet (135) and the air outlet (136) are provided at different positions relative to the housing (134) and at positions that define or facilitate airflow around the aerosol generator (102). For example, the article (100) may include a mouthpiece (not shown in the drawings), and an air outlet (136) may be formed in or by the mouthpiece, while an air inlet (135) is provided at the opposite end of the article (100).

[0201] In the example of FIG. 6, the air passage (137) is provided to surround the outer wall (109) (or at least part thereof) of the storage (101). That is, the air passage (137) includes an upstream portion (upstream of the aerosol generator (102)), which branches into a plurality of midstream portions passing through both sides of the storage (101) and then joins in a downstream portion extending to an air outlet (136). However, the principles of the present disclosure are not limited to this particular configuration of the air passage (137), and different designs of the article (100) and the storage (101) may lead to other configurations of the air passage (137) as needed. For example, in some embodiments, the air passage (137) is provided in the center of the housing (134) and the reservoir (101) may be positioned around the air passage (137) (e.g., as an annular cylinder in which the inner wall and the outer wall define the volume (104), while the air passage (137) continues through a tubular portion defined by the inner wall). Various forms of the air passage (137) are envisioned.

[0202] When in use, airflow through the air passage (137) can flow from the air inlet (135) into the housing (134) toward the aerosol generator (102) / carbon allotrope (103). The air flowing past the aerosol generator (102) carries the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator (102), and the resulting air-aerosol mixture flows through the remainder of the air passage (137), exits the housing (134) at the air outlet (136), and enters the user's mouth.

[0203] FIG. 6 does not show the electric contacts (123) and the corresponding electric contacts of the control unit (20) that are coupled to the article (100) at use to form an aerosol providing system (10). According to an embodiment, the electric contacts of the control unit (20) may protrude through the housing (134), for example through openings of the housing (134), to make electrical contact with the electric contacts (123).

[0204] According to the present disclosure, an aerosol providing system (10) is provided with a plurality of aerosol generators (102) (e.g., allotropes of carbon (103), but not limited thereto) each configured to generate an aerosol from a specific aerosol-generating material (200). For example, the aerosol providing system (10) may be provided with a plurality of reservoirs (101), each reservoir (101) feeds a separate aerosol generator (102), and accordingly, the aerosol generator (102) may be controlled (e.g., energy supplied) to generate an aerosol from a specific aerosol-generating material of the associated reservoir (101).

[0205] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an exemplary article (100) comprising a plurality of reservoirs (101) (in this particular example, three reservoirs labeled 101a, 101b, and 101c) each provided with an aerosol generator (102) (in this example, three aerosol generators labeled 102a, 102b, and 102c). In this example, the aerosol generators (102a to 102c) are each allotropes (103) of carbon, and thus may be referred to as allotropes (103a, 103b, and 103c) of carbon. The remaining features of the article (100) of FIG. 7 are similar to the corresponding features of FIG. 6, namely, a housing (134) including an air inlet (135), an air outlet (136), and an air passage (137) fluidly connecting the air inlet (135) and the air outlet (136).

[0206] Each of the reservoirs (101a to 101c) may contain a different aerosol-generating material (200). For example, each of the reservoirs (101a to 101c) may contain a liquid aerosol-generating material, but may differ from one another in terms of components such as flavor or active ingredients. For example, each of the reservoirs (101a to 101c) may contain the same liquid aerosol-generating material except for the flavoring agent used, and accordingly, the aerosols generated from the individual aerosol-generating materials (200) provide a different flavor aerosol to be delivered to a user inhaling from a mouthpiece. Thus, by selectively supplying energy to one or more of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c), different aerosols (i.e., aerosols of different flavor) can be generated and delivered to a user through a mouthpiece. More generally, in some embodiments, each of the sources of the aerosol-generating material (200) differs from one another in at least one of the components, flavoring agent, percentage of flavoring agent, active ingredient (e.g., nicotine), and percentage of active ingredient.

[0207] As previously described, the article (100) will be used with the corresponding device (20). When the article (100) is coupled to the device (20), it may form an electrical connection, for example, through a plurality of electrical contacts provided to the device (20). As will be described in more detail below, the device (20) may include a plurality of pairs of conductive elements (e.g., pogo pins or similar) and each of which may be electrically connected to a corresponding pair of electrical contacts (123) provided in association with each of the three carbon allotropes (103a to 103c), or the device (20) may include a pair of conductive elements and the article (100) may be coupled to each of the three carbon allotropes (103) and configured to induce a selective energy supply of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c).

[0208] The use of the article (100) of FIG. 7 is similar to the use of the article of FIG. 6 in that when a user inhales into the aerosol delivery system (10), air is introduced through the inlet (135), branches out, flows through the sides of the reservoirs (101a) and (101c), and then recombines before exiting the housing through the outlet (136).

[0209] Much like the embodiment of FIG. 6, the embodiment of the article (100) of FIG. 7 is merely illustrative, and the actual structure of the article (100), such as the relative positioning of the storage units (101a to 101c), may differ in different embodiments. For example, FIG. 7 shows the storage units (101a to 101c) positioned side by side, but the storage units (101a to 101c) may instead be implemented as three segments or wedges of cylindrical storage units separated by suitable dividing walls. The exact shape and arrangement of the storage units (101a to 101c) within the article (100) are not important to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0210] According to the present disclosure, the inventors have identified an approach for selectively supplying energy to one or more of aerosol generators (102a to 102c) / carbon allotropes (103a to 103c). In particular, the inventors have identified an approach for selectively supplying energy to one or more of aerosol generators (102a to 102c) / carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) in order to avoid the use of switches or similar components that are selectively activated to connect any one of the aerosol generators (102a to 102c) / carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) to a power source (e.g., battery (5) of the device (20)).

[0211] FIG. 8 illustrates a circuit section (300) according to a first example of the principles of the present disclosure. The circuit section (300) is schematically depicted and illustrates the main components involved in explaining the principles of selective energy supply according to the present disclosure. However, it will be recognized that in actual embodiments certain components may be omitted and / or certain other components may be added to the circuit section (300).

[0212] The circuit section (300) includes a variable power generator (305) connected in parallel with each of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c). In particular, FIG. 8 shows two common lines / wires extending from the variable power generator (305), and each of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) branches off from the common wires. In FIG. 8, the branches are represented by black circles on each of the common wires. It should be noted that each branched wire from the common wire is coupled to a corresponding electrical contact (123) that electrically contacts the carbon allotrop (103) (as described above). Thus, the variable power generator (305) is electrically coupled to each of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c), so that the variable power generator (305) can supply power to each of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c).

[0213] The variable power generator (305) is configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency.

[0214] "Alternating current output power signal" means that the output power signal alternates between a first value and a second value (e.g., a positive value and a negative value) at a given frequency. For example, the alternating current output power signal may include a power signal that follows a sinusoidal waveform in which at least one parameter (e.g., current and / or voltage) alternates between a first value (a positive value) and a second value (a negative value) at a given frequency. The alternating current power signal may be any suitable waveform that varies at a given frequency, i.e., a waveform other than sinusoidal waveforms. The magnitudes of the first and second values ​​may be determined or set according to the total power to be supplied to the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c), for example, the total power is calculated based on the effective values ​​(RMS) of the voltage and current.

[0215] "Variable frequency" means that the frequency at which the AC output power signal changes between a first value and a second value is variable. In other words, the variable power generator (305) can output distinct AC power signals that alternate at different rates. For example, the variable power generator (305) may be configured to output a first AC output power signal following a sinusoidal waveform having a frequency of 500 Hz and a second AC output power signal following a sinusoidal waveform having a frequency of 800 Hz.

[0216] The variable power generator (305) may be configured to output an AC output power signal of a single frequency at any given time (provided that this frequency may vary at different times). That is, the variable power generator (305) may be configured to output a first AC output power signal following a sinusoidal waveform having a frequency of 500 Hz at a first time, and a second AC output power signal following a sinusoidal waveform having a frequency of 800 Hz at a second time. In other embodiments, the variable power generator (305) may be configured to output an AC power signal that varies according to a plurality of frequencies simultaneously (in other words, the AC output power signal is a superposition of AC output power signals following sinusoidal waveforms of, for example, two given frequencies). Furthermore, it should be recognized that the AC output power signal may not actually be generated at a single frequency and may have a distribution of frequency components spreading from a center frequency corresponding to a given frequency. Additionally, it should be recognized that the variable power generator (305) may have a limitation on the frequency of the AC output power signal it can generate. That is, the variable power generator (305) may be configured to generate an AC output power signal having a frequency in the range of, for example, 0 to 1 kHz. More generally, the variable power generator (305) is configured to generate an AC output power signal having a frequency of 0 Hz to 10 kHz, or 0 Hz to 5 kHz, or 0 Hz to 2 kHz, or 0 to 1 kHz, but in other embodiments, the variable power generator (305) may be configured to generate an AC output power signal having frequencies different from those described.

[0217] The variable power generator (305) may be any suitable component capable of generating an AC output power signal as described above. The specific manner in which the variable power generator (305) generates the AC output power signal as described above is not important in the principles of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the variable power generator (305) may include an inverter or something similar. The variable power generator (305) may be electrically coupled to a power source, such as the power / battery (5) of the device (20). In these cases, the variable power generator (305) is configured to generate an AC output power signal from the DC output provided by the power / battery (5).

[0218] The variable power generator (305) can be controlled through a suitable control circuit such as a PCB (28). That is, the PCB (28) or a similar control circuit causes the variable power generator (305) to output an AC output power signal according to a given frequency / frequencies. In some embodiments, the PCB (28) or a similar control circuit causes the variable power generator (305) to output an AC output power signal according to a given frequency / frequencies based on user input received, for example, through the user interface of the device (20) and / or through the user interface of a smartphone or similar device communicably coupled to the device (20). The user input may specify the frequency or frequencies to be generated, or in other embodiments, may optionally specify the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) to be supplied with energy. In other embodiments, the PCB (28) or similar control circuit unit causes the variable power generator (305) to output an alternating power signal according to given frequencies, for example, based on a predefined schema set by the manufacturer. For example, after a given number of inhalations in the aerosol supply system (10), the frequency may be changed to induce the generation of aerosol from different carbon allotropes (103).

[0219] As can be seen in FIG. 8, each branch connecting the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) to a common line / wire is provided with a pair of filters (301a to 301c) and (302a to 302c). The filters (301a to 301c) and (302a to 302c) together define a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to a variable power generator (305). The frequency filter arrangements are configured to filter the AC output power signal based on the frequency of the AC output power signal.

[0220] More specifically, filters (301a to 301c) are high-pass filters (sometimes referred to herein as HPF), and filters (302a to 302c) are low-pass filters (sometimes referred to herein as LPF). The HPFs (301a to 301c) are configured to prevent the transmission of an AC output power signal (or components thereof) having a frequency higher than a specific threshold frequency. Likewise, the LPFs (302a to 302c) are configured to prevent the transmission of an AC output power signal (or components thereof) having a frequency lower than a specific threshold frequency.

[0221] According to the principles of the present disclosure, HPFs (301a to 301c) and LPFs (302a to 302c) are configured in such a way that an AC output power signal can be selectively provided to selected of a plurality of carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) depending on the frequency (or frequency component) of the AC output power signal.

[0222] For example, HPF (301a) is configured with a threshold frequency of 200 Hz and LPF (302a) is configured with a threshold frequency of 400 Hz; HPF (301b) is configured with a threshold frequency of 400 Hz and LPF (302b) is configured with a threshold frequency of 600 Hz; HPF (301c) is configured with a threshold frequency of 600 Hz and LPF (302c) is configured with a threshold frequency of 800 Hz.

[0223] When in use, the variable power generator (305) outputs an AC output power signal of a specific frequency. According to the above example, if the frequency of the AC output power signal is less than 200 Hz, the AC output power signal is prevented from being transmitted to any of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c). More specifically, each of the HPFs (301a to 301c) prevents further transmission of the AC output power signal because the AC output power signal has a frequency lower than each of the individual thresholds of the HPFs (301a to 301c) (i.e., 200 Hz, 400 Hz, and 600 Hz, respectively).

[0224] If the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than 200 Hz and less than 400 Hz, the AC output power signal may be transmitted to the first carbon allotrope (103a), but is prevented from being transmitted to the second and third carbon allotropes (103b and 103c). More specifically, HPF (301a) allows the AC output power signal with a frequency greater than 200 Hz to pass through the filter, but HPFs (301b) and (301c) each prevent the transmission of the AC output power signal because the AC output power signal has a frequency lower than the respective thresholds (i.e., 400 Hz for HPF (301b), 600 Hz for HPF (301c)). Additionally, when the AC output power signal passes through the HPF (301a), the AC output power signal can pass through the LPF (302a) because the frequency of the AC output power signal is less than the threshold value (400 Hz) of the LPF (302a). Therefore, in this example, when the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than 200 Hz and less than 400 Hz, the AC output power signal can be provided to the first carbon allotrope (103a), but cannot be provided to the second and third carbon allotropes (103b) and (103c).

[0225] If the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than 400 Hz and less than 600 Hz, the AC output power signal may be transmitted to the second carbon allotrope (103b), but transmission to the first and third carbon allotropes (103a and 103c) is prevented. More specifically, since the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than the individual thresholds (200 Hz for HPF (301a) and 400 Hz for HPF (301b)), both HPF (301a) and HPF (301b) allow the AC output power signal to pass through them, but HPF (301c) prevents the transmission of the AC output power signal because the AC output power signal has a frequency lower than the threshold of HPF (301c), which is 600 Hz. When the AC output power signal passes through the HPF (301b), the AC output power signal can pass through the LPF (302b) because the frequency of the AC output power signal is less than the threshold value (600 Hz) of the LPF (302b). However, even if the AC output power signal passes through the HPF (301a), it is prevented from passing through the LPF (302a) because the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than the threshold value (400 Hz) of the LPF (302a). Therefore, in this example, when the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than 400 Hz and less than 600 Hz, the AC output power signal can be provided to the second carbon allotrope (103b), but cannot be provided to the first and third carbon allotropes (103a) and (103c).

[0226] If the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than 600 Hz and less than 800 Hz, the AC output power signal may be transmitted to the third carbon allotrope (103a), but transmission to the first and second carbon allotropes (103a and 103b) is prevented. More specifically, since the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than the individual thresholds (200 Hz for HPF (301a), 400 Hz for HPF (301b), and 600 Hz for HPF (301c)), all HPFs (301a to 301c) allow the AC output power signal to pass through them. When the AC output power signal passes through HPF (301c), the AC output power signal can pass through LPF (302c) because the frequency of the AC output power signal is less than the threshold (800 Hz) of LPF (302c). However, even if the AC output power signal passes through the HPF (301a) and HPF (301b), the LPF (302a) and LPF (302b) are prevented from passing because the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than the individual thresholds, which are 400 Hz for the LPF (302a) and 600 Hz for the LPF (302b). Therefore, in this example, when the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than 600 Hz and less than 800 Hz, the AC output power signal can be provided to the third carbon allotrope (103c), but cannot be provided to the first and second carbon allotropes (103a) and (103b).

[0227] For completeness, it should be recognized that if the frequency of the AC output power signal exceeds 800 Hz, the AC output power signal is prevented from being transmitted to each of the first, second, and third carbon allotropes (103a to 103c). Even if such AC output power signal passes through the HPFs (301a to 301c) (since their frequencies are higher than thresholds of 200 Hz, 400 Hz, and 600 Hz, respectively), each of the LPFs (302a to 302c) prevents the transmission of the AC output power signal to each of the first, second, and third carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) (since their frequencies are higher than thresholds of 400 Hz, 600 Hz, and 800 Hz, respectively).

[0228] Accordingly, it can be seen that, based on the frequency of the AC output power signal (as generated by the variable power generator (305)), the circuit (300) can selectively provide the AC output power signal to different allotropes of carbon (103a to 103c) (or more generally, aerosol generators (102)). The AC output power signal is set such that the power provided to the selected allotropes of carbon (103a to 103c) is sufficient to cause the allotropes of carbon (103a to 103c) to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material (200) supplied thereto. Accordingly, the circuit (300) is configured to enable the selective generation of an aerosol from the corresponding aerosol-generating material supplied to the individual allotropes of carbon (103a to 103c). As explained above, this may mean that different aerosols (e.g., aerosols of different flavors) may be generated and delivered to the user depending on which of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) the current energy supply is being supplied.

[0229] The circuit section (300) allows one of a number of aerosol generators (102) to be selected without using switches or similar components located between the variable power generator (305) and the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c). In some cases, switches / transistors may be provided in the variable power generator (305), but the control of these switches may be relatively simple in that what needs to be controlled is a single component, namely the variable power generator (305). Additionally, this approach can reduce the number of parts, particularly in the article (100).

[0230] FIG. 8 shows two dashed lines (A and B). These lines represent two different examples in which a circuit section (300) can be implemented in the aerosol providing system (10) when the aerosol providing system (10) is formed of at least two separable components (i.e., device (20) and article (30 / 100)). In this regard, each line A and B represents a connection interface (21 / 31) of the device (20) or article (30 / 100), and thus indicates where electrical connectors at these interfaces (21 / 31) can be located for the components of the circuit section (300).

[0231] Looking at line A, this represents a first embodiment in which a variable power generator (305) and filter arrangements (301a to 301c and 302a to 302b) are provided to the device (20). In this embodiment, it should be recognized that a plurality of electrical connectors are provided at the interfaces (21, 31) of the device (20) and the article (30 / 100), namely, a pair of connectors at each interface (21, 31) for coupling a first carbon allotrope (103a) to the variable power generator (305), a pair of connectors at each interface (21, 31) for coupling a second carbon allotrope (103b) to the variable power generator (305), etc. In these embodiments, the interfaces (21, 31) may be structurally more complex, but since most of the components of the circuit part (300) are located in the device (20), the cost of the article (30 / 100) may be relatively reduced.

[0232] Looking at line B, this represents a second embodiment in which a variable power generator (305) is provided to the device (20), but filter arrangements (301a to 301c) and (302a to 302b) are provided to the article (30 / 100). In this embodiment, it should be recognized that a pair of electrical connectors are provided to the interfaces (21, 31) of the device (20) and the article (30 / 100), respectively, and that filtering of the AC output power signal is performed in the article (30 / 100). In these embodiments, the interfaces (21, 31) are structurally simpler, but the cost of the article (30 / 100) may be relatively increased because the filter arrangements (301a to 301c and 302a to 302b) are located in the article (30 / 100).

[0233] The above description describes only two possible configurations of the circuit section (300) distributed between the device (20) and the article (30 / 100), and it should be recognized that those skilled in the art will recognize that there are alternative methods of configuring the circuit section (300) between the device (20) and the article (30 / 100). Additionally, it should be recognized that if the aerosol delivery system (10) is a single component of an integrated device, the circuit section (300) is entirely contained within the single component system.

[0234] Accordingly, in general terms, the circuit portion (300) comprises a frequency filter arrangement (301a to 301c and 302a to 302c) configured or positioned to enable selective activation of at least one of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103b) based on the frequency of an AC output power signal output by a variable power generator (305), thereby supplying power for aerosol generation to the corresponding carbon allotrop (103a). More specifically, the frequency filter arrangement (301a to 301c and 302a to 302c) is configured to prevent the AC output power signal from being transmitted to at least one of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) based on the frequency of the AC output power signal.

[0235] The example described above considers an AC output power signal having a single frequency component. However, as discussed, an AC output power signal may have different frequency components. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the AC output power signal may have a frequency component in the range of 200 Hz to 400 Hz and a frequency component in the range of 600 Hz to 800 Hz. Using the example described above, it should be recognized that the HPF (301a) and LPF (302a) allow frequency components in the range of 200 Hz to 400 Hz to pass through the first carbon allotrope (103a) to supply energy to the first carbon allotrope (103a) while preventing other frequency components from being transmitted to the first carbon allotrope (103a), while the HPF (301c) and LPF (302c) allow frequency components in the range of 600 Hz to 800 Hz to pass through the third carbon allotrope (103c) to supply energy to the third carbon allotrope (103c) while preventing other frequency components from being transmitted to the third carbon allotrope (103c). In this way, energy can be supplied to selected carbon allotropes among the plurality of carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) to generate an aerosol to be delivered to the user. In this particular example, the aerosol delivered to the user is formed from a combination of aerosols produced by a first carbon allotrope (103a) — aerosolizing individual aerosol-generating materials (200) supplied thereto — and a third carbon allotrope (103c) — aerosolizing individual aerosol-generating materials (200) supplied thereto.

[0236] In the above example, the threshold of the LPF (302a) and the threshold of the HPF (301b) are set to be the same (e.g., 400 Hz). The same applies to the LPF (302b) and HPF (301c) (600 Hz). However, this is not necessarily required in each embodiment; for example, the threshold of the HPF (301b) may be set to be greater or smaller than the threshold of the LPF (302a). If the threshold is set to be larger, there may be a frequency range in which the AC output power signal is prevented from supplying energy to the corresponding carbon allotropes. For example, if the threshold of the LPF (302a) is set to 400 Hz and the threshold of the HPF (301b) is set to 450 Hz, the AC output power signal having a frequency of 400 Hz to 450 Hz is prevented from supplying energy to any of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c). If the threshold is set smaller, there may be a frequency range in which the AC output power signal can supply energy to multiple carbon allotropes. For example, if the threshold of the LPF (302a) is set to 400 Hz and the threshold of the HPF (301b) is set to 350 Hz, an AC output power signal having a frequency of 350 Hz to 400 Hz can be transmitted to both the first and second carbon allotropes (103a and 103b).

[0237] In some embodiments, it may be possible to omit certain of the filter arrangements (301a to 301c and 302a to 302c). For example, even if HPF (301a) is omitted, selective energy supply to the first carbon allotrope (103a) may still be allowed, but the possible range of frequencies that can pass through the first carbon allotrope (103a) is increased from the range of 200 Hz to 400 Hz when HPF (301a) is present to 0 Hz to 400 Hz when HPF (301a) is absent. Likewise, the LPF (302c) may be omitted alternatively or additionally, in which case the LPF (302c) may still allow for the selective energy supply of the third carbon allotrope (103c) even if the LPF (302c) is omitted, but the possible range of frequencies that can pass through the third carbon allotrope (103c) is increased from the range of 600 Hz to 800 Hz with the LPF (302c) to 600 Hz or higher without the LPF (302c) (up to the possible maximum frequency range of the variable power generator (305).

[0238] In other embodiments, filter arrangements may be configured to allow selective energy supply of specific carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) while allowing energy supply to the remaining carbon allotropes (103a to 103c).

[0239] FIG. 9 illustrates a first example of such an arrangement. FIG. 9 illustrates a circuit (300) similar to the circuit (300) of FIG. 8, except that the HPFs (301a to 301c) and LPFs (302b and 302c) are removed. FIG. 9 will be generally understood from FIG. 8. In this example, it should be recognized that when the frequency of the AC output power signal output by the variable power generator (305) is less than 400 Hz (i.e., the threshold of the LPF (302a) in this example), the AC output power signal can be supplied to all three carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) (note that filter arrangements are not provided for the carbon allotropes (103b and 103c)). Conversely, if the frequency of the AC output power signal output by the variable power generator (305) is greater than 400 Hz (i.e., the threshold of the LPF (302a) in this example), the AC output power signal can be supplied to the second and third carbon allotropes (103b and 103c), but cannot be supplied to the first carbon allotrop (103a) because the LPF (302a) prevents the transmission of the AC output power signal at this frequency.

[0240] According to the example of FIG. 9, the frequency filter arrangement includes a filter, such as an LPF (302a), electrically positioned between the variable power generator (305) and the first carbon allotrope (103a), and is configured to prevent the transmission of the AC output power signal to the first carbon allotrope (103a) when the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than a first threshold frequency (e.g., 400 Hz).

[0241] FIG. 10 illustrates a second example of such an arrangement. FIG. 10 illustrates a circuit (300) similar to the circuit (300) of FIG. 8, except that the HPFs (301a and 301b) and LPFs (302a to 302c) are removed. FIG. 10 will be generally understood from FIG. 8. In this example, it should be recognized that when the frequency of the AC output power signal output by the variable power generator (305) is greater than 600 Hz (i.e., the threshold of the HPF (301c) in this example), the AC output power signal can be supplied to all three carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) (note that filter arrangements are not provided for the carbon allotropes (103a and 103b)). Conversely, if the frequency of the AC output power signal output by the variable power generator (305) is less than 600 Hz (i.e., the threshold of the HPF (301c) in this example), the AC output power signal can be supplied to the first and second carbon allotropes (103a and 103b), but cannot be supplied to the third carbon allotrop (103c) because the HPF (301c) prevents the transmission of the AC output power signal at this frequency.

[0242] According to the example of FIG. 10, the frequency filter arrangement includes a filter, such as an HPF (301c), electrically positioned between the variable power generator (305) and the third carbon allotrope (103c), and is configured to prevent the transmission of the AC output power signal to the third carbon allotrope (103c) when the frequency of the AC output power signal is lower than a second threshold frequency (e.g., 600 Hz).

[0243] In both examples of FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, power may be supplied to two of the three carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) regardless of the frequency of the AC output power signal, but selective energy supply to one of the carbon allotropes (103a) / (103c) may be possible depending on the frequency of the AC output power signal generated by the variable power generator (305). In these examples, the carbon allotrop (103a) / (103c) that is selectively energized may be energized to modify the aerosol being produced. For example, this may be to impart flavor or additional flavor to the aerosol. Alternatively, or additionally, this may be intended to increase the volume of aerosol produced in a given inhalation, for example, when energy is supplied to all three carbon allotropes (103a to 103c), the volume of aerosol produced per second may be increased compared to a situation where energy is supplied to only two of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c).

[0244] In some embodiments, a circuit section (300) comprising a combination of FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10 may be implemented. For example, in this configuration, an LPF (302a) prevents an AC output power signal below a frequency threshold from supplying energy to the first carbon allotrope (103a), and an HPF (301c) prevents an AC output power signal above a frequency threshold from supplying energy to the third carbon allotrope (103c). Accordingly, using the above example values ​​for the thresholds of the LPF (302a) and HPF (301c), energy is supplied to the first and second carbon allotropes (103a, 103b) when the frequency of the AC output power signal is less than 400 Hz, energy is supplied to the second carbon allotrop (103b) when the frequency of the AC output power signal is between 400 Hz and 600 Hz, and energy is supplied to the second and third carbon allotropes (103b, 103c) when the frequency of the AC output power signal is greater than 600 Hz. In some embodiments, the threshold values ​​of the LPF (302a) and HPF (301c) may be set identically, in which case there is no selective energy supply to the second allotrope (103b) only (rather energy is supplied to the first and second carbon allotropes or the second and third carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) based on the frequency of the AC output power signal).

[0245] Accordingly, it should be recognized that, depending on the desired manner in which a plurality of aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103) are selectively energized, a person skilled in the art may configure the circuit (300) using filter arrangements (301a to 302c) to achieve the desired effect. In particular, this is realized by selecting whether to provide a specific HPF (301a to 301c) or LPF (302a to 302c) and by selecting a corresponding threshold value for each of the HPFs / LPFs used. Thus, by configuring the circuit (300) as desired (i.e., configuring the hardware accordingly), selective energy supply to one or more of the plurality of aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103) is possible simply by controlling the frequency of the AC output power signal.

[0246] Additionally, although the above discussion has focused on embodiments having three aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103), it should be recognized that the principles of the present disclosure may be applied to any number of aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103) greater than two. For example, in some embodiments, there may be a circuit section (300) comprising five carbon allotropes, and likewise, selective energy supply of one or more of the five carbon allotropes may be realized by selecting an appropriate filter arrangement.

[0247] FIGS. 8 through 10 illustrate examples in which the filter arrangement includes HPFs (301a through 301c) and / or LPFs (302a through 302c), but FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary arrangement of the circuit section (300) of FIG. 8 in which the HPFs (301a through 301c) and / or LPFs (302a through 302c) are replaced by band-pass filters (303a through 303c) (referred to herein as BPFs). The BPFs (303) operate in a manner similar to the combination of HPFs (301) and LPFs (302). That is, the BPFs (303) operate to allow an AC output power signal having a frequency (i.e., a band of frequencies) between a lower threshold and an upper threshold. HPFs (301) and LPFs (302) operate to allow an alternating output power signal having a frequency within a similar frequency range to pass through the connected carbon allotrope (103). For example, a combination of HPF (301a) and LPF (302a) allows an alternating output power signal having a frequency between 200 Hz and 400 Hz to pass through the first carbon allotrope (103a). In a similar manner, BPF (303a) operates to allow a band of frequencies, such as a band spanning from 200 Hz to 400 Hz, to pass through the first carbon allotrope (103a). The difference here is that BPF (303a) is a single electronic component, whereas HPFs (301a) and LPFs (302a) are separate individual components. Similar alternatives may be made for the HPF (301b) and LPF (302b) as a BPF (303b) (allowing a band of 400 Hz to 600 Hz), and for the HPF (301c) and LPF (302c) as a BPF (303c) (allowing a band of 600 Hz to 800 Hz). Thus, to reduce the number of parts, BPFs (303) may be used instead of a combination of HPFs (301) and LPFs (302).

[0248] In particular, in embodiments intended to provide energy to one of the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) at any given time, the thresholds of the HPFs (301), LPFs (302), or BPFs (303) are set accordingly. It may be appropriate to define a sequence of filters / thresholds in such an arrangement. For the first carbon allotrop (103a), a first threshold (200 Hz) (optional) corresponding to the HPF (301a) and a second threshold (400 Hz) corresponding to the LPF (302a) are provided, wherein the second threshold is greater than the first threshold. Additionally, a third threshold (400 Hz) corresponding to the HPF (301b) is provided, which is greater than the second threshold, and a fourth threshold (600 Hz) corresponding to the LPF (302b) is provided, wherein the fourth threshold is greater than the second and / or third thresholds. Additionally, a fifth threshold (600 Hz) corresponding to the HPF (301c) is provided, which is greater than the fourth threshold, and a sixth threshold (800 Hz) (optional) corresponding to the LPF (302b) is provided, which is greater than the fifth threshold. This configuration can be repeated for any number of aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103) and can provide energy to one of the aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103) (where the AC output power signal contains a single frequency component). However, as described above, different configurations of the thresholds and filter arrangements may be possible to achieve different effects and, accordingly, different aerosols to be delivered to the user.

[0249] In the examples of FIGS. 8 through 11, an AC output power signal is provided to the carbon allotropes (103a through 103c) where the frequency is sufficient to be transmitted by individual filter arrangements (301a through 303c). That is, an AC power signal (i.e., an AC current and / or voltage) is provided to the carbon allotropes (103) to heat them. However, in some examples, it may be preferable or appropriate to first convert the AC output power signal into a DC current and then provide the DC current to the carbon allotropes (103) to heat them.

[0250] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates an example of this arrangement. FIG. 12 shows the circuit section (300), which will be generally understood from FIG. 8. The circuit section (300) of FIG. 12 is identical to the circuit section of FIG. 8 except that AC-DC converters (304a, 304b, and (304c) are positioned between LPFs (302a to 302c) and carbon allotropes (103a to 103c) on each branched line of the circuit section (300). The AC-DC converters (304a to 304c) convert the received AC output power signal that has passed through the corresponding LPFs (302a to 302c) into a DC signal, and this DC signal is subsequently supplied to the carbon allotropes (103a to 103c). Any suitable AC-DC converter (304a to 304c) may be implemented according to the principles of the present disclosure. The AC-DC converters (304a to 304c) are as shown in FIG. 12 It may be part of an item (30 / 100) or part of a device (20).

[0251] FIGS. 8 through 12 show that the circuit section (300) has common lines / wires extending from the variable power generator (305) and that each of the aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103) branches off from it, but in other embodiments, the circuit section (300) may be configured differently. For example, in some embodiments, the variable power generator (305) may be provided with multiple channels (or outputs), and each aerosol generator (102) (or groups of aerosol generators (102)) is coupled separately to each channel. In these embodiments, the variable power generator (305) is configured to output an AC output power signal at each of the outputs, so that the entire circuit section (300) functions in a manner similar to that described above. It should be recognized that a person skilled in the art will be able to easily recognize minor variations and modifications to the circuit part (300) described above that can achieve the same function.

[0252] FIG. 13 is an example of a non-therapeutic method for selectively activating one or more of the aerosol generators (102) / carbon allotropes (103) of the aerosol delivery system (10) described above.

[0253] The method begins at step S1, where a frequency filter arrangement (e.g., HPFs (301) and LPFs (302)) is provided and the frequency filter arrangement is electrically coupled to a variable power generator (305) (configured to generate an AC output power signal at a variable frequency as described above) and a plurality of aerosol generators (102). As described above, this may include coupling an article (100) (including electrically connected aerosol generators (102) and frequency filter arrangement (301 / 302)) to an aerosol providing device (20) (including the variable power generator (305)).

[0254] In step S2, the method proceeds to the step of generating an AC output power signal at a given variable frequency using a variable power generator (305). As described above, the variable power generator (305) is configured to generate an AC output power signal containing one or more components at a given frequency, for example, between a range of possible output frequencies. The variable power generator (305) may be programmed by a user, in which case, in step S2, the method proceeds to the step of obtaining input from the user, or may be programmed to operate based on default or pre-programmed frequencies. The variable power generator (305) may be controlled to output an AC output power signal in response to detecting the user's intention to activate aerosol generation (e.g., detected inhalation in the aerosol delivery system (10) or pressing of a button or other user input mechanism).

[0255] The AC output power signal generated in step S2 is applied to the circuit section (300). In step S3, the method performs the step of filtering the AC output power signal using a frequency filter arrangement (301 / 302) based on the frequency of the AC output power signal. As described above, based on the configuration of the frequency filter arrangement (301 / 302), specific frequency components of the AC output power signal are provided to specific ones among the aerosol generators (102) so as to selectively supply energy to specific ones among the plurality of aerosol generators (102).

[0256] Although not shown in FIG. 13, when an aerosol is generated (e.g., after a predetermined time from the detected start of user inhalation and / or when the user stops inhaling from the aerosol supply system (10)), the variable power generator (305) stops outputting an alternating current output power signal. The method can then return to step S2 to wait for the next detection of the user's intention to activate aerosol generation.

[0257] Accordingly, in a manner similar to the above, the method of FIG. 13 can selectively supply energy to one or more of the aerosol generators (102) to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material (200) supplied to the aerosol generator (102). Accordingly, the aerosol delivered to the user from the aerosol delivery system (10) can be changed or customized (e.g., based on user preferences / requests).

[0258] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a non-combustible aerosol providing system (10) is provided, comprising an article (30 / 100) and an aerosol providing device (20) including a power source. As in the examples above, the aerosol providing device (20) and the article (30 / 100) are separable from each other, and one (e.g., article (30 / 100)) can be replaced independently of the aerosol providing device (20).

[0259] More generally, the device may be intended to accommodate an article (30 / 100). In some embodiments, the device may surround the article (30 / 100). In some embodiments, the device (20) may include a mouthpiece (e.g., a mouthpiece surrounding the article (30 / 100)), or alternatively, the mouthpiece may form part of the article (30 / 100).

[0260] In some embodiments, the aerosol providing device (20) includes a frequency filter arrangement (301 / 302). In other embodiments, the article (30 / 100) includes a frequency filter arrangement (301 / 302). In some embodiments, the article (30 / 100) may include a variable power generator (305).

[0261] In other embodiments, the device (20) and the article (30 / 100) may be formed as a single structure (i.e., the device (20) and the article (30 / 100) are formed integrally as an aerosol providing system (10). The system may include any feature or feature of the system described herein.

[0262] In another aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol providing means (including an aerosol providing system (10)) configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material is provided. The aerosol providing means comprises: a variable power generator means (variable power generator (305)) configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; a plurality of aerosol generator means (including a plurality of aerosol generators (102)) electrically coupled to the variable power generator means and configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided — the plurality of aerosol generator means comprises at least a first aerosol generator means and a second aerosol generator means —; and frequency filter means electrically coupled to variable power generator means (including one or more of HPFs (301a to 301c), LPFs (302a to 302c) and BPFs (303a to 303c), wherein the frequency filter means is configured to filter an output power signal applied to the frequency filter means based on the frequency of the output power signal. The frequency filter means is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator means and the second aerosol generator means based on the frequency of the output power signal.

[0263] Accordingly, an aerosol delivery system configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material has been described. The aerosol delivery system comprises: a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; a plurality of aerosol generators electrically coupled to the variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied—the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator—; and a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to the variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter the output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal. The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal. An aerosol delivery device, consumables, and a method of operation are also described.

[0264] Any aspect of the present disclosure may be defined in relation to any of the other aspects of the present disclosure. For example, one aspect of the present disclosure may include any of the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure and / or the features of one aspect of the present disclosure may be as defined in relation to the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

[0265] The various examples described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These examples are provided only as representative samples of examples and are not complete or / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein are not to be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents thereof, and that other examples may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various examples of the present disclosure may suitably include, be composed of, or be composed of other disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein, or may be composed of such elements as essential elements. Additionally, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

[0266] The aspects of the above disclosure may be summarized in accordance with the following numbered provisions:

[0267] 1. An aerosol delivery system configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating material,

[0268] A variable power generator configured to generate an AC output power signal at a variable frequency;

[0269] A plurality of aerosol generators electrically coupled to a variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied — the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator —; and

[0270] It includes a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to a variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter an output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal, and

[0271] The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable the selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal (e.g., positioned to do so).

[0272] 2. In the aerosol supply system of Clause 1, the frequency filter arrangement is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal.

[0273] 3. In the aerosol providing system of Clause 2, the frequency filter arrangement includes a first frequency filter arrangement configured to allow the transmission of an output power signal of a first frequency to a first aerosol generator, and the frequency filter arrangement includes a second frequency filter arrangement configured to allow the transmission of an output power signal of a second frequency to a second aerosol generator, wherein the first frequency and the second frequency are different.

[0274] 4. In any one of the aerosol supply systems of Clauses 1 to 3, the frequency filter arrangement comprises a first filter electrically positioned between a variable power generator and a first aerosol generator, and the first filter is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to the first aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is greater than a first threshold frequency.

[0275] 5. In any one of the aerosol providing systems of Clauses 1 to 4, the frequency filter arrangement comprises a second filter electrically positioned between a variable power generator and a second aerosol generator, and the second filter is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to the second aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is lower than a second threshold frequency.

[0276] 6. In the aerosol delivery system of Clause 5, when citing Clause 4, the first threshold frequency is less than or equal to the second threshold frequency.

[0277] 7. In the aerosol providing system of Clause 5 or Clause 6, the frequency filter arrangement comprises a third filter electrically positioned between the second filter and the second aerosol generator, the third filter being configured to prevent transmission of the output power signal to the second aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is greater than a third threshold frequency, and the third threshold frequency is greater than the second threshold frequency.

[0278] 8. In the aerosol providing system of Clause 6, the second filter and the third filter are implemented as bandpass filters configured to allow the transmission of the output power signal to the second aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is above the second threshold frequency and below the third threshold frequency.

[0279] 9. An aerosol providing system of any one of clauses 1 through 8 further comprises a third aerosol generator electrically coupled to a variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided, and a frequency filter arrangement comprises a fourth filter electrically positioned between the variable power generator and the third aerosol generator, wherein the fourth filter is configured to prevent the transmission of an output power signal to the third aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is lower than a fourth threshold frequency.

[0280] 10. In the aerosol delivery system of Clause 9, when citing any one of Clauses 7 to 8, the third threshold frequency is less than or equal to the fourth threshold frequency.

[0281] 11. In any one of the aerosol providing systems of Clauses 1 to 10, a variable power generator comprises a common output signal line, each of a plurality of aerosol generators is coupled to the common output signal line through individual branched connection lines, and a frequency filter arrangement is positioned on at least one of the branched connection lines.

[0282] 12. In any one of the aerosol providing systems of Clauses 1 to 11, the variable power generator is configured to generate an alternating current output power signal having a frequency of 0 Hz to 10 kHz, 0 Hz to 5 kHz, 0 Hz to 2 kHz, or 0 to 1 kHz.

[0283] 13. In any one of the aerosol supply systems of Clauses 1 through 12, the variable power generator is configured to generate an alternating current output power signal of a single but variable frequency.

[0284] 14. In any one of the aerosol supply systems of Clauses 1 to 12, the variable power generator is configured to generate an alternating current output power signal having a plurality of frequency components.

[0285] 15. In any one of the aerosol providing systems of Clauses 1 through 14, a plurality of aerosol generators are configured to selectively receive an alternating current output power signal to generate an aerosol.

[0286] 16. Any one of the aerosol supply systems of Articles 1 through 14 further comprises one or more AC-DC converters, each of which is electrically supplied between a frequency filter arrangement and one of a plurality of aerosol generators, and the AC-DC converter is configured to selectively receive an AC output power signal and convert the AC output power signal into a DC output power signal supplied to one of the plurality of aerosol generators to generate an aerosol.

[0287] 17. In any one of the aerosol providing systems of Clauses 1 through 16, each of the plurality of aerosol generators is fluidically coupled to a source of aerosol-generating material, and when power is supplied to each individual aerosol generator, each individual aerosol generator can generate an aerosol from each source of aerosol-generating material.

[0288] 18. In the aerosol delivery system of Clause 17, different aerosol-generating materials are provided to each of the sources of aerosol-generating materials, and accordingly, the aerosol-generating materials differ in at least one of the components, flavoring agents, percentages of flavoring agents, active ingredients, and percentages of active ingredients.

[0289] 19. In any one of the aerosol providing systems of Clauses 1 to 18, a plurality of aerosol generators include allotropes of carbon.

[0290] 20. In the aerosol delivery system of Clause 19, the allotrope of carbon comprises disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon.

[0291] 21. In an aerosol providing system according to either Clause 19 or Clause 20, the Raman spectrum of an allotrope of carbon includes a G band and a D band, and the G band peak is at approximately 1500 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1650 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the D-band peak is approximately 1250 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1400 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the intensity of the D-band peak I D Intensity of the G band peak I G Of I D / I G is about 0.8 to about 2, preferably about 1 to about 1.8.

[0292] 22. An aerosol delivery device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material,

[0293] A variable power generator configured to generate an AC output power signal at a variable frequency ― the variable power generator is configured to be electrically coupled to a plurality of aerosol generators configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied, wherein the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator ―; and

[0294] It includes a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to a variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter an output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal, and

[0295] The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable the selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal (e.g., positioned to do so).

[0296] 23. Consumables for use with an aerosol providing device to generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials are,

[0297] A plurality of aerosol generators that can be electrically coupled to a variable power generator configured to generate an AC output power signal at a variable frequency — the plurality of aerosol generators are configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied, and the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator —; and

[0298] It includes a frequency filter arrangement that can be electrically coupled to a variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter an output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal, and

[0299] The frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable the selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal (e.g., positioned to do so).

[0300] 24. A non-therapeutic method for selectively activating a plurality of aerosol generators of an aerosol providing system to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, wherein the plurality of aerosol generators includes at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator, and the method comprises

[0301] A step of providing an electrically coupled frequency filter arrangement to a variable power generator configured to generate an AC output power signal at a variable frequency;

[0302] Step of generating an AC output power signal at a variable frequency; and

[0303] The method includes the step of filtering the output power signal based on the frequency of the output power signal and selectively providing the output power signal to at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator.

[0304] 25. An aerosol providing means configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material,

[0305] Variable power generator means configured to generate an AC output power signal at a variable frequency;

[0306] A plurality of aerosol generator means electrically coupled to a variable power generator means and configured to generate an aerosol when power is supplied — the plurality of aerosol generator means include at least a first aerosol generator means and a second aerosol generator means —; and

[0307] It includes a frequency filter means electrically coupled to a variable power generator means, wherein the frequency filter means is configured to filter an output power signal applied to the frequency filter means based on the frequency of the output power signal, and

[0308] The frequency filter means is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator means and the second aerosol generator means based on the frequency of the output power signal (e.g., positioned to do so).

Claims

Claim 1 An aerosol providing system configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, comprising: a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; a plurality of aerosol generators electrically coupled to the variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided — the plurality of aerosol generators include at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator —; and a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to the variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter the output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal, and the frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal. Claim 2 In claim 1, the frequency filter arrangement is configured to prevent the transmission of the output power signal to at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal, optionally the frequency filter arrangement includes a first frequency filter arrangement configured to allow the transmission of the output power signal of a first frequency to the first aerosol generator, and the frequency filter arrangement includes a second frequency filter arrangement configured to allow the transmission of the output power signal of a second frequency to the second aerosol generator, wherein the first frequency and the second frequency are different, an aerosol providing system. Claim 3 An aerosol providing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the frequency filter arrangement comprises a first filter electrically positioned between the variable power generator and the first aerosol generator, and the first filter is configured to prevent the transmission of the output power signal to the first aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is greater than a first threshold frequency. Claim 4 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the frequency filter arrangement comprises a second filter electrically positioned between the variable power generator and the second aerosol generator, and the second filter is configured to prevent the transmission of the output power signal to the second aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is lower than a second threshold frequency. Claim 5 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a third aerosol generator electrically coupled to the variable power generator and configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided, wherein the frequency filter arrangement comprises a fourth filter electrically positioned between the variable power generator and the third aerosol generator, and wherein the fourth filter is configured to prevent the transmission of the output power signal to the third aerosol generator when the frequency of the output power signal is lower than a fourth threshold frequency. Claim 6 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the variable power generator includes a common output signal line, each of the plurality of aerosol generators is coupled to the common output signal line through individual branched connection lines, and the frequency filter arrangement is positioned on at least one of the branched connection lines. Claim 7 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the variable power generator is configured to generate the alternating current output power signal having a frequency of 0 Hz to 10 kHz, 0 Hz to 5 kHz, 0 Hz to 2 kHz, or 0 to 1 kHz. Claim 8 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the variable power generator is configured to generate the alternating current output power signal of a single but variable frequency, or the variable power generator is configured to generate the alternating current output power signal having a plurality of frequency components. Claim 9 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of aerosol generators are configured to selectively receive the alternating current output power signal to generate an aerosol. Claim 10 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising one or more AC-DC converters, wherein each of the AC-DC converters is electrically provided between the frequency filter arrangement and one of the plurality of aerosol generators, and the AC-DC converter is configured to selectively receive the AC output power signal and convert the AC output power signal into a DC output power signal provided to one of the plurality of aerosol generators to generate an aerosol. Claim 11 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each of the plurality of aerosol generators is fluidly coupled to a source of aerosol-generating material, and when power is supplied to each of the aerosol generators, each of the aerosol generators can generate an aerosol from each of the sources of the aerosol-generating material, optionally, a different aerosol-generating material is provided to each of the sources of the aerosol-generating material, and accordingly, the aerosol-generating material is different in at least one of the components, flavoring agent, percentage of flavoring agent, active ingredient, and percentage of active ingredient. Claim 12 An aerosol providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the plurality of aerosol generators comprise allotropes of carbon. Claim 13 In claim 12, the aerosol providing system wherein the allotrope of carbon comprises disordered graphite and / or amorphous carbon. Claim 14 In claim 12 or 13, the Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon comprises a G band and a D band, and the G band peak is approximately 1500 cm⁻¹ -1 to about 1650 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range, and the D-band peak is approximately 1250 cm⁻¹. -1 to about 1400 cm -1 It is within the Raman shift range of, and the intensity I of the D-band peak D The intensity of the above G band peak I G Of I D / I G An aerosol providing system, wherein the amount is about 0.8 to about 2, preferably about 1 to about 1.

8. Claim 15 An aerosol providing device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, comprising: a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency ― said variable power generator is configured to be electrically coupled to a plurality of aerosol generators configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided, said plurality of aerosol generators including at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator ―; and a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to said variable power generator, said frequency filter arrangement being configured to filter the output power signal applied to said frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of said output power signal, said frequency filter arrangement being configured to enable selective activation of at least one of said first aerosol generator and said second aerosol generator based on the frequency of said output power signal. Claim 16 A consumable for use with an aerosol providing device to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, comprising: a plurality of aerosol generators electrically coupled to a variable power generator configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency—the plurality of aerosol generators configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided, and the plurality of aerosol generators including at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator—; and a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to the variable power generator, wherein the frequency filter arrangement is configured to filter the output power signal applied to the frequency filter arrangement based on the frequency of the output power signal, and the frequency filter arrangement is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator based on the frequency of the output power signal. Claim 17 A non-therapeutic method for selectively activating a plurality of aerosol generators of an aerosol providing system to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, wherein the plurality of aerosol generators includes at least a first aerosol generator and a second aerosol generator, and the method comprises: providing a frequency filter arrangement electrically coupled to a variable power generator configured to generate an AC output power signal at a variable frequency; generating the AC output power signal at a variable frequency; and filtering the output power signal based on the frequency of the output power signal and selectively providing the output power signal to at least one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator. Claim 18 An aerosol providing means configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, comprising: a variable power generator means configured to generate an alternating current output power signal at a variable frequency; a plurality of aerosol generator means electrically coupled to the variable power generator means and configured to generate an aerosol when power is provided — the plurality of aerosol generator means include at least a first aerosol generator means and a second aerosol generator means —; and a frequency filter means electrically coupled to the variable power generator means, wherein the frequency filter means is configured to filter the output power signal applied to the frequency filter means based on the frequency of the output power signal, and the frequency filter means is configured to enable selective activation of at least one of the first aerosol generator means and the second aerosol generator means based on the frequency of the output power signal.

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