Electrically operated aerosol generating system having means for detecting a tubular aerosol generating article

Abstract

An electrically operated aerosol generating system (401) comprises a main unit (403) and a tubular aerosol generating article (402). The main unit comprises a heating portion (410) arranged at an outer surface of the main unit (403). The heating portion (410) comprises one or more electric heaters. The tubular aerosol generating article (402) comprises a tubular aerosol-forming substrate and an internal passage, wherein the internal passage is configured to receive the heating portion (410) of the main unit. The one or more electric heaters of the heating portion (410) of the main unit are arranged to heat the tubular aerosol-forming substrate when the tubular aerosol generating article (402) is received on the heating portion (410) of the main unit (403). The aerosol generating system (401) further comprises means (421, 422) for determining that the tubular aerosol generating article (402) is received on the heating portion (410) of the main unit (403).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrically operated aerosol generating system. In particular, the present invention relates to an electrically operated aerosol generating system comprising a tubular aerosol generating article and a main unit. Background Art

[0002] Known handheld electrically operated aerosol generating systems typically include an aerosol generating device or main unit, which includes a battery, control electronics and an electric heater for heating an aerosol generating article specifically designed for use with the aerosol generating device. In some examples, the aerosol generating article includes an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco rod or a tobacco plug. An aerosol-forming substrate, such as tobacco, typically includes one or more volatile compounds that form an aerosol when heated inside the aerosol generating device. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, a heater contained in the aerosol generating device is inserted into or surrounds the aerosol-forming substrate. In some electrically operated aerosol generating systems, the aerosol generating article may include a capsule containing an aerosol-forming substrate, such as loose tobacco.

[0003] There is a need to provide a system that improves heat transfer between the electric heater and the aerosol-generating article.There is a need to provide a system that prevents power from being supplied to the electric heater when the aerosol-generating article is not fully received by the main unit.

[0004] In addition, existing systems can enable the main unit to be used with different aerosol-generating articles. Tubular aerosol-generating articles may include aerosol-forming substrates with different compositions. Some aerosol-forming substrates may not be suitable for use with some aerosol-generating systems. For example, some aerosol-forming substrates may be damaged or destroyed by high temperatures. Manufacturers of aerosol-generating systems may authorize certain aerosol-forming substrates for use in their aerosol-generating systems. Authorized aerosol-forming substrates may have suitable properties for use in an aerosol-generating system. However, a user may place a tubular aerosol-generating article with an unauthorized and unsuitable aerosol-forming substrate on the main unit. Some unauthorized aerosol-forming substrates may damage the aerosol-generating system. Some unauthorized aerosol-forming substrates may be hazardous to the user.

[0005] There is a need for systems that can differentiate between aerosol-generating articles. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electrically operated aerosol generating system comprising a main unit and a tubular aerosol generating article. The main unit comprises a heating portion arranged at an outer surface of the main unit. The heating portion comprises one or more electric heaters. The tubular aerosol generating article comprises a tubular aerosol-forming substrate and an internal passage, wherein the internal passage is configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit. The one or more electric heaters of the heating portion of the main unit are arranged to heat the tubular aerosol-forming substrate when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit. The aerosol generating system further comprises means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

[0007] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" is used to describe an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, releases volatile compounds that can form an aerosol.

[0008] As used herein, the term "main unit" is used to describe a device that interacts with a tubular aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. The main unit typically contains a power source of electrical energy, and associated circuitry for operating one or more heating elements.

[0009] As used herein, the terms "interior" and "exterior" refer to the relative positions of parts of a tubular aerosol-generating article or main unit.

[0010] As used herein, the term "inner surface" refers to a surface of an article or primary unit that faces the interior of the article or primary unit. For example, the interior passageway of a tubular aerosol-generating article may be defined by an inner surface. Similarly, the term "outer surface" refers to a surface of an article or primary unit that faces outward or away from the system. For example, the heating portion of the primary unit is disposed on an outer surface of the primary unit. Thus, one or more electric heaters are disposed on an outer surface of the primary unit and may be visible to a user when the tubular aerosol-generating article is not received on the heating portion of the primary unit.

[0011] The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit may enable the aerosol-generating system to inform a user when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit. In other words, this may enable the aerosol-generating system to determine when the tubular aerosol-generating article is correctly arranged on the main unit for use.

[0012] The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit may comprise a sensor. Suitable sensors include, for example, light sensors, proximity sensors and pressure sensors.

[0013] The sensor may be arranged at any suitable location on the main unit. The sensor may be arranged at or towards the proximal end of the main unit. The sensor may be arranged between the heating portion and the proximal end of the main unit. The sensor may be arranged proximal to the heating portion. The sensor may be arranged at or towards the heating portion of the main unit. The sensor may be arranged on an outer surface of the main unit. The sensor may be arranged at or towards the end of the heating portion. The sensor may be arranged distal to the heating portion. The sensor may be arranged between the heating portion and the distal end of the main unit. Where the main unit includes a shoulder between the heating portion and the distal portion of the main unit, the sensor may be arranged at the shoulder.

[0014] As used herein, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are used to describe the relative positions of components or parts of an aerosol-generating system, aerosol-generating article, or main unit of the present invention. As used herein, the "proximal" end of the system is the end on which a user can draw suction in order to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating system during use. The "proximal" end may also be referred to as the mouth end. The "distal" end of the aerosol-generating system is the end opposite the "proximal" end. The "distal" end is the end farthest from the user during use.

[0015] The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit may further comprise circuitry configured to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit based on a signal received from the sensor.

[0016] The main unit may comprise circuitry configured to prevent power from being supplied to the one or more electric heaters when the means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit determines that the tubular aerosol-generating article is not received on the heating portion of the main unit. This may substantially prevent power from being supplied to the one or more electric heaters when the one or more electric heaters are not fully covered by the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0017] For example, where the tubular aerosol-generating article is opaque, the main unit may include a means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit in the form of a light sensor. The main unit may include a shoulder, and the light sensor may be disposed at the shoulder of the main unit. When the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit, the light sensor may be disposed so as to be substantially covered or obscured by the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article. The main unit may further include circuitry configured to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit based on measurements from the light sensor. The circuitry may be configured to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit when the intensity of light sensed by the light sensor is below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may correspond to the lowest intensity expected to be sensed by the light sensor when the light sensor is not covered by the tubular aerosol-generating article. The circuitry may be configured to prevent power from being supplied to the one or more electric heaters until the circuitry determines that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion. When the circuitry determines that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion, the circuitry may be configured to enable power to be supplied to the one or more electric heaters.

[0018] The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit may include: a first electrical contact disposed on the main unit; and a second electrical contact disposed on the main unit, the second electrical contact being spaced apart from the first electrical contact. The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit may further include circuitry configured to sense an electrical connection between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, and to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating device is received on the heating portion of the main unit based on the sensed electrical connection.

[0019] The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise an electrically conductive material.The electrically conductive material may be arranged on the tubular aerosol-generating article to electrically connect the first and second electrical contacts of the main unit when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

[0020] The electrical contacts may be arranged at any suitable location on the main unit. The electrical contacts may be arranged at or towards the proximal end of the main unit. The electrical contacts may be arranged proximal to the heating portion. The electrical contacts may be arranged between the heating portion and the proximal end of the main unit. The electrical contacts may be arranged at or towards the heating portion of the main unit. The electrical contacts may be arranged on an outer surface of the main unit. The electrical contacts may be arranged at or towards the end of the heating portion. The electrical contacts may be arranged distal to the heating portion. The electrical contacts may be arranged between the heating portion and the distal end of the main unit. When the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion, the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article abuts a shoulder of the main unit. If the main unit includes a shoulder, the electrical contacts may be arranged at the shoulder.

[0021] The electrical contacts may have any suitable shape. The electrical contacts may be elongated. The electrical contacts may include one or more elongated strips. The one or more elongated strips may be arranged at the outer surface of the main unit. The one or more elongated strips may extend substantially the length of the heating portion. The electrical contacts may be substantially annular. The electrical contacts may include one or more annular rings. The one or more rings may substantially surround a portion of the outer surface of the main unit. When the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion, the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article abuts a shoulder of the main unit. Where the main unit includes a shoulder, the electrical contacts may include one or more rings that substantially surround a portion of the shoulder. The electrical contacts may have the same shape. The electrical contacts may have different shapes.

[0022] The electrical contacts may be spaced apart in any suitable direction on the main unit. The electrical contacts may be spaced apart along the length of the main unit. The first electrical contact may be arranged proximal to the second electrical contact. The electrical contacts may be spaced apart around the circumference of the main unit.

[0023] The conductive material may comprise any suitable material. Suitable conductive materials include metals, alloys, conductive ceramics, and conductive polymers. As used herein with respect to the present invention, a conductive material refers to a material having a conductivity of less than about 1 x 10 -5 Ωm, usually around 1x 10 -5 Ωm and about 1x 10 -9 The conductive material may include a material with a volume resistivity between 100 Ωm and 100 Ωm. The material may include gold and platinum. The conductive material may be coated with a passivation layer. The conductive material may include or be coated with a sufficiently non-reactive material to avoid reacting with or contaminating the tubular aerosol-forming substrate. The conductive material may include a transparent or translucent material. For example, a suitable transparent material may be indium tin oxide (ITO).

[0024] The conductive material may be arranged at any suitable location on the tubular aerosol-generating article. The conductive material may be arranged at or towards the ends of the tubular aerosol-generating article. The conductive material may be arranged at the end faces of the tubular aerosol-generating article. The conductive material may be arranged at the inner surface of the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article. The conductive material may be arranged at or towards the ends of the internal passageway. The conductive material may be arranged at or towards the middle of the length of the internal passageway. Where the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises two open ends configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit, the conductive material may be arranged at both ends of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0025] The conductive material may have any suitable shape. The conductive material may be elongated. The conductive material may include one or more elongated strips. The one or more elongated strips may be arranged at the inner surface of the internal passageway. The one or more elongated strips may extend substantially the length of the internal passageway. The conductive material may be substantially annular. The conductive material may include one or more annular rings. The one or more rings may substantially surround a portion of the inner surface of the internal passageway. The one or more rings may substantially surround a portion of at least one end surface of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0026] The electrical contacts and the conductive material can be shaped and arranged so that when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit, the conductive material can electrically connect the spaced-apart electrical contacts. For example, where the electrical contacts are annular electrical contacts spaced along the length of the main unit, the conductive material can be an elongated strip extending along the length of the internal passageway. In another example, when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion, the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article abuts a shoulder of the main unit, and where the main unit includes a shoulder, the conductive material comprises one or more rings surrounding at least one end face of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0027] Providing at least one of an annular conductive material surrounding the interior passage or end face of the tubular aerosol generating article and an annular electrical contact surrounding the outer surface of the main unit or the shoulder of the main unit may not require maintaining a specific rotational orientation of the tubular aerosol generating article relative to the main unit after the main unit is inserted into the interior passage of the tubular aerosol generating article.

[0028] The main unit may include means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article. Identifying the tubular aerosol-generating article may enable the main unit to identify an unsuitable, unauthorized, or unknown tubular aerosol-generating article received on the heating portion of the main unit. This may substantially prevent or discourage the use of aerosol-generating articles that may cause damage to the main unit. This may substantially prevent or discourage the use of aerosol-generating articles that are potentially harmful to the user. The identification of the tubular aerosol-generating article received on the heating portion may also enable the aerosol-generating system to distinguish between suitable or authentic aerosol-generating articles. This may enable the aerosol-generating system to operate in different modes depending on the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "determining an identity" and "identifying" are used to describe the verification, authentication, or identification of a tubular aerosol-generating article. For example, identifying the tubular aerosol-generating article may include determining at least one of the composition of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate and the origin or authenticity of the tubular aerosol-generating article. Similarly, the term "identifying" is used to describe at least one of the composition of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate and the suitability and authenticity of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0030] The tubular aerosol-generating article may include an identifier. The tubular aerosol-generating article may be marked with an identifier. Any suitable identifier may be used. For example, the identifier may be a visual identifier, such as a barcode or an alphanumeric code. The identifier may be unique for each specific aerosol-generating article. The identifier may be unique for each type of aerosol-generating article. In another example, the identifier may be the same for aerosol-generating articles that include an aerosol-forming substrate having the same composition.

[0031] The identifier may be disposed at any suitable location on the tubular aerosol-generating article. The identifier may be disposed on the inner surface of the internal passageway. The identifier may be disposed at any suitable location along the length of the internal passageway. The identifier may be disposed at an end face of the tubular aerosol-generating article. Where the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises two open ends configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit, the identifier may be disposed at both open ends.

[0032] The means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article may be configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on the identifier. The means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article may include means for reading the identifier. The means for reading the identifier may include any suitable means for reading the identifier, such as optical scanning, digital photography and image processing, or magnetic scanning. The means for reading the identifier may be an optical scanner. The means for reading the identifier may be arranged on the main unit similar to the sensor described above with respect to the means for determining when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heated portion of the main unit.

[0033] The means for reading the identifier may comprise a sensor. The means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise circuitry configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on a signal received from the sensor. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an identifier arranged to be sensed by the sensor when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

[0034] For example, the means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise an optical sensor and circuitry configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on a signal received from the optical sensor. The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise a visual identifier, such as a barcode, arranged to be sensed by the optical sensor when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received by the heating portion of the main unit.

[0035] The apparatus for determining the identity of a tubular aerosol-generating article may include a first electrical contact disposed on a main unit and a second electrical contact disposed on the main unit and spaced apart from the first electrical contact. The tubular aerosol-generating article may include an electrical identifier, such as a strip of conductive material. The conductive material may be disposed on the tubular aerosol-generating article to electrically connect the first and second electrical contacts of the main unit when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit. The apparatus for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article may further include circuitry configured to sense an electrical charge between the first and second electrical contacts and determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on the sensed electrical charge.

[0036] The electrical contacts and the conductive material may be shaped and arranged as described above with respect to the means for determining that a tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit. The electrical contacts and the conductive material of the means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article may also be the electrical contacts and the conductive material of the means for determining that a tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

[0037] The main unit may include circuitry configured to sense an electrical connection between the first and second electrical contacts. The main unit may be configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on the sensed electrical connection. In other words, the presence of the electrical connection may indicate that the aerosol-generating article is an authentic aerosol-generating article produced by an authorized manufacturer of aerosol-generating systems.

[0038] The main unit may comprise an electrical circuit configured to measure an electrical charge between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact.The electrical circuit may be configured to determine an identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on the measured electrical charge.

[0039] As used herein, the term "electrical quantity" is used to describe any electrical characteristic, parameter, or property of a system that can be quantified by a measurement value. Suitable "electrical quantities" include, for example, impedance, capacitance, and resistance. A circuit can be configured to measure at least one of impedance, capacitance, and resistance.

[0040] The circuitry may be configured to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit and to identify the tubular aerosol-generating article using the same electrical contacts on the main unit and the conductive material on the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0041] The main unit may include circuitry configured to determine, based on the measured charge information, whether the tubular aerosol-generating article received on the heating portion is a tubular aerosol-generating article produced or approved by the manufacturer of the aerosol-generating system. In other words, the circuitry may be configured to determine whether the tubular aerosol-generating article is authentic.

[0042] The circuitry may be configured to identify whether the sensed information matches an expected value or range of values ​​for a reliable aerosol-generating article suitable for use with the primary unit. For example, the circuitry may be configured to identify whether the measured charge information matches an expected value or range of values ​​for a reliable aerosol-generating article suitable for use with the primary unit.

[0043] The reference identification information may be stored in a memory of the circuit. The reference aerosol-generating article identification information may be associated with the reference measurement information. For example, the reference identification information may be associated with the reference electrical quantity information. The circuit may be configured to compare the sensed information with the stored reference measurement information. The circuit may be configured to associate the sensed information with the stored reference aerosol-generating article identification information based on a match.

[0044] The reference information may be information that has been previously measured by the circuit and stored in a memory of the circuit.This may enable the identification of the aerosol-generating article received on the heating portion to be reliable for each specific primary unit.

[0045] The aerosol-generating system of the present invention comprises a tubular aerosol-generating article comprising a tubular aerosol-forming substrate. The tubular configuration of the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-forming substrate can facilitate improved conductive heat transfer from one or more electric heaters of the main unit to the aerosol-forming substrate. Compared to a conventional body or plug of an aerosol-forming substrate of equal size, the tubular aerosol-forming substrate can have a larger surface area to volume ratio without having internal passageways. The tubular shape of the aerosol-forming substrate can reduce the maximum thickness of the aerosol-forming substrate. This can facilitate the propagation of heat through the aerosol-forming substrate. This can facilitate aerosol generation.

[0046] The tubular aerosol-generating article may have any suitable shape and size. The tubular aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical. The tubular aerosol-generating article may be substantially elongated. The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise a cylindrical, open, hollow tube of an aerosol-forming substrate. The tubular aerosol-generating article may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the cross-section of the tubular aerosol-generating article may be substantially circular, cylindrical, square, or rectangular.

[0047] The tubular aerosol-generating article may have a width of between about 5 mm and about 20 mm, between about 5 mm and about 12 mm, or about 8 mm.

[0048] The tubular aerosol-generating article may have a length of between about 10 mm and about 100 mm, or between about 10 mm and about 50 mm, between about 30 mm and about 60 mm, or about 45 mm.

[0049] The length of the tubular aerosol-generating article may be substantially similar to the length of the heating portion of the main unit. The length of the tubular aerosol-generating article may be equal to or greater than the length of the heating portion of the main unit, such that when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit, the tubular aerosol-generating article covers the one or more electric heaters.

[0050] As used herein, the term "width" is used to describe the maximum dimension in the transverse direction of an aerosol-generating system, a tubular aerosol-generating article, and a main unit. When used herein, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum dimension in the longitudinal direction of an aerosol-generating system, a tubular aerosol-generating article, and a main unit.

[0051] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" is used to describe the direction between the proximal or mouth end and the distal end of an aerosol generating system, and the term "transverse" is used to describe the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0052] The tubular aerosol-generating article comprises an internal passageway. As used herein, the term "inner passageway" refers to a passageway that extends through at least a portion of the article. The internal passageway may be surrounded by an annular body and may extend substantially along the longitudinal axis of the article.

[0053] The internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article may have any suitable shape and may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the cross-section of the internal passageway may be substantially circular, cylindrical, square or rectangular.

[0054] The internal passageway may be substantially centrally arranged in the tubular aerosol-generating article. Thus, the thickness of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially uniform around the circumference of the tubular aerosol-generating article. This may enable uniform heating of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate around the circumference of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0055] The internal passageway may have a width of between about 2 mm and about 18 mm, between about 2 mm and about 10 mm, or about 4 mm.

[0056] The width of the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article may be substantially similar to the width of the heating portion of the main unit. Thus, when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion, the inner surface of the internal passageway may contact or abut the outer surface of the heating portion of the main unit. The width of the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article may be less than the width of the heating portion of the main unit, such that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion by a friction or interference fit.

[0057] The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate at room temperature. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the substrate when heated. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may include a non-tobacco material. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco-containing material and a non-tobacco material.

[0058] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may for example be one or more of: a powder, granules, pellets, shreds, tow, ribbon or sheet containing one or more of: herb leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco ribs, expanded tobacco and homogenised tobacco.

[0059] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating the solid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may also contain one or more capsules, for example containing additional tobacco volatile flavor compounds or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds, and such capsules may melt during heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0060] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of a powder, granules, pellets, chips, tow, strips, or sheets. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the surface of the carrier, for example, in the form of a sheet, foam, gel, or slurry. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited over the entire surface of the carrier. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited in a pattern to provide non-uniform fragrance delivery during use.

[0061] The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gathered, textured sheet of homogenised tobacco material. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gathered, textured sheet of homogenised tobacco material comprising one or more of a plurality of spaced-apart indentations, protrusions and perforations. The use of a textured sheet of homogenised tobacco material may facilitate the gathering of the sheet of homogenised tobacco material to form the tubular aerosol-forming substrate.

[0062] As used herein, the term "sheet" refers to a laminar element whose width and length are substantially greater than its thickness. As used herein, the term "aggregate" is used to describe a sheet that has been rolled, folded, or otherwise compressed or shrunk substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the tubular aerosol-generating article. As used herein, the term "textured sheet" refers to a sheet that has been curled, embossed, dented, perforated, or otherwise deformed. As used herein, the term "homogenized tobacco material" refers to a material formed from agglomerated granular tobacco.

[0063] The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gathered, curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "curled sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Preferably, the substantially parallel ridges or corrugations extend along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular aerosol-generating article. This may help the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material to gather to form the tubular aerosol-generating article. However, it will be appreciated that the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material for inclusion in the tubular aerosol-generating article may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations arranged at an acute angle or an obtuse angle to the longitudinal axis of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0064] The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more aerosol-forming agents. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a single aerosol-forming agent. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may comprise two or more aerosol-forming agents. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may have an aerosol-forming agent content of greater than about 5% by dry weight. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may have an aerosol-forming agent content of between about 5% and about 30% by dry weight. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate may have an aerosol-forming agent content of about 20% by dry weight.

[0065] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming agent" refers to any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, when used, facilitates the formation of an aerosol and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the tubular aerosol-generating article. Suitable aerosol-forming agents include, but are not limited to, polyols such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, and glycerol; esters of polyols such as mono-, di-, or triacetate of glycerol; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate.

[0066] The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more layers surrounding a tubular aerosol-forming substrate.For example, a tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more wrappers wrapped around the tubular aerosol-forming substrate.

[0067] One or more layers may comprise a thermally insulating material. Wrapping a layer of thermally insulating material around the tubular aerosol-forming substrate may help to retain heat from one or more electrically powered devices within the tubular aerosol-generating article. This may improve the conductive heat transfer efficiency of the aerosol-generating system. As used herein, the term "thermally insulating material" is used to describe a material having a bulk thermal conductivity of less than about 50 milliwatts per meter Kelvin (mW / (m·K)) at 23°C and having a relative humidity of 50% as measured using a modified transient planar heat source (MTPS) method. The thermally insulating material may also have a bulk thermal diffusivity of less than or equal to about 0.01 square centimeters per second (cm2 / s) as measured using a laser flash method.

[0068] One or more layers may comprise a material that is substantially impermeable to air, such as air. Surrounding the tubular aerosol-forming substrate with a layer of substantially impermeable material may help to retain vapour generated by the tubular aerosol-generating article within the aerosol-generating system and may help to direct the vapour towards a user.

[0069] One or more layers may comprise any suitable material. One or more layers may comprise a paper-like material. One or more layers may comprise cigarette paper. One or more layers may comprise tipping paper.

[0070] The interior passage of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate may be the interior passage of the tubular aerosol-generating article. Thus, when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit, the one or more electric heaters of the main unit may be adjacent to or in contact with the tubular aerosol-forming substrate. However, in some embodiments, the tubular aerosol-generating article may include one or more layers surrounding the inner surface of the interior passage of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate. The one or more inner layers may comprise substantially the same materials as described above with respect to the one or more outer layers.

[0071] At least one end of the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article may be open and configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit.The internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise two open ends configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit.

[0072] The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise additional components.

[0073] The tubular aerosol-generating article may include a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be disposed at a proximal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article. Where the tubular aerosol-generating article includes a mouthpiece, the tubular aerosol-generating article may include a proximal end including the mouthpiece, and a distal end including an open end of the internal passageway, the open end being configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit.

[0074] The mouthpiece may be a single-segment or single-component mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be a multi-segment or multi-component mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may comprise a material having low or very low filtration efficiency. The mouthpiece may comprise a filter comprising one or more segments comprising any suitable filter material. Suitable filter materials are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, cellulose acetate and paper. The mouthpiece may comprise one or more segments comprising absorbents, adsorbents, flavorants, and other aerosol modifiers and additives, or combinations thereof. The mouthpiece may have a width substantially equal to the width of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0075] Where the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises a mouthpiece, the tubular aerosol-generating article may be configured such that the main unit terminates within the interior of the tubular aerosol-generating article. When the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heated portion of the main unit, the proximal end of the main unit may abut or contact the mouthpiece. When the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heated portion of the main unit, the proximal end of the main unit may be spaced apart from the mouthpiece.

[0076] The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise additional components, including at least one of an aerosol-cooling element and a transfer element arranged between the tubular aerosol-forming substrate and the mouthpiece.

[0077] The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise a cooling element arranged between the tubular aerosol-forming substrate and the mouthpiece. The cooling element may comprise a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. The cooling element may comprise a sheet of aggregate material selected from the group consisting of: a metal foil, a polymeric material, and a substantially non-porous paper or cardboard.

[0078] The tubular aerosol-generating article may comprise a transfer element or a spacer element arranged between the tubular aerosol-forming substrate and the mouthpiece. The transfer element may help cool the aerosol generated by the heated tubular aerosol-forming substrate. The transfer element may also help adjust the length of the aerosol generating system to a desired value, for example, to a length similar to that of a conventional cigarette. The transfer element may comprise at least one open tubular hollow body formed from one or more suitable materials that are substantially thermally stable at the temperature of the aerosol generated by heat transfer from the combustible heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate. Suitable materials are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, paper, cardboard, plastics (such as cellulose acetate), ceramics, and combinations thereof.

[0079] Where the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises one or more layers or wrappers surrounding the tubular aerosol-forming substrate, the one or more layers or wrappers may also surround additional components, for example any of the mouthpiece, cooling element and transfer element.

[0080] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tubular aerosol-generating article for use in an electrically operated aerosol-generating system according to the first aspect of the present invention. The tubular aerosol-generating article comprises: a tubular aerosol-forming substrate; and an internal passage configured to receive a heating portion of a main unit of the electrically operated aerosol-generating system and an identifier.

[0081] The aerosol generating system of the present invention also includes a main unit. The main unit may include a housing. The housing may include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composite materials containing one or more of those materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for food or medical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. The material may be lightweight and not brittle. The main unit may include a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion and distal portion of the main unit may have different shapes and sizes.

[0082] The proximal portion of the main unit may include a heating portion. As used herein, the term "heating portion" is used to describe a portion of the main unit that includes one or more electric heaters. The extent of the heating portion is determined by the extent of the heater along the length of the main unit.

[0083] The heating portion may have any suitable shape and size. The shape and size of the heating portion may be substantially similar to the shape and size of the internal passage of the tubular aerosol-generating article. The shape and size of the heating portion may be complementary to the shape of the internal passage of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0084] The heating portion may be substantially cylindrical. The heating portion may be substantially elongated. The heating portion may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the cross-section of the heating portion may be substantially circular, oval, square, or rectangular. The shape of the heating portion may be substantially similar to the shape of the interior passage of the tubular aerosol-generating article. The shape of the heating portion may be complementary to the shape of the interior passage of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0085] Where the cross-sections of the heating portion and the tubular aerosol-generating article are not circularly symmetrical, the tubular aerosol-generating article may be received on the heating portion in a specific rotational orientation. Where the cross-sections of the heating portion and the tubular aerosol-generating article are circularly symmetrical, this may not require maintaining a specific rotational orientation of the tubular aerosol-generating article in order for the tubular aerosol-generating article to be received by the heating portion.

[0086] The heating portion may have a width between about 2 mm and about 18 mm, between about 2 mm and about 10 mm, or about 4 mm. The heating portion may have a length between about 10 mm and about 100 mm, between about 10 mm and about 50 mm, or about 45 mm.

[0087] The main unit may include any suitable number of electric heaters. The main unit may include one electric heater. The main unit may include two or more electric heaters. The main unit may include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine electric heaters. Where the main unit includes two or more electric heaters, the two or more electric heaters may be spaced apart around the circumference of the heating portion. The two or more electric heaters may be spaced apart along the length of the heating portion. Where the heating portion includes three or more electric heaters, the three or more electric heaters may be spaced evenly across the heating portion. The three or more electric heaters may be spaced unevenly across the heating portion.

[0088] The one or more electric heaters may be of any suitable shape. The one or more electric heaters may be elongated. The one or more electric heaters may extend substantially the length of the heating portion. The one or more electric heaters may be substantially annular. The one or more electric heaters may include one or more annular rings. The one or more rings may substantially surround a portion of the outer surface of the main unit. The one or more rings may substantially surround a portion of the proximal end of the heating portion. The one or more rings may substantially surround a portion of the distal end of the heating portion.

[0089] One or more electric heaters may comprise a resistive material. Suitable resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conductive" ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made from ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, alloys containing nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, and iron, and alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, and superalloys of iron-manganese-aluminum based alloys. In composite materials, the resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated by, or coated by an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the desired external physicochemical properties. Examples of suitable composite heater elements are disclosed in US-A-5 498 855, WO-A-03 / 095688, and US-A-5 514 630.

[0090] The distal portion of the main unit may have any suitable shape and size.

[0091] The distal portion may be substantially cylindrical. The distal portion may be substantially elongated. The distal portion may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the cross-section of the distal portion may be substantially circular, oval, square, or rectangular. The distal portion may be configured to be held by a user during use of the aerosol generating system.

[0092] The width of the distal portion of the main unit may be greater than the width of the proximal portion of the main unit. This may provide a larger space in the distal portion than in the proximal portion and may enable the distal portion to accommodate a power source and circuitry.

[0093] The width of the distal portion of the main unit may be similar to the width of the tubular aerosol-generating article. Thus, when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit, the aerosol-generating system may form a substantially cylindrical unit having a substantially uniform width along its length. This may enable the aerosol-generating system to resemble a conventional smoking article, such as a cigar or cigarette.

[0094] The distal portion may have a width between about 5 mm and about 20 mm, between about 5 mm and about 12 mm, or about 8 mm. The distal portion may have a length between about 10 mm and about 100 mm, or between about 10 mm and about 50 mm, or about 45 mm.

[0095] The main unit may include a shoulder between the heating portion and the distal portion of the main unit. The shoulder may connect the outer surface of the proximal portion of the main unit to the outer surface of the distal portion of the main unit. The shoulder may include an angled, inclined, or chamfered surface connecting the proximal portion of the main unit and the distal portion of the main unit. The shoulder may include a wall extending substantially radially outward from the outer surface of the proximal portion of the main unit to the outer surface of the distal portion of the main unit.

[0096] The proximal portion of the main unit may be configured such that when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion, the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article may abut or contact the shoulder. Thus, the shoulder may act as a stop to prevent the tubular aerosol-generating article from moving distally relative to the main unit beyond the heating portion. This may help position the tubular aerosol-generating article on the heating portion of the main unit in a desired position along the length of the main unit.

[0097] The main unit may further include a distal stop. The distal stop may be disposed distally of the heating portion of the main unit. When the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion, the distal stop may be configured to engage the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article. If the main unit includes a shoulder between the proximal portion and the distal portion, the distal stop may be disposed between the heating portion and the shoulder.

[0098] The main unit may include one or more power sources. The one or more power sources may be arranged in a distal portion of the main unit. The one or more power sources may include a battery. The battery may be a lithium-based battery, for example, a lithium cobalt, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or a lithium polymer battery. The battery may be a nickel metal hydride battery or a nickel cadmium battery. The one or more power sources may include other forms of charge storage devices, for example, capacitors. The one or more power sources may need to be recharged and may be configured for multiple charge and discharge cycles. The one or more power sources may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more user experiences; for example, the one or more power sources may have sufficient capacity to allow continuous aerosol generation over a period of approximately six minutes (corresponding to the typical time spent smoking a conventional cigarette) or over a period of multiples of six minutes. In another example, the one or more power sources may have sufficient capacity to allow a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activations of the heating device and actuator.

[0099] The main unit may include circuitry configured to control the supply of power from one or more power sources to one or more electric heaters. If the main unit includes two or more electric heaters, the circuitry may be configured to supply power to all of the electric heaters simultaneously. If the main unit includes two or more electric heaters, the circuitry may be configured to supply power to each electric heater individually. The circuitry may be configured to selectively supply power to each electric heater. The circuitry may be configured to supply power to the electric heaters sequentially. The circuitry may be configured to supply power to selected ones of the electric heaters in a predetermined order. For example, the circuitry may be configured to supply power to one heater per puff. In another example, the circuitry may be configured to supply power to a first heater for a predetermined period of time, and then to a second heater for a predetermined period of time. This may enable selective heating of portions of the aerosol-forming substrate. This may enable variation in the aerosol supplied to the user during a puff. This may allow portions of the aerosol-forming substrate to be heated to different temperatures. This may enable the aerosol generating system to retain unheated portions of the aerosol-forming substrate for each puff experienced by the user.

[0100] The main unit may include a user input, such as a switch or button. This may enable the user to turn the main unit on and off. The switch or button may activate the aerosol generating device. The switch or button may initiate aerosol generation. The switch or button may arm the circuitry to await input from a puff detector.

[0101] The circuitry may comprise a sensor or puff detector to detect airflow through the aerosol generating system indicative of a user taking a puff.The circuitry may be configured to provide supply power to the one or more electric heaters when the sensor senses the user taking a puff.

[0102] The main unit may include a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be arranged at a proximal end of the main unit. The mouthpiece may be configured to allow a user to suck, draw or inhale on the mouthpiece to draw air and vapour through one or more airflow paths of the aerosol generating system.

[0103] The mouthpiece may comprise a retaining device according to the present invention. For example, the mouthpiece may comprise one or more of the one or more protrusions. In another example, the mouthpiece may comprise a second magnetic material.

[0104] The mouthpiece may be removably received on the main unit. Where the mouthpiece is removable from the main unit, the mouthpiece may include a cover arranged to overlap the tubular aerosol-generating article when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit. The cover may further help retain heat around the tubular aerosol-generating article and may prevent vapor from being discharged from the tubular aerosol-generating article through the outer surface of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0105] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a main unit for an electrically operated aerosol-generating system according to the first aspect of the present invention. The main unit comprises a heating portion arranged at an outer surface of the main unit. The heating portion comprises one or more electric heaters and means for determining that a tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

[0106] The main unit may have a proximal portion and a distal portion, the heating portion of the main unit being arranged at the proximal portion of the main unit. The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit may be arranged between the heating portion and the distal portion of the main unit.

[0107] The primary unit may further comprise means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the primary unit.

[0108] When the electrically operated aerosol generating system is assembled for use and the tubular aerosol generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit, the aerosol generating system may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The aerosol generating system may have an overall length of between about 70 mm and about 200 mm, or between about 70 mm and about 150 mm, or about 120 mm. The aerosol generating system may have a width of between about 5 mm and about 20 mm, between about 5 mm and about 10 mm, or about 8 mm.

[0109] The main unit may be configured to be durable. The main unit may be configured to be reusable.

[0110] The tubular aerosol-generating article may be configured as a disposable component. The tubular aerosol-generating article may be configured to be discarded after a single user experience. In contrast, the main unit may be configured to be durable and reusable. The main unit may include relatively expensive and durable components of the aerosol-generating system, such as a power supply, a heater, and circuitry.

[0111] The tubular aerosol-generating article can be manufactured, stored, and sold separately from the main unit. Each tubular aerosol-generating article can be packaged individually. Similar to conventional smoking articles such as cigarettes, multiple tubular aerosol-generating articles can be packaged and sold together.

[0112] The aerosol generating system may be an electrically operated smoking system.The overall dimensions of the aerosol generating system may be similar to a conventional smoking article, such as a cigarette, cigar, cigarillo or any other such smoking article. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0113] Embodiments according to the present invention will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0114] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an electrically operated aerosol generating system comprising a main unit and a tubular aerosol generating article;

[0115] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a schematic illustration of an electrically operated aerosol generating system showing a tubular aerosol generating article fully received on the main unit;

[0116] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a schematic illustration of an electrically operated aerosol generating system of FIG. 1 , showing airflow through the aerosol generating system when the aerosol-generating article is fully received on the main unit and a user draws on the mouthpiece;

[0117] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of another example of a tubular aerosol-generating article;

[0118] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 a schematic illustration of a tubular aerosol-generating article of , showing airflow through the tubular aerosol-generating article when the tubular aerosol-generating article is fully received on the main unit and a user draws on the mouthpiece;

[0119] Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of the main units of an electrically operated aerosol generating system according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0120] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of an electrically operated aerosol generating system according to a second embodiment of the present invention; and

[0121] Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of an electrically operated aerosol generating system according to a third embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0122] Figures 1 to 3 An exemplary electrically operated aerosol generating system with a tubular aerosol-generating article is shown in The electrically operated aerosol generating system 1 comprises a tubular aerosol-generating article 2 and a main unit 3 .

[0123] The tubular aerosol-generating article 2 comprises a cylindrical, open, hollow tube of an aerosol-forming substrate 4. An internal passageway 5 extends centrally through the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4 and extends the length of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4, such that both ends of the internal passageway 5 are open. The two open ends of the internal passageway 5 are configured to receive the proximal portion 7 of the main unit 3.

[0124] The tubular body of the aerosol-forming substrate 4 comprises one or more gathered tobacco sheets surrounded by an outer wrapper (not shown), which covers the cylindrical outer surface of the tubular body of the aerosol-forming substrate 4. The outer wrapper is formed of a substantially air-impermeable material such that the outer wrapper substantially prevents ambient air from being drawn through the cylindrical outer surface into the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. The outer wrapper also substantially prevents vapour from the heated aerosol-forming substrate 4 from exiting the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 through the cylindrical outer surface.

[0125] The outer wrapper does not extend over the annular end face 6 of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4, such that the annular end face 6 of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4 is exposed to ambient air. Ambient air can be drawn into the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 through either annular end face 6. Similarly, the open end of the internal passageway 5 is not covered by the outer wrapper, such that the proximal portion 7 of the main unit 3 can be inserted into either end of the internal passageway 5.

[0126] The main unit 3 comprises a substantially circular cylindrical hollow housing formed of a rigid thermally insulating material, such as PEEK. The main unit 3 comprises a proximal portion 7 and a distal portion 8 separated by a shoulder 9.

[0127] The proximal portion 7 comprises a heating portion 10 having seven identical electric heaters 11. The seven electric heaters 11 are evenly spaced around the circumference of the heating portion 10. Each of the electric heaters 11 is elongated and arranged such that its length extends in a direction along the longitudinal axis A of the main unit 3. The length of each electric heater 11 is substantially similar to the length of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. Thus, when the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 is received on the heating portion 10 of the main unit 3, the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 overlaps and covers the electric heaters 11 along its entire length. This enables a substantial portion of the heat generated by the heaters 11 to be transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate 4, rather than to the ambient air, during use of the aerosol-generating system.

[0128] The heating portion 10 of the main unit 3 has a circular cylindrical cross-section that is substantially similar to the cross-section of the internal passage 5 of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. The width of the heating portion 10 is slightly greater than the width of the internal passage 5. Therefore, the heating portion 10 of the main unit 3 can be inserted into the internal passage 5 of the tubular aerosol-generating article with an interference or friction fit. When the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 is received on the heating portion 10, the interference or friction fit ensures contact between the electric heater 11 at the outer surface of the heating portion 10 of the main unit 3 and the inner surface of the internal passage 5 of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. This contact facilitates heat transfer between the heater 11 and the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4. The interference or friction fit also provides some resistance to movement of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 along the longitudinal axis A of the main unit 3. Thus, the interference or friction fit helps to retain the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 on the heating portion 10 of the main unit 3.

[0129] The proximal portion 7 of the main unit 3 further comprises a tapered mouthpiece 12 at the proximal end of the main unit 3 for a user to draw on to receive the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system.

[0130] The distal portion 8 of the main unit 3 has a cylindrical cross-section that is substantially similar to the cylindrical cross-section of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. The width of the distal portion 8 is substantially similar to the width of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. Thus, when the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 is received on the heating portion 10 of the main unit 3, the electrically-operated aerosol-generating system 1 forms a substantially circular cylindrical unit of uniform width or diameter, which may be similar to a conventional cigarette or cigar, such as Figure 2 As shown in .

[0131] The distal portion 8 of the main unit 2 houses a battery (not shown) and circuitry (not shown) within a hollow housing. The battery is arranged and configured to supply power to the electric heater 11 of the heating portion 10. The circuitry is configured to control the supply of power from the battery to the electric heater 11. The circuitry includes a sensor for detecting a user's puff on the mouthpiece 12.

[0132] The circuit is configured to supply power to the electric heaters 11 simultaneously or individually in a predetermined sequence. In other words, the circuit is configured to supply power to the electric heaters 11 in different heating modes, such as a simultaneous heating mode and a sequential heating mode. For example, in the simultaneous heating mode, the circuit is configured to supply power to all heaters 11 when a puff is detected. In another example, in the sequential mode, the circuit is configured to supply power to a first heater in the heaters 11 when a first puff is detected, to supply power to a second heater in the heaters 11 when a second puff is detected, and then to sequentially supply power to individual heaters in the remaining heaters 11 for each detected puff until all heaters are activated.

[0133] A button 13 is also provided on the distal portion 8 of the main unit 3. The circuit is configured to switch between heating modes when the button 13 is pressed. Successive presses of the button 13 switch the heating mode of the circuit between a sequential heating mode, a simultaneous heating mode, and a no power mode (off).

[0134] The width of the distal portion 8 of the main unit 3 is greater than the width of the proximal portion 7. Therefore, the main unit 3 includes a shoulder 9 separating the proximal portion 7 from the distal portion 8. The shoulder 9 includes a wall extending substantially radially outward from the distal end of the proximal portion 7 to the proximal end of the distal portion 8.

[0135] A distal stop (not shown) is arranged on the proximal portion 7 of the main unit 3, between the heating portion 10 and the shoulder 9. The distal stop is configured to engage the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 when the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 is fully received on the heating portion 10. The distal stop substantially prevents the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 from moving beyond the heating portion 10 in a distal direction towards the distal portion 8.

[0136] It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the shoulder 9 may function as a distal stop for the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. In these embodiments, the shoulder 9 may abut or contact the distal end of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 when the tubular aerosol-generating article 2 is fully received on the heating portion 10.

[0137] like Figure 3 , an air passage 14 extends through the proximal portion 7 of the main unit 3. A plurality of air inlets 16 are arranged in the outer surface of the heating portion 10, between the electric heaters 11, and an air outlet 17 is provided in the mouthpiece 12. The plurality of air inlets 16 and the air outlet 17 are fluidly connected to the air passage 14 to enable air to be drawn through the air passage 14 when a user draws on the mouthpiece 12.

[0138] To assemble the electrically operated aerosol generating system 1 for use, a user aligns the main unit 3 and the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol generating article 2 along a common longitudinal axis A with either end of the tubular aerosol generating article 2 facing the proximal end of the main unit 3. The user moves the tubular aerosol generating article 2 along the common axis A toward the main unit 3 so that the proximal end of the main unit 3 is inserted into the distal open end of the internal passageway 5. Before the distal end of the tubular aerosol generating article 2 abuts a distal stop (not shown), the user slides the tubular aerosol generating article 2 over the proximal portion 7 of the main unit 3 toward the distal portion 8. In this position, the tubular aerosol generating article 2 is fully received on the heating portion 10 of the main unit 3, and the tubular aerosol generating article 2 covers the electric heater 11 and the air inlet 16, as shown Figure 2 and 3 As shown in .

[0139] In use, the user presses the button 13 to switch the main unit 3 from the off mode to the sequential heating mode. The user takes a puff on the mouthpiece 12 of the main unit 3, and the circuit (not shown) detects the user's puff on the mouthpiece 12. Upon detecting the user's puff, the circuit supplies power from a power source (not shown) to one of the electric heaters 11. The powered electric heater 11 heats a portion of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4 of the tubular aerosol-generating article 2. When the portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 4 is heated, the volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate vaporize and generate vapor.

[0140] When the user draws on the mouthpiece 12 of the main unit 3, ambient air is drawn into the tubular aerosol generating article 2 through the annular end face 6 of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4. The air drawn into the tubular aerosol generating article 2 is drawn through the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 4 toward the air inlet 16 of the main unit 3. Vapor generated by the heated aerosol-forming substrate is entrained in the air, which is drawn through the aerosol-forming substrate 4. The entrained vapor is drawn out of the aerosol-forming substrate 4 at the inner surface of the internal passage 5 and enters the air passage 14 of the main unit 3 through the air inlet 16. The entrained vapor is drawn through the air passage 14 in a proximal direction toward the mouthpiece 12. As the vapor is drawn through the air passage 14, the vapor cools and forms an aerosol. The aerosol is drawn out of the air passage 14 through the air outlet 17 in the mouthpiece 12 and is passed to the user for inhalation. The direction of airflow through the system 1 is through Figure 3 Indicated by the arrow shown in .

[0141] It will be appreciated that in some examples, the tubular aerosol-generating article may include one or more air inlets at the cylindrical outer surface, in the form of one or more perforations in the outer layer or wrapper surrounding the tubular aerosol-forming substrate. In these embodiments, air may be drawn into the tubular aerosol-generating article through the perforations in the cylindrical outer surface. The main unit may also include additional air inlets arranged distally or proximally to the heating portion. These additional air inlets may not be covered by the tubular aerosol-generating article when the tubular aerosol-generating article is fully received on the heating portion of the main unit. Thus, these additional air inlets may enable ambient air to be drawn directly into the air passage of the main unit and may help cool the vapor and aerosol before being inhaled by the user. This may improve the user experience.

[0142] Figure 4 and 5 Another example of an electrically operated aerosol-generating system having a tubular aerosol-generating article is shown in . Figure 4 and 5 The electrically operated aerosol generating system 101 shown in FIG. 1 comprises a tubular aerosol generating article 102 and a main unit 103 .

[0143] The tubular aerosol-generating article 102 comprises a cylindrical open hollow tube of an aerosol-forming substrate 104. An internal passageway 105 extends centrally through the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 and extends the length of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104, leaving both ends of the internal passageway 105 open.

[0144] The tubular aerosol-generating article 102 further comprises a mouthpiece 106. The mouthpiece 106 comprises a circular cylindrical body of cellulose acetate having a substantially similar annular cross-section and width to the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104. The tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 and the mouthpiece 106 are arranged in abutting coaxial alignment such that the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 and the mouthpiece 106 are configured to form a rod. The proximal end of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 abuts the distal end of the mouthpiece 106.

[0145] The tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 and the mouthpiece 106 are surrounded by an outer wrapper 107. The outer wrapper 107 secures the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 to the mouthpiece 106. The outer wrapper 107 is formed of a substantially air-impermeable material such that the outer wrapper 107 substantially prevents ambient air from being drawn through the cylindrical outer surface into the tubular aerosol-generating article 102. The outer wrapper 107 covers the cylindrical outer surface of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 and the mouthpiece 106 but does not extend over the end faces so that air can be drawn through the tubular aerosol-generating article 102 from the distal end face 108 to the proximal end face 109.

[0146] The distal end of the internal passageway 105 is open and is configured to receive a proximal portion of the main unit 103. The proximal end of the internal passageway 105 is arranged at the distal end of the mouthpiece 106.

[0147] It will be appreciated that the tubular aerosol-generating article 102 may further comprise additional components between the tubular aerosol-forming substrate and the mouthpiece 106 .

[0148] The main unit 103 is substantially similar to the one described above with respect to Figures 1 to 3 . However, the main unit 103 does not include an air passage through the proximal portion. Thus, the main unit 103 does not form part of the airflow path through the aerosol generating system 101. In other words, the main unit 103 is substantially isolated from air drawn through the aerosol generating system 101.

[0149] In addition, the main unit 103 does not include a mouthpiece. A heater (not shown) of the main unit 103 extends to the proximal end of the main unit 103, so that the proximal end of the main unit is the proximal end of the heating portion.

[0150] The circuit does not include a sensor for detecting a user's puffs, as the main unit is substantially isolated from air drawn through the aerosol generating system 101. In this example, the circuit determines when power is supplied to the electric heater by user activation of a button.

[0151] The main unit 103 includes a distal stop (not shown) disposed between the distal end of the heating portion and a shoulder of the main unit 103. However, it will be appreciated that a distal stop may not be required, as the proximal end of the main unit may abut the distal end of the mouthpiece 106 when the tubular aerosol-generating article 102 is fully received on the heating portion.

[0152] To assemble the electrically operated aerosol generating system 101 for use, a user aligns the main unit 103 and the internal passageway 105 of the tubular aerosol generating article 102 along a common longitudinal axis with the distal end 108 of the tubular aerosol generating article 102 facing the proximal end of the main unit 103. The user moves the tubular aerosol generating article 102 along the common axis toward the main unit 103 so that the proximal end of the main unit 103 is inserted into the open distal end of the internal passageway 105. The user slides the tubular aerosol generating article 102 over the proximal portion of the main unit 103 in a distal direction toward the distal portion before the distal end 108 of the tubular aerosol generating article 102 abuts the distal stop and the proximal end of the main unit 103 abuts the distal end of the mouthpiece 106. In this position, the tubular aerosol generating article 102 is fully received on the heating portion of the main unit 103 and the tubular aerosol generating article 102 covers the electric heater, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown in .

[0153] In use, a user presses a button to switch the main unit 103 from an off mode to a sequential heating mode, and a circuit supplies power from a power source (not shown) to one of the electric heaters. The powered electric heater heats a portion of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 of the tubular aerosol-generating article 102. When the portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 104 is heated, the volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate vaporize and generate vapor.

[0154] When a user draws on the mouthpiece 106 of the tubular aerosol-generating article 102, ambient air is drawn into the tubular aerosol-generating article 102 through the distal face 108 of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104. The air drawn into the tubular aerosol-generating article 102 is drawn through the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 in a proximal direction toward the mouthpiece 106. Vapor generated by the heated aerosol-forming substrate 104 is entrained in the air that is drawn through the aerosol-forming substrate 104. The entrained vapor is drawn out of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate 104 at the proximal end and into the mouthpiece 106. The entrained vapor is drawn through the mouthpiece 106 toward the proximal end 109. As the vapor is drawn through the mouthpiece 106, the vapor cools and forms an aerosol. The aerosol is drawn out of the mouthpiece 106 at the proximal end 109 and is passed to the user for inhalation. The direction of airflow through the system 101 is through Figure 5 Indicated by the arrow shown in .

[0155] It will be appreciated that a tubular aerosol-generating article comprising a mouthpiece, for example the tubular aerosol-generating article 102, may also be combined with a main unit comprising an air passage, for example the one described above with respect to Figures 1 to 3 In such a system, the main unit may not include a mouthpiece, but may instead include an air outlet that is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece of the tubular aerosol-generating article when the tubular aerosol-generating article is fully received on the heating portion of the main unit.

[0156] Figures 6 to 8 An electrically operated aerosol generating system according to several embodiments of the invention is shown in FIG.

[0157] Figure 6 1 shows a main unit 203 for an electrically operated aerosol generating system according to a first embodiment of the invention. The main unit 203 is substantially similar to the one described above with respect to Figures 1 to 3 The main unit 3 is described and where identical features exist, like reference numerals have been used to refer to these features.

[0158] The main unit 203 comprises means for determining that a tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit including a light sensor 220. The light sensor 220 is arranged on the outer surface of the proximal portion 207, between the heating portion 210 and the mouthpiece 212. In this position, when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion 210 of the main unit 203, the light sensor is covered by the inner surface of the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0159] The apparatus for determining that a tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit 203 further comprises circuitry (not shown) in the main unit 203, the circuitry being configured to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion 210 based on a signal received from the light sensor 220. When the intensity of light sensed by the light sensor 220 is below a threshold intensity, the circuitry is configured to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion 210 of the main unit 203. The predetermined threshold intensity value is stored in a memory (not shown) of the circuitry and is compared to the intensity measurement received from the light sensor 220. When the light sensor 220 senses a low light intensity, this indicates that the light sensor 220 is covered by the tubular aerosol-generating article. When the circuitry determines that the sensed light intensity is below the threshold intensity value, the circuitry determines that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion 210 of the main unit 203.

[0160] It will be appreciated that the light sensor may be arranged at any suitable location on the main unit. For example, the light sensor may be arranged in the heating portion of the main unit, or between the heating portion and the distal portion of the main unit. It may be advantageous to arrange the light sensor distal to the heating portion or on a shoulder of the main unit because, in this arrangement, the light sensor will only sense a decrease in light intensity when the distal end of the aerosol-generating article is at the distal end of the heating portion, which is the position at which the tubular aerosol-generating article is fully received on the heating portion.

[0161] It will also be appreciated that the light sensor may be any other suitable type of sensor, such as a pressure sensor or a proximity sensor.

[0162] Figure 7 An electrically operated aerosol generating system 301 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. The electrically operated aerosol generating system 301 comprises a tubular aerosol generating article 302 and a main unit 303. The tubular aerosol generating article 302 and the main unit 303 are substantially similar to those described above with respect to the Figures 1 to 3 The tubular aerosol-generating article 2 and main unit 3 are described herein and, where identical features exist, like reference numerals have been used to refer to these features.

[0163] The tubular aerosol-generating article 302 comprises two rings 321, 322 made of a conductive material, such as aluminum foil. The two rings 321, 322 surround a portion of the inner surface of the inner passage 305. The first ring 321 is arranged at one end of the inner passage 305, and the second ring 322 is arranged at the opposite end of the inner passage 305.

[0164] The main unit 303 includes two electrical contacts 322 arranged on an outer surface of the proximal portion 207, between the heating portion 310 and the mouthpiece 312. A first of the electrical contacts 322 is spaced apart from a second of the electrical contacts 322 around the circumference of the main unit 303. The electrical contacts 322 are arranged such that when the tubular aerosol-generating article 302 is fully received on the heating portion 310 of the main unit, the first ring 321 abuts or contacts both the first and second electrical contacts 322, or the second ring 322 abuts or contacts both the first and second electrical contacts 322. Thus, when the tubular aerosol-generating article 302 is received on the heating portion 310, the first and second electrical contacts 322 are electrically connected via the first ring 321 or the second ring 322.

[0165] The main unit 303 includes circuitry (not shown) configured to monitor the electrical connection between the first and second electrical contacts 322. The circuitry is configured to determine whether the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion 310 based on the electrical connection between the first and second electrical contacts 322. If the circuitry detects the electrical connection between the first and second electrical contacts 322, the circuitry determines that the tubular aerosol-generating article 302 is fully received on the heating portion 310.

[0166] The circuitry is further configured to prevent power from being supplied from a power supply (not shown) in the main unit 303 to the one or more electric heaters of the main unit 303 unless an electrical connection is detected between the first and second contacts 322. This means that the electrically operated aerosol generating system 301 is configured to operate only when the circuitry detects that the tubular aerosol-generating article 303 is fully received on the heating portion of the main unit 303.

[0167] Figure 8 An electrically operated aerosol generating system 401 according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown. The electrically operated aerosol generating system 401 comprises a tubular aerosol generating article 402 and a main unit 403. The tubular aerosol generating article 402 and the main unit 403 are substantially similar to those described above with respect to the Figure 4 and 5 The tubular aerosol-generating article 102 and main unit 103 are described, and where identical features exist, like reference numerals have been used to refer to these features.

[0168] The tubular aerosol-generating article 402 comprises a ring 421 of electrically conductive material (eg, aluminum) arranged on a distal annular face.

[0169] The main unit 403 includes two electrical contacts 422 disposed on a shoulder 409 between the proximal portion 407 and the distal portion 408. A first of the electrical contacts 422 is spaced apart from a second of the electrical contacts 422 around the circumference of the main unit 403. The first and second electrical contacts 422 are arranged such that when the tubular aerosol-generating article 402 is fully received on the heating portion 410 of the main unit 403, a ring 421 of electrically conductive material abuts or contacts both the first and second electrical contacts 422. Thus, when the tubular aerosol-generating article 402 is fully received on the heating portion 410, the first and second electrical contacts 422 are electrically connected via the ring 421.

[0170] The circuitry of the main unit 403 is configured to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article 402 is received substantially as described above with respect to Figure 7 The heating portion 410 of the main unit 403 is depicted.

[0171] The circuitry of the main unit 403 is further configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-forming article 402. The circuitry is configured to sense the resistance between the first and second electrical contacts 422. The circuitry is configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article 402 based on the sensed resistance between the first and second electrical contacts 422.

[0172] The circuit includes a memory (not shown) that stores a lookup table. The lookup table includes reference resistance information and stored identification information. The stored identification information is associated with the reference resistance information. The circuit is configured to compare the sensed resistance information from the first and second electrical contacts 422 with the stored reference information in the lookup table. If the circuit determines a match between the measured resistance and the stored resistance information, the circuit determines the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article by determining the stored identification information associated with the matching reference information.

[0173] The circuitry is further configured to determine an operating mode of the electric heater based on the determined identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article.In other words, the circuitry is configured to control power supplied to the one or more electric heaters based on the determined identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

[0174] Depending on the composition of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate, the tubular aerosol-generating article may be provided with different conductive materials having different electrical resistances. This enables the main unit to identify each tubular aerosol-generating article and its associated aerosol-forming substrate composition based on the electrical resistance of the conductive material. This enables the main unit to heat the tubular aerosol-generating article to different temperatures depending on the composition of the aerosol-forming substrate. This enables the main unit to be used with different types of tubular aerosol-generating articles having different compositions of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0175] The main unit further comprises a display (not shown).The circuit is configured to send the stored identification information associated with the matched reference resistance information to the display to inform the user of the identification of the tubular aerosol-forming substrate received on the heating portion.

[0176] It will be appreciated that the conductive material and electrical contacts may be arranged in any suitable complementary arrangement.

[0177] It will be appreciated that the examples described herein are simple examples and that the illustrated circuits may be modified to provide different or more complex functionality. It will be appreciated that features described herein with reference to one embodiment may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An electrically operated aerosol generating system comprising: a main unit comprising a heating portion arranged at an outer surface of the main unit, the heating portion comprising one or more electric heaters; as well as A tubular aerosol-generating article comprising: a tubular aerosol-forming substrate; and Internal passage, in: the internal passageway of the tubular aerosol-generating article being configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit; the one or more electric heaters being arranged to heat the tubular aerosol-forming substrate when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit; the main unit comprising means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit; and the main unit comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion, the proximal portion comprising the heating portion, and the means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit is arranged distal to the heating portion; in: The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit comprises: a first electrical contact disposed on the main unit; and a second electrical contact disposed on the main unit and spaced apart from the first electrical contact; and circuitry configured to sense an electrical connection between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact and to determine that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit based on the sensed electrical connection; and The tubular aerosol-generating article comprises an electrically conductive material arranged to electrically connect the first and second electrical contacts of the main unit when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

2. An electrically operated aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the main unit includes a circuit configured to prevent power from being supplied to the one or more electric heaters when the device for determining that the tubular aerosol generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit determines that the tubular aerosol generating article is not received on the heating portion of the main unit.

3. An electrically operated aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the main unit comprises means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

4. An electrically operated aerosol-generating system according to claim 3, wherein the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises an identifier, and the means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article is configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on the identifier.

5. An electrically operated aerosol generating system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: the means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises an optical sensor and circuitry configured to determine the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on a signal received from the optical sensor; and The tubular aerosol-generating article comprises a visual indicator, a barcode arranged to be sensed by the optical sensor when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received by the heating portion of the main unit.

6. An electrically operated aerosol generating system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The means for determining the identity of the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises: a first electrical contact disposed on the main unit; a second electrical contact disposed on the main unit and spaced apart from the first electrical contact; circuitry configured to sense an electrical charge between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, and determine the identification of the tubular aerosol-generating article based on the sensed electrical charge; and The tubular aerosol-generating article comprises an electrical identifier arranged to electrically connect the first and second electrical contacts of the main unit when the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

7. An electrically operated aerosol generating system according to claim 6, wherein the electrical quantity is the resistance between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact.

8. An electrically operated aerosol-generating system according to claim 3, wherein the means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit comprises the means for determining an identification of the tubular aerosol-generating article.

9. A tubular aerosol-generating article for use in an electrically operated aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the tubular aerosol-generating article comprises: Tubular aerosol-forming matrix; an internal passage configured to receive a heating portion of the main unit; a distal end comprising an open end of the internal passageway, the open end being configured to receive the heating portion of the main unit; and An identifier is arranged on the distal face.

10. A main unit for an aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the main unit comprises: a heating portion disposed at an outer surface of the main unit, the heating portion comprising one or more electric heaters; means for determining that a tubular aerosol-generating article is received on said heating portion of said main unit; as well as a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion, in: said proximal portion including said heating portion; and The means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion is arranged distally of the heating portion.

11. A main unit according to claim 10, wherein the means for determining that the tubular aerosol-generating article is received on the heating portion of the main unit is arranged between the heating portion and the distal portion of the main unit.

12. A main unit according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the main unit comprises means for determining the identity of a tubular aerosol-generating article when the article is received on the heating portion of the main unit.

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