Aerosol supply device

Abstract

An aerosol supply device is provided that includes a receiver defining a heating chamber for receiving at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol-generating material. The receiver includes a substrate. The aperture is disposed in the substrate, and the ridge upstands from the substrate and surrounds the aperture. The ridge is configured to contact the article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and an aerosol supply system. Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars, etc. burn tobacco during use to generate tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by producing products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are so-called "heat-not-burn" products or tobacco heating devices or products that release compounds by heating but not burning a material. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol supply device including a receiver that defines a heating chamber for receiving at least a portion of an article containing aerosol-generating material. The receiver includes a base; a hole in the base; and a ridge that stands upright from the base and surrounds the hole, wherein the ridge is configured to contact the article.

[0004] In an embodiment of any of the above, the ridge may be configured to form an air flow barrier when contacting the article to prevent air flow from leaving the area including the hole.

[0005] In an embodiment of any of the above, the ridge may be configured to cooperate with the article to surround the hole.

[0006] In an embodiment of any of the above, the ridge may be arranged to divide an end portion of the article into an inner region and a peripheral region.

[0007] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol supply device may include an air path that is arranged to direct air from the outside of the aerosol supply device to an end of the article, and the air path passes through the hole of the receiver. In an embodiment of any of the above, the air path is an internal air path.

[0008] In an embodiment of any of the above, the air path may be a first air path, and the aerosol supply device may include a second air path. In an embodiment of any of the above, the second air path may be an external air path. In an embodiment of any of the above, the second air path may be arranged to direct air from the outside of the aerosol supply device to an end of the article. In an embodiment of any of the above, the second air path may be at least partially defined between the receiver and the article in use.

[0009] In an embodiment of any of the above, the ridge may be configured to fluidly separate the first air path from the second air path.

[0010] In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may be configured such that when the article is received in the heating chamber, there is a gap between the receiver and the article.

[0011] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may be configured to contact the distal end of the article

[0012] In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may include a peripheral wall.

[0013] In any of the above embodiments, the base surface may be defined between the ridge and the peripheral wall.

[0014] In any of the above embodiments, the peripheral wall may be a tubular wall.

[0015] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may be configured to space the end of the article from the base surface.

[0016] In any of the above embodiments, the base surface may be annular.

[0017] In any of the above embodiments, the base surface may be planar.

[0018] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may include a heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the heating element is a resistive heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the heating element may be heated by utilizing the penetration of a varying magnetic field. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device includes a magnetic field generator for generating a varying magnetic field to heat the heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device includes an induction heating assembly.

[0019] In any of the above embodiments, the heating element may extend through the hole into the heating chamber.

[0020] In any of the above embodiments, the heating element may be upright in the heating chamber.

[0021] In any of the above embodiments, the heating element may be spaced from the edge of the hole.

[0022] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may extend circumferentially around the hole.

[0023] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may be the lip of the hole.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may define the hole.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, the hole may be configured to form at least a part of an air path into the heating chamber

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, a second air path may be at least partially defined within the heating chamber.

[0027] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may be arranged to define a barrier between a first air path and a second air path at the base.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, the second air path may be at least partially defined between the article and the receiver.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may be a barrier member.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the ridge may be unbroken.

[0031] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may include a main housing. In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may be received in the main housing.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may include a removal mechanism.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the removal mechanism may include the receiver.

[0034] In any of the above embodiments, the main housing may include a peripheral wall, and the receiver may be received in the peripheral wall.

[0035] In any of the above embodiments, the peripheral wall of the main housing may be a tubular wall.

[0036] In any of the above embodiments, the removal mechanism may be releasably held to the main housing in use

[0037] According to the embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol supply system including an aerosol supply device of the foregoing aspects and including an article containing an aerosol-forming material.

[0038] According to the embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol supply device including a receiver that defines a heating chamber for receiving at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-forming material; the receiver includes a base. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 A perspective view of an aerosol supply device located within a charging unit is shown;

[0041] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 A perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device of

[0042] Figure 3 ShownFigure 1 Cross-sectional view of a part of an aerosol supply device;

[0043] Figure 4 Showing the removal mechanism removed Figure 1 Perspective view of a part of an aerosol supply device;

[0044] Figure 5 Showing Figure 1 Perspective view of a part of the removal mechanism of an aerosol supply device;

[0045] Figure 6 Showing Figure 1 Stereo cross-sectional view of a part of the removal mechanism of an aerosol supply device; and

[0046] Figure 7 Showing Figure 1 Stereo cross-sectional view of a part of the removal mechanism of an aerosol supply device. Detailed Description

[0047] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the constituent aerosol-forming material of the aerosol supply system (or its components) does not burn or is non-combustible and can deliver at least one substance to a user.

[0048] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0049] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-forming material is not required.

[0050] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-forming material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0051] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that uses a combination of aerosol-forming materials to generate an aerosol, and one or more of these aerosol-forming materials can be heated. Each of these aerosol-forming materials can be in the form of, for example, a solid, a liquid, or a gel and can include or can not include nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-forming material and a solid aerosol-forming material. The solid aerosol-forming material can include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0052] Generally, a non-combustible aerosol supply system can include a non-combustible aerosol supply device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0053] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include an aerosol - forming material and are configured to be used with a non - combustible aerosol supply device. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles in the present disclosure.

[0054] In some embodiments, a non - combustible aerosol supply system (such as its non - combustible aerosol supply device) may include a power source and a controller. For example, the power source may be an electrical power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source includes a carbon matrix, which can be energized to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol - forming material or a heat - transfer material adjacent to the exothermic power source.

[0055] In some embodiments, a non - combustible aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol - forming area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0056] In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non - combustible aerosol supply device may include an aerosol - forming material, an aerosol - forming material storage area, an aerosol - forming material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol - forming area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0057] An aerosol - forming material is a material capable of generating an aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated, or energized in any other way. The aerosol - forming material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or semi - solid (such as a gel), which may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavorant.

[0058] The aerosol - forming material may include a binder and an aerosol - forming agent. Optionally, an active substance and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent (such as water) is also present and one or more other components of the aerosol - forming material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol - forming material is substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol - forming material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0059] The aerosol - forming material may include or be an aerosol - forming film. The aerosol - forming film can be formed by combining a binder (such as a gelling agent) with a solvent (such as water), an aerosol - forming agent, and one or more other components (such as an active substance) to form a slurry and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least some of the solvent to form the aerosol - forming film. The slurry can be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent. The aerosol - forming film can be a continuous film or a discontinuous film, with discrete portions of such a film arranged on a carrier. The aerosol - forming film is substantially free of tobacco.

[0060] The aerosol - forming film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form slices.

[0061] The aerosol - forming material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol - forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0062] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol - forming material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol - forming material to thermal energy so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol - forming material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol - forming material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol - forming material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0063] A consumable is an article that comprises or consists of an aerosol - forming material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. The consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol - forming material storage area, an aerosol - forming material transfer component, an aerosol - forming area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. The consumable may also include an aerosol generator (such as a heater) that dissipates heat during use to cause the aerosol - forming material to generate an aerosol. The heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material that can be heated conductively, or a susceptor.

[0064] A susceptor is a heating material that can be heated by penetration with a varying magnetic field (such as an alternating magnetic field). The susceptor may be a conductive material such that penetration of the susceptor with a varying magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material such that penetration of the heating material with a varying magnetic field causes hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both conductive and magnetic such that the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. In this document, an aerosol supply device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator.

[0065] A non - combustible aerosol supply system may include modular components, which include a reusable aerosol supply device and a replaceable aerosol - forming article. In some implementations, the non - combustible aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller (or control circuit). The power source may include, for example, an electrical power source such as a battery or a rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non - combustible aerosol supply device may also include an aerosol - forming component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol - forming article may partially or wholly include the aerosol - forming component.

[0066] Induction heating is the process of heating an object called a susceptor by utilizing a changing magnetic field that penetrates a conductive object. This process is described by Faraday's law of induction and Ohm's law. An induction heater can include an electromagnet and means for passing a changing current, such as an alternating current, through the electromagnet. When the electromagnet and the object to be heated are properly positioned relative to each other such that the resulting changing magnetic field generated by the electromagnet penetrates the object, one or more eddy currents are generated within the object. The object has a resistance to the flow of current, and when such eddy currents are generated in the object, they resist the flow of the object's resistance such that the object is heated. This process is known as Joule, Ohmic, or resistive heating.

[0067] Hysteresis heating is the process of heating an object by utilizing a changing magnetic field that penetrates an object made of a magnetic material. The magnetic material can be considered to include many atomic-level magnets or magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field penetrates such a material, the magnetic dipoles align with the magnetic field. Thus, when a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field generated by an electromagnet, penetrates the magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes with the changing applied magnetic field. Such reorientation of the magnetic dipoles causes heat to be generated in the magnetic material.

[0068] When an object is both conductive and magnetic, utilizing a changing magnetic field to penetrate the object can cause both Joule heating and hysteresis heating in the object. Additionally, the use of a magnetic material can strengthen the magnetic field, which can enhance Joule heating.

[0069] Various embodiments will now be described in more detail.

[0070] Figure 1 An aerosol-generating system 10 according to one embodiment is shown, which includes an aerosol supply device 100 shown as being located within a cavity of a charging unit 101. The aerosol supply device 100 is arranged to generate an aerosol in use from an aerosol-generating article 300 that can be inserted into the aerosol supply device 100.

[0071] The aerosol supply device 100 is an elongated structure that extends along a longitudinal axis. Additionally, the aerosol supply device has: a proximal end 107 that is closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when in use by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply device 100; and a distal end 109 that is farthest from the user in use. The proximal end 107 can also be referred to as the "mouth end". The aerosol supply device 100 thus also defines a proximal direction that, in use, is directed towards the user, i.e., in the direction from the distal end 109 to the proximal end 107. Additionally, the aerosol supply device 100 similarly defines a distal direction that, in use, is directed away from the user, i.e., in the direction from the proximal end 107 to the distal end 109.

[0072] The aerosol supply device 100 can be removably inserted into the charging unit 101 for charging. The charging unit 101 includes a cavity for receiving the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 can be inserted into the cavity via an opening. The cavity may also include a longitudinal opening. A part of the aerosol supply device 100 may include a first side. One or more user-operable control elements (such as the button 106) that can be used to operate the aerosol supply device 100 may be provided on the first side of the aerosol supply device 100. The first side of the aerosol supply device 100 can be received in the longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

[0073] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view showing a part of the aerosol supply device 100 is presented. The aerosol supply device 100 includes a heating chamber 201. The aerosol supply device 100 includes an opening 203 leading to the heating chamber 201. A rod-shaped aerosol-generating article 300 containing an aerosol-generating material can be inserted through the opening and held within the heating chamber of the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol-generating article 300 can be heated by a heating element 202 such that an aerosol or other inhalable medium can be generated, which can then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0074] The charging unit 101 may include a slidable cover 103. When the aerosol supply device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 for recharging, the slidable cover 103 can be closed to cover the opening leading to the aerosol supply device 100. The charging unit 101 may include a user interface, such as a display 108.

[0075] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a main housing 200 surrounding the heating chamber 201. The main housing 200 includes an outer wall 200a. The outer wall 200a is tubular and extends along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. The outer wall 200a at least partially surrounds the heating chamber 201. The outer wall 200a is a double-walled structure containing an air gap 218. The air gap 218 provides thermal insulation. In an embodiment, the outer wall 200a can be solid.

[0076] The outer wall 200a defines a receiving chamber 208 of the aerosol supply device 100. The receiving chamber 208 is a volume at least partially enclosed within the outer wall 200a. The outer wall 200a can be in a shape other than tubular and can be any shape that encloses (e.g., surrounds) and defines the receiving chamber 208. The outer wall 200a is closed at its distal end by a base wall 200b. The base wall 200b provides the base of the receiving chamber 208. The base wall 200b and the outer wall 200a together define the receiving chamber 208. The receiving chamber 208 is open at its proximal end. The heating chamber 201 is included within the receiving chamber 208 and can be a sub-component of the receiving chamber. In an embodiment, the receiving chamber 208 and the base wall 200b can be omitted.

[0077] The heating element 202 is disposed within the main housing 200. The heating element 202 extends or projects into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 includes a base portion 202a that is located within a recess provided in a part of the main housing 200. The heating element 202 includes a resistive heating element. The heating element 202 includes pins that, in use, are insertable into the distal end of the aerosol-generating article received within the heating chamber 201 so as to internally heat the aerosol-generating article. In an embodiment, the heating element 202 includes a resistive vane heating element. Such vane elements include a planar portion and a pointed portion. The pointed portion of the resistive vane heating element may assist in penetrating into the distal end of the aerosol-generating article 300. In an embodiment, the heating element 202 includes an inductive heating element that is arranged to internally heat the aerosol-generating article 300. The inductive heating element may similarly include pins or vanes. In an embodiment, the heating element 202 is part of the aerosol-generating article 300 rather than part of the aerosol supply device 100. In an embodiment, the heating element 202 defines the heating chamber 201. In an embodiment, the heating element 202 surrounds the heating chamber 201. In an embodiment, the heating element 202 is tubular. Such embodiments may employ one or more of resistive heating, inductive heating, etc.

[0078] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a receiver 205. The receiver 205 is at least partially disposed within the receiving chamber 208. The receiver 205 defines the heating chamber 201. The receiver 205 is arranged to receive at least a portion of the article 300. The receiver 205 includes a longitudinal portion 207a. The longitudinal portion 207a is a tubular wall. The longitudinal portion is a peripheral wall 207a. The receiver 205 includes a base 207b. The base 207b includes a hole 206. The heating element 202 projects through the hole 206. The base 207b closes the distal end of the tubular wall 200a. The proximal end of the wall 200a is open.

[0079] In an embodiment, the outer wall 200a forms the receiver 205. That is, the receiver 205 need not be a separate component and the main housing 200 of the aerosol supply device 100 or another component may define the heating chamber 201.

[0080] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a removal mechanism 204 that is removably held to the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 is held to the main housing 200 such that at least a portion of the removal mechanism 204 extends into the receiving chamber 208. The removal mechanism 204 is removable from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 includes the receiver 205. The removal mechanism 204 may be inserted at least partially into the receiving chamber 208 or removed at least partially from the receiving chamber through an opening in the receiving chamber 208. In an embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 is omitted. In an embodiment, the receiver 205 is not part of the removal mechanism 204. The receiver 205 may be provided as a permanent part of the device 100.

[0081] When the removal mechanism 204 is detached from the main housing 200 and then withdrawn from the main housing 200, the base 207b of the receiver 205 will engage with the distal face of the aerosol-generating article 300, such that the base 207b will pull the article 300 away from and off the heating element 202. As a result, the article 300 can be completely removed from the aerosol supply device 100 by the removal mechanism 204. In particular, the article 300 can be removed from the aerosol supply device 100, thereby substantially reducing the risk of the article 300 breaking or a portion of the article 300 remaining attached to the heating element 202. Additionally, in the event that any used aerosol-generating material or any other portion of the article 300 does become detached or break, the base 207b can be arranged to capture any debris or other portions of the article 300 and ensure that the debris is collected by the base 207b and thus removed with the removal mechanism 204. Once the removal mechanism 204 has been removed from the aerosol supply device 100, the removal mechanism 204 can then be emptied and / or cleaned. The removal of the removal mechanism 204 from the body 200 of the aerosol supply device 100 also facilitates access to the heating element 202 and, in particular, enables the heating element 202 to be cleaned by a cleaning tool.

[0082] To hold the removal mechanism 204 to the main housing 200, the removal mechanism 204 is pushed in the distal direction (i.e., towards the distal end of the main housing 200) to engage with the main housing 200 until the removal mechanism 204 cannot move further in the distal direction. In the following description, when the removal mechanism 204 is referred to as being “held to” the main housing 200, this refers to when the removal mechanism 204 is engaged with the main housing 200 and cannot move further in the distal direction.

[0083] The tubular wall 207a and the base 207b together define and enclose the heating chamber 201. The heating chamber 201 defines an article receiving chamber. The article receiving chamber includes an inner surface, at least a portion of which is configured to contact the aerosol-generating article 300. The inner surface includes a longitudinally extending portion provided by the tubular wall 207a and an end portion provided by the base 207b. When the aerosol-generating article 300 is received in the heating chamber 201, it can contact both the longitudinally extending portion of the inner surface and the end portion of the inner surface. In particular, the article chamber (i.e., the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b) can be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article in the form of a longitudinally extending and cylindrical rod such that when the article is received in the article chamber, the longitudinal axis of the article is parallel to (and optionally in line with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. In an embodiment, the inner surfaces of the tubular wall 200a and the base 200b do not contact the article 300. The article 300 can be supported by the heating element 202 or any other suitable component.

[0084] In an embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 includes a first magnet or magnetizable material. The main housing 200 may include a second magnet or magnetizable material. In use, the removal mechanism 204 may be magnetically held to the main housing 200 by the interaction of the first magnet or magnetizable material and the second magnet or magnetizable material, thereby forming a holding configuration.

[0085] The removal mechanism 204 may be completely disassembled from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 may be held to the main housing 200 by a magnetic force generated by the attraction between the first magnet or magnetizable material and the second magnet or magnetizable material. The removal mechanism 204 may be disassembled from the main housing 200 by overcoming the magnetic force between the first magnet or magnetizable material and the second magnet or magnetizable material. Alternatively or additionally, the removal mechanism 204 may be removably held to the main housing 200 by other means. For example, the removal mechanism 204 may be configured to be removably held to the main housing 200 by an interference fit with the main housing. Alternatively, the removal mechanism 204 may be movable relative to the main housing 200 but not disassembled from the main housing 200. For example, the removal mechanism 204 may be arranged to slide within the main housing 200. In an embodiment, the first and second magnets or magnetizable materials may be omitted.

[0086] Additional embodiments are contemplated, in which the first magnet or magnetizable material and / or the second magnet or magnetizable material may comprise an electromagnet.

[0087] The receiver 205 includes an outer cover 210. When held to the main housing 200, the outer cover 210 encapsulates (e.g., covers) at least a portion of the main housing 200, such as the outer wall 200a of the main housing. The tubular wall 207a, the base 207b, and the outer cover 210 may include an integral component (e.g., a monolithic component) formed by molding. Alternatively, the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b may include a first component, and the outer cover 210 may include a second separate component. The first component and the second component may then be fixed together. In an embodiment, the outer cover 210 may be omitted.

[0088] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device 100 is shown, and the main housing 200 is shown, which has a heating element 202 extending into the heating chamber 201, and wherein the removal mechanism 204 is removably held to the main housing 200.

[0089] The removal mechanism 204 surrounds the heating element 202. The aerosol-generating article 300 is shown as being at least partially located within the article chamber and thus also within the heating chamber 201, such that the aerosol-generating article 300 is positioned onto the heating element 202.

[0090] When attached to the main housing 200, the outer cover 210 forms part of the outer housing of the aerosol supply device 100. The outer cover 210 may radially surround the tubular element 207a, with a gap provided between the inner element (such as the tubular element 207a) and the outer cover 210, the gap extending along a portion of the length of the removal mechanism 204 and configured to receive a portion of the main housing 200, such as the outer wall 200a. The removal mechanism 204 may define an opening 203 through which the aerosol-generating article 300 may be inserted in a first direction for insertion into the article chamber. This first direction is the distal direction and may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. In an embodiment, the opening 203 is configured to contact the aerosol-generating article such that when the aerosol-generating article 300 is inserted through the opening 203 and into the article chamber, air is substantially prevented from passing through the opening 203.

[0091] Figure 4 An embodiment of the main housing 200 is shown, particularly the outer wall 200a. As depicted, the outer wall 200a is tubular. The main housing 200 further includes a ledge 214 configured to contact the outer cover 210 (such as its distal end) of the removal mechanism 204 when the removal mechanism 204 is attached to the main housing 200. In an embodiment, the ledge 214 is omitted.

[0092] The outer wall 200a includes a non-circular portion 250. The non-circular portion 250 is configured to be received in a corresponding non-circular cavity of the removal mechanism 204 so as to prevent relative rotational movement between the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200 when the removal mechanism 204 is attached to the main housing 200. The non-circular portion 250 may be omitted.

[0093] In use, a user may insert or partially insert the aerosol-generating article 300 through the opening 203 into the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol-generating article 300 is received within the tubular wall 207a of the receiver 205 and is thus received in the article chamber defined by the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b, and additionally received in the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may be arranged to pierce the distal end of the aerosol-generating article 300 such that the heating element 202 is located within the aerosol-generating article 300 and is arranged to heat the aerosol-generating article 300 via internal heating. In an embodiment, the heating element 202 does not pierce the article 300 but rather surrounds or is adjacent to the article 300.

[0094] Return reference Figure 3Once the aerosol-generating article 300 has been inserted into the aerosol supply device 100, the user can then initiate a session. During the session, the aerosol-generating article 300 can be heated by the heating element 202. It should be understood that the usage session can last for several minutes. For example, according to various embodiments, the usage session can last for 2 - 3 minutes, 3 - 4 minutes, or 4 - 5 minutes.

[0095] At the end of the usage session, the user may wish to remove the used aerosol-generating article 300 from the aerosol supply device 100 and optionally replace the used aerosol-generating article 300 with a fresh one. According to one embodiment, in order to remove the used aerosol-generating article 300 after the usage session, the user can detach the removal mechanism 204 from the main housing 200 by applying a force to the removal mechanism 204 to overcome the attractive magnetic force between a first magnet provided in the removal mechanism 204 and a second magnet provided in the main housing 200.

[0096] The aerosol supply device 100 includes an air path 220 configured to support an air flow. The air path 220 extends through one or more air inlets 221 of the aerosol supply device 100. The one or more air inlets 221 are located on the lateral side of the aerosol supply device 100. The air inlet 201 is arranged to direct air into the aerosol supply device 100. The air inlet 221 can be spaced apart from the proximal end 107 of the aerosol supply device 100. The lateral side of the aerosol supply device 100 is the outer surface of the aerosol supply device 100 that extends between the proximal end 107 and the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100 and can deviate from and extend outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the device. In an embodiment, the air inlet 221 can be located at a position outside the lateral side of the aerosol supply device 100. For example, one or more air inlets can be located on the proximal end 107 or the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0097] In an embodiment, the one or more air inlets 221 allow air around the device perimeter to be drawn into the air path 220, i.e., they are arranged to optionally direct air from the peripheral region of the aerosol supply device 100 into the aerosol supply device 100 in an inlet direction that is a radial direction towards the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. Such air can be colder and / or cleaner than the air that can be contaminated by the user's exhalation closer to the proximal perimeter of the device 100.

[0098] One or more air inlets 221 may be disposed distally of the removal mechanism 204. In an embodiment, the one or more air inlets 221 include one or more openings defined between a distal end of an outer cover 210 of the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200, such openings being present when the removal mechanism 204 is held to the main housing 200. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more air inlets 221 may correspond to one or more openings through the outer cover 210 or one or more openings in the main housing 200.

[0099] After commencing at the one or more air inlets 221, the air path 220 then extends through one or more first air channels 222 in a second direction towards the proximal end 107 of the aerosol supply device 100. This second direction may be a proximal direction, and the one or more first air channels 222 may extend to the proximal end of the main housing 200, i.e., to the proximal end of the outer wall 200a. Thus, the one or more first air channels 222 are arranged to optionally direct air from the one or more air inlets 221 in the second direction to the proximal end of the main housing 200. In an embodiment, the one or more first air channels 222 longitudinally overlap with the heating element 202 and optionally extend beyond the proximal end of the heating element 202. The one or more first air channels 222 are arranged radially outside the article chamber and the heating chamber 201.

[0100] The second direction is at an angle to the inlet direction, such as perpendicular to the inlet direction, and thus it can be said that the air is arranged to follow an L-shaped path through the one or more air inlets 221 and along the one or more first air channels 222. By directing air along this L-shaped path and then through the aerosol-generating article (as will be discussed in more detail below) from the distal end, the air is drawn from an area remote from the proximal end 107 or “mouth end” of the device and thus may be less warm and less likely to include the user's exhaled breath. Additionally, by drawing this air through the aerosol supply device 100 along the L-shaped path, the air may be cooler and cleaner and thus can be used to provide a cooling effect within the aerosol supply device 100, particularly in the area adjacent to the heating element 202 and the heating chamber 201.

[0101] In an embodiment, the one or more first air channels 222 may include a gap defined between an outer wall 200a of the main housing 200 and an outer cover 210 of the removal mechanism 204, such gap being formed when the removal mechanism 204 is held to the main housing 200. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more first air channels 222 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the removal mechanism (e.g., within the outer cover 210).

[0102] Figure 5 and Figure 6An embodiment of the receiver 205 is shown. The outer cover 210 is removed to allow viewing of the tubular wall 207a. The flange 212 extends radially from the tubular wall 207a. The flange 212 is an annular member, although in embodiments it may extend only around a portion of the periphery of the receiver 205. The flange 212 extends from the proximal end of the tubular wall 207a. In this embodiment, the flange 212, the tubular wall 207a, and the base 207b are a single-piece unitary component that defines the receiver 205.

[0103] Return reference Figure 3 , after passing through one or more first air channels 222, the air path 220 divides into an internal air path 240 and an external air path 242. The air inlet 221 is common to the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242. In embodiments, a separate air inlet 221 may be provided for each of the internal air path 240 and the external air path 241. In embodiments, one or more of the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242 may extend from the opening 203. The flange 212 serves as a separator that divides the air path 220 into the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242. The internal air path 240 extends on the proximal surface of the flange 212. The external air path extends below the distal surface of the flange 212.

[0104] The internal air path 240 is at least partially defined on the inner side of the receiver 205. The external air path 242 is at least partially defined on the outer side of the receiver 205. Generally, the internal air path 240 then extends axially between the inner surface of the tubular wall 207a and the article 300. Generally, the external air path 242 then extends axially between the outer surface of the tubular wall 207a and the inner surface of the outer wall 200a of the main housing 200. In embodiments, the external flow path 242 may extend between or be defined within substantially any component of the aerosol supply device 100. The internal air path 240 extends within the heating chamber 201, and the external air path 240 extends outside the heating chamber 201. The internal air path 240 and the external air path 242 are separated by the receiver 205 along at least a portion of their extent, and in embodiments by the flange 212, the tubular wall 207a, and the base 207b. In embodiments, the flange 212 may be omitted.

[0105] The internal air path 240 will now be described in more detail.

[0106] After extending through one or more first air channels 222, the internal air path 240 extends in a third direction through one or more second air channels 223. The one or more second air channels 222 extend in a third direction that is radially inward, and are arranged to direct air from the one or more first air channels 222 in a third direction towards the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0107] The one or more second air channels 223 include one or more air flow openings in the removal mechanism 204. In particular, the one or more second air channels 223 include one or more openings defined between the upper surface of the flange 212 of the removal mechanism 204 and the outer cover 210 of the removal mechanism 204. By defining one or more openings between the flange 212 and the outer cover 210 of the removal mechanism 204, the manufacture of the removal mechanism 204 can be made simpler.

[0108] The one or more openings may include one, two, three, four, five, six or more openings. The one or more openings may be equidistantly arranged from each other so that air can flow circumferentially evenly. The one or more openings extend radially inward from the one or more first air channels 222 to the article chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more second air channels 223 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the removal mechanism (e.g., within the outer cover 210). The one or more openings may be omitted.

[0109] After extending through one or more second air channels 223, the internal air path 240 then extends in a fourth direction through one or more third air channels 224. The one or more third air channels 224 are arranged to direct air from the one or more second air channels 223 in a fourth direction, and extend in a fourth direction towards the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100, and optionally extend in a distal direction. This fourth direction may be opposite and parallel to the second direction. The one or more third air channels 224 are arranged to direct air towards the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100 to the distal end of the article chamber, the distal end of the heating chamber 201 or beyond the heating chamber 201 in the distal direction.

[0110] The one or more third air channels 224 include a gap defined between the inner surface of the heating chamber 201 and the aerosol-generating article 300 when the aerosol-generating article 300 is received by the inner surface in the heating chamber 201, such as a gap defined between the tubular wall 207a and the aerosol-generating article 300.

[0111] Figure 6The removal mechanism 204 is shown, where the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b that define the article chamber are visible. The outer cover 210 of the removal mechanism 204 is removed to allow observation of the internal parts (including the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b).

[0112] The inner surface of the heating chamber 201 (in particular the tubular wall 207a) includes one or more longitudinal grooves 271 that extend in a distal direction along the inner surface of the heating chamber 201, and the longitudinal grooves extend for the length of the tubular wall 207a from the proximal end of the tubular wall 207a to the base 207b. These longitudinal grooves 271 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100, but this is not always necessary. Each of the one or more longitudinal grooves 271 is configured to receive air from a corresponding one of the one or more second air channels 223.

[0113] When the aerosol-generating article 300 is received by the inner surface of the heating chamber 201, the aerosol-generating article 300 engages with the inner surface such that the one or more longitudinal grooves 271 and the aerosol-generating article 300 together define one or more third air channels 224, i.e., by covering each of the one or more longitudinal grooves 271 such that the one or more third air channels 224 include the gap between the one or more longitudinal grooves 271 of the inner surface and the aerosol-generating article 300.

[0114] The one or more longitudinal grooves 271 may include one, two, three, four, five, six or more longitudinal grooves 271. In an embodiment, the longitudinal grooves may be omitted. The one or more longitudinal grooves 271 may be equidistantly arranged from each other so that air can flow circumferentially uniformly. The inner surface also includes one or more protrusions 272 that are arranged on the inner surface of the tubular wall 207a and are configured to engage the article 300 received in the heating chamber 201, thereby applying pressure to the article 300 to hold the article 300 in place within the article chamber. In an embodiment, the protrusions 272 may be omitted. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more third air channels 224 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the removal mechanism 204.

[0115] After extending through the one or more third channels 224, the internal air path 240 extends in a fifth direction, optionally through one or more fourth air channels 226 that are arranged to direct air from the one or more third channels 224 in the fifth direction. The fifth direction is radially inward and towards the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0116] Figure 7An embodiment of the distal portion of the receiver 205 is shown, shown as partially cut away. The base 207b of the receiver 205 includes one or more radial grooves 281, which are defined between one or more stepped protrusions 282 in the base 207b. The one or more radial grooves 281 are arranged to be in fluid communication with a corresponding one or more longitudinal grooves 271 where the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b meet. The one or more radial grooves 281 extend radially inward from the radial extent of the base 207b, i.e., from the tubular wall 207a. In an embodiment, each of the one or more radial grooves 281 extends from the radial extent of the base 207b towards the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber 201. The one or more stepped protrusions 282 extend in the proximal direction. When the aerosol-generating article 300 is inserted into the heating chamber 201, the aerosol-generating article contacts the one or more stepped portions 282 and covers the one or more radial grooves 281, thereby forming one or more fourth air channels 226.

[0117] When the aerosol-generating article 300 is inserted into the heating chamber 201, the one or more longitudinal grooves 271 and the one or more radial grooves 281 are enclosed, thereby forming one or more third air channels 224 and one or more fourth air channels 226, respectively. The one or more third air channels 224 are arranged to direct air towards the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100 to the distal end of the heating chamber 201 (i.e., the base 207b), and the one or more fourth air channels 226 are arranged to direct this air radially inward towards the longitudinal axis 100 of the aerosol supply device 100. The internal air path 240 then reaches the distal end of the aerosol-generating article 300. In an embodiment, the one or more radial grooves 281 and the stepped protrusions 282 may be omitted. The base 207b of the receiver 205 may be substantially flat except for the ridge 290 which will be described below.

[0118] Thus, when viewed in cross-section, the internal air path 240 follows an 'M' shape, the plane of the cross-section including the longitudinal axis of the device 100. In an embodiment, the internal air path 240 may be different. The internal air path may follow any path that substantially directs air from the outside of the aerosol supply device to the base 207b of the receiver 205. For example, the internal air path 242 may extend in the distal and axial directions from the opening 203 between the article 300 and the wall 207a of the receiver 205 to the base 207b of the receiver 205.

[0119] Refer again to Figure 3, the external air path 242 will now be described in more detail. After extending through one or more first air channels 222, the external air path 242 extends in a third direction through one or more fifth air channels 228. One or more fifth air channels 228 extend in the third direction and are arranged to direct air from one or more first air channels 222 in the third direction. One or more fifth air channels 228 extend along the lower surface of the flange 212 to the outer surface of the tubular wall 207a of the receiver 205.

[0120] One or more fifth air channels 228 are defined between the flange 212 of the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200. More specifically, one or more fifth air channels 228 are defined between the lower surface of the flange 212 and the end face of the outer wall 200a of the main housing 200. By defining one or more fifth air channels 228 between the flange 212 of the receiver 205 and the main housing 200, the manufacture of the receiver 205 can be made simpler. Alternatively or additionally, one or more fifth air channels 228 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the receiver 205 (e.g., within the flange 212).

[0121] After extending through one or more fifth air channels 228, the external air path 242 then extends in a fourth direction through one or more sixth air channels 230. One or more sixth air channels 230 are arranged to direct air from one or more fifth air channels 228 in the fourth direction and extend in the fourth direction. One or more sixth air channels 230 are arranged to direct air towards the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100 to the distal end of the heating chamber 201 or beyond the heating chamber 201 in the distal direction. One or more sixth air channels 230 include a gap defined between the outer surface of the tubular wall 207a of the receiver 205 and the inner surface of the outer wall 200a of the main housing 200. Alternatively or additionally, one or more sixth air channels 230 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the receiver 205.

[0122] After extending through one or more sixth channels 230, the external air path 242 reaches the distal end of the receiver 205 and extends in a fifth direction, optionally through one or more seventh air channels 232 arranged to direct air from one or more sixth channels 230 in the fifth direction. One or more seventh air channels 232 include a space defined between the base 207a of the receiver 205 and the base wall 200b of the heating chamber 201.

[0123] After extending through one or more seventh air channels 232, the external air path 242 extends in a second direction through a hole 206 in the base 207b of the receiver 205. As previously discussed, the heating element 202 extends through the hole 206. The hole 206 is larger than the heating element 202. That is, a space is defined between the outer surface of the heating element 202 and the edge of the hole. The external air path 242 extends through this space. The external air path 242 then reaches the distal end of the article 300.

[0124] Thus, when viewed in cross-section, the external air path 242 follows an 'M' shape, the plane of the cross-section including the longitudinal axis of the device 100. In an embodiment, the external air path 242 can follow any path that substantially guides air from the outside of the aerosol supply device 100 to the hole 206 in the base of the receiver 205. For example, the external air path 242 can extend axially through an air channel from an air inlet in the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100 to the hole 206.

[0125] Referring again specifically to Figure 3 and Figure 7 , the receiver 205 includes a ridge 290 surrounding the hole 206. The ridge 290 extends circumferentially around the hole 206. The ridge 290 defines the hole 206. The ridge 290 is the lip of the hole 206. The lip projects in the longitudinal direction. The ridge extends at the edge of the hole. Thus, the ridge 290 defines the edge of the hole. The edge defines the circumferential extent of the hole. In other embodiments, the ridge 290 is offset from the edge of the hole 206. The ridge 290 is defined by a projecting member. The ridge 290 includes a radially inward face 292. In an embodiment, the radially inward face 292 forms the edge of the hole 206. The radially inward face 292 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. In an embodiment, the radially inward face 292 is inclined. That is, the radially inward face 292 extends at an angle transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0126] The ridge 290 includes a radially outward face 294. The radially outward face 294 is inclined. That is, the radially outward face 294 extends at an angle transverse to the longitudinal axis. In an embodiment, the radially outward face 294 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0127] The ridge 290 includes a contact surface 296. The contact surface 296 is configured to contact the article 300. The contact surface 296 is planar. The contact surface 296 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In an embodiment, the contact surface 296 includes different configurations. In such configurations, the contact surface 296 can extend to a vertex in the cross-section, can be arcuate, or can be omitted such that the radially inward face 292 and the radially outward face 294 converge with each other.

[0128] The ridge 290 stands upright from the base 207b. The ridge 290 extends in the proximal direction. In use, when the article 300 is fully inserted into the heating chamber 201, the ridge 290 contacts the distal end of the article 300. The ridge 290 is configured to cooperate with the article to surround the hole 206. In an embodiment, the ridge 290 is configured to expand the article 300. That is, the ridge 290 is configured to deform the article 300 or extend into the article 300. In an embodiment, the ridge 290 is configured not to expand the article 300.

[0129] The hole 206 is circular. In an embodiment, the hole has a non-circular configuration. In an embodiment, the shape of the hole corresponds to the shape of the heating element 202. The hole edge is offset from the heating element. That is, the hole edge does not contact the heating element 202. In an embodiment, a portion of the hole edge may contact the heating element 202. The spacing between the edge and the heating element 202 is equidistant around the heating element 202. Such an arrangement contributes to the consistency of the flow. In an embodiment, the spacing may be different.

[0130] The base 207b of the receiver 205 includes a base surface 209. In an embodiment, the base surface 209 forms part of one or more radial grooves 281. The base surface 209 is the upward-facing surface of the most distal end of the receiver 205. One or more stepped protrusions 282 may project from the base surface 209 in the proximal direction. The ridge 290 projects from the base surface 209 in the proximal direction. The base surface 209 extends between the ridge 290 and the wall 207a of the receiver 205. In use, the ridge 290 spaces the distal end of the article 300 from the base surface 209.

[0131] The ridge 290 projects from the stepped protrusion 282. In an embodiment, the stepped protrusion may be omitted. In an embodiment, the ridge 290 extends further in the proximal direction than the stepped protrusion 282. In use, the ridge 290 spaces the distal end of the article 300 from the respective upper surface of the or each stepped protrusion 282. In an embodiment, the ridge 290 and the or each stepped protrusion 282 are each configured to contact the article 300. In an embodiment, the ridge 290 extends into the article 300 to the extent that the distal end of the article contacts the or each stepped protrusion 282. In an embodiment, the ridge 290 extends the same distance in the proximal direction as the stepped protrusion 282, and the distal end of the article 300 contacts the ridge 290 and the respective upper surface of the or each stepped protrusion 282 in use.

[0132] A channel 211 is defined between each stepped protrusion 282 and the ridge 290. In an embodiment, the channel 211 is omitted and the stepped protrusion 282 extends to the ridge 290. The channel may enable circumferential air flow around the ridge 290. This can provide redundancy in case a part of the internal air path 240 is blocked and can provide more uniform ventilation for the article 300.

[0133] In use, the ridge 290 forms an air flow barrier. The ridge 290 is a barrier member. The ridge 290 is unbroken. In use, the ridge 290 prevents air flow from leaving the area including the hole. In Figure 7 an embodiment, the area is limited to the hole 206 itself. In an embodiment, the area includes a part of the substrate 207b.

[0134] In an embodiment, the stepped protrusion 282 is omitted and the substrate surface 209 is annular. In an embodiment, the substrate surface 209 is planar.

[0135] Air from the external air path 242 flows through the hole 206 into the area surrounded by the ridge 290. The ridge 290 is arranged to divide the distal end of the article 300 into an inner area and a peripheral area. Air from the external air path 242 flows into the inner area of the distal end of the article 300. The inner area of the distal end of the article 300 is included in the external air path 242. Air from the internal air path 240 flows into the peripheral area of the distal end of the article 300. The peripheral area of the distal end of the article 300 is included in the internal air path 240. The ridge 290 fluidly separates the internal air path 240 from the external air path 242. The ridge 290 prevents air mixing between the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242. Thus, air from the internal air path 240 enters a different part of the article 300 from the air in the external air path 242. This can provide more uniform ventilation for the article 300. The ridge 290 can also be used to prevent backflow or turbulence in the area of the heating element 202. Otherwise, the air in the area of the heating element 202 can be turbulent due to being heated by the heating element 202. Reducing turbulence can improve condensate management and reduce the likelihood of condensate formation in the relevant area that can cause blockage.

[0136] The aerosol-generating article 300 is configured such that air can enter at the distal end of the article 300 and leave the article 300 at the proximal end of the article 300. Thus, the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242 ultimately extend into the distal end of the aerosol-generating article 300. Air from the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242 passes through the article 300 and leaves the article 300 (optionally through the proximal end) for inhalation by the user. When the air is guided along the air path through the article 300, the vapor or aerosol generated by applying heat to the aerosol-generating article 300 using the heating element 202 can be carried by the air that enters the device through one or more air inlets 221 and is guided along the air path, and thus be delivered to the user together with the air.

[0137] Accordingly, the air path 220, including the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242, is arranged to direct air into the aerosol supply device 100 in the following manner: through one or more air inlets 221 in the inlet direction; through one or more first channels 222 in a second direction towards the proximal end 107 of the aerosol supply device 100; through one or more second channels 223 in a third direction towards the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100; then through one or more third channels 224 in a fourth direction towards the distal end 109 of the aerosol supply device 100; and then through one or more fifth air channels in a fifth direction towards the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. Then, the air path 220 is arranged to direct air from the distal end of the aerosol generating article 300 through the aerosol generating article 300 and to the user for inhalation.

[0138] Accordingly, the air path 220 through the aerosol supply device 100 is tortuous. Accordingly, this air path 220 can be well suited to provide a high pressure drop and resistance to user suction, as well as to provide cooling and ventilation in the area of the device adjacent to the heating chamber 201 (and in particular the heating element 202). In an embodiment, the air path 220 can extend longitudinally past the heating element 202 when extending through one or more first air channels 222 in the second direction and when extending through one or more third air channels 224 in the fourth direction.

[0139] A split or dual air path 220 (i.e., including an internal air path 240 and an external air path 242) can provide a higher flow rate, since the cross-sectional area of the air path 220 (the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242 in an embodiment) can be made relatively large. It can also be made to have less pressure loss, which can be desirable. In the case of a blockage, a split or dual air path can also provide redundancy: if one of the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242 is blocked, then air can continue to flow through the other flow path 240, 241. Such blockages can occur due to, for example, debris from the article 300 or condensate from the aerosol. A split or dual air path 220 can also provide improved recirculation of heat from the heating element 202: fresh air flowing along the outer surface of the receiver 205 and also along the outer surface of the article 300 can be preheated and carry heat back to the article 300. Such air can also particularly effectively cool components of the device 100 (such as the receiver 205), since the air flows over the inner surface and the outer surface of the receiver 205. This can reduce the outer surface temperature of the device 100, which can improve the user experience and improve energy efficiency.

[0140] It should be noted that although the air path 220 is discussed in the context of the aerosol supply device 100 including the main housing 200 and the removal mechanism 204 removably held by the main housing 200, this is not necessary. Instead, this air path 220 can be applied to an arrangement in which the aerosol supply device 100 does not include a removal mechanism 204 removably held by the housing. In such an arrangement, the receiving chamber 208 can correspond to the heating chamber 201 such that the inner surface in contact with the article 300 is the inner surface of the heating chamber 201; it can have all the same characteristics of the inner surface of the article chamber. Additionally, more generally, this air path 220 can be applied to any aerosol supply device 100 having a heating element 202 and a heating chamber 201 configured to receive an aerosol-generating article.

[0141] The various embodiments described herein are only for helping to understand and teach the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on equivalents of the claims, and that other embodiments can be utilized and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. The various embodiments of the invention can suitably include, consist of, or consist essentially of, in addition to those specifically described herein, a suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc. Further, the present disclosure can include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device, comprising: a receiver defining a heating chamber for receiving at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol - generating material; said receiver comprising: a base; a hole in said base; and a ridge rising from said base and surrounding said hole, wherein said ridge is configured to contact said article.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein Said ridge is configured to form an air - flow barrier when contacting said article to prevent air flow from leaving the area including said hole.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Said ridge is configured to cooperate with said article to surround said hole.

4. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Said ridge is arranged to divide an end portion of said article into an inner region and a peripheral region.

5. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising an air path arranged to direct air from outside the aerosol supply device to an end of said article, said air path passing through said hole of said receiver.

6. The aerosol supply device according to claim 5, wherein, Said air path is a first air path, and the aerosol supply device comprises a second air path arranged to direct air from outside the aerosol supply device to an end of said article and at least partially defined between said receiver and said article in use.

7. The aerosol supply device according to claim 6, wherein, Said ridge is configured to fluid - separate said first air path from said second air path.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, Said receiver is configured such that when said article is received in said heating chamber, there is a gap between said receiver and said article.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, Said ridge is configured to contact a distal end of said article.

10. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, Said receiver comprises a peripheral wall, a base surface being defined between said ridge and said peripheral wall, and wherein said ridge is configured to space an end portion of said article from said base surface.

11. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a heating element, wherein, The heating element extends through said hole into said heating chamber.

12. The aerosol supply device according to claim 11, wherein, The heating element is spaced from an edge of said hole.

13. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The aerosol supply device comprises a removal mechanism for removing said article from said heating chamber, and wherein said removal mechanism comprises said receiver.

14. The aerosol supply device according to claim 13, comprising a main housing, and wherein, Said removal mechanism is releasably held to the main housing in use.

15. An aerosol supply system, comprising the aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and an article containing an aerosol - generating material.

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