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 defines an opening through which the article is configured to be received into the heating chamber. The air inlet is arranged to direct air into the aerosol supply device. An inner air path is at least partially defined on an inner side of the receiver and arranged to provide air from the air inlet to the article, and an outer air path is at least partially defined on an outer side of the receiver and arranged to provide air from the air inlet to the article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and an aerosol generating 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 burning. 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 an embodiment described herein, there is provided an aerosol supply device, comprising: a receiver defining a heating chamber for receiving at least a portion of an article containing aerosol generating material, the receiver defining an opening through which the article is configured to be received into the heating chamber; an air inlet arranged to direct air into the aerosol supply device; an internal air path at least partially defined on the inner side of the receiver and arranged to supply air from the air inlet to the article; and an external air path at least partially defined on the outer side of the receiver and arranged to supply air from the air inlet to the article.

[0004] In an embodiment of any of the above, the air inlet can be a common air inlet for each of the internal air path and the external air path.

[0005] In an embodiment of any of the above, the internal air path can be at least partially defined between the receiver and the article in use.

[0006] In an embodiment of any of the above, the internal air path can be at least partially separated from the external air path. In an embodiment of any of the above, the internal air path can be at least partially separated from the external air path by the receiver.

[0007] In an embodiment of any of the above, the external air path can be at least partially defined by the outer surface of the receiver.

[0008] In an embodiment of any of the above, the air inlet can be different from the opening.

[0009] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol supply device can include a proximal end and a distal end. In an embodiment of any of the above, the opening can be at the proximal end. In an embodiment of any of the above, the air inlet can be spaced distally from the opening along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol supply device.

[0010] In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may include a substrate. In any of the above embodiments, the external air path may include a hole defined in the substrate.

[0011] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may include a heating member. In any of the above embodiments, the heating element may extend into the heating chamber. In any of the above embodiments, the heating member may stand in the heating chamber.

[0012] In any of the above embodiments, the heating member may extend through an opening in the substrate of the receiver.

[0013] In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may at least partially define an air passage.

[0014] In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may include a tubular wall. In any of the above embodiments, the air passage may be defined by the tubular wall. In any of the above embodiments, the air passage may be partially defined by the inner surface of the tubular wall.

[0015] In any of the above embodiments, the air passage may extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol supply device.

[0016] In any of the above embodiments, the air passage may define at least a portion of the internal air path.

[0017] 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 in the main housing.

[0018] In any of the above embodiments, the external air path may be at least partially defined between the main housing and the receiver.

[0019] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may include a removal mechanism for removing the article from the heating chamber.

[0020] In any of the above embodiments, the removal mechanism may include a receiver.

[0021] In any of the above embodiments, the main housing may include a tubular wall. In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may be received in the tubular wall.

[0022] In any of the above embodiments, the removal mechanism may be releasably held to the main housing in use.

[0023] In any of the above embodiments, the receiver may include an outer cover that at least partially encapsulates the heating chamber.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, the gap between the tubular wall of the receiver and the outer cover may be configured to receive at least a portion of the tubular wall of the main housing.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, the internal air path may extend partially in a first axial direction of the aerosol supply device and partially in a second axial direction of the aerosol supply device. In any of the above embodiments, the second axial direction may be opposite to the first axial direction.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, the external air path may extend partially in a first axial direction of the aerosol supply device and partially in a second axial direction of the aerosol supply device. In any of the above embodiments, the second axial direction may be opposite to the first axial direction.

[0027] In any of the above embodiments, the first axial directions of the internal air path and the external air path may be parallel.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, the second axial directions of the internal air path and the external air path may coincide.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, the internal air path may have at least two axial direction changes in direction.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the external air path may have at least two axial changes in direction.

[0031] In any of the above embodiments, the air inlet may be arranged to receive an air flow in a radial direction of the aerosol supply device.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the article may be inserted into the heating chamber in a first longitudinal direction. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may be an elongate aerosol supply device having a longitudinal axis. In any of the above embodiments, the first longitudinal direction may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0033] According to an embodiment described herein, there is provided an aerosol supply device comprising: a receiver defining a heating chamber for receiving at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol-forming material, the receiver defining an opening through which the article is configured to be received into the heating chamber.

[0034] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol supply device according to any of the above embodiments and an article comprising an aerosol-forming material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1A perspective view showing an aerosol supply device located within a charging unit;

[0037] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 A perspective cross-sectional view of a part of the aerosol supply device;

[0038] Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a part of the aerosol supply device;

[0039] Figure 4 Showing the part of the aerosol supply device where the removal mechanism is removed Figure 1 A perspective view of a part of the aerosol supply device;

[0040] Figure 5 Showing Figure 1 A perspective view of a part of the removal mechanism of the aerosol supply device;

[0041] Figure 6 Showing Figure 1 A perspective cross-sectional view of a part of the removal mechanism of the aerosol supply device; and

[0042] Figure 7 Showing Figure 1 A perspective cross-sectional view of a part of the removal mechanism of the aerosol supply device. Detailed Description

[0043] 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 capable of delivering at least one substance to a user without burning.

[0044] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0045] 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 necessary.

[0046] 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.

[0047] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that uses a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of these aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not include nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0048] Generally, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include a non-combustible aerosol supply device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0049] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol-generating materials 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.

[0050] 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 that can be energized to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.

[0051] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include a zone for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation zone, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0052] In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include an aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage zone, an aerosol-generating material delivery component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation zone, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0053] An aerosol-generating material is a material capable of generating an aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid or semi-solid (such as a gel), which may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavoring agent.

[0054] The aerosol - generating 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 - generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol - generating material is substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol - generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0055] The aerosol - generating material may comprise or be an aerosol - generating film. The aerosol - generating 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 - generating 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 - generating film can be a continuous film or a discontinuous film, with discrete portions of such a film disposed on a carrier. The aerosol - generating film can be substantially free of tobacco.

[0056] The aerosol - generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form slices.

[0057] The aerosol - generating material may include one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol - forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0058] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol - generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol - generating material to thermal energy in order to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol - generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol - generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator can be configured to subject the aerosol - generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0059] A consumable is an article that includes or consists of an aerosol - generating 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 - generating material storage area, an aerosol - generating material transfer component, an aerosol - generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. The consumable may also include an aerosol generator (such as a heater) that dissipates heat during use to generate an aerosol from the aerosol - generating material. The heater can include, for example, a combustible material, a material that can be heated conductively, or a susceptor.

[0060] The susceptor is a heating material that can be heated by penetration of a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor can be a conductive material such that penetration of the susceptor by a varying magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material can be a magnetic material such that penetration of the heating material by a varying magnetic field causes hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor can be both conductive and magnetic such that the susceptor can be heated by two heating mechanisms. In this document, an aerosol supply device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator.

[0061] A non-flammable aerosol supply system can include modular components that include a reusable aerosol supply device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply device can include a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source can include, for example, an electrical power source such as a battery or a rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply device can also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol generating article can partially or fully include the aerosol generating component.

[0062] Inductive heating is the process of heating an object called a susceptor by penetration of a varying magnetic field through 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 varying 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 varying 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 called Joule, Ohmic, or resistive heating.

[0063] Hysteresis heating is the process of heating an object by penetration of a varying magnetic field through an object made of a magnetic material. A 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 varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field generated by an electromagnet for example, penetrates a magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes with the varying applied magnetic field. Such reorientation of the magnetic dipoles causes heat to be generated in the magnetic material.

[0064] When the object is both conductive and magnetic, penetration of the object by a varying magnetic field can cause both Joule heating and hysteresis heating in the object. In addition, the use of a magnetic material can strengthen the magnetic field, which can enhance Joule heating.

[0065] Various embodiments will now be described in more detail.

[0066] Figure 1There is shown an aerosol-generating system 10 according to one embodiment, 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 is insertable into the aerosol supply device 100.

[0067] The aerosol supply device 100 is an elongate structure extending along a longitudinal axis. Further, 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 furthest from the user in use. The proximal end 107 may 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 likewise 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.

[0068] The aerosol supply device 100 may 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 may be inserted into the cavity via an opening. The cavity may also include a longitudinal opening. A portion of the aerosol supply device 100 may include a first side. One or more user-operable control elements (such as a button 106) that may 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 may be received in the longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

[0069] Figure 2 There is shown a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device 100. 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 may be inserted through the opening and held within the heating chamber of the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol-generating article 300 may be heated by a heating element 202 such that an aerosol or other inhalable medium may be generated, which may then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0070] 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 may be closed to cover the opening into the aerosol supply device 100. The charging unit 101 may include a user interface, such as a display 108.

[0071] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a main housing 200 surrounding a 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 surrounds the heating chamber 201. The outer wall 200a is a double-wall including an air gap 218. The air gap 218 provides thermal insulation. In an embodiment, the outer wall 200a may be solid.

[0072] 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 may be shaped other than tubular and may 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 a base for 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 may be a sub-component of the receiving chamber.

[0073] A heating element 202 is provided in 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 in a groove provided in a part of the main housing 200. The heating element 202 includes a resistive heating element. The heating element 202 includes a pin that may be inserted into the distal end of the aerosol-generating article received within the heating chamber 201 during use 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 a pin or a vane. 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.

[0074] 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 receiver 205 includes a base 207b. The base 207b includes a hole 206. The heating element 202 projects through the hole 206.

[0075] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a removal mechanism 204 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 a receiver 205. The removal mechanism 204 is insertable at least partially into or removable at least partially from the receiving chamber 208 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.

[0076] 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, with the result that the base 207b will pull the article 300 away from and away from 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 part of the article 300 does disassemble or break, the base 207b can be arranged to capture any fragments or other parts of the article 300 and ensure that the fragments are 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] The tubular wall 207a and the base 207b can together define and enclose a heating chamber 201. The heating chamber 201 defines a product receiving chamber. The product receiving chamber includes an inner surface configured to contact the aerosol-generating product 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 product 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 product chamber (i.e., the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b) can be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating product in the form of a longitudinally extending and cylindrical rod such that when the product is received in the product chamber, the longitudinal axis of the product is parallel to (and optionally in line with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0079] In an embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 includes a first magnet or magnetizable material. The main housing 200 can include a second magnet or magnetizable material. In use, the removal mechanism 204 can 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.

[0080] The removal mechanism 204 can be completely disassembled from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 can 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 can 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 can be removably held to the main housing 200 by other means. For example, the removal mechanism 204 can be configured to be removably held to the main housing 200 by an interference fit with the main housing. Alternatively, the removal mechanism 204 can be movable relative to the main housing 200 but not disassembled from the main housing 200. For example, the removal mechanism 204 can be arranged to slide within the main housing 200.

[0081] Additional embodiments are contemplated where the first magnet or magnetizable material and / or the second magnet or magnetizable material can include an electromagnet.

[0082] 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 can include an integral (e.g., monolithic) component formed by molding. Alternatively, the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b can include a first component, and the outer cover 210 can include a second separate component. The first component and the second component can then be fixed together.

[0083] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view showing a part of the aerosol supply device 100, and showing the main housing 200 having a heating element 202 extending into the heating chamber 201, and wherein the removal mechanism 204 is removably held to the main housing 200.

[0084] 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.

[0085] When held 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 can radially surround the tubular element 207a, wherein a gap is provided between the inner element (such as the tubular element 207a) and the outer cover 210, the gap extending along a part of the length of the removal mechanism 204 and configured to receive a part of the main housing 200, such as the outer wall 200a. The removal mechanism 204 can define an opening 203 through which the aerosol-generating article 300 must be inserted in a first direction in order to be inserted into the article chamber. This first direction is the distal direction and can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. In an embodiment, this 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.

[0086] 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 held to the main housing 200.

[0087] 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 in order to prevent relative rotational movement between the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200 when the removal mechanism 204 is held to the main housing 200.

[0088] In use, a user may insert or partially insert an 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 within the article chamber defined by the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b, and is additionally received within 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 by internal heating.

[0089] Return reference Figure 3 , once the aerosol-generating article 300 has been inserted into the aerosol supply device 100, the user may then initiate a session. During the session, the aerosol-generating article 300 may be heated by the heating element 202. It should be understood that the usage session may last for several minutes. For example, according to various embodiments, the usage session may last for 2 - 3 minutes, 3 - 4 minutes or 4 - 5 minutes.

[0090] 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 aerosol-generating article. According to one embodiment, in order to remove the used aerosol-generating article 300 after the usage session, the user may detach the removal mechanism 204 from the main housing 200 by applying a force to the removal mechanism 204 so as 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.

[0091] 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 inlets 221 may 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 may be away from and outward from the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0092] One or more air inlets 221 allow air around the perimeter of the device 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 may be cooler and / or cleaner than air closer to the proximal perimeter of the device 100 that may be contaminated by the user's exhalation.

[0093] One or more air inlets 221 may be arranged distally of the removal mechanism 204. In an embodiment, one or more air inlets 221 comprise one or more openings defined between the distal end of the 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, 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.

[0094] After starting at 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 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, one or more first air channels 222 are arranged to optionally direct air from one or more air inlets 221 in the second direction to the proximal end of the main housing 200. In an embodiment, 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. One or more first air channels 222 are arranged radially outside the article chamber and the heating chamber 201.

[0095] 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 one or more air inlets 221 and along one or more first air channels 222. By directing the 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 a region 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 exhalation. Furthermore, 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 region adjacent to the heating element 202 and the heating chamber 201.

[0096] In an embodiment, 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, the gap being formed when the removal mechanism 204 is held to the main housing 200. Alternatively or additionally, 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).

[0097] Figure 5 and Figure 6 An embodiment showing the receiver 205 is presented. The outer cover 210 is removed to allow viewing of the tubular wall 207a. A flange 212 extends radially from the tubular wall 207a. The flange 212 is an annular member, although in an embodiment it may extend only around a portion of the circumference 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 member that defines the receiver 205.

[0098] Returning to Figure 3 , after extending 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 shared by the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242. 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.

[0099] 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. The internal air path 240 extends within the heating zone 201, and the external air path 240 extends outside the heating zone 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, more specifically by the flange 212, the tubular wall 207a, and the base 207b. In an embodiment, the flange 212 may be omitted.

[0100] The internal air path 240 will now be described in more detail.

[0101] 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 toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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 uniformly. 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).

[0104] 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 toward 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 toward 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 a distal direction.

[0105] 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.

[0106] Figure 6The removal mechanism 204 is shown, where the tubular wall 207a and the base 207b that define the product 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).

[0107] The inner surface of the heating chamber 201 (in particular the tubular wall 207a) includes one or more longitudinal grooves 271 that extend along the inner surface of the heating chamber 201 in the distal direction, 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.

[0108] 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, that is, 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.

[0109] The one or more longitudinal grooves 271 may include one, two, three, four, five, six or more longitudinal grooves 271. The one or more longitudinal grooves 271 may be arranged equidistantly from each other so that air can flow evenly circumferentially. 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 product chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more third air channels 224 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the removal mechanism 204.

[0110] After extending through 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, which are arranged to direct air from one or more third channels 224 in the fifth direction. The fifth direction is radially inwards and towards the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. 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 corresponding ones of the 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 inwards 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 such that 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.

[0111] Figure 7 An embodiment of the distal portion of the receiver 205 (shown partially cut away) is shown to allow viewing of the one or more longitudinal grooves 271 and the one or more radial grooves 281. 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 inwards 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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. The one or more fifth air channels 228 extend in the third direction and are arranged to direct air from the one or more first air channels 222 in the third direction. The 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.

[0114] The 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, the 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 the 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, the 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).

[0115] After extending through the 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. The one or more sixth air channels 230 are arranged to direct air from the one or more fifth air channels 228 in the fourth direction and extend in the fourth direction. The 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. The 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, the one or more sixth air channels 230 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the receiver 205.

[0116] After extending through the 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 the one or more sixth channels 230 in the fifth direction. The 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] The aerosol-generating article 300 is configured such that air can enter at the proximal end of the article and leave the article 300 at the distal end of the article. Thus, the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242 ultimately extend into the distal end of the aerosol-generating article 300. The 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 directed 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 directed along the air path, and is thus delivered to the user together with the air.

[0120] Thus, 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 an 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.

[0121] 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 provide cooling and ventilation in the region 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 a second direction and through one or more third air channels 224 in a fourth direction.

[0122] 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 (in an embodiment, the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the internal air path 240 and the external air path 242) can be made relatively large. The pressure loss can also be made less, which can be desirable. In the case of a blockage, the 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. The 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 the 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.

[0123] It should be noted that while the air path 220 is discussed in the context of an aerosol supply device 100 including a main housing 200 and a 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.

[0124] 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 comprise, 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 comprising an aerosol - generating material, the receiver defining an opening, the article being configured to be received through the opening into the heating chamber; an air inlet arranged to direct air into the aerosol supply device; an internal air path at least partially defined on the inner side of the receiver and arranged to supply air from the air inlet to the article; and an external air path at least partially defined on the outer side of the receiver and arranged to supply air from the air inlet to the article.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein The air inlet is a common air inlet for each of the internal air path and the external air path.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The internal air path is at least partially defined between the receiver and the article in use.

4. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The internal air path is at least partially separated from the external air path by the receiver.

5. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The external air path is at least partially defined by the outer surface of the receiver.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein, The opening is at the proximal end, and wherein the air inlet is spaced distally from the opening along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol supply device.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The receiver includes a base, and wherein the external air path includes a hole defined in the base.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a heating member standing in the heating chamber, wherein, The heating member extends through the hole in the base of the receiver.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a main housing, wherein, The receiver is in the main housing, and wherein the external air path is at least partially defined between the main housing and the receiver.

10. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9, wherein, The receiver is removably received in the main housing.

11. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The internal air path extends partially in a first axial direction of the aerosol supply device and partially in a second axial direction of the aerosol supply device, the second axial direction being opposite to the first axial direction.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The external air path extends partially in a first axial direction of the aerosol supply device and partially in a second axial direction of the aerosol supply device, the second axial direction being opposite to the first axial direction.

13. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, At least one of the internal air path and the external air path has at least two axial - direction changes in direction.

14. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The air inlet is arranged to receive an air flow in the radial direction of the aerosol supply device.

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

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