Aerosol supply system

Abstract

An aerosol-generating material delivery component (100) for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system (10). The aerosol-generating material delivery member (100) is formed of an electrically conductive material. The outer surface 102 of the aerosol-generating material delivery member (100) defines at least one groove 104. The aerosol-generating material delivery member (100) is arranged in direct contact with the aerosol-generating member (200).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol - forming material delivery component for use as part of a non - combustible aerosol supply system, an article including the aerosol - forming material delivery component, and a non - combustible aerosol supply system including the article. Background Art

[0002] Non - combustible aerosol supply systems for generating an aerosol for inhalation by a user are known in the art. Such systems typically include an aerosol - forming component capable of converting an aerosolizable material into an aerosol. In some cases, the generated aerosol is a condensed aerosol, whereby the aerosolizable material is first evaporated and then allowed to condense into an aerosol. In other cases, the generated aerosol is an aerosol produced by atomization of the aerosolizable material. Such atomization can be mechanically induced, for example, by subjecting the aerosolizable material to vibration in order to form small particles of the material entrained in an air stream. Alternatively, such atomization can be electrostatically or otherwise (such as by using pressure) induced.

[0003] Since such aerosol supply systems are intended to generate an aerosol that will be inhaled by a user, the characteristics of the generated aerosol should be taken into account. These characteristics can include the size of the particles of the aerosol, the total amount of the generated aerosol, etc.

[0004] In cases where the aerosol supply system is used to simulate a puffing experience, such as in an electronic cigarette or a similar product, control of these various characteristics is particularly important because a user may expect to generate a specific sensory experience by using the system.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol delivery system that has improved control over these characteristics. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol - forming material delivery component for use as part of a non - combustible aerosol supply system, wherein the aerosol - forming material delivery component is formed of a conductive material and an outer surface of the aerosol - forming material delivery component defines at least one groove.

[0007] In one aspect, the at least one groove has a depth of at least 0.01 mm.

[0008] In one aspect, the at least one groove has a width of at least 0.01 mm.

[0009] In one aspect, the at least one groove includes a plurality of grooves.

[0010] In one aspect, a hypothetical flat plane forms a best - fit plane passing through the outer surface.

[0011] In one aspect, the outer surface is undulated.

[0012] In one aspect, the outer surface is corrugated.

[0013] In one aspect, the outer surface is bridged.

[0014] In one aspect, the aerosol-forming material delivery member is formed of a thermally conductive material.

[0015] In one aspect, the aerosol-forming material delivery member comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one aspect, the metal alloy is stainless steel. In one aspect, the stainless steel is 316 stainless steel.

[0016] In one aspect, the aerosol-forming material delivery member is porous. In one aspect, the aerosol-forming material delivery member is a grid.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system, the article comprising: an aerosol-forming material delivery member formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol-forming material delivery member defines at least one groove; and an aerosol-forming member, wherein the aerosol-forming material delivery member is arranged to convey aerosolizable material to the aerosol-forming member, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce or prevent the risk of electrical short-circuiting between corresponding portions of the aerosol-forming member via the aerosol-forming material delivery member.

[0018] In one aspect, the aerosol-forming material delivery member may be in direct contact with, or is arranged to be in direct contact with, corresponding portions of the aerosol-forming member.

[0019] In one aspect, the at least one groove is arranged between sections of the aerosol-forming material delivery member that are, or are arranged to be, in direct contact with corresponding portions of the aerosol-forming member.

[0020] In one aspect, the aerosol-forming member includes a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. Each electrical connector may be arranged at a respective end of the aerosol-forming member.

[0021] In one aspect (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol - forming material delivery member and the corresponding part of the aerosol - forming member), the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing only through the aerosol - forming member is less than the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member.

[0022] In one aspect (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol - forming material delivery member and the corresponding part of the aerosol - forming member), the percentage decrease (X) in the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector from when passing only through the aerosol - forming member to when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member is defined by the following formula: X = 100×((R AGC - R AGTC ) / R AGC ) wherein, R AGC is the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing only through the aerosol - forming member, and R AGTC is the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member, and wherein X is at least 5%.

[0023] In one aspect (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol - forming material delivery member and the corresponding part of the aerosol - forming member), the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member is longer than the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing only through the aerosol - forming member.

[0024] In one aspect (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol - forming material delivery member and the corresponding part of the aerosol - forming member), the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member is tortuous.

[0025] In one aspect, the aerosol - forming member is formed of a conductive material.

[0026] In one aspect, the aerosol - forming member comprises a metallic material or is formed of a metallic material. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one aspect, the metal alloy is stainless steel. In one aspect, the stainless steel is 316 stainless steel.

[0027] In one aspect, the aerosol - forming member is substantially planar.

[0028] In one aspect, the aerosol generating component includes at least one elongated opening. In one aspect, the aerosol generating component includes a plurality of elongated openings. In one aspect, one or more of the elongated openings are open. In one aspect, one or more of the elongated openings are closed.

[0029] In one aspect, the elongated openings are spaced apart from each other. In one aspect, the elongated openings are spaced apart from each other along the axis of the aerosol generating component. In one aspect, the elongated openings are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating component. In one aspect, the elongated openings are arranged parallel to each other.

[0030] In one aspect, the aerosol generating material delivery component is characterized by any feature of the aerosol generating material delivery component of the above aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol supply system, the non-combustible aerosol supply system comprising: An article, the article comprising: an aerosol generating material delivery component formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol generating material delivery component defines at least one groove; and an aerosol generating component, wherein the aerosol generating material delivery component is arranged to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol generating component, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce the risk of electrical short circuit between corresponding portions of the aerosol generating component via the aerosol generating material delivery component or the at least one groove is configured to prevent electrical short circuit between corresponding portions of the aerosol generating component via the aerosol generating material delivery component; and A device for connecting to the article and delivering electrical power to the aerosol generating component, the device comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

[0032] The article may be characterized by any feature of the article of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

[0033] The article may be characterized by any feature of the article of any other aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Various embodiments will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol supply system according to the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 2A is a side view of an aerosol generating material delivery component of an aerosol supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2B is Figure 2A a bottom perspective view of the aerosol generating material delivery component in Figure 2C Yes Figure 2A A side view of the aerosol - forming material delivery component in [[]] arranged in direct contact with the aerosol - forming component; Figure 3A A side view of the aerosol - forming material delivery component of an aerosol supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3B Yes Figure 3A A bottom perspective view of the aerosol - forming material delivery component in [[]]; Figure 3C Yes Figure 3A A side view of the aerosol - forming material delivery component in [[]] arranged in direct contact with the aerosol - forming component; Figure 4A A side view of the aerosol - forming material delivery component of an aerosol supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4B Yes Figure 4A A bottom perspective view of the aerosol - forming material delivery component in [[]]; Figure 4C Yes Figure 4A A side view of the aerosol - forming material delivery component in [[]] arranged in direct contact with the aerosol - forming component; Figure 5 A plan view of the aerosol - forming component of an aerosol supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 6 Yes Figure 2C An alternative version of [[]] showing different current paths through the article. Detailed Description

[0036] Multiple aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are discussed / described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments can be implemented conventionally, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not discussed / described in detail. Accordingly, it will be understood that the aspects and features of the articles and systems discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented according to any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0037] As described above, the present disclosure relates to (but is not limited to) non-combustible aerosol supply systems and articles that generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material (also referred to herein as an "aerosolizable material") without burning the aerosol-forming material. Examples of such systems include electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating systems, and hybrid systems (which use a combination of aerosol-forming materials to generate an aerosol). In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also referred to 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 a requirement of the present disclosure. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-forming material heating system, also referred to as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system for generating an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-forming materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-forming materials in such a hybrid system may be in the form of, for example, a solid, a liquid, or a gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some examples, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-forming material and a solid aerosol-forming material. The solid aerosol-forming material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0038] Throughout the following description, the terms "e-cigarette" and "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used. However, it will be understood that these terms may be used interchangeably with the non-combustible aerosol (vapor) supply system or device as explained above.

[0039] In some examples, the present disclosure relates to consumables for holding an aerosol-forming material, and these consumables are configured to be used with a non-combustible aerosol supply device. These consumables may be referred to throughout the present disclosure as "articles".

[0040] A non-combustible aerosol supply system generally includes a device portion (also referred to herein as the "device") and a consumable / article portion (also referred to herein as the "article"). The device portion generally includes a power source and a controller. The power source may generally be an electrical power source, such as a rechargeable battery.

[0041] In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving or engaging with the consumable / article, an aerosol generator (which may or may not be located within the consumable / article), an aerosol generation area (which may be located within the consumable / article), a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0042] In some examples, the consumable / article for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply system can include an aerosol-forming material, an aerosol-forming material storage area (also referred to herein as a reservoir for aerosolizable material), an aerosol-forming material delivery component (e.g., a core, such as a wick), an aerosol generator (also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating component), an aerosol-generating area (also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating chamber), a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0043] The systems described herein generally generate an inhalable aerosol by evaporating the aerosol-forming material. The aerosol-forming material can include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavorants, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0044] The aerosol-forming material can be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel, which may or may not contain an active substance and / or a fragrance. In some examples, the aerosol-forming material can include an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some examples, the amorphous solid can be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid (such as a liquid) therein. In some examples, the aerosol-forming material can include, for example, from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% amorphous solid to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% amorphous solid.

[0045] As used herein, the term "active substance" can refer to a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance can be selected, for example, from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactive substances. The active substance can be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance can include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theobromine, vitamins (such as B6 or B12 or C), melatonin, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance can include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco or another botanical drug.

[0046] The aerosol-forming agent material can include one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol-forming agent material can include one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, glycerol diacetate mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0047] The one or more other functional materials may include one or more of a pH regulator, a colorant, a preservative, a binder, a filler, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant.

[0048] As used herein, the term "component" is used to refer to a part, section, unit, module, assembly, or the like of an electronic cigarette or similar device, which includes several smaller parts or elements and may be within a housing or wall. An electronic cigarette may be formed or constructed from one or more such components, and these components may be detachably or separably connectable to each other, or may be permanently joined together during manufacture to define the entire electronic cigarette. The present disclosure can be applied to (but is not limited to) such a system that includes: two components that can be separably connected to each other and, for example, a consumable / article component (also referred to herein as a cartridge or atomizer cartridge) configured to hold an aerosol-generating material; and a device / control unit having a battery for providing electrical power to operate an element for generating vapor from the aerosol-generating material.

[0049] Figure 1 is a highly schematic view (not to scale) of an exemplary non-combustible aerosol supply system such as electronic cigarette 10. Electronic cigarette 10 has a generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by the dashed line and includes two main components, namely a control or power component or section 20 (which may be referred to herein as the device) and a cartridge assembly or section 30 operating as a vapor-generating component (which may be referred to herein as the "article", "consumable", "atomizer", or "cartridge").

[0050] The cartridge assembly 30 includes a storage compartment (also referred to herein as a reservoir) 3 that houses an aerosolizable material, which includes, for example, a liquid formulation from which an aerosol will be generated, the liquid formulation containing, for example, nicotine. As an example, the aerosolizable material may contain approximately 1% to 3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, with the remainder consisting substantially of propylene glycol and possibly also containing other components such as water or flavorings. The storage compartment 3 is in the form of a storage tank, which is a container or receptacle in which the aerosolizable material can be stored such that the aerosolizable material is free to move and flow (if liquid) within the tank. Alternatively, the storage compartment 3 may contain a quantity of absorbent material such as cotton wool or fiberglass that holds the aerosolizable material within a porous structure. During manufacture, the storage compartment 3 may be sealed after filling so that it can be discarded after the aerosolizable material is depleted, or it may have an inlet port or other opening through which new aerosolizable material can be added. The cartridge assembly 30 also includes an electro-aerosol generating component 4 located outside the reservoir tank 3 for generating an aerosol by causing the aerosolizable material to evaporate. In many examples, the aerosol generating component may be a heating element (heater) that is heated by the passage of an electric current (via resistive or inductive heating) to raise the temperature of the aerosolizable material until it evaporates. An aerosol generating material delivery component (such as a wick or other porous element (not shown)) may be provided to convey the aerosolizable material from the storage compartment 3 to the aerosol generating component 4. The wick may have one or more portions located inside the storage compartment 3 so as to be able to absorb the aerosolizable material and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other portions of the wick that are in contact with the aerosol generating component 4. Thereby, the aerosolizable material is evaporated and will be replaced by new aerosolizable material conveyed to the aerosol generating component 4 through the wick.

[0051] The combination of the heater and the wick, or other devices of portions performing the same function, are sometimes referred to as an atomizer or atomizer assembly. Various designs are possible, in which the individual parts may be arranged differently compared to Figure 1 the height schematic. For example, the wick may be an element completely separate from the aerosol generating component, or the aerosol generating component may be configured to be porous and capable of directly performing the wicking function (e.g., by taking the form of a suitable resistive grid or capillary body).

[0052] In some cases, an aerosol-generating material delivery component for delivering a liquid for generating vapour can be formed at least in part by one or more slots, tubes or channels between a storage compartment and an aerosol-generating component, the slots, tubes or channels being narrow enough to support capillary action to draw the source liquid out of the storage compartment and convey it for evaporation. Generally, an atomizer can be regarded as an aerosol-generating component capable of generating vapour from an aerosolizable material delivered thereto, and a liquid conduit (passageway) capable of conveying a liquid from a storage compartment or similar liquid storage device to the aerosol-generating component by capillary force.

[0053] Typically, the aerosol-generating component is at least partially located within an aerosol-generating chamber that forms part of an air flow channel through the electronic cigarette / system. Vapour generated by the aerosol-generating component is driven into the chamber and, as air passes through the chamber and flows over or around the aerosol-generating component, it collects the generated vapour, whereby the vapour condenses to form the desired aerosol.

[0054] Return Figure 1 , the cartridge assembly 30 further includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening or air outlet through which a user can inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating component 4 and conveyed through the air flow channel.

[0055] The power component 20 includes a cell 5 (also referred to herein as a battery and which can be rechargeable) to supply power to the electrical components of the electronic cigarette 10, specifically the aerosol-generating component 4. Additionally, there is a printed circuit board 28 and / or other electronic devices or circuitry generally used to control the electronic cigarette. When vapour is required, e.g. in response to a signal from an air pressure sensor or air flow sensor (not shown) that detects an inhalation on the system 10, the control electronics / circuitry connects the vapour generating element 4 to the battery 5. During an inhalation, air enters through one or more air inlets 26 in the wall of the power component 20 to flow along the air flow channel. When the aerosol-generating component 4 receives power from the battery 5, the aerosol-generating component 4 evaporates the aerosolizable material conveyed from the storage compartment 3 to generate an aerosol, which is then inhaled by the user through the opening in the mouthpiece 35. The aerosol is carried along the air flow channel (not shown) to the mouthpiece 35, which connects the air inlet 26 to the air outlet when the user inhales on the mouthpiece 35. Thus, an air flow path through the electronic cigarette is defined between the air inlet to the atomizer (which may or may not be located in the power component) and the air outlet at the mouthpiece. In use, the direction of air flow along this air flow path is from the air inlet to the air outlet such that the atomizer can be described as being downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the air outlet.

[0056] In this specific example, the power component 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 are separate parts that are separable from each other by separation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, as Figure 1 indicated by the solid arrows in. When the device 10 is in use, the components 20, 30 are joined together by cooperating engagement elements 21, 31 (e.g., screws, magnetic or bayonet fittings), which provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the power component 20 and the cartridge assembly 30. However, this is merely an exemplary arrangement, and the various components can be distributed differently between the power component 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 and can include other components and elements. The two parts can be connected end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration as in Figure 1 , or connected in a different configuration (such as parallel, side-by-side arrangement). The system can be or can not be generally cylindrical and / or have a generally longitudinal shape. Either or both parts can be intended to be disposed of and replaced when depleted (e.g., the reservoir is empty or the battery is out of power), or intended for multiple uses achieved by some action (such as refilling the reservoir, recharging the battery or replacing the atomizer). Alternatively, the electronic cigarette 10 can be an integral device (disposable or refillable / rechargeable) that cannot be divided into two or more parts, in which case all components are included within a single body or housing. Examples of the present invention can be applied to any of these configurations as well as other configurations known to those skilled in the art.

[0057]

[0058] As mentioned, aerosol-generating components (such as heating elements) of the type that can be utilized in the atomizing portion of an electronic cigarette (the portion configured to generate vapor from a source liquid) combine the functions of heating and liquid delivery through both conductivity (resistive) and porosity. Note here that referring to conductivity (resistance) means a component having the ability to generate heat in response to the flow of current therein. Such a flow can be produced by so-called resistive heating or induction heating. Examples of materials suitable for this are conductive materials (such as metals or metal alloys) formed in a sheet-like form, i.e., a planar shape where the thickness is many times smaller than its length or width. Examples in this regard can be grids, meshes, lattices, etc. The grid can be formed by wires or fibers woven together or alternatively polymerized into a non-woven structure. For example, the fibers can be polymerized by sintering, where heat and / or pressure are applied to an aggregate of metal fibers to compact them into a single porous body. A planar aerosol-generating component has the potential to define a curved plane, and in these cases, referring to a planar aerosol-generating component forming a plane means a hypothetical flat plane that forms the best-fit plane through the component.These structures can provide voids and gaps of appropriate sizes between the metal fibers, thereby providing capillary forces for wicking liquids. Thus, these structures can also be considered porous as they can provide absorption and distribution of liquids. Additionally, due to the presence of voids and gaps between the metal fibers, air has the potential to permeate through the structure. Further, metals are electrically conductive and are thus suitable for resistive heating, whereby an electric current flowing through a material with resistance generates heat. However, this type of structure is not limited to metals. Other electrically conductive materials can be formed into fibers and made into a mesh, grid, or reticulated structure. Examples include ceramic materials, which may or may not be doped with substances intended to adjust the physical properties of the grid.

[0059] Such a planar sheet-like porous aerosol generating component can be arranged within an electronic cigarette such that it is located within an aerosol generating chamber that forms part of an airflow channel. The aerosol generating component can be oriented within the chamber such that the airflow through the chamber can flow in a surface direction, i.e., substantially parallel to the plane of the generally planar sheet-like aerosol generating component. Examples of such configurations can be found in WO2010 / 045670 and WO2010 / 045671, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Thus, air can flow over the heating element and collect the vapor. Thereby, aerosol generation is made very efficient. In an alternative example, the aerosol generating component can be oriented within the chamber such that the airflow through the chamber can flow in a direction substantially transverse to the surface direction (i.e., substantially orthogonal to the plane of the generally planar sheet-like aerosol generating component). Examples of such configurations can be found in WO2018 / 211252, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0060] The aerosol generating component can have and / or be formed from any one of the following structures: a woven or textile structure, a grid structure, a fabric structure, an open-cell fiber structure, an open-cell sintered structure, an open-cell foam, or an open-cell deposition structure. These structures are particularly suitable for providing an aerosol generating component with a high porosity. High porosity can ensure that the heat generated by the aerosol generating component is mainly used to evaporate the liquid, and high efficiency can be obtained. For these structures, a porosity greater than 50% can be envisaged. In one embodiment, the porosity of the aerosol generating component is 50% or greater, 60% or greater, 70% or greater. For example, the open-cell fiber structure can consist of a non-woven fabric, which can be arbitrarily compacted and can additionally be sintered to improve cohesion. For example, the open-cell sintered structure can consist of a granular, fibrous, or flocculent sintered composite produced by a casting film process. For example, the open-cell deposition structure can be produced by a CVD process, a PVD process, or by flame spraying. Open-cell foams are in principle commercially available and can also be obtained in a thin, fine-pored design.

[0061] In one embodiment, the aerosol - generating component is formed of a single layer. In one embodiment, the aerosol - generating component has at least two layers, wherein these layers comprise at least one of the following structures: plates, foils, papers, meshes, woven structures, fabrics, open - cell fiber structures, open - cell sintered structures, open - cell foams or open - cell deposition structures. For example, the aerosol - generating component can be formed by combining an electrically - heated resistor (composed of a metal foil) with a structure including a capillary structure. In cases where the aerosol - generating component is considered to be formed of a single layer, such a layer can be formed of a wire fabric or a non - woven metal fiber fabric. Advantageously but not necessarily, the individual layers are connected to each other by heat treatment (such as sintering or welding). For example, the aerosol - generating component can be designed as a sintered composite composed of a stainless - steel foil and one or more layers of stainless - steel wire fabric (materials such as AISI 304 or AISI 316). Alternatively, the aerosol - generating component can be designed as a sintered composite composed of at least two layers of stainless - steel wire fabric. These layers can be connected to each other by spot welding or resistance welding. The individual layers can also be mechanically connected to each other. For example, a double - layer wire fabric can be produced simply by folding a single layer. For example, heating conductor alloys (specifically NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys (“Kanthal”)) can also be used instead of stainless steel, which have a higher specific resistance than stainless steel. The material connection between the multiple layers is obtained by heat treatment, the result of which is that the multiple layers remain in contact with each other - even under adverse conditions, such as during thermal expansion caused by heating of the aerosol - generating component. Alternatively, the aerosol - generating component can be formed by sintering together multiple individual fibers. Thus, the aerosol - generating component can include sintered fibers (such as sintered metal fibers).

[0062] For example, the aerosol - generating component can include a conductive thin layer of a resistive material (such as platinum, nickel, molybdenum, tungsten or tantalum), which is applied to the surface of the evaporator by a PVD or CVD process or any other suitable process. In this case, the aerosol - generating component can include an electrically - insulating material, such as a ceramic. Examples of suitable resistive materials include stainless steels (such as AISI 304 or AISI 316) and heating conductor alloys - specifically NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys (“Kanthal”), such as DIN material numbers 2,4658, 2,4867, 2,4869, 2,4872, 1,4843, 1,4860, 1,4725, 1,4765 and 1,4767.

[0063] As described above, the aerosol generating member may be formed of a sintered metal fiber material and may be in the form of a sheet. Such a material may be considered a mesh or irregular grid and is formed by sintering spaced-apart metal fibers or strands arranged in a random alignment or array. A single layer of fibers or multiple layers, such as up to five layers, may be used. As an example, the metal fibers may have a diameter of 8 μm to 12 μm, arranged to provide a sheet having a thickness of 0.16 mm, and spaced apart to produce a material density of from 100 g / m 2 to 1500 g / m 2 such as from 150 g / m 2 to 1000 g / m 2 from 200 g / m 2 to 500 g / m 2 or 200 g / m 2 to 250 g / m 2 and a porosity of 84%. The range of the sheet thickness may also be from 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, such as from 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm. Specific thicknesses include 0.10 mm, 0.11 mm, 0.12 mm, 0.13 mm, 0.14 mm, 0.15 mm or 0.1 mm. Generally, the aerosol generating member has a uniform thickness. However, as will be understood from the discussion below, the thickness of the aerosol generating member may also vary. For example, this may be due to some parts of the aerosol generating member having been compressed. Different fiber diameters and thicknesses may be selected to vary the porosity of the aerosol generating member. For example, the aerosol generating member may have a porosity of 66% or greater, or 70% or greater, or 75% or greater, or 80% or greater, or 85% or greater, or 86% or greater.

[0064] The aerosol generating member may form a generally flat structure including a first surface and a second surface. The generally flat structure may take the form of any two-dimensional shape, for example, circular, semi-circular, triangular, square, rectangular and / or polygonal.

[0065] The width and / or length of the aerosol generating member may be from about 1 mm to about 50 mm. For example, the width and / or length of the evaporator may be 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm or 10 mm. The width may generally be less than the length of the aerosol generating member. It will be understood that the dimensions of the aerosol generating member may vary.

[0066] In the case where the aerosol generating component is formed of a resistive material, a current is allowed to flow through the aerosol generating component in order to generate heat (so-called Joule heating). In this regard, the resistance of the aerosol generating component can be appropriately selected. For example, the aerosol generating component can have a resistance of 2 ohms or less (such as 1.8 ohms or less, such as 1.7 ohms or less, such as 1.6 ohms or less, such as 1.5 ohms or less, such as 1.4 ohms or less, such as 1.3 ohms or less, such as 1.2 ohms or less, such as 1.1 or less, such as 1.0 ohms or less, such as 0.9 ohms or less, such as 0.8 ohms or less, such as 0.7 ohms or less, such as 0.6 ohms or less, such as 0.5 ohms or less). The parameters of the aerosol generating component (such as material, thickness, width, length, porosity, etc.) can be selected in order to provide a desired resistance. In this regard, a relatively low resistance will facilitate drawing a higher power from the power source, which may be beneficial for generating a high aerosolization rate. On the other hand, the resistance should not be too low so as not to compromise the integrity of the aerosol generator. For example, the resistance cannot be lower than 0.5 ohms. The aerosol generating component can have a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector can be arranged at opposite ends of the aerosol generating component with respect to each other. The resistance can be located between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector. Each electrical connector can be used to connect to an electrical contact so that the aerosol generating component can be powered. For example, the electrical connector can be connected to a power source through the electrical contact.

[0067] A planar aerosol generating component (such as a heating element) suitable for use in the systems, devices, and articles disclosed herein can be formed by stamping or cutting (such as laser cutting) the desired shape from a larger sheet of porous material. This can include stamping out, cutting away, or otherwise removing material to form openings in the aerosol generating component. These openings can affect the ability of air to pass through the aerosol generating component and the tendency of current to flow in certain regions.

[0068] In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating material delivery component 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system 10, wherein the aerosol generating material delivery component 100 is formed of a conductive material and an outer surface 102 of the aerosol generating material delivery component defines at least one groove 104.

[0069] The present inventor has found that during the use of an article in which an aerosol-generating material delivery member can directly contact a corresponding part of an aerosol-generating member under certain conditions, there may be a risk of an electrical short circuit occurring between the corresponding parts of the aerosol-generating member via the aerosol-generating material delivery member. Such a short circuit may reduce the performance of the article and / or its components or damage the article and / or its components. With at least one groove 104, the article 30 can be arranged such that the risk of an electrical short circuit occurring between the corresponding parts of the aerosol-generating member 200 via the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 is eliminated or improved. Without being bound by theory, the at least one groove 104 is considered to increase the resistance of the current path between the corresponding parts of the aerosol-generating member 200 via the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 (i.e., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 and the aerosol-generating member 200). Without being bound by theory, the resistance of the current path can be increased by increasing the length of the current path and / or reducing the cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100. By increasing the resistance of the current path between the corresponding parts of the aerosol-generating member 200 via the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100, the risk of an electrical short circuit occurring between the corresponding parts of the aerosol-generating member 200 via the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 can be reduced or eliminated.

[0070] An exemplary aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 is shown in Figures 2A to 4C FIG.

[0071] As Figures 2A to 4C shown, the at least one groove 104 can be elongate. The at least one groove can extend from one side of the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 to the other side of the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 (e.g., the opposite side), as Figures 2A to 4C shown in

[0072] In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.01 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.02 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.03 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.04 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.05 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.06 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.07 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.08 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.09 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.1 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.12 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.15 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.2 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.25 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.3 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.4 mm. The depth may be the maximum depth.

[0073] In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.01 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.02 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.03 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.04 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.05 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.06 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.07 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.08 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.09 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.1 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.12 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.15 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.2 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.25 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.3 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.4 mm. This width can be the maximum width.

[0074] The depth "d" and width "w" of the at least one groove 104 are shown in Figure 2C , Figure 3C and Figure 4C are shown.

[0075] It can be understood from Figures 2A to 4C that a hypothetical flat plane can be formed that passes through the outer surface 102 that defines the at least one groove 104 as the best-fit plane. When there are multiple grooves 104, these grooves can be arranged in series. The outer surface 102 can define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. The grooves 104 can be separated from each other.

[0076] Referring to Figures 2A to 2C , the outer surface 102 that defines the at least one groove 104 can be corrugated. The corrugated portion of the outer surface 102 can define the at least one groove 104. For example, the corrugated portion of the outer surface 102 can define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 can have a polygonal (e.g., triangular) profile. Each ridge 103 can have a polygonal (e.g., triangular) profile.

[0077] Referring to Figures 3A to 3C , the outer surface 102 defining at least one groove 104 may be undulating. The undulations of the outer surface 102 may define at least one groove 104. For example, the undulations of the outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a curved profile.

[0078] Referring to Figures 4A to 4C , the outer surface 102 defining at least one groove 104 may be bridge-shaped. For example, the bridge-shaped outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) profile. Each ridge 103 may have a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) profile.

[0079] In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 may be formed of a thermally conductive material. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 1 W / mK (watts per meter-kelvin) at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 2 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 4 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 5 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 8 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 10 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 12 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 14 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 15 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C.

[0080] In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a conductivity of at least 1×10 5 S / m (siemens per meter) at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a conductivity of at least 2×10 5 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 has a conductivity of at least 5×10 5The electrical conductivity of S / m. In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 has a conductivity of at least 1×10 6 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20 °C. In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 has a conductivity of at least 1.2×10 6 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20 °C. In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 has a conductivity of at least 1.4×10 6 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20 °C. In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 has a conductivity of at least 1.4×10 6 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20 °C.

[0081] In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one aspect, the metal alloy is stainless steel. In one aspect, the stainless steel is 316 stainless steel.

[0082] In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 is porous. In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 is a grid.

[0083] In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 30 for use as part of a non - combustible aerosol supply system 10, the article 30 comprising: An aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 defines at least one groove 104; and An aerosol - forming member 200, wherein the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 is arranged to deliver an aerosolizable material to the aerosol - forming member 200, wherein at least one groove 104 is configured to reduce or prevent the risk of electrical short - circuiting between corresponding parts of the aerosol - forming member 200 via the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100.

[0084] The aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 may be characterized by any of the features of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 of the above aspects of the present disclosure.

[0085] In Figure 2C 、 Figure 3C and Figure 4C exemplary arrangements of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 and the aerosol - forming member 200 provided in the article 30 are depicted. Other components of the article 30 are not shown but will be known to those skilled in the art.

[0086] As will be understood from Figure 2C , Figure 3C and Figure 4C the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 is arranged to deliver aerosol - formable material to the aerosol - generating member 100. For example, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 may be in direct contact with or may be arranged to be in direct contact with a corresponding part of the aerosol - generating member 200. The “corresponding part” (i.e., there is direct contact between the corresponding members 100, 200) is shown in Figure 2C , Figure 3C and Figure 4C .

[0087] “Can be in direct contact” means that the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can but does not necessarily need to be in direct contact with a corresponding part of the aerosol - generating member 200. In other words, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can be spaced apart from a corresponding part of the aerosol - generating member 200 such that an empty space is provided between the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 and the corresponding part of the aerosol - generating member 200. In this way, direct contact between the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 and the corresponding part of the aerosol - generating member 200 can occur (e.g., through the normal use of the article 30), which can cause relative movement of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 and / or the aerosol - generating member 200. The “direct contact” between the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 and the corresponding part of the aerosol - generating member 200 is illustrated in Figure 2C , Figure 3C and Figure 4C .

[0088] Referring again to Figure 2C , Figure 3C and Figure 4C , at least one groove 104 may be arranged between sections of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 that can be in direct contact with or are arranged to be in direct contact with a corresponding part of the aerosol - generating member 200.

[0089] In one aspect, the “internal structure” of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 (e.g., due to any holes or gaps) is not considered to be part of the at least one groove 104.

[0090] Figure 5An exemplary aerosol-generating component 200 is shown. The aerosol-generating component 200 may be formed of a conductive material. The aerosol-generating component 200 may comprise a metallic material. The aerosol-generating component 200 may be formed of a metallic material. The metallic material may be a metal. The metallic material may be a metal alloy. The metal alloy may be stainless steel, such as 316 stainless steel. The aerosol-generating component 200 may be substantially planar.

[0091] The aerosol-generating component 200 includes an aerosol-generating section 202 configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosolizable material. The aerosol-generating component 200 may be a resistive heating element. The aerosol-generating component 200 may include a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204. Each electrical connector 203, 204 may be arranged at a respective end of the aerosol-generating component 200. The electrical connectors may be in any form that facilitates electrical connection. For example, the electrical connectors may correspond to contact points (e.g., tabs that may form an electrical connection by separately contacting electrical contacts), and / or include safety connection means for securely connecting to electrical contacts.

[0092] The aerosol-generating component 200 may include at least one elongated opening 205, such as a plurality of elongated openings 205. As used herein, an "opening" needs to be a through-hole. One or more of the elongated openings 205 may be open, as Figure 5 shown. However, those skilled in the art will understand that one or more of the elongated openings 205 may be closed. The arrangement of the open and / or closed openings 205 may vary.

[0093] The elongated openings 205 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the elongated openings 205 may be spaced apart from each other along the axis of the aerosol-generating component 200 (e.g., a longitudinal axis, as Figure 5 shown). The elongated openings 205 may be arranged parallel to each other. The elongated openings 205 may be arranged in series. A first series of elongated openings 205 may be arranged along a first edge of the aerosol-generating component 200. A second series of elongated openings 205 may be arranged along a second edge of the aerosol-generating component 200 (e.g., opposite the first edge). The first series and the second series may be offset from each other, such as Figure 5As shown. The elongated opening 205 may be a slot or a slit. The elongated opening 205 increases the resistance across the aerosol-generating member 200 (e.g., measured between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204) by, for example, increasing the current path length through the aerosol-generating member 200 and / or reducing the cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating member 200 through which the current path passes. In one aspect, the elongated opening or each elongated opening 205 extends through at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70% or at least 80% of the width (or length) of the aerosol-generating member 200. In one aspect, the width of the elongated opening or each elongated opening 205 is at least 0.05 mm, at least 0.08 mm, at least 0.1 mm, at least 0.12 mm, at least 0.14 mm, at least 0.16 mm, at least 0.18 mm or at least 0.2 mm.

[0094] The aerosol-generating section 202 is configured to be heated to an aerosolization temperature at which aerosolizable material is aerosolized. The aerosol-generating section 202 may include or be formed by a plurality of elongated heating sections 206. The elongated heating sections 206 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the elongated heating sections 206 may be spaced apart from each other along the axis (e.g., longitudinal axis) of the aerosol-generating member 200. The elongated heating sections 206 may be arranged parallel to each other. The elongated heating sections 206 may be arranged in series. The elongated heating sections 206 are configured to be heated to an aerosolization temperature at which aerosolizable material is aerosolized.

[0095] In one aspect (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 and the corresponding portion of the aerosol-generating member 200), the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing only through the aerosol-generating member 200 may be less than the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100. In one aspect (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 and the corresponding portion of the aerosol-generating member 200), the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 may be longer than the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing only through the aerosol-generating member 200. In one aspect (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 and the corresponding portion of the aerosol-generating member 200), the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol-generating material delivery member 100 may be tortuous.

[0096] These concepts are inFigure 6 as shown, wherein the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when only passing through the aerosol generating member 200 is indicated by arrow "A", and the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol generating material conveying member 100 is indicated by arrow "B". The current path herein is the path with the least resistance when only passing through the aerosol generating member 200 or passing through the aerosol generating material conveying member 100.

[0097] In this document, "the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when only passing through the aerosol generating member 200 is less than the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol generating material conveying member 100" means that the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when only passing through the current path across the aerosol generating member 200 is less than the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through any current path across the aerosol generating material conveying member 100.

[0098] In this document, "when passing through the aerosol generating material conveying member 100 between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204" means starting from the first electrical connector 203, passing through the upstream section of the aerosol generating member (such as the upstream section of the aerosol generating section 202), passing through at least a part of the aerosol generating material conveying member 100, and reaching the second electrical connector 204 through the downstream section of the aerosol generating member (such as the downstream section of the aerosol generating section 202). In this context, "upstream" and "downstream" are relative to the direction of current flow.

[0099] The percentage decrease (X) in the resistance from the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when only passing through the aerosol generating member 200 to the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol generating material conveying member 100 is defined by the following formula: X = 100×((R AGC - R AGTC ) / R AGC ) where R AGC is the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when only passing through the aerosol generating member 200, and R AGTC is the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol generating material conveying member 100, and wherein X is at least 5%.

[0100] X can be at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 12%, at least 14%, at least 16%, at least 18%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45% or at least 50%.

[0101] The aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can have a conductivity of at least 1×10 5 S / m (siemens per meter), at least 2×10 5 S / m, at least 5×10 5 S / m, at least 1×10 6 S / m, at least 1.2×10 6 S / m, at least 1.4×10 6 S / m or at least 1.4×10 6 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20 °C.

[0102] The aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can be formed of a thermally conductive material. In this way, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can effectively distribute (and / or dissipate) heat in order to avoid or reduce the risk of forming local "hot spots" during use. In contrast, an aerosol - forming material delivery member with relatively poor thermal conductivity (such as cotton) may experience local "hot spots". In cotton, these local "hot spots" may cause the unintentional formation of carbonyls.

[0103] The aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can have a thermal conductivity of at least 1 W / mK (watts per meter - kelvin), at least 2 W / mK, at least 4 W / mK, at least 5 W / mK, at least 8 W / mK, at least 10 W / mK, at least 12 W / mK, at least 14 W / mK or at least 15 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20 °C.

[0104] The aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can comprise a metallic material. The aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 can be formed of a metallic material. The metallic material can be a metal. The metallic material can be a metal alloy. The metal alloy can be stainless steel, such as 316 stainless steel. In one aspect, the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 comprises a mesh or is formed of a mesh.

[0105] The aerosol - forming member 200 can have a conductivity of at least 1×10 5 S / m (siemens per meter), at least 2×10 5 S / m, at least 5×10 5 S / m, at least 1×10 6 S / m, at least 1.2×10 6 S / m, at least 1.4×106 S / m or at least 1.4×10 6 S / m of electrical conductivity.

[0106] The aerosol - generating component 200 can be formed of a thermally - conductive material.

[0107] The aerosol - generating component 200 can have a thermal conductivity of at least 1 W / mK (watts per meter - kelvin), at least 2 W / mK, at least 4 W / mK, at least 5 W / mK, at least 8 W / mK, at least 10 W / mK, at least 12 W / mK, at least 14 W / mK or at least 15 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C.

[0108] In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 30 for use as part of a non - combustible aerosol supply system 10, the article 30 comprising: An aerosol - generating material delivery component 100, formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol - generating material delivery component 100 defines at least one groove 104; and An aerosol - generating component 200, comprising a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204, wherein the aerosol - generating material delivery component 100 is arranged to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol - generating component 200, wherein the aerosol - generating material delivery component 100 is in direct contact with or arranged to be in direct contact with a corresponding part of the aerosol - generating component 200.

[0109] wherein, when there is direct contact between the aerosol - generating material delivery component 100 and a corresponding part of the aerosol - generating component 200, the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing only through the aerosol - generating component 200 is less than the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol - generating material delivery component 100.

[0110] The article 30 can be characterized by any of the features of the article 30 of the above - mentioned aspect of the present disclosure.

[0111] In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non - combustible aerosol supply system 10, the non - combustible aerosol supply system comprising: Article 30, the article comprising: an aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 defines at least one groove 104; and an aerosol - forming member 200, wherein the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 is arranged to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol - forming member 200, and wherein the at least one groove 104 is configured to reduce or prevent an electrical short - circuit between corresponding portions of the aerosol - forming member 200 via the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100; and Device 20 for connecting to the article 30 and delivering electrical power to the aerosol - forming member 200, the device comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

[0112] The article 30 may be characterized by any feature of the article 30 of the above - aspects of the present disclosure.

[0113] In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non - combustible aerosol supply system 10, the non - combustible aerosol supply system comprising: Article 30, the article comprising: an aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 defines at least one groove 104; and an aerosol - forming member 200 including a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204, wherein the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 is configured to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol - forming member 200, and wherein the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 is in direct contact with or arranged to be in direct contact with corresponding portions of the aerosol - forming member 200, and wherein when there is direct contact between the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100 and the corresponding portions of the aerosol - forming member 200, the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing only through the aerosol - forming member 200 is less than the resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member 100; and Device 20 for connecting to the article 30 and delivering electrical power to the aerosol - forming member 200, the device 20 comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

[0114] The article 30 may be characterized by any feature of the article 30 of the above - aspects of the present disclosure.

[0115] Any aspect of the present disclosure may be defined relative to any other aspect of the present disclosure. For example, one aspect of the present disclosure may include any feature of any other aspect of the present disclosure and / or the features of one aspect of the present disclosure may be defined in terms of the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

[0116] The accompanying drawings in this document are schematic and not drawn to scale. The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of the 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 defined by the claims or on the equivalents of the claims, and that other embodiments may be used and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, the various embodiments of the present invention may suitably include, consist of, or consist essentially of a suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc. Further, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol - forming material delivery member, as part of a non - combustible aerosol supply system, wherein, The aerosol - forming material delivery member is formed of a conductive material, and an outer surface of the aerosol - forming material delivery member defines at least one groove.

2. The aerosol-generating material delivery component according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one groove has a depth of at least 0.01 mm.

3. The aerosol-generating material delivery member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one groove has a width of at least 0.01 mm.

4. The aerosol - generating material delivery member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The at least one groove comprises a plurality of grooves.

5. The aerosol-generating material delivery member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, A hypothetical flat plane forms a best - fit plane passing through the outer surface.

6. The aerosol-generating material delivery member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The outer surface is undulating.

7. The aerosol-generating material delivery member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The outer surface is corrugated.

8. The aerosol-generating material delivery member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The outer surface is bridged.

9. The aerosol-generating material delivery member according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The aerosol - forming material delivery member is formed of a thermally conductive material.

10. The aerosol-generating material delivery member according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The aerosol - forming material delivery member comprises or is formed of a metallic material.

11. An article, forming part of a non - combustible aerosol supply system, the article comprising: An aerosol - forming material delivery member, formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol - forming material delivery member defines at least one groove; and An aerosol - forming member, wherein the aerosol - forming material delivery member is arranged to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol - forming member, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce the risk of electrical short - circuiting between corresponding parts of the aerosol - forming member via the aerosol - forming material delivery member, or the at least one groove is configured to prevent electrical short - circuiting between corresponding parts of the aerosol - forming member via the aerosol - forming material delivery member.

12. The article according to claim 11, wherein, The aerosol - forming material delivery member can be in direct contact with corresponding parts of the aerosol - forming member, or the aerosol - forming material delivery member is arranged to be in direct contact with corresponding parts of the aerosol - forming member.

13. The article according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The at least one groove is arranged between sections of the aerosol - forming material delivery member that can be in direct contact with corresponding parts of the aerosol - forming member or are arranged to be in direct contact with corresponding parts of the aerosol - forming member.

14. The article according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The aerosol - forming member includes a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector.

15. The article according to claim 14, wherein The resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing only through the aerosol - forming member is less than the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member.

16. The article according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The percentage decrease (X) in resistance from the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing only through the aerosol - forming member to the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing through the aerosol - forming material delivery member is defined by the following formula: X = 100×((R AGC - R AGTC ) / R AGC ) wherein, R AGC is the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when only passing through the aerosol generating member, and R AGTC is the resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector when passing through the aerosol generating material delivery member, wherein X is at least 5%.

17. The article according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein, The aerosol - forming member comprises or is formed of a metallic material.

18. The article according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein, The aerosol - forming member is substantially planar.

19. The article according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein, The aerosol - forming member includes at least one elongated opening.

20. The article according to claim 19, wherein, The elongated opening or each elongated opening is open at a periphery of the aerosol - forming member.

21. The article according to any one of claims 11 to 20, wherein, The aerosol - forming material delivery member has the features of any one of claims 2 to 10.

22. A non - combustible aerosol supply system, comprising: An article, the article comprising: an aerosol - forming material delivery member formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol - forming material delivery member defines at least one groove; and an aerosol - forming member, wherein the aerosol - forming material delivery member is arranged to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol - forming member, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce a risk of electrical short - circuiting between corresponding portions of the aerosol - forming member via the aerosol - forming material delivery member or is configured to prevent electrical short - circuiting between corresponding portions of the aerosol - forming member via the aerosol - forming material delivery member; and A device for connecting to the article and delivering electrical power to the aerosol - forming member, the device comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

23. The aerosol supply system according to claim 22, wherein, The article has the features of any one of claims 12 to 20.

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