Aerosol provision device

Abstract

An aerosol provision device (200) comprising: an article receiving portion (206) configured to receive, in use, an article (300) containing aerosol generating material (302); and a heating arrangement (312) comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material. The aerosol provision device further comprises an electrical connector (230) for supplying power to the article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts (232) for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article. One or more of the plurality of connector electrical contacts each comprise one or more device magnetic components (390) configured to apply a force to the article that forces the article into a position in which the plurality of connector electrical contacts are engaged with the corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and an article for use in the aerosol supply device, the article comprising an aerosol generating material. Background Technology

[0002] Smoking products such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Efforts have been made to provide alternatives to these products by producing products that release compounds without burning. Examples of these products are so-called "heat-not-burn" products or tobacco heating devices or products that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. This material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] Aerosol supply systems covering the aforementioned devices or products are known. Common systems utilize a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by a user. Often, the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide different aerosols for inhalation. Resistance heating systems are known to be used as heaters to generate aerosols from a suitable medium. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: a product receiving portion configured to receive a product in use, the product including aerosol generating material and a heating device including one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material; and an electrical connector for supplying power to the product received by the product receiving portion, the electrical connector including a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with corresponding plurality of product electrical contacts of the product, wherein one or more of the connector electrical contacts each include one or more device magnetic components, the one or more device magnetic components being configured to apply a force to the product when the product is inserted into the product receiving portion, the force forcing the product to a position where the plurality of connector electrical contacts engage with the corresponding plurality of product electrical contacts of the product.

[0005] In one embodiment, the magnetic component of one or more devices includes one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may include one or more permanent magnets.

[0006] In one embodiment, the magnetic components of one or more devices comprise magnetic or magnetizable materials. For example, ferromagnetic or subferromagnetic materials.

[0007] In one embodiment, the magnetic component of one or more devices includes one or more electromagnets.

[0008] In one embodiment, one or more electromagnets include one or more coils.

[0009] In one embodiment, one or more electromagnets include one or more magnetic cores, wherein each of one or more coils is wound around a corresponding magnetic core in the one or more magnetic cores. The magnetic cores may contain ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials.

[0010] In embodiments, the magnet, magnetic core, or magnetizable material includes one or more of iron, cobalt, nickel, or rare earth metals.

[0011] In embodiments, the magnet, magnetic core, or magnetizable material comprises a samarium-cobalt alloy or a neodymium-iron-boron alloy.

[0012] In one embodiment, one or more device magnetic components include multiple device magnetic components.

[0013] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol supply device is defined with a remote end that is away from the user during use.

[0014] In one embodiment, one or more of the magnetic components of one or more devices are positioned to longitudinally overlap with the article receiving portion in the aerosol supply device.

[0015] In an embodiment, one or more device magnetic components include a plurality of device magnetic components, and each of the plurality of connector electrical contacts includes one of the plurality of device magnetic components.

[0016] In one embodiment, an electrical connector is arranged in the article receiving section.

[0017] According to one aspect, an article of article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating material; a heating device for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of article electrical contacts, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts in the plurality of article electrical contacts; and wherein one or more of the article electrical contacts include one or more article magnetic components, the one or more article magnetic components being configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol supply device configured to receive the article and to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, the force forcing the article to a position where the article electrical contact engages with a corresponding connector electrical contact of the aerosol supply device.

[0018] In any of the above embodiments, one or more magnetic components of the article comprise a magnetic material or a magnetizable material. In some embodiments, the magnetizable material includes a ferromagnetic material or a ferrimagnetic material. In some embodiments, one or more magnetic components of the article comprise a magnet. The magnetic material can be formed into a magnet.

[0019] According to one aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: an article including: an aerosol generating material and a heating device for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of article electrical contacts, the plurality of article electrical contacts including at least first and second article electrical contacts, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts in the plurality of article electrical contacts; and one or more article magnetic components; wherein the system further includes an aerosol supply device including: an article receiving portion configured to receive an article in use; an electrical connector for supplying power to the article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector including a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article, the plurality of connector electrical contacts including at least first and second connector electrical contacts; and one or more device magnetic components configured to apply a force to the one or more article magnetic components when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to a position where the first and second article electrical contacts of the article engage with the first and second connector electrical contacts of the electrical connector, respectively.

[0020] In any of the above embodiments, the plurality of product electrical contacts include a third product electrical contact, and the plurality of connector electrical contacts include a third connector electrical contact.

[0021] One or more magnetic components of the device are configured to apply a force to one or more magnetic components of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to reach positions where the first, second and third article electrical contacts of the article engage with the first, second and third connector electrical contacts of the electrical connector, respectively.

[0022] In any of the above embodiments, the magnetic components of one or more devices include one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may include one or more permanent magnets.

[0023] In some embodiments, one or more magnetic components of the device comprise a magnetic material or a magnetizable material. Magnetizable materials may include ferromagnetic or subferromagnetic materials.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, the magnetic component of one or more devices includes one or more electromagnets.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, one or more device magnetic components include multiple device magnetic components.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol supply device is defined with a remote end that is away from the user during use.

[0027] In any of the above embodiments, one or more of the magnetic components of the device are positioned at the distal end of the article receiving portion in the aerosol supply device.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, one or more of the magnetic components of one or more devices are positioned in the aerosol supply device to longitudinally overlap with the article receiving portion.

[0029] According to one aspect, an aerosol supply apparatus is provided, comprising: a product receiving portion configured to receive a product in use, the product including aerosol generating material and a heating device for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of product electrical contacts, the plurality of product electrical contacts including first and second product electrical contacts, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of product electrical contacts in the plurality of product electrical contacts; an electrical connector for supplying power to the product received by the product receiving portion, the electrical connector including a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with corresponding plurality of product electrical contacts of the product, the plurality of connector electrical contacts including at least the first and second connector electrical contacts; and one or more device magnetic components configured to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the product when the product is inserted into a product interface, the force forcing the product to a position where the first and second connector electrical contacts engage with corresponding first and second product electrical contacts of the product, respectively.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the electrical connector includes a third connector electrical contact, wherein a plurality of article electrical contacts include the third article electrical contact, and wherein one or more device magnetic components are configured to apply a force to one or more magnetic components of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to reach a position where the first, second and third connector electrical contacts engage with corresponding first, second and third article electrical contacts of the article, respectively.

[0031] In any of the above embodiments, the magnetic components of one or more devices include one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may include one or more permanent magnets.

[0032] One or more magnetic components of a device may comprise magnetic or magnetizable materials. Magnetizable materials may include ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the magnetic component of one or more devices includes one or more electromagnets.

[0034] In any of the above embodiments, one or more device magnetic components include multiple device magnetic components.

[0035] According to one aspect, an article of article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating material; a heating device for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of article electrical contacts, the plurality of article electrical contacts including first and second article electrical contacts, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts in the plurality of article electrical contacts; and one or more article magnetic components configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of the aerosol supply device configured to receive the article and to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, the force forcing the article to a position where the first and second article electrical contacts of the article respectively engage with corresponding first and second connector electrical contacts of the aerosol supply device.

[0036] In any of the above embodiments, the plurality of article electrical contacts include a third article electrical contact, and one or more article magnetic components are configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol supply device configured to receive the article and apply a force to one or more magnetic components of the article, the force forcing the article to reach positions where the first, second and third article electrical contacts of the article engage with corresponding first, second and third connector electrical contacts of the aerosol supply device, respectively.

[0037] In any of the above embodiments, the magnetic component of one or more articles includes one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may include one or more permanent magnets.

[0038] One or more magnetic components of an article may contain magnetic or magnetizable materials. Magnetizable materials may include ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials.

[0039] In any of the above embodiments, one or more magnetic components of the device and / or one or more magnetic components of the article include a magnet (e.g., a permanent magnet or an electromagnet). In any of the above embodiments, one or more magnetic components of the device and / or one or more magnetic components of the article include a magnetic material or a magnetizable material. The magnetizable material may include a ferromagnetic material or a ferrimagnetic material. Wherein one of the magnetic components of the device or the article includes a magnetizable material (e.g., a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material), the other of the magnetic components of the device or the article may include a magnet (e.g., a permanent magnet or an electromagnet) magnetically bonded to the magnetizable material.

[0040] In any of the above embodiments, the article may be formed of multiple layers. The multiple layers may form a layered structure. At least one of these layers may include a resistance heating layer, and at least one of these layers may include an aerosol generating layer. At least one of these layers may include a support configured to support the resistance heating layer. At least one of these layers may at least partially define an airflow path through the article. At least one of these layers may include an outermost layer that surrounds at least one other layer of the article (e.g., the resistance heating layer). The outermost layer may be considered a wrapping or sleeve. At least one of the multiple layers may form the body of the article. At least one such layer forming the body of the article may be considered a body layer. At least one of these layers may define an air inlet and / or an air outlet of the article, or any other feature of the article in practice.

[0041] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in sheet form.

[0042] In any of the above embodiments, the heating device includes an array of at least two heating elements.

[0043] In any of the above embodiments, one or more heating elements of the array are in contact with a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0044] In any of the above embodiments, one or more heating elements of the array are arranged in layers.

[0045] In any of the above embodiments, each of one or more heating elements includes a trace of conductive material that provides a conductive path for resistive heating of at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, each article electrical contact of the article includes an exposed area of ​​a heating element, which can be approached by a corresponding one of the plurality of connector electrical contacts.

[0047] In any of the above embodiments, each heating element extends between a pair of article electrical contacts.

[0048] In any of the above embodiments, several of the multiple heating elements extend from a common article electrical contact portion.

[0049] In any of the above embodiments, the outer surface of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to the length and the width, respectively, wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and wherein the width is greater than the depth.

[0050] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in the form of an aerosol generating layer.

[0051] In any of the above embodiments, the heating device and the aerosol-generating material form an aerosol generator. Other features, such as the article's electrical contacts, may also be part of the aerosol generator.

[0052] In one embodiment, the heating device includes a resistance heating layer. The resistance heating layer may define one or more heating elements.

[0053] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a support configured to support the resistive heating layer.

[0054] In any of the above embodiments, the support member includes a support layer.

[0055] In any of the above embodiments, the support is electrically insulated.

[0056] In any of the above embodiments, the support includes at least one of paper and card.

[0057] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0058] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in indirect contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0059] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer and the support layer define the substrate.

[0060] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a laminate comprising a resistance heating layer and a support layer.

[0061] In any of the above embodiments, the laminate includes an aerosol-generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the laminate includes an aerosol-generating layer.

[0062] In any of the above embodiments, the support layer includes a card layer.

[0063] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to the device electrical connector, and the second type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to the device electrical connector.

[0064] In any of the above embodiments, the support member defines the exposed contact area of ​​the first type of electrical contact.

[0065] In any of the above embodiments, the exposed contact area is the first exposed contact area, and the support defines the second exposed contact area of ​​the second type of electrical contact.

[0066] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is a continuous aerosol generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is a continuous aerosol generating layer.

[0067] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is a discontinuous aerosol generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is a discontinuous aerosol generating layer.

[0068] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material includes a plurality of discrete aerosol generating portions. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer includes a plurality of discrete aerosol generating portions.

[0069] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is one of a plurality of resistance heating elements.

[0070] In any of the above embodiments, one of the discrete aerosol generating portions is associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of resistance heating elements.

[0071] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer includes at least one of dots, strips, and patches.

[0072] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is a first heating element, and the resistance heating layer forms a second resistance heating element. Each resistance heating element provides a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol at a corresponding portion of the aerosol-generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is a first heating element, and the resistance heating layer forms a second resistance heating element. Each resistance heating element provides a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol at a corresponding portion of the aerosol-generating layer.

[0073] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer forms a resistance heating element array including at least a first resistance heating element and a second resistance heating element.

[0074] In any of the above embodiments, each of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact is configured such that current can be individually supplied to each resistance heating element.

[0075] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer includes a membrane or gel layer containing aerosol generating material.

[0076] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a plurality of first-type electrical contacts, wherein each heating element includes a separate first-type electrical contact.

[0077] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a plurality of second-type electrical contacts, wherein each resistance heating element includes a separate second-type electrical contact.

[0078] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a single second type of electrical contact.

[0079] In any of the above embodiments, a single second type of electrical contact is shared by each resistance heating element.

[0080] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is formed by at least one of the following methods: cutting the resistance heating layer; chemically etching the resistance heating layer; forming or pressing the resistance heating layer in a substrate; and printing the resistance heating layer.

[0081] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in the form of a foil.

[0082] According to another aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: An aerosol supply device according to any of the above aspects or embodiments; and Articles of manufacture according to any of the above aspects or embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0083] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic 3D diagram of an aerosol supply system; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an aerosol supply system containing aerosol generating materials. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the first side of the aerosol generator for the product in the image; Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the second side of the aerosol generator in the image; Figure 5 Aerosol supply systems (such as) Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of the system shown in the figure; Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A schematic partially exploded perspective view of the article, in which the aerosol generator is shown in an orientation reversed from the assembly orientation and spaced apart from other components; Figure 7 It is another aerosol generator (such as Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator shown. Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A schematic plan view of the heating element of the aerosol generator in the diagram; Figure 9 It has multiple heating elements Figure 3 A schematic plan view of the resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator in the diagram; Figure 10 It shows an aerosol generator (such as...) Figure 3 A flowchart of the method for generating aerosols in a device; Figure 11 This is an exploded 3D view of an aerosol generator in the process of formation. Figure 12 This is a schematic 3D view of the resistance heating layer of the forming aerosol generator; Figure 13 It shows an aerosol generator (such as...) Figure 3 A flowchart of the method for generating aerosols in a device; Figure 14 It shows an aerosol generator (such as...) Figure 3 A flowchart of the method for generating aerosols in a device; Figure 15 It shows an aerosol generator (such as...) Figure 3 A flowchart of the method for generating aerosols in a device; Figure 16 This is a schematic 3D view of the resistance heating layer of the forming aerosol generator; Figure 17 This is a schematic plan view of the heating element of an aerosol generator; Figure 18 This is a schematic plan view of the heating element of an aerosol generator; Figure 19 yes Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the aerosol generator for the product. Figure 20 yes Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the device connector of the aerosol supply unit in the aerosol supply system. Figure 21 yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of the aerosol generation system in the diagram; Figure 22 It shows an aerosol generator (such as...) Figure 3 A flowchart of the method for generating aerosols in a device; Figures 23 to 25 The aerosol generator in the process of forming is shown; Figure 26 , Figure 27 and Figure 28A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention and an article inserted into the aerosol supply device is shown; and Figure 29 A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device and an article received by the aerosol supply device according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0084] As used herein, the term "delivery mechanism" is intended to cover systems that deliver substances to users and includes: non-flammable aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without burning the aerosolizable materials, such as electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products; mixing systems that use combinations of aerosolizable materials to generate aerosols; and articles containing aerosolizable materials and configured for use in such non-flammable aerosol supply systems.

[0085] According to this disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is a system in which the constituent aerosol generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or its components) are non-flammable or non-ignitable in order to deliver at least one substance to a user.

[0086] In some implementations, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0087] In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vapor device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not required.

[0088] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heated non-combustible system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0089] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a mixing system that uses a combination of aerosol-generating materials to generate aerosols, one or more of which can be heated. Each of these aerosol-generating materials can be in the form of, for example, solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the mixing system includes liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. Solid aerosol-generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0090] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0091] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles in this disclosure.

[0092] In some implementations, a non-flammable aerosol supply system (such as its non-flammable aerosol supply device) may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power supply.

[0093] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0094] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material conveying component, aerosol generator, aerosol generating area, housing, packaging paper, filter, nozzle and / or aerosol modifier.

[0095] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" (which is sometimes referred to herein as an aerosolizable material) is a material that is capable of generating aerosols, for example, when heated, radiated, or otherwise functional. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, solid, liquid, or semi-solid (e.g., gel), and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0096] In some implementations, the substance to be delivered contains an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0097] Aerosol generating materials may contain one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0098] The aerosol-generating material may comprise a binder (e.g., a gelling agent) and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in this solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0099] Aerosol-generating materials may include or be in the form of aerosol-generating membranes. Aerosol-generating membranes may contain a binder (e.g., a gelling agent) and an aerosol forming agent. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or a filler may also be present. Aerosol-generating membranes may be substantially free of plant material. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0100] The aerosol-generating membrane can have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness can be in the range of about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.

[0101] Aerosol-generating membranes can be continuous. For example, the membrane may comprise or be a continuous sheet of material.

[0102] Aerosol-generating membranes can be discontinuous. For example, an aerosol-generating membrane may include one or more discrete portions or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as dots, strips, or lines, that can be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0103] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes multiple aerosol-generating membranes. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating membrane includes multiple aerosol-generating membrane regions. Such multiple aerosol-generating membranes and / or one or more aerosol-generating membrane regions may have different properties, such as different components, thicknesses, densities, at least one of active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0104] Aerosol-generating membranes can be formed by the following steps: combining an adhesive (e.g., a gelling agent) with a solvent (e.g., water), an aerosol forming agent, and one or more other components (e.g., one or more substances to be transported) to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to evaporate at least some of the solvent to form an aerosol-generating membrane.

[0105] The slurry can be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent.

[0106] The aerosol-generating material can be an "amorphous solid." In some embodiments, the amorphous solid is a "monolithic solid." The aerosol-generating material can be non-fibrous or fibrous. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material can be a dried gel. The aerosol-generating material can be a solid material in which some fluid (such as a liquid) can be retained. In some embodiments, the retained fluid can be water (such as water absorbed from the surroundings of the aerosol-generating material) or the retained fluid can be a solvent (such as when the aerosol-generating material is formed from a slurry). In some embodiments, the solvent can be water.

[0107] Aerosol forming agent materials may include one or more components capable of forming aerosols. In some embodiments, aerosol forming agent materials may include one or more of the following: glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl octanoate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of glycerol diacetate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, glyceryl tribocate, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0108] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers and / or antioxidants.

[0109] The material may be present on or within the support to form a substrate. For example, the support may be or include paper, cardboard, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, reconstituted material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy.

[0110] The aerosol supply device can receive articles containing aerosol-generating materials for heating. As used herein, "article" refers to a component that includes or contains aerosol-generating materials (which are heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating materials) in use, as well as other components optionally in use. A user can insert the article into or onto the aerosol supply device before it is heated to generate an aerosol, and the user subsequently inhales the aerosol.

[0111] An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to expose the aerosol-generating materials to thermal energy in order to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating materials to form an aerosol.

[0112] Consumables are articles comprising or composed of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are intended to be consumed by the user during use. Consumables may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transport component, an aerosol transport component, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a package, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which releases heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may include a conductor that can be heated when an electric current passes through it.

[0113] A non-flammable aerosol supply system may include modular components comprising both a reusable aerosol supply device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may include, for example, a power source such as a battery or a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other embodiments, the aerosol generating article may partially or completely comprise the aerosol generating component.

[0114] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply system 100 is shown. The aerosol supply system 100 includes an aerosol supply device 200 and an article 300 containing aerosol generating material 302 (see reference). Figure 3 ). 300 products in Figure 2 The image shows the product being removed from the aerosol supply device 200. The aerosol generator 304 of the article 300 is in... Figure 3 The first side 306 is shown in the perspective view. Figure 4 A perspective view of a portion of the second side 307 is shown in the middle.

[0115] Article 300 includes an aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 is configured to generate aerosols from aerosol generating material 302 during operation of the aerosol supply system 100, as will be described in detail below.

[0116] The aerosol supply system 100 may be elongated, extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply system 100 has a proximal end 102 and a distal end 104, with the proximal end being closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) and the distal end being furthest from the user during use.

[0117] The proximal end can also be referred to as the "mouth tip". The aerosol supply system 100 is thus defined in a proximal direction, which is close to the user during use. Furthermore, the aerosol supply system 100 is also defined in a distal direction, which is distant from the user during use. The terms "proximal" and "distal" applied to features of the system 100 will be described by referring to the relative positioning of these features with respect to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0118] Article 300 is received by aerosol supply device 200. The construction of article 300 and aerosol supply device 200 can vary. In this embodiment, aerosol supply device 200 includes a device body 202. This device has a housing 204 that encloses the components of device 200. Figure 5 As shown, the article receiving portion 206 (sometimes referred to as device chamber 206) is configured to receive an article 300 as part of the article. When the article 300 is received in the device chamber 206, the proximal end 308 of the article protrudes from the device 200. The receiver 208 defines the chamber 206. The receiver 208 includes a receiver base 210 and a receiver peripheral wall 212. The configuration of the receiver 208 can vary depending on the configuration of the article 300.

[0119] The aerosol supply device 200 may be provided with one or more user-operable control elements 224 (such as buttons or switches) for operating the aerosol supply system 100. For example, a user can activate the system 100 by pressing the control element 224. One or more user-operable control elements may be omitted. In some embodiments, the aerosol supply system 100 is operated by other user actions, such as suction initiated by the user inhaling air through the system.

[0120] The aerosol supply device 200 includes an opening 214 at its proximal end, which leads to a device chamber 206. The opening 214 is located at one end through which an article 300 can be inserted. In embodiments, the article 300 can be fully or partially inserted into the device 200. The construction of the device 200 can vary; for example, the opening may be in the longitudinal sidewall of the device 200, and / or may be closed during use by another feature of the device 200. In the construction of the invention, the article 300 defines a mouthpiece 310 at its proximal end 308. In other embodiments, the device 200 defines a mouthpiece. The user places their mouth on the mouthpiece during use.

[0121] Device 200 defines a longitudinal axis along which article 300 can extend when inserted into device 200. Opening 214 is aligned on the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis can be the axis along which article 300 is inserted into device 200. The longitudinal axis can be considered as the receiving axis of device 200. Article 300 can similarly have a longitudinal axis along which article is inserted into device, and this axis can be considered as the insertion axis.

[0122] The aerosol supply device 200 includes a power source 220. The power source 220 may be a battery, such as a rechargeable battery. The device 200 also includes control circuitry 222, which functions as a controller and includes a processor and memory.

[0123] As will be discussed in detail below, the heating system 110 is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material 302 of the article 300. The article 300 is, in some embodiments, a consumable and interchangeable with other articles 300. The heating system 110 includes an aerosol generator 304. The heating system 110 includes other components of the aerosol supply system 100, including components of the article 300 and the aerosol supply device 200, such as a power supply 220 and control circuitry 222.

[0124] Aerosol generator 304 forms part of article 300. Aerosol generator 304 includes heating device 312 configured to heat aerosol generating material 302, such as at least one of membrane and gel, to generate aerosol. Aerosol generating material may be referred to as aerosolizable material.

[0125] The heating device 312 is a resistance heating device comprising one or more heating elements. As will be described in detail below, the heating element, or each heating element, is a resistance heating element in some embodiments. In such an arrangement, the heating system 110 includes a resistance heating generator comprising components that heat the heating device 312 by a resistance heating process. In this case, current is applied directly to the resistance heating element, and the current flows in the heating element, which serves as the heating component, causing the heating element to be heated by the Joule heating effect. The resistance heating element comprises a resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable current passes through it, and the heating device 312 includes electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistive material. The presence of the resistance heating device 312 allows for a compact arrangement. Resistance heating provides an efficient construction.

[0126] When using the aerosol supply system 100, air is drawn into the air inlet 314 of the article 300, as indicated by arrow 316. The air inlet 314 is located at the distal end of the article 300. In some embodiments, the air inlet 314 may have different configurations, such as being on the side. The airflow to the air inlet 314 of the article 300 may be defined, for example, by at least one of an air path through the device 200, an air path outside the device 200, and an air path between the device 200 and the article 300. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 304 exits the device at the aerosol outlet 318, as indicated by arrow 319. In some embodiments, the aerosol outlet 318 is located in the mouthpiece of the article 300, such that the aerosol is drawn directly from the article 300 into the mouth of the user of the system 100.

[0127] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol supply system includes two main components: a control section forming a reusable portion and a consumable portion forming a replaceable or disposable portion, which may be referred to as a replaceable or disposable article or cartridge. As described herein, the aerosol supply device 200 forms the control section, and the article 300 forms the consumable portion. When using the aerosol generation system, the control section and the consumable portion can be releasably connected at an interface. The consumable portion can be removable and replaceable; for example, when the consumable portion is depleted, the control section can be recombined with a different consumable portion for reuse.

[0128] The aerosol supply system 100 shown is provided by way of example only and is highly illustrative. Different aerosol generating devices and other means may be used in exemplary implementations of the principles described herein. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, air is drawn into an air inlet in the control section, passes through an interface, and exits the consumable section.

[0129] like Figure 5 As schematically shown and described in detail below, article 300 has an article electrical contact configuration 320. In some embodiments, the electrical contact configuration 320 is formed by an aerosol generator 304. The electrical contact configuration 320 includes a heater electrical contact portion 322. The heater electrical contact portion 322 may also be referred to as a heater or an article (electrical) contact portion. The aerosol supply device 200 includes an electrical connector 230 configured to supply power (or provide an electrical connection) to the article received by the article receiving portion, for example, to a heating device 321 for heating the aerosol generating material of article 300. The electrical connector 230 includes a connector electrical contact portion 232. The connector electrical contact portion 232 may also be referred to as a connector or device contact portion. The article electrical contact configuration 320 is configured to communicate electrically with the device electrical connector 230.

[0130] The structure of article 300 can be varied. Article 300 includes a body 324. Body 324 is hollow. Body 324 defines a flow path 326 through article 300 (see reference). Figure 6 Flow path 326 extends between air inlet 314 and aerosol outlet 318. Flow path 326 is defined by an internal space within the article along which air and / or aerosol can flow. Flow path 326 is defined within body 324. The aerosol generator or each aerosol generator 304 defines flow path 326. Aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to flow path 326. Aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the internal space. In some embodiments, the internal space includes two or more chambers.

[0131] Air inlet 314 includes an opening 315. Opening 315 is formed in body 324. In some embodiments, the opening is formed in other parts of article 300, such as aerosol generator 304 or other wall features. Aerosol outlet 318 includes an outlet opening 317. Outlet opening 317 is formed in body 324. In some embodiments, outlet opening 317 is formed in other parts of article 300, such as aerosol generator 304 or other wall features.

[0132] like Figure 6 As shown, article 300 includes two aerosol generators 304 forming an aerosol generator apparatus. The number of aerosol generators 304 may vary. Each aerosol generator 304 contains aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to a flow path 326. In some embodiments, article 300 includes a single aerosol generator 304. One aerosol generator 304 will be described in detail, and these details may be applied to one or more other aerosol generators 304 in the embodiments.

[0133] The aerosol generator, or each aerosol generator 304 and the body 324, are formed in a stacked configuration. In some embodiments, other arrangements are contemplated, such as a tubular arrangement of articles. In such a tubular arrangement, the aerosol generator 304 defines a tubular structure. The tubular shape may include a circular cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, and other polygonal shapes.

[0134] In some embodiments, as shown in the figures, the article 300 has a flat structure. That is, the exterior of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and width, wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and wherein the width is greater than the depth. Other structures are contemplated.

[0135] Figure 6This is a partially exploded perspective view of article 300, in which aerosol generator 304 is shown in an orientation reversed from the assembly orientation and spaced apart from other components. Article 300 includes a first aerosol generator 302, a body 324, and a second aerosol generator. The body 324 separates the first and second aerosol generators 304. The first and second aerosol generators 304 enclose an internal space defined by the body 324, along which air and / or aerosols can flow. The aerosol generating materials 302 of the first and second aerosol generators 304 face each other and are exposed to the internal space. When assembled, the first and second aerosol generators 304 sandwich the body 324. Figure 6 In some embodiments, at least the first and second aerosol generators 304 have equal planar areas to the body. In some embodiments, one or more of the first and second aerosol generators 304 and the body 324 have a greater length and / or width. In some embodiments, one of the first and second aerosol generators 304 is replaced by a blank panel. The body 324 includes body layers. The body may include multiple body layers. The body layers may be stacked and arranged to define features of the article 300, such as an air inlet 314 and an aerosol outlet 318.

[0136] The wrapper surrounds the article 300 and forms part of the article 300. The wrapper may include a sheet. The wrapper serves as a retaining sleeve. The aerosol generator, or each aerosol generator 304, protrudes from the wrapper at its distal end. The exposed electrical contact area 323 of the heater contact portion 322 is exposed at its distal end, for example, referenced to... Figure 2 Other configurations are envisioned, for example, at least one exposed electrical contact area 323 may additionally or alternatively be defined along a smaller longitudinal face or edge of the article 300, and on the main surface of the article defined by the aerosol generator 304.

[0137] Aerosol generator 304 Figure 7 The cross-sectional view is shown schematically. The aerosol generator 304 is an implementation of the aerosol generator 304 in the above-described aerosol supply system 100.

[0138] Aerosol generator 304 includes an aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer is also referred to as an aerosolizable layer. More generally, aerosol generator 304 can be described as including a heating device (such as a resistance heating layer 340) and an aerosol generating material (such as the aerosol generating layer 330). The aerosol generating layer 330 contains aerosol generating material 302. Aerosol generator 304 includes a resistance heating layer 340. In some embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. The aerosol generating layer 330 is located on the resistance heating layer 340. The aerosol generating layer 330 is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 is in indirect contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In some embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 may include a coating. As will be described in detail below, the resistance heating layer 340 includes a plurality of resistance heating elements 342, such as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown. The resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 forms at least a portion of a conductive path between a pair of electrical contacts 322. The resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 provides a conductive path for resistively heating at least a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 to generate an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material 302 is in the form of a film or gel.

[0139] The resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. In some embodiments, the layer takes the form of at least one of a metallic layer (such as an aluminum layer) or a non-metallic material (such as graphene). The resistance heating layer 340 is in the form of a foil, such as an aluminum foil.

[0140] The aerosol generator 304 includes a support 350. In some embodiments, the support 350 comprises paper or card material. The support 350 provides structural support for the aerosol generator 304. A resistance heating layer 340 is located on the support 350. The support 350 is configured as a support layer. Figure 7 As shown, in the aerosol generator 304, the resistance heating layer 340 is sandwiched between the support member 350 and the aerosol generating layer 330.

[0141] The support 350 is electrically insulating. The resistance heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define the substrate 352. The substrate 352 supports the aerosol generation layer 330.

[0142] Article 300 may include a laminate 354 having a resistance heating layer 340 and a support layer 350. In some embodiments, the laminate 354 includes an aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer 330 may be formed as a continuous structure or may be formed of discrete portions. Discrete portions may include one or more of dots, strips, spirals, or other shapes.

[0143] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 includes an aerosol generating membrane. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 includes multiple aerosol generating membranes. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating membrane includes multiple aerosol generating membrane regions. Such multiple aerosol generating membranes and / or multiple aerosol generating membrane regions may have different characteristics, such as different compositions, thicknesses, densities, active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol forming agent materials, and optionally at least one of one or more other functional materials.

[0144] One or more of the aerosol generating layer 330, the resistance heating layer 340, and the support layer 350 may include additional layers. For example, the support layer 350 may include a backing layer or an intermediate layer. In some embodiments, the support layer 350 is omitted.

[0145] Figure 8 One of a plurality of resistance heating elements 342 is shown. The resistance heating layer 340 includes a plurality of resistance heating elements 342. In some embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 includes a single resistance heating element 342.

[0146] like Figure 9 As shown, the multiple heating elements 342 can be formed as an array 344. Other configurations are conceivable.

[0147] The resistance heating element 342 includes a resistance heating path. The resistance heating path is formed by a conductive path. The resistance heating path is not straight. The resistance heating path is meandering. The construction of the resistance heating path can vary. The resistance of the heating element 342 can depend on the characteristics of the resistance heating path in the conductive layer, such as the path's length, width, thickness, and arrangement.

[0148] A resistance heating element 342 extends between a first type of electrical contact 360 and a second type of electrical contact 365. The first type of electrical contact 360 is configured to provide a positive contact, and the second type of electrical contact 365 is configured to provide a negative contact. Current flows through this path between the first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365. The contact arrangement can be reversed. The first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365 are heater electrical contacts 322. The first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365 form at least a portion of the article electrical contact configuration 320.

[0149] The meandering or tortuous nature of the path of the resistance heating element 342 causes the resistance of the path to increase compared to a straight path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact.

[0150] The resistance heating layer 340 may include a first type of electrical rail 361 extending from the resistance heating element 342. The first type of electrical rail 361 includes a first type of electrical contact 360. The first type of electrical contact 360 is configured to electrically connect with the device electrical connector 230. The first type of electrical contact 360 includes a first type of exposed contact region 362. The first type of exposed contact region 362 is exposed on the article for direct connection with the device electrical connector 230.

[0151] The resistance heating layer 340 may include a second type of electrical rail 366 extending from the resistance heating element 342. The second type of electrical rail 366 includes a second type of electrical contact 365. The second type of electrical contact 365 is configured to electrically connect with the device electrical connector 230. The second type of electrical contact 365 includes a second type of exposed contact region 367. The second type of exposed contact region 367 is exposed on the article 300 for direct connection with the device electrical connector 230.

[0152] As will be discussed in detail below, in some embodiments, the conductive path of the resistance heating element 342 is created by defining at least one electrically insulating barrier 346 in the resistance heating layer 340. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating barrier 346 is formed by cutting out electrically insulating barrier limiting portions (i.e., electrically insulating portions) such as gaps, channels, or grooves in a sheet formed of conductive material, thereby forming the resistance heating layer 340. In some embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 is pre-formed to define a resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 and then applied to a support 350. In some embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 is applied to the support 350, and the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 is then defined in the resistance heating layer 340. The resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 defining the resistance heating layer 340 may be a printed heater. The insulating barrier may be an air gap. In some embodiments, the insulating barrier is a filler gap, for example, filled with an insulating material. The barrier defines an obstacle to electrical conduction across it.

[0153] The resistance heating element defining the resistance heating layer 340, or each resistance heating element 342, can be formed by a cutting action. Cutting may include die-cutting. The resistance heating element may be formed solely by an action applied to the resistance heating layer. In some embodiments, the resistance heating element may be formed by an action applied to both the resistance heating layer and the support layer, such as an action of cutting the resistance heating layer and the support layer.

[0154] At least one electrical insulation barrier 346 defines a first type of electrical rail 361 and a second type of electrical rail 366.

[0155] In some embodiments, the width of the rails of the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 is 0.5 mm to 1 mm (two example prototypes have widths of 0.93 mm and 0.72 mm, respectively), and the gap between the rails is less than about 0.25 mm (two identical example prototypes have gaps of 0.2 mm and 0.05 mm, respectively). The resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 can have an overall size on the order of 10 mm x 10 mm. In other exemplary embodiments, other sizes are possible. By forming these sizes of resistance heating elements or each resistance heating element 342 from aluminum foil with a thickness of 0.006 mm and a resistivity between 2 µOhmcm and 6 µOhmcm, the resistance of this path is calculated to be approximately 1 Ohm. In one exemplary embodiment, the resistance is measured to be between 0.83 Ohm and 1.31 Ohm.

[0156] like Figure 9 As shown, the resistance heating layer 340 can be formed as a plurality of resistance heating elements, typically indicated by reference numerals 342a, 342b, 342c, 342d, and 342e. Each of the resistance heating elements 342a-342e extends from a corresponding one of the first type of electrical contacts (typically indicated by reference numerals 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d, and 360e) to a single second type of electrical contact 365. The number of electrical contacts can vary. Thus, each resistance heating element 342a-342e extends between discrete first type of electrical contacts and a common second type of electrical contact.

[0157] Each of the resistance heating elements 342a-342e provides a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 to generate an aerosol at a corresponding portion of the aerosol generator 304.

[0158] The separate first-type electrical contacts 360a-360e allow current to be individually supplied to each of the multiple resistance heating elements 342a-342e. Heating of different regions of the aerosol generation layer 330 is controlled. For example, the aerosol generator may be provided with five aerosol generation regions. The resistance heating layer 340 allows each of these regions to be individually activated. Thus, for example, five aerosols can be generated from a single consumable containing a single aerosol generator 304, and ten aerosols can be generated from a single consumable containing two aerosol generators 304.

[0159] In the exemplary resistance heating layer 340, a plurality of first-type electrical contacts 360a-360e, such as positive electrical connections, are provided, and a single second-type electrical contact 365, such as a negative electrical connection, is provided. This is not necessary for all implementations. For example, multiple second-type electrical contacts may be provided. In some embodiments, each resistance heating element 342a-342e includes a corresponding electrical contact in the first-type electrical contacts 360 and a corresponding electrical contact in the second-type electrical contacts 365.

[0160] exist Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment of the resistance heating layer 340, first-type electrical contacts 360a-360e are arranged on the first edge 363 of the resistance heating layer 340, and second-type electrical contacts 365 are arranged on the second edge 368 of the resistance heating layer 340. This allows for convenient electrical connection, but of course, many other configurations are possible, some of which will be discussed further below.

[0161] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a portion of a method or algorithm for forming an aerosol generator 304 according to an exemplary embodiment, the method being generally indicated by reference numeral 400.

[0162] Method or algorithm 400 begins at operation 402, wherein a resistance heating layer is formed as one or more heating elements (e.g., multiple heating elements), each resistance heating element extending from a first type of electrical contact to a second type of electrical contact. In use, the heating element or each heating element can be used to provide a conductive path for resistance heating of a portion of the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The formation of the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element can be performed before or after applying the resistance heating layer to a support (where a support is present). The resistance heating layer can be adhered to the support, or mounted or formed on the support in different configurations.

[0163] At operation 404, the formed resistance heating layer is placed in contact with the aerosol generation layer, wherein the aerosol generation layer contains aerosol generating material. Algorithm 400 can be used to produce the aforementioned aerosol generator 304.

[0164] Figure 11 An aerosol generator 304 formed according to one embodiment is shown. Aerosol generating material 302 is formed on the resistance heating layer 340 by deposition (e.g., by spraying, coating, dispensing, or some other method). In an exemplary embodiment of operation 404, as indicated by arrow 406, an aerosol generating layer 330 is applied to the resistance heating layer 340.

[0165] Figure 12A resistance heating layer 340 formed according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The resistance heating layer 340 is being cut using a laser cutter 408. The cutting of the resistance heating layer 340 can be used to form the path of the heating element described herein. The use of a laser cutter 408 (or some other cutting process) is not the only method available for producing the resistance heating layer 340 described herein. Some exemplary methods will be described below.

[0166] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a portion of a method or algorithm for forming an aerosol generator 304 (generally indicated by reference numeral 410). The method or algorithm 410 begins with operation 412, in which a resistance heating layer is provided. In operation 414, one or more resistance heating elements are formed in the resistance heating layer by chemical etching. Operations 412 and 414 are exemplary implementations of operation 402 of the method 400 described above. An aerosol-generating material is then applied to the resistance heating layer, thereby achieving operation 404 described above.

[0167] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating a portion of a method or algorithm (generally indicated by reference numeral 418) for forming an aerosol generator 304. The method or algorithm 418 begins with operation 420, in which one or more heating elements are at least partially formed by printing a resistance heating layer. Thus, operation 420 is an exemplary implementation of operation 402 of the algorithm 400 described above. An aerosol-generating material is then applied to the resistance heating layer, thereby achieving operation 404.

[0168] The cutting, etching, and printing methods described above are provided as examples; other additional or alternative methods are also possible. For example, a so-called "hot foiling" method can be used, in which the heating element is made of a resistance heating layer and then assembled / bonded to a support. Other techniques, such as die-cutting, can also be used. Furthermore, two or more techniques can be combined (e.g., the conductivity of the connection traces can be increased by adding more conductive material, such as additional foil, printing material, etc.). Those skilled in the art will appreciate many other techniques or combinations of techniques that can be used in the implementation of the principles described herein.

[0169] Figure 15This is a flowchart illustrating an operational method or algorithm (generally indicated by reference numeral 424) according to an exemplary embodiment. The method or algorithm 424 can be implemented, for example, using any aerosol generator described herein. In the instance of operation 426, when a command to initiate heating is received, the method or algorithm 424 begins. In response to the command to initiate heating, it is determined (in operation 428) whether a heating element is available. As described above, multiple heating elements may be provided. Operation 428 may include determining which heating elements have been used and / or the corresponding available aerosol generating material has been depleted.

[0170] If a heating element is available, the algorithm moves to operation 430, where the available heating element is used. As mentioned above, these heating elements can be individually controllable, for example, by supplying power to individual heating elements. After operation 430 completes, the algorithm terminates at operation 432. If, in operation 428, it is determined that no heating element is available, for example because all heating elements have been used, then the algorithm terminates at operation 432. This may mean that the consumable components used to implement algorithm 424 need to be replaced.

[0171] Figure 16 A resistance heating layer 340 formed according to an embodiment is shown. The resistance heating layer 340 is being cut using a laser cutter 408, but other methods, such as chemical etching or printing, can also be used, as described above. The cutting of the conductive layer 340 forms the heating element described herein.

[0172] exist Figure 16 In this embodiment, the cutting path is a linear path extending along the length of the conductive layer 120.

[0173] Figure 17 Another embodiment of the resistance heating layer 340 is shown. The resistance heating layer 340 can be formed using the laser cutting machine 408 described above or similar devices or other methods. The resistance heating layer 340 includes a plurality of resistance heating elements 342, each of which is a linear heating element and includes a conduction path extending along the length of the resistance heating layer 340. Each resistance heating element 342 extends from one of the first type of electrical contacts 360 (e.g., a positive electrical connection) to one of the second type of electrical contacts 365 (e.g., a negative electrical contact). In this embodiment, the two types of electrical contacts are located at the same end of the resistance heating layer 340 and are positioned close to each other. In this arrangement, there is no shared second type of electrical contact as in some other embodiments; instead, each heating element has independent first and second type electrical contacts.

[0174] Figure 18Another embodiment of the resistance heating layer 340 is shown. The resistance heating layer 340 can be formed using the laser cutting machine 408 described above or similar devices or other methods. The resistance heating layer 340 includes a plurality of heating elements 342, each of which is a linear heating element comprising a conductive path extending along the length of the resistance heating layer 340. Each resistance heating element 342 extends from one of a first type of electrical contact 360 (e.g., a positive electrical connection) to a second type of electrical contact 365 (e.g., a negative electrical contact). In such an embodiment, different types of electrical connections are provided at opposite ends of the resistance heating layer 340, and a common second type of electrical contact is provided. Although a linear path is provided, resistance can be increased by providing a zigzag path (used as a tortuous path). It should be noted that the path in any other embodiment described herein can also be zigzag.

[0175] Figure 19 The distal end of article 300 is shown. As shown, body 324 includes a plurality of body layers 325. Body layers 325 are arranged in a stack of body layers 325. Body layers 325 form a laminate. In some embodiments, body layers 325 are card layers. Other suitable materials may be used. Body layers 325 are configured to define features of article 300. In some embodiments, at least one body layer includes a gap defining an air inlet 315. This gap defines an opening 314.

[0176] The aerosol generator 304 includes a resistance heating layer 340. The resistance heating layer 340 includes resistance heating elements 342, a first type of electrical contact 360, and a single second type of electrical contact 365. The first type of electrical contact provides, for example, a positive electrical connection to each of the plurality of heating elements 342, and the single second type of electrical contact provides, for example, a common negative electrical connection to the plurality of heating elements 342. The first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365 (i.e., heater contact 322) together form at least a portion of the article electrical contact configuration 320 of the aerosol generator 304.

[0177] The resistance heating element 342 is located on the inner side of the resistance heating layer 340. The inner side defines the first side 306 of the aerosol generator 304, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown. The heater contacts 322 are located on the second side 307 of the resistance heating layer 340. The second side 307 defines the outer side of the aerosol generator 304. The heater contacts 322 are exposed so that they can contact the device electrical connector 230. The heater contacts 322 are located on the side of the resistance heating layer 340 opposite to the resistance heating element 342. Other configurations are conceivable.

[0178] The support layer 350 is located between the inner portion of the resistance heating layer 340 and the outer portion of the resistance heating layer 340.

[0179] A folded portion 370 is formed in the resistance heating layer 340. The folded portion 370 defines the heater contact portion 322. Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 19 The fold 370 shown extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 304. The fold 370 defines a flap 372. A heater contact portion 322 is located on the flap 372. The flap defines a contact panel. The remainder of the blank defines a main panel.

[0180] In embodiments with support layer 350, support layer 350 is folded in some embodiments. Substrate 352 is folded at fold 370. In some embodiments, support layer 350 terminates at fold 370. In some embodiments, fold 370 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of aerosol generator 304.

[0181] The folded portion of the resistance heating layer 340 is secured in the folded position. In some embodiments, this folded portion is adhered, for example, by adhesive. Other securing mechanisms are contemplated.

[0182] Fold portion 370 defines a first type of exposed contact area 362. Fold portion 370 defines a second type of exposed contact area 367. Electrical rails 361 and 366 are electrically connected across fold portion 370. Heater contacts 322 of the first type of electrical rail 361 and the second type of electrical rail 366 are defined on a second side of the resistance heating layer 340. Some portions of the first type of electrical rail 361 and the second type of electrical rail 366 extend on a first side of the resistance heating layer 340. In some embodiments, the resistance heating element extends from fold portion 370. Other configurations are contemplated.

[0183] Device 200 includes a plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 of electrical connector 230. The configuration of device connector 230 depends on the configuration of heater contacts 322 of aerosol generator 304. In, for example... Figure 19 In the embodiment of the aerosol generator shown, the aerosol generator 300 includes a plurality of heater contacts 322, which include a plurality of first-type heater contacts 360 and a second-type heater contact 365. The article 300 includes another set of heater contacts 322 on the opposite side of the article 300, corresponding to the second aerosol generator 304.

[0184] Figure 20 A device connector 230 of an aerosol supply device 200 used in some embodiments is shown. The connector 230 has a separate connector electrical contact 232 for connection with the heater contact 322.

[0185] Figure 21An aerosol supply system 100 is schematically shown. System 100 includes an article 300 and an aerosol supply device 200, both shown in block diagrams. Device 200 includes a first connector electrical contact 230a and a second connector electrical contact 230b.

[0186] When the article 300 is inserted into the aerosol supply device 200, connectors 230a and 230b enable the aerosol supply device 200 to provide regulated or controlled voltage and / or current to the respective first-type heater contacts 360 and second-type heater contacts 365 of the aerosol generator 304. The aerosol supply device 200 may include connector devices configured to supply power to the connector electrical contacts 230a and 230b. The aerosol supply device 200 may operate, for example, as described above.

[0187] Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating a method or algorithm (generally indicated by reference numeral 440) for forming an aerosol generator 304 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0188] Method or algorithm 440 begins with operation 442, in which a resistance heating layer is formed in at least one resistance heating element, which, or each heating element, provides a conductive path for resistance heating at least a portion of an aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol. Exemplary heating elements that may be formed in operation 442 are described elsewhere in this document.

[0189] In operation 442, an aerosol-generating material is applied to and / or formed on the resistance heating layer.

[0190] Operations 442 and 444 of method or algorithm 440 are similar to (and may be the same as) operations 402 and 404 of method or algorithm 400 described above.

[0191] In operation 446, at least one type-1 heater electrical contact is provided on the resistance heating layer. The forming method can be any of the methods described above. In operation 448, at least one type-2 heater electrical contact is provided on the resistance heating layer. The forming method can be any of the methods described above.

[0192] In some embodiments, the first and second type of heater electrical contacts are formed along or near a single edge of the resistance heating layer. In some embodiments, the first and second type of heater electrical contacts are formed along or near different edges of the resistance heating layer.

[0193] In some embodiments, a first type of heater electrical contact (e.g., a positive electrode connection) is provided along a first edge of the resistance heating layer. In some embodiments, a second type of heater electrical contact (e.g., a negative electrode connection) is provided along a second edge of the resistance heating layer. Operations 446 and 448 can be performed in different orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, operations 446 and 448 can be performed together with operation 442.

[0194] In operation 450, the resistance heating layer is folded. In some embodiments, the support layer is folded together with the resistance heating layer. In some embodiments, the resistance heating layer is folded such that the electrical contacts of the first and second type heaters are provided adjacent to each other, as will be discussed in detail below.

[0195] Figures 23 to 25 An embodiment of the aerosol generator 304 formed according to algorithm 440 is shown.

[0196] Figure 23 Another embodiment of the aerosol generator 304 under formation is shown. The resistance heating layer 340 is cut using a laser cutter 408. A pre-folded structure defines a blank for forming the aerosol generator 304. In some embodiments, the blank defines a fold line along which the aerosol generator is folded during its formation. The blank for the aerosol generator 304 includes the resistance heating layer 340 and a support layer 350. The resistance heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define a panel defined by the fold line.

[0197] like Figure 23 As shown, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a plurality of heating elements 192, but the number may vary and may be a single element. A plurality of first-type heater electrical contacts 360 (e.g., positive contacts) are provided along a first edge of the conductive layer (one heater electrical contact is shown for each heating element). A single second-type heater electrical contact 365 is provided along a second edge of the resistance heating layer 340. In some embodiments, the heater electrical contacts are spaced apart from the edges. As discussed above, each of the plurality of heating elements extends from the first-type heater electrical contact to the second-type heater electrical contact.

[0198] The path for forming heating elements or each heating element 342 is created by cutting the resistance heating layer 340 using a laser cutting machine 408. As discussed above, laser forming or some other cutting process is not the only method for forming the aforementioned resistance heating layer 340. Some exemplary alternative methods include chemical etching and printing.

[0199] like Figure 24 As shown, the aerosol generation layer 200 is disposed on the resistance heating layer 340. Then the blank is folded, as... Figure 24As indicated by the arrow in the diagram. In this embodiment, the folded portion is formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generator 304. Two folded portions are formed. The first panel 375 is defined to include a heating element 342. The second panel 376 is formed to include a plurality of first-type electrical contacts 360. The third panel 377 is formed to include second-type electrical contacts 365. The aerosol generating layer 330 is located on the first panel 375. Figure 25 The folded aerosol generator 304 is shown.

[0200] When inserting the article 300 into the article receiving portion of the device 200, it is important to ensure that the article 300 is correctly positioned such that the article electrical contacts (e.g., article electrical contacts 322, 360, 365 (interchangeably referred to as heater electrical contacts)) are positioned to engage with the corresponding connector electrical contacts (e.g., connector electrical contacts 232, 230a, 230b) of the device 200. For example, it may be desirable for each article electrical contact to engage the corresponding connector electrical contact in a consistent and repeatable manner. This can be difficult to achieve, especially considering that the article 300 can be repeatedly inserted into the receiving portion of the device 200, and various different articles can be used sequentially after each article is exhausted. In particular, this may not be easy to achieve in arrangements where the articles include a large number of article electrical contacts (e.g., more than two article electrical contacts), as the size, spacing, and arrangement of the article electrical contacts can increasingly make alignment more difficult.

[0201] To address this problem, the applicant has recognized that magnetic interaction can be used to repeatedly bring the article 300 into proper engagement with the receiving portion 206 and electrical connector 230 of the device 200 without the need for moving mechanical parts. An embodiment of the magnetically aligned aerosol supply system 100 is described in... Figure 26 As shown in the figure, Figure 26 A schematic diagram of the aerosol supply device 200 and the product 300 is shown. (As shown) Figure 26 As shown, the article 300 includes one or more article magnetic components 390, and the aerosol supply device 200 includes one or more device magnetic components 290 configured to apply a force to the article 300 when it is inserted into the article receiving portion 206, the force forcing the article 300 to a position where a plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 of the electrical connector 230 engage with corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts 322 of the article. Figure 26As shown, the plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 include a first connector electrical contact 233, a second connector electrical contact 234, and a third connector electrical contact 235, as well as other connector electrical contacts not separately referenced in the figures. Similarly, the plurality of article electrical contacts include a first article electrical contact 323, a second article electrical contact 324, and a third article electrical contact 325, as well as other article electrical contacts not separately referenced in the figures. One or more article and device magnetic components 290, 390 can apply force when article 300 approaches aerosol supply device 200, pulling article 300 into article receiving portion 206. In the arrangement where article 300 is inserted into article receiving portion 206 of device 200 in the distal direction, for example Figure 26 As shown, one or more magnetic components 290 of the device can apply a force to the article 300, for example, by applying a force to one or more magnetic components 390 of the article, which forces the article 300 in a distal direction such that the article electrical contact 320 is driven to a position engaging (e.g., contacting) with the corresponding connector electrical contact 232. This ensures that the corresponding article electrical contact 322 of the article 300 and the electrical connector 230 of the aerosol supply device 200 are properly engaged without requiring the user to apply a large force. This also ensures that these electrical contacts 232, 322 remain engaged with each other during use and when the article 300 is received in the article receiving portion 206, even if the user moves the aerosol generating device 200.

[0202] It should be noted that, Although the above arrangement is in multiple connector electrical contacts The discussion focuses on cases where 232 includes first, second, and third connector electrical contacts 233, 234, and 235, and multiple article electrical contacts 322 include first, second, and third article electrical contacts 323, 324, and 325. However, these techniques can also be applied to methods where multiple connector electrical contacts 232 include first and second connector electrical contacts 233 and 234, and multiple article electrical contacts 322 include first and second article electrical contacts 323 and 324, without providing third connector electrical contacts 235 and third article electrical contacts 325. Similarly, the discussed techniques can also be applied to arrangements including at least 5, for example, at least 7, for example, at least 10, for example, at least 15 connector electrical contacts and corresponding at least 5, for example, at least 7, for example, at least 10, for example, at least 15 article electrical contacts, wherein (a relatively large number) of individual article electrical contacts can be aligned with their respective corresponding connector electrical contacts by magnetic interaction between the device and the article.

[0203] In particular, such as Figure 27As shown, when article 300 is inserted into article receiving portion 206, article 300 may end up in a position where connector electrical contacts 232 and article electrical contacts 322 are not properly aligned, thus failing to achieve the necessary engagement to selectively power each (potentially numerous) different heating element of the article's aerosol generator. In such a position, some connector electrical contacts 232 may engage multiple article electrical contacts 322, which could result in an electrical short circuit or prevent effective power supply to article 300 through multiple connector electrical contacts 232.

[0204] However, one or more device magnetic components 290 can advantageously apply a force to one or more article magnetic components 390, which will cause the article 300 to... Figure 27 The position shown is driven to Figure 28 As shown, in this position, the connector electrical contact 232 engages the article electrical contact 322 in the correct configuration. Especially in arrangements where the article 300 has such a large number of article electrical contacts 322, such as first article electrical contacts 323, second article electrical contacts 324, and third article electrical contacts 325, the user may find it difficult to consistently position the article 300 correctly, leading to undesirable consequences. The techniques discussed herein enable repeatable correct positioning without the need for moving parts.

[0205] One or more magnetic components 290 may be arranged at the distal end of the article receiving portion 206, i.e., offset from the article receiving portion 206 in the distal direction. This allows the one or more magnetic components 290 to apply force to the article 300 to drive the article 300 in the distal direction until it is fully inserted into the point in the article receiving portion 206.

[0206] Additionally or alternatively, one or more device magnetic components 290 may be arranged at a position that longitudinally overlaps with the article receiving portion 206. In other words, the one or more device magnetic components 290 are arranged near the article receiving portion 206 and do not offset from the article receiving portion 206 along the longitudinal axis. This allows the device magnetic components 290 to apply force to the article 300 to drive the article 300 in a direction angular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 200 (e.g., angular to a proximal or distal direction). This force can help drive one or more article electrical contacts 322 arranged along the side of the article 300 (i.e., not arranged on the longitudinal end of the article) to engage with corresponding connector electrical contacts 232. In embodiments where the article is flexible, this ensures that multiple article electrical contacts 322 distributed along the length of the article 300 (which may be distributed on one or more sides of the article 300, e.g.) Figure 28 , Figure 29Each of the components shown in Figure 30 can be continuously forced to engage with the corresponding connector electrical contact 232.

[0207] In embodiments, one or more article magnetic components 390 and / or one or more device magnetic components 290 may include one or more magnets containing magnetic material, such as one or more permanent magnets. This can have the advantage that the magnetic components can generate a consistent magnetic field without being powered by a power source such as a battery in the device. The magnetic material may include one or more of iron, cobalt, nickel, or rare earth metals. For example, the magnetic material may include ferrite materials, samarium cobalt alloys, or neodymium iron boron alloys.

[0208] In one embodiment, one or more article magnetic components 390 and / or one or more device magnetic components 290 may include one or more electromagnets configured to generate a magnetic field when an electric current passes through them. This can have the advantage that they can be controlled by a controller (e.g., a controller for the device, such as control circuitry 220). The controller may be configured to activate one or more electromagnets of the aerosol supply device 200 in response to the detection of article insertion by an article detection sensor, or additionally or alternatively in response to a predetermined manipulation by a user of one or more control elements of the aerosol supply device 200. The one or more electromagnets may include coils wound around a magnetic core comprising a magnetizable material (e.g., a ferromagnetic material).

[0209] In one embodiment, one or more device magnetic components 290 include one or more permanent magnets and / or one or more electromagnets, while one or more article magnetic components 390 include one or more magnetic components containing magnetizable material, which are subjected to forces from the magnetic fields of the one or more device magnetic components, but do not necessarily generate a magnetic field themselves. Similarly, one or more article magnetic components 390 may include one or more permanent magnets and / or one or more electromagnets, while one or more device magnetic components 290 include one or more magnetic components containing magnetizable material. It should be understood that such a combination of components can still facilitate alignment, such that the connector electrical contact 232 engages with a corresponding article electrical contact among a plurality of article electrical contacts.

[0210] like Figure 29As shown, in some embodiments, one or more connector electrical contacts 232 may include one or more device magnetic components 290. Similarly, one or more article electrical contacts 322 may include one or more article magnetic components 390. This ensures that a force is applied directly between one or more connector electrical contacts 232 and one or more article electrical contacts 322, driving them to engage. For example, one of the connector electrical contacts 232 and / or the article electrical contacts 322 may be both magnetic and conductive. In other arrangements, the device magnetic component 290 may be disposed within the connector electrical contact 232, and similarly, the article magnetic component 390 may be disposed within the article electrical contact 322.

[0211] In such Figure 6 In the arrangement shown, article 300 includes a plurality of resistance heating elements, generally indicated by reference numerals 342a, 342b, 242c, 342d, and 342e (each extending from a corresponding first-class article electrical contact (generally indicated by reference numerals 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d, and 360e) to a single second-class article electrical contact 365). It is important to ensure that all the numerous article electrical contacts properly engage with the corresponding numerous connector electrical contacts. For example, an article may include three or more article electrical contacts, including a first article electrical contact, a second article electrical contact, and a third article electrical contact. An article may include more article electrical contacts, such as four or more, five or more, eight or more, ten or more, or fifteen or more.

[0212] Reliable alignment between each connector electrical contact 232 and its corresponding article electrical contact 322 helps ensure that the system 100 operates as intended. For example, it is important that the first connector electrical contact 232 engages with the first article electrical contact 323 so that when the first article electrical contact 323 is powered, electrical components connected to it (e.g., heating elements) are powered. This prevents unintended operation of other electrical components within the article 300 (e.g., heating elements). Conversely, misalignment between the connector electrical contact 232 and the article electrical contact 323 may result in no electrical connection being established, or an improper electrical connection being established, such as the first connector electrical contact 233 engaging with the third article electrical contact 325. Such misalignment can lead to improper use and / or damage to the system 100.

[0213] It should be understood that one or more article electrical contacts 322 do not necessarily have to be electrically connected to the heating element, and in other embodiments, one or more article electrical contacts 322 may be connected to another electrical component of article 300.

[0214] In an arrangement having such a large number of electrical contacts 322, for example Figures 26 to 29 The arrangement shown, in which article 300 includes first, second, and third article electrical contacts (or more), and / or device 200 includes first, second, and third connector electrical contacts (or more), may have limited degrees of freedom in the position where each article electrical contact 322 engages with a connector electrical contact 232. Therefore, precise and repeatable retention of article 300 by article receiving portion 206 may be particularly important, and the applicant has recognized that the use of one or more article magnetic components 390 and one or more device magnetic components 290 provides a particularly suitable solution for applying the force required to retain the article electrical contacts 322 engaged with the device electrical contacts 232. In such an arrangement, the use of multiple device magnetic components 290 and multiple article magnetic components 390 can advantageously enable the application of force to article 300 in different directions, particularly when arranged in different longitudinal positions relative to article receiving portion 206 as described above. This can drive the article electrical contacts 322 distributed along article 300 to engage with connector electrical contacts 232 (e.g., distributed along article receiving portion 206).

[0215] In the above embodiments, the heating device, which includes one or more heating elements, is part of the article (e.g., its aerosol generator).

[0216] In some embodiments of the different arrangements of the aerosol generator and article described above, the aerosol generating material is formed in a different configuration than that of an aerosol generating layer. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in the form of an aerosol generating section. The aerosol generating section typically comprises a solid material. Such a solid material may be shredded tobacco. For example, the aerosol generating material arranged as an aerosol generating section may include multiple individual aerosol generating material pieces. The aerosol generating material may be a single tobacco material piece. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material includes multiple strips, beads, or pellets. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating section is a material plug.

[0217] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating section includes a bulk material. The aerosol generating material is non-liquid. In this embodiment, the bulk material includes a rod of aerosol generating material, such as a tobacco rod. For example, the bulk material may include shredded tobacco material. The bulk material may be formed as a rod. In some embodiments, the bulk material includes cut tobacco fragments formed as a rod. The aerosol generating material may include tobacco material. The aerosol generating material may include extruded tobacco. The aerosol generating material may include reconstituted tobacco.

[0218] Aerosol-generating materials that form solid materials may include nicotine. Aerosol-generating materials may include tobacco, be composed of tobacco, or be substantially composed of tobacco. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain tobacco.

[0219] In any of the above embodiments, heating of the article provides a relatively constant release of volatile compounds into the inhalable medium. In the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating section is a material plug. The article may include a mouthpiece portion. A tubular element may be located between the aerosol-generating material and the mouthpiece portion. The article may include a ventilated area in the mouthpiece section. The mouthpiece section may be defined as a mouthpiece positioned between the user's lips.

[0220] In any of the embodiments of the above-described article, the resistance heating element, or each resistance heating element, is configured to substantially heat the entire aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating section is at least substantially cylindrical. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating section is at least partially enclosed by the resistance heating layer. In some embodiments, the resistance heating element extends within the aerosol-generating section. The resistance heating element may extend around the aerosol-generating section. In some embodiments, the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol-generating section. In some arrangements, at least a portion of the flow path through the article passes through the aerosol-generating section. The aerosol-generating section may define a portion of an air path. In some embodiments, first-type electrical contacts and second-type electrical contacts are exposed from the aerosol-generating section.

[0221] Aerosol-generating materials may comprise tobacco materials including tobacco components as described herein. In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco component may contain paper-reconstituted tobacco. The tobacco component may also comprise tobacco leaves, extruded tobacco, and / or cast tobacco. The tobacco material may be provided in the form of chopped tobacco. Chopped tobacco may be formed from mixtures of tobacco materials, such as one or more mixtures of paper-reconstituted tobacco, tobacco leaves, extruded tobacco, and cast tobacco. In some embodiments, the tobacco material comprises paper-reconstituted tobacco or a mixture of paper-reconstituted tobacco and tobacco leaves. In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco material may comprise a filler component. The filler component is typically a non-tobacco component, i.e., a component that does not include ingredients derived from tobacco. The filler component may be a non-tobacco fiber, such as wood fiber, pulp, or wheat fiber. The filler component may also be an inorganic material, such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, or magnesium carbonate. The filler component may also be a non-tobacco casting material or a non-tobacco extrusion material. The filler component may be present in an amount of 0 to 20% by weight of the tobacco material, or in an amount of 1% to 10% by weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the filler component is absent. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco material includes an aerosol-forming agent material. In this context, an "aerosol-forming agent material" is an agent that promotes aerosol generation. Aerosol-forming agent materials can promote aerosol generation by promoting the initial evaporation and / or condensation of gases into inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosols. In some embodiments, aerosol-forming agent materials can improve flavor delivery from the aerosol-generating material. Generally, any suitable aerosol-forming agent material or agent may be included in the aerosol-generating material of the present invention, including those described herein.

[0222] Paper-based reconstituted tobacco refers to tobacco material formed by: extracting tobacco raw materials with a solvent to provide an extract containing soluble substances and a residue containing fibrous material; then, by depositing the extract onto the fibrous material, recombinating the extract (usually after concentration and optionally after further processing) with the fibrous material from the residue (usually after refining the fibrous material and optionally adding a portion of non-tobacco fibers). The recombination method is similar to the papermaking process.

[0223] The various embodiments described herein are provided only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided merely as representative examples of implementations and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, 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 the equivalents of the claims, and 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, various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or substantially consist of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc., or suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device, comprising: The article receiving section is configured to receive articles in use, the articles including aerosol generating material and a heating device, the heating device including one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material; as well as An electrical connector for supplying power to the article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector including a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article. Wherein, one or more of the connector electrical contacts each include one or more device magnetic components, the one or more device magnetic components being configured to apply a force to the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to reach a position where the plurality of connector electrical contacts engage with corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more devices include one or more magnets.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 2, wherein, The one or more magnets include one or more permanent magnets.

4. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more devices comprise magnetic or magnetizable materials.

5. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more devices include one or more electromagnets.

6. The aerosol supply device according to claim 5, wherein, The one or more electromagnets include one or more coils and one or more magnetic cores, wherein each of the one or more coils is wound around a corresponding magnetic core of the one or more magnetic cores.

7. The aerosol supply device according to claim 4, wherein, The magnetic or magnetizable material includes one or more of iron, cobalt, nickel, or rare earth metals.

8. The aerosol supply device according to claim 7, wherein, The magnetic material includes samarium cobalt alloy or neodymium iron boron alloy.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more devices include multiple magnetic components.

10. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol supply device is defined with a remote end that is away from the user during use.

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 10, wherein, One or more of the magnetic components of the one or more devices are positioned to longitudinally overlap with the article receiving portion in the aerosol supply device.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The electrical connector is arranged in the product receiving section.

13. An article for use in an aerosol supply device, comprising: Aerosol generating materials; A heating device for heating the aerosol-generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of product electrical contacts, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of product electrical contacts in the plurality of product electrical contacts; and Wherein, one or more of the plurality of product electrical contacts include one or more product magnetic components, the one or more product magnetic components being configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol supply device configured to receive the product, and to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the product, the force forcing the product to reach a position where the product electrical contact engages with a corresponding connector electrical contact of the aerosol supply device.

14. The article of claim 13, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more articles include one or more magnets.

15. An aerosol supply system, comprising: Products, including: An aerosol generating material and a heating device for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of product electrical contacts, the plurality of product electrical contacts including at least a first product electrical contact and a second product electrical contact, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of product electrical contacts in the plurality of product electrical contacts; and One or more magnetic components of an article; The system further includes an aerosol supply device, which comprises: The article receiving section is configured to receive the article during use; An electrical connector for supplying power to a product received by the product receiving portion, the electrical connector including a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with corresponding plurality of product electrical contacts of the product, the plurality of connector electrical contacts including at least a first connector electrical contact and a second connector electrical contact; and One or more magnetic components of the device are configured to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to reach a position where the first article electrical contact portion and the second article electrical contact portion of the article engage with the first connector electrical contact portion and the second connector electrical contact portion of the electrical connector, respectively.

16. The aerosol supply system according to claim 15, wherein, The plurality of product electrical contacts include a third product electrical contact, and the plurality of connector electrical contacts include a third connector electrical contact. Wherein, the magnetic components of the one or more devices are configured to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to reach the position where the first article electrical contact, the second article electrical contact and the third article electrical contact of the article engage with the first connector electrical contact, the second connector electrical contact and the third connector electrical contact of the electrical connector, respectively.

17. The aerosol supply system according to claim 15 or 16, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more devices include one or more magnets.

18. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more devices include one or more electromagnets.

19. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein, The magnetic components of the one or more devices include multiple magnetic components.

20. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein, The aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol supply device is defined with a remote end that is away from the user during use.

21. The aerosol supply system according to claim 20, wherein, One or more of the magnetic components of the one or more devices are positioned at the distal end of the article receiving portion in the aerosol supply device, or wherein one or more of the magnetic components of the one or more devices are positioned in the aerosol supply device to longitudinally overlap with the article receiving portion.

22. An aerosol supply device, comprising: The article receiving section is configured to receive articles in use, the articles including aerosol generating material and a heating device for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of article electrical contacts, the plurality of article electrical contacts including a first article electrical contact and a second article electrical contact, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts in the plurality of article electrical contacts; An electrical connector for supplying power to a product received by the product receiving portion, the electrical connector including a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with corresponding plurality of product electrical contacts of the product, the plurality of connector electrical contacts including at least a first connector electrical contact and a second connector electrical contact; and One or more magnetic components of a device are configured to apply a force to one or more magnetic components of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to reach a position where the first connector electrical contact and the second connector electrical contact engage with corresponding first article electrical contacts and second article electrical contacts of the article, respectively.

23. The aerosol supply device according to claim 22, wherein, The electrical connector includes a third connector electrical contact, wherein the plurality of article electrical contacts include a third article electrical contact, and wherein one or more device magnetic components are configured to apply a force to one or more magnetic components of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the force forcing the article to reach a position where the first connector electrical contact, the second connector electrical contact, and the third connector electrical contact engage with corresponding first article electrical contact, second article electrical contact, and third article electrical contact of the article, respectively.

24. An article for use in an aerosol supply device, comprising: Aerosol generating materials; A heating device for heating the aerosol-generating material, wherein the heating device includes one or more heating elements and a plurality of product electrical contacts, the plurality of product electrical contacts including a first product electrical contact and a second product electrical contact, wherein each of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of product electrical contacts in the plurality of product electrical contacts; and One or more magnetic components of an article are configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol supply device configured to receive the article and to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, the force forcing the article to reach a position where the first article electrical contact and the second article electrical contact of the article respectively engage with the corresponding first connector electrical contact and the second connector electrical contact of the aerosol supply device.

25. The article of manufacture according to claim 24, wherein, The plurality of product electrical contacts include a third product electrical contact, and wherein the one or more product magnetic components are configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol supply device configured to receive the product and to apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the product, the force forcing the product to reach a position where the first product electrical contact, the second product electrical contact, and the third product electrical contact of the product respectively engage with the corresponding first connector electrical contact, the second connector electrical contact, and the third connector electrical contact of the aerosol supply device.

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