Aerosol provision device

Abstract

An aerosol provision device (100) is provided. The aerosol provision device (100) comprises first and second members (130, 140) defining a heating zone (105) therebetween, the heating zone being arranged to receive at least a portion of an article (300) comprising aerosol generating material (302). The first member (130) is movable relative to the second member (140) and the first and second members (130, 140) are arranged to clamp the article (300) in the heating zone (105). The first member (130) is resilient. One or each of the first and second members (130, 140) comprises at least part of a magnetic field generator (119) for generating a varying magnetic field for heating the aerosol generating material (302) when the portion of the article (300) is located in the heating zone (105).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol supply device for generating aerosols from aerosol-generating materials. The invention also relates to an aerosol supply system. Background Technology

[0002] Smoking products such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning products by manufacturing products that release compounds without combustion. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating but not burning a material. This material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: a first component and a second component defining a heating zone therebetween, the heating zone being arranged to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material, wherein the first component is movable relative to the second component, and the first and second components are arranged to clamp the article within the heating zone; wherein the first component is resilient; and wherein one or each of the first and second components includes at least a portion of a magnetic field generator for generating a varying magnetic field for heating the aerosol-generating material when said portion of the article is located within the heating zone.

[0004] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: a first member and a second member defining a heating zone therebetween, the heating zone being arranged to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, wherein the first member is movable relative to the second member, and the first and second members are arranged to clamp the article in the heating zone; wherein the first member is resilient and includes a flared portion configured to cause deformation of the first member when the article is inserted into the heating zone.

[0005] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: a first member and a second member defining a heating zone therebetween, the heating zone being arranged to receive a planar article comprising aerosol generating material, wherein the first member is movable relative to the second member; wherein the first member and the second member are arranged to clamp the planar article in the heating zone, and wherein the first member is resilient.

[0006] In any of the above embodiments, one or each of the first and second components may include at least a portion of a magnetic field generator for generating a changing magnetic field for heating the aerosol-generating material when the portion of the work-in-process is located in the heating zone.

[0007] In any of the above embodiments, the first component may include at least a portion of the magnetic field generator. In any of the above embodiments, the second component may include at least a portion of the magnetic field generator.

[0008] In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the magnetic field generator may include an inductor. In any of the above embodiments, the inductor may be a two-dimensional coil. In any of the above embodiments, the inductor may be planar. In any of the above embodiments, the inductor may be flexible. In any of the above embodiments, the inductor may be printed. In any of the above embodiments, the inductor may be a helical coil. In any of the above embodiments, the maximum width of the inductor may be greater than the maximum height of the inductor. In any of the above embodiments, the inductor may include a planar helical coil. In any of the above embodiments, the planar helical coil may be arc-shaped.

[0009] In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the magnetic field generator may include an array of inductor coils. In any of the above embodiments, the array of inductor coils may be aligned along an axis.

[0010] In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first component and the second component may include a support component. In any of the above embodiments, the first component may include a support component. In any of the above embodiments, the second component may include a support component.

[0011] In any of the above embodiments, the support member can be elastic.

[0012] In any of the above embodiments, the inductor coil may be integrated with the support member. In any of the above embodiments, the inductor coil may be printed on the support member.

[0013] In any of the above embodiments, the inductor coil can be separated from the heating zone by a support member.

[0014] In any of the above embodiments, the support member may include thermal insulation material. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may be a thermal insulation member.

[0015] In any of the above embodiments, the support member may comprise an electrically insulating material. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may be an electrically insulating member.

[0016] In any of the above embodiments, one or both of the first and second components may include a generally planar portion configured for adjacent articles.

[0017] In any of the above embodiments, the heating zone may be configured to receive a planar article.

[0018] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may include a flared portion configured to cause deformation of the first component when the article is inserted into the heating zone.

[0019] In any of the above embodiments, the flared portion may be included in the first component.

[0020] In any of the above embodiments, the flared portion may be included in the second component.

[0021] In any of the above embodiments, the flared portion may include a curved portion that at least partially defines the opening of the heating zone.

[0022] In any of the above embodiments, the opening of the heating zone may be tapered.

[0023] In any of the above embodiments, the flared portion or each flared portion can smoothly connect to the generally planar portion or each generally planar portion.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, the first and second components may be arranged to be pushed away from each other by inserting the article into the heating zone. In any of the above embodiments, the first and second components may be arranged to be forced apart by inserting the article into the heating zone.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, the first component and the second component may be arranged as at least a portion of the compressed article.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first member and the second member may be biased toward the other of the first member and the second member.

[0027] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device may include an elastic member connecting the first member to the second member. The elastic member may be a spring.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first component and the second component may include a heat-insulating material. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first component and the second component may be a heat-insulating component.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first component and the second component may comprise an electrically insulating material. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first component and the second component may be an electrically insulating component.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the first component and the second component are arranged to compress the article in the heating zone.

[0031] In any of the above embodiments, the first and second components are arranged to compress the article in the heating zone such that the pressure drop of the airflow through the article increases by more than 5%, more than 10%, more than 20%, more than 30%, more than 40%, more than 50%, more than 70%, or more than 100% relative to the uncompressed state.

[0032] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: a chamber configured to at least partially receive an article of any of the above embodiments, the chamber being configured as a heating chamber for heating the article, wherein the device is configured to guide air through the article.

[0033] According to the embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply system is provided, which includes an aerosol supply device according to any of the above embodiments and an article containing aerosol generating materials.

[0034] According to some embodiments described herein, an article is provided for use with an aerosol supply device, the article comprising: an aerosol generating material, a first sheet material, a second sheet material, and a corrugated sheet material located between the first sheet material and the second sheet material.

[0035] According to some embodiments described herein, an article is provided for use with an aerosol supply device, the article comprising: an aerosol generating material, a first sheet material, a second sheet material, and an elastic member located between the first sheet material and the second sheet material. The elastic member may be a corrugated sheet material. The elastic member may be a compressible member.

[0036] In any of the above embodiments, the first sheet material may be a planar sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the second sheet material may be a planar sheet material.

[0037] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material can be sandwiched between the first sheet material and the second sheet material.

[0038] In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a mouth end and a distal end.

[0039] In any of the above embodiments, an airflow path can be defined within the article between the mouth tip and the distal end.

[0040] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may define at least a portion of the airflow path.

[0041] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may include corrugations.

[0042] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugations may extend parallel to the airflow path. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugations may extend perpendicular to the airflow path.

[0043] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be located between the first sheet material and the second sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be located between at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material and the corrugated sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may extend between at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material and the corrugated sheet material.

[0044] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be located on the corrugated sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be located on at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material.

[0045] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may contact at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may adhere to at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, a corresponding crest of the corrugated sheet material may contact at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, a corresponding crest of the corrugated sheet material may adhere to at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first sheet material and the second sheet material includes a plurality of aerosol-free material regions. In any of the above embodiments, a corresponding crest of the corrugated sheet material may contact a corresponding aerosol-free material region of the first sheet material or the second sheet material.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may define a heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may include a support member. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may include a heating material. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may include a support layer and a heating material layer. In any of the above embodiments, the heating material layer may be located on the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may be a double-layered sheet. In any of the above embodiments, an aerosol-generating material may be located on the corrugated sheet material.

[0047] In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a receptor layer. In any of the above embodiments, the receptor layer may include aluminum. In any of the above embodiments, the receptor layer may include a foil. In any of the above embodiments, the heating material can be heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field.

[0048] In any of the above embodiments, the first sheet material may define a heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the first sheet material may include a support member. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may include a heating material. In any of the above embodiments, the first sheet material may include a support layer and a heating material layer. In any of the above embodiments, the heating material layer may be located on the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the first sheet material may be a double-layered sheet. In any of the above embodiments, an aerosol-generating material may be located on the first sheet material.

[0049] In any of the above embodiments, the second sheet material may define a heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the second sheet material may include a support member. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may include a heating material. In any of the above embodiments, the second sheet material may include a support layer and a heating material layer. In any of the above embodiments, the heating material layer may be located on the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the second sheet material may be a double-layered sheet. In any of the above embodiments, an aerosol-generating material may be located on the second sheet material.

[0050] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may define the spacer.

[0051] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material can be directly heated.

[0052] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material can be indirectly heated.

[0053] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may be a first corrugated sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a second corrugated sheet material.

[0054] In any of the above embodiments, the article may include an intermediate sheet material located between the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the intermediate sheet material may define a heating element.

[0055] In any of the above embodiments, the article may be configured to be received in an aerosol supply device.

[0056] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may include multiple orifices in the airflow path.

[0057] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may include crests and troughs.

[0058] In any of the above embodiments, each corrugated sheet material can be formed as a sine wave, a square wave, or a triangular wave.

[0059] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material can define an elastic member. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material can be elastic in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0060] In any of the above embodiments, the article may be elastic between the first sheet material and the second sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the article may be compressible.

[0061] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may be compressible. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may be compressed to reduce the size of the airflow path relative to its uncompressed state. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may be compressed to increase the airflow resistance of the article relative to its uncompressed state. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may be compressed to increase the airflow resistance of the article relative to its uncompressed state by an increase greater than 5%, greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 70%, or greater than 100%.

[0062] According to some embodiments described herein, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, the article comprising: an aerosol generating material, a first corrugated sheet material, a second corrugated sheet material, and an intermediate sheet material located between the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material.

[0063] In any of the above embodiments, the intermediate sheet material may be planar.

[0064] In any of the above embodiments, the intermediate sheet material can be sandwiched between the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material.

[0065] In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a mouthpiece and a distal end. In any of the above embodiments, an airflow path may be defined within the article between the mouthpiece and the distal end. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may define at least a portion of the airflow path. In any of the above embodiments, each of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may define at least a portion of the airflow path.

[0066] In any of the above embodiments, the first corrugated sheet material may include corrugations. In any of the above embodiments, the second corrugated sheet material may include corrugations. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugations may extend parallel to the airflow path. In any of the above embodiments, the corrugations may extend perpendicular to the airflow path.

[0067] In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may define an elastic member. In any of the above embodiments, each of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may define an elastic member. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may be elastic in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In any of the above embodiments, each of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may be elastic in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0068] In any of the above embodiments, the article may be compressible. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may be compressible. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may be compressed to reduce the size of the airflow path relative to the uncompressed state. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may be compressed to increase the airflow resistance of the article relative to the uncompressed state, by an increase greater than 5%, greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 70%, or greater than 100%.

[0069] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be located on at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be located on both the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, at least one of the first corrugated sheet material and the second corrugated sheet material may define the heating element.

[0070] In any of the above embodiments, the corrugated sheet material may include a support member. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may include a heating material. In any of the above embodiments, the support member may include a support layer and a heating material layer. In any of the above embodiments, the heating material layer may be on the support layer.

[0071] In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a receptor layer. In any of the above embodiments, the receptor layer may comprise aluminum. In any of the above embodiments, the receptor layer may include a foil. In any of the above embodiments, the heating material can be heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field.

[0072] In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the article may be substantially planar. In any of the above embodiments, the entire article may be substantially planar. In any of the above embodiments, the article may be a flat strip. In any of the above embodiments, the article may be rectangular. In any of the above embodiments, the article may be oblong.

[0073] In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the heating element may be a resistance heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the heating element may comprise a material that is heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field.

[0074] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be a gel. In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a support member. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be bonded to the support member. In any of the above embodiments, the article may include a foil layer.

[0075] In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the article may be incompressible. In any of the above embodiments, the entire article may be incompressible.

[0076] In any of the above embodiments, the article may have a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to both the length and the width. In any of the above embodiments, the length may be greater than or equal to the width. In any of the above embodiments, the width may be greater than the depth.

[0077] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol generation system is provided, the system including an aerosol supply device and the article of any of the above embodiments.

[0078] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol generation system is provided, the system comprising the aerosol supply device and the article of any of the above embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0079] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerosol supply system is shown; Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol supply device; Figure 3 It shows the use of Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the apparatus and a portion of the article containing aerosol generating material; Figure 4 It shows Figure 1A schematic exploded view of the product of the aerosol supply system; Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of the product; Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 A schematic exploded view of another product of the aerosol supply system; Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the product; and Figure 8 It shows Figure 1 A schematic exploded view of another product of the aerosol supply system. Detailed Implementation

[0080] As used herein, the term "delivery mechanism" is intended to encompass systems that deliver substances to users and includes: non-combustible aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without combustion, such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and hybrid systems that utilize combinations of aerosolizable materials to generate aerosols; and articles comprising aerosolizable materials and configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol supply systems.

[0081] According to this disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol supply system is a system in which the constituent aerosol generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or its components) are not burned or incinerated to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0082] In some implementations, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as an electrically powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0083] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as an atomizing device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not necessary.

[0084] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a heating system for the aerosol generating material, also known as a heated non-combustible system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0085] In some embodiments, the non-combustible 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, a 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.

[0086] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0087] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles in this disclosure.

[0088] In some implementations, a non-combustible aerosol supply system (such as its non-combustible aerosol supply device) may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source.

[0089] In some embodiments, a non-combustible 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.

[0090] In some embodiments, consumables for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices may include aerosol generating material, aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material delivery component, aerosol generator, aerosol generating area, housing, packaging paper, filter, nozzle and / or aerosol modifier.

[0091] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" (sometimes referred to herein as aerosolizable material) is a material that, for example, is capable of generating aerosols when heated, irradiated, or otherwise energized. Aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or semi-solid (e.g., gel), and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0092] In some implementations, the substance to be delivered includes an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0093] In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives or extracts, and the plant is tobacco.

[0094] In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives or extracts, and the plants are selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa and hemp plants.

[0095] In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives or extracts, and the plants are selected from red tea tree and fennel.

[0096] In some implementations, the substance to be delivered includes a flavoring agent.

[0097] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavoring components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits, and / or cranberry. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavoring components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavoring components extracted from hemp plants.

[0098] In some embodiments, in addition to or in place of aroma or taste receptors, flavoring agents may include sensory agents designed to achieve somatic sensations typically induced and perceived by chemical stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), and these may include agents that provide heating, cooling, tingling, or numbing effects. Suitable heat-effecting agents may be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ether, and suitable coolants may be, but are not limited to, eucalyptol, WS-3.

[0099] Aerosol-generating materials may include one or more active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0100] Aerosol-generating materials may include binders (such as gelling agents) and aerosol-forming agents. 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 be soluble in or insoluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0101] Aerosol-generating materials may include or be in the form of aerosol-generating membranes. Aerosol-generating membranes may include binders (such as gelling agents) and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or a filler may also be present. Aerosol-generating membranes may be substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0102] The thickness of the aerosol-generated film can be from 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.

[0103] Aerosol-generated membranes can be continuous. For example, the membrane may comprise a continuous sheet of material or a continuous sheet of its material.

[0104] 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, stripes, or lines, which may be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0105] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material includes a plurality of aerosol-generating membranes. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating membrane includes a plurality of aerosol-generating membrane regions. Such plurality of aerosol-generating membranes and / or aerosol-generating membrane regions may have different properties, 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.

[0106] Aerosol-generating membranes can be formed by combining a binder (such as a gelling agent) with a solvent (such as water), an aerosol forming agent, and one or more other components (such as one or more substances to be delivered) to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to evaporate at least a portion of the solvent to form an aerosol-generating membrane.

[0107] The slurry can be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent.

[0108] 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 surrounding area 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers and / or antioxidants.

[0111] The material may be present on or within the support to form a matrix. The support may be, or include, for example, paper, cardboard, cardboard, reconstituted materials, plastic materials, ceramic materials, composite materials, glass, metal, or metal alloys.

[0112] The aerosol supply device can receive articles comprising aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, "article" refers to an assembly that includes or contains, when in use, the aerosol-generating material as described above, which is heated during use to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally other components. A user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol supply device before the aerosol supply device heats the article to generate an aerosol, and the user subsequently inhales the aerosol.

[0113] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, an aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol.

[0114] Consumables are articles containing or composed of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are intended to be consumed by a user during use. Consumables may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material delivery 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 through which an electric current can heat the conductor.

[0115] A non-combustible aerosol supply system may include modular components comprising a reusable aerosol supply device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may, for example, include a power source such as a battery or a rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol generating article may partially or completely comprise the aerosol generating component. Various embodiments will now be described in more detail.

[0116] Figure 1 An aerosol supply system 10 is illustrated. System 10 includes an aerosol supply device 100 for generating aerosols from aerosol generating material 302 and an article 300 containing aerosol generating material 302. In general, device 100 can be used to heat article 300 to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium to be inhaled by a user of device 100. Article 300 and device 100 together form aerosol supply system 10. The system may include any article described herein, such as… Figure 4 and Figure 5 Products 210 Figure 6 and Figure 7 Products 510 and Figure 8 Product 410.

[0117] The aerosol supply device 100 is an elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply device has a proximal end 104 and a distal end 106, the proximal end being closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when the user inhales the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply device 100, and the distal end being furthest from the user during use. The proximal end 104 may also be referred to as the "mouth end". The aerosol supply device 100 thus also defines a proximal direction that faces the user during use, i.e., the direction from the distal end 106 to the proximal end 104. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device 100 also defines a distal direction that faces away from the user during use, i.e., the direction from the proximal end 104 to the distal end 106.

[0118] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a main body 101. A housing 102 surrounds and houses the components of the main body 101. The device 100 also includes a button assembly 200, which serves as a user interface for operating the device 100 when pressed. For example, a user can turn on the device 100 by operating the button assembly 200. The button assembly 200 includes a button 107, such as... Figure 2 As shown. The button assembly 200 can be assembled as part of other components of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0119] Figure 3A perspective view of article 300 is shown. Article 300 includes a support member 306. The support member defines a sheet-like material. The sheet-like material may comprise a single layer or multiple layers, as described below. Aerosol generating material 302 is located on the support member 306 and configured as a sheet-like material. Aerosol generating material 302 is bonded to the support member 306. The support member 306 provides structural support for the aerosol generating material 302. In embodiments, the support member 306 may be omitted. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material 302 is a gel. The aerosol generating material 302 is formed as an aerosol generating material layer 302.

[0120] Article 300 includes heating material 304. Heating material 304 is heating element 304. Heating material 304 is contained in support member 306. Heating material 304 forms support member 306. In an embodiment, heating material 304 is heating layer 304. In an embodiment, support member 306 includes support layer, and heating layer is a layer separate from support layer and disposed on support layer. In an embodiment, heating material 304 is omitted, for example when heating element is located in device 100.

[0121] Aerosol generating material 302 is located on heating material 304. Support 306 forms a substrate. In one embodiment, the support layer, heating layer 304, and aerosol generating material layer 302 form a laminate. In one embodiment, heating material 304 is separate from support 306. In one embodiment, support 306 does not contain heating material. In one embodiment, support 306 includes one or more of paper, card, foil, and their laminates. In one embodiment, heating material 304 may be omitted from article 300. Heating material may be provided in aerosol supply device 100.

[0122] Heating element 304 comprises a material that can be heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field. Heating element 304 is a sensor. In an embodiment, heating element 304 is a resistance heating element. In such embodiments, at least a portion of the electrical path including heating element 304 is exposed to the outside of article 300. The electrical path includes exposed electrical contacts. The exposed electrical contacts are configured to be electrically connected to a device connector. In an embodiment, the device connector is included in aerosol supply device 100. This allows contact between the exposed electrical contacts and the device connector to allow current to pass through the resistance heating element 304.

[0123] The aerosol generating material 302 and the support member 306 are together formed into a sheet. The sheet comprises multiple layers. These layers are formed as a laminate.

[0124] Article 300 is planar. Article 300 is a flat strip. As used herein, the term "planar" refers to a component whose depth is significantly less than its length and width. Article 300 has an external length of L, a width of W, and a depth of D. The width W is perpendicular to the length L, and the depth D is perpendicular to each of the length L and the width W. In this embodiment, the length L is greater than the width W, and the width W is greater than the depth D. The depth D is less than 30%, less than 20%, or less than 10% of the width W. The depth D is less than 30%, less than 20%, or less than 10% of the length L.

[0125] In this embodiment, the exterior of article 300 is a rectangular cube, making article 300 elongated and having a generally rectangular cross-section. However, in other embodiments, the length L may be equal to or approximately equal to the width W, making article 300 itself not elongated. In some such embodiments, the exterior of article 300 may be a square cube. In some embodiments, the exterior of article 300 may not be a cube. For example, in some embodiments, some or all of the edges of the exterior of article 300 may be beveled or rounded. In some embodiments, article 300 may have a cross-section other than generally rectangular, such as an elliptical cross-section. In one embodiment, article 300 is a rod. In another embodiment, article 300 is generally cylindrical.

[0126] Article 300 may also include at least one of other components, such as a filter, a wrapping material, and a cooling structure.

[0127] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol supply device 100 is shown. The aerosol supply device 100 includes a heating zone 105. The aerosol supply device 100 includes an opening 103 leading to the heating zone 105. The opening 103 is located at a proximal end 104 of the device. An article 300 can be inserted through the opening 103 to be held within the heating zone 105. The article 300 is heated, thereby generating an inhalable medium, which can then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0128] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a first receiving wall device 130 and an opposing second receiving wall device 140. The first receiving wall device 130 serves as a first component 130, and the second receiving wall device 140 serves as a second component 140. A heating zone 105 is defined between the first component 130 and the second component 140. In embodiments, other components may define the heating zone.

[0129] The first component 130 is movable relative to the second component 140. Such movement only needs to be relative. The first component 130 is movable relative to the main body 101. The second component 140 is fixed relative to the main body 101. In one embodiment, the first component 130 is fixed relative to the main body 101, while the second component is movable relative to the main body 101. In another embodiment, both the first component 130 and the second component 140 are movable relative to the main body 101. In yet another embodiment, neither the first component 130 nor the second component 140 is movable. In a further embodiment, the first component 130 and the second component 140 are fixed relative to each other.

[0130] The first component 130 is elongated. The first component 130 includes a first wall portion 130a. The first wall portion 130a is the majority of the axial extent of the first component 130. The first wall portion 130a extends along the axial direction of the aerosol supply device 100. The first wall portion 130a has a constant profile along its axial extent. At least a portion of the profile of the first wall portion 130a conforms to the outer profile of the article 300. This allows the article 300 to slide through the first wall portion 130a during axial insertion into the heating zone 105. The first wall portion 130a is substantially planar. In an embodiment, the first wall portion 130a is not planar. In an embodiment, the first wall portion 130a is curved. In an embodiment, the first wall portion 130a has a concave profile. In an embodiment, the first wall portion 130a has a partially circular profile, such as a semi-circular profile, for example, to conform to a rod-shaped consumable.

[0131] The first member 130 is elastic. That is, the first member tends to a neutral position and can move away from that neutral position. The first member 130 can deflect or deform without breaking. In some embodiments, only a portion of the first member 130 is elastic. A portion of the first member 130 may be rigid. The second member 140 is rigid. In some embodiments, the second member 140 is elastic.

[0132] The second member 140 is elongated. The second member 140 includes a second wall portion 140a. The second wall portion 140a occupies a large portion of the axial range of the second member 140. In this embodiment, the second wall portion 140a is the entire second member 140. The second wall portion 140a extends along the axial direction of the aerosol supply device 100. The second wall portion 140a has a constant profile within its axial range. The profile of the second wall portion 140a conforms to the outer profile of the article 300. This allows the article 300 to be inserted axially into the heating zone 105, sliding over the second wall portion 140a. The second wall portion 140a is substantially planar. In some embodiments, the second wall portion 140a is not planar. In some embodiments, the second wall portion 140a is curved. In some embodiments, the second wall portion 140a has a concave profile. In some embodiments, the second wall portion 140a has a partially circular profile, such as a semi-circular profile, for example, to conform to a rod-shaped consumable.

[0133] The first wall portion 130a of the first member 130 is substantially parallel to the second wall portion 140a of the second member 140. The distance between the wall portions 130a and 140a of the first member 130 and the second member 140 defines the width of the heating zone 105 under neutral conditions. The width of the heating zone 105 under neutral conditions is substantially constant along most of the length or axial range of the heating zone 105. The width of the heating zone 105 may vary due to relative movement between the first member 130 and the second member 140, for example, due to deformation or deflection of the first member 130.

[0134] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a flared portion 150. The flared portion 150 is located proximal to the heating zone 105. The flared portion 150 partially defines an opening 103. Therefore, the width of the heating zone 105 is wider at the opening 103 and then narrows distally. The flared portion 150 includes a bend. In some embodiments, the flared portion 150 is not bendable. The flared portion 150 provides a tapered portion. The flared portion 150 is included in a first member 130. Therefore, the first member 130 includes the flared portion 150 and a first wall portion 130a. The flared portion 150 and the first wall portion 130a are smoothly joined. The flared portion 150 may be omitted.

[0135] The flared portion 150 facilitates the insertion of the article 300 into the heating zone 105. In some embodiments, inserting the article 300 into the heating zone 105 causes relative movement between the first member 130 and the second member 140. When the article 300 is inserted into the opening 103, the distal end of the article 300 will first contact the flared portion 150. As the article 300 is pushed into the heating zone 105, the distal end of the article 300 engages with the flared portion 150, causing relative movement between the first member 130 and the second member 140. This increases the width of the heating zone 105 until it matches the depth of the article 300.

[0136] The first component 130 is an integrated part. The first component 130 is a single part. In some embodiments, the first component 130 is a composite part. The flared portion 150 is elastic. In some embodiments, the flared portion 150 may be included in the second component 140. In some embodiments, both the first component 130 and the second component 140 include flared portions.

[0137] When there is no product 300 in the heating zone 105, i.e. under neutral conditions, the distance between the first wall portions 130a and 140a is less than the thickness of the product 300. In some embodiments, the first wall portions 130a and 140a do not contact each other.

[0138] Inserting the article 300 into the heating zone 105 causes relative movement between the first member 130 and the second member 140. Inserting the article 300 into the heating zone 105 causes the first member 130 to deflect or deform to accommodate the article 300. The first member 130 and the second member 140 are arranged to hold the article 300 when it is at least partially inserted into the heating zone 105. Because the first member 130 is elastic, it exerts a reaction force on the article 300 upon deformation or deflection. This helps to hold the article 300 within the heating zone 105.

[0139] The first member 130 and the second member 140 are arranged to compress at least a portion of the article 300 when it is at least partially inserted into the heating zone 105. This can occur in embodiments where one or both of the first member 130 and the second member 140 are movable, as well as in embodiments where both are fixed.

[0140] This compression of article 300 compresses aerosol generating material 302 to improve its thermal conductivity. Compression of aerosol generating material 302 can provide higher heat transfer through article 300. This compression should not be so great as to cause article 300 to rupture or prevent a user from extracting volatilized material from article 300. In some embodiments, article 300 is not significantly compressed when inserted into heating zone 105. In some embodiments, article is incompressible or substantially incompressible.

[0141] Compression of article 300 can increase the pressure drop of the airflow through article 300 relative to its uncompressed state. The dimensions of heating zone 105, such as the neutral distance between the first member 130 and the second member 140 (in the absence of article 300), and the compressibility of article 300, can be selected to provide the desired pressure drop through article 300 in use. In some embodiments, the pressure drop through article when inserted into heating zone 105 and compressed can be increased by greater than 5%, greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 70%, or greater than 100% relative to the pressure drop through article when uncompressed (e.g., outside heating zone 105).

[0142] In some embodiments, one or both of the first member 130 and the second member 140 are biased toward the other member 130, 140. In some embodiments, an elastic member (e.g., a spring) provides this bias. The elastic member may extend between the first member 130 and the second member 140. The elastic member may extend between the first member 130 or the second member 140 and another feature of the aerosol supply device 100 (e.g., the body 101). This bias may be a result of the elasticity of the first member 130. In some embodiments, the elastic member may be omitted. In some embodiments, the first member 130 and / or the second member 140 itself may include an elastic member, functioning as a biasing member.

[0143] As described above, the heating element 304 is included in the article 300. In some embodiments, the heating element 304 is included in the aerosol supply device 100. In some embodiments, the article 300 does not include the heating element 304.

[0144] The aerosol supply system 10 includes an induction heating system. The induction heating system includes a magnetic field generator 119 and a heating element 304. The magnetic field generator 119 includes an inductor coil assembly. The inductor coil assembly forms part of the magnetic field generator 119. The inductor coil assembly is included in the aerosol supply device 100.

[0145] The inductor assembly includes an inductor coil 121. In some embodiments, the number of inductor coils varies. In some embodiments, two or more inductor coils are used. In some embodiments, the inductor assembly includes an array of inductor coils. In some embodiments, the inductor coil array is aligned along an axis. In some embodiments, this axis is a longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the inductor assembly also includes a coil support. The coil support may be omitted.

[0146] Inductor 121 is a two-dimensional coil. Inductor 121 is planar. In some embodiments, inductor 121 may be a three-dimensional coil, such as a helical coil, such as a circular helix. Inductor 121 is flexible. Inductor 121 is capable of bending without breaking. In some embodiments, inductor 121 is rigid. Inductor 121 defines a helix. Inductor 121 defines a two-dimensional helix.

[0147] The inductor coil 121 has a maximum width and a maximum height. The maximum width is greater than the maximum height. In some embodiments, the inductor coil 121 comprises a flat helical coil.

[0148] Inductor coil 121 is included in first member 130. Therefore, a portion of magnetic field generator 119 is included in first member 130. In some embodiments, inductor coil 121 is included in second member 140. In some embodiments, inductor coil 121 is included in each of first member 130 and second member 140.

[0149] The first component 130 includes a support component 132 and an inductor coil 121. The inductor coil 121 is bonded to the support component 132. In some embodiments, the inductor coil 121 is printed on the support component 132. In some embodiments, the inductor coil 121 is embedded in the support component. In some embodiments, the inductor coil 121 forms part of the support component 132.

[0150] The inductor coil 121 is separated from the heating zone 105 by at least a portion of the support member 132. The inductor coil 121 is disposed on the side of the support member 132 opposite to the heating zone 105. The support member 132 comprises a heat-insulating material. The support member 132 is a heat-insulating member. The support member 132 comprises an electrically insulating material. The support member 132 is an electrically insulating member. The support member 132 separates the inductor coil 121 from the heating zone 105. The first member 130 comprises a heat-insulating material. The first member 130 is a heat-insulating member. The first member 130 comprises an electrically insulating material. The first member 130 is an electrically insulating member. In some embodiments, the inductor coil 121 is exposed to the heating zone. In some embodiments, the support member 132 may be omitted.

[0151] A two-dimensional inductor coil 121 is disposed in at least one of the first member 130 and the second member 140 such that the inductor coil 121 can be biased toward the article 300. This helps to provide a consistent spacing between the inductor coil and the heating element 304. Therefore, consistent heating can be achieved, considering that the effectiveness of induction heating depends on the distance between the induction source (e.g., coil 121) and the sensor (e.g., heating element 304). In embodiments with an array of coils, this arrangement helps to provide a consistent spacing between each coil and the heating element 304. Therefore, this results in more efficient heating and avoids hot spots and / or cold spots due to variable spacing between the inductor coil 121 and the heating element 304. The pressure exerted on the article 300 due to the elasticity of the first member 130 can lead to increased proximity between the inductor coil 121 and the heating element 304. This can also reduce or eliminate air gaps between the article 300 and the first member 130 or the second member 140, which can further improve heating efficiency.

[0152] Similar effects can be achieved when article 300 is compressible (e.g., when the first member 130 and the second member 140 are fixed). This can be the case for any article 300, 210, 410, 510 disclosed herein. When articles 210, 410, 510 comprise one or more corrugated sheet materials, articles 210, 410, 510 may be relatively more elastic due to the inherent compressibility of the corrugated sheet materials. Furthermore, as described above, using elastic or compressible articles 300, 210, 410, 510 (where one or more of the first member 130 and the second member 140 are movable) in the aerosol supply device 100 can provide more efficient heating.

[0153] The biasing between the first member 130 and the second member 140 and / or the compression of the compressible article 300 can reduce or prevent relative movement between the induction source or heating element and the article 300. This can improve the user experience when using the device 100 while walking or jogging.

[0154] The aerosol supply system 10 may include other types of heating systems besides induction heating systems, or alternatives to induction heating systems. In some embodiments, the aerosol supply system 10 includes a resistance heating system.

[0155] As described above, in some embodiments, article 300 may include a resistance heating element 304. Aerosol supply device 100 may include device contacts for electrical connection to the heating element 304 to electrically activate the heating element 304 by allowing current to flow through it. In some embodiments, article 300 may provide an electrical rail or contact that engages with the heating element 304, such that the device contacts do not need to directly contact the heating element 304. The device contacts may be disposed in the heating zone 105. The device contacts may be disposed on or form part of the first member 130. The device contacts may be flexible. The device contacts may be resilient. Electrical contact between the device contacts and the heating element 304 or the electrical contacts of article 300 may be improved by biasing the first member 130 and the second member 140 as described below, or by the resilientness or compressibility of article 300, even when the first member 130 and the second member 140 are fixed.

[0156] In some embodiments, the aerosol supply device 100 may include a resistance heating element. Other types of heating elements are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the number of heating elements may vary. In some embodiments, the aerosol supply device 100 includes two or more heating elements. The heating element may be two-dimensional. The heating element may be planar. The heating element may be flexible. The heating element may be elastic. The heating element may be able to bend without breaking. The heating element may be a resistance heating trajectory. This trajectory may follow a tortuous path.

[0157] A heating element may be disposed on a first member 130. The heating element may be bonded to the first member 130. In some embodiments, the heating element is printed on the first member 130. In some embodiments, the heating element forms part of the first member 130. In some embodiments, the heating element is disposed on a second member 140. In some embodiments, the heating element is bonded to the second member 140. In some embodiments, the heating element is printed on the second member 140. In some embodiments, the heating element forms part of the second member 140. In some embodiments, both the first member 130 and the second member 140 include a heating element. In some embodiments, the heating element is embedded in at least one of the first member 130 and the second member 140.

[0158] The heating element may be separated from the heating zone 105 by a first member 130. The heating element may be disposed on the side of the first member 130 opposite to the heating zone 105. In one embodiment, the heating element is exposed to the heating zone. In another embodiment, the heating element is separated from the heating zone by a second member.

[0159] A two-dimensional heating element is disposed on the first or second component 130, 140, so that the heating element can be positioned close to the aerosol generating material 302, which can result in more efficient heating. The bias voltage applied to the article 300 due to the elasticity of the first component 130 can improve the proximity between the heating element and the aerosol generating material 302.

[0160] The aerosol supply device 100 includes an electrical component connector 160 that receives a cable to charge the device 100. For example, the connector 160 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In embodiments, the connector 160 may additionally or alternatively be used to transfer data between the device 100 and another device, such as a computing device.

[0161] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a power source 170, such as a battery, including rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (e.g., nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically connected to a magnetic field generator 119 to supply power as needed and under the control of a controller, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0162] The aerosol supply device 100 includes an electronic module 112. The electronic module 112 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may support at least one controller (e.g., a processor) and memory. The PCB may also include one or more electrical rails to electrically connect various electronic components of the device 100 together. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB, allowing power to be distributed throughout the device 100. One or more coils may be disposed on the PCB. The coils may include Litz wire.

[0163] As used herein, the term "single-piece component" refers to a component of device 100 that cannot be separated into two or more components after device 100 is assembled. As used herein, the term "integral formation" refers to two or more features that are formed as an integral component during the manufacturing stage of the component.

[0164] The aerosol supply device 100 includes an air passage 180. The air passage 180 extends from an air inlet 190 to a heating zone 105. The air passage 180 extends through a body 101. The air passage 180 is arranged to guide airflow from outside the aerosol supply device 100 to the heating zone 105, where the airflow can enter the article 300 and entrain generated aerosol for inhalation by a user. The air inlet 190 is located at the distal end 106 of the body 101. The air passage 180 is defined by a flow path member 182. The flow path member 182 extends between the heating zone 105 and the air inlet 190. The flow path member 182 is tubular. The flow path member 182 defines an orifice. The flow path member 182 extends axially along its length. In an embodiment, the flow path member 182 extends along a tortuous path. Other airflow arrangements are also contemplated. For example, airflow may be provided between the receiving portion defining the heating zone 105 and the article 300. One or more of the air passage 180, air inlet 190 and flow path component 182 may be omitted.

[0165] Reference Figures 4 to 8 This describes in detail the structure of one embodiment of the aerosol forming article 210. The aerosol forming article 210 may be referred to as an article 210 comprising an aerosol generating material. The aerosol forming article 210 may be compared with... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol supply device 100 is used together. Article 210 is a flat article. Article 210 is a planar article. Article 210 has a laminated structure. The laminated structure includes a plurality of sheets 212. Each of the plurality of sheets 212 is adjacent to another sheet in the laminated structure. Each of the plurality of sheets 212 is arranged in the laminated structure such that the plane of each sheet is substantially parallel to the adjacent sheet.

[0166] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The laminated structure shown comprises generally planar sheets. A planar sheet is considered to be a sheet that extends generally within a flat plane. Planar sheets may include minor surface undulations, deformations, corrugations, or other such features while still being considered planar sheets. Sheets are formed from sheet-like materials.

[0167] The laminated structure includes a first sheet material 214 and a second sheet material 216. The first and second sheet materials 214 and 216 are planar sheet materials. The first and second sheet materials 214 and 216 are generally flat. The sheet materials 214 and 216 include generally flat outer surfaces. The outer surfaces of the sheet materials 214 and 216 extend within the plane of the sheet materials.

[0168] Product 210 also includes corrugated sheet material 218. Figure 4The laminated structure includes a corrugated sheet material 218 sandwiched between a first sheet material 214 and a second sheet material 216. The corrugated sheet material 218 is formed from a panel. The corrugated sheet material 218 is sandwiched between the first and second sheet materials 214 and 216. The first and second sheet materials 214 and 216 are separated by the corrugated sheet material 218. The first and second sheet materials 214 and 216 are adjacent to the corrugated sheet material 218 but spaced apart from each other. The corrugated sheet material 218 defines spacers. The corrugated sheet material 218 spaces the first and second sheet materials 214 and 216. The corrugated sheet material 218 provides structural elasticity to the article 210. The corrugated sheet material 218 can outwardly bias the first sheet material 214 and the second sheet material 216, allowing the article 210 to maintain its dimensions.

[0169] The corrugated sheet material 218 includes corrugations. The corrugated sheet material 218 includes at least one corrugation. Corrugations may also be referred to as undulations, channels, ribs, indentations, pleats, grooves, or any other configuration considered to include undulations and drops. The cross-section of the corrugated sheet material 218 resembles a wave-like structure. The corrugations include crests 220 and troughs 222. Each crest 220 and trough 222 includes an inner surface 224 and an outer surface 226. The inner surface 224 is the shorter surface of the corresponding crest 220 or trough 222, while the outer surface 226 is the longer surface. The cross-section of the corrugated sheet material 218 is the same along its length. The cross-section of the corrugated sheet material 218 depicts a meandering or serpentine path. The cross-section of the corrugated sheet material 218 is formed as a sine wave. In other embodiments, the configuration of the corrugated sheet material 218 may be different. In one embodiment, the corrugations of the corrugated sheet material 218 can be formed as square waves or triangular waves. In other embodiments, the cross-section of the corrugated sheet material 218 can vary along the length of the corrugated sheet material 218.

[0170] like Figure 4 As shown, multiple sheet-like materials 212 are arranged in a stacked configuration within an aerosol-forming article 210, such that the aerosol-forming article 210 is generally planar. The article 210 has a length L and a width W. The length L of the article 210 is greater than its width W. The article 210 extends along a longitudinal axis A. The article 210 includes a proximal end 228 and a distal end 230. The proximal end 228 of the article 210 is also referred to as the nozzle end.

[0171] Article 210 defines an airflow path 232. The airflow path 232 is defined to pass through article 210 between nozzle tip 228 and distal tip 230. The airflow path 232 extends from distal tip 230 to proximal nozzle tip 228. The airflow path 232 is defined between first and second sheet materials 214, 216. Corrugated sheet material 218 defines at least a portion of the airflow path 232. The airflow path 232 extends through the corrugated sheet material 218. Corrugations extend parallel to the airflow path 232. The corrugated sheet material 218 includes a plurality of channels 234. Each of the plurality of channels 234 forms a portion of the airflow path 232. Each of the plurality of channels 234 extends along a longitudinal axis A. In other embodiments, the corrugations may extend perpendicular to the airflow path 232. In this embodiment, the corrugated sheet material 218 may include a plurality of holes in the airflow path 232. The plurality of holes provide fluid passages along the airflow path through the corrugated sheet material 218.

[0172] When the aerosol supply device 100 is inserted, the article 210 can be compressed. The corrugated sheet material 218 provides structural elasticity to the article 210 and allows it to be compressed. Compression can occur in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the corrugated sheet material 218. Compressing the article 210 results in a reduction in the dimensions of the airflow path 232, which may increase airflow resistance within the article 210, thus causing an increased pressure drop of the airflow passing through the article 210 compared to its uncompressed state.

[0173] The dimensions of the heating zone 105 (e.g., the neutral distance between the first and second members 130, 140 (in the absence of article 210)) and the compressibility of article 210 can be selected to provide a desired pressure drop across article 210 during use. In embodiments, the pressure drop across article 210 when inserted into the heating zone 105 and compressed can be increased by greater than 5%, greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 70%, or greater than 100% compared to the pressure drop across article 210 when it is uncompressed (e.g., outside the heating zone 105).

[0174] Article 210 includes an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material is located on a corrugated sheet material 218. The aerosol-generating material is an aerosol-generating layer. In this embodiment, the aerosol-generating material defines a discontinuous layer on the corrugated sheet material 218. The corrugated sheet material 218 serves as a support for the aerosol-generating material. In an embodiment, the aerosol-generating material is a continuous layer. In an embodiment, the aerosol-generating material may be disposed on one or more of the first and second sheet materials 214, 216, or may be omitted.

[0175] The aerosol-generating material is disposed in the troughs 222 of the corrugations. The aerosol-generating material extends along the length of the corrugated sheet material 218. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may cover the corrugated sheet material 218. The aerosol-generating material may be a gel layer. The aerosol-generating layer may be a solid material layer, such as reconstituted tobacco. The aerosol-generating layer may be located on one side of the corrugated sheet material 218. The aerosol-generating layer may be located on both sides of the corrugated sheet material 218.

[0176] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material is located on one or each of the first and second sheet materials 214, 216, in which the corrugated sheet material 218 is disposed. The aerosol-generating material may be a discontinuous layer. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating material is an inner layer on one or each of the first and second sheet materials 214, 216. In yet another embodiment, the corrugated sheet material 218 does not contain the aerosol-generating material. In yet another embodiment, the aerosol-generating material is located on each of the first and second sheet materials 214, 216 and on the corrugated sheet material 218.

[0177] Article 210 includes a heating device. The heating device includes a heating element 236. The heating element 236 contains a heating material. The heating element 236 is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. In an embodiment, the heating element 236 is a heating layer. In an embodiment, article 210 may not have a heating device, and the heating device may be provided in the aerosol supply device 100.

[0178] Heating element 236 is included in corrugated sheet material 218. Corrugated sheet material 218 defines heating element 236. Corrugated sheet material 218 includes a support layer 238 and a heating layer 240. Support layer 238 may be omitted, such that the heating material forms a support. In embodiments, heating element 236 may additionally or alternatively be included in one or more of first sheet material 214 and second sheet material 216.

[0179] In this embodiment, the heating element 236 is a sensor. The article 210 includes a sensor layer 236. The heating material 240 can be heated by penetration of a changing magnetic field. The sensor layer 236 includes a foil. The sensor layer includes aluminum.

[0180] In an embodiment, the heating element 236 may be a resistance heating element. When installed in the device, the heating element 236 may be heated by receiving power from the power source of the aerosol supply device, for example, from the device connector described above.

[0181] In one embodiment, article 210 may not have a heating device. Article 210 may be heated when it is placed in device 100. Device 100 may include a heating element to heat article 210. Article 210 may be indirectly heated by the heating element.

[0182] In some embodiments, the heating device for the article may have different configurations. In some embodiments, the heating material is located on one or each of the first and second sheet materials 214, 216 in which the corrugated sheet material 218 is disposed. In such embodiments, the aerosol generating material may be a layer on one or each of the first and second sheet materials 214, 216.

[0183] Placing the aerosol-generating material on or adjacent to the heating element 236 can improve the efficiency or rate of heating and aerosol generation. Placing the aerosol-generating material on the corrugated sheet material provides a relatively large aerosol-generating material surface area, which can improve space efficiency. Placing the heating element 236 in the corrugated sheet material 218 instead of in the first or second sheet materials 214, 216 can reduce the temperature of the outer surface of the article 210 after heating, which can allow the user to handle the used article 210 with less or no discomfort shortly after heating.

[0184] In some embodiments, the corrugated sheet material 218 does not contain a heating material. In such embodiments, the corrugated sheet material includes spacers. The corrugated sheet material may be formed of a thermally conductive heating material. The corrugated sheet material may be indirectly heated by the first sheet material 214 and the second sheet material 216, thereby serving as a heating element heated by the first sheet material 214 and the second sheet material 216 as heating elements. In some embodiments, the first sheet material 214, the second sheet material 216, and the corrugated sheet material 218 each contain a heating material. In some embodiments, the corrugated sheet material 218 does not contain an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the first sheet material 214, the second sheet material 216, and the corrugated sheet material 218 each have an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the first sheet material 214 and the second sheet material 216 each do not contain an aerosol-generating material.

[0185] The first sheet material 214 may define a heating element. The first sheet material 214 may include a first support layer and a first heating layer. The first heating layer may be a sensor. The first support layer provides support for the heating layer. The heating material layer may be adjacent to the corrugated layer 218. The heating layer may define an airflow path.

[0186] In some embodiments, the second sheet material 216 may define a heating element. The second sheet material 216 may be substantially the same as the first sheet material 214 having the heating element.

[0187] In some embodiments, the first sheet material 214 and the second sheet material 216 may each include a heating element. The heating element of the first sheet material 214 may be a first heating element. The heating element of the second sheet material may be a second heating element. The first heating element and the second heating element are separated by a corrugated layer 218. An aerosol-generating material may be located on the first sheet material 214. An aerosol-generating material may be located on the second sheet material.

[0188] The support layer 238 of the corrugated sheet material 218 can form the inner panel. The support layers of the first and second sheet materials can form the first and second outer panels. In some embodiments, the article 210 may include any heating element configuration. The aerosol generating material may include any sheet material defining an airflow path. The aerosol generating material may be located on the inner panel. The aerosol generating material may be located on the first and second outer panels. The aerosol generating material may be located on both the inner and outer panels.

[0189] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 This describes another embodiment of article 510. This arrangement is different from that described above. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The described arrangements are largely the same, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted. In this embodiment, the arrangement of the laminated structure differs and is formed by different numbers of planar sheet materials and corrugated sheet materials. Configuration combinations of each of the planar sheet materials and corrugated sheet materials described above may be relevant here. Figure 6 An exploded view of article 510 is shown. Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of article 510 is shown. Article 510 includes a first corrugated sheet material 518 and a second corrugated sheet material 519. The first corrugated sheet material 518 and the second corrugated sheet material 519 each include a plurality of corrugations. The number of corrugations may be different.

[0190] A first airflow path 546 is defined by a first corrugated sheet material 518. A second airflow path 548 is defined by a second corrugated sheet material 519. The corrugations of the first corrugated sheet material 518 extend parallel to the first airflow path 546. The corrugations of the second corrugated sheet material 519 extend parallel to the second airflow path 548. The first corrugated sheet material 518 defines a heating element 536. The first corrugated sheet material 518 may include a support layer and a heating material layer located on the support layer.

[0191] In some embodiments, the corrugations of the first corrugated sheet material 518 may extend perpendicular to the first airflow path 546. The first corrugated sheet material 518 and the second corrugated sheet material 519 may include a plurality of holes. The first airflow path 546 may extend through the plurality of holes. The second corrugated sheet material 519 may have the same configuration as the first corrugated sheet material 518. In other embodiments, the first corrugated sheet material 518 and the second corrugated sheet material 519 may have different configurations.

[0192] When inserted into the aerosol supply device 100, the article 510 can be compressed. At least one of the first corrugated sheet material 518 and the second corrugated sheet material 519 provides structural elasticity to the article 510 and allows it to be compressed. Compression can occur in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the corrugated sheet materials 518, 519. Compression of the article 510 may result in a reduction in the dimensions of at least one of the first airflow path 546 and the second airflow path 548, which may increase airflow resistance in the article 510, thereby resulting in an increased pressure drop of the airflow through the article 510 relative to its uncompressed state.

[0193] The dimensions of the heating zone 105 (such as the neutral distance between the first member 130 and the second member 140 (in the absence of article 510)) and the compressibility of article 510 can be selected to provide a desired pressure drop through article 510 in use. In some embodiments, the increase in pressure drop through article 510 when inserted into and compressed within the heating zone 105 relative to the pressure drop through article 510 when uncompressed (e.g., outside the heating zone 105) can be greater than 5%, greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 70%, or greater than 100%.

[0194] Article 510 includes an intermediate sheet material 542 sandwiched between a first corrugated sheet material 518 and a second corrugated sheet material 519. A first outer planar sheet material 514 is adjacent to the first corrugated sheet material 518. A second outer planar sheet material 516 is adjacent to the second corrugated sheet material 519. The first corrugated sheet material 518 is located between the first outer planar sheet material 514 and the intermediate sheet material 542. The second corrugated sheet material 519 is located between the second outer planar sheet material 516 and the intermediate sheet material 542. The first outer planar sheet material 514 and the second outer planar sheet material 516 are... Figure 4 The implementation methods are basically the same. Figure 6 In this embodiment, the intermediate sheet material 542 defines a heating element 544. The heating element 544 of the intermediate sheet material 542 may be similar to any heating element previously described.

[0195] The intermediate sheet material 542 is planar. The intermediate sheet material 542 is sandwiched between the first corrugated sheet material 518 and the second corrugated sheet material 519. The intermediate sheet material 542 separates the first corrugated sheet material 518 and the second corrugated sheet material 519. A first airflow path 546 is at least partially defined by a first outer planar sheet material 514. The first airflow path 546 is at least partially defined by the intermediate sheet material 542. A second airflow path 548 is at least partially defined by a second outer planar sheet material 516. The second airflow path 548 is at least partially defined by the intermediate sheet material 542. A first aerosol generating material is disposed on the first corrugated sheet material 518. A second aerosol generating material is disposed on the second corrugated sheet material 519. In some embodiments, the first aerosol generating material and the second aerosol generating material may be formed of the same material. In some embodiments, the first aerosol generating material and the second aerosol generating material may be formed of different materials. The first aerosol generating material and the second aerosol generating material can provide users with different experiences, such as different flavors. In some embodiments, the first airflow path 546 and the second airflow path 548 can be a single fluid channel. The first corrugated sheet material 518 and the second corrugated sheet material 519 can define at least a portion of the single fluid channel.

[0196] refer to Figure 8 Another embodiment of article 410 is described below. Aerosol-forming article 410 can be used with... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Used together with the aerosol supply device 100.

[0197] Article 410 includes a first sheet material 414 and a second sheet material 416 arranged as planar sheet materials, and a corrugated sheet material 418, similar to the reference. Figure 2 The described embodiment. Article 410 includes an airflow path 432. Article 410 also includes a first receptor layer 450 and a second receptor layer 452. The first receptor layer 450 is adjacent to a first sheet material 414. The first receptor layer 450 includes a first edge 454 and a second edge 456. The first edge 454 and the second edge 456 are located on opposite sides of the first receptor layer 450. The first edge 454 and the second edge 456 extend parallel to the airflow path 432. The first edge 454 and the second edge 456 are deformable edges. The deformable edges contact the first sheet material 414. The deformable edges serve as spacers.

[0198] Airflow path 432 is a first airflow path, and article 410 also includes a second airflow path 458. At least a portion of the second airflow path 458 is located outside the first sheet material 414. A first receptor layer 450 defines at least a portion of the second airflow path 458. The first sheet material 414 defines the second airflow path 458. The second airflow path 458 extends between the first sheet material 414 and the first receptor layer 450.

[0199] The first sensor layer 450 comprises aluminum. The first sensor layer 450 comprises foil. The first sensor layer 450 contains a heating material. This heating material can be heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field.

[0200] The second receptor layer 452 is adjacent to the second sheet material 416. The second receptor layer 452 includes a first edge 468 and a second edge 470. The first edge 468 and the second edge 470 are located on opposite sides of the first receptor layer 450. The first edge 468 and the second edge 470 extend parallel to the airflow path 432. The first edge 468 and the second edge 470 are deformable edges. The deformable edges contact the second sheet material 416. The deformable edges serve as spacers. The configuration of the second receptor layer 452 is substantially the same as that of the first receptor layer 450.

[0201] Article 410 also includes a third airflow path 460. A second receptor layer 452 defines at least a portion of the third airflow path 460. A second sheet material 416 defines at least a portion of the third airflow path 460. The third airflow path 460 extends between the second sheet material 416 and the second receptor layer 452. The first sheet material 414 and the second sheet material 416 include a plurality of perforations 462. The plurality of perforations 462 provide fluid passages between the first airflow path 432 and the second airflow path 458 and the third airflow path 460. In some embodiments, article 410 may include any number of receptor layers, including a case of only one. In some embodiments, article 410 may include any number of perforations 462, including a case of only one.

[0202] When inserted into the aerosol supply device 100, the article 410 can be compressed. The corrugated sheet material 418 provides structural elasticity to the article 410 and allows it to be compressed. Compression can occur in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the corrugated sheet material 418. Compression of the article 410 may result in a reduction in the dimensions of at least one of the first airflow path 432, the second airflow path 458, and the third airflow path 460, which may increase airflow resistance in the article 410, thereby resulting in an increased pressure drop of the airflow through the article 410 relative to its uncompressed state.

[0203] The dimensions of the heating zone 105 (such as the neutral distance between the first member 130 and the second member 140 (in the absence of article 410)) and the compressibility of article 410 can be selected to provide a desired pressure drop through article 410 in use. In some embodiments, the increase in pressure drop through article 410 when inserted into and compressed within the heating zone 105 relative to the pressure drop through article 410 when uncompressed (e.g., outside the heating zone 105) can be greater than 5%, greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 70%, or greater than 100%.

[0204] In the example, articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 include a mouthpiece at their proximal ends. In an aerosol supply system 10 that includes aerosol forming articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 and an aerosol supply device 100, the mouthpiece may be disposed in the articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 or in the device 100.

[0205] Articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 can be symmetrical about the midpoint of their longitudinal length. This means that articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 can be smaller and more compact. In addition, articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 can be inserted into the aerosol supply device 100 in more than one orientation, which may be easier for the user.

[0206] In some embodiments, the configurations of articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may differ. Articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may be bent articles. Articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may be bent along a longitudinal axis. Articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may be bent in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may be tubular articles. The layers of articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may not be planar. The layers of articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may be bent. The layers of articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may be tubular. Articles 300, 210, 510, and 410 may be formed into a cylindrical shape. The laminated structure may form a cylindrical shape.

[0207] The various embodiments described herein are presented merely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of implementation and are not exhaustive or / or exclusive samples. 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 scope of its equivalents, and other embodiments may be employed and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or substantially consist of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., which differ from the combinations specifically described herein. 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: A first component and a second component define a heating zone between the first component and the second component, the heating zone being arranged to receive at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol-generating material. The first component is movable relative to the second component, and the first component and the second component are arranged to clamp the article in the heating zone; Wherein, the first component is elastic; and Wherein, one or each of the first component and the second component includes at least a portion of a magnetic field generator, the magnetic field generator being used to generate a changing magnetic field for heating the aerosol generating material when the portion of the article is located in the heating zone.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The first component includes at least a portion of the magnetic field generator.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least a portion of the magnetic field generator includes an inductor coil.

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein, The inductor coil is planar.

5. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The inductor coil is flexible.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, At least one of the first component and the second component includes a support member, and wherein the inductor coil is coupled to the support member.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The first and second components are arranged such that they are pushed away from each other by inserting the article into the heating zone.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The first component and the second component are arranged to compress at least a portion of the article.

9. An aerosol supply device, comprising: A first component and a second component define a heating zone between the first component and the second component, the heating zone being arranged to receive a planar article containing an aerosol-generating material. The first component is movable relative to the second component; the first component and the second component are arranged to clamp the planar article in the heating zone, and the first component is elastic.

10. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9, comprising a flared portion configured to cause deformation of the first member when the article is inserted into the heating zone.

11. An aerosol supply system, comprising: The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10; And products containing aerosol-generating materials.

12. The aerosol supply system according to claim 11, wherein, The article is substantially flat.

13. The aerosol supply system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The product includes a heating element.

14. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The product comprises corrugated sheet material.

15. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 11 to 14, comprising a first sheet material; a second sheet material; and a corrugated sheet material located between the first sheet material and the second sheet material.

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