Aerosol delivery system

Abstract

An aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generator comprising a filament sealed in a capsule, the capsule containing an inert gas.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to nicotine delivery systems. BACKGROUND

[0002] Aerosol delivery systems such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) typically contain an aerosol generating material, for example a solid or liquid source chamber containing an active substance and / or a flavourant, from which an aerosol or vapour for inhalation by a user is generated, for example by thermal aerosolisation. Accordingly, an aerosol delivery system will typically comprise an aerosol generating region containing an aerosol generator, for example a heating element, arranged to aerosolise or vapourise a portion of the precursor material to generate a vapour or aerosol in the aerosol generating region. When a user draws on the device and electrical power is supplied to the vapouriser, air is drawn into the device through an inlet hole and along an air inlet passage connected to the aerosol generating region, where it mixes with the aerosolised precursor material to form a condensed aerosol. There is an outlet passage connecting the aerosol generating region to an outlet in a mouthpiece, and when a user draws on the mouthpiece, the air drawn into the aerosol generating region continues along the outlet flow path to the mouthpiece outlet, carrying the aerosol with it, for inhalation by the user. Some electronic cigarettes can also comprise a flavour element in the airflow path through the device to impart additional flavour. Such devices can sometimes be referred to as hybrid devices, and the flavour element may, for example, comprise a portion of tobacco arranged in the airflow path between the aerosol generating region and the mouthpiece, so that the aerosol / condensed aerosol drawn through the device passes through the portion of tobacco before exiting the mouthpiece for inhalation by the user.

[0003] It is of interest to develop improved aerosol generators that offer advantages, for example increased service life and cleanability, relative to existing aerosol generators. SUMMARY

[0004] According to a first aspect, there is provided an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generator comprising a filament sealed in an envelope, the envelope containing an inert gas.

[0005] In some examples, the aerosol generator comprises an incandescent lamp, for example a halogen lamp.

[0006] In some examples, the aerosol delivery system comprises a carrier for delivering the aerosol generating material to the aerosol generator in use.

[0007] In some instances, the aerosol generating material or carrier is in direct contact with the hermetically sealed blister during use. In some instances, the aerosol generating material or carrier is in direct contact with one or more sides and / or one or more end faces of the hermetically sealed blister.

[0008] In some instances, the aerosol delivery system includes a reflector. In some instances, the reflector substantially surrounds at least a sealed bubble housing the filament. In some instances, in use, the reflector substantially surrounds both the sealed bubble housing the filament and the aerosol generating material or carrier. In some instances, the reflector includes a reflective housing configured to receive the carrier and / or aerosol generating material.

[0009] In some instances, the aerosol delivery system includes an airflow path located between the carrier and the sealed bubble, which is used to entrain atomized gas generated by the aerosol generator during use.

[0010] In some instances, aerosol delivery systems include controllers, power supplies, and / or aerosol-generating materials.

[0011] In some instances, the aerosol delivery system includes a sensor configured to measure light levels, radiation levels, and / or color temperature.

[0012] In some instances, the aerosol delivery system includes a photovoltaic cell configured to generate electricity from radiation produced by a filament.

[0013] In some instances, aerosol delivery systems include a transparent or translucent viewing window used to transmit light from the filament to the user.

[0014] In some instances, the aerosol delivery system is configured to receive removable cartridges containing aerosol-generating materials.

[0015] In some instances, an aerosol delivery system is or includes a smoke cartridge containing an aerosol generator and aerosol-generating materials. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery system; Figures 2 to 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and Figure 8 It is a graph showing the temperature change over time for a set of three halogen bulbs in two different configurations. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments can be implemented in a conventional manner, and are not described in detail for the sake of brevity. It will therefore be appreciated that aspects and features of the apparatuses and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented in accordance with any suitable conventional techniques.

[0018] The claimed invention can generally provide a sub-assembly or sub-system suitable for use in or configured for use in an aerosol delivery system. The sub-system can generally form part of an aerosol delivery system, and in particular can form part of a reusable device and / or consumable cartridge of a two-part system. In general, the present disclosure outlines an aerosol delivery sub-system / system comprising an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol generator comprises a filament sealed in a capsule, the capsule containing an inert gas.

[0019] The claimed invention advantageously provides a compact and more durable aerosol generator that can be more easily provided in either part of a two-part system (comprising a reusable device part and a replaceable consumable cartridge), or likewise in a one-part system, in particular a one-part system having a refillable reservoir of aerosol generating material. Positioning the aerosol generator in the reusable device part advantageously extends the useful life and reduces material usage. The aerosol generator can also be more easily cleaned and / or replaced.

[0020] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view through an example aerosol delivery system 1 providing an introduction to a two-part aerosol delivery system, components therein, and their functionality.

[0021] The aerosol delivery system 1 comprises two main parts, namely a reusable part 2 and a replaceable / one-time consumable cartridge part 4. In normal use, the reusable part 2 and the cartridge part 4 are releasably coupled together at an interface 6. When the cartridge part 4 is exhausted or the user simply wishes to switch to a different cartridge part 4, the cartridge part 4 can be removed from the reusable part 2 and a replacement cartridge part 4 installed in its place to the reusable part 2. The interface 6 provides structural, electrical and airflow path connections between the two parts 2, 4, and can be established in accordance with conventional techniques, for example based on threading, magnetism or bayonet fixing, with suitably arranged electrical contacts and openings to establish electrical connections and airflow paths as appropriate between the two parts 2, 4. The specific manner in which the cartridge part 4 is mechanically installed to the reusable part 2 is not material to the principles herein, but for the purposes of a specific example it is assumed here to comprise a magnetic coupling (as is common in the art) Figure 1(Not shown in the text). It will also be understood that in some embodiments, interface 6 may not support electrical and / or airflow path connections between the respective portions 2 and 4. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator may be located in the reusable portion 2 instead of the cartridge portion 4, or the power transmission from the reusable portion 2 to the cartridge portion 4 may be wireless (e.g., based on electromagnetic induction), thus eliminating the need for an electrical connection between the reusable portion 2 and the cartridge portion 4. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the airflow through the e-cigarette may not pass through the reusable portion 2, thus eliminating the need for an airflow path connection between the reusable portion 2 and the cartridge portion 4. In some cases, when portions of the reusable portion 2 and the cartridge portion 4 are coupled together for use, a portion of the airflow path may be limited at the interface between these portions.

[0022] In some implementations, the cartridge / consumable portion 4 may be largely conventional. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the cartridge portion 4 includes a cartridge shell 42 made of plastic material. The cartridge shell 42 supports other components of the cartridge portion 4 and provides a mechanical interface 6 with the reusable portion 2. The cartridge shell 42 is generally circularly symmetrical about a longitudinal axis along which the cartridge portion 4 is connected to the reusable portion 2. In this example, the cartridge portion 4 has a length of approximately 4 cm and a diameter of approximately 1.5 cm. However, the specific geometry, overall shape, and materials used can vary.

[0023] The cartridge casing 42 contains a chamber or reservoir 44 containing aerosol-generating materials. Figure 1 In this example, the reservoir 44 stores a supply of liquid aerosol generating material. In this example, the liquid reservoir 44 has an annular shape, its outer wall defined by the cartridge shell 42, and its inner wall defining an airflow path 52 through the cartridge portion 4. The reservoir 44 is closed at each end by end walls to contain the aerosol generating material. The reservoir 44 can be formed according to conventional techniques; for example, it can comprise a plastic material and be integrally molded with the cartridge shell 42.

[0024] The cartridge / consumable part 4 also includes an aerosol generator 48, located near the end of the reservoir 44 opposite the mouthpiece outlet 50. It will be understood that, as in... Figure 1In the two-part system shown, the aerosol generator 48 can be located in either the reusable portion 2 or the cartridge portion 4. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator 48 (e.g., a heater, which can take the form of a wick and coil arrangement as shown) can be included in the reusable portion 2, and when the cartridge portion 4 is engaged with the reusable portion 2, the aerosol generator 48 is brought into proximity with a portion of aerosol-generating material in the cartridge portion 4. In such embodiments, the cartridge portion 4 can include a portion of aerosol-generating material, and when the cartridge portion 4 is engaged with the reusable portion 2, the aerosol generator 48, including the heater, is at least partially inserted into or at least partially surrounds the portion of aerosol-generating material.

[0025] Although Figure 1 Not shown in the Figures, embodiments of the present application relate to aerosol generators and aerosol delivery systems that include a filament sealed in a bulb that contains an inert gas, similar to an incandescent lamp, as described further later.

[0026] In Figure 1 In the example shown, the carrier in the form of the wick 46 that is in contact with the aerosol generator 48 extends laterally across the cartridge airflow path 52, with its ends extending into the reservoir 44 of liquid aerosol-generating material through openings in the inner wall of the reservoir 44. The openings in the inner wall of the reservoir 44 are sized to substantially match the size of the wick 46 to provide a reasonable seal against leakage from the liquid reservoir 44 into the cartridge airflow path without unduly compressing the wick 46, as undue compression can be detrimental to its fluid transport properties.

[0027] The wick 46 and the aerosol generator 48 are arranged in the cartridge airflow path 52 such that the region of the cartridge airflow path 52 surrounding the wick 46 and the heater 48 effectively defines an atomization region of the cartridge portion 4. The aerosol-generating material in the reservoir 44 wicks into the wick 46 through the ends of the wick that extend into the reservoir 44 and is drawn along the wick by surface tension / capillary action (i.e., wicking). The aerosol generator 48 in this example includes a resistive wire that is wrapped around the wick 46. In Figure 1 In the example shown, the heater 48 includes a nichrome (Cr20Ni80) wire, and the wick 46 includes a bundle of glass fibers, although the specific aerosol generator configuration is not critical to the principles herein. In use, the aerosol generator 48 can be supplied with electrical power to atomize a quantity of aerosol-generating material (aerosol-generating material) drawn into proximity with the aerosol generator 48 by the wick 46. The atomized aerosol-generating material can then be entrained in air drawn along the cartridge airflow path from the atomization region toward the mouthpiece outlet 50 for inhalation by a user.

[0028] As above, the rate at which the aerosol generating material is aerosolised by the aerosol generator 48 will depend on the amount (level) of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48. Thus, power can be applied to the aerosol generator 48 to selectively generate aerosol from the aerosol generating material in the cartridge portion 4, and in addition, the rate of aerosol generation can be varied by varying the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48, for example by pulse width and / or frequency modulation techniques.

[0029] The reusable portion 2 comprises an outer housing 12 having an opening defining an air inlet 28 of the electronic cigarette, a power supply 26 (e.g. a battery) for providing operating power for the electronic cigarette, a control circuit / controller 22 for controlling and monitoring operation of the electronic cigarette, a first user input button 14, a second user input button 16, and a visual display 24.

[0030] The outer housing 12 can be made, for example, from a plastics or metal material, and in the present example has a circular cross-section generally conforming to the shape and dimensions of the cartridge portion 4 so as to provide a smooth transition between the two portions 2, 4 at the interface 6. In the present example, the reusable portion 2 has a length of about 8 cm, so that the overall length of the electronic cigarette when the cartridge portion 4 and the reusable portion 2 are coupled together is about 12 cm.

[0031] The air inlet 28 is connected to an airflow path 51 through the reusable portion 2. When the reusable portion 2 and the cartridge portion 4 are connected together, the reusable portion airflow path 51 in turn connects to the cartridge airflow path 52 across the interface 6. Thus, when a user draws on the mouthpiece opening 50, air is drawn in through the air inlet 28, along the reusable portion airflow path 51, across the interface 6, through the aerosol generating region adjacent the aerosol generator 48 (wherein aerosolised aerosol generating material is entrained in the airflow), along the cartridge airflow path 52, and out through the mouthpiece opening 50 for inhalation by the user.

[0032] The power supply 26 in the present example is rechargeable, and can be of a conventional type, for example of a type commonly used in electronic cigarettes and other applications requiring the provision of relatively large currents over relatively short periods of time. The power supply 26 can be recharged through a charging connector (e.g. a USB connector) in the reusable portion housing 12.

[0033] Optionally, first and / or second user input buttons 14, 16 can be provided, which in the present example are conventional mechanical buttons, e.g. comprising spring-mounted components which can be pressed by a user to establish an electrical contact. In this regard, the input buttons can be regarded as input devices for detecting user input, and the specific implementation of the buttons is not important. The buttons can be assigned to functions such as switching the aerosol delivery system 1 on and off, and adjusting user settings such as the power to be supplied from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48.

[0034] A display 24 can be provided to give the user a visual indication of various properties associated with the aerosol delivery system, e.g. current power setting information, remaining power supply charge, etc. The display can be implemented in various ways. In the present example, the display 24 comprises a conventional pixelated LCD screen which can be driven to display the required information in accordance with conventional techniques. In other embodiments, the display can comprise one or more discrete indicators, e.g. LEDs, which are arranged to display the required information, e.g. by specific colour and / or flashing sequence. More generally, the manner in which the display 24 is provided and the manner in which information is displayed to the user using the display is not important to the principles herein. For example, some embodiments can not comprise a visual display and / or can comprise other means for providing information to the user relating to operating properties of the aerosol delivery system, e.g. using audio signals, or can not comprise any means for providing information to the user relating to operating properties of the aerosol delivery system.

[0035] The controller 22 is suitably configured / programmed to control operation of the aerosol delivery system 1 to provide the functionality as outlined herein, and to provide conventional operating functionality of the aerosol delivery system 1. The controller (processor circuitry) 22 can be regarded as logically comprising various sub-units / circuit elements associated with different aspects of the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1. In the present example, the controller 22 comprises a power supply control circuit for controlling the supply of electrical power from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48 in response to user input, a user programming circuit 20 for establishing configuration settings (e.g. user-defined power settings) in response to user input, and other functional units / circuits having associated functionality in accordance with the principles herein and conventional operating aspects of an electronic cigarette, e.g. display drive circuitry and user input detection circuitry. The functionality of the controller 22 can be provided in various different ways, e.g. using one or more suitably programmed programmable computers and / or one or more suitably constructed application-specific integrated circuits / circuitry / chips / chipsets.

[0036] The controller 22 can comprise an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or microcontroller for controlling the aerosol delivery device. The microcontroller or ASIC can comprise a CPU or microprocessor. The operation of the CPU and other electronic components is generally controlled at least in part by software programs running on the CPU (or other components). Such software programs can be stored in a non-volatile memory, such as a ROM, which can be integrated into the microcontroller itself or provided as a separate component. The CPU can access the ROM to load and execute individual software programs as required.

[0037] The reusable portion 2 includes an airflow sensor 30, which is electrically connected to the controller 22. In most embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 comprises a so-called “puff sensor”, as the airflow sensor 30 is used to detect when a user is puffing on the device. In some embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 comprises a switch in the electrical path that provides electrical power from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48. In such embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 typically comprises a pressure sensor configured to close the switch when subjected to a particular pressure range, thereby enabling current flow from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48 when the pressure in the vicinity of the airflow sensor 30 falls below a threshold value. The threshold value can be set to a value determined by experimentation to correspond to a characteristic value associated with the start of a user puff. In other embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 is connected to the controller 22, and the controller dispenses electrical power from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48 in dependence on a signal received by the controller 22 from the airflow sensor 30. The specific manner in which the controller 22 controls the supply of electrical power from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48 using the signal output from the airflow sensor 30, which can comprise a measurement by the controller 22 of the capacitance, resistance or other characteristic of the airflow sensor, can be implemented according to any method known to the person skilled in the art.

[0038] In the example shown, the airflow sensor 30 is mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) 31, although this is not essential. The airflow sensor 30 can comprise any sensor configured to determine a characteristic of the airflow in the airflow path 51 disposed between the air inlet 28 and the mouthpiece opening 50, such as a pressure sensor or transducer (e.g. a diaphragm or solid state pressure sensor), a combined temperature and pressure sensor, or a microphone (e.g. an electret type microphone) that is sensitive to changes in air pressure, including acoustic signals. The airflow sensor 30 is located within a sensor cavity or chamber 32, which comprises an interior space defined by one or more chamber walls 34. The sensor cavity 32 comprises an area within the one or more chamber walls 34 in which the airflow sensor 30 can be located wholly or partially. In some embodiments, the PCB 31 comprises one of the chamber walls of a sensor housing, which comprises the sensor chamber / cavity 32. Figure 1 In the example shown, the airflow sensor 30 is mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) 31, although this is not essential. The airflow sensor 30 can comprise any sensor configured to determine a characteristic of the airflow in the airflow path 51 disposed between the air inlet 28 and the mouthpiece opening 50, such as a pressure sensor or transducer (e.g. a diaphragm or solid state pressure sensor), a combined temperature and pressure sensor, or a microphone (e.g. an electret type microphone) that is sensitive to changes in air pressure, including acoustic signals. The airflow sensor 30 is located within a sensor cavity or chamber 32, which comprises an interior space defined by one or more chamber walls 34. The sensor cavity 32 comprises an area within the one or more chamber walls 34 in which the airflow sensor 30 can be located wholly or partially. In some embodiments, the PCB 31 comprises one of the chamber walls of a sensor housing, which comprises the sensor chamber / cavity 32.

[0039] The deformable membrane is disposed across an opening that communicates between a sensor cavity 32 containing the sensor 30 and a portion of the airflow path disposed between the air inlet 28 and the mouthpiece opening 50. The deformable membrane covers the opening and is attached to one or more of the chamber walls according to the methods described further herein.

[0040] As described further herein, the aerosol delivery system 1 comprises a communication circuit configured to enable a connection to be established with one or more further electronic devices (e.g. a storage / charging case and / or a replenishment / charging station) to enable data transfer between the aerosol delivery system 1 and the further electronic device(s). In some embodiments, the communication circuit is integrated into the controller 22, while in other embodiments it is implemented separately. For example, the communication circuit can comprise a module separate from the controller 22 which provides dedicated data transfer functionality for the aerosol delivery device while connected to the controller 22. In some embodiments, the communication circuit is configured to support communication between the aerosol delivery system 1 and one or more further electronic devices via a wireless interface. The communication circuit can be configured to support wireless communication between the aerosol delivery system 1 and other electronic devices such as a case, a station, a computing device (e.g. a smartphone or PC), a base station supporting cellular communication, a relay node providing a forward connection to a base station, a wearable device, or any other portable or fixed device supporting wireless communication.

[0041] The controller 22, other components within the system 1, and other devices / systems can comprise one or more processors, and data processing steps can be performed on any of these processors or on a remote processor, with data being transferred by wire or wirelessly.

[0042] Wireless communication between the aerosol delivery system 1 and further electronic devices can be structured in accordance with a data transfer protocol such as Bluetooth®, ZigBee, WiFi®, Wi-Fi Direct, GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, NFC, RFID, or generally any other wireless and / or wired network protocol or interface. The communication circuit can comprise any suitable interface for a wired data connection such as a USB-C, micro-USB or Thunderbolt interface, and can comprise a pin or contact pad arrangement structured to engage with a mating pin or contact pad on a station, case, cable or other external device connectable to the aerosol delivery system 1.

[0043] As outlined above, embodiments of the present application relate to aerosol generators and aerosol delivery systems that include a filament sealed in a bulb, the bulb containing an inert gas and optionally a halogen gas. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator includes an incandescent lamp, such as a halogen lamp.

[0044] As background, incandescent lamps generally include a terminal 48a for supplying electrical power to a filament 48c, e.g., including tungsten, housed in a sealed (e.g., glass) bulb or envelope 48d filled with an inert gas, through a lamp base 48b. In the case of halogen lamps, the gas in the sealed bulb 48d includes a small amount of a halogen gas, such as iodine or bromine. The bulb 48d protects the tungsten filament 48c and confines halogen recycling reactions that occur during use to its interior, thereby redepositing evaporated tungsten back onto the filament 48c, improving its useful life and minimizing the impact on the transparency of the bulb 48d. In embodiments, other filament materials can be used.

[0045] The aerosol generator 48 is configured to generate an atomized gas / aerosol from an aerosol generating material, which can generally be in the form of a solid or a liquid, for inhalation by a user. In some examples, the liquid aerosol generating material is delivered to the aerosol generator 48 via a carrier 46, such as a wick, which can be a standard cotton wick (optionally supplied from a reservoir). In other examples, the carrier 46 includes a mesh, which is more easily cleaned than a cotton wick, can be appropriately sized to generate a desired aerosol particle size, and can be replaceable.

[0046] In some examples, the aerosol generating material or the carrier 46 containing / delivering the aerosol generating material is in direct contact with the sealed bulb 48d or, more generally, the aerosol generator or lamp (e.g., the lamp base 48b) in use, while in other examples they are not in direct contact. More specifically, the aerosol generating material or the carrier 46 can be in direct contact with the sealed bulb 48d or the aerosol generator / lamp on one or more side faces and / or one or more end faces. In particular, the contact can be proximate to the sealed bulb 48d, e.g., aligned with the filament 48c, to maximize heat transfer with the assistance of conduction. However, in other examples, the aerosol generating material or the carrier 46 can be spaced apart from the sealed bulb 48d or the aerosol generator / lamp, thereby avoiding direct conduction, to reduce the risk of burning the aerosol generating material or the carrier 46 and / or the risk of contaminating the surface of the sealed bulb 48d, which over time can compromise the integrity of the sealed bulb (e.g., depending on the material used), and thus the cleaning frequency can also be reduced by this spaced apart arrangement. However, the aerosol generator 48 including the sealed bulb 48d surrounding the filament 48c is more easily cleaned than existing aerosol generators.

[0047] In some examples, the system 1 includes a reflector 45. The reflector 45 can substantially enclose or surround: at least the sealed bulb 48d, i.e. the radiation portion, which houses the filament 48c; or both the sealed bulb 48d and the aerosol generating material or carrier 46 (which contains the aerosol generating material). The reflector 45 itself can take any form, for example including a reflective material, reflective surface or reflective coating. Examples of suitable materials include metals, such as aluminium, silver and gold, and can include a foil, painted or polished surface. In some examples, the reflector 45 includes a reflective housing configured to receive the carrier 46 and / or aerosol generating material. The reflector 45 can advantageously focus the generated radiation onto the aerosol generating material to shorten the time to generate an aerosol, reducing energy wastage.

[0048] In some examples, the system 1 includes an airflow path between the carrier 46 and the sealed bulb 48d for entraining atomised air generated by the aerosol generator 48 in use. In some examples, the system 1 includes a sensor configured to indicate the temperature of the aerosol generator 48. The temperature of the aerosol generator 48 can be determined and / or controlled by the controller 22. In some examples, the sensor is configured to measure the light level, radiation level and / or colour temperature of the filament 48c.

[0049] In some examples, the system 1 includes a controller 22 which can respond to the sensor and / or user input. In some examples, the controller 22 can be configured to receive input from the sensor and / or an indication of a user puff on the system 1 and control the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 in response to the input. In some examples, the controller 22 can be configured to receive user input and control the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 in response to the input.

[0050] In some examples, the system 1 includes a photovoltaic cell configured to generate electrical power from the radiation produced by the filament 48c, which can advantageously be used to recharge the power supply 26 in use. In some examples, the system 1 includes a transparent or translucent viewing window for transmitting light from the filament 48c to a user, advantageously indicating that the aerosol generator 48 is active.

[0051] Figure 1 An aerosol delivery system 1 is shown, including an aerosol generator 48 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol generator 48 includes a terminal 48a for supplying electrical power to a filament 48c through a (rectangular) lamp holder 48b, the filament being sealed and enclosed in an elliptical glass bulb 48d filled with an inert gas.

[0052] Figures 2 to 5Different positioning arrangements of the aerosol generating material / carrier 46 (in some examples for containing aerosol generating material) relative to the aerosol generator 48, more specifically relative to the filament 48c, are shown. For clarity, Figures 2 to 5 Sub-components of the aerosol generator are not shown in detail. Although Figures 3 to 5 A carrier 46 for holding aerosol generating material is shown in

[0053] In Figures 2 to 5 In this example, the carrier 46 is in direct contact with the sealed bulb 48d, which is located on a single side of the bulb 48d relative to the axial end of the bulb 48d, along the side surface of the bulb 48d proximate to the filament 48c itself, which generates heat and light. In Figure 2 In this example, the carrier 46 is shown as being located on a single side / surface of the sealed bulb 48d, extending generally along the profile of the sealed bulb, but not extending around the end face of the sealed bulb 48d. As the carrier 46 holds aerosol generating material, this provides close proximity between the material and the filament 48c to maximise aerosol generation efficiency. As outlined above, the carrier 46 can optionally be omitted to provide direct contact with the aerosol generating material, which can for example be a solid or gel deposited on the sealed bulb 48d.

[0054] Figure 2 The same arrangement as Figure 3 is shown, but additionally including a conical (here frusto-conical) reflector 45, which surrounds and is spaced apart from the sealed bulb 48d, extending over the entire axial length of the bulb 48d and a portion of the lamp base 48b to maximise reflection of the generated radiation from the filament 48c onto the carrier 46. In contrast to a halogen spotlight having a conical reflector including an open widest end to provide a diffuse light beam, the reflector 45 can substantially enclose the sealed bulb 48d holding at least the filament 48c. As Figure 2 shown, the reflector 45 can optionally additionally enclose the carrier 46 and / or aerosol generating material to reflect the generated radiation onto the carrier 46. However, although the reflector 45 can substantially enclose the carrier 46 and / or aerosol generating material, an aerosol flow path (e.g. an opening such as an aperture, a slit or a permeable surface) is provided to allow the generated aerosol to exit the enclosure and be inhaled by a user.

[0055] Figure 3 A foil wrapped reflector 45 in the form of a globe is shown, which extends from the lamp base 48b and substantially encloses the sealed bulb 48d, extending along the profile of the bulb 48d and covering / encircling the entire bulb 48d to maximise reflection of the generated radiation. Unlike Figure 4 in which the carrier 46 is in direct contact with the aerosol generator 48, inFigures 2 to 3 In the example of Figure 4, the reflector 45 is in direct contact with the aerosol generator 48 - the reflector 45 surrounds and encloses the sealed capsule 48d, and the carrier 46 is in direct contact with the reflector 45.

[0056] Although Figure 4 In the example of Figure 4, the aerosol generating material and / or carrier 46 extends around the entire perimeter, circumference and / or outer surface of the sealed capsule 48d (unlike the reflector 45), but these configurations are envisaged as unillustrated variants. Additionally, in other examples, the aerosol generating material and / or carrier 46 can be in direct contact with the aerosol generator 48 beneath the reflector 45 (as in the example of Figure 3), i.e. the reflector 45 can enclose at least part of the aerosol generator 48 (e.g. the sealed capsule 48d) and the aerosol generating material and / or carrier 46. The described Figure 4 examples and variants of Figure 4 provide a more compact and more efficient arrangement than the examples and variants of Figure 3. In particular, the provision of a reflector 45 which substantially encloses the sealed capsule 48d is significantly advantageous compared to the arrangements of Figures 1 and 2 - significantly reducing the pre-heat time of the aerosol generator, which shortens the time to generate an aerosol. Performance comparisons between foil-wrapped reflectors and open bulb are shown in Figure 5, and discussed below. Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 3 Figure 2 The arrangement of Figure 4 shows a reflector 45 which is substantially annular (rectangular in cross-section), which substantially encloses the sealed capsule 48d of the aerosol generator 48, extending around / enclosing the circumference of the capsule over its entire axial length, to maximise the reflection of the generated radiation onto the carrier 46, which is located at the open axial end of the capsule 48d. The open end of the capsule 48d allows the generated atomised gas to travel downstream to the mouthpiece for inhalation by a user. In the example of Figure 4, the carrier 46 is in direct contact with the axial end face of the sealed capsule 48d, and extends between the axial ends of the reflector 45. This arrangement is particularly compact in width, easy to assemble, and provides a simple atomised gas / aerosol flow path. Figure 3

[0057] Figure 8 The arrangement of Figure 4 shows a reflector 45 which is substantially annular (rectangular in cross-section), which substantially encloses the sealed capsule 48d of the aerosol generator 48, extending around / enclosing the circumference of the capsule over its entire axial length, to maximise the reflection of the generated radiation onto the carrier 46, which is located at the open axial end of the capsule 48d. The open end of the capsule 48d allows the generated atomised gas to travel downstream to the mouthpiece for inhalation by a user. In the example of Figure 4, the carrier 46 is in direct contact with the axial end face of the sealed capsule 48d, and extends between the axial ends of the Figure 5

[0058] Figure 5 Figure 4 shows a complete two-part aerosol delivery system 1, comprising a reusable part 2 which includes a controller 22 and a power supply 26, and which is removably connected to a replaceable cartridge part 4. The replaceable cartridge part 4 includes two air inlets 28, a reflector 45, an aerosol generator 48, a carrier 46, an annular reservoir 44 of aerosol generating material, and a mouthpiece. In the example of Figure 4, the aerosol generating material and / or carrier 46 extends around Figure 6 ​​​​​In this case, the n-shaped carrier 46 surrounds a sealed bulb 48d that houses a filament 48c, the carrier 46 extending around the entire circumference of the bulb 48d to maximise the contact surface area between the radiation-sealed bulb 48d portion of the aerosol generator 48 and the aerosol-generating material in the carrier 46. The annular reservoir 44 supplies liquid aerosol-generating material to the carrier 46 through an opening. In this example, there is a flow path 53 between the sealed bulb 48d and the carrier 46 to allow incoming air from the air inlet 28 to entrain atomised air generated by the aerosol generator 48 and provide an aerosol to a user at the mouthpiece for inhalation. In other examples, the opening can instead or additionally be provided, for example, in the carrier 46 and / or the reflector 45. In this example, the reflector 45 is in the form of a reflective annular housing 45 that surrounds the lamp holder 48b of the aerosol generator and that surrounds both the carrier 46 and the sealed bulb 48d along their axial extent (i.e. axially between the carrier 46 and the reservoir 44) to maximise reflection onto the carrier 46.

[0059] Figure 6 A further complete two-part aerosol delivery system 1 is shown. Figure 7 The system 1 of Figure 7 is substantially the same as the system of Figure 6 except where noted - in particular, the sub-components in the two parts 2, 4 are different. In Figure 6 the system comprises a reusable part 2 that includes the controller 22, the power supply 26, the two air inlets 28, the reflective housing 45, and the aerosol generator 48. The reusable part 2 is removably connected to a cartridge part 4 that includes the reservoir 44 of aerosol-generating material and the mouthpiece. Positioning the aerosol generator 48 in the reusable part 2 facilitates extending the useful life of the system 1, whereas the cartridge 4 can include the aerosol-generating material (optionally with the reservoir 44 and / or the carrier 46) and the mouthpiece, which should typically be replaced regularly for hygiene. In Figure 7 the reflective housing 45 does not extend axially between the carrier 46 and the reservoir 44 - instead, the walls of the reservoir 44 are reflective to assist in reflecting radiation back onto the carrier 46. In other examples, any internal walls can be suitably reflective.

[0060] In further examples, the system 1 is not a two-part system 1 and the reservoir 44 is refillable to maximise the useful life of the system 1 as a whole. Optionally, the mouthpiece can still be replaceable for hygiene.

[0061] In some examples, the controller 22 is configured to control the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48. The controller 22 can be configured to adjust the supply of power in dependence on the operating temperature of the aerosol generator 48, the aerosol generating material and / or the carrier 46 in use and their arrangement (e.g. whether in direct contact). The system 1 can comprise a sensor for indicating the temperature of the aerosol generator 48, such as a thermocouple or other temperature sensor, or the controller 22 can determine / derive the temperature from a sensor, such as a resistance-based sensor, or a sensor configured to measure light levels (e.g. luminance in lumens using a photodiode), radiation levels (e.g. using a PV cell in W / m2) and / or colour temperature (e.g. in K), which can be a more reliable and / or at a greater distance from the aerosol generating region to indicate the temperature of the filament 48c, increasing the choice of sensor location within the system 1. A thermal model can be used to relate the light / radiation levels or colour temperature of the filament 48c to the temperature of the aerosol generator 48 or aerosol generating material. Advantageously, a PV cell can be used to both measure the radiation level to determine / control the operating temperature and to recharge the power supply 26. 2 Depending on the rated power of the filament / bulb in use (which can typically be 5-50W), the system 1 can need to heat up to an operating temperature sufficient to generate aerosol in a short time period. As the time from inhalation to aerosol generation is typically a measure of importance to the user, the system 1 can have an automatic pre-heat mode based on user behaviour and / or environmental parameters.

[0062] Depending on the rated power of the filament / bulb in use (which can typically be 5-50W), the system 1 can need to heat up to an operating temperature sufficient to generate aerosol in a short time period. As the time from inhalation to aerosol generation is typically a measure of importance to the user, the system 1 can have an automatic pre-heat mode based on user behaviour and / or environmental parameters.

[0063] For example, the system 1 can comprise a controller 22 configured to receive an input from a sensor that pre-judges and / or indicates a puff on the system 1 by a user and to control the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 in response to the input. For example, pre-judgment of a puff can involve detection of a single movement or series of movements using an accelerometer or gyroscope; and / or detection of a single or multiple touches from a user using a capacitive sensor; and / or detection of a change or series of changes in light level or temperature. These interactions of the user with the system 1 can forewarn the system 1 that it is about to be used, and the controller 22 can be configured to automatically start pre-heating in response to this, in contrast to, for example, a puff sensor indicating that a user is starting to puff and activating the aerosol generator 48.

[0064] Alternatively, the system 1 can comprise a manual pre-heat mode, for example comprising a user input such as a pre-heat button, and the controller 22 can be configured to control the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 in response to the input. The pre-heat mode can operate at a different (e.g. higher) power level to the standard aerosol generation mode to minimise the pre-heat time. During a puffing session, when the system 1 is already at operating temperature, a puff pre-judgment or pre-heat feature can not be required, so it can be disabled.

[0065] Figure 7 is a plot of bulb temperature (°C) against time (s) for a group of 3 halogen bulbs including 10W, 20W and 35W rated power in two configurations: i) open / bare bulb without carrier; and ii) bulb wrapped with foil reflector, i.e. as shown in Figure 8 but without carrier 46. As shown in Figure 4 Figure 8 The foil wrapped bulb reaches significantly higher temperatures significantly faster than the open / bare bulb configuration, easily exceeding suitable operating temperatures for generating atomising gas in the 200-250°C range within seconds.

[0066] Various implementations herein are presented to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These implementations are provided as representative examples of implementations and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. Any functionality of a processor (e.g. controller) can be shared between processors on various devices / systems in a wider system and / or between remote servers. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, examples, functions, features, structures and / or other aspects herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the application defined by the claims or on the equivalents of the claims and that other implementations can be utilized and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claimed application.

[0067] Various implementations of the application can suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc. in their presently known and future surrendered forms. In addition, the disclosure can include other inventions now known or to become known that are within the scope of the disclosure. Protection is sought also for any feature of any one or more of the documents cited herein in conjunction with the disclosure disclosed herein.

[0068] As used herein, the term “delivery system” is intended to encompass a system that, in use, delivers at least one substance to a user, and includes: Combustion aerosol provision systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for self-rolled or for self-made cigarettes (whether or not based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes, or other smokable material); Non-combustion aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosol generating material without combusting the aerosol generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosols using combinations of aerosol generating materials; and Aerosol delivery systems, which deliver at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or otherwise without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to lozenges, chewing gum, patches, articles including inhalable powders, and oral products (e.g. oral tobacco including snus or moist snuff), wherein the at least one substance can or can not include nicotine.

[0069] According to the present disclosure, a "combustible" aerosol provision system is an aerosol provision system in which a constituent aerosol generating material of the aerosol provision system (or a component thereof) is combusted or ignited during use in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0070] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol provision system, for example a system selected from the group consisting of a cigarette, a cigarillo and a cigar. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol provision system, for example a filter, a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, an overflow, an aerosol modifier release component (for example a burstable balloon, a thread or a bead), or a paper (for example a plug wrap, a tipping paper or a cigarette paper).

[0071] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol provision system is an aerosol provision system in which a constituent aerosol generating material of the aerosol provision system (or a component thereof) is not combusted or ignited in order to deliver at least one substance to a user.

[0072] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, for example a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vapour cigarette device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not essential. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. One example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0073] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system which uses a combination of aerosol generating materials to generate an aerosol, wherein one or more of the aerosol generating materials can be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials can for example be in the form of a solid, a liquid or a gel, and can or can not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material can comprise for example a tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0074] Generally, a non-combustible aerosol provision system can include a non- combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol generating material and configured for use with a non-combustible aerosol provision device. These consumables are sometimes referred to in the present disclosure as articles.

[0075] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol provision system, for example a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, can include a power source and a controller. The power source can be, for example, an electrical power source or a heat source. In some embodiments, the heat source comprises a carbon base that can be energized to distribute power in the form of heat to aerosol generating material or heat transfer material proximate to the heat source.

[0076] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol provision system can include a region for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating region, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non-combustible aerosol provision device can include aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage region, an aerosol generating material delivery component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating region, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0077] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-aerosol delivery system that delivers at least one substance orally, nasally, transdermally, or in another manner to a user without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to lozenges, chewing gum, patches, articles including inhalable powders, and oral products (e.g., oral tobacco including snuff or moist snuff), where the at least one substance can or can not include nicotine.

[0078] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered can be an aerosol generating material or a material not intended to be aerosolized. As appropriate, either material can include one or more active components, one or more flavorants, one or more aerosol former materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0079] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes an active substance. An active substance as used herein can be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to effect or enhance a physiological response. The active substance can be, for example, selected from a nutritional, a nootropic, a psychoactive substance. The active substance can be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance can include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theophylline, a vitamin (e.g., B6 or B12 or C), melatonin, or a component, derivative, or combination thereof. The active substance can include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco or other plants.

[0080] In some embodiments, the active substance includes nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance includes caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0081] As described herein, the active substance can include or be derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives, or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "plant" includes any material derived from a plant, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husks, hulls, and the like. Alternatively, the material can include active compounds that naturally occur in a plant, which are obtained synthetically. The material can be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, pieces, strips, tablets, and the like.

[0082] Examples of plants are tobacco, eucalyptus, anise, hemp, cacao, anise, lemon grass, peppermint, spearmint, red leaf tea tree, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea (e.g., green tea or black tea), thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, anise (aniseed), basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, cayenne pepper, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, sambucus nigra, vanilla, wintergreen, perilla, turmeric, turmeric root powder, sandalwood, carvi, bergamot, orange flower, myrtle, black currant, valerian, bell pepper, mace, dammar, myrtle, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, parsley, verbena, tarragon, hibiscus, ginseng, theanine, tetramethyluric acid, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, camomile, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. The mint can be selected from the following mint varieties: wild mint, mint cultivar, Egyptian mint, peppermint, lemon spearmint mint cultivar, peppermint cultivar, spearmint, heartleaf spearmint, long leaf mint, lip mint, spearmint cultivar, and apple mint.

[0083] In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives, or extracts thereof, and the plant is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives or extracts thereof, and the plant is selected from eucalyptus, anise, cacao, and hemp. In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or components,

[0084] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes flavoring agents. As used herein, the terms "flavoring agent" and "seasoning" refer to materials that, where permitted by local regulations, can be used in a product to produce a taste, aroma, or other bodily sensation desired by an adult consumer. These can include naturally occurring flavoring materials, plants, plant extracts, synthetic materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, licorice (licorice root), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, anise, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, holly, cherry, berries, raspberries, cranberries, peach, apple, orange, mango, citrus, lemon, lime, tropical fruits, papaya, etc.). Yellow, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Tolingo, bourbon whiskey, Scotch whiskey, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, mint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, bitter bean husk, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, arabesque tea, sorghum, areca leaf, coriander, pine, honey extract, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cinnamon, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage. Herbs, fennel, mustard, green bell pepper, ginger, coriander, coffee, peppermint oil from any kind of mint, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, red beans, flax, ginkgo leaves, hazelnuts, hibiscus, bay leaves, yerba mate, orange peel, rose, tea (e.g., green or black tea), thyme, juniper, elderberry, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, chili peppers, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, perilla, turmeric, coriander, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, Spanish bell pepper, dried nutmeg, and more. Meadows, marjoram, olives, lemon balm, lemon basil, scallions, parsley, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor blockers, sensory receptor activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclosulfonates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plants, or breath fresheners. They can be imitation, synthetic, or natural ingredients or mixtures thereof. They can be in any suitable form, such as liquids like oils, solids like powders, or gases.

[0085] 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.

[0086] In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of olfactory or gustatory nerves, flavorants can include sensory agents intended to achieve somatosensory sensations normally induced and perceived by the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), and these can include agents that provide a heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable warming agent can be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and a suitable cooling agent can be, but is not limited to, eucalyptol, WS-3.

[0087] An aerosol generating material is a material that is capable of generating an aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or otherwise provided with energy. The aerosol generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel, which can or can not contain an active substance and / or a flavourant. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material can comprise an "amorphous solid", which can alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid can be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid (e.g. liquid) within its interior. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may, for example, comprise from about 50 wt%, 60 wt% or 70 wt% of an amorphous solid to about 90 wt%, 95 wt% or 100 wt% of an amorphous solid.

[0088] The aerosol generating material can comprise one or more active substances and / or flavourants, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0089] The aerosol-former material can comprise one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material can comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3- butanediol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, glycerol diacetate mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, glycerol tributyrate, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid and propylene carbonate.

[0090] The one or more other functional materials can comprise one or more of a pH adjuster, a colourant, a preservative, a binder, a filler, a stabiliser and / or an antioxidant.

[0091] The material can be present on or in a support to form a matrix. The support can be or comprise, for example, paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the support comprises a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material.

[0092] A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol- generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. A consumable can comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage region, an aerosol-generating material delivery component, an aerosol-generating region, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. A consumable can also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which in use releases heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater can for example comprise a combustible material, a material that is heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0093] A susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor can be an electrically conductive material, such that it is inductively heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. The susceptor can be a magnetic material, such that it is magnetically heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. The susceptor can be electrically conductive and magnetic, such that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. In this document, a device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator.

[0094] An aerosol modifier is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol-generating region, configured to modify the generated aerosol, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity, or other characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier can be provided in an aerosol modifier release component, which is operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier. For example, the aerosol modifier can be an additive or a sorbent. For example, the aerosol modifier can comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon sorbent. For example, the aerosol modifier can be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol modifier can be in the form of a powder, a thread, or a granule. The aerosol modifier can be free of filter material.

[0095] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to thermal energy in order to release one or more volatilised substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator can be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, pressurisation, or electrostatic energy.

[0096] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems (which can also be referred to as nebulised air delivery systems), such as e-vaping devices or electronic cigarettes. In the following description, the term 'e-cigarette' or 'e-cig' can sometimes be used, but it will be understood that this terminology can be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery systems / devices and electronic aerosol delivery systems / devices. Furthermore, as is common in the art, the terms 'aerosol' and 'nebulised air' and related terms such as 'vaporisation', 'aerosolisation' and 'aerosolising' can generally be used interchangeably.

[0097] Aerosol delivery systems (e-cigarettes) typically (although not always) comprise a modular configuration, comprising a reusable device portion and a replaceable (disposable / consumable) cartridge component. Typically, the replaceable cartridge component will comprise aerosol generating material and a vaporiser (which can be collectively referred to as an 'atomiser'), and the reusable device portion will comprise a power supply (e.g. a rechargeable power supply) and control circuitry. It will be understood that these different portions can comprise additional elements according to functionality. For example, the reusable device portion will typically comprise a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operational status features, and the replaceable cartridge device portion in some cases comprises a temperature sensor for assisting in temperature control. The cartridge is electrically and mechanically coupled to the control unit for use, for example using threads, a bayonet or a magnetic coupling with appropriately arranged electrical contacts. When the aerosol generating material in the cartridge is exhausted, or the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge with a different aerosol generating material, the cartridge can be removed from the reusable portion and a replacement cartridge attached in its place. Systems and devices conforming to this type of two-part modular configuration can generally be referred to as two-part systems / devices.

[0098] E-cigarettes typically have a generally elongate shape. To provide a specific example, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be considered to comprise such generally elongate two-piece systems employing disposable cartridges. However, it will be understood that the underlying principles described herein can equally apply to different configurations, such as single-piece systems or modular systems comprising more than two components, refillable devices and single-use disposable items, and other overall shapes, such as high performance devices based on the so-called box mod which typically have a box-like shape. More generally, it will be understood that certain embodiments of the present disclosure are based on aerosol delivery systems which are operatively configured to provide functionality in accordance with the principles described herein, and that the configuration aspects of the systems which are configured to provide functionality in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure are not of primary importance.

[0099] Throughout the present disclosure, the terms'substantially', 'approximately' and 'about' should be considered to mean within + / - 10% unless otherwise indicated.

[0100] Figure Number Index

[0101] 1 Aerosol delivery system

[0102] 2 Reusable portion

[0103] 4 Cartridge portion

[0104] 6 Interface between reusable portion and cartridge portion

[0105] 12 Reusable portion housing

[0106] 14, 16 User input buttons

[0107] 20 User programming circuitry

[0108] 22 Controller

[0109] 24 Display

[0110] 26 Power supply

[0111] 28 Air inlet

[0112] 30 Airflow sensor

[0113] 31 Printed circuit board (PCB)

[0114] 32 Sensor cavity or chamber

[0115] 34 Chamber wall

[0116] 42 Cartridge housing

[0117] 44 Chamber or reservoir

[0118] 45 Reflector

[0119] 46 Cartridge

[0120] 48 Aerosol generator

[0121] 48a Aerosol generator terminal

[0122] 48b Aerosol generator lamp holder

[0123] 48c Aerosol generator filament

[0124] 48d Aerosol generator sealed bulb

[0125] 50 Mouthpiece outlet

[0126] 51 Airflow path through reusable portion

[0127] 52 Airflow path through cartridge

[0128] 53 Airflow path between cartridge and aerosol generator

[0129] Specific features

[0130] The following describes specific features and envisions any and all permutations and combinations thereof with any one or more features disclosed herein or elsewhere in this application.

[0131] 1. An aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material in an aerosol delivery system comprising a power supply and an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generator comprising a filament sealed in a bubble containing an inert gas and optionally a halogen gas.

[0132] 2. An aerosol delivery system (or aerosol delivery device) comprising an aerosol generator (or aerosol generating device) for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generator comprising a filament sealed in a bubble containing an inert gas.

[0133] 3. In some instances, aerosol generators include incandescent lamps.

[0134] 4. In some instances, aerosol generators include halogen lamps.

[0135] 5. In some instances, the system includes a carrier for delivering aerosol-generating materials to the aerosol generator during use.

[0136] 6. In some instances, during use, the aerosol generating material or carrier comes into direct contact with the sealing blister.

[0137] 7. In some instances, the aerosol generating material or carrier does not come into direct contact with the sealing bubble during use.

[0138] 8. In some instances, the aerosol generating material or carrier is in direct contact with one or more sides and / or one or more end faces of the hermetically sealed bubble.

[0139] 9. In some instances, the carrier includes a wicking element and / or a mesh.

[0140] 10. In some instances, the system includes a reflector.

[0141] 11. In some instances, the reflector essentially surrounds at least the sealed bulb that houses the filament.

[0142] 12. In some instances, in use, the reflector essentially surrounds both the sealed bulb housing the filament and the aerosol-generating material or carrier.

[0143] 13. In some instances, reflectors include reflective materials, reflective surfaces, or reflective coatings.

[0144] 14. In some instances, the reflector includes a reflective housing configured to receive a carrier and / or aerosol-generating material.

[0145] 15. In some instances, the system includes an airflow path between the carrier and the sealed bubble, the airflow path being used to entrain atomized gas generated by the aerosol generator during use.

[0146] 16. In some instances, the system includes a controller, a power supply, and / or aerosol-generating materials.

[0147] 17. In some instances, the controller is configured to determine and / or control the operating temperature of the aerosol generator during use.

[0148] 18. In some instances, the system includes a sensor configured to indicate the temperature of the aerosol generator.

[0149] 19. In some instances, the sensor is configured to measure light level, radiation level, and / or color temperature.

[0150] 20. In some instances, the controller is configured as follows: a. Receive input from sensors that predict and / or instruct the user to aspirate onto the system; and b. Control the power supply to the aerosol generator in response to the above input.

[0151] 21. In some instances, the controller is configured as follows: a. Receiving user input; and b. Control the power supply to the aerosol generator in response to the above input.

[0152] 22. In some instances, the system includes a photovoltaic cell configured to generate electricity from radiation produced by a filament.

[0153] 23. In some instances, the system includes a transparent or translucent viewing window for transmitting light from the filament to the user.

[0154] 24. In some instances: a. The aerosol delivery system is configured to receive a removable cartridge containing aerosol-generating material; or b. An aerosol delivery system is or includes a smoke cartridge containing an aerosol generator and aerosol-generating material.

[0155] All features and examples disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination except for combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0156] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature for the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless otherwise expressly stated. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated, each disclosed feature is merely one example of a general set of equivalent or similar features.

[0157] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprising” and “containing”, and variations thereof, mean “including but not limited to,” and are not intended (and do not) exclude other parts, additives, components, elements, or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the singular encompasses the plural. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, unless the context requires otherwise, this specification should be understood to contemplate both the plural and the singular.

[0158] Features, elements, properties, compounds, chemical parts, or groups described in connection with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example of this disclosure should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, unless incompatible therewith. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination except for combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. This disclosure is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments. This disclosure extends to any novel one or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or any novel one or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0159] The reader’s attention is drawn to all papers and documents related to this application, submitted concurrently with or prior to this specification, and available to the public together with this specification, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generator including a filament sealed in a bubble shell containing an inert gas.

2. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 1, wherein, The aerosol generator includes an incandescent lamp, such as a halogen lamp.

3. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a carrier for delivering aerosol generating material to the aerosol generator in use.

4. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, During use, the aerosol generating material or the carrier comes into direct contact with the sealing bubble.

5. The aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, During use, the aerosol generating material or the carrier does not come into direct contact with the sealing blister.

6. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 4, wherein, The aerosol generating material or the carrier is in direct contact with one or more sides and / or one or more end faces of the hermetically sealed bubble.

7. The aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, The carrier includes a core suction element and / or a mesh.

8. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a reflector.

9. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 8, wherein, The reflector substantially surrounds at least the sealed bulb housing the filament.

10. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, In use, the reflector essentially surrounds both the sealed bubble housing the filament and the aerosol generating material or the carrier.

11. The aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The reflector includes a reflective material, a reflective surface, or a reflective coating.

12. The aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein, The reflector includes a reflective housing configured to receive the carrier and / or aerosol-generating material.

13. The aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 3 to 12, comprising an airflow path located between the carrier and the sealed blister, the airflow path being used to entrain atomized gas generated by the aerosol generator during use.

14. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a controller, a power supply, and / or an aerosol generating material.

15. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 14, wherein, The controller is configured to determine and / or control the operating temperature of the aerosol generator during use.

16. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a sensor configured to indicate the temperature of the aerosol generator.

17. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a sensor configured to measure light level, radiation level and / or color temperature.

18. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The controller is configured as follows: a. Receiving input from sensors that predict and / or instruct the user to aspirate onto the system; and b. Control the power supply to the aerosol generator in response to the input.

19. The aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 14, 15 or 18, wherein, The controller is configured as follows: a. Receiving user input; and b. Control the power supply to the aerosol generator in response to the input.

20. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a photovoltaic cell configured to generate electricity from radiation produced by the filament.

21. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a transparent or translucent viewing window for transmitting light from the filament to a user.

22. The aerosol delivery system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: a. The aerosol delivery system is configured to receive a removable cartridge containing aerosol-generating material; or b. The aerosol delivery system is or includes a cartridge containing the aerosol generator and the aerosol generating material.

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