Aerosol generating device with heating

Abstract

An aerosol generation device (100) is provided that includes a mouthpiece, a heating chamber (101) for receiving at least one heating article (310), and a consumable chamber (102) for receiving at least one aerosol generating element (108). The consumable chamber (102) is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece. The consumable chamber (102) includes an opening (104) and a closure (106) that are movable between an open position, in which at least one aerosol generating element (108, 208, 308) may be inserted into or removed from the consumable chamber (102) through the opening (104), and a closed position, in which the at least one aerosol generating element (104) is retained within the consumable chamber (102). Also provided is an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation device (100), at least one heating article (310) disposed within the heating chamber (101), and at least one aerosol generation element (108, 208, 308) disposed within the consumable chamber (102). Also provided is a kit of parts comprising an aerosol generation device (100), at least one heating article (310) sized to be received within the at least one heating chamber (101), and at least one aerosol generation element (108, 208, 308) sized to be received within the consumable chamber (102).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device. In particular, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating device for use with at least one heating article and at least one aerosol generating element. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device, at least one heating article and at least one aerosol generating element. The present invention also relates to a kit of parts comprising an aerosol generating device, at least one heating article and at least one aerosol generating element. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a nicotine-containing substrate or a tobacco-containing substrate, is heated rather than combusted, are known in the art. Typically, in such heated smoking articles, an aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-generating substrate or material, which may be located in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol. Substrates for heated aerosol-generating articles have often been produced using randomly oriented pieces, strands, or strips of tobacco material.

[0003] Aerosol generating devices for consuming such aerosol-generating articles are also known in the art, including, for example, electrically heated aerosol generating devices in which the aerosol is generated by heat transfer from one or more electric heater elements of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol-generating substrate of the heated aerosol-generating article. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, such aerosol generating devices typically include electrical storage means such as batteries or capacitors. These electrical storage means require charging from an external power source, which is typically the main power supply. The main power supply may not be generated from a renewable source such as a wind turbine or solar cell. In addition, if the electrical storage means is completely depleted and the user is unable to use an external power source, the user may not be able to use the aerosol generating device at all, limiting the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0005] Additionally, prior art aerosol generating devices limit a user's ability to customize their user experience. Specifically, a user may want to customize the flavor delivered by the aerosol generating article, the duration of the user experience, and the amount of aerosol delivered. Although a user may select different aerosol generating articles for use with the aerosol generating device, this is a limit as to how customizable the user experience can be.

[0006] As a result, there is a need to provide an aerosol generating device that provides a more sustainable means of generating aerosols. There is also a need to provide an aerosol generating device that facilitates customization of the user experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a mouthpiece. The aerosol generating device may comprise a heating chamber for receiving at least one heating article. The aerosol generating device may comprise a consumable chamber for receiving at least one aerosol generating element. The consumable chamber may be in fluid communication with the mouthpiece. The consumable chamber may comprise an opening. The consumable chamber may comprise a closure movable between an open position, in which the at least one aerosol generating element may be inserted into or removed from the consumable chamber through the opening, and a closed position, in which the at least one aerosol generating element is retained within the consumable chamber.

[0008] According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a mouthpiece, a heating chamber for receiving at least one heating article, and a consumable chamber for receiving at least one aerosol generating element, the consumable chamber being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece, the consumable chamber comprising an opening and a closure movable between an open position, in which the at least one aerosol generating element may be inserted into or removed from the consumable chamber through the opening, and a closed position, in which the at least one aerosol generating element is retained within the consumable chamber.

[0009] The aerosol generating device of the present invention may also be used in combination with at least one heating article and at least one aerosol generating element. In use, the at least one heating article may be placed in the heating chamber and the at least one aerosol generating element may be placed in the consumable chamber. The at least one heating article may be activated and heat generated by the at least one heating article may heat the at least one aerosol generating element in the consumable chamber. The heated aerosol generating element may generate or otherwise generate an aerosol in the consumable chamber. The generated aerosol may exit the aerosol generating device through the mouthpiece.

[0010] Providing a consumable chamber for receiving at least one aerosol generating element may advantageously allow a user to customize their experience by selecting different aerosol generating elements for use with the device. If more than one aerosol generating element may be received within the consumable chamber at one time, the user may be able to further customize the user experience by varying the particular combination of different aerosol generating elements, or by varying how the aerosol generating elements are arranged or ordered within the consumable chamber.

[0011] The provision of a heating chamber for receiving at least one heating article may advantageously further allow a user to customize his / her user experience. In prior art aerosol generating devices including an integrated electric heater, the user may not be able to vary the temperature of the heater, or may only be able to vary the temperature to a limited extent. In the present invention, the user may insert different heating articles into the heating chamber to customize his / her experience to a greater extent than is possible with prior art devices. For example, the user may be able to choose among different heating articles that operate at different temperatures. The user may be able to select different heating articles that provide different temperature profiles. If a particular aerosol generating element is intended to be heated to a particular temperature or to use a particular heating profile, the user may advantageously be able to select an appropriate heating article for use with the corresponding aerosol generating element.

[0012] Where more than one heating item may be received within the heating chamber at one time, the user may be able to further customize their experience by varying the particular combination of different heating items or by varying how the heating items are arranged or ordered within the heating chamber.

[0013] Because the aerosol generating device generates heat by using a separate heating item, the aerosol generating device may not need to include any electronic components, such as electric heaters or batteries. This may advantageously simplify the manufacture of the aerosol generating device. In addition, this may advantageously eliminate the need for the aerosol generating device to require charging from an external power source.

[0014] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating element" refers to a discrete aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating element may be solid. The aerosol-generating element may comprise tobacco, e.g., homogenized tobacco. The aerosol-generating element may comprise an aerosol former.

[0015] The aerosol-generating element may comprise an aerosol-generating formulation dispersed and encapsulated within a crosslinked polymeric matrix. The structure and composition of the at least one aerosol-generating element are described in more detail below.

[0016] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol upon heating. The aerosol generated from at least one aerosol-generating element described herein is a dispersion of solid particles or liquid droplets (or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets) in a gas. The aerosol may be visible or invisible and may include vapors of substances that are normally liquid or solid at room temperature, as well as solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets.

[0017] As used herein, the term "heating article" refers to a separate component that generates heat. The at least one heating article may require activation to initiate heat generation. The at least one heating article may generate heat by any means. The at least one heating element may generate heat by using an electrical heating element. As discussed below, the at least one heating article may preferably generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change.

[0018] The heating chamber and the consumable chamber may be isolated from one another such that the heating chamber is not in fluid communication with the consumable chamber.

[0019] In this case, any material in the consumable chamber, such as aerosols generated, cannot enter the heating chamber, which may advantageously prevent any material from the consumable chamber from interfering with the at least one heating article, which may affect its ability to generate heat.

[0020] Similarly, any material in the heating chamber, such as exhaust gases from a chemical reaction, cannot enter the consumable chamber, which may advantageously prevent any material from the heating chamber from interfering with the generation of the aerosol or potentially being inhaled by the user.

[0021] The consumable chamber may include an air inlet, which may allow air to flow into the consumable chamber where it may become entrained in the generated aerosol before exiting the aerosol generating device through the mouthpiece, which may also advantageously provide an acceptable withdrawal resistance for a user.

[0022] The heating chamber may include an opening by which at least one heating article may be inserted into and removed from the heating chamber.

[0023] Providing an opening in the heating chamber may allow a user to remove used heating articles and replace them with new, unused heating articles. This may be advantageous when at least one heating article is single use or limited use and requires replacement or recharging after a certain number of user experiences. Providing an opening may also advantageously allow a user to easily customize their experience by choosing to insert different heating articles into the heating chamber.

[0024] The closure of the consumable chamber may also close an opening to the heating chamber such that at least one heating item may be inserted into or removed from the heating chamber when the closure is in the open position, and at least one heating item is retained within the heating chamber when the closure is in the closed position.

[0025] The provision of a closure to close the opening of the heating chamber may advantageously prevent the at least one heating article from becoming detached from the aerosol generating device during use. The provision of a closure to close both the opening of the heating chamber and the opening of the consumable chamber may mean that both chambers may be opened and closed by a user simultaneously. This may advantageously make the preparation of the aerosol generating device for use more convenient, particularly where both the at least one aerosol generating element and the heating article require replacement between uses.

[0026] The closure of the consumable chamber may be located adjacent the opening of the heating chamber, which may advantageously allow the closure to be as compact as possible.

[0027] The closure may be fully removable from the remainder of the aerosol generation device, in which case the closure may be fully removable from the remainder of the aerosol generation device when the closure is in the open position.

[0028] The closure may be attached to the remainder of the aerosol generating device in both the open and closed positions, in which case the closure may be attached to the remainder of the aerosol generating device by a hinge, pin or elastically deformable member.

[0029] The closure may include a retention means for securing the closure in a closed position. This may advantageously prevent inadvertent opening of the closure. The retention means may include a latch, catch or interference fit.

[0030] The closure may comprise a mouthpiece.

[0031] In this case, the closure may include an airflow passage in fluid communication with the opening of the consumable chamber. The airflow passage may be sized to prevent the at least one aerosol generating element from passing through the airflow passage when the closure is in the closed position, such that the closure can still securely hold the at least one aerosol generating element.

[0032] Providing a closure with the mouthpiece may advantageously offer a convenient solution for providing both features, thereby avoiding the need to include a closure and a separate mouthpiece. This provision may also allow an opening in the consumable chamber to provide both access for removing and replacing at least one aerosol generating element, as well as a means by which aerosol may exit the consumable chamber through the mouthpiece. This may minimize the number of openings in the consumable chamber, which may advantageously make manufacture simpler and more straightforward, and may also improve the strength of the aerosol generating device.

[0033] Where the closure comprises a mouthpiece, a portion of the closure completely covers the opening of the heating chamber when the closure is in the closed position to substantially prevent air from entering or exiting the heating chamber through the mouthpiece, which may advantageously prevent any exhaust gases from the at least one heating article from entering the mouthpiece and being inhaled by the user.

[0034] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a thermally conductive element disposed between the heating chamber and the consumable chamber.

[0035] Providing a thermally conductive element between the heating chamber and the consumable chamber may improve heat transfer from the at least one heating article to the at least one aerosol generating element, which may advantageously improve aerosol generation from the at least one aerosol generating element disposed within the consumable chamber.

[0036] The thermally conductive element may include any material. The thermally conductive element may include a metallic material. Suitable thermally conductive elements for use in the present invention include, but are not limited to, aluminum, steel, iron, copper, and alloys thereof. The thermally conductive element may include a metallic foil material.

[0037] As used herein, the term "thermally conductive material" is used to describe a material that has a bulk thermal conductivity of at least about 10 W per meter Kelvin (W / (m K)) at 23°C and 50% relative humidity when measured using the modified transient plane source (MTPS) method.

[0038] The aerosol generating device may include an outer housing, which may be thermally insulating.

[0039] The provision of an insulating outer housing may advantageously prevent the outer surface of the aerosol generating device from becoming excessively hot. This provision may also retain maximum heat inside the aerosol generating device. This may advantageously improve aerosol generation from at least one aerosol generating element within the consumable housing.

[0040] The outer housing may include an insulating material. The insulating material may be any insulating material. For example, the insulating material may be a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include one or more of polyaryletherketone (PAEK), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyphenylenesulfone (PPSU).

[0041] The outer housing may comprise an insulating structure. For example, the outer housing may comprise a double-walled structure. The double-walled structure may comprise air, foam, or vacuum between the two walls to provide insulation.

[0042] As used herein, the term "thermal insulating" is used to describe a material or structure that has a thermal conductivity of less than about 50 milliwatts per meter Kelvin (mW / (m K)) at 23 °C and 50% relative humidity when measured using the modified transient plane source (MTPS) method.

[0043] The opening of the consumable chamber may be located at an upstream end of the consumable chamber.The opening of the consumable chamber may be located on a longitudinal surface of the consumable chamber.

[0044] The opening of the consumable chamber may be located at a downstream end of the consumable chamber.

[0045] Locating the opening at the downstream end of the consumable chamber may be particularly advantageous when the closure includes a mouthpiece. When the closure includes a mouthpiece, providing the opening of the consumable chamber at the downstream end is advantageous because it locates the opening near the mouthpiece so that the airflow passage of the mouthpiece may be readily in fluid communication with the opening of the consumable passage when the closure is in the closed position.

[0046] The opening of the heating chamber may be located at an upstream end of the heating chamber.The opening of the heating chamber may be located on a longitudinal surface of the heating chamber.

[0047] The opening of the heating chamber may be located at a downstream end of the heating chamber.

[0048] Locating the opening at the downstream end of the heating chamber may be particularly advantageous when the closure includes a mouthpiece. When the closure includes a mouthpiece, providing the opening of the heating chamber at the downstream end is advantageous to allow the closure to easily close the opening of the heating chamber when the closure is in the closed position.

[0049] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe the relative location of components or portions of components of an aerosol generation device or aerosol generation system with respect to the direction in which air flows through the aerosol generation device during use. Components or portions of components of an aerosol generation device or aerosol generation system may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on their relative location between the upstream end of the aerosol generation device or aerosol generation system and the downstream end of the aerosol generation device or aerosol generation system.

[0050] As used herein, the term "longitudinal axis" refers to an axis extending between an upstream end of the aerosol generation device and a downstream end of the aerosol generation device. The longitudinal direction is a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation device, and the longitudinal surface of the heating chamber is the surface of the heating chamber that extends between the upstream end of the heating chamber and the downstream end of the heating chamber.

[0051] The heating chamber may include a longitudinal opening within which the consumable chamber is disposed.

[0052] In this case, the consumable chamber may be completely surrounded along its longitudinal length by the heating chamber, which may ensure that heat is provided to the consumable chamber from all sides thereof, which may advantageously ensure efficient heating of the at least one aerosol generation element during use of the aerosol generation device.

[0053] The heating chamber may be of any shape. The heating chamber may be generally cylindrical, including an upstream face, a downstream face, and a longitudinal surface extending between the upstream and downstream faces.

[0054] The heating chamber may be toroidal in shape. The heating chamber may be a toroidal cylinder. In other words, the heating chamber may be generally cylindrical in shape and may include an opening passing from the upstream face to the downstream face. The opening may be disposed along the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber. When the heating chamber is toroidal in shape, the opening of the heating chamber through which the heating article may be inserted or removed may also be toroidal in shape.

[0055] The consumable chamber may include a longitudinal opening within which the heating chamber is disposed.

[0056] In this case, the heating chamber may be completely surrounded along its longitudinal length by the consumable chamber. This may provide a maximum distance between the heating chamber and the exterior surface of the aerosol generating device. This may advantageously prevent the exterior surface of the aerosol generating device from becoming excessively hot. This may also advantageously provide efficient heating of the consumable chamber by at least one heating item disposed within the heating chamber.

[0057] The consumable chamber may be generally cylindrical including an upstream face, a downstream face, and a longitudinal surface extending between the upstream and downstream faces.

[0058] The consumable chamber may be toroidal in shape. The consumable chamber may be a toroidal cylinder. In other words, the consumable chamber may be generally cylindrical in shape and may include an opening passing from the upstream surface to the downstream surface. The opening may be disposed along a longitudinal axis of the consumable chamber.

[0059] The heating chamber may be formed from an elastically deformable material.

[0060] The elastically deformable material may include a polymeric material. Examples of suitable elastically deformable polymeric materials include polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and combinations thereof.

[0061] Providing a heating chamber formed from an elastically deformable material may allow a user to mechanically deform at least one heating item disposed within the heating chamber. If the at least one heating item requires mechanical deformation to activate heat generation, providing an elastically deformable material may advantageously allow a user to activate the at least one heating item without having to directly access the at least one heating item. For example, if the at least one heating item comprises a heating item that generates heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change, a user may be able to crack the at least one heating item by squeezing the elastically deformable heating chamber to initiate the exothermic chemical or physical change.

[0062] The heating chamber may be configured to receive at least one heating article configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change.

[0063] The provision of a heating chamber configured to receive a heating article configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change may enable the aerosol generating device to generate heat without the need for any electronic components such as electric heaters or batteries, which may advantageously mean that the aerosol generating device does not need to be charged from an external power source that may not be generated from a renewable source.

[0064] The at least one heating article may generate heat by an exothermic chemical change, where two or more chemical reagents are combined and may chemically react to form one or more reaction products, the reaction generating heat, or alternatively or additionally, a single reagent may decompose to form multiple reaction products, the reaction generating heat.

[0065] The at least one heating article may be one in which heat is generated by an exothermic physical change. The physical change may involve one or more substances changing from a liquid state to a solid state, or from a solid state to a liquid state. Alternatively or additionally, the physical change may involve one or more substances changing from a first solid state to a second solid state, or from a first liquid state to a second liquid state. The at least one heating article may include a phase change material.

[0066] As used herein, the term "phase change material" refers to a substance that releases a significant amount of energy during a phase transition. The phase change material may have a first phase in a higher energy state and a second phase in a lower energy state. When the phase change material moves from a higher energy state to a lower energy state, useful energy is released. This energy is used to heat at least one aerosol generating element disposed within the consumable chamber. Further details of the at least one heating article are discussed below.

[0067] The heating chamber may be configured to receive at least one heating item that generates heat without the use of electrical power.

[0068] This may mean that the aerosol generating device does not include an electric heater or an associated internal power source for powering the electric heater. This may advantageously mean that the aerosol generating device does not need to be charged from an external power source, which may not be generated from a renewable source. As set out above, the at least one heating article may generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change.

[0069] Additionally, this may mean that the heating chamber does not require wires or other electrical contacts to protrude into the heating chamber, which may advantageously help maintain the integrity of the heating chamber by minimizing the number of holes protruding into the heating chamber.

[0070] The aerosol generating device may not include any electrical components. Alternatively, the aerosol generating device may still include electrical components that provide functions other than the generation of heat. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a user interface, a puff counter, a puff volume detector, or a temperature sensor.

[0071] The heating chamber may be divided into a first heating chamber section and a second heating chamber section by a heating chamber barrier such that a first heating item disposed in the first heating chamber section is kept separate from a second heating item disposed in the second heating chamber section.

[0072] This arrangement may be particularly advantageous when the aerosol generating device is intended to be used with at least one heating article comprising a first heating article containing a first reagent and a second heating article containing a second reagent, which react together to generate heat in an exothermic reaction. The first heating article containing the first reagent may be disposed within the first heated chamber section, and the second heating article containing the second reagent may be disposed within the second heated chamber section. This may advantageously prevent the first and second reagents from reacting prematurely.

[0073] The heating chamber barrier may be movable between a closed position in which the first and second heating chamber sections are separated such that a first heating item disposed in the first heating chamber section is maintained separate from a second heating item disposed in the second heating chamber section, and an open position in which a first heating item disposed in the first heating chamber section can mix with a second heating item disposed in the second heating chamber section.

[0074] This arrangement may advantageously allow a first heating item including a first reagent disposed in the first heating chamber section and a second heating item including a second reagent disposed in the second heating chamber section to be kept separate until such time as heat generation is required. When heat is required from at least one heating item, a user may move the heating chamber barrier from a closed position to an open position, allowing the first heating item disposed in the first heating chamber section to mix with the second heating item disposed in the second heating chamber section. The combination of the first heating item and the second heating item may generate heat due to an exothermic chemical or physical change between the reagents disposed in the first heating item or the second heating item.

[0075] The provision of a movable barrier advantageously allows a wider range of different heating articles to be used with the aerosol generating device.

[0076] The heated chamber barrier may be formed from a frangible material that, when broken, allows a first heated item disposed in the first heated chamber section to mix with a second heated item disposed in the second heated chamber section. A user may break the frangible barrier by squeezing or bending the heated chamber. A user may break the frangible barrier by actuating a control on the aerosol generating device that breaks the frangible barrier.

[0077] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a power source and electrical circuitry configured to initiate an exothermic chemical or physical change in the at least one heating item.

[0078] Some exothermic chemical or physical changes require a certain activation energy to initiate the chemical or physical change. In this case, the energy may be provided by a power source that initiates the chemical or physical change. For example, the power source may be connected to a heating element configured to provide just enough heat to the at least one heating item to initiate the chemical or physical change. Alternatively, or additionally, the power source may be connected to electrodes configured to apply a current directly to the at least one heating element to initiate the chemical or physical change. Once the chemical or physical change has been initiated, the power source and the electrical circuit may be interrupted, and all the energy used to heat the at least one aerosol generating element may be derived from the exothermic chemical or physical change of the at least one heating item. Advantageously, no electrical energy is provided other than the electrical energy required to initiate the chemical or physical change.

[0079] The power source may be any power source. The power source may be at least one of a battery, a capacitor, or a supercapacitor. The power source may be rechargeable from an external power source.

[0080] The electrical circuit may include a heating element configured to heat at least one heating item disposed within the heating chamber.

[0081] The heating element may be disposed within or near the heating chamber. The electrical circuitry may include a user interface element by which a user may activate the electrical circuitry to initiate an exothermic chemical or physical change in the at least one heating article. The electrical circuitry may include a controller for controlling power provided from the power source to the other elements of the control circuitry.

[0082] The heating chamber may include a gas outlet.

[0083] When the aerosol generating device is used with at least one heating item configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical reaction, the exothermic chemical reaction may emit exhaust gases as a reaction product. For example, if the exothermic chemical reaction involves the combustion of a carbonaceous material, carbon dioxide gas will be emitted. The provision of a gas outlet allows any exhaust gases to be vented from the heating chamber. This may advantageously prevent pressure in the heating chamber from increasing to a level that may damage the aerosol generating device. This may also prevent waste gases from suppressing or otherwise slowing the chemical reaction occurring in the combustion chamber.

[0084] The gas outlet may be smaller than the heating chamber outlet, which advantageously prevents the at least one heating article feature from passing through the gas outlet.

[0085] The gas outlet may be located in the upstream half of the heating chamber. The gas outlet may be located at the upstream end of the heating chamber. This may ensure that exhaust gases are emitted as far as possible from the user during use of the aerosol generating device. This may advantageously limit the amount of exhaust gases inhaled by the user.

[0086] According to the present invention there is also provided an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generating device as described above, at least one heating article disposed within the heating chamber, and at least one aerosol generating element disposed within the consumable chamber.

[0087] According to the present invention there is also provided a kit of parts comprising an aerosol generating device as described above, at least one heating article sized to be received within the heating chamber, and at least one aerosol generating element sized to be received within the consumable chamber.

[0088] The at least one aerosol-generating element may have any shape. The at least one aerosol-generating element may have the shape of a bead, a capsule, a plug, or a tablet.

[0089] At least one aerosol-generating element may have a shape in the form of at least one of a sphere, a cylinder, or a toroid.

[0090] The at least one aerosol generating element may have a cross-sectional shape that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the consumable chamber. This may allow the at least one aerosol generating element to be held securely within the consumable chamber such that it cannot move around within the chamber. This may advantageously improve heat transfer from the at least one heating article to the at least one aerosol generating element as it minimizes air pockets within the consumable chamber. This may also prevent the multiple aerosol generating elements from moving past each other or becoming jumbled up inside the consumable chamber. This may be advantageous if a user wishes to achieve a customized user experience by arranging multiple different aerosol generating elements in a particular order. This may provide the user with a unique flavor, or a unique series of flavors that are generated in sequence.

[0091] If the at least one aerosol generating element is spherical or cylindrical in shape, the consumable chamber may be generally cylindrical and may have a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the at least one aerosol generating element. If the at least one aerosol generating element is toroidal in shape, the consumable chamber may also have the general shape of a toroid. If the consumable chamber is configured to receive two or more aerosol generating elements, the consumable chamber may be a toroidal cylinder.

[0092] At least one aerosol-generating element may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 0.5 millimeters.

[0093] The term "equivalent diameter" is used herein to mean the diameter of a sphere having the same volume as the aerosol-generating element, regardless of the shape of the at least one aerosol-generating element. As mentioned above, the at least one aerosol-generating element may have any shape. For an aerosol-generating element having a spherical shape and a circular transverse cross-section, the equivalent diameter is the diameter of the cross-section of the at least one aerosol-generating element.

[0094] The at least one aerosol-generating element may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 1 millimeter, at least about 2 millimeters, or at least about 3 millimeters.

[0095] The at least one aerosol-generating element may have an equivalent diameter of about 8 millimeters or less, about 6 millimeters or less, or about 5 millimeters or less.

[0096] The at least one aerosol-generating element may have an equivalent diameter of about 0.5 millimeters to about 8 millimeters, about 1 millimeter to about 8 millimeters, about 2 millimeters to about 8 millimeters, or about 3 millimeters to about 8 millimeters.

[0097] At least one aerosol-generating element may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 4 millimeters or about 4.5 millimeters.

[0098] At least one aerosol-generating element may have a larger equivalent diameter, for example at least one aerosol-generating element may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 5 millimeters, at least about 7 millimeters, or at least about 10 millimeters.

[0099] The consumable chamber may have a height n times the height of a single aerosol generating element, where n is an integer. For example, the consumable chamber may have a height 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 times the height of a single aerosol generating element. This provision prevents any excess space in the consumable chamber when the consumable chamber is filled with aerosol generating elements. This advantageously provides more efficient heating of the at least one aerosol generating element and also prevents the aerosol generating device from being somewhat larger than necessary.

[0100] The at least one heating article may have any shape. The at least one heating article may have the shape of a bead, a capsule, a plug, or a tablet.

[0101] The at least one heating article may have a shape in the form of at least one of a sphere, a cylinder, or a toroid.

[0102] The at least one heating article may have a cross-sectional shape that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the heating chamber. This may allow the at least one heating article to be held securely within the heating chamber such that it cannot move around within the chamber. This may advantageously improve heat transfer from the at least one heating article to the at least one aerosol generating element, as it minimizes air pockets within the heating chamber. This may also prevent multiple heating articles from moving past each other or becoming jumbled up inside the heating chamber. This may be advantageous if a user wishes to achieve a customized user experience by arranging multiple different heating articles in a specific order. Heating articles configured to emit a specific amount of heat may be disposed within the heating chamber adjacent to a corresponding aerosol generating element in the consumable chamber. This may advantageously allow a user to fully customize their user experience by allowing them to use an aerosol generating element of their choice with a corresponding heating article.

[0103] If the at least one heating item is spherical or cylindrical in shape, the heating chamber may be generally cylindrical and may have a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the at least one heating item. If the at least one heating item is toroidal in shape, the heating chamber may also have the general shape of a toroid. If the heating chamber is configured to receive two or more heating items, the heating chamber may be a toroidal cylinder.

[0104] The at least one heating article may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 0.5 millimeters.

[0105] The term "equivalent diameter" is used herein to mean the diameter of a sphere having the same volume as the at least one heating item, regardless of the shape of the at least one heating item. As mentioned above, the at least one heating item may have any shape. For a heating item having a spherical shape and a circular transverse cross section, the equivalent diameter is the diameter of the cross section of the at least one heating item.

[0106] The at least one heating article may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 1 millimeter, at least about 2 millimeters, or at least about 3 millimeters.

[0107] The at least one heating article may have an equivalent diameter of about 8 millimeters or less, about 6 millimeters or less, or about 5 millimeters or less.

[0108] The at least one heating article may have an equivalent diameter of about 0.5 millimeters to about 8 millimeters, about 1 millimeter to about 8 millimeters, about 2 millimeters to about 8 millimeters, or about 3 millimeters to about 8 millimeters.

[0109] The at least one heating article may have an equivalent diameter of about 4 millimeters or about 4.5 millimeters.

[0110] At least one heating article may have a larger equivalent diameter, for example, at least one heating article may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 5 millimeters, at least about 7 millimeters, or at least about 10 millimeters.

[0111] The heating chamber may have a height of n times the height of a single heating article, where n is an integer. For example, the heating chamber may have a height of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 times the height of a single heating article. This provision prevents any excess space in the heating chamber when the heating chamber is filled with heating articles. This advantageously provides more efficient heating of the aerosol generating element and also prevents the aerosol generating device from being somewhat larger than necessary.

[0112] The at least one heating article and the at least one aerosol-generating element may have substantially the same height.

[0113] As used herein, the term "height" refers to the dimension of a component of an aerosol generation system or kit of parts along the longitudinal axis of an aerosol generation device. The height of the at least one heating article and at least one aerosol generation element is the dimension of these components along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation device when they are received within the heating chamber and consumable chamber, respectively.

[0114] Providing the at least one heating article having substantially the same height as the at least one aerosol generating element may enable the upstream end of the at least one heating article to be substantially aligned with the upstream end of the at least one aerosol generating element when the at least one heating article is received in the heating chamber and the at least one aerosol generating element is received in the consumable chamber. In addition, this arrangement may also enable the downstream end of the at least one heating article to be substantially aligned with the downstream end of the at least one aerosol generating element when the at least one heating article is received in the heating chamber and the at least one aerosol generating element is received in the consumable chamber.

[0115] This provision may allow for the most efficient heating of the at least one aerosol generating element by the at least one heating article, since the at least one aerosol generating element is heated along its entire length by the at least one heating article, but the at least one heating article does not generate heat in locations where heat is not required.

[0116] Providing at least one heating article having substantially the same height as the at least one aerosol generating element may make it easier for a user to customize their experience by stacking a desired combination and order of aerosol generating elements within the consumable chamber and stacking corresponding heating articles within the heating chamber. In use, a first heating article heats a first aerosol generating element, a second heating article heats a second aerosol generating element, etc. In this manner, each aerosol generating element may be heated by a corresponding heating article, which may be configured to provide appropriate heat to an adjacent aerosol generating element.

[0117] An aerosol generating system or kit of parts may comprise multiple heating articles and multiple aerosol generating elements.

[0118] For example, an aerosol generation system or kit of parts may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more heating items. An aerosol generation system or kit of parts may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more aerosol generating elements.

[0119] An aerosol generating system or kit of parts may comprise as many heating articles as there are aerosol generating elements.

[0120] This advantageously allows each aerosol generating element to be heated by a corresponding heating article, which may be configured to provide appropriate heat to that aerosol generating element.

[0121] The at least one heating article may be configured to increase the temperature of the at least one aerosol generating element to any temperature, for example, the at least one heating article may be configured to increase the temperature of the at least one aerosol generating element from 130 degrees Celsius to 350 degrees Celsius.

[0122] The at least one heating item may be configured to maintain the elevated temperature for a period of between about 8 minutes and about 10 minutes.

[0123] The at least one heating article may be configured to generate heat through an exothermic chemical or physical change.

[0124] As mentioned above, the provision of at least one heating article configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change may enable the aerosol generating device to generate heat without the need for any electronic components such as electric heaters or batteries, which may advantageously mean that the aerosol generating device does not need to be charged from an external power source that may not be generated from a renewable source.

[0125] The at least one heating article may generate heat by an exothermic chemical change, where two or more chemical reagents are combined and may chemically react to form one or more reaction products, the reaction generating heat, or alternatively or additionally, a single reagent may decompose to form multiple reaction products, the reaction generating heat.

[0126] At least one heating article may be one in which heat is generated by an exothermic physical change. The physical change may involve one or more substances changing from a liquid state to a solid state, or from a solid state to a liquid state. Alternatively or additionally, the physical change may involve one or more substances changing from a first solid state to a second solid state, or from a first liquid state to a second liquid state. In this case, the heating article may include a phase change material.

[0127] The at least one heating article may include at least one of iron and sodium acetate.

[0128] When the at least one heating item comprises iron, the iron may chemically react with oxygen in the air to form iron oxide. This oxidation reaction may generate thermal energy that is used to heat the at least one aerosol-generating element. The iron may comprise iron powder or iron shavings. This may increase the surface area of ​​the iron, which may advantageously increase the heat generated by the at least one heating item.

[0129] The at least one heating article may include a phase change material. For example, the at least one heating article may include sodium acetate. When the at least one heating article includes sodium acetate, the at least one heating article may include a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate dissolved in a solvent. By disturbing or agitating the supersaturated solution of sodium acetate, the sodium acetate crystallizes to form solid crystals. The physical change releases heat that is used to heat the at least one aerosol generating element.

[0130] The at least one heating article may include a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate enclosed within a polymeric container, which may be deformable to allow a user to initiate exothermic crystallizing sodium acetate by disturbing or agitating the polymeric container.

[0131] The at least one heating article may comprise a first heating article and a second heating article that generate heat when combined.

[0132] In this case, the first heating article may contain a first reagent and the second heating article may contain a second reagent. The first heating article and the second heating article may be kept apart until such time as heat generation is required, at which point they may be combined to initiate an exothermic chemical reaction to generate heat that is used to heat at least one aerosol generating element.

[0133] The first heating item may include water and the second heating item may include at least one of calcium oxide, calcium chloride, and magnesium iron alloy.

[0134] Each of calcium oxide, calcium chloride, and magnesium iron alloy reacts with water in an exothermic reaction to generate heat that is used to heat at least one aerosol-generating element.

[0135] The exothermic chemical or physical change may be a reversible chemical or physical change such that the at least one heating article may be used multiple times.

[0136] Providing at least one heating article that generates heat using a reversible process may advantageously allow the at least one heating article to be used more than once, reducing waste.

[0137] The exothermic chemical or physical change may be reversed by applying energy to the at least one heating article, for example, the exothermic or physical change may be reversed by heating the at least one heating article or by irradiating the at least one heating article with, for example, microwave radiation, by immersing in a hot liquid, or by placing the at least one heating article in an oven.

[0138] To reverse the chemical or physical change, the at least one heating article may be removed from the aerosol generating device through an opening in the heating chamber. Alternatively, the chemical or physical change may be reversed while the at least one heating article remains within the heating chamber. In this case, the entire aerosol generating device may be heated or irradiated to reverse the chemical or physical change. In embodiments where the chemical or physical change may be reversed while the at least one heating article remains within the heating chamber, the heating chamber may not include any openings.

[0139] An exothermic chemical or physical change may be initiated by applying an electric current to at least one heating article.

[0140] As mentioned above, the activation energy for the exothermic chemical or physical change in the at least one heating article may be provided by an electric current. This electric current may be provided by a power source and an electrical circuit within the aerosol generating device. In use, a user may activate the electric current when heat is required from the at least one heating article. The electric current may initiate an exothermic chemical or physical change in the at least one heating article.

[0141] The exothermic chemical or physical change may be initiated by heating at least one heating item.

[0142] As mentioned above, the activation energy for the exothermic chemical or physical change in the at least one heating article may be provided by an electric heating element. The heating element may be connected to a power source and an electrical circuit within the aerosol generating device. In use, a user may activate the heating element when heat is required from the at least one heating article. The heat from the heating element may initiate an exothermic chemical or physical change in the at least one heating article.

[0143] The exothermic chemical or physical change may be initiated by mechanically agitating at least one heated item.

[0144] As mentioned above, some exothermic chemical or physical changes may be activated by mechanically deforming, agitating, or disturbing the at least one heating article. For example, a crystallization phase change of a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate may be initiated by mechanically agitating the solution. The at least one heating article may be activated by shaking, cracking, or squeezing the at least one heating article.

[0145] The provision of at least one heating article in which an exothermic chemical or physical change can be initiated by mechanical agitation can be advantageous because it may eliminate the need for a power source and electrical circuitry, simplifying the aerosol generating device.

[0146] If the exothermic chemical or physical change is initiated by mechanically agitating the at least one heating article, the at least one heating article may further comprise a deformable initiator element, the deformation of which may initiate the exothermic chemical or physical change. For example, if the at least one heating article comprises a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate dissolved in a solvent, a metallic element, such as a metal disk, may be included in the solution to act as an initiator element. In use, when the metallic element is deformed by a user, nucleation sites are created that initiate the crystallization of sodium acetate.

[0147] At least one aerosol-generating element may comprise a solid continuous matrix structure and an aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure. The aerosol-generating formulation may be entrapped within the solid continuous matrix structure and releasable from the solid continuous matrix structure upon heating of the aerosol-generating element. The solid continuous matrix structure may be a polymeric matrix comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers. The aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure may comprise at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound. The aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure may comprise a polyhydric alcohol. The aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure may comprise at least about 80 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

[0148] In the aerosol-generating element according to the invention, the solid continuous matrix structure is a polymeric matrix comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers, and further, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 80 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

[0149] The polymer-derived solid continuous matrix of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention provides an inert encapsulation structure for holding and immobilizing the aerosol-generating formulation, which is stable upon heating of the aerosol-generating element during use. The inventors have found that when heated to temperatures in the range of 150 degrees Celsius to 350 degrees Celsius, the aerosol-generating element according to the invention releases an aerosol as it undergoes significant weight loss. However, this weight loss is not accompanied by an equally significant volume loss. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is understood that upon heating, the components of the aerosol-generating formulation originally dispersed and trapped within the solid continuous matrix structure are substantially vaporized and released. Meanwhile, the components of the solid continuous matrix are substantially unaffected, and the solid continuous matrix only partially shrinks while essentially retaining its 3D structure. Thus, the encapsulation of the aerosol-generating formulation within the polymer-derived matrix advantageously results in minimal or no adverse effect on the sensory profile of the generated aerosol upon heating.

[0150] The aerosol generating element has been found to advantageously provide controlled delivery of the aerosol. Moreover, the aerosol delivery profile can be easily adjusted by adjusting the parameters of the aerosol generating element, such as the size, shape, structure, and formulation of the aerosol generating element.

[0151] The at least one aerosol-generating element may be in the form of a separate, free-standing solid object that is sufficiently stable and robust that it can be easily handled and incorporated into the aerosol-generating article using existing methods and techniques.

[0152] At least one aerosol-generating component may be prepared from a matrix precursor solution and the components of an aerosol-generating formulation. As an example, in a method of making an aerosol-generating component according to the present invention, a matrix precursor solution may be provided that includes a matrix-forming polymer in water. The matrix polymer solution may include at least about 35 weight percent water, more preferably at least about 40 weight percent water. This level of water ensures that the matrix-forming polymer is sufficiently dissolved so that a homogenous solution is provided.

[0153] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of the other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0154] Example 1: An aerosol generating device comprising a mouthpiece, a heating chamber for receiving at least one heating article, and a consumable chamber for receiving at least one aerosol generating element, wherein the consumable chamber is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece, and the consumable chamber comprises an opening and a closure movable between an open position in which the at least one aerosol generating element may be inserted into or removed from the consumable chamber through the opening, and a closed position in which the at least one aerosol generating element is retained within the consumable chamber. Example 2: The aerosol generation device of Example 1, wherein the heating chamber and the consumable chamber are separated from each other such that the heating chamber is not in fluid communication with the consumable chamber. Example 3: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the heating chamber includes an opening by which at least one heating item may be inserted into and removed from the heating chamber. Example 4: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 3, wherein the closure of the consumable chamber also closes the opening of the heating chamber, such that at least one heating item may be inserted into or removed from the heating chamber when the closure is in the open position, and at least one heating item is retained within the heating chamber when the closure is in the closed position. Example 5: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the closing part comprises a mouthpiece. Example 6: An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising a thermally conductive element disposed between the heating chamber and the consumable chamber. Example 7: The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, further comprising an outer housing, the outer housing being thermally insulating. Example 8: An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the opening of the consumable chamber is located at the downstream end of the consumable chamber. Example 9: The aerosol generating device described in Example 3 or Example 4, wherein the opening of the heating chamber is located at the downstream end of the heating chamber. Example 10: An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the heating chamber comprises a longitudinal opening into which the consumable chamber is disposed. Example 11: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the heating chamber is in the shape of a toroid. Example 12: An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the consumable chamber comprises a longitudinal opening into which the heating chamber is disposed. Example 13: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the consumable chamber is in the shape of a toroid. Example 14: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the heating chamber is formed from an elastically deformable material. Example 15: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the heating chamber is configured to receive at least one heating item configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change. Example 16: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the heating chamber is configured to receive at least one heating item that generates heat without the use of electricity. Example 17: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the heating chamber is divided into a first heating chamber section and a second heating chamber section by a heating chamber barrier, thereby keeping a first heating item located in the first heating chamber section separate from a second heating item located in the second heating chamber section. Example 18: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 17, wherein the heating chamber barrier is movable between a closed position in which the first heating chamber section and the second heating chamber section are separated such that the first heating item disposed in the first heating chamber section is maintained apart from the second heating item disposed in the second heating chamber section, and an open position in which the first heating item disposed in the first heating chamber section can mix with the second heating item disposed in the second heating chamber section. Example 19: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 18, further comprising a power source and electrical circuitry configured to initiate an exothermic chemical or physical change within at least one heating item. Example 20: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 19, wherein the electrical circuit comprises a heating element configured to heat at least one heating item disposed within the heating chamber. Example 21: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the heating chamber is provided with a gas outlet. Example 22: An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1 to 21, at least one heating item disposed in the heating chamber, and at least one aerosol generating element disposed in the consumable chamber. Example 23: An aerosol generating system as described in Example 22, wherein at least one aerosol generating element has a shape in the form of at least one of a sphere, a cylinder, or a toroid. Example 24: An aerosol generating system as described in Example 22 or Example 23, wherein at least one heating article has a shape in the form of at least one of a sphere, a cylinder, or a toroid. Example 25: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 22 to 24, wherein the at least one heating article and the at least one aerosol generating element have substantially the same height. Example 26: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 22 to 25, comprising a plurality of heating articles and a plurality of aerosol generating elements. Example 27: An aerosol generating system as described in Example 26, comprising the same number of heating articles as aerosol generating elements. Example 28: An aerosol generation system described in any one of Examples 22 to 27, wherein at least one heating item is configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change. Example 29: The aerosol generating system of Example 28, wherein at least one heating item comprises at least one of iron and sodium acetate. Example 30: An aerosol generation system as described in example 28 or example 29, wherein at least one heating article comprises a first heating article and a second heating article that generate heat when combined. Example 31: The aerosol generating system of Example 30, wherein the first heating item comprises water and the second heating item comprises at least one of calcium oxide, calcium chloride, and magnesium iron alloy. Example 32: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 28 to 31, wherein at least one heating article comprises a phase change material. Example 33: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 28 to 32, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is a reversible chemical or physical change, thereby allowing at least one heating item to be used multiple times. Example 34: An aerosol generation system described in any one of Examples 28 to 33, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is initiated by applying an electric current to at least one heating item. Example 35: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 28 to 33, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is initiated by heating at least one heating item. Example 36: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 28 to 33, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is initiated by mechanically agitating at least one heating item. Example 37: A kit of parts comprising an aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1 to 21, at least one heating article sized to be received within the heating chamber, and at least one aerosol generating element sized to be received within the consumable chamber. Example 38: A kit of parts as described in example 37, wherein at least one aerosol generating element has a shape in the form of at least one of a sphere, a cylinder, or a toroid. Example 39: The kit of parts of example 37 or example 38, wherein at least one heating article has a shape in the form of at least one of a sphere, a cylinder, or a toroid. Example 40: A kit of parts according to any one of examples 37 to 39, wherein the at least one heating article and the at least one aerosol generating element have substantially the same height. Example 41: A kit of parts according to any one of Examples 37-40, comprising a plurality of heating articles and a plurality of aerosol generating elements. Example 42: A kit of parts as described in Example 41, comprising the same number of heating articles as aerosol generating elements. Example 43: A kit of parts according to any one of Examples 37-42, wherein at least one heating article is configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change. Example 44: The kit of parts of example 43, wherein the at least one heating article comprises at least one of iron and sodium acetate. Example 45: The kit of parts of example 43 or example 44, wherein the at least one heating article comprises a first heating article and a second heating article that generate heat when combined. Example 46: The kit of parts of example 45, wherein the first heating item comprises water and the second heating item comprises at least one of calcium oxide, calcium chloride, and magnesium iron alloy. Example 47: The kit of parts of any one of Examples 43 to 46, wherein at least one heating article comprises a phase change material. Example 48: A kit of parts according to any one of Examples 43 to 47, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is a reversible chemical or physical change, whereby at least one heating article may be used multiple times. Example 49: A kit of parts according to any one of Examples 43 to 48, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is initiated by applying an electric current to at least one heating article. Example 50: A kit of parts according to any one of examples 43 to 48, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is initiated by heating at least one heating article. Example 51: A kit of parts according to any one of examples 43 to 48, wherein the exothermic chemical or physical change is initiated by mechanical agitation of at least one of the heating articles.

[0155] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0156] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first aerosol generating device according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first aerosol generation system according to the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first aerosol generation system according to the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first aerosol generation system according to the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of aerosol generating elements received within a consumable chamber of a second aerosol generating device according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of aerosol generating elements received within a consumable chamber of a third aerosol generating device according to the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of aerosol generating elements received within a consumable chamber and a plurality of heating articles received within a heating chamber of a fourth aerosol generating device according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0157] 1 to 4 illustrate an aerosol generating device of the present invention and an aerosol generating system of the present invention in four different stages of use.

[0158] Each of Figures 1-4 illustrates an aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 comprises a heating chamber 101 for receiving at least one heating article (not shown) and a consumable chamber 102 for receiving at least one aerosol generating element 108. The heating chamber 101 comprises a heating chamber opening 105 at a downstream end thereof to allow the heating article to be inserted into and removed from the heating chamber 101. The consumable chamber 102 comprises a consumable chamber opening 104 at a downstream end thereof to allow the aerosol generating element 108 to be inserted into and removed from the consumable chamber 102.

[0159] The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises a closure 106. The closure 106 is movable between an open position, shown in Figures 1 and 2, and a closed position, shown in Figures 3 and 4. When the closure 106 is in the open position, the aerosol generating element 108 may be inserted into and removed from the consumable chamber 102 through the consumable chamber opening 104, and the heating article may be inserted into and removed from the heating chamber 101 through the heating chamber opening 105. When the closure 106 is in the closed position, the aerosol generating element 108 and the heating article are securely held within the consumable chamber 102 and the heating chamber 101, respectively. In the open position, the closure 106 is completely removable from the remainder of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0160] The closure 106 includes an airflow passage 107 that extends from an upstream end of the closure 106 to a downstream end of the closure 106. When the closure 106 is in the closed position, the downstream end of the closure 106 is adjacent the opening 104 of the consumable chamber 102. In this manner, the opening 104 of the consumable chamber 102 is in fluid communication with the airflow passage 107 such that air may pass from the consumable chamber 102, through the airflow passage 107, and out of the aerosol generation device 100 when the closure 106 is in the closed position. In this manner, the closure 106 comprises a mouthpiece of the aerosol generation device.

[0161] The consumable chamber 102 is completely separated from the heating chamber 101 such that air cannot pass from the consumable chamber 102 to the heating chamber 101 during use. The consumable chamber 102 comprises a layer of copper foil (not shown) disposed between the consumable chamber 102 and the heating chamber 101. The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises an outer housing 109 comprising a polymeric material. The heating chamber 101 further comprises a gas outlet (not shown) at an upstream end of the heating chamber 101.

[0162] The consumable chamber 102 is cylindrical in shape and extends between an upstream end and a downstream end, with an opening 104 of the consumable chamber 102 disposed at the downstream end of the consumable chamber.

[0163] The heating chamber 101 is in the shape of a toroidal cylinder with the cylindrical consumable chamber 102 located at the center of the heating chamber 101 along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation device 100. In other words, the heating chamber 101 completely surrounds the consumable chamber 102 along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation device. The opening 105 of the heating chamber 101 is also toroidal in shape. The heating chamber 101 and the consumable chamber 102 are substantially the same length.

[0164] The heating article used in the aerosol generating device 100 is substantially the same shape as the heating chamber 101 and includes a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate enclosed within a polymeric container.

[0165] The aerosol generating elements 108 include a solid continuous matrix structure and an aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure. All of the aerosol generating elements 108 are the same size and shape. The aerosol generating elements are spherical in shape. The diameter of the aerosol generating elements 108 is just slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the consumable chamber 102. The consumable chamber 102 is sized to accommodate five aerosol generating elements 108 in an order that is determined when a user inserts the aerosol generating elements 108 into the consumable chamber 102.

[0166] During use, the closure 106 is removed from the remainder of the aerosol generating device 100. As shown in Figure 2, a user can then insert up to five aerosol generating elements 108 into the consumable chamber 102 through the openings 104. A heating article is inserted into the heating chamber 101 through opening 105. The closure 106 is then moved from an open position to a closed position to securely hold the heating articles and aerosol generating elements 108.

[0167] As shown in FIG. 3, when a user desires to begin the experience, the aerosol generating device 100 is shaken or otherwise mechanically agitated. This agitation activates the heating article. Specifically, the agitation initiates the crystallization of the supersaturated sodium acetate. This exothermic process releases heat. As shown in FIG. 4, the heat from the heating article warms the five aerosol generating elements, causing the aerosol generating elements 108 to emit an aerosol. The aerosol exits through the outlet 104 of the consumable chamber 102, through the airflow passage 107 of the closure 106, and out of the device.

[0168] After the user experience, the closure 106 is moved to the open position shown in Figures 1 and 2. The used aerosol generating element 108 is removed from the consumable chamber 102 through the opening 104. The used heating article is removed from the heating chamber 101 through the opening 105. The used heating article is then heated, for example by adding it to boiling water, to dissolve the crystallized sodium acetate and form a supersaturated solution again, allowing the heating article to be used again.

[0169] A cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol generating device 100 is shown in Figure 5. The aerosol generating elements are shown disposed inside the consumable chamber 102.

[0170] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating device 100. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the aerosol generating elements 208 are cylindrical rather than spherical as shown in Figures 1-4. The cylindrical aerosol generating elements 208 have a diameter that is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the consumable chamber 102. Each of the cylindrical aerosol generating elements 208 have the same height.

[0171] FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating device 100. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the aerosol generating element 308 is cylindrical. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the heating article 310 is toroidal shaped and fits inside the heating chamber 101, which has the shape of a toroidal cylinder. Unlike the embodiments of FIGS. 1-4, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the aerosol generating system includes three individual heating articles 310. Each heating article 310 has similar dimensions but is configured to generate different amounts of heat when activated. The embodiment of FIG. 7 includes three aerosol generating elements 308. Each of the three aerosol generating elements 308 has similar dimensions. In addition, each of the heating articles 310 has substantially the same height as each of the aerosol generating elements 308 when each of the three heating articles 310 is aligned with a corresponding aerosol generating element 308. The heating article 310 adjacent to each aerosol generating element 308 is configured to heat that aerosol generating element 308 to an optimal temperature for generating an aerosol for that aerosol generating element 308 .

[0172] In the aerosol generating device 100 illustrated in Figures 1-7, the heating chamber 101 of the aerosol generating device 100 includes a longitudinal opening into which the consumable chamber 102 of the aerosol generating device 100 is disposed. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the consumable chamber of the aerosol generating device may include a longitudinal opening into which the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device is disposed. For example, in an alternative arrangement, an aerosol generating device may be provided having substantially the same structure as the aerosol generating device 100 illustrated in Figure 7, but the positions of the heating chamber 101 and the consumable chamber 102 are reversed such that the heating chamber 101 is disposed within the longitudinal opening of the consumable chamber 102. In such an alternative arrangement, the aerosol generating element 308 is toroidal in shape and fits inside the consumable chamber 102 having the shape of a toroidal cylinder, and the heating article 310 is cylindrical in shape and fits inside the heating chamber 101 having the shape of a cylindrical cylinder. Locating the heating chamber 101 within the consumable chamber 102 may advantageously ensure that a greater proportion of the heat generated within the heating chamber 101 is transferred to the consumable chamber 102 .

[0173] Of course, in the above embodiments, heating articles and aerosol generating elements having other shapes and sizes may be used in the aerosol generating device, provided they are sized to fit within the heating chamber and consumable chamber, respectively.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: An aerosol generating device, comprising: A mouthpiece and A heating chamber; at least one heating item disposed within the heating chamber; a consumable chamber in fluid communication with the mouthpiece, the consumable chamber having an opening and a closure movable between an open position in which a plurality of aerosol generating elements may be inserted into or removed from the consumable chamber through the opening, and a closed position in which the plurality of aerosol generating elements are retained within the consumable chamber; a plurality of aerosol-generating elements disposed within the consumable chamber.

2. 10. The aerosol generation system of claim 1, wherein the heating chamber and the consumable chamber are isolated from each other such that the heating chamber is not in fluid communication with the consumable chamber.

3. 10. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the heating chamber includes an opening so that at least one heating item may be inserted into and removed from the heating chamber.

4. 4. The aerosol generation system of claim 3, wherein the closure of the consumable chamber also closes the opening of the heating chamber, such that when the closure is in the open position, at least one heating item may be inserted into or removed from the heating chamber, and when the closure is in the closed position, the at least one heating item is retained within the heating chamber.

5. 2. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the closure comprises the mouthpiece.

6. The aerosol generating system of claim 1 , further comprising a thermally conductive element disposed between the heating chamber and the consumable chamber.

7. 10. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, further comprising an outer housing, the outer housing being thermally insulating.

8. 10. The aerosol generation system of claim 1, wherein the heating chamber comprises a longitudinal opening into which the consumable chamber is disposed.

9. 10. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the heating chamber is formed from an elastically deformable material.

10. 10. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the heating chamber is configured to receive at least one heating item configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change.

11. 10. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the heating chamber is configured to receive at least one heating item that generates heat without electrical power.

12. 12. An aerosol generation system as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the heating chamber is divided into a first heating chamber section and a second heating chamber section by a heating chamber barrier, whereby a first heating item disposed in the first heating chamber section is kept separate from a second heating item disposed in the second heating chamber section.

13. An aerosol generating device, comprising: A mouthpiece and a consumable chamber for receiving at least one aerosol generating element, the consumable chamber being in fluid communication with the mouthpiece and comprising an opening and a closure movable between an open position in which the at least one aerosol generating element may be inserted into or removed from the consumable chamber through an opening, and a closed position in which the at least one aerosol generating element is retained within the consumable chamber; a heating chamber for receiving at least one heating item, the heating chamber being disposed within a longitudinal opening in the consumable chamber.

14. 14. A kit of parts comprising the aerosol generating device of claim 13, at least one heating article sized to be received within the heating chamber, and at least one aerosol generating element sized to be received within the consumable chamber.

15. The kit of parts of claim 14 , wherein the at least one heating item is configured to generate heat by an exothermic chemical or physical change.

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