Aerosol delivery device with actuatable igniter contacts and dual-purpose slider actuator

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery device (100) including an actuatable igniter contact for use with a removable and replaceable cartridge. The device includes a holder (102) defining a receiving chamber (110) configured to receive a cartridge (106), the cartridge including an ignitable heat source (120) and a substrate portion (122) comprising an aerosol precursor composition. The device further includes a mouthpiece (104) defining a first aerosol passage (150) and a second aerosol passage (154), and a power source (112) disposed therein. The actuatable igniter contact is configured to engage the ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber and is movable between a first position spaced from the ignitable heat source and a second position in contact with the ignitable heat source. The device may also include a dual-purpose actuator assembly (108) coupled to the holder and configured to ignite the ignitable heat source and eject the removable cartridge.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices and systems such as smoking articles, and more particularly applies to aerosol delivery devices and systems that utilize a heat source, such as a combustible carbon-based ignition source, for the generation of an aerosol (e.g., smoking articles intended to obtain components of tobacco, tobacco extracts, nicotine, synthetic nicotine, non-nicotine flavors, and other materials in inhalable form, commonly referred to as non-combustion heating systems or e-cigarettes). Components of such articles may be manufactured or derived from tobacco, or the articles may otherwise be characterized as incorporating tobacco for human consumption, and may be capable of vaporizing components of tobacco and / or other tobacco-related materials to form an inhalable aerosol for human consumption. [Background technology]

[0002] Many smoking articles have been proposed over the years as improvements or replacements for smoking articles based on tobacco combustion. Exemplary alternatives include devices that burn solid or liquid fuels to transfer heat to the tobacco or use chemical reactions to provide such a heat source. Examples include the smoking articles described in U.S. Patent No. 9,078,473 to Worm et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] The focus of improvements or replacements for smoking articles has typically been to provide the sensations associated with cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking without delivering significant amounts of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products. To this end, many smoking products, flavor generators, and medicinal inhalers have been proposed that utilize electrical energy to vaporize or heat volatile materials or attempt to provide the sensations of cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking without significantly burning tobacco. See, for example, the various alternative smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and heat sources described in the background art of U.S. Pat. No. 7,726,320 to Robinson et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 to Griffith, Jr. et al., and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 to Sears et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference. See also, for example, the various types of smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and electrically-powered heating sources referenced by trade name and commercial source in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0220232 to Bless et al., which is incorporated herein by reference. Additional types of smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and electrically-powered heating sources referenced by trade name and commercial source are listed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245659 to DePiano et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Other representative cigarettes or smoking articles that have been described, and in some cases are commercially available, include U.S. Pat. No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al.; U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,922,901, 4,947,874, and 4,947,875 to Brooks et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,060,671 to Counts et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,249,586 to Morgan et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,249,586 to Counts ... No. 5,388,594; U.S. Patent No. 5,666,977 to Higgins et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,053,176 to Adams et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,164,287 to White; U.S. Patent No. 6,196,218 to Voges; U.S. Patent No. 6,810,883 to Felter et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,854,461 to Nichols; U.S. Patent No. 7,832,476 to Hon; U.S. Patent No. 7,832,476 to Kobayashi; No. 7,896,006 to Hamano; U.S. Patent No. 6,772,756 to Shayan; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0095311 to Hon; U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2006 / 0196518, 2009 / 0126745, and 2009 / 0188490 to Hon; U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2009 / 0188490 to Thorens et al. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0272379 to Monsees et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2009 / 0260641 and 2009 / 0260642 to Oglesby et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2008 / 0149118 and 2010 / 0024834 to Oglesby et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0307518 to Wang; and WO 2010 / 091593 to Hon.

[0004] Various methods and methods have been proposed for assembling smoking articles having multiple segmented components arranged in series. For example, various types of assembly techniques and methods are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,469,871 to Barnes et al. and U.S. Patent No. 7,647,932 to Crooks et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0186757 to Crooks et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0042885 to Stone et al., and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 00673620 to Conner et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0005] Certain types of cigarettes that use carbonaceous fuel elements are marketed by RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company under the trade names "Premier," "Eclipse," and "Revo." See, for example, the types of cigarettes described in "Chemical and Biological Studies on New Cigarette Prototypes that Heat Instead of Burn Tobacco," RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company Monograph (1988) and Inhalation Toxicology, 12:5, pp. 1-58 (2000). Similar cigarettes are also sold in Japan by Japan Tobacco Inc. under the trade name "Steam Hot One."

[0006] In some cases, some smoking articles, particularly those using conventional paper wrappers, are also prone to scorching of the wrapper material covering the ignitable fuel source due to the high temperatures achieved by the fuel source in close proximity to the wrapper material. This can reduce the enjoyment of the smoking experience for some consumers and can mask or undesirably alter the flavor delivered to the consumer by the aerosol-delivery component of the smoking article. In a further example, conventional types of smoking articles can produce relatively significant levels of gases, such as carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide, during use (e.g., as products of carbon combustion). In yet another example, conventional types of smoking articles can suffer from poor performance with respect to aerosolizing aerosol-forming components.

[0007] It would thus be desirable to provide a smoking article that addresses one or more of the technical problems sometimes associated with conventional types of smoking articles, and in particular, it would be desirable to provide a smoking article that is easy to use and provides reusable and / or replaceable components. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 9,078,473 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 [Patent Document 5] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0220232 [Patent Document 6] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245659 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 4,735,217 [Patent Document 8] U.S. Patent No. 4,922,901 [Patent Document 9] U.S. Patent No. 4,947,874 [Patent Document 10] U.S. Patent No. 4,947,875 [Patent Document 11] U.S. Patent No. 5,060,671 [Patent Document 12] U.S. Patent No. 5,249,586 [Patent Document 13] U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 [Patent Document 14] U.S. Patent No. 5,666,977 [Patent Document 15] U.S. Patent No. 6,053,176 [Patent Document 16] U.S. Patent No. 6,164,287 [Patent Document 17] U.S. Patent No. 6,196,218 [Patent Document 18] U.S. Patent No. 6,810,883 [Patent Document 19] U.S. Patent No. 6,854,461 [Patent Document 20] U.S. Patent No. 7,832,476 [Patent Document 21] U.S. Patent No. 7,513,253 [Patent Document 22] U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 [Patent Document 23] U.S. Patent No. 7,896,006 [Patent Document 24] U.S. Patent No. 6,772,756 [Patent Document 25] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0095311 [Patent Document 26] US Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 0196518 [Patent Document 27] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0126745 [Patent Document 28] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0188490 [Patent Document 29] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0272379 [Patent Document 30] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0260641 [Patent Document 31] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0260642 [Patent Document 32] US Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0149118 [Patent Document 33] US Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0024834 [Patent Document 34] US Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0307518 [Patent Document 35] International Publication No. 2010 / 091593 [Patent Document 36] U.S. Patent No. 5,469,871 [Patent Document 37] U.S. Patent No. 7,647,932 [Patent Document 38] US Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0186757 [Patent Document 39] US Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0042885 [Patent Document 40] US Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 00673620 [Non-patent literature]

[0009] [Non-Patent Document 1] Chemical and Biological Studies on New Cigarette Prototypes that Heat Instead of Burn Tobacco, RJReynolds Tobacco Company Monograph(1988) [Non-patent document 2] Inhalation Toxicology, 12:5, pp. 1-58 (2000) Summary of the Invention

[0010] In various embodiments, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery device and dual-purpose slider actuator for use with a removable and replaceable cartridge. The present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following exemplary embodiments. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] Embodiment 1: An aerosol delivery device comprising: a holder having a body defining a proximal end and a distal end, the body further defining a receiving chamber configured to receive a removable cartridge comprising an ignitable heat source and a first aerosol passage extending through at least a portion of the body; a mouthpiece including a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end, with a second aerosol passage extending longitudinally therebetween, the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with the proximal end of the holder; a power source disposed within the body; and a dual-purpose actuator assembly coupled to the holder and configured to ignite the ignitable heat source to eject the removable cartridge.

[0012] Embodiment 2: The aerosol delivery device of embodiment 1, wherein the dual-purpose actuator assembly comprises: a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and defining a receptacle configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along the length of the body; a spring-loaded push button coupled to the slider body to move the dual-purpose actuator assembly between a loading position, a writing position, and an ejecting position, the spring-loaded push button configured to engage with an electrical contact when in the writing position; and a spring assembly configured to engage with the slider body and bias the dual-purpose actuator assembly to a loading position, which may also be referred to as a neutral position.

[0013] Embodiment 3: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 1 and 2 or any combination thereof, wherein the dual-purpose actuator assembly comprises: a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and comprising an upper track, a lower track, and a collar connecting the upper track and the lower track to define a receptacle configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along the length of the body; a spring-loaded push button engageable with the upper track of the slider body to move the dual-purpose actuator assembly between a loading position, a writing position, and an ejecting position, the spring-loaded push button configured to engage with an electrical contact when in the writing position; and a spring assembly configured to engage with the slider body and bias the dual-purpose actuator assembly to a loading position, which may also be referred to as a neutral position.

[0014] Embodiment 4: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 3 or any combination thereof, wherein the receiving chamber comprises: an end cap engaged with the distal end of the body and defining an opening configured to receive a removable cartridge; an outlet guide coupled to the slider body and slidably disposed within the body through the end cap, the outlet guide defining a passage configured to pass the removable cartridge; and an inner slider seal body disposed within a receptacle in the slider body and sealingly coupled to the receptacle, the inner slider seal body defining a cavity configured to sealingly engage with the removable cartridge to removably secure the removable cartridge therein.

[0015] Embodiment 5: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 4 or any combination thereof, further comprising a pair of actuatable igniter contacts coupled to the dual-purpose actuator assembly, positioned proximate the distal end of the receiving chamber, and configured to be engaged with an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber.

[0016] Embodiment 6: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 5 or any combination thereof, wherein the dual-purpose actuator assembly further comprises: a first contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive one of a pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the first contact arm being actuated through contact with a lower track of the slider body when the dual-purpose actuator assembly is moved to a lighting position; and a second contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive the other of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second contact arm being actuated through contact with a lower track of the slider body when the dual-purpose actuator assembly is moved to a lighting position, wherein actuation of the first and second contact arms moves the igniter contact into contact with an ignitable heat source.

[0017] Embodiment 7: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 6 or any combination thereof, wherein the holder defines a slot through its surface, and the upper track of the slider body is sealingly engaged with the holder around the slot so that the spring-loaded push button is slidably received within the slot.

[0018] Embodiment 8: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 7 or any combination thereof, further comprising an inner housing disposed within the body of the holder, and a printed circuit board in electrical communication with the power source and having electrical contacts, wherein the inner housing is configured to receive the power source and the printed circuit board.

[0019] Embodiment 9: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 8 or any combination thereof, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a charging port, and the printed circuit board is oriented within the inner housing so that the charging port is located at the proximal end of the holder.

[0020] Embodiment 10: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 9 or any combination thereof, wherein the receptacle of the slider body has an inner stem engageable with one end of the removable cartridge and defines a passage for passing aerosol generated from the removable cartridge.

[0021] Embodiment 11: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 10 or any combination thereof, wherein the outlet guide comprises a pair of opposing slots configured to allow the igniter contacts to pass through and engage an ignitable heat source.

[0022] Embodiment 12: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 11 or any combination thereof, wherein the mouthpiece is removable.

[0023] Embodiment 13: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 12 or any combination thereof, wherein the end cap is translucent and configured to allow light from an ignitable heat source to pass through when lit.

[0024] Embodiment 14: An aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 1 to 13 or any combination thereof, wherein the device defines a combined vapor path extending from the proximal end of the removable cartridge, through an internal passage of the dual-purpose actuator assembly, into the inner housing, along at least a channel defined by the inner surfaces of the inner housing and the holder, and into the mouthpiece.

[0025] Embodiment 15: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 14 or any combination thereof, wherein the inner stem is configured to engage with and eject the removable cartridge when the dual-purpose actuator assembly is moved to the ejection position.

[0026] Embodiment 16: An aerosol delivery device comprising: a holder comprising an upper body portion and a lower body portion, each of which defines a proximal end and a distal end, the lower body portion further defining a receiving chamber disposed therein and configured to receive a removable cartridge having an ignitable heat source, the upper body portion having a power source disposed therein; and a sliding actuator assembly slidably disposed within the upper body portion and configured to eject the removable cartridge from the lower body portion and defining a first aerosol passage, wherein the upper body portion and the lower body portion are movably coupled together (e.g., rotatably, slidably, or hingedly). The device further includes a mouthpiece having a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end with a second aerosol passageway extending longitudinally between the first and second ends, the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with a proximal end of the upper body portion. The mouthpiece may be removably coupled to the upper body portion. The upper body portion may also include a printed circuit board and associated electronics (e.g., a controller).

[0027] Embodiment 17: The aerosol delivery device of embodiment 16, further comprising a pair of actuatable igniter contacts coupled to the lower body portion and positioned adjacent to the distal end of the lower body portion, the actuatable igniter contacts configured to be engaged with an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber.

[0028] Embodiment 18: The aerosol delivery device of either of embodiments 16 and 17 or any combination thereof, wherein the sliding actuator assembly comprises: a tubular body defining a portion of the second aerosol passage and configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along a portion of the upper body portion; a first protrusion extending from an outer surface of the tubular body and configured to extend through an opening in a wall of the upper body portion to effect movement of the tubular body in the first and second directions; and a second protrusion extending from a distal end of the tubular body and configured to engage with a removable cartridge to advance the removable cartridge through the distal end of the lower body portion when the tubular body is moved in the first or second direction. The tubular body may comprise a substantially hollow body and may have a cross-sectional shape such as, for example, a circular, oval, rectangular, triangular, or any combination of arcuate and linear elements.

[0029] Embodiment 19: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 16 to 18 or any combination thereof, wherein the sliding actuator further comprises a sealing arrangement for sealingly engaging with an inner surface of the upper body portion, e.g., to prevent aerosol leakage or air ingress. The sealing arrangement may include one or more O-rings disposed along and / or around the actuator.

[0030] Embodiment 20: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 16 to 19 or any combination thereof, further comprising a locking mechanism disposed on at least one of the lower body portion or the upper body portion and configured to maintain the device in a closed orientation. The locking mechanism may include one or more of a magnet, friction, a snap fit, etc.

[0031] Embodiment 21: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 16 to 20 or any combination thereof, wherein the lower body portion comprises a window disposed therein and configured to provide a view of at least a portion of the removable cartridge.

[0032] Embodiment 22: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 16 to 21 or any combination thereof, wherein the lower body portion is rotatable relative to the upper body portion to expose the receiving chamber (i.e., open form) and load the removable cartridge therein.

[0033] Embodiment 23: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 16 to 22 or any combination thereof, wherein one or more portions of the first protrusion, the second protrusion, or both extend into a portion of the second aerosol passage defined in the tubular body such that the aerosol generated by the cartridge is divided into one or more portions as it travels through the tubular body.

[0034] Embodiment 24: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 16 to 23 or any combination thereof, wherein the tubular body comprises longitudinally oriented baffles extending inward from its inner wall, the baffles dividing the aerosol traveling through the tubular body.

[0035] Embodiment 25: An aerosol delivery device comprising: a holder having a body defining a proximal end and a distal end, the body further defining a receiving chamber configured to receive a removable cartridge comprising an ignitable heat source and a passageway extending through at least a portion of the body; a mouthpiece configured to engage a user's mouth; a power source disposed within the body; and a pair of actuatable igniter contacts disposed proximate the distal end of the body and configured to engage with the ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber, the pair of actuatable igniter contacts being movably coupled to the holder and movable between a first position (also referred to as an open position or configuration) spaced apart from the ignitable heat source and a second position (also referred to as a closed position or configuration) in contact with the ignitable heat source. In some embodiments, the passageway is configured as a first aerosol passageway extending from proximal to proximal to the proximal end of the holder. Further, the mouthpiece may include a first end and a longitudinally opposite second end, with a second aerosol passage extending longitudinally between the first end and the second end, the first end configured to engage with the user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with the proximal end of the holder.

[0036] Embodiment 26: An aerosol delivery device of embodiment 25, wherein each of the actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongate body and a contact portion disposed at a distal end thereof, the proximal end of the elongate body being rotatably coupled to the body, and the contact portions being rotatable toward each other to a second position.

[0037] Embodiment 27: An aerosol delivery device of either of embodiments 25 and 26 or any combination thereof, wherein the pair of actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongated body extending between the actuatable igniter contacts, the elongated body being coupled to the body and shaped to at least partially surround the removable cartridge such that the actuatable igniter contacts are deflectable toward each other to a second position.

[0038] Embodiment 28: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 27 or any combination thereof, wherein each of the actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongated body and a contact portion disposed at a distal end thereof, the elongated body being rotatably coupled to the main body and shaped to bias the igniter contact to a first position.

[0039] Embodiment 29: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 28 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuatable igniter contact is in electrical communication with a power source.

[0040] Embodiment 30: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 29 or any combination thereof, further comprising an actuator assembly coupled to the holder and configured to move the actuatable igniter contact between the first position and the second position.

[0041] Embodiment 31: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 30 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly is configured to couple the actuatable igniter contact to the holder.

[0042] Embodiment 32: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 31 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly moves the igniter contact to place it in electrical communication with the power source.

[0043] Embodiment 33: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 32 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly comprises: a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and defining a receptacle configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along a length of the body; an actuator coupled to the slider body and configured to move the actuator assembly between a loading position, a lighting position, and an ejecting position; and a spring assembly engaged with the slider body and configured to bias the actuator assembly toward the loading position or the neutral position. The actuator assembly is configured to engage an igniter contact operable to move the igniter contact from the first position to the second position.

[0044] Embodiment 34: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 33 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises a spring-loaded push button coupled to the slider body and configured to be engageable with the electrical contacts when in the lighting position to deliver current to the igniter contacts when pressed.

[0045] Embodiment 35: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 34 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly comprises: a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder; an actuator coupled to the slider body and configured to move the slider body in a first direction and a second direction along the length of the body; a first contact arm pivotally coupled to the body or the slider body and configured to receive one of a pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the first contact arm being actuated through contact with the slider body when the slider body is moved in the first direction; a second contact arm pivotally coupled to the body or the slider body and configured to receive the other of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second contact arm being actuated through contact with the slider body when the slider body is moved in the first direction; and a biasing mechanism that engages with the slider body to bias the slider body in the second direction. Actuation of the first and second contact arms moves the igniter contacts from a first position to a second position.

[0046] Embodiment 36: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 35 or any combination thereof, further comprising an actuator assembly coupled to the holder and configured to move the cartridge between a loading position, a writing position, and an ejecting position, the actuator assembly comprising: a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and defining a receptacle configured to at least partially receive the removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along the length of the body; an actuator coupled to the slider body and configured to move the actuator assembly between the loading position, the writing position, and the ejecting position; and a spring assembly configured to engage with the slider body and bias the actuator assembly toward the writing position.

[0047] Embodiment 37: An actuator assembly further comprising: a first button assembly movably disposed within the holder proximate a first igniter contact of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts; a first contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive the elongated body of the first igniter contact, the first contact arm actuated through contact with the first button assembly to pivot the first igniter contact from its first position to its second position; and a second igniter contact of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts. 37. The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 36 or any combination thereof, comprising: a second button assembly movably disposed in the holder adjacent to the first button assembly, the second button assembly being oriented in a direction substantially opposite to the first button assembly; and a second contact arm pivotably coupled to the body and configured to receive the elongated body of the second igniter contact, the second contact arm being actuated through contact with the second button assembly to rotate the second igniter contact from its first position to its second position.

[0048] Embodiment 38: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 25 to 37 or any combination thereof, wherein actuation of the first and second button assemblies delivers electrical energy to an ignitable heat source.

[0049] Embodiment 39: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 25 to 38 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly comprises: a first button assembly movably disposed within the holder proximate a first igniter contact of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts; and a second button assembly movably disposed within the holder proximate a second igniter contact of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second button assembly oriented substantially opposite the first button assembly. Actuation of the first and second button assemblies moves the first and second actuatable igniter contacts from their first positions to their second positions. Their arrangement allows the buttons to be easily actuated simultaneously.

[0050] Embodiment 40: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 39 or any combination thereof, further comprising a first contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to pivotally couple the first igniter contact to the body, and a second contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to pivotally couple the second igniter contact to the body, wherein the first and second button assemblies are in contact with the first and second contact arms, respectively, such that actuation of the first and second button assemblies rotates the first and second igniter contacts to their second positions.

[0051] Embodiment 41: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 25 to 40 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises a biasing mechanism configured to engage with the first and second button assemblies and bias the first and second button assemblies outwardly toward a neutral position, i.e., so that the actuatable igniter contacts are in their first position.

[0052] Embodiment 42: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 41 or any combination thereof, wherein each of the first and second button assemblies is coupled to the holder via a biasing mechanism configured to maintain the first and second button assemblies in a neutral position.

[0053] Embodiment 43: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 43 or any combination thereof, further comprising an inner housing disposed within the body of the holder and a printed circuit board in electrical communication with the power source, wherein the inner housing is configured to receive the power source and the printed circuit board.

[0054] Embodiment 44: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 25 to 44 or any combination thereof, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a charging port, and the printed circuit board is oriented within the inner housing so that the charging port is accessible through one end of the holder.

[0055] Embodiment 45: The upper and lower body portions each define a proximal end and a distal end. a holder having an upper body portion and a lower body portion, the lower body portion further defining a receiving chamber disposed at a proximal end thereof and configured to receive a removable cartridge having an ignitable heat source and a first aerosol passage, the upper body portion having a power source disposed therein and defining a second aerosol passage therethrough, the upper and lower body portions being movably coupled to one another; a mouthpiece configured to engage with a user's mouth; and a pair of actuable igniter contacts movably coupled to the lower body portion and located proximate to a distal end of the lower body portion, the pair of actuable igniter contacts being engageable with the ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber and configured to be movable between a first position spaced apart from the ignitable heat source and a second position in contact with the ignitable heat source. The mouthpiece may include a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end, with a third aerosol passage extending longitudinally between the first and second ends, the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with the proximal end of the upper body portion.

[0056] Embodiment 46: The aerosol delivery device of embodiment 45, further comprising an actuator assembly coupled to the lower body portion and configured to move the actuatable igniter contact between the first position and the second position.

[0057] Embodiment 47: An aerosol delivery device of either of embodiments 45 and 46 or any combination thereof, wherein each of the actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongated body and a contact portion disposed at its distal end, the proximal end of the elongated body being rotatably coupled to the lower body portion, and the contact portions being rotatable toward each other to a second position.

[0058] Embodiment 48: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 45 to 47 or any combination thereof, wherein the pair of actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongated body extending between the actuatable igniter contacts, the elongated body being coupled to the body and shaped to at least partially surround the removable cartridge such that the actuatable igniter contacts are deflectable toward each other to a second position.

[0059] Embodiment 49: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 45 to 48 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuatable igniter contact is in electrical communication with a power source.

[0060] Embodiment 50: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 45 to 49 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly comprises: a first button assembly movably disposed within the lower body portion proximate a first igniter contact of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts; and a second button assembly movably disposed within the lower body portion proximate a second igniter contact of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second button assembly oriented in a direction substantially opposite to the first button assembly. Actuation of the first and second button assemblies moves the first and second actuatable igniter contacts from their first positions to their second positions.

[0061] Embodiment 51: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 45 to 50 or any combination thereof, wherein each of the first and second button assemblies is coupled to the holder via a biasing mechanism configured to maintain the first and second button assemblies in a neutral position.

[0062] Embodiment 52: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 45 to 51 or any combination thereof, wherein the lower body portion comprises a window disposed therein and configured to provide a view of at least one pair of actuatable igniter contacts.

[0063] Embodiment 53: A holder comprising a body defining a proximal end and a distal end, the body further defining a receiving chamber configured to receive a removable cartridge comprising an ignitable heat source and a first passageway extending at least partially therethrough; and a removable mouthpiece assembly configured to engage the proximal end of the holder, the mouthpiece assembly being defined by a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end and defining a second passageway extending therethrough, the first end configured to engage a user's mouth and the second end sealingly engaging the removable cartridge and having the removable cartridge therein. an aerosol delivery device comprising: a removable mouthpiece assembly configured to removably secure a cartridge, the second end of the removable mouthpiece assembly being positionable within a first passage of the body to position at least a portion of the cartridge within the receiving chamber; a power source disposed within the body; and a pair of actuable igniter contacts disposed proximate to a distal end of the body and configured to be engaged with an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber, the pair of actuable igniter contacts being movably coupled to the holder and movable between a first position spaced apart from the ignitable heat source and a second position in contact with the ignitable heat source.

[0064] Embodiment 54: The aerosol delivery device of embodiment 53, further comprising a first biasing mechanism engaged with the igniter contact and configured to bias the igniter contact to the first position.

[0065] Embodiment 55: An aerosol delivery device of either embodiment 53 or 54 or any combination thereof, wherein each of the actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongated body and a contact portion disposed at a distal end thereof, the elongated body being rotatably coupled to an end cap disposed within the distal end of the holder, and the contact portions being rotatable toward each other to a second position.

[0066] Embodiment 56: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 55 or any combination thereof, further comprising an actuator assembly disposed within the holder and configured to actuate the igniter contact between a first position and a second position.

[0067] Embodiment 57: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 56 or any combination thereof, wherein the actuator assembly comprises a solenoid in electrical communication with a power source, and a collar engageable with the proximal ends of the solenoid and the elongated body of the igniter contact, respectively, and configured to advance and contact the elongated body when the solenoid is energized to rotate the igniter contact to a second position.

[0068] Embodiment 58: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 57 or any combination thereof, wherein the collar is configured to retract from the elongate body when the solenoid is de-energized so that the igniter contact returns to the first position. Retraction may be achieved by a first biasing mechanism, a spring-return solenoid, or a bidirectional solenoid (e.g., biased to provide linear movement in both directions).

[0069] Embodiment 59: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 58 or any combination thereof, further comprising a printed circuit board disposed within the holder and in electrical communication with the igniter contacts, and a switch in electrical communication with the power source and the printed circuit board and configured to electrically couple the power source to the igniter contacts.

[0070] Embodiment 60: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 59 or any combination thereof, wherein the switch is also configured to electrically couple a power source to the solenoid. In some embodiments, the solenoid may be powered via other means (e.g., pneumatically).

[0071] Embodiment 61: A removable mouthpiece assembly comprising an elongate body defined by a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end, the first portion defining at least a portion of the second passageway; a second portion defined by the second end longitudinally opposed to the first end and defining a first aerosol passageway therethrough, the first end of the second portion configured to engage a user's mouth, the second end being partially disposed within the second passageway of the first portion of the mouthpiece assembly proximate the first end of the first portion; and a slider body defined by the second end longitudinally opposed to the first end and defining a second aerosol passageway therethrough, the slider body being slidably disposed within the first portion of the mouthpiece assembly, the first end of the slider body coupled to the second end of the second portion of the mouthpiece assembly, and the second end of the slider body engaging a removable cartridge. 61. The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 60 or any combination thereof, comprising: a slider body configured to at least partially accept the slider body; an inner tubular body defining a receptacle defined by a first end and a second end longitudinally opposite thereto and having a second biasing mechanism disposed therein, wherein the receptacle is configured to at least partially receive the slider body, the slider body being slidably coupled to the inner tubular body, the second end of the inner tubular body being configured to engage with the first part of the mouthpiece proximate the second end of the first part, and the second biasing mechanism being configured to maintain the slider body in a loaded configuration; and an outlet guide coupled to the second end of the first part of the mouthpiece and partially received within the second end of the inner tubular body, the outlet guide defining a cavity configured to sealingly engage with the removable cartridge to removably secure the removable cartridge therein.

[0072] Embodiment 62: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 61 or any combination thereof, wherein the holder further comprises: an inner housing disposed within the body of the holder and defining one or more receptacles therein, wherein a proximal end of the inner housing is coupled to the proximal end of the holder and defines a first opening therethrough; an outer tubular body disposed within a first of the receptacles and defining at least a portion of the first passageway and configured to slidably receive the mouthpiece assembly therein; and an end cap coupled to the distal end of the holder and defining a second opening in communication with the first passageway of the outer tubular body, wherein the end cap is configured to secure at least one of the inner housing or the outer tubular body within the holder. In some embodiments, the inner housing comprises an upper inner housing and a lower inner housing.

[0073] Embodiment 63: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 62 or any combination thereof, wherein the holder comprises a retention mechanism, e.g., magnetic or frictional engagement, configured to movably couple the mouthpiece assembly to the holder.

[0074] Embodiment 64: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 63 or any combination thereof, wherein the end cap further comprises a standoff extending into the inner housing, the standoff partially defining the receiving chamber and configured to pivotally engage with the actuatable igniter contact.

[0075] Embodiment 65: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 64 or any combination thereof, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a charging port, and the printed circuit board is oriented within the inner housing so that the charging port is positioned through the side wall of the holder.

[0076] Embodiment 66: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 65 or any combination thereof, wherein the second end of the slider body is provided with a stem configured to engage with and eject a removable cartridge upon application of force against the second portion of the mouthpiece.

[0077] Embodiment 67: An aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 53 to 66 or any combination thereof, wherein the second end of the second part of the mouthpiece is configured to engage with the first end of the slider body via at least one of complementary threaded surfaces for threaded engagement, press-fit engagement, snap-fit ​​engagement, or magnetic engagement.

[0078] Embodiment 68: An aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 53 to 67, or any combination thereof, wherein the second end of the inner tubular body is configured to engage with the inner surface of the first portion of the mouthpiece via at least one of complementary threaded surfaces for threaded engagement, press-fit engagement, snap-fit ​​engagement, or magnetic engagement.

[0079] Embodiment 69: An aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 53 to 68 or any combination thereof, wherein the outlet guide is configured to engage with the second end of the first part of the mouthpiece via at least one of complementary threaded surfaces for threaded engagement, press-fit engagement, snap-fit ​​engagement, or magnetic engagement.

[0080] Embodiment 70: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 69 or any combination thereof, further comprising a removable cartridge, the cartridge comprising a substrate material having an aerosol precursor composition configured to form an aerosol upon application of heat.

[0081] Embodiment 71: The aerosol delivery device of any one of embodiments 1 to 70 or any combination thereof, wherein the holder comprises a window disposed therein and configured to provide a view of at least a portion of the removable cartridge.

[0082] Embodiment 72: The aerosol delivery device of any of embodiments 1 to 71, or any combination thereof, further comprising an indicator configured to indicate the status of the device, such as, for example, a light emitting diode for indicating on / off, charging, low battery, etc.

[0083] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The present invention includes any combination of two, three, four, or more of the foregoing embodiments, as well as combinations of any two, three, four, or more features or elements described in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are explicitly combined in the description of a particular embodiment herein. The present disclosure, in any of its various aspects and embodiments, is intended to be read as a whole such that any separable features or elements of the disclosed invention are intended to be combinable unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0084] Having thus described the present disclosure in general terms above, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0085] [Figure 1A] 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol delivery device comprising a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol delivery device comprising a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1B shows an exploded view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] 1B shows a cross-sectional side view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 3B shows an enlarged portion of a side cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 3A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1B shows cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] 1B shows cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] 1B shows cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] 1 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge end of an aerosol delivery device with a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator, with a removable cartridge loaded, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 1 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge end of an aerosol delivery device with a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator, with a removable cartridge loaded, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] 1 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge end of an aerosol delivery device with a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator, with a removable cartridge loaded, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 1 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge end of an aerosol delivery device with a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator during ignition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] 1 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge end of an aerosol delivery device with a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator during ignition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A]An enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge end of an aerosol delivery device comprising a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator, with a removable cartridge ejected therefrom, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] An enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge end of an aerosol delivery device comprising a pair of actuatable igniter contacts and a dual-purpose slider actuator, with a removable cartridge ejected therefrom, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of another aerosol delivery device having a pair of actuatable igniter contacts according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 1 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of another aerosol delivery device having a pair of actuatable igniter contacts according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 8B shows an exploded perspective view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 8A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] 8B shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the cartridge end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 8A with the actuatable igniter contact in an inactive state, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] 10B shows an enlarged portion of a cross-sectional side view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 10A with a cartridge fully inserted, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] 8B shows an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the cartridge end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 8A with the actuatable igniter contact activated, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B shows an enlarged plan view of the cartridge end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 11A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] 1 shows a perspective view of yet another aerosol delivery device comprising a slider actuator assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] 1 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of yet another aerosol delivery device comprising a slider actuator assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13]FIG. 12B shows an exploded perspective view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 12A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] 12B shows cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 12A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] 12B shows cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 12A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14C] 12B shows cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 12A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15A] 1 shows a perspective view of yet another aerosol delivery device having a pair of actuatable igniter contacts according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15B] 1 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of yet another aerosol delivery device having a pair of actuatable igniter contacts according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 15B shows an exploded perspective view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] 15B shows perspective views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] 15B shows perspective views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17C] 15B shows perspective views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17D] 15B shows perspective views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18A] FIG. 15B shows an enlarged perspective end view of the cartridge end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18B] FIG. 15B shows an enlarged perspective end view of the cartridge end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18C]FIG. 15B shows an enlarged perspective end view of the cartridge end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 15A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 shows a front view of an alternative aerosol delivery device with a removable mouthpiece and a removable cartridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 shows a side view of an alternative aerosol delivery device with a removable mouthpiece and a removable cartridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 20 shows a partially exploded perspective view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 20 shows an exploded view of the mouthpiece portion of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23A] 20A-20C show side views of the mouthpiece portion of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23B] 20A-20C show side views of the mouthpiece portion of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23C] 20A-20C show side views of the mouthpiece portion of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] 20 shows an exploded view of the holder portion of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25A] FIG. 20 shows a close-up view of the distal end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in a neutral position, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25B] FIG. 25B shows an enlarged end view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 25A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26A] 20 shows an enlarged view of the distal end of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in an ignition position, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26B] FIG. 26B shows an enlarged end view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 26A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27A]20A-20C show perspective views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27B] 20A-20C show perspective views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27C] 20A-20C show perspective views of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 19 in various operating states according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a removable cartridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a removable cartridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0086] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0087] Unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, references to first, second, etc. should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless otherwise specified or clear from the context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, a feature described as being to the left of another feature may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships, and the like, unless otherwise specified, any one or more, if not all, of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to technical tolerances, etc.

[0088] As used herein, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, an "or" of a set of operands is an "inclusive or," whereby it is true if and only if one or more of the operands are true, as opposed to an "exclusive or," which is false if all of the operands are true. Thus, for example, "[A] or [B]" is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Furthermore, the articles "a" and "an" mean "one or more" unless otherwise specified or unless it is clear from the context that the singular form is intended. Furthermore, it should be understood that "data," "content," "digital content," "information," and similar terms may sometimes be used interchangeably unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, when multiples of the same component are listed, the multiples may be referred to individually (e.g., ##a, ##b, ##c, etc.) or collectively (##).

[0089] The present disclosure provides a description of articles (and their assembly and / or manufacture) in which materials are heated (preferably without burning the materials to any significant extent) to form an aerosol and / or inhalable substance, and such articles are most preferably compact enough to be considered "handheld" devices. In some aspects, the articles are characterized as smoking articles. As used herein, the term "smoking article" is intended to mean an article and / or device that provides many of the sensations of smoking a cigarette, cigar, or pipe (e.g., the type of inhalation and exhalation, the type of taste or flavor, the organoleptic effect, the physical feel, the type of use, visual cues such as those provided by a visible aerosol, etc.) without substantially burning any components of the article and / or device. As used herein, the term "smoking article" does not necessarily mean that, during operation, the article or device produces smoke in the sense of an aerosol resulting from the by-products of tobacco combustion or pyrolysis, but rather that the article or device produces vapor resulting from the volatilization or vaporization of certain components, elements, etc. of the article and / or device (including vapor within an aerosol that is considered to be a visible aerosol that is considered to be described as smoky). In some aspects, articles or devices characterized as smoking articles incorporate tobacco and / or tobacco-derived components.

[0090] As previously mentioned, the aerosol delivery device may provide many of the sensations of smoking a cigarette, cigar, or pipe (e.g., the type of inhalation and exhalation, the type of taste or flavor, the sensory stimulating effect, the physical feel, the type of use, visual cues such as those provided by a visible aerosol, etc.) used by lighting and burning tobacco (and thus inhaling tobacco smoke) without substantially burning any of its components. For example, a user of an aerosol delivery device according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may hold and use the apparatus as a smoker would use a traditional type of smoking article, drawing on one end of the component for inhalation of the aerosol generated by the component, taking puffs at selected time intervals, etc.

[0091] The article or device of the present disclosure may also be characterized as a vapor product, an aerosol delivery article, or a drug delivery article. Thus, such an article or device may be adapted to provide one or more substances in an inhalable form or state. For example, the inhalable substance may be substantially in vapor form (e.g., a substance in the gas phase at a temperature below its critical point). Alternatively, the inhalable substance may be in aerosol form (e.g., a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas). For simplicity, the term "aerosol" as used herein is meant to include vapors, gases, and aerosols in any form or type suitable for human inhalation, regardless of whether they are visible and whether they are in a form that can be considered smoke-like. In some embodiments, the terms "vapor" and "aerosol" may be interchangeable. Therefore, for simplicity, the terms "vapor" and "aerosol" used to describe the present disclosure are understood to be interchangeable unless otherwise specified.

[0092] Examples of suitable vapor-producing, aerosol-delivery, or drug-delivery articles include vapor products, non-combustion heating products, hybrid products, and the like. Vapor products are commonly known as "electronic cigarettes," "e-cigarettes," or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), although the aerosol-forming material need not contain nicotine. Many vapor products are designed to heat a liquid material to generate an aerosol. Other vapor products are designed to break down an aerosol-forming material into an aerosol without heating or with only secondary heating. Non-combustion heating products include tobacco heating products (THPs) and carbon-tipped tobacco heating products (CTHPs), and many are designed to heat a solid material to generate an aerosol without burning the solid material.

[0093] Hybrid products may use a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, semi-solid, liquid, or gel. Some hybrid products are similar to vapor products, except that the aerosol generated from the liquid or gel aerosol-generating material passes through a second material (such as tobacco) to capture additional components before reaching the user. In some exemplary embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0094] During use, smoking articles of the present disclosure are subject to many of the physical actions of an individual when using a traditional type of smoking article (e.g., a cigarette, cigar, or pipe that is used by lighting it with a flame and then burning and / or inhaling the burned tobacco). For example, a user of a smoking article of the present disclosure holds the article in a manner similar to a traditional type of smoking article, draws on one end of the article to inhale the aerosol produced by the article, and takes puffs for selected time intervals.

[0095] Although the systems are generally described herein with respect to embodiments relating to smoking articles, such as so-called "tobacco heating products," it should be understood that the features, components, features, and methods can be embodied in many different forms and associated with a variety of items. For example, the description provided herein can be used in conjunction with traditional smoking articles (e.g., cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc.), non-combustion heated cigarettes, and related packaging embodiments for any of the products disclosed herein. Accordingly, it should be understood that the description of the features, components, features, and methods disclosed herein are described with respect to embodiments relating to aerosol delivery devices by way of example only, and may be embodied and used in a variety of other products and methods.

[0096] The aerosol delivery device of the present disclosure generally includes several components disposed within an outer body or shell, which may be referred to as a housing. The overall design of the outer body or shell can vary, and the format or configuration of the outer body can vary, which can define the overall size and shape of the aerosol delivery device. In some exemplary embodiments, an elongated body resembling the shape of a cigarette or cigar can be formed from a single, integral housing, or the elongated housing can be formed from two or more separable bodies. For example, the aerosol delivery device can include an elongated shell or body that can be substantially tubular in shape and thus resemble the shape of a traditional cigarette or cigar. In another example, the aerosol delivery device can be substantially rectangular or have a substantially rectangular cuboid shape. In one example, all of the components of the aerosol delivery device are housed within a single housing. Alternatively, the aerosol delivery device can include two or more joined and separable housings. For example, the aerosol delivery device can have one portion with a housing that houses and is removably connectable to one or more reusable components (e.g., an accumulator such as a rechargeable battery and / or a rechargeable supercapacitor, and various electronics for controlling the operation of the item), a separate second portion (e.g., a mouthpiece), and / or a disposable component (e.g., a disposable flavor-containing cartridge containing aerosol precursor materials, flavorants, etc.). More specific formats, configurations, and arrangements of components within a single-housing type unit or a multi-piece separable-housing type unit will be apparent in light of the further disclosure provided herein. Furthermore, various aerosol delivery device designs and component arrangements can be appreciated by considering commercially available electronic aerosol delivery devices.

[0097] As described in more detail below, the holder of the aerosol delivery device of the present disclosure may comprise some combination of a power source (e.g., a power supply), at least one control component (e.g., a means for activating, controlling, regulating, and terminating power, such as by controlling the flow of current from the power source to other components of the article, such as a microprocessor, either individually or as part of a microcontroller, a printed circuit board (PCB) including the microprocessor and / or microcontroller, etc.), a lighter portion configured to heat the heat source and / or substrate material of the cartridge, and a receiving chamber. Such a holder may be configured to receive one or more substrate cartridges containing a substrate material capable of generating an aerosol upon application of sufficient heat. In some embodiments, the holder may include a mouthpiece portion configured to allow drawing on the holder for aerosol inhalation (e.g., a predetermined airflow path through the holder so that the generated aerosol can be drawn therefrom upon inhalation).

[0098] In various aspects, the cartridge's heat source may be capable of generating heat to aerosolize the cartridge's substrate material, including, for example, an extruded structure and / or substrate, a substrate material associated with the aerosol precursor composition, tobacco and / or tobacco-related materials, such as materials naturally found in tobacco, isolated directly from tobacco or synthetically prepared, in solid or liquid form (e.g., beads, sheets, strips, wraps), etc. As described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the extruded structure may comprise a tobacco product or a composite of tobacco with other materials, such as ceramic powder. In other embodiments, a tobacco extract / slurry may be loaded into porous ceramic beads. Other embodiments may use non-tobacco products. In some embodiments, aerosol precursor composition-loaded porous beads / powder (ceramic) may be used. In other embodiments, a rod / cylinder made of an extruded slurry of ceramic powder and aerosol precursor composition may be used.

[0099] In some embodiments, the substrate material may comprise a liquid comprising an aerosol precursor composition and / or a gel comprising an aerosol precursor composition. Some examples of liquid compositions can be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0113239 to Aller et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As previously mentioned, in various embodiments, one or more of the substrate materials may have an aerosol precursor composition associated therewith. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may include one or more different components, such as a polyhydric alcohol (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof). Further representative types of aerosol precursor compositions are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,793,365 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,101,839 to Jakob et al.; International Publication No. WO 98 / 57556 to Biggs et al., and "Chemical and Biological Studies on New Cigarette Prototypes that Heat Instead of Burn Tobacco," R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Monograph (1988), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the substrate material may generate a visible aerosol upon application of sufficient heat (optionally cooled with air), and the substrate material may generate a "smoky" aerosol. In other embodiments, the substrate material may generate an aerosol that is substantially invisible but whose presence is recognized by other characteristics, such as flavor or texture. Thus, the nature of the aerosol generated may vary depending on the specific components of the aerosol delivery components. The substrate material may be chemically simple relative to the chemistry of the smoke generated by burning tobacco.

[0100] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may incorporate nicotine, which may be present in various concentrations. The source of nicotine may be varied, and the nicotine incorporated in the aerosol precursor composition may be derived from a single source or a combination of two or more sources. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may contain nicotine derived from tobacco. In other embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may contain nicotine derived from other organic plant sources, such as non-tobacco plant sources, including plants of the Solanaceae family. In other embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may contain synthetic nicotine. In some embodiments, the nicotine incorporated in the aerosol precursor composition may be derived from non-tobacco plant sources, such as other members of the Solanaceae family. The aerosol precursor composition may additionally or alternatively include other active ingredients, including, but not limited to, botanicals (e.g., lavender, peppermint, chamomile, basil, rosemary, thyme, eucalyptus, ginger, cannabis, ginseng, maca, and tisanes), stimulants (e.g., caffeine and guarana), amino acids (e.g., taurine, theanine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan), and / or pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and medicinal ingredients (e.g., vitamins such as B6, B12, and C, and cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)). It is noted that the aerosol precursor composition may include any component, derivative, or combination of any of the above.

[0101] As described herein, the aerosol precursor composition may comprise or be derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts. As used herein, the term "botanical" includes any material derived from a plant, including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fiber, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husks, shells, etc. Alternatively, the material may comprise active compounds naturally occurring in the plant that are synthetically obtained. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, chips, strips, sheets, etc. Examples of plants include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibo, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice, matcha, mato, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, anise, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, and lavender. , lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damiento, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, short rib, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, ciacristine, maca, schwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof.The mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: Mentha arventis, grapefruit mint (Mentha cv), Egyptian mint (Mentha niliaca), peppermint (Mentha piperita), lime mint (Mentha piperita citrate cv), chocolate mint (Mentha piperita cv), curly mint (Mentha spicata crispa), wild mint (Mentha cardifolia), horse mint (Mentha longifolia), pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens variegata), pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), English spearmint (Mentha spicata cv), and apple mint (Mentha suaveolens).

[0102] A wide variety of flavoring agents or materials that alter the sensory or organoleptic characteristics or properties of the mainstream aerosol of a smoking article may be suitable for use. In some embodiments, such flavoring agents may be provided from sources other than tobacco and may be natural or artificial in nature. For example, some flavoring agents may be applied to or incorporated within the substrate material and / or the region of the smoking article where the aerosol is generated. In some embodiments, such agents may be provided directly to the heating cavity or region proximate the heat source or substrate material provided. Examples of flavoring agents include, for example, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, cream, tea, coffee, fruit (e.g., apple, cherry, strawberry, peach, and citrus flavors including lime and lemon), maple, menthol, mint, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, nutmeg, clove, lavender, cardamom, ginger, honey, anise, sage, cinnamon, sandalwood, jasmine, cascarilla, cocoa, licorice, and flavoring agents and flavor packages of the type and characteristics conventionally used in cigarette, cigar, and pipe tobacco flavorings. Syrups, such as high fructose corn syrup, may also be suitable for use.

[0103] As used herein, the terms "flavor," "flavoring," "flavoring agent," and the like refer to materials that may be used, where local regulations permit, to create a desired taste, aroma, or other somatic sensation in products intended for adult consumers.They may be any naturally occurring flavoring material, botanical substance, extract of botanical substance, synthetically derived material, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, osmanthus leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, macha, menthol, mint, anise, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, heat, Belt fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragonfly, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascara, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, hut, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cinnamon bark, cassou, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang g), sage, fennel, wasabi, pimento, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, mint oil of all species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, yerba mate, orange peel, rose, teas such as green and black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, turmeric, coriander, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimen The present invention may include other additives such as citric acid, citric acid, citric acid, citric acid derivatives (e.g., citric acid, citric acid derivatives), ...They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example a liquid such as an oil, a solid such as a powder, or a gas.

[0104] In some embodiments, the flavor comprises menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises cucumber, blueberry, citrus, and / or red berry flavor components. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components extracted from cannabis.

[0105] In some embodiments, flavors can include sensations intended to achieve somatic sensations, usually chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or instead of aroma or taste sensations, and these can include agents that provide heating, cooling, tingling, and numbing effects. Suitable heating agents can be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and suitable cooling agents can be, but are not limited to, eucoliptol, WS-3.

[0106] Flavoring agents may also include acidic or basic characteristics (e.g., organic acids such as levulinic acid, succinic acid, pyruvic acid, and benzoic acid). In some embodiments, flavoring agents can be combined with components of the substrate material as needed. Exemplary plant-derived compositions that may be suitable are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,107,453 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0152265, both to Dube et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Any material, such as a flavoring agent, casing, or the like, that may be useful in combination with the tobacco material to affect its sensory properties, including organoleptic properties as described herein, may be combined with the substrate material. Organic acids may be incorporated into the substrate material, particularly to affect the flavor, sensory, or organoleptic properties of pharmaceuticals, such as nicotine, that may be combined with the substrate material. For example, organic acids such as levulinic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, and benzoic acid may be included in the substrate material along with nicotine in amounts up to equimolar with nicotine (based on total organic acid content). Any combination of organic acids may be suitable. For example, in some embodiments, the matrix material may include about 0.1 to about 0.5 moles of levulinic acid per mole of nicotine, about 0.1 to about 0.5 moles of pyruvic acid per mole of nicotine, about 0.1 to about 0.5 moles of lactic acid per mole of nicotine, or combinations thereof, up to a concentration where the total amount of organic acid present is equimolar to the total amount of nicotine present in the matrix material. Various additional examples of organic acids used to prepare the substrate material are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0344456 by Dull et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0107] The selection of such additional ingredients can vary based on factors such as the sensory characteristics desired in the smoking article, and the present disclosure is intended to encompass any such additional ingredients readily apparent to one skilled in the art of tobacco and tobacco-related or tobacco-derived products. See Gutcho, Tobacco Flavoring Materials and Methods, Noyes Data Corp. (1972) and Leffingwell et al., Tobacco Flavorings for Smoking Products (1972), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0108] In other embodiments, the substrate material can include other materials with various inherent properties or characteristics. For example, the substrate material can include regenerated cellulose in the form of a plasticized material or rayon. As another example, viscose (commercially available as VISIL®), a regenerated cellulose product incorporating silica, can be suitable. Some carbon fibers may contain at least 95% carbon or more. Similarly, natural cellulose fibers such as cotton can be suitable and can be infused or otherwise treated with silica, carbon, or metal particles to enhance flame retardancy and minimize any undesirable off-gassing components that would adversely affect off-gassing, particularly flavor (especially minimizing the potential for any toxic off-gassing products). Cotton can be treated, for example, with boric acid or various organophosphate compounds to provide the desired flame retardancy by dipping, spraying, or other techniques known in the art. These fibers can also be treated (e.g., coated, infused, or both by dipping, spraying, or vapor deposition) with organic or metallic nanoparticles to impart the desired properties of flame retardancy without undesirable off-gassing or melt-type behavior.

[0109] More specific formats, configurations, and arrangements of components within the non-flammable aerosol delivery systems of the present disclosure will become apparent in light of the further disclosure provided below. Additionally, the selection and arrangement of various non-flammable aerosol delivery system components can be understood in light of commercially available electronic non-flammable aerosol delivery systems, such as the representative products referenced in the Background section of this disclosure.

[0110] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, it may be advantageous to provide an aerosol delivery device that is easy to use and offers reusable and / or replaceable components. Figures 1A, 1B, 2, 3A, and 3B illustrate one exemplary embodiment of such an apparatus. In particular, Figures 1A and 1B illustrate a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view, respectively, of an aerosol delivery device 100 including a dual-purpose slider actuator assembly 108. Specifically, the aerosol delivery device 100 comprises a holder 102 having a body defining a proximal end 102a and a distal end 102b. The holder 102 further defines a receiving chamber 110 configured to receive a removable cartridge (106 in Figure 3A) and an aerosol passageway 150 extending through at least a portion of the body. The removable cartridge 106 comprises an ignitable heat source 120 and a substrate portion 122 including a substrate material having an aerosol precursor composition configured to form an aerosol upon application of heat. The device 100 further includes a mouthpiece 104 having a first end 104a and a longitudinally opposed second end 104b, with a second aerosol passageway 154 extending longitudinally therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 104 is disposed adjacent the proximal end 102a of the holder 102, with the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with the proximal end of the holder 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 104 is removable from the holder 102; however, in other embodiments, the mouthpiece may be integral with the holder 102. The device 100 also includes a power source 112 disposed within the holder 102. A dual-purpose slider actuator assembly 108 is coupled to the holder 102 and configured to ignite the ignitable heat source 120 and eject the removable cartridge 106, as described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 2, 3A, and 3B.

[0111] 2 and the cross-sectional side view of FIG. 3A, the dual-purpose slider actuator assembly 108 comprises a slider body 130 slidably disposed within the body of the holder 102 and having an upper track 132, a lower track 134, and a collar 136 connecting the upper and lower tracks and defining a receptacle 138 configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge; a spring-loaded push button 140 engaging the upper track 132 of the slider body 130 to move the actuator assembly 108 between a loading position (see FIG. 4A), a writing position (see FIG. 4B), and an ejecting position (see FIG. 4C); and a spring assembly or biasing mechanism 142 engaging the slider body 130 and configured to bias the actuator assembly 108 toward a loading / writing or other "neutral" position. The slider body 130 is configured to be slidable in a first direction and a second direction along the length of the body. The push button 140 is configured to engage the electrical contacts 129 when in the lighting position. In one embodiment, the push button 140 extends through an opening in the top surface of the upper track 132 and is slidably secured thereto. The button 140 is spring-biased to return to the off position after igniting the heat source. The holder 102 defines a slot 116 through its surface, the slot being sized and shaped to slidably receive the spring-loaded push button 140 therein. In some embodiments, the upper track 132 of the slider body 130 sealingly engages the holder about the slot 116, for example, via a gasket 117 disposed in a recess formed in the top surface of the slider body 130.

[0112] The dual-purpose slider actuator assembly 108 further comprises a pair of actuatable igniter contacts 128A, 128b (collectively 128) disposed proximate the holder distal end 102a and configured to engage an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber 110. The igniter contacts 128 are coupled to the slider body 130 via a pair of contact arms 126 disposed within a groove 135 defined by upper and lower tracks 132, 134. Specifically, first contact arm 126a is pivotally coupled to the body of holder 102 and configured to receive one of a pair of actuatable igniter contacts 128A within a retention groove 127a formed within an inner surface of contact arm 126a, and second contact arm 126b is pivotally coupled to the body of holder 102 and configured to receive the other of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts 128b within a retention groove 127b formed within an inner surface of second contact arm 126b. Contact arm 126 is further coupled to sliding body 130 (e.g., via pivot pin 180) such that sliding movement of sliding body 130 to the lighting position pivots contact arm 126 to a closed configuration in which igniter contact 128 moves into contact with ignitable heat source 120 (see FIG. 6B ). Additionally, the contact arm 126 may be chamfered at its end that engages the slider body 130 to accommodate pivoting of the arm 126 within the holder 102 .

[0113] The receiving chamber 110 of the device 100 is further defined by an end cap 114 defining an opening 115 configured to engage the distal end 102b of the holder and receive the removable cartridge 106, an outlet guide 144 coupled to the slider body collar 136 and slidably disposed within the body of the holder 102 via the end cap 114, and an inner slider seal body 146 disposed within and coupled to (e.g., frictionally engaged via sealing surfaces) the receptacle 138 of the slider body 130, the inner slider seal body 146 defining a cavity configured to sealingly engage the removable cartridge 106 and removably secure the removable cartridge 106 therein. For example, the inner slider seal body 146 may include an elastomeric sleeve 148 disposed therein including a ridge or ring 176 extending radially inward from the wall of the sleeve configured to sealingly and frictionally engage the outer surface of the removable cartridge 106. The inner slider seal body 146 may include a leading edge or lip 149 configured to contact or engage the spring assembly 142 by way of a ridge or ring 172 disposed around the outer surface of the seal body 146 proximate an end opposite the leading edge that is configured to engage an edge of the end cap 114 that extends into the holder 102. Additionally, the elastomeric sleeve 148 includes a ridge or ring 170 extending radially outward from the outer wall of the sleeve 148 that is configured to frictionally engage the inner wall of the receptacle 138.

[0114] The outlet guide 144 defines a passageway forming a portion of the receiving chamber 110 configured to pass the removable cartridge and includes a pair of opposing slots 145 through its wall configured to allow the igniter contacts 128 to pass through and engage the ignitable heat source 120. The outlet guide 144 can be snap-fit ​​to the collar 136, for example, via mating slots and ridges. The collar 136 of the slider body 130 is disposed within a receptacle 138 and includes an inner stem 133 engageable with one end of the removable cartridge and defining a passageway 150 for the passage of aerosol generated from the removable cartridge. The end cap 114 removably engages with the holder 102, for example, via one or more of a snap fit, an interference fit, a threaded, magnetic, and / or a bayonet connection. In other embodiments, the end cap can permanently engage with the holder 102 after assembly to secure various components therein. The end cap 114 may be translucent or transparent to allow light from an ignitable heat source to pass through when lit. Similarly, the push button 140 may be translucent or transparent to allow light from, for example, an LED to pass through to indicate the state of the device 100. Operation of the dual-purpose slider actuator assembly 108 will be described with reference to Figures 4A-4C.

[0115] Device 100 further comprises an inner housing 124 disposed within holder 102 and defining an inner cavity 123 configured to receive power source 112 and printed circuit board 118 therein. Printed circuit board 118 is in electrical communication with power source 112 and includes electrical contacts 129 disposed thereon for actuation by slider push button 140 when actuator assembly 108 is in the lighting position. Power source 112 is in electrical communication with igniter contacts 128 via a pair of wires 168 or other electrical connection mechanism. In one embodiment, wires 168 extend at least partially into a groove 166 defined by a pair of fingers 164 extending from a distal end of inner housing 124. Furthermore, the distal end 124b of the inner housing is in sealing engagement with the slider body 130 (e.g., using a gasket or O-ring 178) when the actuator assembly is in the lighting position to provide aerosol from the cartridge 106 to the aerosol passage 150 further defined by the inner housing 124. The aerosol passage 150 extends through the inner housing and exits via the proximal end 124a of the inner housing 124, which is in fluid communication with a second aerosol passage 154 in the mouthpiece 104. A portion of the aerosol passage 150 extends along and through one or more channels 151 disposed on the outer surface of the inner housing 124. The printed circuit board may further include a charging port 119 disposed at the proximal end of the holder 102 and oriented on the printed circuit board so as to be accessible, for example, by removing the mouthpiece 104.

[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, mouthpiece 104 is coupled to holder 102 via a collar 152 that sealingly engages proximal end 102a of the holder and may be secured to the holder via fasteners 162 (e.g., screws) that engage inner housing 124. Collar 152 includes one or more O-rings 160 disposed on its outer surface and configured for sealing engagement with mouthpiece 104; specifically, the collar is received within a recess 156 formed in distal end 104b of the mouthpiece. Collar 152 also defines a passage therethrough that is in fluid communication with aerosol passage 150 of inner housing 124 and aerosol passage 154 extending through mouthpiece 104, thereby completing an aerosol pathway extending from receiving chamber 110, through sliding body 130 and inner housing 124, and out through opening 158 in mouthpiece portion 104.

[0117] Figures 4A-4C show a series of cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device 100 in various operating states. Specifically, Figure 4A depicts the cartridge 106 being loaded into the device 100 (i.e., the actuator assembly in the loaded position) (see also Figures 5A-5C), Figure 4B depicts the device 100 during lighting and smoking (i.e., the actuator assembly in the ignition position) (see also Figures 6A and 6B), and Figure 4C depicts the cartridge 106 being ejected from the device 100 (i.e., the actuator assembly in the ejection position) (see also Figures 7A and 7B).

[0118] 4A and 5A-5C, the cartridge 106 is shown inserted into the receiving chamber 110 of the holder 102 to position the cartridge 106 in a writing and / or use position. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner slider seal body 146 forms a cartridge retention assembly configured to retain the cartridge within the receiving chamber in the writing / use position. As previously described, the inner slider seal body 146 includes an elastomeric sleeve 148 partially disposed on the inner surface of the seal body, which includes structure 176 for engaging the cartridge 106. As illustrated, the seal body has a generally cylindrical shape. However, the shape and size of the seal body 146 may vary to suit a particular application. In particular, the sleeve 148 comprises a silicone seal configured to frictionally engage the cartridge 106 such that, when the cartridge 106 is pressed and fully received within the receiving chamber 110, the cartridge 106 is temporarily "locked" in place within the holder 102. In some embodiments, the sleeve 148 includes a ridge 176, such as a ring, extending radially inward from the inner surface thereof, which ridge 176 is configured to frictionally and / or sealingly engage the outer surface of the removable cartridge 106 to secure the cartridge 106 within the receiving chamber 110.

[0119] In other embodiments, other retention features may be used. For example, in some embodiments, one or more retention balls may form part of the cartridge retention assembly. In other embodiments, the cartridge retention assembly may include other retention features, including one or more resilient members, such as one or more O-rings, and / or one or more resilient features extending into the receiving chamber to engage a portion of the outer surface of the cartridge. In other embodiments, the outer housing of the cartridge and / or receiving chamber may include one or more protrusions and / or spring features and corresponding detent features configured to retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber (e.g., a spring-loaded latch mechanism). In still other embodiments, the inner surface of the receiving chamber may have a reduced diameter (and / or one or more portions with a reduced diameter) that may be configured to retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber. In other embodiments, the holder may include an actively retractable feature (e.g., a feature actively retractable by a user) configured to engage with the cartridge and retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber. In other embodiments, the holder may include one or more wedging features configured to engage and retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber. In yet other embodiments, one or more other features of the cartridge and / or one or more features of the holder can form a releasable connection between the receiving chamber and the cartridge. For example, in some embodiments, the cartridge and receiving chamber can have a removable threaded connection. In still other embodiments, the cartridge can be held in the receiving chamber via magnetic force. For example, in some embodiments, the outer housing of the cartridge can be made of a ferromagnetic material and the receiving chamber can include one or more magnets. A combination of two or more of these holding features can also be used.

[0120] In various embodiments, one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly may be made of any material, including, for example, but not limited to, metal or plastic materials. For example, some embodiments may include one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly made of a metal material, such as, for example, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, silver, gold, bronze, titanium, various alloys, etc. In some embodiments, one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly may be made of a moldable plastic material, such as, for example, polycarbonate, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (nylon), or polypropylene. In some embodiments, one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly may be made of different materials, such as, for example, different plastic materials, different metal materials, graphite materials, glass materials, ceramic materials, natural materials (for example, but not limited to, wood), composite materials, or any combination thereof.

[0121] 4A and 5C, the actuator assembly 108 faces forward within the holder 102 (i.e., the loaded position), such that the contact arm 126 is in an open configuration and the push button 140 is offset from the ignition contact 129, thereby preventing current from being inadvertently directed through the ignition contact 128. In the open position, the contact arm 126 rests on the exit guide 144 and cannot rotate into contact with the cartridge ignition contact 128. With the actuator assembly 108 in the loaded position, the cartridge 106 is manually inserted into the receiving chamber 110 until a portion of the cartridge 106 (e.g., the ignitable heat source 120) is secured therein and extends beyond the distal end 102b of the holder 102. In some embodiments, the cartridge 106 extends beyond the distal end 102b by about 5 mm to about 25 mm, preferably about 10 mm to about 20 mm, and more preferably about 14.5 mm. However, the cartridge is secured within the inner slider seal body to prevent the cartridge from falling out of the receiving chamber 110. In some embodiments, the retention structure (e.g., ridge 176) may include audible or tactile feedback to notify the user that the cartridge 106 is secured within the device 100. Additionally, the outlet guide 144 is generally disposed within the end cap 114 adjacent the distal end of the holder 102, and the proximal end of the cartridge 106 sealingly engages the stem 133 such that the passage therein is in fluid communication with the aerosol passage 150 of the inner housing 124.

[0122] 4B, 6A, and 6B, the slider push button 140 (and actuator assembly 108) moves toward the mouthpiece 104, drawing the cartridge 106 into a lighting or use position within the device 100. As shown in FIG. 4B, the push button 140, when pressed, is aligned with the contact 129 to complete an electrical circuit and supply current to the igniter contact 128. In the lighting / use position shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the distal end of the cartridge 106 is positioned proximate the distal end 102b of the holder 102 such that the entire cartridge 106 is disposed inside the holder 102. Notably, in the ignition / use position of the illustrated embodiment, the ignitable heat source 120 portion of the cartridge 106 is also positioned proximate the distal end of the holder 102 and is aligned with the igniter contact 128 in the lighting position. Generally, the device 100 and cartridge are configured so that the distal end of the cartridge 106 is substantially aligned with the distal end of the holder (or, in some embodiments, is aligned with the distal end of the holder) such that the distal end of the cartridge 106 does not extend beyond the distal end 102b of the holder 102. However, in other embodiments, in the lighting / use position, the cartridge may be received within the holder to varying degrees, and in some embodiments, the distal end of the cartridge may extend beyond (e.g., outside of) the distal end of the holder. As described in more detail below, in the lighting / use position, the ignition contacts 128 are configured to ignite the heat source 120 of the substrate cartridge 106.

[0123] 6A and 6B show the distal end 102b of the holder, specifically the interface between the cartridge 106, the sliding actuator assembly 108, and the igniter contact 128. As shown, the cartridge 106 is in sealing engagement with the slider body stem 133 (via inner slider seal 166), and the slider body 130 is fully retracted and in sealing engagement with the inner housing 124 (via seal 178), defining the aforementioned aerosol passage 150. In the lighting position, the ignitable heat source 120 is ignited, and the ignited heat source aerosolizes at least a portion of the substrate portion 122 of the cartridge 106 for delivery to the user via the holder 102.

[0124] In some embodiments, the opening 115 in the end cap 114 allows for the introduction of ambient air into the receiving chamber 110 and the cartridge 106. However, in other embodiments not shown, the holder may include one or more openings to allow the inlet of ambient air to be directed into the receiving chamber and / or aerosol passage (e.g., through the substrate cartridge and / or downstream from the substrate cartridge). Thus, when a user draws on the holder (e.g., through its mouthpiece portion), air may be drawn into the receiving chamber and / or aerosol passage for inhalation by the user. Furthermore, when the actuator assembly 108 is moved to the lighting position, the lower track 134 of the slider body 130 presses the contact arms 126 into their closed configuration (i.e., the igniter contacts 128 are in contact with the heat source 120). Specifically, contact arm 126 engages slider body 130 and is pivotally coupled to holder 102 such that, when actuator assembly 108 is moved to the lighting position, outlet guide 144 translates toward proximal end 102a of holder 102. In this manner, contact arm 126 is no longer supported in its open configuration by outlet guide 144 and can pivot to a closed configuration such that igniter contacts 128 contact heat source 120. When push button 140 is actuated, an electrical circuit is completed and electricity is supplied to igniter contacts 128. In some embodiments, igniter push button 140 may be configured to activate igniter contacts 128 for a set time period after release, or the igniter contacts become inactive when the igniter push button is released.

[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, the position of the cartridge 106 relative to the holder 102 in the writing position and the use position comprises a single position. However, in other embodiments, separate and distinct writing and use positions may exist. In some embodiments, the writing / use position may allow the cartridge to be received by the holder to various degrees. For example, in some embodiments, less than half of the cartridge's length may be disposed within the holder (e.g., less than 50%, less than 40%, less than 30%, less than 20%, less than 10%, etc.). In other embodiments, the writing / use position may allow approximately half of the cartridge's length to be received by the holder. In other embodiments, the writing / use position may allow more than half of the cartridge's length to be received by the holder (e.g., more than 50%, more than 60%, more than 70%, more than 80%, more than 90%, etc.).

[0126] In some alternative embodiments, the aerosol is generated by an electric heater configured to perform electric heating, in which electrical energy from a power source is delivered to the heater when the actuator assembly is moved to the lighting / use position. Heating the aerosol-generating material (substrate 122) releases one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form the aerosol. Examples of suitable forms of electric heating include resistive (Joule) heating, induction heating, dielectric and microwave heating, radiant heating, arc heating, and the like. More specific examples of suitable electric heaters include resistive heating elements such as wire coils, flat plates, prongs, and microheaters.

[0127] In some examples, the cartridge 106 may include a susceptor (e.g., the susceptor may be part of the substrate 122). The susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration with a changing magnetic field generated by a magnetic field generator, which may be separate from or part of the aerosol generator. The susceptor may be a conductive material, such that penetration by the changing magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, such that penetration by the changing magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor in some examples may be both conductive and magnetic, such that the susceptor in these examples is heatable by both heating mechanisms.

[0128] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 may include an ejection mechanism, as shown in Figures 4C, 7A, and 7B. Generally, the ejection mechanism is configured to eject the cartridge 106 from the distal end 102b of the holder. In one embodiment, the ejection mechanism is incorporated into the actuator assembly 108, such that forward movement of the slider push button 140 (and the actuator assembly 108) engages or contacts one end of the cartridge 106, ejecting it from the receiving chamber 110 and out of the aerosol delivery device 100. Figures 7A and 7B illustrate the ejection of the cartridge 106 from the distal end 102b of the holder, and in particular, from the receiving chamber 110 through an opening 115 in the end cap 114. Specifically, a user can slide the actuator assembly 108 forward (e.g., using their thumb and push button 140) so that the inner stem 133 of the slider body 130 engages the cartridge 106, pushing the cartridge out of the inner slider seal 146 and disengaging the cartridge from the cartridge retaining structure 176 disposed within the inner slider seal body 146. Thus, the cartridge 106 can be withdrawn or dropped from the receiving chamber 110.

[0129] As previously described, the inner slider seal body 146 and the outlet guide 144 are coupled to the slider body 130. As the slider body 130 moves forward, the outlet guide can extend beyond the end cap 114 of the device, and a portion of the inner slider seal body 146 (the ring 172) engages with an edge of the end cap 114, preventing the actuator assembly 108 from falling out of the holder 102. A leading edge 149 of the inner slider seal body 146 is configured to contact or engage with the spring assembly 142, thereby compressing the spring assembly 142 as the actuator assembly moves to the eject position and, once the cartridge is ejected and the actuator assembly 108 is released, moving the actuator assembly to the load position.

[0130] 8A and 8B show perspective and side cross-sectional views, respectively, of another embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 200 similar to apparatus 100 described with respect to FIGS. 1A and 1B. Specifically, aerosol delivery device 200 comprises a holder 202 having a body defining a proximal end 202a and a distal end 202b. Holder 202 further defines a receiving chamber 210 configured to receive a removable cartridge (206 in FIG. 10A) and a passageway (e.g., a first aerosol passageway) 250 extending through at least a portion of the body. Removable cartridge 206 comprises an ignitable heat source 220 and a substrate portion 222 including a substrate material having an aerosol precursor composition configured to form an aerosol upon application of heat. Device 200 also includes a pair of actuable igniter contacts 228 configured to be engageable with ignitable heat source 220 when removable cartridge 206 is secured within receiving chamber 210. Specifically, igniter contact 228 is configured to be movable between a first position spaced apart from ignitable heat source 220 and a second position in contact with ignitable heat source 220 .

[0131] The device 200 further includes a mouthpiece 204 having a first end 204a and a longitudinally opposed second end 204b, with a second aerosol passageway 254 extending longitudinally therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 204 is disposed adjacent the proximal end 202a of the holder 202, with the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with the proximal end of the holder 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 204 is removable from the holder 202. However, in other embodiments, the mouthpiece may be integral with the holder 202. The device 200 also includes a power source 212 disposed within the holder 202 and a slider actuator assembly 208 coupled to the holder 202 and configured to load and eject the removable cartridge 206. The actuator assembly 208 is similar to the actuator assembly 108 of FIGS. 1A and 1B and is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 9.

[0132] 9, the slider actuator assembly 208 is slidably disposed within the body of the holder 202 and comprises a slider body 230 having an upper track 232, a lower track or protrusion 234, and a collar 236 connecting the upper and lower tracks and defining a receptacle 238 configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge; a slider button 231 that engages the upper track 232 of the slider body 230 to move the actuator assembly 208 between the loading, writing, and ejecting positions (similar to those described with respect to FIGS. 4A-4C); and a spring assembly 242 that engages the slider body 230 and is configured to bias the actuator assembly 208 toward the loading position or another "neutral" position. The slider body 230 is configured to be slidable in a first direction and a second direction along the length of the body. A positioning feature 237 (e.g., a spring-loaded ball plunger mechanism, etc.) and one or more corresponding detents may be included for temporarily positioning the actuator assembly 208 in one or more of a loading position, a writing position, and an ejecting position. The holder 202 defines a slot 216 through its surface sized and shaped to slidably receive the slider button 231 therein. In some implementations, the upper track 232 of the slider body 230 sealingly engages the holder about the slot 216, for example, via a gasket 217 disposed in a recess formed in the top surface of the slider body 230. The upper and lower tracks 232, 234 define a groove 235 therebetween for receiving an elongated leg of the inner housing 224 to couple the inner housing 224 with the slider body.

[0133] The receiving chamber 210 of the device 200 is further defined by an end cap 214 that engages the distal end 202b of the holder and defines an opening 215 configured to receive the removable cartridge 206 therethrough, an exit guide 244 that is coupled to the slider body collar 236 and slidably disposed within the body of the holder 202 via the end cap 214, and an inner slider seal body 246 that is disposed within the receptacle 238 of the slider body 230 and coupled thereto (e.g., frictionally engaged via sealing surfaces) and defines a cavity configured to sealingly engage the removable cartridge 206 to removably secure the removable cartridge 206 therein. For example, the inner slider seal body 246 may include an elastomeric sleeve 248 disposed therein that includes a ridge or ring 276 extending radially inward from the wall of the sleeve that is configured to frictionally and / or sealingly engage the outer surface of the removable cartridge 206. In some embodiments, the elastomeric sleeve 248 may be integral with the inner slider seal body 246, for example, as part of an overmolded component. The inner slider seal body 246 may include a leading edge or lip 249 configured to contact or engage the spring assembly 242 by way of a ridge or ring 272 disposed around the outer surface of the seal body 246 proximate the end opposite the leading edge that is configured to engage the edge of the end cap 214 that extends into the holder 202. Additionally, the elastomeric sleeve 248 includes a ridge or ring 270 extending radially outward from the outer wall of the sleeve 248 that is configured to frictionally engage the inner wall of the receptacle 238.

[0134] The outlet guide 244 defines a passageway forming a portion of the receiving chamber 210 configured to pass the removable cartridge and includes a pair of opposing slots 245 through its wall configured to allow the igniter contacts 228 to pass through and engage the ignitable heat source 220. The outlet guide 244 can be snap-fit ​​to the collar 236, for example, via mating slots and ridges. The collar 236 of the slider body 230 is disposed within a receptacle 238 and includes an inner stem 233 engageable with one end of the removable cartridge and defining a passageway 250 for the passage of aerosol generated from the removable cartridge. The end cap 214 removably engages with the holder 202, for example, via one or more of a snap fit, an interference fit, a threaded, magnetic, and / or a bayonet connection. In other embodiments, the end cap can permanently engage the holder 202 after assembly to secure various components therein. The end cap 214 may also be translucent or transparent to allow light from an ignitable heat source to pass through when lit.

[0135] Device 200 further comprises an inner housing 224 disposed within holder 202 and defining an inner cavity 223 configured to receive power supply 212 and printed circuit board 218 therein. Printed circuit board 218 is in electrical communication with power supply 212 and includes an LED 241 disposed thereon to indicate when igniter contact 228 is energized. Power supply 212 is in electrical communication with igniter contact 228 via a pair of wires or other electrical connection mechanism. In one embodiment, the wires extend at least partially into a groove defined by a pair of fingers extending from the distal end of inner housing 224. Furthermore, the distal end of inner housing sealingly engages slider body 230 (e.g., with a gasket or O-ring 278) when the actuator assembly is in the lighting position to provide aerosol from cartridge 206 to a first aerosol passageway 250 further defined by inner housing 224. A first aerosol passageway 250 extends through the inner housing and exits through the proximal end of the inner housing 224 in fluid communication with a second aerosol passageway 254 in the mouthpiece 204. A portion of the first aerosol passageway 250 extends along and through one or more channels 251 disposed on or within the exterior surface of the inner housing 224. The printed circuit board may further include a charging port 219 disposed at the proximal end of the holder 202 and oriented on the printed circuit board so as to be accessible, for example, by removing the mouthpiece 204.

[0136] In the illustrated embodiment, mouthpiece 204 is coupled to holder 202 via a collar 252 that sealingly engages proximal end 202a of the holder and may be secured to the holder via fasteners 262 (e.g., screws) that engage inner housing 224. Collar 252 includes one or more sealing features disposed on its outer surface and configured to sealingly engage mouthpiece 204; specifically, the collar is received within a recess 256 formed in distal end 204b of the mouthpiece. Collar 252 also defines a passage therethrough that is in fluid communication with first aerosol passage 250 of inner housing 224 and aerosol passage 254 extending through mouthpiece 204, thereby completing the aerosol path extending from receiving chamber 210, through sliding body 230 and inner housing 224, and out through opening 258 in mouthpiece portion 204.

[0137] A pair of actuable igniter contacts 228a, 228b (collectively 228) are disposed proximate the distal end 202a of the holder and are configured to be engageable with the ignitable heat source 220 when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber 210. The igniter contacts 228 are coupled to a pair of contact arms 226 that are pivotally coupled to the holder 202. Each contact 228 is disposed at the distal end of and / or formed integrally with the elongated body 225. In the illustrated embodiment, a relatively flat portion of each elongated body is configured to be coupled to the contact arm 226 via, for example, a snap fit, an interference fit, or a mechanical fastener. Each contact arm 226 is secured within the holder 202 via a pivot pin 280. In some embodiments, the contact arms 226 may be pinned to the body portion 214a of the end cap 214 so that the assembled parts can be inserted into the distal end of the holder 202.

[0138] Additionally, each proximal portion of elongated body 225 includes a reverse compound bend 243 that acts as a leaf spring to maintain igniter contacts 228 in their first, or open, position. Specifically, the proximal end of elongated body 225 abuts or is secured to an inner wall of holder 202 such that compound bends 243 provide a biasing force to contact arms 226 to maintain contacts 228 in their first, or open, position (see FIG. 10A ). Also disposed proximate distal end 202b of holder 202 are a pair of spring-loaded push buttons 240 that are configured to actuate igniter contacts 228 and deliver electrical energy to ignitable heat source 220, as described below. Push buttons 240 pass through aligned openings 263 disposed in holder 202 and body portion 214a of end cap 214. An additional opening 263 is disposed in the top wall of the holder 202 and is aligned with the LED 241 disposed on the printed circuit board 218 .

[0139] 10A and 10B show the device 200 in a loaded or neutral position with the cartridge 206 introduced into the device's receiving chamber 210, with the cartridge 206 shown fully loaded in the detailed view, and the igniter contact 228 in a first, unactuated position with the igniter contact 228 positioned near but not in contact with the ignitable heat source 220. FIGS. 11A and 11B show the device 200 after the slider actuator assembly 208 has been moved to the lighting position, with the igniter contact 228 shown in a second, actuated position with the contact 228 in contact with the ignitable heat source 220. Generally, the igniter contacts 228 are actuated between their first and second positions, similar to the igniter contacts 328 described above, as long as the heat source 220 is ignited via an aligned push button 240 located on the opposite side of the aerosol delivery device 200. Push button 240, with or without a sealing arrangement, is movably coupled to housing 202 so that a user can simultaneously press both buttons (e.g., via a pinching action) to pivot contact arm 226, and the extensions to move igniter contact 228 into contact with ignitable heat source 220. When released, button 240 returns to its original position, at least in part, due to spring action from opposing compound bends 243 of elongated body 225.

[0140] Specifically, device 200 includes two spring-loaded buttons 240 positioned on opposite sides of holder 202 and oriented proximate contact arms 226. In some embodiments, buttons 240 and contact arms 226 may include mating structures to provide a more secure movable engagement therebetween. As shown in FIG. 11B , spring-loaded push buttons 240 are simultaneously pressed to activate ignition. Specifically, when buttons 240 are pressed, a power source is activated, forcing igniter contacts 228 against ignitable heat source 220. Releasing buttons 240 cuts off the power, and igniter contacts 228 automatically pull away from the tip (e.g., return to their first position). In some embodiments, portions of holder 202 may be transparent or translucent or may incorporate a window that allows a user to view the glow of ignitable heat source 220.

[0141] 12A, 12B, and 13 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 500. In particular, FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view, respectively, of the aerosol delivery device 500 including a slider actuator assembly 508. Specifically, the aerosol delivery device 500 includes a holder 502 having a body defining a proximal end 502a and a distal end 502b, the holder 502 further defining a receiving chamber 510 configured to receive a removable cartridge (506 in FIG. 13) and an aerosol passageway 550 extending through at least a portion of the body. The removable cartridge 506 includes an ignitable heat source 520 and a substrate portion 522 including a substrate material having an aerosol precursor composition configured to form an aerosol upon application of heat. The device 500 further comprises a mouthpiece 504 having a first end 504a and a longitudinally opposed second end 504b, with a second aerosol passageway 554 extending longitudinally therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 504 is disposed adjacent the proximal end 502a of the holder 502, with the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with the proximal end of the holder 502. The mouthpiece 504 includes an extension or hollow stem 505 extending from the mouthpiece second end 504b and configured to sealingly engage with the slider body 530 and partially define the aerosol passageway 550. In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 504 is removable from the holder 502 (e.g., use of a replaceable mouthpiece), for example, to clean or customize the device 500. However, in other embodiments, the mouthpiece 504 may be integral with the holder 502. The device 500 also includes a power supply 512 disposed within the holder 502. A slider actuator assembly 508 is coupled to the holder 502 and configured to eject the removable cartridge 506, as described in more detail below.

[0142] As further illustrated by the exploded view of FIG. 13 , the slider actuator assembly 508 comprises a slider body 530 having an upper track 532 and a lower track 534 coupled to one another via a generally cylindrical body defining an interior space including a receptacle 538 configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body 530 being slidably disposed within the body of the holder 502, and a slider button 540 engaging the upper track 532 of the slider body 530 to move the actuator assembly 508 between a loading position (see FIG. 14A ), a writing position (see FIG. 14B ), and an ejecting position (see FIG. 14C ). The slider body 530 is configured to be slidable in first and second directions along the length of the body. The holder 502 defines a slot 516 through its surface sized and shaped to slidably receive the slider button 540 therein. In some embodiments, an upper track 532 of the slider body 530 sealingly engages the holder about the slot 516. In some embodiments, the device 500 includes an additional button 540′ disposed on a side of the holder 502 and configured to ignite the ignitable heat source 520 of the cartridge 506. A positioning feature 537 (e.g., a spring-loaded ball plunger mechanism, etc.) and one or more corresponding detents may be included to temporarily position the actuator assembly 508 in one or more of a loading position, a lighting position, and an ejection position.

[0143] In an alternative embodiment, slider actuator assembly 508 is configured as a dual-purpose actuator assembly, with slider button 540 being a spring-loaded push button 540 configured to engage electrical contacts to complete an electrical circuit when in the lighting position and to supply current to igniter contacts 528 when pressed. See FIG. 14B.

[0144] The slider actuator assembly 508 further includes a pair of static igniter contacts 528 disposed proximate the holder distal end 502a and configured to engage an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber 510. The igniter contacts 528 are coupled to the printed circuit board 518 via a pair of contact arms 526 that allow the contacts 528 to flex outward upon cartridge insertion to contact the ignitable heat source 520 of the cartridge 506 after loading.

[0145] The receiving chamber 510 of the device 500 is further defined by an end cap 514 defining an opening 515 configured to engage the distal end 502b of the holder and receive the removable cartridge 506, a heat sink 586 disposed at the distal end of the holder 502 and secured to the end cap 514 or the holder 502, and an inner slider seal body 546 disposed within and coupled to (e.g., frictionally engaged via sealing surfaces) the receptacle 538 of the slider body 530. The inner slider seal body 546 defines a cavity configured to sealingly engage and removably secure the removable cartridge 506. For example, the inner slider seal body 546 may include an elastomeric sleeve 548 disposed therein including a ridge or ring 576 extending radially inward from a wall of the sleeve configured to frictionally and / or sealingly engage an outer surface of the removable cartridge 506. Additionally, elastomeric sleeve 548 includes a ridge or ring 570 extending radially outward from the outer wall of sleeve 548 that is configured to frictionally engage the inner wall of receptacle 538. Heat sink 586 defines a passageway for passing the removable cartridge and forming a portion of receiving chamber 510 that accommodates igniter contacts 528 disposed therein and is configured to engage ignitable heat source 520. Heat sink 586 may be snap-fit ​​onto end cap 514 or distal end 502b of holder.

[0146] The slider body 530 includes an inner stem 533 disposed within a receptacle 538 configured to engage one end of the removable cartridge 506 and define a passageway 550 for passage of aerosol generated from the removable cartridge to the mouthpiece 504. The end cap 514 removably engages with the holder 502 via one or more of a snap fit, an interference fit, a threaded, magnetic, and / or a bayonet connection, for example. In other embodiments, the end cap can permanently engage with the holder 502 after assembly to secure various components therein. The end cap 514 may be translucent or transparent to allow light from an ignitable heat source to pass through when lit. Similarly, the slider button 540 may be translucent or transparent to allow light from, for example, an LED indicating the status of the device 500 to pass through.

[0147] The operation of the dual-purpose slider actuator assembly 508 will be described with reference to Figures 14A-14C, which show a series of cross-sectional side views of the aerosol delivery device 500 in various states of operation. Specifically, Figure 14A depicts the cartridge 506 being loaded into the device 500 (i.e., the actuator assembly in the loaded position), Figure 14B depicts the device 500 during lighting and smoking (i.e., the actuator assembly in the ignition position), and Figure 14C depicts the cartridge 506 being ejected from the device 500 (i.e., the actuator assembly in the ejection position).

[0148] 14A , the cartridge 506 is shown inserted into the receiving chamber 510 of the holder 502 to place the cartridge 506 in a writing and / or use position. In the illustrated embodiment, an inner slider seal body 546 forms a cartridge retention assembly configured to retain the cartridge within the receiving chamber in the writing / use position. As previously described, the inner slider seal body 546 includes an elastomeric sleeve 548 partially disposed on the inner surface of the seal body, which includes structure 576 for engaging the cartridge 506. As illustrated, the seal body has a generally cylindrical shape. However, the shape and size of the seal body 546 may vary to suit a particular application. In particular, the sleeve 548 comprises a silicone seal configured to frictionally engage the cartridge 506 such that, when the cartridge 506 is pressed and fully received within the receiving chamber 510, the cartridge 506 is temporarily “locked” in place within the holder 502. In some embodiments, the sleeve 548 includes a ridge 576, such as a ring, extending radially inward from the inner surface thereof and configured to frictionally and / or sealingly engage the outer surface of the removable cartridge 506 to further secure the cartridge within the receiving chamber 510.

[0149] In other embodiments, other retention features may be used. For example, in some embodiments, one or more retention balls may form part of the cartridge retention assembly. In other embodiments, the cartridge retention assembly may include other retention features, including one or more resilient members, such as one or more O-rings, and / or one or more resilient features that extend into the receiving chamber to engage a portion of the outer surface of the cartridge. In other embodiments, the outer housing of the cartridge and / or receiving chamber may include one or more protrusions and / or spring features and corresponding detent features configured to retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber (e.g., a spring-loaded latch mechanism). In still other embodiments, the inner surface of the receiving chamber may have a reduced diameter (and / or one or more portions with a reduced diameter) that may be configured to retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber. In other embodiments, the holder may include an actively retractable feature (e.g., a feature actively retractable by a user) configured to engage with the cartridge and retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber. In other embodiments, the holder may include one or more wedging features configured to engage and retain the cartridge in the receiving chamber. In yet other embodiments, one or more other features of the cartridge and / or one or more features of the holder can form a releasable connection between the receiving chamber and the cartridge. For example, in some embodiments, the cartridge and receiving chamber can have a removable threaded connection. In still other embodiments, the cartridge can be held in the receiving chamber via magnetic force. For example, in some embodiments, the outer housing of the cartridge can be made of a ferromagnetic material and the receiving chamber can include one or more magnets. A combination of two or more of these holding features can also be used.

[0150] In various embodiments, one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly may be made of any material, including, for example, but not limited to, metal or plastic materials. For example, some embodiments may include one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly made of a metal material, such as, for example, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, silver, gold, bronze, titanium, various alloys, etc. In some embodiments, one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly may be made of a moldable plastic material, such as, for example, polycarbonate, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (nylon), or polypropylene. In some embodiments, one or more components of the cartridge retention assembly may be made of different materials, such as, for example, different plastic materials, different metal materials, graphite materials, glass materials, ceramic materials, natural materials (for example, but not limited to, wood), composite materials, or any combination thereof.

[0151] As shown in FIG. 14A , the actuator assembly 508 is in a forward orientation (i.e., a loaded position) within the holder 502. With the actuator assembly 508 in the loaded position, the cartridge 506 is manually inserted into the receiving chamber 510 until a portion of the cartridge 506 (e.g., the ignitable heat source 520) extends beyond the distal end 502b of the holder 502 and is secured therein. In some embodiments, the cartridge 506 extends beyond the distal end 502b by about 5 mm to about 25 mm, preferably about 10 mm to about 20 mm, and more preferably about 14.5 mm. However, the cartridge is secured within the inner slider seal body to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber 510. In some embodiments, the retention structure may include audible or tactile feedback to notify the user that the cartridge 506 is secured within the device 500.

[0152] 14B, slider button 540 (and actuator assembly 508) moves toward mouthpiece 504 to retract cartridge 506 into a lighting or use position within device 500. As shown in FIG. 14B, the proximal end of cartridge 506 sealingly engages stem 533 of slider body 530 and is in fluid communication with hollow stem 505 extending from mouthpiece second end 504b to at least partially define aerosol passageway 550. In the lighting / use position, the distal end of cartridge 506 is positioned proximate distal end 502b of holder 502 such that cartridge 506 is entirely disposed inside holder 502. Notably, in the lighting / use position of the illustrated embodiment, a portion of heat source 520 of cartridge 506 is also positioned proximate distal end 502b of holder 502 and is aligned with igniter contact 528 in the lighting position. The igniter contact 528 remains in contact with the heat source 520 during smoking and until ejected from the device 500. In an alternative embodiment having a dual-purpose slider actuator, the slider button 540 is aligned with the electrical contacts so that when pressed, it completes an electrical circuit and delivers electrical current to the igniter contact 528. In other embodiments, the device 500 includes an additional or alternative ignition button 540' located on the side of the holder 502 (see FIGS. 12A and 13).

[0153] In some embodiments, the apparatus 500 may include an ejection mechanism as shown in FIG. 14C . Generally, the ejection mechanism is configured to eject the cartridge 506 from the distal end 502 b of the holder. In one embodiment, the ejection mechanism is incorporated into the actuator assembly 508, whereby the slider push button 540 (and actuator assembly 508) moves forward until it engages one end of the cartridge 506, pushing the cartridge out of the receiving chamber 510 through the opening 515 in the end cap 514 and out of the aerosol delivery device 500. Specifically, a user can slide the actuator assembly 508 forward (e.g., using their thumb and slider button 540) so that the inner stem 533 of the slider body 530 engages the cartridge 506, pushing the cartridge out of the inner slider seal body 546 so that the cartridge disengages from the cartridge seal structure 576 disposed within the inner slider seal body 546. The cartridge 506 can then be withdrawn or dropped from the receiving chamber 510.

[0154] 15A, 15B, and 16 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 300. In particular, FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view, respectively, of an aerosol delivery device 300 including a removable cartridge 306, a slider assembly 308, and a separate ignition actuator 340. The aerosol delivery device 300 includes a two-piece holder 302 comprising an upper body portion 301 and a lower body portion 303, each defining a proximal end and a distal end. However, in alternative embodiments, the holder 302 may comprise a single body.

[0155] Lower body portion 303 defines a receiving chamber 310 disposed therein and configured to receive a removable cartridge 306 including an ignitable heat source 320 and a substrate portion 322 including a substrate material having an aerosol precursor composition configured to form an aerosol upon application of heat. Lower body portion 303 includes a pair of actuable igniter contacts 328 disposed proximate a distal end thereof and coupled thereto via a pair of elongated bodies 325. Actuable igniter contacts 328 are configured to be engageable with ignitable heat source 320 when removable cartridge 306 is secured within receiving chamber 310. Specifically, igniter contacts 328 are configured to be movable between a first position spaced apart from ignitable heat source 320 and a second position in contact with ignitable heat source 320.

[0156] In the illustrated embodiment, each contact 328 and elongated body 325 is formed from a single flat strip of metal (e.g., copper, silver, gold, or other conductive material) with one end curled or otherwise shaped to form the igniter contact 328 and the other end remaining substantially flat to form the contact arm 328. Alternatively, the contacts 328 and elongated body 325 may be formed from a single strip of material, with each end curled or otherwise shaped to form the first and second igniter contacts 328 and an intermediate portion bent or otherwise shaped to at least partially surround the receiving chamber 310. The intermediate portion forms a single elongated body 325 extending on each side of the receiving chamber 310 so that the igniter contacts 328 can be deflected toward each other to contact the ignitable heat source 320. The bent portion of the single elongated body 325 provides a spring force that biases the igniter contacts to their first position.

[0157] Additionally, lower body portion 303 includes a window 382 disposed therein and configured to provide a view of at least a portion of receiving chamber 310 so that a user can observe cartridge 308 and / or electrical contacts 328. All or a portion of the window may comprise a transparent or translucent material (e.g., glass material, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, acrylic, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of lower body portion 303 may be made from a transparent or translucent material.

[0158] Upper body portion 301 houses power supply 312, printed circuit board 318 with associated electronics, and sliding actuator assembly 308. Sliding actuator assembly 308 is slidably disposed within upper body portion 301 and configured to eject a removable cartridge from lower body portion 303. Upper body portion 301 further defines a passageway (e.g., first aerosol passageway) 350. Upper body portion 301 and lower body portion 303 are movably coupled together via mechanism 384 (e.g., a swivel joint). Lower body portion 303 can rotate relative to upper body portion 301 to expose receiving chamber 310 and allow a removable cartridge to be loaded therein. In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device 300 further comprises a locking mechanism 385 disposed on at least one of the lower body portion 303 or the upper body portion 301, the locking mechanism configured to maintain the device in a closed orientation (i.e., the upper and lower body portions are aligned and in fluid and / or electrical communication). The locking mechanism 385 may include, for example, one or more of a magnet, friction, a snap fit, or a detent. However, in some other embodiments, the upper body portion 301 and the lower body portion 303 may be integrally formed together or fixedly coupled to one another. Other methods of movably coupling the upper body portion 301 and the lower body portion 303 include a hinge joint, a sliding track, or the like.

[0159] The device 300 further comprises a mouthpiece 304 having a first end 304a and a longitudinally opposed second end 304b, with a second aerosol passageway 354 extending longitudinally therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 304 is disposed at the proximal end of the upper body portion 301, with the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with the proximal end of the upper body portion 303. The mouthpiece 304 is configured for sealing engagement with the upper body portion 301 such that the first and second aerosol passageways 350, 354 are in fluid communication to deliver aerosol generated in the receiving chamber to the user. The mouthpiece 304 may be removably coupled to the upper body portion 301, for example, to provide for cleaning or customization of the device 300. However, in other embodiments, the mouthpiece 304 may be integrally formed with the upper body portion 301.

[0160] As further shown by the exploded view of FIG. 16 , slider actuator assembly 308 comprises a generally tubular slider body 330 positionable within upper body portion 301 for sliding movement in first and second directions along the length of upper body portion 301. Slider body 330 defines a recess 338 extending therethrough that forms a portion of first aerosol passageway 350 through upper body portion 301. Slider body 330 includes a first protrusion 331 extending from its outer surface and extending through opening 316 in the wall of upper body portion 301 that is configured to move slider body 330 between a loading position (see FIG. 17A ) and an ejection position (see FIGS. 17C and 17D ). Slider body 330 further includes a second protrusion or stem 333 extending from a distal end thereof. Stem 333 is configured to engage removable cartridge 306 to advance the removable cartridge through the distal end of lower body portion 303 when actuator assembly 308 is moved to the ejection position. Portions of the protrusions extend into receptacle 338 such that the vapor / air path is split around those portions.

[0161] The upper body portion 301 further defines two cavities 307, 309, the first cavity 307 configured to receive the slider body 130, and the second cavity configured to house the power supply 312 and printed circuit board 318. Additionally, the actuator assembly 308, and specifically the slider body 330, includes a seal arrangement for sealingly engaging the inner surface of the first cavity 307 (e.g., to prevent aerosol leakage or unwanted air ingress). In the illustrated embodiment, the seal arrangement comprises a pair of O-rings 360 disposed in grooves 361 located proximate the distal and proximal ends of the slider body 330. However, other configurations of the seal arrangement are contemplated and considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0162] Lower body portion 303 also defines two cavities 307' (including receiving chamber 310), 309' that are generally aligned with cavities 307, 309 in upper body portion 301. Specifically, first cavity 307' is defined by receiving chamber 310 and opposing openings 315, 315' and, in some embodiments, includes a bar 311 or other structure for supporting window 382 and / or guiding cartridge 306 during insertion. In the illustrated embodiment, lower body portion 303 defines a notch or other opening that exposes receiving chamber 310 and is configured to receive window 382 therein. Window 382 may be mounted or coupled to lower body portion 303 via adhesive, a snap fit, or other means known in the art. Cavity 307' / receiving chamber 310 includes a groove or other structure for securing therein a retention mechanism 376 that engages with the exterior surface of cartridge 306 as described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, retention mechanism 376 is an O-ring.

[0163] Second cavity 309' is generally configured to house various electronics and other mechanisms necessary to power igniter contact 328 and activate it to ignite heat source 320 (see FIG. 17B ) of cartridge 306. For example, elongated body 325 is electrically coupled to a power source within second cavity 309' and extends through the wall of second cavity 309', thereby positioning igniter contact 328 within receiving chamber 310. Lower body portion 303 further defines a pair of openings 363 therethrough, located on opposite sides of lower body portion 303 and configured to engage actuator button 340 and light-emitting diode (LED) 341, described below.

[0164] The overall operation of the device 300, and the specific operation of the slider actuator assembly 308, will be described with reference to Figures 17A-17D, which show a series of views of the aerosol delivery device 300 in various states of operation. Specifically, Figure 17A depicts the cartridge 306 being loaded into the device 300 (i.e., the actuator assembly in the loaded position), Figure 17B depicts the device 300 during lighting and smoking, and Figures 17C and 17D depict the cartridge 306 being ejected from the device 300 (i.e., the actuator assembly in the ejected position).

[0165] 17A , to load a cartridge into receiving chamber 310, lower body portion 303 is rotated or otherwise offset (e.g., twisted) from upper body portion 301 to expose the receiving chamber through opening 315′. Prior to rotating the body portions, actuator assembly 308 is moved to a loading position (i.e., fully retracted toward mouthpiece 304) such that sliding body 330 is fully positioned within first cavity 307 of upper body portion 301. Cartridge 306 is manually inserted into receiving chamber 310 of lower body portion 303 to place cartridge 306 in a lighting and / or use position, whereby the cartridge is sealingly secured within chamber 310 via retention mechanism 376, whereby ignitable heat source 320 is operatively aligned with igniter contact 328. After loading, the upper and lower body portions are brought back into alignment so that the sealed end of cartridge 306 is in fluid communication with first aerosol passageway 350. The fit between the upper and lower body portions is such that there is no aerosol leakage or air ingress between them, with or without the use of additional sealing configurations.

[0166] As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, holder 302 is a unitary body (e.g., the upper body portion extends essentially the entire length of the device) configured to house all of the components as previously described without the need for rotation and locking mechanisms 384, 385. In such embodiments, cartridge 306 may be loaded through the distal end of holder 302, similar to other embodiments described herein.

[0167] 15A, 16, 17A, and 17B, in the lighting / use position, the distal end of cartridge 306 is positioned proximate the distal end of lower body portion 303 such that cartridge 306 is positioned entirely within receiving chamber 310. Notably, in the lighting / use position of the illustrated embodiment, heat source 320 portion of cartridge 306 is also positioned proximate the distal end of lower body portion 303 and is aligned with igniter contact 328 in the lighting position. Heat source 320 is ignited via an aligned push button 340 located on the opposite side of lower body portion 303 of aerosol delivery device 300. Button 340 is movably coupled to the lower body portion, with or without a sealing arrangement, so that a user can simultaneously depress both buttons (e.g., via a pinching action) to engage and flex elongated body 325, extending to move igniter contact 328 into contact with ignitable heat source 320. When released, buttons 340 return to their original positions, at least in part via spring action from deflected elongate body 325 and / or return biasing elements. Device 300 includes a pair of LEDs 341 that can illuminate and / or change color during ignition to indicate the status of device 300. Additionally, a user can observe ignition through window 382.

[0168] 17C and 17D . Generally, the ejection mechanism is configured to eject the cartridge 306 from the distal end of the lower body portion 303 through an opening 315. Between loading and ejection, the cartridge 306 passes through a second cavity 309. In one embodiment, the ejection mechanism is incorporated into the actuator assembly 308, whereby the slider protrusion 331 (and actuator assembly 308) moves forward until it engages one end of the cartridge 306, pushing it out of the receiving chamber 310 and out of the aerosol delivery device 300 through the opening 315 in the lower body portion 303. Specifically, a user can slide the actuator assembly 308 forward (i.e., away from the mouthpiece) using, for example, their thumb and protrusion 331, so that the inner stem 333 of the slider body 330 engages and pushes the cartridge 306 forward, disengaging it from the retention mechanism 376. The cartridge 306 can then be withdrawn from the device 300 or dropped from the device.

[0169] 17C shows the device 300 prior to ejection, with the actuator assembly 306 fully retracted and the slider body 330 fully positioned within the cavity 309. As shown, the proximal end of the cartridge 306 engages a retention feature 376 configured to retain the cartridge within the receiving chamber. In some embodiments, the feature 376 is a silicone seal configured to frictionally and / or sealingly engage the cartridge 306 such that the cartridge 306 is temporarily "locked" in place when the cartridge 306 is pressed into and fully received within the receiving chamber 310. However, in other embodiments, the cartridge may include a mating structure (e.g., a recess or groove) configured to engage the retention feature 376 to further secure the cartridge within the receiving chamber 310.

[0170] 17D, the actuator assembly 308 moves forward (i.e., away from the mouthpiece) to the ejection position such that a portion of the stem 333 enters the cavity 307′ in the lower body portion 303 and engages the cartridge 306. As the actuator assembly moves forward, the stem 333 pushes the cartridge 306 forward such that the cartridge 306 disengages from the cartridge retention mechanism 376.

[0171] 18A and 18B show distal end views of the aerosol delivery device 300 further illustrating the actuation of the igniter contact 328. Specifically, FIG. 18A shows the igniter contact 328 in a first, inactivated position, in which the igniter contact 328 is positioned near, but not in contact with, the ignitable heat source 320. As can be seen through the opening 315 at the distal end of the lower body portion 303 (generally the holder), there are two openings 321 (only one of which is shown) disposed between cavities 307′, 309′ (see FIG. 19 ) through which the elongated body 325 extends. Two spring-loaded buttons 340 are disposed on opposite sides of the holder 303, each extending slightly above the outer surface of the holder. The buttons 340 are positioned proximate to the elongated body 325 (see FIG. 17B ) and are configured to contact the elongated body 325 when pressed. A charging port 319 is also shown.

[0172] FIG. 18B shows igniter contacts 328 in a second, actuated position, with contacts 328 in contact with ignitable heat source 320. As shown, spring-loaded push button 340 are simultaneously pressed to activate ignition. Specifically, when button 340 is pressed, power is activated, forcing igniter contacts 328 against ignitable heat source 320. Releasing button 340 terminates power and automatically causes igniter contacts 328 to move away from the tip (e.g., return to their first position). FIG. 18C is a partial side view of the distal end of device 300. As can be seen, there are LEDs 341 positioned adjacent to push button 340 on either side of holder 303. When button 340 is pressed, both LEDs 341 illuminate; however, in other embodiments, the LEDs can illuminate and / or change color to indicate the state of the device. Additionally, the user can view the tip of the cartridge 306 (the ignitable heat source 320 ) as it ignites through an optional window 382 .

[0173] 19-27C illustrate another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 400. In particular, FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate front and side views, respectively, of the aerosol delivery device 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol delivery device 400 includes a holder 402 having a body defining a proximal end 402a and a distal end 402b, the holder 402 further defining a receiving chamber 410 configured to receive a removable cartridge 406 (see FIG. 21 ). In some embodiments, the removable cartridge 406 comprises an ignitable heat source 420 and a substrate portion 422 including a substrate material having an aerosol precursor composition configured to form an aerosol upon application of heat. The device 400 also includes a pair of actuable igniter contacts 428 configured to be engageable with the ignitable heat source 420 when the removable cartridge 406 is secured within the receiving chamber 410. Specifically, igniter contacts 428 are configured to be movable between a first position spaced apart from ignitable heat source 420 and a second position in contact with ignitable heat source 420. In some embodiments, holder 402 includes a first biasing mechanism (442 in FIG. 25A ) for maintaining igniter contacts in the first position. Device 400 further includes igniter push button 440 configured to ignite heat source 420 as described below, an LED indicator 441 configured to indicate the status or operation of device 400, and a charging port 419 located on a sidewall of device 400.

[0174] The device 400 also includes a mouthpiece (also referred to herein as a mouthpiece assembly) 404 removably secured to the holder 402. The removable mouthpiece 404 is configured to engage a proximal end of the holder 402 and may be retained therein via a retention mechanism (e.g., mechanical engagement). The mouthpiece 404 is described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 21-23C. The mouthpiece 404 includes a first portion 407 comprising an elongated body defined by a first end 407a and an opposite longitudinal second end 407b and having a passageway 413 extending therethrough, and a second portion 405 defined by a first end 405a and an opposite longitudinal second end 405b and having a first aerosol passageway 454 extending therethrough. The first end of the second portion 405 is configured to engage with the user's mouth, and a portion of the second end 405b is slidably positioned within the passage 413 of the first portion 407 of the mouthpiece 404, adjacent to the first end 407a of the first portion 407 of the mouthpiece 404.

[0175] The mouthpiece assembly 404 further includes a slider body 430 defined by a first end 430a and a longitudinally opposed second end 430b, with a second aerosol passageway 450 extending therethrough. The slider body 430 is slidably disposed within the first portion of the mouthpiece 407, with the first end 430a of the slider body 430 coupled to the second end 405b of the second portion 405 of the mouthpiece 404 (e.g., via a retention mechanism 469 similar to any of those disclosed herein), and the second end 430b of the slider body 430 configured to engage with the removable cartridge 406. The second portion 405 of the mouthpiece 404 is configured to sealingly engage with the slider body 430 such that the first and second aerosol passageways 450, 454 are in fluid communication to deliver aerosol generated in the receiving chamber to a user via an outlet 458. In the illustrated embodiment, the slider body second end 430b includes a stem 433 configured to engage and eject the removable cartridge 406 upon application of a force to the mouthpiece second portion 405. The slider body 430 is also configured to slidably engage the inner tubular body 403, for example, via one or more protrusions 479a disposed about the outer surface of the slider body 430 and mating with one or more slots 479b disposed in the wall of the inner tubular body 403. The slider body 430 may be configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along the length of the first portion 407 of the mouthpiece 404.

[0176] The inner tubular body 403 is defined by a first end 403a and a longitudinally opposed second end 403b and is configured to slidably receive the slider body 430 therein. The inner tubular body 403 further defines a receptacle 438 sized and shaped to hold a second biasing mechanism 439 therein. The second end 403b of the inner tubular body 403 is configured to engage with the mouthpiece first portion 407 proximate its second end 403b. For example, the inner tubular body 403 may be configured to engage with the inner surface of the mouthpiece first portion 407 via at least one of threaded engagement, press-fit engagement, snap-fit ​​engagement, or complementary threaded surfaces for magnetic engagement. A portion 410' of the receiving chamber 410 of the device 400 is coupled to the second end 407b of the first portion of the mouthpiece 404 and is at least partially defined by an outlet guide 446 partially housed within the second end 403b of the inner tubular body 403. The outlet guide 446 defines a portion of the cavity 410' configured to sealingly engage and removably secure the removable cartridge 406 via a retention feature (e.g., an O-ring 460) disposed therein.

[0177] The second biasing mechanism 439 is configured to maintain the mouthpiece assembly 404 in the loaded configuration. Specifically, the slider body 430 is biased toward the first end 407a of the first portion 407 of the mouthpiece 404, so that the cartridge may be loaded and secured within the outlet guide 446 (see FIGS. 23A and 23B). To eject the cartridge 406 from the mouthpiece assembly 404, a user applies force (i.e., pushes down) on the second portion 405 of the mouthpiece assembly to press the slider body 430 against the second biasing mechanism 439. The second biasing mechanism 439 is compressed within the inner tubular body 403, causing the stem 433 to engage the cartridge 406 and push it out and beyond the retention mechanism 460 (see FIG. 23C). When the cartridge 406 disengages from the retention mechanism, it can slide freely from the mouthpiece 404.

[0178] The holder 402 (also referred to herein as a holder assembly) is shown in more detail in FIGS. 21 and 24. As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 24, the device 400 is disposed within the holder 402 and includes a two-part inner housing 424 defining one or more receptacles or cavities 467 defined therein and configured to hold certain components, such as a power source 412 and / or one or more printed circuit boards 418. The power source 412 is in electrical communication with the printed circuit board 418 and igniter contacts 428, which may be energized via a push button 440 located on a sidewall of the holder 402. Specifically, when the push button 440 is actuated, an electrical circuit is completed and electricity is supplied to the igniter contacts 428. In some embodiments, the igniter push button 440 may be configured to activate the igniter contacts 428 for a set period of time after release, or the igniter contacts are deactivated when the igniter push button is released. The printed circuit board 418 may further include a charging port 419 oriented on the printed circuit board to be located on a side of the holder 402 .

[0179] The inner housing 424 includes an upper housing 424a and a lower housing 424b that can be coupled together (e.g., via a snap fit or fasteners) and / or to the holder 402. The holder 402 further includes an outer tubular body 403′ that is disposed within a first one of the receptacles 467 and defines an internal cavity or passageway 413′ configured to slidably receive the mouthpiece assembly 404 therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the passageways 413, 413′ are generally coaxial. However, they need not be coaxial, and their orientation may depend on the overall shape and configuration of the device 400. The mouthpiece 404 may be retained therein by magnetic engagement with a ring magnet 427 disposed at the distal end of the outer tubular body 403′. The holder includes an end cap 414 disposed at the distal end 402b of the holder. The end cap 414 is coupled to the distal end 402b of the holder and defines an opening 415 that communicates with the internal cavity 413' of the outer tubular body 403'. The end cap 414 may be configured to secure at least one of the lower (inner) housing 424b or the outer tubular body 403' within the holder. The upper (inner) housing 424a may include structure equivalent to the end cap 414 disposed at its proximal end and configured to secure the upper housing 424a to the holder. In some embodiments, the ends of the inner housings 424a, 424b may include retention features 469 configured to engage with the ends of the holder 402 and / or end cap 414. In one exemplary embodiment, the end cap 414 is secured to the holder 402 via mechanical fasteners (e.g., set screws 462a and hex nuts 462b).

[0180] The receiving chamber 410 of the device 400 is further defined by an end cap 414, with an opening 415 configured to allow air to enter the device 400 and flow through the receiving chamber 410 / cartridge 406. The holder 402 is disposed within the receiving chamber 410 proximate the distal end of the holder and further comprises a pair of actuatable igniter contacts 428 movably coupled to the end cap 414 (specifically, to the body or standoff 414a of the end cap 414) via a pivot pin 480 and biased to a first position or neutral configuration (non-ignited) via a first biasing mechanism 442. Operation of the actuatable igniter contacts 428 is described in more detail with respect to Figures 25A, 25B, 26A, and 26B. As shown in Figures 24-26B, each of the actuable igniter contacts 428 includes an elongated body 426, with a contact portion 428 disposed proximate the distal end of each of the elongated bodies 426a, 426b. The elongated bodies are pivotally coupled to an end cap 414 disposed within the distal end of the holder 402. The elongated bodies 426 are coupled to the end cap 414 via a pivot pin 480 disposed proximate their midpoints and a first biasing mechanism 442 (e.g., two torsion springs coupled to the proximal end of the elongated bodies 426) to maintain the elongated bodies 426 in a first position. See Figures 25A and 25B.

[0181] The holder 402 further includes an internally disposed actuator assembly 408 configured to actuate the igniter contact 428 between a first position and a second position. The actuator assembly 408 includes a solenoid 487 in electrical communication with the power source 412 and an angled collar 489 engageable with the proximal end of the solenoid 487 and the elongated body 426. The actuator assembly 408 is at least partially disposed with one of the receptacles 467 of the inner housing 424 and / or coupled to the outer tubular body 403'. The collar 489 (or other type of driver mechanism) may be coupled to the solenoid 487 via the plunger 483, or may be movably disposed within the lower housing 424b to be driven forward or downward by the plunger 483 when the solenoid 487 is energized and the plunger 483 advances. See FIGS. 26A and 26B. In the illustrated embodiment, the collar 489 has a sloped or wedge-shaped configuration and is oriented so that its leading edge 489a is inserted between and contacts the proximal end of the elongated body 426. As the collar 489 advances, the sloped surface of the collar 489 pushes the proximal end of the elongated body 426 outward, causing the body 426 to rotate relative to the end cap 414, thereby moving the igniter contact 428 into contact with the ignitable heat source 420 of the cartridge 406 (i.e., the second position). When the solenoid 487 is de-energized, the plunger 483 is retracted inward (e.g., spring-loaded). If the collar 469 is coupled to the plunger 483, it is retracted along with it. The retraction of the collar 489 allows the igniter contact 428 to return to the first position via the first biasing mechanism 442. In some embodiments, for example, when the collar 489 is not coupled to the plunger 483, the spring force of the first biasing mechanism 442 is sufficient to push the collar 489 out from between the proximal ends of the elongate body 426 when the plunger 483 is retracted.

[0182] The operation of the aerosol delivery device 400 is further described with reference to FIGS. 27A-27C. Generally, the mouthpiece assembly 404 may have a cartridge 406 loaded therein in a manner similar to the aerosol delivery device 100 shown in FIGS. 4A and 5A. However, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 27A, the mouthpiece 404 may be removed from the holder 402 and contacted with a cartridge 406 secured within a package 499 configured to hold multiple cartridges 406. Once the cartridge 406 is loaded into the outlet guide 446, it is retained therein via a retention mechanism 460, and the mouthpiece 404 and cartridge 406 are withdrawn from the package 499. The user can then insert the loaded mouthpiece 404 into the holder 402 through an opening 415′ in the proximal end of the upper housing 424a, as shown in FIG. 27B (see also FIG. 21). The mouthpiece 404 may be retained within the holder 402 via the retention mechanism 427 until a user decides to remove / replace the cartridge (e.g., after the cartridge is completely consumed). The mouthpiece 404 may be removed by applying a pulling and / or twisting action to the mouthpiece 404 to disengage the mouthpiece 404 from the holder 402. After the mouthpiece 404 is removed from the holder 402, the cartridge 406 can be ejected from the mouthpiece, as described above with respect to FIG. 23C . In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 404 does not need to be removed from the holder 402 to eject the cartridge 406. The cartridge is still ejected by depressing the second portion 405 of the mouthpiece 404, pushing the cartridge 406 distally from the outlet guide 446, as the cartridge continues to move forward and out of the opening 415 in the end cap 414 of the holder 402.

[0183] Once fully inserted, a user can press igniter push button 440 to ignite ignitable heat source 420 in cartridge 406. Specifically, pressing igniter push button 440 actuates igniter contacts 428 (i.e., electrically couples contacts 428 to power source 412), as shown in FIG. 27C. Actuating push button 440 also electrically couples power source 412 to the actuator assembly, specifically solenoid 487, which moves energized igniter contacts 428 into contact with ignitable heat source 420 (i.e., the second position).

[0184] In some embodiments, the LED 441 associated with the push button 440 illuminates when the igniter contacts 428 are energized and can change state (e.g., solid, flashing to a different color or intensity, etc.) when the igniter contacts 428 make contact with the cartridge 406. In various embodiments, the device 400 can be programmed to de-energize the igniter contacts after the push button 440 is released and / or after a set period of time (e.g., 30 seconds). Similarly, the solenoid 487 may be energized for as long as the button 440 is pressed or for a set period of time, such as a time sufficient for ignition to be achieved. In some embodiments, the actuator assembly 408 (i.e., the solenoid 487) may be of a “latch” type that maintains its extended configuration without continuously drawing power. The actuator assembly 408 may be retracted by pressing the button a second time or twice in rapid succession, or by similar means. The LED 441 may also be configured to indicate various other operating states (e.g., low power, charging, etc.), for example, by changing color, flashing, etc.

[0185] In some embodiments, mouthpiece assembly 404 may be removed from holder 402 after ignition, such that the user need only hold mouthpiece assembly 404. Alternatively or additionally, cartridge 406 may be ignited manually to eliminate the need for holder 402 in certain situations.

[0186] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing or holder 102 can comprise a rigid material. For example, the holders 102, 202, 301, 303, 402, and 502 in the illustrated embodiment can be constructed of an aluminum material. However, in other embodiments, the holders can be constructed of other materials, including other metallic materials (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, silver, gold, bronze, titanium, various alloys, etc.), graphite materials, ceramic materials, plastic materials, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heat source and / or at least a portion of the substrate material can be circumscribed by a paper-foil laminate. In some embodiments, the cartridge can comprise a housing comprising a laminate including the heat source and the bead substrate material. Some examples of laminates and / or housings that may be applicable to the present disclosure can be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0128880 to Gage et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other examples of cartridges are described herein below with respect to FIGS. 28 and 29.

[0187] In some embodiments, the holder (or any component thereof) can be made of a moldable plastic material, such as polycarbonate, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (nylon), or polypropylene. In other embodiments, the holder can be made of a different material, such as a different plastic material, a metal material (e.g., but not limited to, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, silver, gold, bronze, titanium, various alloys, etc.), a graphite material, a glass material, a ceramic material, a natural material (e.g., but not limited to, wood), a composite material, or any combination thereof. The holder can be formed by extrusion molding. As mentioned above, the mouthpiece portion in some embodiments is separable from the main body, while in other embodiments, the mouthpiece portion can be integral with the main body. In any case, the mouthpiece portion and the main body can be made of the same material or different materials. In various embodiments with a detachable mouthpiece portion, the mouthpiece portion may be coupled to the body in various ways, including, for example, one or more of a snap fit, an interference fit, a screw thread, a magnetic, and / or a bayonet connection. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece portion may be integral with the body and therefore not detachable.

[0188] In the illustrated embodiment, the holder includes substantially solid, non-porous walls. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the holder's walls can have other configurations. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the holder's walls can be non-solid and / or substantially porous, or can include one or more non-solid and / or substantially porous portions. In some embodiments, for example, the holder can include one or more openings that can facilitate oxygen access to the heat source. Alternatively or additionally, other embodiments can include one or more openings that can mix with the aerosol generated during inhalation. In this manner, in the use position, one or more openings can be positioned proximate to the heat source, thereby providing the heat source with additional access to oxygen during combustion. In some embodiments, the holder can include one or more openings downstream of the heat source. For example, in some embodiments, the holder can include an opening extending into the holder's aerosol passageway that can mix with the aerosol generated by the cartridge's substrate material.

[0189] As previously described, the holders of various embodiments of the present disclosure include a lighting / use position. In some embodiments, the holder may also have an extinguisher position. In this manner, the extinguisher position may be configured so that the heat source of the cartridge is deprived of sufficient oxygen to sustain combustion. In some embodiments, the extinguisher position may be attained by further movement of the holder. In other embodiments, one or more additional features may be included, and the extinguisher position may be attained by activating the one or more additional features. In particular, the holder of one embodiment may include an air-impermeable cover feature disposed proximate the distal end of the holder, which may be mechanically or manually actuable (e.g., by rotating the cover feature over the end of the body and / or by sliding the cover feature across the end of the body) so that, in the extinguisher position, the cover feature substantially covers the open end of the holder and the heat source of the cartridge is deprived of sufficient oxygen to sustain combustion. In another embodiment, the holder may include a removable feature, such as an end cap, that may be used to achieve the extinguisher position. For example, in some embodiments, a separate end cap may be attachable to the distal end of the holder, such that the heat source of the cartridge is deprived of sufficient oxygen to sustain combustion. Such an end cap may also be used to cover the end of the second body portion when not in use, e.g., to prevent dirt and / or foreign matter from entering the device. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the holder of the present disclosure may include a breathable cover feature (e.g., a cover feature including multiple openings or a cover feature comprising a mesh) that protects the heat source of the cartridge in the lighting / use position. For example, the holder of one embodiment may include a breathable cover feature disposed proximate the distal end of the holder that may be mechanically or manually actuable (e.g., by rotating the cover feature over the end of the holder and / or by sliding the cover feature across the end of the holder), such that once ignited, the cover feature can be actuated to substantially cover the open end of the holder while maintaining sufficient oxygen access to the heat source.

[0190] In various embodiments, the removable cartridge may have other configurations for use with the holders of the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of a removable cartridge 606 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge 606 defines a proximal end 690 and a distal end 692. The cartridge 606 of the illustrated embodiment further includes an ignitable heat source 620 comprising a fuel element 694, a substrate portion 622 comprising a substrate material 696 (see FIG. 29 ), and an outer housing 698 configured to surround at least a portion of the ignitable heat source 620 and the substrate material 622. It should be noted that, although in the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge 606 has a substantially cylindrical overall shape, in various other embodiments, the cartridge or any of its components may have different shapes. For example, in some embodiments, the cartridge (and / or any of its components) may have a substantially rectangular shape, such as a substantially rectangular cuboid shape. In other embodiments, the cartridge (and / or any of its components) may have other handheld shapes. Some examples of cartridge configurations that may be applicable to the present disclosure are found in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 515,637, filed July 18, 2019, entitled Aerosol Delivery Device With Consumable Cartridge, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0191] In some embodiments, a barrier may be present between the heat source and the substrate material. In some embodiments, such a barrier may comprise a disk that may include one or more openings. In some embodiments, the barrier may be composed of a metallic material (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, silver, gold, bronze, titanium, various alloys, etc.), a graphite material, a ceramic material, a plastic material, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a heat transfer component, which may or may not comprise a barrier, may be present between the heat source and the substrate material. Some examples of heat transfer components are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0281891 to Hejazi et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the barrier and / or heat transfer component may prevent or inhibit combustion gases from being drawn through the substrate material (and / or through the air passages through which aerosols are drawn).

[0192] In various embodiments, the heat source may be configured to generate heat upon ignition. In the illustrated embodiment, the ignitable heat source 620 has a generally cylindrical shape and includes a combustible fuel element 694 incorporating a combustible carbonaceous material. In other embodiments, the heat source may have a different shape, such as a prismatic shape with a cubic or hexagonal cross section. Carbonaceous materials generally have a high carbon content. Some carbonaceous materials may be primarily composed of carbon and / or may have a carbon content, on a dry weight basis, typically greater than about 60%, generally greater than about 70%, often greater than about 80%, and often greater than about 90%.

[0193] In some cases, the heat source may incorporate elements other than combustible carbonaceous materials (e.g., tobacco components such as powdered tobacco or tobacco extract; flavoring agents; salts such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and sodium carbonate; thermostable graphite hollow cylindrical (e.g., tubing) fibers; iron oxide powder; glass filaments; powdered calcium carbonate; alumina granules; an ammonia source such as an ammonia salt; and / or binders such as guar gum, ammonium alginate, and sodium alginate). In other embodiments, the heat source may comprise a plurality of ignitable objects, such as a plurality of ignitable beads. Note that in other embodiments, the heat source may differ in composition or relative content from those described above. For example, in some embodiments, different forms of carbon, such as graphite or graphene, may be used as the heat source. In other embodiments, the heat source may have increased levels of activated carbon, different carbon porosities, different amounts of carbon, blends of any of the aforementioned components, etc. In still other embodiments, the heat source may comprise a non-carbon heat source, such as a flammable liquefied gas configured to generate heat upon ignition. For example, in some embodiments, the liquefied gas may include one or more of petroleum gas (LPG or LPG), propane, propylene, butylene, butane, isobutene, methylpropane, or n-butane. In yet other embodiments, the heat source may comprise a chemical reaction-based heat source, where ignition of the heat source involves the interaction of two or more individual components. For example, a chemical reaction-based heat source may include a metal agent and an activating solution, where contact between the metal agent and the activating solution activates the heat source. Some examples of chemical-based heat sources may be found in U.S. Patent No. 7,290,549 to Banerjee et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Combinations of heat sources are also possible. While the specific dimensions of applicable heat sources may vary, in the illustrated embodiment, ignitable heat source 620 has a length in the inclusive range of about 5 mm to about 20 mm, and in some embodiments may be about 12 mm, and an overall diameter in the inclusive range of about 3 mm to about 8 mm, and in some embodiments may be about 4.8 mm (and in some embodiments, about 7 mm).

[0194] In other embodiments, the heat source may be constructed in a variety of ways, but in the illustrated embodiment, the ignitable heat source 620 is extruded or composited using crushed or powdered carbonaceous material, with a dry weight of approximately 0.5 g / cm 3 often exceeding about 0.7 g / cm 3 often exceeding about 1 g / cm 3 See, for example, fuel source components, formulations and designs of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 5,551,451 to Riggs et al. and U.S. Patent No. 7,836,897 to Borschke et al., which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0195] In various embodiments, the heat source can have a variety of configurations, including, for example, a substantially solid cylinder or a hollow cylinder (e.g., a tube). In other embodiments, the heat source may comprise a plurality of hollow or substantially solid spheres, which in some embodiments can comprise substantially the same size and in other embodiments can comprise two or more sizes. In various embodiments, the heat source can be fabricated by a variety of methods, including, but not limited to, extrusion, injection molding, compression molding, etc. The ignitable heat source 620 of the illustrated embodiment comprises an extruded monolithic carbonaceous material having a generally cylindrical shape including a plurality of internal passages 691 extending longitudinally from a first end of the ignitable heat source 620 to an opposing second end of the ignitable heat source 620. In the illustrated embodiment, there are approximately thirteen internal passages 691, including a single central internal passage 691a, six peripheral internal passages 680b spaced apart from the central internal passage 691a and having a size (e.g., diameter) similar to that of the central internal passage 691a, and six peripheral internal passages 691c spaced apart from the outer surface of the ignitable heat source 620 and having a diameter smaller than that of the central internal passage 691a. Note that in other embodiments, there need not be multiple internal passages, and / or the multiple internal passages can take other forms and / or sizes. For example, in some embodiments, there may be as few as two internal passages, and still other embodiments may include as few as one internal passage. Still other embodiments may not include any internal passages at all. Additional embodiments may include multiple internal passages that may be of unequal diameters and / or shapes, may be unevenly spaced apart, and / or may be disposed within the heat source.

[0196] Alternatively or additionally, some embodiments may include one or more peripheral grooves extending longitudinally from a first end of the heat source to an opposite second end, while in other embodiments, the grooves need not extend the entire length of the heat source. In some embodiments, such grooves may be substantially equal in width and depth and may be substantially evenly distributed around the circumference of the heat source. In such embodiments, there may be as few as two grooves, and still other embodiments may include as few as one groove. Still other embodiments may not include any grooves at all. Additional embodiments may include multiple grooves that may be of unequal width and / or depth and may be unevenly spaced around the circumference of the heat source. In still other embodiments, the heat source may include grooves and / or slits extending longitudinally from a first end of the extruded monolithic carbonaceous material to its opposite second end. In some embodiments, the heat source may include an expanded carbon monolith formed by an expansion process of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,615,184 to Lobovsky, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Thus, some embodiments can provide advantages in terms of reducing the time it takes to ignite the heat source. In some other embodiments, the heat source can be co-extruded with an insulating layer (not shown), thereby reducing manufacturing time and costs. Other fuel element embodiments include carbon fiber of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 4,922,901 to Brooks et al., or other heat source embodiments such as those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0044818 to Takeuchi et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Further examples of heat sources, including debossed heat source systems, methods, and smoking articles containing such heat sources, are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0254335 to Spicer et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0197] Generally, the heat source is positioned sufficiently close to the aerosol delivery component having one or more aerosolizable components (as well as any flavorings, medications, etc. similarly provided for delivery to a user) such that the aerosol formed / volatilized by the application of heat from the heat source to the aerosolizable component (e.g., substrate portion) is deliverable to a user via the mouthpiece. That is, when the heat source heats the substrate component, an aerosol is formed, released, or generated in a physical form suitable for inhalation by a consumer. Note that the foregoing terms mean that references to release, releasing, releases, or released are interchangeable to include forming or generating, forming or generating, forming or generating, and forming or generating. Specifically, the inhalable substance is released in the form of a vapor or an aerosol, or a mixture thereof. Furthermore, the selection of various smoking article components is understood in light of commercially available electronic smoking articles, such as the representative products listed in the Background section of this disclosure.

[0198] FIG. 29 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cartridge 606 of FIG. 28. As shown, the substrate material 622 of the illustrated embodiment has opposing first and second ends, and the ignitable heat source 620 is disposed adjacent the first end of the substrate material 622. While the dimensions and cross-sectional shape of the various components of the cartridge can vary depending on the needs of a particular application, in the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge 606 can have an overall length in the inclusive range of about 10 mm to about 50 mm and a diameter in the inclusive range of about 2 mm to about 20 mm. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing 698 can have a thickness in the inclusive range of about 0.05 mm to 0.5 mm. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the substrate portion 610 can have a length in the inclusive range of about 5 mm to 30 mm and a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the overall cartridge, for example, a diameter in the inclusive range of about 2.9 mm to about 9.9 mm, to accommodate the thickness of the housing 698. In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate material 622 comprises tobacco beads, which may have a diameter size ranging from approximately 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm, although other embodiments may vary in size. In other embodiments, the substrate material may be granular tobacco material or cut filler tobacco. Although other embodiments may vary, in the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing 698 of the cartridge 606 is filled to approximately 80-90% capacity to allow for insertion of the fuel element 694.

[0199] In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate portion 622 includes a substrate material 696 having a single segment, although in other embodiments, the substrate portion may include one or more additional substrate material segments. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may further include a second substrate material segment (not shown) having opposing first and second ends. As previously mentioned, in various embodiments, one or more of the substrate materials may include tobacco or a tobacco-related material and have an associated aerosol precursor composition. In other embodiments, a non-tobacco material, such as a cellulose pulp material, may be used. In other embodiments, the non-tobacco substrate material may not be a plant-derived material. Other possible compositions and / or ingredients (and / or substrate materials) for use in the substrate material are described above. See also the above discussion regarding various possible shapes of the substrate material, aerosol precursor compositions, additives, flavorings, etc.

[0200] As shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 , the outer housing 698 of the cartridge 606 in the illustrated embodiment is configured to circumscribe at least a portion of the substrate portion 622, including the substrate material 696. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing 698 is also configured to enclose a portion of the ignitable heat source 620. In some embodiments, the outer housing can enclose the entire heat source. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing comprises a rigid material. For example, the outer housing 698 in the illustrated embodiment is constructed of an aluminum material. However, in other embodiments, the outer housing may be constructed of other materials, including other metallic materials (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, silver, gold, bronze, titanium, various alloys, etc.), graphite materials, ceramic materials, plastic materials, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heat source and / or at least a portion of the substrate material may be circumscribed by a paper-foil laminate. In some embodiments, the cartridge may comprise a housing comprising a laminate including the heat source and the bead substrate material. Some examples of laminates and / or housings that may be applicable to the present disclosure may be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0128880 to Gage et al., the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0201] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing 698 is configured as a tubular structure that substantially encloses the substrate material 622. However, as previously mentioned, in other embodiments, the outer housing may have other shapes. While the shape of the outer housing may vary, in the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing 698 comprises a tubular structure having an open end and a closed end. The illustrated embodiment of the outer housing 698 also includes one or more end openings 693 located at the closed end of the outer housing 698 that are configured to allow aerosolized vapor (alternatively referred to herein as "vapor" or "aerosol") to pass therethrough. The end openings 693 in the illustrated embodiment are in the form of a pair of elongated, rounded slots. However, in other embodiments, the end openings may have any configuration that allows the passage of aerosol. Thus, it will be understood that the end openings 693 may include fewer or additional openings than those illustrated and / or openings of alternative shapes and sizes.

[0202] In various embodiments, the present disclosure may also be directed to kits providing various components as described herein. For example, a kit may include a holder with one or more cartridges. In another embodiment, a kit may include multiple holders. In a further embodiment, a kit may include multiple cartridges. In yet another embodiment, a kit may include multiple holders and multiple cartridges. Kits of the present invention may further include a case (or other packaging, transport, or storage component) for housing one or more additional kit components. The case may be a reusable rigid or flexible container. Additionally, the case may simply be a box or other packaging structure. In some embodiments, a brush or other cleaning accessory may be included in the kit. The cleaning accessory may be configured to be inserted into the cartridge-receiving chamber of the holder, or in other embodiments, may be inserted into a separate opening that allows a user to remove debris from the cartridge-receiving chamber.

[0203] Many modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure may come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. It is to be understood, therefore, that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol delivery device comprising: a holder comprising a body defining a proximal end and a distal end, the body further defining a receiving chamber configured to receive a removable cartridge comprising an ignitable heat source, and a first aerosol passageway extending through at least a portion of the body; a mouthpiece including a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end, with a second aerosol passageway extending longitudinally therebetween, the first end configured to engage with a user's mouth and the second end configured to engage with a proximal end of the holder; a power supply disposed within the main body; a dual purpose actuator assembly coupled to the holder and configured to ignite the ignitable heat source and eject the removable cartridge; An aerosol delivery device comprising:

2. The dual purpose actuator assembly a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and defining a receptacle configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along a length of the body; a spring-loaded push button coupled to the slider body to move the dual-purpose actuator assembly between a load position, a lighting position, and an eject position, the spring-loaded push button configured to engage the electrical contact when in the lighting position; a spring assembly configured to engage the slider body and bias the dual-purpose actuator assembly to a loaded position; 10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1, comprising:

3. The dual purpose actuator assembly a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and including an upper track, a lower track, and a collar coupling the upper track and the lower track to define a receptacle configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along a length of the body; a spring-loaded push button engageable with the upper track of the slider body to move the dual-purpose actuator assembly between a load position, a lighting position, and an eject position, the spring-loaded push button configured to engage an electrical contact when in the lighting position; a spring assembly configured to engage the slider body and bias the dual-purpose actuator assembly to a loaded position; 10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1, comprising:

4. The receiving chamber is an end cap engaged with the distal end of the body and defining an opening configured to receive a removable cartridge; an exit guide coupled to the slider body and slidably disposed within the body through the end cap, the exit guide defining a passageway configured to pass the removable cartridge; an inner slider seal body disposed within and sealingly coupled to the slider body receptacle, the inner slider seal body defining a cavity configured to sealingly engage the removable cartridge to removably secure the removable cartridge therein; 4. The aerosol delivery device of claim 3, comprising:

5. 5. The aerosol delivery device of claim 4, further comprising a pair of actuatable igniter contacts coupled to the dual-purpose actuator assembly, positioned proximate the distal end of the receiving chamber, and configured to be engaged with an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber.

6. The dual purpose actuator assembly a first contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive one of a pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the first contact arm being actuated via contact with a lower track of the slider body when the dual-purpose actuator assembly is moved to a lighting position; a second contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive the other of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second contact arm being actuated via contact with a lower track of the slider body when the dual-purpose actuator assembly is moved to the lighting position; Further provided with Actuation of the first and second contact arms moves the igniter contact into contact with an ignitable heat source; 6. The aerosol delivery device of claim 5.

7. 4. The aerosol delivery device of claim 3, wherein the holder defines a slot through its surface, the upper track of the slider body is sealingly engaged with the holder around the slot, and the slot is configured to slidably receive a spring-loaded push button therein.

8. an inner housing disposed within the body of the holder; a printed circuit board in electrical communication with the power source and including electrical contacts, the inner housing configured to receive the power source and the printed circuit board. The aerosol delivery device of claim 3 .

9. 9. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a charging port, and the printed circuit board is oriented within the inner housing so that the charging port is located at the proximal end of the holder.

10. 4. The aerosol delivery device of claim 3, wherein the receptacle of the slider body comprises an inner stem engageable with one end of the removable cartridge and defining a passage for passing aerosol generated from the removable cartridge.

11. 6. The aerosol delivery device of claim 5, wherein the outlet guide comprises a pair of opposing slots configured to allow igniter contacts to pass through and engage an ignitable heat source.

12. 5. The aerosol delivery device of claim 4, wherein the end cap is translucent and configured to allow light from an ignitable heat source to pass therethrough when ignited.

13. 11. The aerosol delivery device of claim 10, wherein the inner stem is configured to engage with and eject the removable cartridge when the dual-purpose actuator assembly is moved to the ejection position.

14. 1. An aerosol delivery device comprising: a holder comprising a body defining a proximal end and a distal end, the body further defining a receiving chamber configured to receive at least a portion of a removable cartridge comprising an ignitable heat source, and a passageway extending through at least a portion of the body; a mouthpiece configured to engage with a user's mouth; a power source disposed within the main body; a pair of actuatable igniter contacts disposed proximate the distal end of the body and configured to be engaged with an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber, the pair of actuatable igniter contacts movably coupled to the holder and movable between a first position spaced apart from the ignitable heat source and a second position in contact with the ignitable heat source; An aerosol delivery device comprising:

15. 15. The aerosol delivery device of claim 14, wherein each of the actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongate body and a contact portion disposed at a distal end thereof, the proximal end of the elongate body being rotatably coupled to the body, and the contact portions being rotatable toward each other to a second position.

16. 15. The aerosol delivery device of claim 14, wherein the pair of actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongated body extending between the actuatable igniter contacts, the elongated body being coupled to the body and shaped to at least partially surround the removable cartridge such that the actuatable igniter contacts are deflectable toward each other to a second position.

17. 15. The aerosol delivery device of claim 14, wherein each of the actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongated body and a contact portion disposed at a distal end thereof, the elongated body being rotatably coupled to the body and shaped to bias the igniter contact to a first position.

18. 15. The aerosol delivery device of claim 14, wherein the actuatable igniter contact is in electrical communication with a power source.

19. 15. The aerosol delivery device of claim 14, further comprising an actuator assembly coupled to the holder and configured to move the actuatable igniter contact between the first position and the second position.

20. 20. The aerosol delivery device of claim 19, wherein the actuator assembly is configured to couple the actuatable igniter contact to the holder.

21. 20. The aerosol delivery device of claim 19, wherein the actuator assembly moves the igniter contact into electrical communication with the power source.

22. The actuator assembly a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and defining a receptacle configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along a length of the body; an actuator coupled to the slider body and configured to move the actuator assembly between a loading position, a writing position, and an ejecting position; a spring assembly configured to engage the slider body and bias the actuator assembly toward the loaded position; Equipped with the actuator assembly is configured to engage the actuatable igniter contact to move the igniter contact from the first position to the second position; 20. The aerosol delivery device of claim 19.

23. 23. The aerosol delivery device of claim 22, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises a spring-loaded push button coupled to the slider body and configured to be engageable with the electrical contacts when in the lighting position to deliver current to the igniter contacts when pressed.

24. The actuator assembly a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder; an actuator coupled to the slider body and configured to move the slider body in a first direction and a second direction along a length of the body; a first contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive one of a pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the first contact arm being actuated through contact with the slider body when the slider body is moved in the first direction; a second contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive the other of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second contact arm being actuated through contact with the slider body when the slider body is moved in the first direction; a biasing mechanism that engages with the slider body and biases the slider body in the second direction; Equipped with Actuation of the first and second contact arms moves the igniter contacts from a first position to a second position; 20. The aerosol delivery device of claim 19.

25. and an actuator assembly coupled to the holder and configured to move the cartridge between a loading position, a writing position, and an ejection position, the actuator assembly comprising: a slider body slidably disposed within the body of the holder and defining a receptacle configured to at least partially receive a removable cartridge, the slider body configured to slide in a first direction and a second direction along a length of the body; an actuator coupled to the slider body and configured to move the actuator assembly between a load position, a writing position, and an eject position; a spring assembly configured to engage the slider body and bias the actuator assembly to the lighting position; 18. The aerosol delivery device of claim 17, comprising:

26. Further comprising an actuator assembly, the actuator assembly comprising: a first button assembly movably positioned within the holder adjacent a first of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts; a first igniter contact pivotally coupled to the body and adapted to receive the elongated body of the first igniter contact; a first contact arm configured to pivot the first igniter contact from its first position to its second position, the first contact arm being actuated via contact with the first button assembly to pivot the first igniter contact from its first position to its second position; a second button assembly movably disposed within the holder adjacent a second of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second button assembly oriented substantially opposite the first button assembly; a second contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to receive the elongated body of the second igniter contact, the second contact arm being actuated via contact with the second button assembly to pivot the second igniter contact from its first position to its second position; 18. The aerosol delivery device of claim 17, comprising:

27. 27. The aerosol delivery device of claim 26, wherein actuation of the first and second button assemblies delivers electrical energy to the ignitable heat source.

28. The actuator assembly a first button assembly movably positioned within the holder adjacent a first of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts; a second button assembly movably disposed within the holder adjacent to a second of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second button assembly oriented substantially opposite the first button assembly; Equipped with Actuation of the first and second button assemblies moves the first and second actuable igniter contacts from their first positions to their second positions; 20. The aerosol delivery device of claim 19.

29. a first contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to pivotally couple the first igniter contact to the body; a second contact arm pivotally coupled to the body and configured to pivotally couple the second igniter contact to the body; Further provided with the first and second button assemblies contact the first and second contact arms, respectively, such that actuation of the first and second button assemblies rotates the first and second igniter contacts to their second positions; 29. The aerosol delivery device of claim 28.

30. 1. An aerosol delivery device comprising:

1. A holder comprising upper and lower body portions, each defining a proximal end and a distal end, the lower body portion further defines a receiving chamber disposed at a proximal end thereof and configured to receive a removable cartridge including an ignitable heat source, and a first aerosol passage; an upper body portion having a power source disposed therein and defining a second aerosol passageway therethrough, the upper body portion and the lower body portion being movably coupled to one another; A holder and a mouthpiece configured to engage with a user's mouth; a pair of actuatable igniter contacts movably coupled to the lower body portion and disposed proximate a distal end of the lower body portion, the pair of actuatable igniter contacts configured to be engageable with an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber and to be movable between a first position spaced from the ignitable heat source and a second position in contact with the ignitable heat source; An aerosol delivery device comprising:

31. 31. The aerosol delivery device of claim 30, further comprising an actuator assembly coupled to the lower body portion and configured to move the actuatable igniter contact between the first position and the second position.

32. 31. The aerosol delivery device of claim 30, wherein the actuatable igniter contact is in electrical communication with a power source.

33. The actuator assembly a first button assembly movably positioned within the lower body portion adjacent a first of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts; a second button assembly movably disposed within the lower body portion adjacent a second of the pair of actuatable igniter contacts, the second button assembly being oriented in a direction substantially opposite the first button assembly; Equipped with Actuation of the first and second button assemblies moves the first and second actuable igniter contacts from their first positions to their second positions; 31. The aerosol delivery device of claim 30.

34. 34. The aerosol delivery device of claim 33, wherein each of the first and second button assemblies is coupled to the holder via a biasing mechanism configured to maintain the first and second button assemblies in a neutral position.

35. 31. The aerosol delivery device of claim 30, further comprising an indicator configured to indicate a status of the device.

36. 1. An aerosol delivery device comprising: a holder comprising a body defining a proximal end and a distal end, the body further defining a receiving chamber configured to receive a removable cartridge comprising an ignitable heat source, and a first passageway extending at least partially therethrough; a removable mouthpiece assembly configured to engage the proximal end of the holder, the mouthpiece assembly defined by a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end and defining a second passageway extending therethrough, the first end configured to engage a user's mouth, the second end configured to sealingly engage with and removably secure the removable cartridge therein, the second end positionable within the first passageway of the body to position at least a portion of the cartridge within the receiving chamber; a power supply disposed within the main body; a pair of actuatable igniter contacts disposed proximate the distal end of the body and configured to be engaged with an ignitable heat source when the removable cartridge is secured within the receiving chamber, the pair of actuatable igniter contacts being movably coupled to the holder and movable between a first position spaced apart from the ignitable heat source and a second position in contact with the ignitable heat source; An aerosol delivery device comprising:

37. 37. The aerosol delivery device of claim 36, further comprising a first biasing mechanism engaged with the igniter contact and configured to bias the igniter contact to the first position.

38. 38. The aerosol delivery device of claim 37, wherein each of the actuatable igniter contacts comprises an elongate body and a contact portion disposed at a distal end thereof, the elongate body being rotatably coupled to an end cap disposed within the distal end of the holder, and the contact portions being rotatable toward each other to a second position.

39. 38. The aerosol delivery device of claim 37, further comprising an actuator assembly disposed within the holder and configured to actuate the igniter contact between a first position and a second position.

40. The actuator assembly a solenoid in electrical communication with a power source; a collar engageable with the proximal end of each of the solenoid and the elongated body of the igniter contact, the collar configured to advance into contact with the elongated body when the solenoid is energized to rotate the igniter contact to the second position; 40. The aerosol delivery device of claim 39, comprising:

41. 41. The aerosol delivery device of claim 40, wherein the collar is configured to retract from the elongate body when the solenoid is de-energized so that the igniter contact returns to the first position.

42. a printed circuit board disposed within the holder and in electrical communication with the igniter contacts; a switch in electrical communication with the power source and the printed circuit board and configured to electrically couple the power source to the igniter contacts; 41. The aerosol delivery device of claim 40, further comprising:

43. 43. The aerosol delivery device of claim 42, wherein the switch is also configured to electrically couple a power source to the solenoid.

44. The removable mouthpiece assembly a first portion including an elongate body defined by a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end, the first portion defining at least a portion of the second passage; a second portion defined by a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end and defining a first aerosol passageway therethrough, the second portion having a first end configured to engage a user's mouth and a second end partially disposed within the second passageway of the first portion of the mouthpiece assembly adjacent the first end of the first portion; a slider body defined by a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end and defining a second aerosol passageway therethrough, the slider body being slidably disposed within the first portion of the mouthpiece assembly, the first end of the slider body being coupled to the second end of the second portion of the mouthpiece assembly, and the second end of the slider body being configured to engage a removable cartridge; an inner tubular body defining a receptacle defined by a first end and a longitudinally opposed second end and including a second biasing mechanism disposed therein, the receptacle configured to at least partially receive a slider body, the slider body being slidably coupled to the inner tubular body, the second end of the inner tubular body configured to engage a first portion of the mouthpiece proximate the second end of the first portion, the second biasing mechanism configured to maintain the slider body in a loaded configuration; an outlet guide coupled to the second end of the first portion of the mouthpiece and partially received within the second end of the inner tubular body, the outlet guide defining a cavity configured to sealingly engage the removable cartridge to removably secure the removable cartridge therein; 37. The aerosol delivery device of claim 36, comprising:

45. The holder is an inner housing disposed within the body of the holder and defining one or more receptacles therein, the inner housing having a proximal end coupled to the proximal end of the holder and defining a first opening therethrough; an outer tubular body disposed within a first of the receptacles, the outer tubular body defining at least a portion of the first passageway and configured to slidably receive the mouthpiece assembly therein; an end cap coupled to a distal end of the holder and defining a second opening in communication with the first passage of the outer tubular body, the end cap configured to secure at least one of the inner housing or the outer tubular body within the holder; 45. The aerosol delivery device of claim 44, further comprising:

46. 46. ​​The aerosol delivery device of claim 45, wherein the holder comprises a retention mechanism configured to movably couple the mouthpiece assembly to the holder.

47. 46. ​​The aerosol delivery device of claim 45, wherein the end cap further comprises a standoff extending into the inner housing, the standoff partially defining the receiving chamber and configured to pivotally engage with the actuatable igniter contact.

48. 43. The aerosol delivery device of claim 42, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a charging port, and the printed circuit board is oriented within the inner housing so that the charging port is positioned through a side wall of the holder.

49. 45. The aerosol delivery device of claim 44, wherein the second end of the slider body comprises a stem configured to engage and eject the removable cartridge upon application of force against the second portion of the mouthpiece.

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