Aerosol delivery device

Abstract

An aerosol delivery device for generating an aerosol from an article containing an aerosol-generating material is provided. The device includes a device body, a heating system for heating the article, and a positioning element protruding from the device body. The positioning element has an exterior surface. The exterior surface includes a first surface area with a first roughness and a second surface area with a second roughness greater than the first roughness. The positioning element is configured to be received within the article such that the first surface area and the second surface area contact an interior surface of the article. Also provided are an aerosol delivery system including the aerosol delivery device and an article containing an aerosol-generating material, and a method of using the aerosol delivery system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol delivery device for generating an aerosol from a removable aerosol article, and to an aerosol delivery system including the aerosol delivery device and an aerosol-producing article, and methods of using the same.

[0002] background

[0003] Smoking articles, such as cigarettes and cigars, burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating but not burning a material. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

[0004] overview

[0005] According to one aspect, an aerosol-providing device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising an aerosol-generating material is provided, the device comprising: a device body; a heating system for heating the article; and a positioning element having an outer surface comprising a first surface area having a first surface roughness and a second surface area having a second surface roughness greater than the first surface roughness, the positioning element being configured to be received within the article such that the first surface area and the second surface area contact an interior surface of the article.

[0006] Optionally, the positioning element protrudes from the device body.

[0007] Optionally, the second surface area is configured to frictionally retain the article on the locator element.

[0008] Optionally, the locator element comprises a free end. Optionally, the second surface area is spaced from the free end. Optionally, the first surface area extends from the free end.

[0009] Optionally, the second surface area provides an anchor for securing an item.

[0010] Optionally, the first surface area and the second surface area are disposed along a length of the locator element. Optionally, the second surface area is closer to the device body than the first surface area.

[0011] Optionally, the locator element comprises a base end. Optionally, the second surface area extends from the base end.

[0012] Optionally, the second surface area is spaced from the base end.

[0013] Optionally, the second surface area extends over a small portion of the axial length of the locator element. Optionally, the second surface area extends over less than 50% of the axial length of the locator element. Optionally, the second surface area extends over less than 25% of the axial length of the locator element.

[0014] Optionally, the first surface area extends over a majority of the axial length of the locator element. Optionally, the first area extends over more than 50% of the axial length of the locator element. Optionally, the first surface area extends over more than 75% of the axial length of the locator element.

[0015] Optionally, at least one of the first surface area and the second surface area comprises a surface roughness that varies along the length of the locator element.

[0016] Optionally, the second surface area is a band extending circumferentially around the locator element.

[0017] Optionally, at least a portion of the outer surface of the locator element is tapered.

[0018] Optionally, the second surface area is provided on the tapered portion.

[0019] Optionally, the first surface area is arranged between the second surface area and the body.

[0020] Optionally, the tapered portion is at a base end of the locator element.

[0021] Optionally, the positioning element comprises a heater heatable by the heating system.

[0022] Optionally, the aerosol delivery device comprises a heater.

[0023] Optionally, the heater is a pin heater.Optionally, the heater is a blade heater.

[0024] Optionally, the heater comprises a heating zone along at least a portion of the length of the heater.

[0025] Optionally, the heating zone is one of a plurality of heating zones spaced apart along the length of the heater.

[0026] Optionally, the multiple heating zones are independently heatable.

[0027] Optionally, the first surface area and the second surface area are separate from the heating area.

[0028] Optionally, the aerosol-dispensing device comprises a support member comprising a first surface area and a second surface area, and the heater is on the support member.

[0029] Optionally, the device body comprises a housing that surrounds the locator element and is configured to receive the item.

[0030] Optionally, the first surface area and the second surface area are provided on a unitary component.

[0031] Optionally, the locator element comprises a protruding element and a retaining member. Optionally, the retaining member at least partially surrounds the protruding element. Optionally, the second surface area is provided on the retaining member.

[0032] Optionally, the retaining member is a ring or a sleeve.

[0033] Optionally, the first surface area has an absolute roughness coefficient of 0.1 to 10 microns. Optionally, the first surface area has an absolute roughness coefficient of 0.1 to 1 micron. Optionally, the first surface area has an absolute roughness coefficient of 0.5 microns.

[0034] Optionally, the first surface area is formed from a steel alloy.

[0035] Optionally, the second surface area has an absolute roughness coefficient of 10 to 100 microns. Optionally, the second surface area has an absolute roughness coefficient of 50 microns. Optionally, the second surface area includes a weld. Optionally, the second surface area comprises a rotation feature.

[0036] Optionally, the locator element is a pin.Optionally, the locator element is a blade.

[0037] Optionally, the positioning element comprises a coating.

[0038] Optionally, the first surface area comprises a coating that provides a first surface roughness.

[0039] Optionally, the second surface section does not include a coating.

[0040] Optionally, the coating is a low friction coating relative to the surface roughness of the positioning element.

[0041] Optionally, the coating comprises polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0042] Optionally, the second surface area comprises a coating that provides a second surface roughness.

[0043] Optionally, the coating is a high friction coating relative to the surface roughness of the positioning element.

[0044] Optionally, the first surface area does not include a coating.

[0045] According to one aspect, an aerosol-providing device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising an aerosol-generating material is provided, the device comprising: a device body; a heating system for heating the article; and a positioning element having an outer surface comprising a first surface area with a coating that provides a first surface roughness and a second surface area without the coating that provides a second surface roughness that is greater than the first surface roughness, the positioning element being configured to be received within the article such that the first surface area and the second surface area contact an interior surface of the article.

[0046] Optionally, the coating comprises polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0047] According to one aspect, an aerosol delivery system is provided, comprising the aerosol delivery device of any aspect and an article containing an aerosol-generating material, the article having a cavity defined by an interior surface, the positioning element being received within the cavity such that the outer surface of the positioning element contacts the interior surface of the article.

[0048] Optionally, the article comprises a support.

[0049] Optionally, the aerosol-forming material comprises a gel composition. Optionally, the gel composition is provided on a support. Optionally, the support is a substrate.

[0050] Optionally, the substrate comprises an aerosol-forming material.

[0051] Optionally, the support comprises aerosol-forming material that is crimped and collected.

[0052] Optionally, the support comprises longitudinal strips.

[0053] Optionally, the aerosol-forming material comprises a plant material or extract.Optionally, the aerosol-forming material comprises a tobacco material or extract.

[0054] The aerosol delivery device can include any of the optional features described above.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of using the aerosol delivery system of the previous aspect, the method including the steps of receiving an article in a positioning element so that the article contacts a first surface area, and moving the article along the positioning element and thereafter contacting the article with a second surface area.

[0056] The aerosol delivery system can have any of the features described above. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0057] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery system with an aerosol delivery device inserted into an aerosol delivery article. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery system of FIG. 1, showing the aerosol product separated from the aerosol delivery device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows another aerosol delivery device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows another aerosol delivery device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a further aerosol delivery device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a further aerosol delivery device.

[0058] Detailed Description

[0059] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming material" refers to a material that can generate an aerosol when, for example, heated, irradiated, or energized in any other manner. Aerosol-forming materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavoring agents. Aerosol-forming materials may include any plant-based material, such as tobacco-containing materials, including one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-forming materials may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. Aerosol-forming materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. Aerosol-forming materials may be, for example, a combination or blend of materials. Aerosol-forming materials are also known as "smokable substances."

[0060] The aerosol-forming material may include a binder and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an active agent and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-forming material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material is substantially free of plant material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0061] The aerosol-generating material may include or be an "amorphous solid." The amorphous solid may be a "monolithic solid." In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain a fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, about 50%, 60%, or 70% by weight of amorphous solid, up to about 90%, 95%, or 100% by weight of amorphous solid.

[0062] The aerosol-forming material may include an aerosol-forming film. The aerosol-forming film may comprise or be a sheet, optionally shredded to form a shredded sheet. The aerosol-forming sheet or shredded sheet may be substantially tobacco-free.

[0063] According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol delivery system is one in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components thereof) of the aerosol delivery system are not combusted or burned to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0064] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol delivery system.

[0065] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an e-cigarette, also known as an e-cigarette device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0066] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0067] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-forming materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol-forming materials may be, for example, in solid, liquid, or gel form and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-forming material and a solid aerosol-forming material. The solid aerosol-forming material may comprise, for example, a tobacco or non-tobacco product.

[0068] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol delivery system can include a non-combustible aerosol delivery device and a consumable item for use with the non-combustible aerosol delivery device.

[0069] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables, which include an aerosol-generating material and are configured for use with a non-flammable aerosol-delivery device. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

[0070] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol delivery system, such as a non-combustible aerosol delivery device, can include a power source and a controller. The power source can be, for example, an electrical source or a heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat-generating power source includes a carbon substrate that is energized to deliver power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or a heat transfer material proximate the heat-generating power source.

[0071] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system can include an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0072] In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non-combustible aerosol-delivery device can include an aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage region, an aerosol-generating material transport component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating region, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0073] The aerosol-delivery device can accept an article comprising an aerosol-generating material for heating. An "article" in this context is a component that includes or contains the aerosol-generating material when used, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material and optionally other components when used. A user can insert the article into or onto the aerosol-delivery device before it is heated to generate an aerosol, which the user then inhales. The article can be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size configured to be placed into or onto a heater of a device sized to receive the article.

[0074] 1 and 2 show an embodiment of an aerosol delivery system 100. System 100 includes an aerosol delivery device 101 for generating an aerosol from a removable aerosol product article 110, and removable aerosol product article 110 containing an aerosol-generating material. Device 101 can be used to heat article 110 to generate an aerosol or other inhalable material that can be inhaled by a user of device 101.

[0075] In an embodiment, article 110 is in the form of a rod of aerosol-forming material. In an embodiment, article 110 comprises a support. In an embodiment, the support is a substrate. In an embodiment, the support comprises the aerosol-forming material.

[0076] The aerosol-forming material may be crimped and collected aerosol-forming material. In embodiments, the aerosol-forming material is in the form of a longitudinal strip. In embodiments, the aerosol-forming material comprises a plant material or extract. In embodiments, the aerosol-forming material comprises a tobacco material or extract.

[0077] Device 101 includes a device body 104. Device body 104 includes a housing 103 that surrounds and houses various components of device 101. Housing 103 is elongated. Device body 104 may include a chassis and other components that form part of device 101.

[0078] A positioning element 140 extends from the housing 103. The positioning element 140 is configured to be received within the aerosol product article 110. The positioning element 140 protrudes from the device body 104. The device body 104 forms a base from which the positioning element 140 protrudes.

[0079] The device 101 defines a longitudinal axis 102 along which the aerosol product article 110 can extend when positioned on the positioning element 140. The positioning element 140 is aligned on the longitudinal axis 102. The end 109 of the positioning element 140 distal from the device housing 103 is known as the proximal end (or oral end) 109 of the device 101, as it is closest to the user's mouth during use. The end 109 of the positioning element 140 defines the axial extent of the device 101 along the longitudinal axis 102. Thus, the end 109 of the positioning element 140 is a free end.

[0080] The positioning element 140 defines an outer surface 142. In this example, the positioning element 140 is sized and shaped to be received within the elongated core 112 of the aerosol product article 110. The elongated core 112 of the aerosol product article 110 defines a cavity for receiving the positioning element 140. The cavity is open at the insertion end. The ends of the cavity are closed. The elongated core 112 of the aerosol product article 110 defines an inner surface 114. In an embodiment, the inner surface 114 comprises a paper-based material. In an embodiment, the inner surface 114 comprises a paper / foil laminate. When the positioning element 140 is received within the elongated core 112 of the article 110, the outer surface 142 of the positioning element 140 abuts the inner surface 114 of the elongated core 112 of the article 110. In an example, the article 110 does not include an elongated core 112. In such embodiments, article 110 is a solid body, i.e., article 110 does not have a pre-formed bore through which the locator element is received. In such embodiments, locator element 140 is configured to penetrate article 110. In such embodiments, locator element 140 can have a tapered tip.

[0081] The device 101 includes a heater 107. In an embodiment, the heater 107 forms the positioning element 140. In an embodiment, the heater 107 is a pin. That is, in an embodiment, the heater 107 is an elongated member. A pin heater may be cylindrical or have another regular cross-sectional shape whose width in a first direction is substantially the same as its second width in a transverse direction. In an embodiment, the heater 107 is a blade. That is, in an embodiment, the heater 107 is an elongated member whose width in a first direction is greater than its second width in the transverse direction.

[0082] For example, the length of the heater 107 may be 15 mm or more, the width of the heater 107 may be 5 mm or more, and the thickness of the heater 107 may be 3 mm or less.

[0083] In embodiments, the blade or pin heater has a tapered or sharpened end, which can help the heater 107 press into the solid mass of aerosol-generating material. In embodiments, the heater 107 is a resistive pin or blade heater.

[0084] The heater 107 includes a plurality of heating zones 136. In one embodiment, the heating zones 136 are arranged within the positioning element 140. The heating zones 136 are spaced apart along the length of the positioning element 140. In this embodiment, the heating zones 136 are uniformly distributed along the length of the positioning element 140. In another embodiment, the heating zones 136 are non-uniformly distributed along the length of the positioning element 140. The heating zones 136 are independently heatable. The heating zones may be operable to provide progressive heating of the aerosol-generating material. For example, the heating zones may be operable to heat a distal portion of the aerosol-generating material before or more quickly than a proximal portion of the aerosol-generating material. Alternatively, the heating zones may be operable to heat a proximal portion of the aerosol-generating material before or more quickly than a distal portion of the aerosol-generating material. This may provide an improved user experience, for example, by avoiding overheating of a portion of the aerosol-generating material, which may result in an undesirable taste in the generated aerosol.

[0085] Heater 107 may include various components for heating the aerosol-forming material of aerosol product article 110 via, for example, induction or resistive heating processes.

[0086] Resistive heating utilizes the Joule heating effect that results from the electrical resistance of a material in response to the application of an electric current directly therethrough.

[0087] Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conductive heating element (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly can include an induction element, e.g., one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a variable current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The varying current in the induction element generates a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor appropriately positioned relative to the induction element, generating eddy currents inside the susceptor.

[0088] The susceptor has an electrical resistance to eddy currents, and the flow of eddy currents across this resistance causes the susceptor to heat due to Joule heating. If the susceptor comprises a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat can also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e., by the changing orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the fluctuating magnetic field. In induction heating, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for more rapid heating than, for example, heating by conduction. Furthermore, no physical contact is required between the induction element and the susceptor, allowing for greater flexibility in design and application.

[0089] The susceptor may be included in the positioning element 140, for example, positioned on the outer surface 142 of the positioning element 140. The susceptor can define at least a portion of the positioning element 140. The susceptor can define the entire positioning element 140. In other examples, the susceptor may be included in the aerosol product article 110, for example, positioned on a surface of the elongated core 112, such that when the aerosol product article 110 is positioned on the device 101, the susceptor directly contacts the positioning element 140.

[0090] The heater 107 can include a magnetic field generator configured to generate one or more varying magnetic fields that penetrate the susceptor to cause heating within the susceptor. The magnetic field generator includes an inductor coil arrangement. The inductor coil arrangement includes an inductor coil that acts as an inductor element. The inductor coil is a helical coil, although other arrangements are contemplated. In an embodiment, the inductor coil arrangement includes two or more inductor coils. In an embodiment, the two or more inductor coils may be arranged adjacent to one another and coaxially aligned along the axis.

[0091] In some embodiments, during use, the induction coil is configured to heat the susceptor to a temperature of about 200°C to about 350°C, for example, about 240°C to about 300°C, or about 250°C to about 280°C.

[0092] The inductor coil may be a helical coil comprising a conductive material such as copper. The coil is formed from a wire, such as Litz wire, wound helically around a support member. In embodiments, the support member is omitted. The support member is tubular. The coil defines a generally tubular shape. The inductor coil has a generally circular profile. In other embodiments, the inductor coil can have a different shape, such as a generally square, rectangular, or oval shape. The width of the coil can increase or decrease along its length.

[0093] Other types of inductor coils, such as flat spiral coils, may also be used. A helical coil can be used to define a long inductor zone, providing a long length of susceptor accommodated within the long inductor zone. This maximizes the length of the susceptor exposed to the varying magnetic field. Providing an enclosed inductor zone with a helical coil arrangement can help concentrate the magnetic field flux.

[0094] Litz wire comprises multiple individual wires that are individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wire is designed to reduce skin effect losses in the conductor. Other wire types, such as solid, can also be used. The configuration of the helical inductor coil may vary along its axial length. For example, the or each inductor coil can have substantially the same or different values ​​of inductance, axial length, radius, pitch, number of turns, etc.

[0095] The device 101 may include a user-operable control element, such as a button or switch 106, which, for example, when pressed, operates the device 101. For example, a user may activate the device 101 by pressing the switch 106.

[0096] In use, a user places the aerosol production article 110 over the positioning element 140, activates a user control to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating material within the aerosol production article 110, and inhales the aerosol generated within the aerosol production article 110. This causes the aerosol to flow through the aerosol production article 110 along one or more flow paths 120 toward the proximal end 109 of the device 101.

[0097] The end of device housing 103 distal from positioning element 140 is known as the distal end 108 of device 101 because it is the end farthest from the user's mouth in use. When a user inhales the aerosol generated within the device, the aerosol flows in a direction toward the proximal end of device 101. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of device 101 are described by reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to one another in the proximal-distal direction along axis 102.

[0098] Device 101 may further include a controller (control circuitry) and a power source housed within device housing 103. Heater 107 is configured to heat the aerosol-forming material of aerosol-production article 110 when positioned over positioning element 140 so as to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming material. The power source provides power to heater 107, which converts the provided electrical energy into thermal energy for heating the aerosol-forming material.

[0099] The power source may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries.

[0100] The power source may be electrically coupled to the heater 107 to provide power when needed to heat the aerosol-generating material of the aerosol product article 110 under the control of the controller. The control circuitry may be configured to activate and deactivate the heater 107 based on a user operating a control element. For example, the controller may activate the heater 107 in response to a user operating the switch 106.

[0101] In this example, article 110 is generally cylindrical with a generally cylindrical elongated core 112, and locator element 140 is correspondingly generally cylindrical in shape, although other shapes may also be suitable.

[0102] The aerosol product article 110 can include one or more conduits that form part of the flow path 120. In use, the distal end of the aerosol product article 110 can be positioned proximate to or in engagement with the base (or distal end) of the positioning element 140. Air can pass through the one or more conduits that form part of the flow path 120 into the aerosol product article 110 and flow through the article 110 toward the proximal end of the device 101.

[0103] The outer surface 142 of the positioning element 140 comprises a first surface area 144 having a first roughness and a second surface area 146 having a second roughness greater than the first roughness. The second surface area 146 has a greater coefficient of friction with the inner surface 114 than the first surface area 144. The inner surface 114 of the elongated core 112 of the article 110 can slide over the first surface area 144 more easily than it can slide over the second surface area 146.

[0104] According to one example, first surface area 144 is a smooth surface area and second surface area 146 is textured. In one example, one or both of first surface area 144 and second surface area 146 have a roughness that varies along the length of positioning element 140. In one embodiment, exterior surface 142 has a roughness that varies continuously along the length of positioning element 140.

[0105] In an embodiment, the first surface area 144 has an absolute roughness coefficient of 0.1 to 1 micron. In an embodiment, the first surface area 144 has an absolute roughness coefficient of 0.5 microns.

[0106] In an embodiment, the first surface area 144 is formed from a steel alloy.

[0107] In an embodiment, the positioning element 140 includes a coating. The first surface area 144 includes a coating that provides a first surface roughness. The second surface area does not include a coating. The coating provides a relatively low surface roughness on the positioning element 140. The relatively low surface roughness of the positioning element 140 reduces friction between the positioning element 140 and the article 110, for example, between the positioning element 140 and the substrate of the article 110. This can facilitate insertion and removal of the positioning element 140 into the substrate. The reduced friction between the positioning element 140 and the article 110 can prevent or reduce displacement of aerosol-generating material from the article 110 during removal of the positioning element 140 from the article 110. This can improve sanitation during use of the aerosol delivery system 100.

[0108] In an embodiment, the first surface region 144 comprises a low-friction coating. The low-friction coating can provide a relatively low first roughness. The coating can comprise polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The coating can reduce friction between the positioning element and the article 110. The second surface region 146 provides an anchor to help retain the article.

[0109] In an embodiment, the second surface area includes a coating that provides the second surface roughness, and the first surface area does not include a coating, and the coating in such an apparatus is a high-friction coating relative to the surface roughness of the positioning element.

[0110] In an embodiment, the second surface area has an absolute roughness factor of 10 to 100 microns. In an embodiment, the second surface area has an absolute roughness factor of 50 microns.

[0111] In an embodiment, the second surface area comprises a weld.In an embodiment, the second surface area comprises a rotation feature.

[0112] Positioning element 140 is configured to be received within article 110 such that first surface area 144 and second surface area 146 contact interior surface 114 of article 110. In embodiments in which heating zone 136 is arranged within positioning element 140, heat can therefore be efficiently transferred to article 110.

[0113] Second surface area 146 is configured to hold article 110 on locator element 140. Article 110 forms a friction fit with second surface area 146 when locator element 140 is fully received within article 110.

[0114] Positioning element 140 may be considered fully received within article 110 when positioning element 140 cannot be moved further within article 110. In some embodiments, when positioning element 140 is fully received within article 110, proximal end 109 of device 101 may contact the end of elongate core 112 of article 110. In some embodiments, the proximal end of article 110 may abut device body 104 when positioning element 140 is fully received within article 110.

[0115] When the locator element 140 is fully received within the article 110, the article 110 is securely held on the locator element 140 by frictional engagement with the second surface area 146. It will be appreciated that while it is still possible to remove the article 110 from the locator element 140, the frictional engagement between the article 110 and the second surface area 146 aids in retention. The second surface area 146 provides resistance to axial movement of the article 110 along the locator element 140. Thus, the article 110 is less likely to be accidentally removed from the locator element 140 during use. For example, the second surface area 146 provides greater resistance to removal of the article 110 than the weight of the article 110. Thus, the article 110 cannot fall off the locator element 140 due to gravity.

[0116] Once the resistance provided by second surface area 146 is overcome, article 110 slides more easily along first surface area 144 for easy removal.

[0117] First surface area 144 and second surface area 146 are disposed along the length of positioning element 140. Second surface area 146 is closer to device body 104 than first surface area 144. Second surface area 146 is at a distal end 109 of positioning element 140. Second surface area 146 can help secure article 110 in place relative to positioning element 140. First surface area 144 is at a proximal end 109 of positioning element 140. Second surface area 146 is adjacent to device body 104.

[0118] In embodiments, inner surface 114 includes a retention feature (not shown). The retention feature may be, for example, an embossed portion of inner surface 114 or a crimp on inner surface 114. The retention feature is positioned to contact second surface area 146 when article 110 is retained on locator element 140. The retention feature increases the frictional interaction between second surface area 146 and inner surface 114 of article 110.

[0119] The second surface area 146 is between the first surface area 144 and the device body 104. When the positioning element 140 is inserted into the elongated core 112 of the article 110, the first surface area 144 contacts the interior surface 114 of the article 110 before the second surface area 146. Thus, the article 110 can slide axially along the positioning element 140 before contacting the second surface area 146. This allows the article 110 to easily move along the positioning element 140 before engaging the second surface area 146. It also reduces the chance that the interior surface 114 of the article 110 will be damaged by contact with the second surface area 146. Such damage could lead to the removal of aerosol-generating material, potentially reducing the hygiene of the aerosol delivery system 100 during use.

[0120] First surface area 144 extends around the periphery of locator element 140. In some embodiments, first surface area 144 and / or second surface area 146 do not extend the entire circumference of locator element 140. For example, second surface area 146 may form axial striations on locator element 140 or may comprise multiple discrete regions. In such embodiments, second surface area 146 may include the regions between the striations of second surface area 146. Thus, second surface area 146 may comprise portions with different roughnesses. At least a first portion may have the same or similar roughness as the first surface area, and a second portion has a greater roughness. A proximal portion of locator element 140 is free, or at least substantially free, from second surface area 146. Second surface area 146 extends around the periphery of locator element 140. The first surface area 144 and the second surface area 146 have the same diameter, which simplifies manufacturing of the locator element. The first surface area 144 and the second surface area 146 define an axial portion of the locator element 140. Together, the first surface area 144 and the second surface area 146 cover the entire axial extent of the locator element 140. Together, the first surface area 144 and the second surface area 146 define the entire outer surface 142 of the locator element 140. In other embodiments, the outer surface 142 may include additional surface areas.

[0121] First surface area 144 extends along a majority of the axial extent of locator element 140. In embodiments, first surface area extends through more than half, more than two-thirds, more than three-quarters, or more than 85% of the axial extent of locator element 140.

[0122] First surface area 144 and second surface area 146 are provided as part of one piece. That is, first surface area 144 and second surface area 146 are defined by a portion of the surface of positioning element 140, and positioning element 140 is a single component. In an embodiment, heating zone 136 is disposed within positioning element 140. In an embodiment, heating zone 136 is part of positioning element 140.

[0123] As used herein, integral part refers to a component that cannot be separated into two or more parts after assembly. Integrally formed refers to two or more features that are formed into a component during the manufacture of the component.

[0124] Figure 3 shows another embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 101. The aerosol delivery device 101 is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2, and like reference numerals are used. The aerosol delivery device 101 of Figure 3 is suitable for use with an article 110.

[0125] In the aerosol-dispensing device of Figure 3, the positioning element 140 is a heater. The heater is a susceptor. The first surface area 144 and the second surface area 146 are provided on the surface of the susceptor. In an embodiment, the heater is a resistive heater. In an embodiment, the positioning element 140 includes a support, and the heater is provided on the support. The first surface area 144 and / or the second surface area 146 can be provided on the heater or on the support.

[0126] Figure 4 shows another embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 101. The aerosol delivery device 101 is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2, and like reference numerals are used. The aerosol delivery device 101 of Figure 4 is suitable for use with an article 110.

[0127] The positioning element 140 of the aerosol delivery device 101 of Figure 4 includes a protruding element 151 and a retaining member 152. The retaining member 152 at least partially surrounds the protruding element 151. The second surface segment 146 is provided on the retaining member 152.

[0128] Retaining member 152 has an annular cross-section. In some embodiments, retaining member 152 is a ring or a sleeve. Retaining member 152 is bonded to protruding element 151 to prevent retaining member 152 from moving along axial direction 102 relative to protruding element 151 when locator element 140 is withdrawn from article 110. In some embodiments, retaining member 152 is coupled to protruding element 151 by a friction fit, adhesive, or mechanical fastening such as a bayonet or screw mechanism.

[0129] In some embodiments, the exterior surface of the retaining member 152 is raised from the exterior surface of the protruding elements 151. In some embodiments, the inner core 112 of the article 110 is contoured to accommodate the retaining member 152. In some embodiments, the retaining member 152 is flush with the exterior surface of the protruding elements 151.

[0130] Figure 5 shows another embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 101. The aerosol delivery device 101 is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2, and like reference numerals are used. The aerosol delivery device 101 of Figure 5 is suitable for use with an article 110.

[0131] In the aerosol delivery device 101 of FIG. 5 , the housing 104 further includes a housing portion 160 extending from the device body 104. The housing portion 160 surrounds the positioning element 140. The housing portion 160 overlaps the positioning element 140. The housing portion 160 is configured to receive the article 110. The housing portion 160 defines a dimensioned heating zone 162 configured to receive the article 110 to be heated. In this embodiment, the article 110 is generally cylindrical, and the heating zone 162 is correspondingly generally cylindrical in shape. However, other shapes are possible. The housing portion 160 is a cylindrical member. The housing portion 160 is concentric with the positioning element 140. The heating zone 162 is defined by an inner surface of the housing portion 160. The housing portion 160 extends substantially coaxially along and around the longitudinal axis 102 of the device 101. However, other shapes are possible. Housing portion 160 (and heating zone 162) is open at its proximal end so that an item 110 inserted into an opening in housing portion 160 is received within heating zone 162. Housing portion 160 is closed at its distal end by device body 104.

[0132] Housing portion 160 reduces the likelihood of a user unintentionally contacting the positioning element after use, in cases where the positioning element is hot and could burn the user if touched.

[0133] In an embodiment, the heater 107 is disposed within the housing portion 160. In this embodiment, the heater 107 protrudes from the device body 104. In an embodiment, the heating section 136 is disposed within the housing. In an embodiment, the heater 107 comprises a heating element heatable by penetration of a varying magnetic field and an induction coil. The heating element can be disposed within the housing portion 160. The heating element can be a tubular member. The item 110 can be receivable within the heating element.

[0134] Figure 6 shows another embodiment of an aerosol delivery device 101. The aerosol delivery device 101 is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2, and like reference numerals are used. The aerosol delivery device 101 of Figure 6 is suitable for use with an article 110.

[0135] A portion of the exterior surface 142 of the locator element 140 is tapered. In some embodiments, the entire exterior surface 142 of the locator element 140 is tapered.

[0136] Locator element 140 includes a peripheral wall 150. Peripheral wall 150 extends around locator element 140. Peripheral wall 150 extends between the distal end and the proximal end 109 of the locator element. Peripheral wall 150 defines the longitudinal sides of locator element 140. Peripheral wall 150 forms the sidewalls or faces of locator element 150. An outer surface 142 of locator element 140 is defined by peripheral wall 150. Peripheral wall 150 is elongated, with a substantial portion of peripheral wall 150 tapering in the longitudinal direction of locator element 140. A longitudinal length of peripheral wall 150 is between 10 mm and 30 mm. Optionally, the length of peripheral wall 150 is between 15 mm and 25 mm.

[0137] Peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 30 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of locator element 140. Optionally, peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 15 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of locator element 140. Optionally, peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 15 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of locator element 140. Optionally, peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of locator element 140. In embodiments, peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle greater than 5 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of locator element 140 to form a taper. Optionally, peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle greater than 10 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of locator element 140 to form a taper.

[0138] Providing a tapered member can facilitate gradual heating of article 110. It will be appreciated that the heating rate of heating zone 136 and the area of ​​heating zone 136 exposed to aerosol-generating material can decrease longitudinally, thus aiding in the gradual generation of vapor. Heat transfer across the aerosol-generating material of article 110 can be relatively fast at the distal end and relatively slower toward the proximal end.

[0139] In some embodiments, the interior surface 114 of the aerosol production article 110 is tapered. The interior surface 114 tapers from the open end to the closed end. The peripheral wall 150 of the positioning element 140 and the interior surface 114 of the article 110 are complementarily sized to form a contacting fit. The interior surface 114 is configured to intimately contact the positioning element 140 to maximize heat transfer between the positioning element 140 and the article 110. In embodiments where the positioning element configuration is varied, the elongated core 112 of the article 110 is provided with a complementary cavity. The cavity is tapered.

[0140] By providing a tapered arrangement, it is possible to aid in the positioning of the article 110 with the positioning element 140. In a coaxial arrangement with the article 110, the arrangement can be self-centering, thus aiding in alignment during insertion. This can improve contact between the positioning element 140 and the article 110 and maximize heating consistency along the length of the positioning element 140. Providing a tapered profile can aid in the robustness of the positioning element 140.

[0141] In this embodiment, the proximal end 109 of the locator element 140 extends to a tip. The tip is formed by the peripheral wall 150. In some embodiments, the proximal end 109 is blunt. The locator element 140 is conical. The shape of the locator element 140 may vary. In some embodiments, the locator element 140, or at least a portion of the locator element formed by the peripheral wall 150, has a different pyramidal shape. In some embodiments, the locator element 140 is frustoconical. In some embodiments, the locator element 140 is frustoconical. An end surface may be provided on the proximal end 109 of the locator element 140. The end surface extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the locator element 140. In such embodiments, the inner core 112 of the article 110 has a complementary shape.

[0142] Second surface area 146 is provided on peripheral wall 150. Second surface area 146 is provided at a proximal end of peripheral wall 150. First surface area 144 is provided at a distal end of peripheral wall 150. That is, first surface area 144 is adjacent to device body 104. First surface area 144 is disposed between second surface area 146 and device body 104. Elongated core 112 of article 110 is contoured such that, when positioning element 140 is inserted into article 110, inner surface 114 of article 110 contacts first surface area 144 before contacting second surface area 146. When positioning element 140 is fully inserted into article 110, second surface area 146 contacts inner surface 114 of article 110.

[0143] Also disclosed is a method of using the aerosol delivery system 100. This method can be used with any of the aerosol delivery devices 101 of FIGS.

[0144] The method includes receiving the article 110 on the locator element 140 so that the article 110 is in frictional contact with the outer surface 142, and moving the article 110 along the locator element 140. It will be understood that receiving the article 110 on the locator element 140 and inserting the locator element 140 into the article 110 are the same operation.

[0145] Initially, the article 110 contacts the first surface area 144. The article 110 can slide along the first surface area 144 due to the lower roughness of the first surface area 144. The article 110 is moved along the positioning element 140 until the article 110 contacts the second surface area 146. Because the second surface area 146 has a greater roughness than the first surface area 144, there is a greater frictional resistance to sliding the article 110 along the second surface area 146. The article is moved along the positioning element 140 until the positioning element 140 is fully received within the article. Once the positioning element 140 is fully received within the article 110, the second surface area 146 holds the article 110 on the positioning element 140. The second surface area 146 forms a friction fit with the article 110.

[0146] It will be appreciated that while it is still possible to remove article 110 from locator element 140, the frictional engagement between article 110 and second surface area 146 aids in retention. Second surface area 146 provides resistance to axial movement of article 110 along locator element 140. Thus, article 110 is less likely to be accidentally removed from locator element 140 during use. For example, second surface area 146 provides more resistance to removal of article 110 than the weight of article 110. Thus, article 110 cannot fall off locator element 140 due to gravity.

[0147] In some of the above-described embodiments, the heating device is an induction heating device. In other embodiments, other types of heating devices, such as resistance heating, are used. The configuration of the device is generally as described above, and therefore will not be described in detail. In such devices, the heater comprises a resistive heating generator including components for heating the heater via a resistive heating process. In this case, an electric current is applied directly to the resistive heating component, and the resulting current flow in the heating component causes the heating component to heat by Joule heating. The resistive heating component comprises a resistive material configured to generate heat when an appropriate electric current is passed through it, and the heater comprises electrical contacts for supplying the electric current to the resistive material.

[0148] In an embodiment, the heater forms the resistive heating component itself, hi an embodiment, the resistive heating component transfers heat to the heater, for example by conduction.

[0149] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or equivalents thereof, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Various embodiments of the present invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Additionally, the present disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol-delivery device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising an aerosol-forming material, comprising: The device itself, a heating system for heating the article; a positioning element having an exterior surface, the exterior surface having a first surface area with a first surface roughness and a second surface area with a second surface roughness greater than the first surface roughness, the positioning element being configured to be received within the article such that the first surface area and the second surface area contact an interior surface of the article; An aerosol delivery device comprising:

2. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 , wherein the positioning element protrudes from the device body.

3. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second surface area is configured to frictionally retain the item on the positioning element.

4. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the positioning element has a free end and the second surface area is spaced apart from the free end.

5. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the positioning element comprises a base end and the second surface area extends from the base end.

6. The aerosol delivery device of claim 5 , wherein the second surface area is spaced from the base end.

7. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second surface area extends over a small fraction of the axial length of the positioning element.

8. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the first surface area and the second surface area has a surface roughness that varies along the length of the positioning element.

9. 9. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the exterior surface of the locator element is tapered.

10. 10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 9, wherein the second surface area is provided on the tapered portion.

11. The aerosol delivery device of claim 10 , wherein the first surface area is disposed between the second surface area and the body.

12. 12. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 9 to 11 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the tapered portion is at the base end of the locator element.

13. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the positioning element is a heater that can be heated by the heating system.

14. 14. The aerosol delivery device of claim 13, wherein the heater comprises a heating zone along at least a portion of the length of the heater.

15. 15. The aerosol delivery device of claim 14, wherein the heating zone is one of a plurality of independently heatable heating zones.

16. 16. The aerosol delivery device of claim 14 or 15, wherein the first surface area and the second surface area are separate from the heating area.

17. 17. The aerosol delivery device of claim 16, comprising a support member comprising the first surface area and the second surface area, and the heating area is on the support member.

18. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the positioning element comprises a protruding element and a retaining member at least partially surrounding the protruding element, and the second surface area is provided on the retaining member.

19. In the aerosol delivery system, An aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 18; an article comprising an aerosol-generating material, the article comprising a cavity defined by an interior surface, the positioning element being received within the cavity such that the exterior surface of the positioning element contacts the interior surface of the article; and An aerosol delivery system comprising:

20. 20. A method of using the aerosol delivery system of claim 19, comprising: receiving the article on the locator element such that the article contacts the first surface area; moving the article along the locator element and thereafter contacting the second surface area; A method comprising:

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