Aerosol Delivery System

Abstract

An aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system (10). The aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) is formed of an electrically conductive material. An outer surface (102) of the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) defines at least one groove (104).

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] [Field]

[0002] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating material transfer component for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, an article comprising the aerosol-generating material transfer component, and a non-flammable aerosol delivery system comprising the article. [background]

[0003] Non-combustible aerosol delivery systems that generate aerosols for inhalation by a user are known in the art. Such systems typically include an aerosol-generating component capable of converting an aerosolizable material into an aerosol. In some instances, the generated aerosol is a condensation aerosol in which the aerosolizable material is first evaporated and then condensed into an aerosol. In other instances, the generated aerosol is an aerosol resulting from atomization of the aerosolizable material. Such atomization can be induced mechanically, for example, by vibrating the aerosolizable material to form small particles of the material that are entrained in the airflow. Alternatively, such atomization can be induced electrostatically or by other methods, such as using pressure.

[0004] Because such aerosol delivery systems are intended to generate an aerosol that is inhaled by a user, the characteristics of the generated aerosol should be considered. These characteristics can include the size of the aerosol particles, the total amount of aerosol generated, etc.

[0005] Control of these various characteristics is particularly important when the aerosol delivery system is used to simulate a smoking experience, for example, as an e-cigarette or similar product, as users may expect a particular sensory experience to result from use of the system.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol delivery system with improved control of these properties.

[0007] overview

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating material transfer component for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, the aerosol-generating material transfer component being formed from an electrically conductive material, and an outer surface of the aerosol-generating material transfer component defining at least one groove.

[0009] In one embodiment, at least one groove has a depth of at least 0.01 mm.

[0010] In one embodiment, at least one groove has a width of at least 0.01 mm.

[0011] In one embodiment, the at least one groove comprises a plurality of grooves.

[0012] In one aspect, an imaginary flat surface forms a best fit surface through the outer surface.

[0013] In one embodiment, the exterior surface is undulating.

[0014] In one embodiment, the exterior surface is corrugated.

[0015] In one embodiment, the outer surface is bridge-shaped.

[0016] In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material transfer component is formed from a thermally conductive material.

[0017] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one embodiment, the metallic material is a metal. In one embodiment, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one embodiment, the metal alloy is stainless steel. In one embodiment, the stainless steel is stainless steel 316.

[0018] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transport component is porous. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transport component is a mesh.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, the article comprising: an aerosol-generating material transfer component formed of an electrically conductive material, an outer surface of the aerosol-generating material transfer component defining at least one groove; an aerosol-generating component, wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component is positioned to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component, and the at least one groove is configured to reduce the risk of or prevent an electrical short between respective portions of the aerosol-generating component via the aerosol-generating material transfer component; Equipped with.

[0020] In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material transfer component is capable of or is positioned in direct contact with the respective portion of the aerosol-generating component.

[0021] In one embodiment, at least one groove is disposed between sections of the aerosol-generating material transport component that are capable of or disposed in direct contact with each portion of the aerosol-generating component.

[0022] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generation component comprises a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector, each of which may be located at a respective end of the aerosol-generation component.

[0023] In one embodiment (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component), the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol-generating component is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transfer component.

[0024] In one embodiment (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component and portions of the aerosol-generating material transfer component), the percentage reduction (X) from the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol-generating material transfer component to the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transfer component is calculated based on the following formula: X=100*((RAGC-RAGTC) / RAGC) where RAGC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol-generating material transfer component, RAGTC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transfer component, and X is at least 5%.

[0025] In one embodiment (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component), the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transfer component is longer than the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol-generating component.

[0026] In one embodiment (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transport component and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component), the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transport component is tortuous.

[0027] In one aspect, the aerosol-generating component is formed from an electrically conductive material.

[0028] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one embodiment, the metallic material is a metal. In one embodiment, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one embodiment, the metal alloy is stainless steel. In one embodiment, the stainless steel is stainless steel 316.

[0029] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component is substantially planar.

[0030] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises at least one slot. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises a slot. In one embodiment, one or more slots are open. In one embodiment, one or more slots are closed.

[0031] In one aspect, the elongated holes are spaced apart from one another. In one aspect, the elongated holes are spaced apart from one another along the axis of the aerosol-generating component. In one aspect, the elongated holes are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating component. In one aspect, the elongated holes are arranged parallel to one another.

[0032] In one aspect, the aerosol-generating material transfer component is characterized by any of the features of the aerosol-generating material transfer component of the above aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-flammable aerosol delivery system comprising: An article comprising: an aerosol-generating material transport component formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol-generating material transport component defines at least one groove; an aerosol-generating component, wherein the aerosol-generating material transport component is positioned to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component, and wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce or prevent risk of electrical shorting between respective portions of the aerosol-generating component via the aerosol-generating material transport component; and a device for connecting to the article and supplying power to the aerosol-generating component, the device comprising one or more power sources and a controller.

[0034] The article can be characterized according to any feature of the article of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

[0035] The article can be characterized according to any feature of the article of any other aspect of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0036] Various embodiments will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol delivery system according to the present invention. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a side view of an aerosol-generating material transfer component of an aerosol-delivery device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a perspective underside view of the aerosol-generating material transfer component (FIG. 2A). [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C is a side view of the aerosol-generating material transfer component of FIG. 2A positioned in direct contact with the aerosol-generating component. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a side view of an aerosol-generating material transfer component of an aerosol-delivery device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B]FIG. 3B is a perspective underside view of the aerosol-generating material transfer component (FIG. 3A). [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is a side view of the aerosol-generating material transfer component of FIG. 3A positioned in direct contact with the aerosol-generating component. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a side view of an aerosol-generating material transfer component of an aerosol-delivery device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a perspective underside view of the aerosol-generating material transfer component (FIG. 4A). [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is a side view of the aerosol-generating material transfer component of FIG. 4A positioned in direct contact with the aerosol-generating component. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the aerosol-generating components of an aerosol-delivery device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an alternate version of FIG. 2C, showing a different current path through the article.

[0037] Detailed Description

[0038] Aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are discussed / described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be conventionally implemented and are not discussed / described in detail for the sake of brevity. Thus, it will be understood that aspects and features of the articles and systems discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented in accordance with any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0039] As noted above, the present invention relates to, but is not limited to, non-combustion aerosol delivery systems and articles that generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials (also referred to herein as "aerosolizable materials") without combustion of the aerosol-generating materials. Examples of such systems include electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating systems, and hybrid systems (which generate aerosols using a combination of aerosol-generating materials). In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping 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 of this disclosure. 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. In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that generates aerosols using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials in such a hybrid system 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-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material, which may comprise, for example, a tobacco or non-tobacco product.

[0040] Throughout the following description, the terms "e-cigarette" and "electronic cigarette" may be used, however, it is understood that these terms may be used interchangeably with non-combustible aerosol (vapor) delivery systems or devices, as previously described.

[0041] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables for holding aerosol-generating materials, which are configured for use with non-flammable aerosol-delivery devices. These consumables may be referred to as "articles" throughout this disclosure.

[0042] A non-flammable aerosol delivery system typically comprises a device component (also referred to herein as a "device") and a consumable / item component (also referred to herein as an "item"). The device component typically includes a power source and a controller. The power source may typically be an electrical power source, such as a rechargeable battery.

[0043] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system can include a consumable / article, an aerosol generator (which may or may not be within the consumable / article), an aerosol-generation region (which may be within the consumable / article), a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or a region for receiving or engaging an aerosol modifying agent.

[0044] In some examples, consumables / items for use with the non-flammable aerosol delivery system may comprise an aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area (also referred to herein as a reservoir for aerosolizable material), an aerosol-generating material transport component (e.g., a wick such as a pad), an aerosol generator (also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating component), an aerosol-generation area (also referred to herein as an aerosol-generation chamber), a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0045] The systems described herein typically generate an inhalable aerosol by vaporization of an aerosol-generating material, which may comprise one or more active ingredients, one or more flavors, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0046] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavoring agents. In some examples, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an "amorphous solid," which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some examples, 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 examples, the aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, from about 50%, 60%, or 70% amorphous solid by weight, up to about 90%, 95%, or 100% amorphous solid by weight.

[0047] The term "active substance" as used herein may refer to a physiologically active substance, which is a substance intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may be selected from, for example, dietary supplements, nootropics, and psychoactive drugs. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins (e.g., B6 or B12 or C), melatonin, cannabinoids, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or other plants.

[0048] The aerosol-forming material may include one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substance may include one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixtures, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0049] The one or more other functional materials may include one or more pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0050] As used herein, the term "component" is used to refer to a part, section, unit, module, assembly, or the like of an e-cigarette or similar device, incorporating several smaller parts or elements, possibly within an external housing or wall. An e-cigarette may be formed or constructed from one or more such components, which may be removably or separably connectable to one another or may be permanently joined during manufacture to define the entire e-cigarette. The present disclosure is applicable, but is not limited to, to systems comprising two components removably connectable to one another and configured as consumable / item components, for example, capable of holding aerosol-generating material (also referred to herein as a cartridge or cartomizer), and a device / control unit having a battery for providing power to operate the elements for generating vapor from the aerosol-generating material.

[0051] 1 is a highly schematic (not to scale) illustration of an exemplary non-combustible aerosol delivery system, such as an e-cigarette 10. The e-cigarette 10 has a generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by the dashed line, and comprises two main components: a control or power component or section 20 (which may be referred to herein as a device), and a cartridge assembly or section 30 (which may be referred to herein as an "article," "consumable," "cartomizer," or "cartridge") that operates as a vapor-generating component.

[0052] The cartridge assembly 30 includes a storage compartment (also referred to herein as a reservoir) 3 containing aerosolizable material, including (for example) a liquid formulation from which an aerosol containing, for example, nicotine is generated. As an example, the aerosolizable material may contain approximately 1-3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, with the remainder roughly propylene glycol, and possibly other ingredients such as water or flavoring. The storage compartment 3 has the form of a storage tank, a container or receptacle capable of storing the aerosolizable material such that the aerosolizable material moves and flows freely within the tank (if liquid). Alternatively, the storage compartment 3 may contain a quantity of absorbent material, such as cotton wadding or glass fiber, that holds the aerosolizable material within its porous structure. The storage compartment 3 may be sealed after filling during manufacture so that the aerosolizable material can be discarded after consumption, or it may have an inlet port or other opening through which new aerosolizable material can be added. The cartridge assembly 30 also includes an electrical aerosol-generation component 4 located outside the reservoir tank 3 for generating an aerosol by vaporizing the aerosol-generating material. In many embodiments, the aerosol-generation component may be a heating element (heater) that is heated by the passage of an electric current (via resistive or inductive heating) to raise the temperature of the aerosol-generating material until it vaporizes. An aerosol-generating material transport component, such as a wick or other porous element (not shown), may be provided to deliver the aerosol-generating material from the storage compartment 3 to the aerosol-generation component 4. The wick may have one or more portions located inside the storage compartment 3 to absorb the aerosol-generating material and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other portions of the wick that contact the aerosol-generating component 4. This aerosol-generating material is thereby vaporized and replaced by new aerosol-generating material transferred by the wick to the aerosol-generation component 4.

[0053] A heater and wick combination, or other arrangement of components that perform the same function, may be referred to as an atomizer or atomizer assembly. Various designs are possible, and the components may be arranged differently compared to the highly schematic representation of Figure 1. For example, the wick may be an entirely separate element from the aerosol-generation component, or the aerosol-generation component may be porous and configured to perform the wicking function directly (e.g., by taking the form of a suitable electrically resistive mesh or capillary body).

[0054] In some cases, the aerosol-generating material transfer component for delivering liquid for vapor generation may be formed at least in part from one or more slots, tubes, or channels between the storage compartment and the aerosol-generation component that are narrow enough to support capillary action to draw source liquid from the storage compartment and deliver it for vaporization. In general, an atomizer can be considered to be an aerosol-generation component that can generate vapor from an aerosolizable material delivered to it, and a liquid conduit (pathway) can deliver or transport liquid from the storage compartment or similar liquid storage to the aerosol-generation component by capillary forces.

[0055] Typically, the aerosol-generating component is at least partially located within an aerosol-generating chamber that forms part of the airflow channel through the electronic cigarette / system. Vapor generated by the aerosol-generating component is discharged into this chamber, and as air passes through the chamber and flows over and around the aerosol-generating component, the generated vapor is collected and thereby condensed to form the required aerosol.

[0056] Returning to FIG. 1, cartridge assembly 30 also includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening or air outlet through which a user can inhale the aerosol generated by aerosol-generating component 4 and delivered through the airflow channel.

[0057] The power component 20 includes a cell 5 (also referred to herein as a battery, which may be rechargeable) for providing power to the electrical components of the e-cigarette 10, particularly the aerosol-generation component 4. Additionally, there is a printed circuit board 28 and / or other electronics or circuitry for generally controlling the e-cigarette. The control electronics / circuitry connects the vapor-generation component 4 to the battery 5 when vapor is needed, e.g., in response to a signal from an air pressure or airflow sensor (not shown) that detects an inhale on the system 10, while air enters through one or more air inlets 26 in the wall of the power component 20 and flows along an airflow channel. Upon receiving power from the battery 5, the aerosol-generation component 4 vaporizes the aerosolizable material delivered from the storage compartment 3, generating an aerosol that is inhaled by the user through an opening in the mouthpiece 35. The aerosol is transported to the mouthpiece 35 along an air flow path (not shown) connecting the air inlet 26 to the air outlet when the user inhales on the mouthpiece 35. An air flow path through the electronic cigarette is thus defined between the air inlet to the atomizer (which may or may not be in the power component) and the air outlet in the mouthpiece. In use, the direction of air flow along this air flow path is from the air inlet to the air outlet, and the atomizer can therefore be described as being downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the air outlet.

[0058] In this particular example, the power section 20 and cartridge assembly 30 are separate parts that are detachable from one another by separating them in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, as indicated by the solid arrows in FIG. 1 . The components 20, 30 are joined to one another by cooperating engaging elements 21, 31 (e.g., threaded, magnetic, or bayonet couplings) that provide mechanical and electrical connectivity between the power section 20 and cartridge assembly 30 when the device 10 is in use. However, this is merely an exemplary arrangement; various components may be distributed differently between the power section 20 and cartridge assembly section 30, and other components and elements may be included. The two sections can be connected together end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration, as in FIG. 1 , or in a different configuration, such as a parallel arrangement. The system may or may not be generally cylindrical and / or may have a generally longitudinal shape. Either or both sections may be intended to be disposed of and replaced when depleted (e.g., when the reservoir is empty or the battery is flat), or may be intended for multiple uses enabled by actions such as refilling the reservoir, recharging the battery, or replacing the atomizer. Alternatively, the e-cigarette 10 may be a single device (disposable or refillable / rechargeable) that cannot be separated into two or more parts, in which case all components are contained within a single body or housing. Embodiments of the present invention are applicable to any of these configurations, as well as others recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0059] As mentioned above, the type of aerosol-generating component, such as a heating element, that may be utilized in the atomization portion of an electronic cigarette (the component configured to generate vapor from a source liquid) combines the functions of heating and liquid delivery by being both electrically conductive (resistive) and porous. Note that reference to being electrically conductive (resistive) refers to a component capable of generating heat in response to the flow of electrical current therethrough. Such flow can be provided by so-called resistive or inductive heating. An example of a suitable material for this purpose is a conductive material, such as a metal or metal alloy, in sheet form, i.e., formed into a sheet shape having a thickness a fraction of its length or width. Examples of this include meshes, webs, grills, etc. Meshes may be formed from metal wires or fibers woven together or may be aggregated into a nonwoven structure. For example, fibers may be aggregated by sintering, in which heat and / or pressure are applied to a collection of metal fibers to compress them into a single porous mass. A planar aerosol-generation component can define a curved surface, and in these instances, reference to a planar aerosol-generation component forming a surface means an imaginary flat surface that forms a surface of best fit through the component.

[0060] These structures can provide voids and gaps of appropriate size between the metal fibers to provide capillary forces for wicking up liquids. Therefore, these structures can also be considered porous to allow for liquid uptake and distribution. Furthermore, the presence of voids and gaps between the metal fibers allows air to permeate the structure. Metals are also electrically conductive and therefore suitable for resistive heating, whereby current flowing through a material with electrical resistance generates heat. However, this type of structure is not limited to metals. Other conductive materials may be formed into fibers, mesh, grille, or web structures.

[0061] Examples include ceramic materials that may or may not be doped with substances intended to tailor the physical properties of the mesh.

[0062] This type of flat, sheet-like porous aerosol-generating component can be positioned within an electronic cigarette so that it is located within the aerosol-generation chamber and forms part of the airflow channel. The aerosol-generating component may be oriented within the chamber so that airflow through the chamber is superficial, i.e., substantially parallel to the surface of the generally flat, sheet-like aerosol-generating component. Examples of such configurations can be found in WO 2010 / 045670 and WO 2010 / 045671, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. From there, air can flow over a heating element and collect vapor.

[0063] This results in highly efficient aerosol generation. In an alternative embodiment, the aerosol-generating component may be oriented within the chamber such that airflow through the chamber is in a direction that is substantially transverse to the surface direction, i.e., substantially perpendicular to the plane of the substantially flat, sheet-like aerosol-generating component. Examples of such configurations can be found in WO 2018 / 211252, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0064] The aerosol-generating component may have any one of the following structures and / or may be formed in any one of the following structures: woven fabric structure, mesh structure, cloth structure, open-pore fibrous structure, open-pore sintered structure, open-pore foam, or open-pore fused structure. Such structures are particularly suitable for providing an aerosol-generating component with a high degree of porosity. A high degree of porosity can ensure that the heat generated by the aerosol-generating component is primarily used to evaporate the liquid, resulting in high efficiency. Porosities of more than 50% can be envisaged in such structures. In one embodiment, the porosity of the aerosol-generating component is 50% or more, 60% or more, or 70% or more. An open-pore fibrous structure can, for example, consist of a nonwoven fabric, which can optionally be compressed and sintered to further improve cohesion. An open-pore sintered structure can, for example, consist of a granular, fibrous, or flocculent sintered composite material produced by a film casting process. An open-pore deposited structure can, for example, be produced by a CVD process, a PVD process, or flame spraying. Open-cell foams are commercially available in principle and are also available in thin, fine-pore designs.

[0065] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component is formed from a single layer. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component has at least two layers, and these layers comprise at least one of the following structures: plate, foil, paper, mesh, woven structure, fabric, open-pore fiber structure, open-pore sintered structure, open-pore foam, or open-pore fused structure. For example, the aerosol-generating component can be formed by an electrical heating resistor made of a metal foil combined with a structure containing a capillary structure. When the aerosol-generating component is considered to be formed from a single layer, such a layer can be formed from a metal wire fabric or a metal fiber nonwoven. The individual layers are advantageously, but not necessarily, connected to each other by a heat treatment such as sintering or welding. For example, the aerosol-generating component can be designed as a sintered composite material made from one or more layers of stainless steel foil and stainless steel wire fabric (materials such as AISI 304 or AISI 316). Alternatively, the aerosol-generating component can be designed as a sintered composite material made from at least two layers of stainless steel wire fabric. These layers can be connected to each other by spot welding or resistance welding. The individual layers may be mechanically connected to one another. For example, two layers of wire fabric can be created by simply folding one layer over the other. Instead of stainless steel, for example, a heating conductor alloy may be used, particularly NiCr and CrFeAl alloys ("Kanthal"), which have even higher specific electrical resistivity than stainless steel. The material connection between the layers is achieved by heat treatment, so that the layers maintain contact with one another even under adverse conditions, such as during heating by the aerosol-generating component and the resulting thermal expansion. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating component may be formed by sintering multiple individual fibers together. Thus, the aerosol-generating component can be composed of sintered fibers, such as sintered metal fibers.

[0066] The aerosol-generating component may include a thin conductive layer of an electrically resistive material, such as platinum, nickel, molybdenum, tungsten, or tantalum, applied to the vaporizer surface by PVD or CVD processes or any other suitable process. In this case, the aerosol-generating component may comprise an electrically insulating material, such as a ceramic. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials include stainless steels such as AISI 304 or AISI 316, and heating conductor alloys such as DIN material numbers 2,4658, 2,4867, 2,4869, 2,4872, 1,4843, 1,4860, 1,4725, 1,4765, and 1,4767, particularly NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys ("Kanthal").

[0067] As mentioned above, the aerosol-generating component may be formed from a sintered metal fiber material, which may be in the form of a sheet. This type of material can be thought of as a mesh or irregular grid, created by sintering together a randomly aligned arrangement or array of spaced apart metal fibers or strands. A single fiber layer may be used, or multiple layers, e.g., up to five layers, may be used. In one example, the metal fibers have a diameter of 8-12 μm and are arranged to provide a sheet 0.16 mm thick, weighing 100 g / m. 2 ~1500g / m 2 , e.g., 150 g / m 2 ~1000g / m 2 , 200g / m 2 ~500g / m 2 , or 200-250g / m 2The fibers may be spaced apart to produce a material density of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, e.g., 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm, and a porosity of 84%. The thickness of the sheet may also range from 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, e.g., 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm. Specific thicknesses include 0.10 mm, 0.11 mm, 0.12 mm, 0.13 mm, 0.14 mm, 0.15 mm, or 0.1 mm. Generally, the aerosol-generating component has a uniform thickness. However, as will be understood from the following description, the thickness of the aerosol-generating component may also vary. This may be due, for example, to some portions of the aerosol-generating component undergoing compression. Different fiber diameters and thicknesses can be selected to vary the porosity of the aerosol-generating component. For example, the aerosol-generating component may have a porosity of 66% or more, or 70% or more, or 75% or more, or 80% or more, or 85% or more, or 86% or more.

[0068] The aerosol-generating component may form a generally planar structure with a first surface and a second surface. The generally planar structure can take the form of any two-dimensional shape, for example, a circle, a semicircle, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, and / or a polygon.

[0069] The width and / or length of the aerosol-generating component may be from about 1 mm to about 50 mm. For example, the width and / or length of a vaporizer may be 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, or 10 mm. The width may generally be less than the length of the aerosol-generating component. It will be understood that the dimensions of the aerosol-generating component may vary.

[0070] When the aerosol-generating component is formed from an electrically resistive material, an electric current can flow through the aerosol-generating component to generate heat (so-called Joule heating). The electrical resistance of the aerosol-generating component can be selected appropriately. For example, the aerosol-generating component can have an electrical resistance of 2 ohms or less, e.g., 1.8 ohms or less, e.g., 1.7 ohms or less, e.g., 1.6 ohms or less, e.g., 1.5 ohms or less, e.g., 1.4 ohms or less, e.g., 1.3 ohms or less, e.g., 1.2 ohms or less, e.g., 1.1 ohms or less, e.g., 1.0 ohms or less, e.g., 0.9 ohms or less, e.g., 0.8 ohms or less, e.g., 0.7 ohms or less, e.g., 0.6 ohms or less, e.g., 0.5 ohms or less. Parameters of the aerosol-generating component, such as the material, thickness, width, length, and porosity, can be selected to provide the desired resistance. In this regard, a relatively low resistance facilitates drawing higher power from the power source, which can be advantageous for generating a high rate of aerosolization. On the other hand, the resistance should not be so low as to compromise the integrity of the aerosol generator. For example, the resistance should not be less than 0.5 ohms. The aerosol-generating component can have a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector can be disposed at opposite ends of the aerosol-generating component. An electrical resistance can be between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector. Each of the electrical connectors can be adapted to connect to electrical contacts so that the aerosol-generating component can be energized. For example, the electrical connectors can be adapted to connect to a power source via the electrical contacts.

[0071] Planar aerosol-generating components, such as heating elements, suitable for use in the systems, devices, and articles disclosed herein may be formed by stamping or cutting (such as laser cutting) the required shape from a larger sheet of porous material. This may involve stamping, cutting, or otherwise removing material to form openings in the aerosol-generating component. These openings can affect both the ability of air to pass through the aerosol-generating component and the tendency for electrical current to flow in certain areas.

[0072] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 is provided for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system 10, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 being formed from an electrically conductive material, and an outer surface 102 of the aerosol-generating material transfer component defining at least one groove 104.

[0073] The inventors have discovered that during use of an article in which the aerosol-generating material transport component may, under certain conditions, come into direct contact with the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component, there may be a risk of electrical shorting between the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component via the aerosol-generating material transport component. A short circuit may degrade the performance of the article and / or its components or damage the article and / or its components. The at least one groove 104 allows the article 30 to be provided in a manner that eliminates or mitigates the risk of electrical shorting between the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200 via the aerosol-generating material transport component 100. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the at least one groove 104 increases the electrical resistance of the current path between the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200 via the aerosol-generating material transport component 100 (i.e., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transport component 100 and the aerosol-generating component 200). Without being bound by theory, the electrical resistance of the current path may be increased by increasing the length of the current path and / or decreasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol-generating material transport component 100. By increasing the electrical resistance of the current path between each portion of the aerosol-generating component 200 via the aerosol-generating material transport component 100, the risk of an electrical short circuit between each portion of the aerosol-generating component 200 via the aerosol-generating material transport component 100 can be reduced or eliminated.

[0074] An exemplary aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 is shown in Figures 2A-4C.

[0075] As shown in Figures 2A-4C, at least one groove 104 may be elongated. At least one groove may extend from one side of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 to another side (e.g., the opposite side) of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100, as shown in Figures 2A-4C.

[0076] In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.01 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.02 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.03 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.04 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.05 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.06 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.07 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.08 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.09 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.1 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.12 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.15 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.2 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.25 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.3 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a depth of at least 0.4 mm. The depth may be a maximum depth.

[0077] In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.01 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.02 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.03 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.04 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.05 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.06 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.07 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.08 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.09 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.1 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.12 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.15 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.2 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.25 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.3 mm. In one embodiment, each of the at least one grooves 104 has a width of at least 0.4 mm. The width may be a maximum width.

[0078] The depth "d" and width "w" of the at least one groove 104 are shown in Figures 2C, 3C, and 4C.

[0079] 2A-4C, an imaginary flat surface can form a best fit surface through the exterior surface 102 that defines at least one groove 104. When there are multiple grooves 104, the grooves may be arranged in a series. The exterior surface 102 can define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. The grooves 104 may be separated from one another.

[0080] 2A-2C, the outer surface 102 may be corrugated, defining at least one groove 104. The corrugations of the outer surface 102 may define at least one groove 104. For example, the corrugations of the outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a polygonal (e.g., triangular) profile. Each ridge 103 may have a polygonal (e.g., triangular) profile.

[0081] 3A-3C, the outer surface 102 may be undulating, defining at least one groove 104. The undulations of the outer surfaces 102, 104 may define the at least one groove 104. For example, the undulations of the outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a curved profile.

[0082] 4A-4C, the outer surface 102 defining at least one groove 104 may be bridge-shaped. For example, the bridge-shaped outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) profile. Each ridge 103 may have a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) profile.

[0083] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 may be formed from a thermally conductive material. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 1 W / mK (Watt per meter-Kelvin) at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 2 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 4 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 5 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 8 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 10 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20°C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 12 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 14 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity of at least 15 W / mK at atmospheric pressure and 20° C.

[0084] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material delivery component 100 has a viscosity of at least 1×10 at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 5 S / m (Siemens per meter). In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity of at least 2×10 at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 5 In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity of at least 5×10 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 5 / m. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity of at least 1×10 6 In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity of at least 1.2×10 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 6In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity of at least 1.4×10 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 6 In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity of at least 1.4×10 S / m at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 6 It has an electrical conductivity of S / m.

[0085] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one embodiment, the metallic material is a metal. In one embodiment, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one embodiment, the metal alloy is stainless steel. In one embodiment, the stainless steel is stainless steel 316.

[0086] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 is porous. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 is a mesh.

[0087] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an article 30 is provided for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system 10, the article 30 comprising: an aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 defines at least one groove 104; an aerosol-generating component (200), wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) is arranged to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component (200), and wherein at least one groove (104) is configured to reduce or prevent the risk of an electrical short between respective portions of the aerosol-generating component (200) via the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100); Equipped with.

[0088] The aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 may be characterized by any of the features of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 of the above-described aspects of the present disclosure.

[0089] Exemplary arrangements of aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and aerosol-generating component 200 provided in article 30 are shown in Figures 2C, 3C, and 4C. Other components of article 30 are not shown but would be known to those skilled in the art.

[0090] As can be seen from Figures 2C, 3C, and 4C, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 is positioned to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component 100. For example, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 can be or may be positioned in direct contact with a respective portion of the aerosol-generating component 200. "Respective portions" are shown in Figures 2C, 3C, and 4C (i.e., there is direct contact between the respective components 100, 200).

[0091] By "capable of direct contact," it is meant that the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 can, but need not necessarily, directly contact the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200. In other words, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 can be positioned away from the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200 such that an air gap is provided between the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200. In this manner, direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200 may occur, for example, through normal use of the article 30, which may cause relative movement of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and / or the aerosol-generating component 200. "Direct contact" between the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200 is shown in Figures 2C, 3C, and 4C.

[0092] Referring again to Figures 2C, 3C, and 4C, at least one groove 104 may be positioned between sections of the aerosol-generating material transport component 100 that are capable of or positioned in direct contact with respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200.

[0093] In one embodiment, the “internal structure” of the aerosol-generating material transport component 100 (eg, due to any pores or gaps) may not be considered part of the at least one groove 104 .

[0094] 5 shows an exemplary aerosol-generating component 200. The aerosol-generating component 200 may be formed from an electrically conductive material. The aerosol-generating component 200 may include a metallic material. The aerosol-generating component 200 may be formed from a metallic material. The metallic material may be a metal. The metallic material may be a metal alloy. The metal alloy may be stainless steel, for example, stainless steel 316. The aerosol-generating component 200 may be substantially planar.

[0095] The aerosol-generation component 200 comprises an aerosol-generation section 202 configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosolizable material. The aerosol-generation component 200 may be an electrical resistance heating element. The aerosol-generation component 200 may comprise a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204. Each electrical connector 203, 204 may be located at a respective end of the aerosol-generation component 200. The electrical connectors may take any form that facilitates electrical connection. For example, the electrical connectors may correspond to contacts (e.g., tabs that can form an electrical connection solely by contact with an electrical contact) and / or may comprise secure connection means for secure connection to the electrical contacts.

[0096] The aerosol-generating component 200 can include at least one slot 205, such as a plurality of slots 205. Here, "slot" requires a through-hole. As shown in FIG. 5, one or more slots 205 can be open. However, one skilled in the art will understand that one or more slots 205 can be closed. The arrangement of the open and / or closed slots 205 can vary.

[0097] The elongated holes 205 may be spaced apart from one another. For example, the elongated holes 205 may be spaced apart from one another along the axis of the aerosol-generation component 200 (e.g., the longitudinal axis as shown in FIG. 5). The elongated holes 205 may be arranged parallel to one another. The elongated holes 205 may be arranged in a series. A first series of elongated openings 205 may be arranged along a first edge of the aerosol-generation component 200. A second series of elongated holes 205 may be arranged along a second (e.g., first) edge of the aerosol-generation component 200. The first series and the second series may be offset from one another, for example, as shown in FIG. 5. The elongated holes 205 may be slots or slits. The elongated pores 205 increase the electrical resistance through the aerosol-generation component 200 (e.g., as measured between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204), for example, by increasing the length of the electrical current path through the aerosol-generation component 200 and / or by decreasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol-generation component 200 through which the electrical current path flows. In one embodiment, the elongated pores 205 extend across at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the width (or length) of the aerosol-generation component 200. In one embodiment, the width of the elongated pores 205 is at least 0.05 mm, at least 0.08 mm, at least 0.1 mm, at least 0.12 mm, at least 0.14 mm, at least 0.16 mm, at least 0.18 mm, or at least 0.2 mm.

[0098] The aerosol-generation section 202 is configured to be heated to an aerosolization temperature for aerosolizing the aerosolizable material. The aerosol-generation section 202 may comprise a plurality of elongated heating sections 206 or may be formed from a plurality of elongated heating sections 204. The elongated heating sections 206 may be spaced apart from one another. For example, the elongated heating sections 206 may be spaced apart from one another along the axis (e.g., longitudinal axis) of the aerosol-generation component 200. The elongated heating sections 206 may be arranged parallel to one another. The elongated heating sections 206 may be arranged in series. The elongated heating sections 206 are configured to be heated to an aerosolization temperature for aerosolizing the aerosolizable material.

[0099] In one embodiment (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200), the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol-generating material transfer component 200 may be less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100. In one embodiment (e.g., when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 200), the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 may be longer than the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100. In one embodiment (e.g., when there is direct contact between the respective portions of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and the aerosol-generating component 200), the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 may be serpentine.

[0100] These concepts are illustrated in Figure 6, where the current path through only the aerosol-generation component 200 between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 is indicated by arrow "A," and the current path through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 is indicated by arrow "B." The current path here is the path of least electrical resistance, either through the aerosol-generation component 200 alone, or through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and then through the aerosol-generation component 200.

[0101] Here, "the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol-generating component 200 is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating material transport component 100" means that the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through a current path that traverses only the aerosol-generating component 200 is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through any current path that traverses the aerosol-generating material transport component 100.

[0102] Here, "between first electrical connector 203 and second electrical connector 204 through aerosol-generating material transport component 100" means from first electrical connector 203, through an upstream section of the aerosol-generating material transport component (e.g., an upstream section of aerosol-generation section 202), through at least a portion of aerosol-generating material transport component 100, through a downstream section of the aerosol-generating material transport component (e.g., a downstream section of aerosol-generation section 202), to second electrical connector 204. "Upstream" and "downstream" in this context refer to the direction of current flow.

[0103] The rate of reduction (X) from the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol-generating component 200 to the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 is defined by the following formula: X=100*((RAGC-RAGTC) / RAGC), where RAGC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol-generating component 200, RAGTC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100, and X is at least 5%.

[0104] X may be at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 12%, at least 14%, at least 16%, at least 18%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, or at least 50%.

[0105] The aerosol-generating material delivery component 100 has a viscosity of at least 1×10 at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 5 S / m (Siemens per meter), at least 2 x 10 5 S / m, at least 5 × 10 5 S / m, at least 1 × 10 6 S / m, at least 1.2 × 10 6 S / m, at least 1.4 × 10 6 S / m, or at least 1.4 × 10 6 It can have an electrical conductivity of S / m.

[0106] The aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 may be formed from a thermally conductive material. In this manner, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 can effectively distribute (and / or dissipate) heat so as to avoid or reduce the risk of localized "hot spots" forming during use. In contrast, aerosol-generating material transfer components with relatively low thermal conductivity, such as cotton, may experience localized "hot spots." In cotton, these localized "hot spots" may accidentally form carbonyls.

[0107] The aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 can have a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 W / mK (watt per meter-Kelvin), at least 2 W / mK, at least 4 W / mK, at least 5 W / mK, at least 8 W / mK, at least 10 W / mK, at least 12 W / mK, at least 14 W / mK, or at least 15 W / mK.

[0108] The aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 can comprise a metallic material. The aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 can be formed of a metallic material. The metallic material can be a metal. The metallic material can be a metal alloy. The metal alloy can be stainless steel, for example, stainless steel 316. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 comprises or is formed from a mesh.

[0109] The aerosol-generating component 200 has a viscosity of at least 1×10 at atmospheric pressure and 20° C. 5 S / m (Siemens per meter), at least 2 x 10 5 S / m, at least 5 × 10 5 S / m, at least 1 × 10 6 S / m, at least 1.2 × 10 6 S / m, at least 1.4 × 10 6 S / m, or at least 1.4 × 10 6 It can have an electrical conductivity of S / m.

[0110] The aerosol-generating component 200 may be formed from a thermally conductive material.

[0111] The aerosol-generating component 200 may have a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 W / mK (watt per meter-Kelvin), at least 2 W / mK, at least 4 W / mK, at least 5 W / mK, at least 8 W / mK, at least 10 W / mK, at least 12 W / mK, at least 14 W / mK, or at least 15 W / mK.

[0112] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an article 30 is provided for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system 10, the article 30 comprising: an aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 defines at least one groove 104; an aerosol-generating component 200 having a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204; Equipped with the aerosol-generating material delivery component 100 is positioned to deliver the aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component 200; the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 is capable of or is positioned in direct contact with each portion of the aerosol-generating component 200; When there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100 and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component item 200, the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating component 200 alone is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through the aerosol-generating material transfer component 100.

[0113] Article 30 can be characterized by any of the features of article 30 of the above-described aspects of the present disclosure.

[0114] In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-flammable aerosol delivery system 10 comprising an article 30: The article 30 comprises an aerosol-generating material transport component 100 formed of a conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol-generating material transport component 100 defines at least one groove 104; the aerosol-generating material transport component 100 configured to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component 200, wherein the at least one groove 104 is configured to reduce or prevent the risk of electrical shorting between respective portions of the aerosol-generating component 200 via the aerosol-generating material transport component 100; and a device 20 connected to the article 30 for delivering power to the aerosol-generating component 200, wherein the device comprises one or more power sources and a controller.

[0115] Article 30 can be characterized by any of the features of article 30 of the above-described aspects of the present disclosure.

[0116] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system 10 is provided that includes the following items 30: The article (30) comprises an aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface (102) of the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) defines at least one groove (104); and an aerosol-generating component (200) having a first electrical connector (203) and a second electrical connector (204), wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) is positioned to deliver an aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component (200), the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) being capable of or positioned in direct contact with respective portions of the aerosol-generating component (200), and wherein when there is direct contact between the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100) and the respective portions of the aerosol-generating component (200), the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector (203) and the second electrical connector (204) through the aerosol-generating component (200) alone is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector (203) and the second electrical connector (204) through the aerosol-generating material transfer component (100); The article 30 includes a device 20 for connecting to the article 30 and delivering power to the aerosol-generating component 200, the device 20 including one or more power sources and a controller.

[0117] Article 30 can be characterized by any of the features of article 30 of the above-described aspects of the present disclosure.

[0118] Any aspect of the present disclosure may be defined in relation to any other aspect of the present disclosure, for example, one aspect of the present disclosure may include any of the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure, and / or the features of one aspect of the present disclosure may be defined in relation to the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

[0119] The figures herein are schematic and not drawn to scale. 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 considered 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-generating material transfer component for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, comprising: The aerosol-generating material transfer component is formed from an electrically conductive material, and an outer surface of the aerosol-generating material transfer component defines at least one groove.

2. 10. The aerosol-generating material transport component of claim 1, wherein the at least one groove has a depth of at least 0.01 mm.

3. 3. The aerosol-generating material transport component of claim 1, wherein the at least one groove has a width of at least 0.01 mm.

4. The aerosol-generating material transport component of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one groove comprises a plurality of grooves.

5. 5. The aerosol-generating material transfer component of claim 1, wherein an imaginary flat surface forms a surface of best fit through the exterior surface.

6. The aerosol-generating material transfer component of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outer surface is corrugated.

7. The aerosol-generating material transfer component of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outer surface is corrugated.

8. The aerosol-generating material transfer component of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outer surface is bridge-shaped.

9. The aerosol-generating material transfer component of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component is formed from a thermally conductive material.

10. An aerosol-generating material transfer component according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component comprises or is formed from a metallic material.

11. 1. An article for use as part of a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, comprising: an aerosol-generating material transfer component formed of an electrically conductive material, an outer surface of the aerosol-generating material transfer component defining at least one groove; an aerosol-generating component; Equipped with the aerosol-generating material transfer component is positioned to deliver an aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component; The article, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce or prevent the risk of an electrical short between respective portions of the aerosol-generating component via the aerosol-generating material transport component.

12. 12. The article of claim 11, wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component is capable of or is positioned in direct contact with a respective portion of the aerosol-generating component.

13. 13. The article of claim 11 or 12, wherein the at least one groove is disposed between sections of the aerosol-generating material transport component that are capable of or disposed in direct contact with respective portions of the aerosol-generating component.

14. The article of any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the aerosol-generating component comprises a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector.

15. 15. The article of claim 14, wherein the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol-generating component is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transfer component.

16. the percentage reduction (X) from the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol-generating component to the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transfer component is X = 100*((RAGC - RAGTC) / RAGC) 16. The article of claim 14 or 15, wherein RAGC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol-generating component, RAGTC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through the aerosol-generating material transfer component, and X is at least 5%.

17. The article of any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the aerosol-generating component comprises or is formed of a metallic material.

18. The article of any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the aerosol-generating component is substantially planar.

19. The article of any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the aerosol-generating component comprises at least one elongated hole.

20. 20. The article of claim 19, wherein the elongated hole is open around the aerosol-generating component.

21. The article of any one of claims 11 to 20, wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component is characterized by any one of claims 2 to 10.

22. A non-flammable aerosol delivery system comprising an article and a device for connecting to the article, The article comprises: an aerosol-generating material transfer component formed of an electrically conductive material, an outer surface of the aerosol-generating material transfer component defining at least one groove; an aerosol-generating component, wherein the aerosol-generating material transfer component is positioned to deliver aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component, and the at least one groove is configured to reduce or prevent the risk of an electrical short between respective portions of the aerosol-generating component via the aerosol-generating material transfer component; Equipped with The device delivers power to the aerosol-generating component and includes one or more power sources and a controller.

23. 23. The aerosol delivery system of claim 22, wherein the article is characterized according to any one of claims 12 to 20.

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