Aerosol generation components

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol delivery system with improved control over the properties of the generated aerosols. [Solution] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating component comprising a plurality of elongated heating portions 130E extending between terminal portions 130F, with elongated apertures 130B provided between adjacent heating portions, and at least one elongated aperture tapering in the longitudinal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to delivery systems, particularly non-combustible aerosol delivery systems and components of said aerosol delivery systems. The present invention further relates to methods of generating and delivering an aerosol using the non-combustible aerosol delivery systems and components disclosed herein.

Background Art

[0002] Non-combustible aerosol delivery systems for generating an aerosol for inhalation by a user are known in the art. Such systems typically comprise an aerosol generator capable of converting an aerosolizable material into an aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol generated is a condensed aerosol, where the aerosolizable material is first vaporized and then condensable into an aerosol. In other examples, the aerosol generated is an aerosol resulting from the atomization of the aerosolizable material. Such atomization can be mechanically effected, for example, by subjecting the aerosolizable material to vibrations so as to form small particles of the material entrained in an air stream. Alternatively, such atomization may be effected electrostatically or by other methods such as using pressure.

[0003] Since such aerosol delivery systems are intended to generate an aerosol for a user to inhale, it is necessary to consider the characteristics of the aerosol generated. These characteristics may include the size of the particles of the aerosol, the total amount of the aerosol generated, and the like.

[0004] When an aerosol delivery system is used to simulate a smoking experience, for example, as an e-cigarette or a similar product, the control of these various characteristics is particularly important since a user may expect a particular sensory experience to result from the use of the system.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol delivery system having improved control of these characteristics. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating component is provided, comprising a plurality of elongated heating portions extending between terminal portions, with elongated apertures provided between adjacent heating portions, and at least one elongated aperture tapering in the longitudinal direction.

[0007] In some examples, multiple elongated apertures that taper in the longitudinal direction are provided on the aerosol generation component.

[0008] In some examples, each elongated aperture is positioned between each pair of adjacent heating sections.

[0009] In some examples, at least two adjacent elongated apertures may taper in opposite directions.

[0010] In some examples, at least one heating portion has a substantially constant cross-sectional area, and the cross-section is taken perpendicular to the length of at least one heating portion.

[0011] In some examples, at least one elongated aperture is enclosed. In some examples, at least one elongated aperture is within or enclosed by the periphery of the aerosol-generating component. For example, at least one elongated aperture may be enclosed by an adjacent heating portion and an opposing terminal portion.

[0012] In some examples, the elongated aperture has a maximum width of 2.0 mm and / or a minimum width of at least 0.1 mm. The maximum width of the elongated aperture may be 1.8 mm, or 1.6 mm, or 1.5 mm, or 1.4 mm, or 1.2 mm, or 1.0 mm. The minimum width of the elongated aperture may be at least 0.2 mm, or at least 0.3 mm, or at least 0.4 mm.

[0013] In some examples, the heating elements are arranged side by side. In some examples, the heating elements are part of the heating section of the aerosol-generating component.

[0014] In some examples, the aerosol-generating components are substantially planar.

[0015] In some examples, the aerosol-generating components are formed by a single layer.

[0016] In some examples, the aerosol-generating components are formed from conductive materials.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating component is provided, comprising a plurality of elongated heating portions extending between terminal portions, with elongated apertures provided between adjacent heating portions, and at least one heating portion tapering in the longitudinal direction.

[0018] In some examples, the multiple elongated heating sections taper towards the end of their length.

[0019] In some examples, at least two adjacent heating sections taper in opposite directions.

[0020] In some examples, at least one elongated aperture is enclosed. In some examples, at least one elongated aperture is within or enclosed by the periphery of the aerosol-generating component. For example, at least one elongated aperture may be enclosed by an adjacent heating portion and an opposing terminal portion.

[0021] In some examples, at least one of the heating elements has a maximum width of 2.0 mm and / or a minimum width of at least 0.1 mm. The maximum width of the heating element may be 1.8 mm, or 1.6 mm, or 1.5 mm, or 1.4 mm, or 1.2 mm, or 1.0 mm. The minimum width of the heating element may be at least 0.2 mm, or at least 0.3 mm, or at least 0.4 mm.

[0022] In some examples, the heating portions are arranged side by side.

[0023] In some examples, the aerosol generating component is substantially planar.

[0024] In some examples, the aerosol generating component is formed by a single layer.

[0025] In some examples, the aerosol generating component is formed of a conductive material.

[0026] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol generating component according to the previous aspect and one or more of a reservoir for an aerosolizable material and an aerosol generation chamber.

[0027] In some examples, the aerosol generating component is at least partially disposed within the aerosol generation chamber.

[0028] In some examples, the reservoir is configured to supply an aerosolizable material to the aerosol generating component.

[0029] In some examples, the reservoir is configured to hold a liquid aerosolizable material.

[0030] In some examples, the aerosol generating component is biased relative to the aerosol generating material transfer component.

[0031] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol supply system comprising an article comprising an aerosol generating component according to the previous aspect and a device comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

[0032] It will be understood that the features and embodiments of the present invention described above with respect to the first and other aspects of the present invention are equally applicable to and may be combined with other embodiments of the present invention as appropriate, not only in the specific combinations described above.

[0033] Here, various embodiments will be described in detail, merely as examples, with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0034] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the aerosol supply system described herein. [Figure 2] This is a diagram of an article to be used as part of an aerosol supply system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the item. [Figure 4] This is a rough sketch of an aerosol generating component for use in the article shown in Figure 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating component for use in the article shown in Figure 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating component for use in the article shown in Figure 2 of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0035] [Detailed explanation] This specification discusses / describes aspects and features of specific examples and embodiments. Some aspects and features of specific examples and embodiments can be carried out conventionally and, for the sake of brevity, will not be discussed / described in detail. Therefore, it will be understood that aspects and features of apparatus and methods discussed herein but not described in detail can be carried out according to any prior art for carrying out such aspects and features.

[0036] As described above, this disclosure relates to non-combustible aerosol supply systems and devices that generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials (which may also be referred to herein as aerosolizable materials) without burning 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 examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement of this disclosure. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustible heating system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates aerosols using a combination of one or more aerosol-generating materials that can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials in such a hybrid system may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some examples, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0037] Throughout the following explanation, the terms "e-cigarette" and "electronic cigarette" may be used, and it should be understood that these terms may be used interchangeably with the non-combustion aerosol (vapor) supply systems or devices described above.

[0038] In some examples, the disclosure relates to consumables for holding aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0039] A non-combustible aerosol supply system typically comprises a device component (which may also be referred to herein as a device) and a consumable / article component (which may also be referred to herein as an article). The device component typically comprises a power source and a controller. The power source is typically a power source, such as a rechargeable battery.

[0040] In some examples, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise an area for receiving or engaging consumables / articles, an aerosol generator (which may or may not be located within the consumables / articles), an aerosol generation area (which may be located within the consumables / articles), a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0041] In some examples, consumables / articles for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices may include aerosol-generating material, aerosol-generating material storage area (which may also be referred herein as a reservoir for aerosolizable material), aerosol-generating material transfer component (e.g., a wick such as a pad), aerosol generator (which may also be referred herein as an aerosol-generating component), aerosol-generating area (which may also be referred herein as an aerosol-generating chamber), housing, packaging paper, filters, mouthpieces and / or aerosol modifiers.

[0042] The systems described herein typically generate inhalable aerosols by vaporizing an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0043] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. In some examples, the aerosol-generating material may include an "amorphous solid," which may alternatively be called 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 hold some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some examples, the aerosol-generating material may include, for example, about 50% by weight, 60% by weight, or 70% by weight of amorphous solid, or about 90% by weight, 95% by weight, or 100% by weight of amorphous solid.

[0044] As used herein, the term “active substance” may refer to a physiologically active substance, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. Active substances may be selected from, for example, dietary supplements, nootropics, and psychostimulants. Active substances may be naturally occurring or obtained synthetically. Active substances may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or their components, derivatives, or combinations. Active substances may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another plant.

[0045] Aerosol-forming materials may comprise one or more components capable of forming aerosols. In some examples, aerosol-forming materials may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, mesoerythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixtures, benzyl benzoate, benzylphenyl acetate, tributyline, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0046] One or more other functional materials may include one or more pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0047] Where used herein, the term “component” is used to refer to a component, section, unit, module, assembly or similar of an electronic cigarette or similar device, possibly incorporating several smaller parts or elements within an external housing or wall. An electronic cigarette may be formed or constructed from one or more such components, which may be removably or separably connected to one another, or permanently joined to one another during manufacturing to define the entire electronic cigarette. The disclosure is applicable to a system comprising two components, (but not limited to) being separably connected to one another and configured, for example, as a consumable / article component (also referred herein as a cartridge or cartomizer) capable of holding an aerosol-generating material, and as a device / control unit having a battery for supplying power to operate an element for generating vapor from the aerosol-generating material.

[0048] Figure 1 is a very schematic diagram (not to scale) of an exemplary aerosol / vapor supply system, such as the e-cigarette 10. The e-cigarette 10 may have a substantially cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis shown by a dashed line, and comprises two main components, namely a control or power component or section 20 (which may also be referred to herein as a device) and a cartridge assembly or section 30 (which may also be referred to herein as an article, consumable, cartomizer or cartridge) that acts as a vapor generation component.

[0049] The cartridge assembly 30 includes a storage compartment 3 (which may also be referred to herein as a reservoir) containing an aerosolizable material containing a liquid formulation from which an aerosol is generated, for example, nicotine. For example, the aerosolizable material may contain about 1-3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, with the remainder being approximately propylene glycol, and possibly water or other components such as flavorings. The storage compartment 3 is a container or vessel having the form of a storage tank, capable of storing the aerosolizable material such that it moves and flows freely (in the case of a liquid) only within the tank. Alternatively, the storage compartment 3 may contain some amount of absorbent material, such as cotton or glass fiber, to hold the aerosolizable material within a porous structure. The storage compartment 3 may be sealed after being filled during manufacturing, or may have an inlet port or other opening into which new aerosolizable material can be added, so that it is disposable after the aerosolizable material has been consumed. The cartridge assembly 30 also includes an electro-aerosol generating component 4 located outside the reservoir tank 3 to generate an aerosol by vaporizing the aerosolizable material. In many devices, the aerosol generating component may be a heating element (heater) that is heated by the passage of an electric current (via resistance heating or induction heating) to raise the temperature of the aerosolizable material until it evaporates. A liquid conduit structure, such as a wick or other porous element (not shown), may be provided to deliver the aerosolizable material from the storage compartment 3 to the aerosol generating component 4. The wick may have one or more portions located inside the storage compartment 3 so that it can absorb the aerosolizable material and transfer the aerosolizable material to other parts of the wick that are in contact with the aerosol generating component 4 by wick action or capillary action. This causes the aerosolizable material to vaporize and be replaced by new aerosolizable material transferred to the aerosol generating component 4 by the wick.

[0050] The combination of heater and wick, or other components that perform the same function, may be called an atomizer or atomizer assembly. Various designs are possible in which the components may be arranged differently compared to the very schematic diagram in Figure 1. For example, the wick may be an element completely separate from the aerosol-generating components, or the aerosol-generating components may be porous and configured to directly perform the wick phenomenon function (e.g., by taking the form of a suitable electrical-resistant mesh or capillary body).

[0051] In some cases, the conduit for delivering the liquid for vapor generation may be at least partially formed from one or more slots, tubes, or channels between the storage compartment and the aerosol-generating component, which are narrow enough to assist capillary action in drawing the source liquid from the storage compartment and supplying it for vaporization. Generally, an atomizer can be thought of as an aerosol-generating component that can generate vapor from an aerosolizable material delivered to it, and a liquid conduit (pathway) that can deliver or transport the liquid from the storage compartment or a similar liquid storage section to the aerosol-generating component by capillary force.

[0052] Typically, an 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. The vapor generated by the aerosol-generating component is pushed into this chamber, and as air flows through the chamber and over and around the aerosol-generating component, it collects and condenses the generated vapor to form the desired aerosol.

[0053] Returning to Figure 1, the cartridge assembly 30 also includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening or air outlet from which the user can inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 4 and delivered through the airflow channel.

[0054] The power component 20 includes a cell or battery 5 (also referred to herein as a battery, and may be rechargeable) for supplying power to the electrical components of the e-cigarette 10, particularly the aerosol-generating component 4. Furthermore, there is a printed circuit board 28 and / or other electronic equipment or circuits for overall control of the e-cigarette. The control electronic equipment / circuits connect the vapor-generating component 4 to the battery 5 when vapor is needed, in response to a signal from a pneumatic sensor or airflow sensor (not shown) that detects inhalation on the system 10, for example, air entering through one or more air inlets 26 in the wall of the power component 20 so as to flow along an airflow channel. When the aerosol-generating component 4 receives power from the battery 5, it vaporizes an aerosolizable material delivered from the storage compartment 3 to produce an aerosol, which is then inhaled by the user through the opening of the mouthpiece 35. The aerosol is carried to the mouthpiece 35 along an airflow channel (not shown) connecting the air inlets 26 to the air outlet when the user inhales through the mouthpiece 35. Therefore, the airflow path through the electronic cigarette is defined between the air inlet to the atomizer (which may or may not be within the power component) and the air outlet to the mouthpiece. During use, the direction of airflow along this airflow path is from the air inlet to the air outlet, so the atomizer can be described as being downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the air outlet.

[0055] In this particular example, the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 are separate parts that can be detached from each other by separating in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, as shown by the solid arrows in Figure 1. The components 20, 30 are joined to each other by cooperating engaging elements 21, 31 (e.g., screws, magnetic or bayonet fittings) that provide mechanical and electrical connections between the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 when the device 10 is in use. However, this is merely an illustrative arrangement, and various components may be distributed differently between the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly section 30, and other components and elements may be included. The two sections may be connected end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration as in Figure 1, or in different configurations such as a parallel side-by-side arrangement. The system may or may not be substantially cylindrical, and / or may have a substantially longitudinal shape. Either or both sections may be intended to be disposed of and replaced when exhausted (e.g., when the reservoir is empty or the battery is depleted), or may be intended to allow for multiple uses through 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 and examples of the present invention are applicable to any of these and other configurations recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0056] As described above, aerosol-generating components of the type that can be used in the atomizing portion of an electronic cigarette (the portion configured to generate vapor from a source liquid), such as heating elements, combine the functions of heating and liquid delivery by being both conductive (electrically resistive) and porous. Note here that the reference to conductive (electrically resistive) refers to a component that has the ability to generate heat in response to the flow of electric current within it. Such a flow can be provided via so-called resistance heating or induction heating. An example of a suitable material for this purpose is a conductive material such as a metal or metal alloy formed in a sheet-like form, i.e., a planar shape with a thickness many times smaller than its length or width. Examples in this regard may be meshes, webs, grilles, etc. Meshes may be formed from metal wires or metal fibers woven together, or they may be aggregated into a nonwoven structure. For example, fibers may be aggregated by sintering, in which case heat and / or pressure is applied to the aggregate of metal fibers to compress it into a single porous mass. Planar aerosol-generating components can define a curved plane, and in these examples, reference to planar aerosol-generating components that form a plane means a virtual planar plane that forms the best-fitting plane through the component.

[0057] These structures can provide appropriately sized voids and gaps between metal fibers, thereby inducing capillary forces for the wicking effect of a liquid. Therefore, these structures can also be considered porous, as they allow for the uptake and distribution of liquid. Furthermore, the presence of voids and gaps between metal fibers allows air to permeate the structure. Also, metals are conductive and therefore suitable for resistive heating, where an electric current flowing through an electrically resistant material generates heat. However, this type of structure is not limited to metals; other conductive materials may be formed into fibers to create mesh, grille, or web structures. An example is a ceramic material, which may or may not be doped with a substance intended to modify the physical properties of the mesh.

[0058] This type of planar, sheet-like porous aerosol-generating component may be placed in an electronic cigarette so as to be within an aerosol-generating chamber that forms part of an airflow channel. The aerosol-generating component may be oriented within the chamber so that the airflow through the chamber can flow in the surface direction, i.e., substantially parallel to the plane of the substantially planar, sheet-like aerosol-generating component. An example of such a configuration can be found in International Publication Nos. 2010 / 045670 and 2010 / 045671, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Thus, air can flow over the heating element and collect vapor. This makes aerosol generation very effective. In an alternative example, the aerosol-generating component may be oriented within the chamber so that the airflow through the chamber can flow in a direction substantially transverse to the surface direction, i.e., substantially perpendicular to the plane of the substantially planar, sheet-like aerosol-generating component. An example of such a configuration can be found in International Publication No. 2018 / 211252, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0059] The aerosol-generating component may have one of the following structures: woven structure, mesh structure, fabric structure, open fiber structure, open sintered structure, open foam, or open deposition structure. The structure is particularly suitable for providing an aerosol-generating component with high porosity. High porosity can ensure that the heat generated by the aerosol-generating component is mainly used to evaporate the liquid, thus enabling high efficiency. Porosity exceeding 50% can be assumed by the structure. In one embodiment, the porosity of the aerosol-generating component is 50% or more, 60% or more, or 70% or more. The open fiber structure may consist of, for example, a nonwoven fabric that can be optionally compressed and further sintered to improve cohesiveness. The open sintered structure may consist of, for example, a granular, fibrous, or cotton-like sintered composite material manufactured by a film casting method. The open deposition structure may be manufactured by, for example, a CVD method, a PVD method, or a flame spraying method. Open foams are commercially available in principle and can be obtained even with a thin pore design.

[0060] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component has at least two layers, each layer comprising at least one of the following structures: plate, foil, paper, mesh, woven structure, fabric, open fiber structure, open sintered structure, open foam, or open deposited structure. For example, the aerosol-generating component can be formed by an electric heating resistor consisting of metal foil combined with a structure including a capillary structure. Where the aerosol-generating component is considered to be formed from a single layer, such a layer may be formed from metal wire cloth or nonwoven metal fiber cloth. The individual layers are preferably connected to each other by heat treatment such as sintering or welding, but this is not necessarily required. For example, the aerosol-generating component can be designed as a sintered composite consisting of stainless steel foil and one or more layers of stainless steel wire cloth (e.g., AISI 304 or AISI 316 material). Alternatively, the aerosol-generating component can be designed as a sintered composite consisting of at least two layers of stainless steel wire cloth. The layers may be connected to each other by spot welding or resistance welding. The individual layers may also be mechanically connected to each other. For example, a double-layer wire cloth can be manufactured simply by folding a single layer. Instead of stainless steel, heat-conducting alloys, particularly NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys like "Kanthal," which have even higher electrical resistivity than stainless steel, can also be used as an example. The interlayer material connection is achieved by heat treatment, and as a result, the layers maintain contact with each other even under unfavorable conditions, such as during heating by aerosol-generating components and the resulting thermal expansion. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating components may be formed by sintering multiple individual fibers together. Thus, the aerosol-generating components can be composed of sintered fibers, such as sintered metal fibers.

[0061] The aerosol-generating components may include, for example, a conductive thin layer of an electrically resistive material such as platinum, nickel, molybdenum, tungsten, or tantalum, which is applied to the surface of the vaporizer by PVD, CVD, or any other suitable method. In this case, the aerosol-generating components may also include an electrically insulating material, such as ceramic. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials include stainless steel such as AISI 304 or AISI 316, and heating conductor alloys, particularly NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys "Kanthal" such as DIN material numbers 2,4658, 2,4867, 2,4869, 2,4872, 1,4843, 1,4860, 1,4725, 1,4765, and 1,4767.

[0062] As described above, the aerosol-generating components may be formed from sintered metal fiber material, or they may be in the form of a sheet. This type of material can be thought of as a mesh or an irregular grid, and is created by sintering together a randomly aligned arrangement or array of spaced-out metal fibers or metal wires. A single layer of fibers or several layers, for example up to five layers, may be used. As an example, the metal fibers have a diameter of 8-12 μm and are arranged to give a sheet with a thickness of 0.16 mm, weighing 100 g / m². 2 ~1500g / m 2 For example, 150g / m 2 ~1000g / m 2 200g / m 2 ~500g / m 2 , or 200-250g / m 2The material density and spacing can be adjusted to produce a porosity of 84%. The sheet thickness may also be in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, for example, 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 components have a uniform thickness. However, from the following description, it will be understood that the thickness of the aerosol-generating components may vary. This may be due, for example, to some parts of the aerosol-generating components being compressed. Different fiber diameters and thicknesses can be selected to vary the porosity of the aerosol-generating components. For example, the aerosol-generating components 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.

[0063] The aerosol-generating component may form a substantially flat structure including first and second surfaces. The substantially flat structure can take any two-dimensional shape, such as a circle, semicircle, triangle, square, rectangle, and / or polygon. Generally, the aerosol-generating component has a uniform thickness.

[0064] The width and / or length of the aerosol-generating components may range from approximately 1 mm to approximately 50 mm. For example, the width and / or length of the 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 smaller than the length of the aerosol-generating components.

[0065] When the aerosol-generating component is formed from an electrically resistive material, current can flow through the aerosol-generating component in such a way that it generates heat (so-called Joule heating). In this regard, the electrical resistance of the aerosol-generating component can be appropriately selected. For example, the aerosol-generating component may 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 ohm 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 material, thickness, width, length, and porosity, can be selected to provide the desired resistance. In this regard, relatively low resistance facilitates higher power extraction from the power source, which may be suitable for rapid aerosolization. On the other hand, the resistance should not be so low that it impairs the integrity of the aerosol generator. For example, the resistance should not be lower than 0.5 ohms.

[0066] Planar aerosol-generating components, such as heating elements, suitable for use in the systems, devices, and articles disclosed herein, can be formed by punching or cutting (e.g., laser cutting) the required shape from a larger sheet of porous material. This may involve punching, cutting, or otherwise removing material to form openings in the aerosol-generating component. These openings may affect both the ability of air to pass through the aerosol-generating component and the rate at which electric current flows through a particular area.

[0067] Figure 2 is a diagram of an exemplary article 100 according to the present disclosure. Article 100 comprises a housing. In this particular example, the housing comprises an outer housing 110 and an inner housing 120. The outer housing 110 is formed by the integration of first and second outer housing components 110a and 110b. The specific appearance of the outer housing 110 is not limited, but in this particular example, the outer housing 110 has a multifaceted surface. The housing, e.g., the outer housing 110, may include at least one outlet 115. In this particular example, there are two outlets 115. The outlets 115 are for delivering aerosols generated within article 100 to the user's mouth. Thus, in the example shown in Figure 2, the outer housing 110 also forms the mouthpiece of the article.

[0068] The first outer housing component 110a interlocks with the second outer housing component 110b to form the outer housing 110. In this particular example, components 110a and 110b interlock with each other via a snap-fit ​​configuration. Specifically, the elastic tab 111 of the second outer housing component 110b (only one side is visible in Figure 2) snaps into the corresponding receiving aperture 112 of the first outer housing component 110a. The exact locations of the tab and aperture are not limited, and it will be understood that, in fact, the tab may be formed on the outer housing component 110a and the aperture on the outer housing component 110b.

[0069] Referring to Figure 3, the first outer housing component 110a is shown separated from the second outer housing component 110b to illustrate the inner housing component 120, the aerosol-generating component 130 (an electrically resistive metal heater in this particular example), the flow regulator 140, and the pad 150. The inner housing component 120 may be configured to define a storage area 121 for aerosolizable material (not shown). The inner housing component 120 may be at least partially sleeved inside the first outer housing component 110a. It is possible to connect the inner housing component 120 to the first outer housing component 110a (for example, they may be mounted to each other or may be part of the same molded piece). The inner housing component 120 may have an open end 122 that meshes with the flow regulator 140. Together, the open end 122 and the flow regulator 140 can define a path for the aerosolizable material to flow from the storage area 121 to the pad 150. An optional mouthpiece (not shown) may be sleeved over the outside of the first outer housing component 110a (or the outer housing may form a mouthpiece).

[0070] The flow regulator 140 may include a recess 141 capable of receiving the open end 122 of the inner housing component 120. The recess 141 may include one or more openings 142 that allow the flow of aerosolizable material through the flow regulator. In this particular example, the openings are slot-shaped, but it will be understood that one or more of the openings may have different cross-sections, such as circular, elliptical, or polygonal. Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of ​​one or more openings may vary throughout the length of the flow regulator. Thus, one or more openings may have a larger cross-sectional area at the position facing the liquid storage area compared to the cross-sectional area at the position facing the pad 150. The flow regulator 140 may be provided around it with an annular seal 143 that functions to suppress the outflow of aerosolizable material from the boundary between the inner housing component 120 and the flow regulator 140. The flow regulator 140 may include a surface on which the aerosol-generating component can be biased, and therefore, possibly, function as a heater support.

[0071] The pad 150 may be formed of a capillary material suitable for holding the aerosolizable material. In particular, when the aerosolizable material flows through the flow regulator 140, the pad 150 may become saturated with the aerosolizable material. However, the capillary properties of the pad 150 suppress leakage of the aerosolizable material from the pad 150. The aerosol-generating component 130 may be positioned close to the pad 150 so that when the aerosol-generating component 130 is energized (resistive heating in this particular example), the aerosolizable material present in the pad 150 is vaporized. As described above, the pad 150 and the aerosol-generating component 130 can be combined as a single component.

[0072] In this particular example, the aerosol generating component 130 is positioned toward the second outer housing component 110b. An electrical contact (e.g., a pin) 116 on the outer housing component 110b may contact the aerosol generating component 130 with an electrical connector (e.g., a tab) 130C to allow current to flow through the aerosol generating component 130 while the system is operating.

[0073] The second outer housing component 110b may include at least one air inlet 117 that allows air to enter the article 100. During use, air can enter the article 100 through at least one air inlet 117 and thereby mix with the vapor produced from the aerosol generating component 130. The resulting aerosol can then be directed to one or more air outlets 115 through at least one airflow channel 180 extending between the first outer housing component 110a and the inner housing component 120. For example, in this particular example, there are two airflow channels 180 that extend longitudinally along the length of the article 100 and cooperate with the air outlets 115 to form a flow path through the article.

[0074] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating component is provided, comprising a material having grains, wherein the orientation of the grains in the material is substantially perpendicular to the axis on which the electrical connector of the aerosol generating component is located. By providing the grains of the material in this direction, the aerosol generating component can be manufactured to be more resistant to material breakage or cracking when the aerosol generating component is forced into a curved shape, for example, by bending the aerosol generating component against the grain orientation. Furthermore, the aerosol generating component can be manufactured to be more resistant to permanent deformation that may occur when the aerosol generating component is forced into a curved shape, for example, by bending the aerosol generating component against the grain orientation. It will be understood that "grain orientation" refers to the orientation in which regions of the material are aligned. Materials such as metals can be processed to include a specific grain orientation.

[0075] This embodiment is most clearly shown in the sketch in Figure 4, where the grain orientation of the material is indicated by dashed lines. An exemplary aerosol-generating component 130 that may have the grain orientation of this embodiment is shown in Figures 5 and 6 (however, the grain orientation is not shown in Figures 5 and 6).

[0076] The axis on which the electrical connector of the aerosol generation component is located may correspond to the first axis.

[0077] The material may have a crystalline structure. As is known to those skilled in the art, it will be understood that any suitable material can be used. For example, the material may be a conductive material. For example, the material may be a metallic material, such as a metal, or a metallic alloy such as stainless steel. Other materials, such as nichrome alloys and NiCrFe alloys, are also conceivable.

[0078] The orientation of the grains in the material may be substantially perpendicular to the central axis through which the aerosol-generating component 130 is curved (e.g., during use). Preferably, this can help ensure that the curved shape of the aerosol-generating component 130 is maintained. In this regard, the aerosol-generating component 130 may have a permanent curve or may be curved when assembled into an article during use (e.g., for connectivity to its surrounding components and the shape of those surrounding components). The central axis through which the aerosol-generating component is curved may correspond to a second axis.

[0079] The aerosol generating component 130 may be substantially planar. The aerosol generating component 130 may be formed from a single layer.

[0080] Each of the electrical connectors 130C may be configured to connect to its respective electrical contact. The electrical connectors 130C may be positioned along an axis.

[0081] It will be understood that the form and dimensions of the electrical connector 130C may be modified. For example, the electrical connector 130C or each electrical connector 130C may be configured to connect to the respective electrical contacts 116. In this way, the aerosol generating component 130 can be powered by a power source such as a battery. The electrical connector 130C or each electrical connector 130C may be configured to connect to the respective electrical contacts 116 in a releasable or permanent manner. The electrical connector 130C or each electrical connector 130C may be configured to connect to the respective electrical contacts by crevice fit, crimp fit, and / or in-between fit. The electrical connector 130C or each electrical connector 130C may be configured to connect to the respective electrical contacts 116 by push fit. The electrical connector 130C provides means for electrically connecting the aerosol generating component 130 to a power source.

[0082] The aerosol-generating component 130 may comprise a heating section 130A and one or more electrical connectors 130C. In various examples, the aerosol-generating component comprises a heating section 130A and two electrical connectors 130A, with each electrical connector 130C located at the opposite end of the heating section 130A. The heating section 130A can be considered as part of the aerosol-generating component 130 that is heated during use to vaporize the aerosolizable material and generate an aerosol. The heating section 130A may be located between the electrical connectors 130C. One or more elongated apertures 130B, also referred to herein as one or more longitudinal gaps 130B, may be provided in the aerosol-generating component 130, for example, the heating section 130A. One or more elongated apertures 130B can typically facilitate the provision of a “hot spot” around their ends where the aerosol-generating material can be rapidly vaporized. The aerosol generating component 130, for example, the heating section 130A, may comprise a plurality of elongated heating portions 130E, which may be arranged side by side. The heating portions 130E may extend between their respective terminal portions 130F. Elongated gaps 130B may be provided between adjacent heating portions 130E.

[0083] The aerosol-generating component 130 can be manufactured using a variety of different techniques, as is well known to those skilled in the art. For example, the grain of the material can be oriented as desired using a variety of different material processing techniques.

[0084] In an alternative embodiment, an aerosol generating component is provided, comprising a material having grains, wherein the orientation of the grains in the material is substantially parallel to one or more elongated apertures within the aerosol generating component. By providing the grains of the material in this direction, the aerosol generating component can be manufactured to be more resistant to material breakage or cracking when the aerosol generating component is forced into a curved shape, for example by bending the aerosol generating component against the grain orientation. Furthermore, the aerosol generating component can be manufactured to be more resistant to permanent deformation that may occur when the aerosol generating component is forced into a curved shape, for example by bending the aerosol generating component against the grain orientation.

[0085] This embodiment is most clearly shown in the sketch in Figure 4, where the grain orientation of the material is indicated by dashed lines. An exemplary aerosol-generating component 130 that may have the grain orientation of this embodiment is shown in Figures 5 and 6 (however, the grain orientation is not shown in Figures 5 and 6).

[0086] The aerosol-generating component 130, including the elongated aperture 130B and any other features thereof, may be as defined elsewhere in this specification.

[0087] The aerosol-generating component 130 can be manufactured using a variety of different techniques, as is well known to those skilled in the art. For example, the grain of the material can be oriented as desired using a variety of different material processing techniques.

[0088] Also provided is an article 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system, comprising an aerosol-generating component 130 as defined herein and one or more reservoirs and aerosol-generating chambers for an aerosolizable material.

[0089] In some examples, the aerosol generation component 103 is at least partially located within the aerosol generation chamber.

[0090] In some examples, the reservoir is configured to supply aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component 103.

[0091] In some examples, the reservoir is configured to hold a liquid aerosolizable material.

[0092] A non-combustion aerosol supply system is also provided, comprising an article having an aerosol generating component 103 as defined herein, and a device having one or more power supplies and controllers.

[0093] In some examples, the power supply is configured to provide power to the aerosol generating component 103 via the electrical connector 130C.

[0094] According to one embodiment, an aerosol-generating component is provided, comprising a plurality of elongated heating portions extending between terminal portions, with elongated apertures provided between adjacent heating portions, and at least one of the elongated apertures tapering longitudinally. While not bound by theory, the tapered portion of the longitudinal aperture introduces a temperature gradient to the heating portion as a result, with the central portion of each aperture located further away from one adjacent edge of the heating portion at the wider end of each aperture compared to the narrower end. This temperature gradient is thought to help drive the aerosolizable material along the heating portion and distribute the aerosolizable material across the heating portion. This results in more effective heating of the aerosolizable material, reduces the amount of aerosolizable material that is "static" on the aerosol-generating component, and reduces the "crackling" sound that may occur when the static aerosolizable material is heated.

[0095] This embodiment is most clearly shown in Figure 5, in which the aerosol-generating component 130 comprises a plurality of elongated heating portions 130E (for clarity, not all heating portions 130E are numbered) extending between terminal portions 130E. Elongated apertures 130B (also referred to herein as slotted apertures) are provided between adjacent heating portions 130E. At least one of the elongated apertures 130B is tapered longitudinally (i.e., along the length of the aperture 130B). During use, the aerosolizable material is distributed along the elongated apertures 130B in the direction of the tapering. In this example, the heating portions 130E are arranged side by side.

[0096] Multiple elongated apertures 130B, tapering longitudinally, may be provided on the aerosol-generating component 130. Each elongated aperture 130B may be provided between each pair of adjacent heating portions 130E. At least two adjacent elongated apertures 130B may taper in opposite directions. For example, if there are multiple elongated apertures 130B, the elongated apertures 130B may alternately taper in opposite directions. This helps to result in a more uniform distribution of the aerosolizable material across the heating portions 130E, and thus can improve aerosol generation.

[0097] At least one elongated heating portion 130E may have a substantially constant cross-sectional area, and the cross-section may be perpendicular to the length of the heating portion 130E.

[0098] At least one of the elongated apertures 130B may be enclosed. This is particularly suitable for moving the aerosolizable material through the enclosed elongated aperture structure (e.g., by capillary forces between adjacent heating portions 130E surrounding the elongated aperture 130B) to result in uniform distribution of the aerosolizable material across the heating portion 130E, particularly in “hot spots” that may be located at the ends of the elongated aperture 130B. In some examples, at least one elongated aperture 130B is within or surrounded by the periphery of the aerosol-generating component 130. For example, at least one elongated aperture 130 may be surrounded by adjacent heating portions 130E and opposing terminal portions 130F.

[0099] For example, at least one (or each) of the elongated apertures 130B may have a maximum width of 2.0 mm, or 1.8 mm, or 1.6 mm, or 1.5 mm, or 1.4 mm, or 1.2 mm, or 1.0 mm. For example, at least one (or each) of the elongated apertures 130B may have a minimum width of at least 0.1 mm, or at least 0.2 mm, or at least 0.3 mm, or at least 0.4 mm. This may also help to facilitate the movement of the aerosolizable material along the opposing edges of the heating portion 130E, for example, by capillary force.

[0100] In some examples, the aerosol-generating component 130 is formed from a single layer.

[0101] In some examples, the aerosol generating component 130 is formed from a conductive material.

[0102] The aerosol generating component 130 may include any other features as defined elsewhere in this specification.

[0103] Articles are also provided for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system, comprising an aerosol-generating component 130, a reservoir for aerosolizable material, and one or more aerosol-forming chambers.

[0104] A non-combustion aerosol supply system is also provided, comprising an article having an aerosol generating component 130 and a device having one or more power supplies and controllers.

[0105] In an alternative embodiment, an aerosol-generating component is provided comprising a plurality of elongated heating portions extending between terminal portions, with elongated apertures provided between adjacent heating portions, and at least one of the heating portions tapering longitudinally. During use, the most tapered (i.e., thinnest) portion of the heating portion is heated first to the operating temperature (due to having the highest electrical resistance), and then the gradually less tapered portion of the heating portion is heated to the operating temperature (due to having relatively lower electrical resistance). This non-uniformity of heating along the heating portions results in a temperature gradient that can drive the aerosolizable material along the heating portions and help distribute the aerosolizable material across the heating portions. This results in more efficient heating of the aerosolizable material, reduces the amount of aerosolizable material that is "static" on the aerosol-generating component, and reduces the "crackling" sound that may occur when the static aerosolizable material is heated.

[0106] This embodiment is most clearly shown in Figure 6, in which the aerosol generating component 130 comprises a plurality of elongated heating portions 130E (not all of which are numbered for clarity) extending between terminal portions 130F. Elongated apertures 130B (also referred herein as slotted apertures 130B) are provided between adjacent heating portions 130E. At least one of the heating portions 130E is tapered longitudinally (i.e., along the length of the heating portion 130E). In this example, the heating portions 130E are arranged side by side.

[0107] In some examples, the multiple elongated heating sections 130E may be tapered in the longitudinal direction.

[0108] Multiple elongated apertures 130B may be provided in the aerosol generation component. Each elongated aperture 130B may be provided between each pair of adjacent heating portions 130E.

[0109] At least one elongated heating aperture 130B may have a substantially constant width (see Figure 6).

[0110] At least two adjacent heating sections 130E may taper in opposite directions. For example, if there are multiple heating sections 130E, the heating sections 130E may alternately taper in opposite directions. This may help to result in a more uniform distribution of the aerosolizable material across the heating sections 130E.

[0111] At least one of the elongated apertures 130B may be enclosed. In some examples, at least one elongated aperture 130B is within or enclosed by the periphery of the aerosol generating component 130. For example, at least one elongated aperture 130B may be enclosed by an adjacent heating portion 130E and an opposing terminal portion 130F.

[0112] For example, at least one (or each) of the heating sections 130E may have a maximum width of 2.0 mm, or a maximum of 1.8 mm, or a maximum of 1.6 mm, or a maximum of 1.5 mm, or a maximum of 1.4 mm, or a maximum of 1.2 mm, or a maximum of 1.0 mm. For example, at least one (or each) of the heating sections 130E may have a minimum width of at least 0.1 mm, or at least 0.2 mm, or at least 0.3 mm, or at least 0.4 mm. This may further help to facilitate the movement of the aerosolizable material along the heating sections.

[0113] The aerosol generating component 130 may include any other features as defined elsewhere in this specification.

[0114] Articles are also provided for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system, comprising an aerosol-generating component 130 as defined herein, and one or more reservoirs and aerosol-generating chambers for aerosolizable material.

[0115] In some examples, the aerosol generation component 103 is at least partially located within the aerosol generation chamber.

[0116] In some examples, the reservoir is configured to supply aerosolizable material to the aerosol-generating component 103.

[0117] In some examples, the reservoir is configured to hold a liquid aerosolizable material.

[0118] A non-combustion aerosol supply system is also provided, comprising an article having an aerosol generating component 103 as defined herein, and a device having one or more power supplies and controllers.

[0119] In some examples, the power supply is configured to provide power to the aerosol generating component 103 via the electrical connector 130C.

[0120] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples 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 as limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or to equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments can be utilized and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may appropriately include, consist of, or essentially consist of, appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future. [Item of the invention] [Item 1] An aerosol generating component comprising a plurality of elongated heating portions extending between terminal portions, with elongated apertures provided between adjacent heating portions, and at least one of the elongated apertures tapering in the longitudinal direction. [Item 2] The aerosol generating component according to item 1, wherein multiple elongated apertures that taper in the longitudinal direction are provided on the aerosol generating component. [Item 3] The aerosol generating component described in item 2, wherein each elongated aperture is provided between each pair of adjacent heating sections. [Item 4] The aerosol generating component according to item 2 or 3, wherein at least two of the adjacent elongated apertures taper in opposite directions. [Item 5] The aerosol generating component according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the at least one elongated heating portion has a substantially constant cross-sectional area, and the cross-section is taken perpendicular to the length of the at least one heating portion. [Item 6] An aerosol-generating component according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein at least one elongated aperture is enclosed. [Item 7] The aerosol generating component according to item 6, wherein the at least one elongated aperture is surrounded by an adjacent heating portion and an opposing terminal portion. [Item 8] The aerosol generating component according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the elongated aperture or each elongated aperture has a minimum width of at least 0.1 mm and a maximum width of 2.0 mm. [Item 9] A substantially planar aerosol-generating component as described in any one of items 1 to 8. [Item 10] An aerosol-generating component formed by a single layer, as described in any one of items 1 to 9. [Item 11] An aerosol generating component, formed from a conductive material, as described in any one of items 1 to 10. [Item 12] An aerosol generating component comprising multiple elongated heating portions extending between terminal portions, with elongated apertures provided between adjacent heating portions, and at least one heating portion tapering in the longitudinal direction. [Item 13] The aerosol generating component according to item 12, wherein the plurality of elongated heating portions are tapered in the longitudinal direction. [Item 14] The aerosol generating component according to item 13, wherein at least two of the adjacent heating portions taper in opposite directions. [Item 15] An aerosol-generating component as described in any one of items 12-14, comprising at least one elongated aperture. [Item 16] The aerosol generating component according to item 15, wherein the at least one elongated aperture is surrounded by an adjacent heating portion and an opposing terminal portion. [Item 17] The aerosol generating component according to any one of items 12 to 16, wherein at least one of the heating portions has a minimum width of at least 0.1 mm and a maximum width of 2.0 mm. [Item 18] Aerosol-generating component described in any one of items 12 to 17, which is substantially planar in shape. [Item 19] An aerosol-generating component, formed by a single layer, as described in any one of items 12 to 18. [Item 20] An aerosol-generating component, formed from a conductive material, as described in any one of items 12 to 19. [Item 21] An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system, comprising an aerosol-generating component described in any one of items 1 to 20, a reservoir for aerosolizable material, and one or more aerosol-generating chambers. [Item 22] The article according to item 21, wherein the aerosol generating component is at least partially disposed within the aerosol generating chamber. [Item 23] The article according to item 21 or 22, wherein the reservoir is configured to supply the aerosolizable material to the aerosol generating component. [Item 24] The article according to any one of items 21 to 23, wherein the reservoir is configured to hold a liquid aerosolizable material. [Item 25] The article according to any one of items 21 to 24, wherein the aerosol generating component is biased relative to the aerosol generating material transfer component. [Item 26] A non-combustion aerosol supply system comprising an article having an aerosol generating component according to any one of claims 1 to 20, and a device having one or more power supplies and controllers.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating component having a plurality of elongated heating portions extending between terminal portions and having a substantially planar shape, Multiple elongated apertures are provided on the aerosol generating component, tapering in the longitudinal direction, and at least two of the adjacent elongated apertures taper in the opposite direction. An aerosol-generating component in which each elongated aperture is provided between each pair of adjacent heating sections.

2. The aerosol generating component according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the elongated heating portions has a substantially constant cross-sectional area, and the cross-section is taken perpendicular to the length of the at least one heating portion.

3. The aerosol generating component according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the elongated apertures is surrounded.

4. The aerosol generating component according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the elongated apertures is surrounded by an adjacent heating portion and an opposing terminal portion.

5. The aerosol generating component according to claim 1, wherein the elongated aperture or each elongated aperture has a minimum width of at least 0.1 mm and a maximum width of 2.0 mm.

6. An aerosol generating component according to claim 1, formed by a single layer.

7. An aerosol generating component according to claim 1, formed from a conductive material.

8. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol supply system, comprising the aerosol-generating component described in claim 1, a reservoir for an aerosolizable material, and one or more aerosol-generating chambers.

9. The article according to claim 8, wherein the aerosol generating component is at least partially disposed within the aerosol generating chamber.

10. The article according to claim 8, wherein the reservoir is configured to supply the aerosolizable material to the aerosol generating component.

11. The article according to claim 8, wherein the reservoir is configured to hold a liquid aerosolizable material.

12. The article according to claim 8, wherein the aerosol generating component is biased with respect to the aerosol generating material transport component.

13. A non-combustion aerosol supply system comprising an article having an aerosol generating component as described in claim 1, and a device having one or more power supplies and controllers.

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