aerosol generator

Abstract

This application relates to an aerosol generator (70) of an article for an aerosol supply device. The aerosol generator comprises an aerosol generating material (74) and a resistance heating layer (72) comprising a plurality of resistance heating elements. Each resistance heating element is configured to heat a respective portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, and the aerosol generating layer is located on the resistance heating layer. Each of the plurality of resistance heating elements extends between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] This specification relates to an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device. This specification also relates to an electrical resistance heating device such as a consumable part of an aerosol generator or an aerosol generating device. This specification further relates to an article for an aerosol supply device, an aerosol supply system, a method of forming an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device, and a blank for forming an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generators for use in aerosol generating devices such as electronic cigarettes have been developed to release compounds without the need for combustion. Some exemplary aerosol generating devices include a resistive heater for use in generating an aerosol. Further development of such devices is still needed.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] The scope of protection sought for various embodiments of the present invention is presented by the independent claims. Embodiments and features described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims, if any, should be construed as useful examples for understanding the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0004] According to one aspect, there is provided an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device, the aerosol generator comprising: an aerosol generating material; and a resistive heating layer including a plurality of resistive heating elements, each resistive heating element being configured to heat a respective portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating material is on the resistive heating layer, and each of the plurality of resistive heating elements extends between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0005] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes an aerosol generating layer incorporating an aerosol generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is located on a resistance heating layer.

[0006] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, the aerosol generator comprising an aerosol generating layer incorporating an aerosol generating material and a resistive heating layer comprising a plurality of resistive heating elements, each of which is configured to heat a respective portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating material is located on the resistive heating layer, and each of the plurality of resistive heating elements extends between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0007] In any of the embodiments described above, the electrical contacts allow current to be supplied individually to each of the multiple heating elements.

[0008] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator may be provided with a plurality of first-type electrical contacts.

[0009] In any of the embodiments described above, each of the plurality of resistive heating elements has a separate electrical contact of the first type.

[0010] In any of the embodiments described above, the electrical contact includes a single electrical contact of a second type.

[0011] In any of the embodiments described above, the second type of single contact is shared among each of the multiple heating elements.

[0012] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator may be provided with a plurality of second types of electrical contacts, and each of the heating elements has a separate second type of electrical contact.

[0013] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating layer defines a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0014] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact is located on a first side surface of the region of the resistance heating layer where the heating element is provided, and the second type of electrical contact is located on a second side surface of the region of the resistance heating layer where the heating element is provided.

[0015] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact is located at the first edge of the resistance heating layer, and the second type of electrical contact is located at the second edge of the resistance heating layer.

[0016] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol generator defines a longitudinal axis.

[0017] In any of the embodiments described above, the first side extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0018] In any of the embodiments described above, the second side extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0019] In any of the embodiments described above, the first and second edges are parallel.

[0020] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are arranged on one side of the region of the resistance heating layer where the heating element is provided.

[0021] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are located on a single edge of the resistance heating layer.

[0022] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator is elongated.

[0023] In any of the above embodiments, one side is the longitudinal end.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, one side is the side that extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator may include a first type of electrical track extending from each of a plurality of heating elements and including a first type of electrical contact.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to a device electrical connector.

[0027] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact includes an exposed contact area.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator may include a second type of electrical track extending from a plurality of heating elements and including a second type of electrical contact.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, the second type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to a device electrical connector.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the second type of electrical contact includes an exposed contact area.

[0031] In any of the above embodiments, the plurality of heating elements includes a first heating element and a second heating element formed from a resistive heating layer.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the resistive heating layer forms an array of heating elements including at least the first heating element and the second heating element.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the plurality of resistive heating elements includes an array of heating elements arranged in a row.

[0034] In any of the above embodiments, the plurality of heating elements includes a single row of resistive heating elements.

[0035] In any of the above embodiments, the array of heating elements is arranged in a row parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0036] In any of the embodiments described above, the array of heating elements is arranged in a row perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0037] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol generator may include a first surface and a second surface different from the first surface, the aerosol generating material being on the first surface, and at least one of a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact being exposed on the second surface.

[0038] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol generator may include a first surface and a second surface different from the first surface, the aerosol generating layer being exposed on the first surface, and at least one of a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact being exposed on the second surface.

[0039] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer includes a fold.

[0040] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element is located on the resistance heating element portion of the resistance heating layer defined by the fold.

[0041] In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact on the electrical contact portion of the resistance heating layer is defined by a fold.

[0042] In any of the embodiments described above, the fold is a single fold.

[0043] In any of the embodiments described above, the fold extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator.

[0044] In any of the embodiments described above, the fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator.

[0045] In any of the above embodiments, the electrical contact portion includes a first type of electrical contact or each of the first types of electrical contacts, and a second type of electrical contact or each of the second types of electrical contacts.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator may include a support.

[0047] In any of the above embodiments, the support is configured to support the resistance heating layer.

[0048] In any of the above embodiments, the support includes a support layer.

[0049] In any of the above embodiments, the support layer is configured to support a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0050] In any of the above embodiments, the support layer is electrically insulating.

[0051] In any of the embodiments described above, the support includes at least one of paper and card.

[0052] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in the form of a foil.

[0053] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0054] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is indirectly in contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0055] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating material is sandwiched between the support layer and the aerosol generating layer.

[0056] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer and the support layer define the substrate.

[0057] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a laminate comprising a resistance heating layer and a support layer.

[0058] In any of the above embodiments, the laminate includes an aerosol-generating layer.

[0059] In any of the above embodiments, the area of ​​the support layer corresponds to the area of ​​the resistance heating layer.

[0060] In any of the embodiments described above, each of the plurality of resistance heating elements is formed by at least one of the following: cutting the resistance heating layer, chemically etching the resistance heating layer, forming or press-forming the resistance heating layer in a substrate, or printing the resistance heating layer.

[0061] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to a device electrical connector, and the second type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to a device electrical connector.

[0062] In any of the embodiments described above, the support layer defines the first type of exposed contact area of ​​the electrical contact.

[0063] In any of the embodiments described above, the exposed contact area is a first exposed contact area, and the support defines a second exposed contact area of ​​a second type of electrical contact.

[0064] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generation layer is a continuous aerosol generation layer.

[0065] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generation layer is a discontinuous aerosol generation layer.

[0066] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer includes a plurality of individual aerosol generating portions.

[0067] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element is one of a plurality of resistance heating elements.

[0068] In any of the embodiments described above, one of the individual aerosol generating sections is associated with a corresponding one of a plurality of resistance heating elements.

[0069] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol-generating layer includes at least one of dots, strips, and patches.

[0070] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer includes a film layer or a gel layer containing an aerosol generating material.

[0071] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in the form of a foil.

[0072] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer includes a metal layer.

[0073] In any of the above embodiments, the resistive heating layer includes a gap that defines at least a portion of the resistive heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the gap defines an electrical insulation barrier. In any of the above embodiments, the gap defines an insulating barrier. In any of the above embodiments, the support layer does not include a gap. In any of the above embodiments, the gap extends through both the support layer and the resistive heating layer. In the embodiment, the gap is a gap filled with, for example, an insulating material.

[0074] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator is at least partially formed by cutting the resistance heating layer and the support together. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator is at least partially formed using die cutting.

[0075] In any of the embodiments described above, each resistive heating element is at least part of a conductive path between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0076] In any of the embodiments described above, at least a portion of the conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact is a nonlinear path.

[0077] In any of the embodiments described above, at least a portion of the conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact is a winding path.

[0078] In any of the embodiments described above, each resistance heating element is a linear heating element.

[0079] In any of the embodiments described above, at least a portion of the conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extends over the length of the aerosol-generating layer.

[0080] In any of the embodiments described above, each resistance heating element is notched.

[0081] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is a single resistance heating sheet containing multiple resistance heating elements.

[0082] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generator is provided, comprising an aerosolizable layer incorporating an aerosolizable material, and a conductive layer in contact with the aerosolizable layer, the conductive layer being formed on a plurality of heating elements, each heating element providing a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol in each portion of the aerosolizable layer, each heating element extending from a first type of electrical connection to a second type of electrical connection. The aerosolizable layer may include a film or gel incorporating the aerosolizable material.

[0083] In any of the above embodiments, the electrical connection may allow current to be supplied individually to each of the multiple heating elements.

[0084] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol generator may include a plurality of electrical connections of the first type (e.g., a plurality of positive electrical connections).

[0085] In any of the above embodiments, each of the heating elements may have, for example, a separate electrical connection of the first type.

[0086] In any of the embodiments described above, the electrical connection may comprise a single connection of the second type (e.g., a single negative electrical connection). In an alternative embodiment, instead of using a common connection of the second type, separate connections of the first and second types are provided for each heating zone.

[0087] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical connection is located at the first edge of the conductive layer, and the second type of electrical connection is located at the second edge of the conductive layer. However, other configurations are also possible.

[0088] In any of the above embodiments, the first and second types of electrical connections may be provided on both sides of the region where the heating element is provided.

[0089] In any other embodiment described above, some or all of the first and second types of electrical connections are provided on the same edge of the conductive layer or on a second side of the region where the heating element is provided.

[0090] Any of the embodiments described above includes a plurality of external connectors, each of which is connected to one of the electrical connection parts.

[0091] In any of the above embodiments, aerosol generation may include a support such as a card or paper material.

[0092] In any of the embodiments described above, the heating element may be formed by cutting the conductive layer (for example, using a laser cutter). Alternatively or additionally, the heating element may be formed by one or more of the following: chemical etching of the conductive layer, forming or press-forming the conductive layer in a substrate, and printing the conductive layer.

[0093] In any of the embodiments described above, each heating element includes a non-linear conductive path (e.g., a winding or meandering path) between the first and second electrical connections. The heating element may, for example, be notched.

[0094] In any of the embodiments described above, each heating element is a linear heating element that includes a conductive path extending over the length of the aerosolizable layer. The heating elements may, for example, be notched.

[0095] In any of the above embodiments, the conductive layer may be in the form of a foil. In any of the above embodiments, the conductive layer may be a metal layer (for example, a metal foil such as aluminum foil).

[0096] According to one embodiment, a blank is provided for forming an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device, comprising a resistance heating layer including a plurality of resistance heating elements, each of the plurality of heating elements extending between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact defined by the resistance heating layer.

[0097] In any of the embodiments described above, the blank includes an aerosol-generating layer incorporating an aerosol-generating material.

[0098] According to one embodiment, a method for forming an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device, comprising: forming a resistance heating layer including a plurality of heating elements, each heating element of the plurality of heating elements providing a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; and forming an aerosol generating layer including an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generating layer being provided on the resistance heating layer, each heating element extending between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0099] According to one embodiment, a method for forming an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device, comprising forming a resistance heating layer including a plurality of heating elements, wherein each heating element of the plurality of heating elements provides a conductive path for resistance heating a portion of an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, and provides the aerosol generating material in the form of a resistance heating layer, each heating element extending between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0100] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer includes a conductive sheet.

[0101] In any of the embodiments described above, the multiple heating elements are formed by cutting a resistance heating layer.

[0102] In any of the embodiments described above, the method may include forming the heating element by chemically etching the resistance heating layer, at least in part.

[0103] In any of the above embodiments, the method may also include forming the heating element by partially printing a resistance heating layer at the end.

[0104] According to one embodiment, a method is provided comprising: forming a conductive layer within a plurality of heating elements, each heating element providing a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of an aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol; and arranging the formed conductive layer in contact with an aerosolizable layer, wherein the aerosolizable layer incorporates the aerosolizable material, and each heating element extends from a first type of electrical connection to a second type of electrical connection. The aerosolizable layer may include a film or gel incorporating the aerosolizable material.

[0105] The electrical connection may allow current to be supplied individually to each of the multiple heating elements.

[0106] In any of the above embodiments, the method may include forming the electrical connection. In any of the above embodiments, a plurality of electrical connections of the first type may be provided. In any of the above embodiments, each of the heating elements may have, for example, a separate electrical connection of the first type. In any of the above embodiments, a single connection of the second type may be provided.

[0107] In any of the above embodiments, the method may include forming the heating element by cutting the conductive layer (for example, using a laser cutter) at least partially.

[0108] In any of the above embodiments, the method may include forming the heating element by chemically etching the conductive layer, at least partially.

[0109] In any of the above embodiments, the method may also include forming the heating element by partially printing the conductive layer at the end.

[0110] In any of the embodiments described above, each heating element may have a non-linear conductive path (e.g., a winding or meandering path) between the first and second electrical connections.

[0111] In any of the above embodiments, each heating element is a linear heating element that includes a conductive path extending over the length of the aerosolizable layer.

[0112] In one embodiment, an article is provided comprising an aerosol generator described in any of the above or formed according to any of the above methods. In any of the above embodiments, the article may be a consumable of the aerosol generation system.

[0113] In any of the embodiments described above, the exterior of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to both the length and the width, where the length is greater than or equal to the width and the width is greater than the depth.

[0114] In any of the embodiments described above, the article is tubular.

[0115] In one embodiment, a non-combustible aerosol generating device is provided that is configured to accept an aerosol generator, article, or consumable formed by referring to any of the above or by any of the above methods. In any of the above embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol generating device may include a connector arrangement configured to supply power to connections of the conductive layer of the aerosol generator (e.g., first and second types of electrical connections as described above).

[0116] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply system is provided comprising an aerosol generator or an article for an aerosol supply device according to any of the above, and an aerosol supply device configured to receive the aerosol generator or the article.

[0117] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generator or an aerosol supply device comprising an article according to any of the above is provided.

[0118] According to one embodiment, a system is provided comprising any of the above-described non-combustion aerosol generating devices and an aerosol generator, article, or consumable formed with reference to any of the above or in accordance with any of the above methods.

[0119] According to one embodiment, a kit of parts is provided comprising any of the above-described non-combustible aerosol generating devices and an aerosol generator, article, or consumable formed according to the above-described or any of the above-described methods, wherein the aerosol generator is detachable from the non-combustible aerosol generating device. The non-combustible aerosol generating device may include an integrated battery.

[0120] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generator for an article for an aerosol supply device, comprising: an aerosol generating material; a resistance heating layer including a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a first type of electrical contact; and a second type of electrical contact. An aerosol generator is provided in which the resistive heating element is at least part of the conductive path between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0121] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes an aerosol generating layer containing an aerosol generating material.

[0122] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply device is provided that is configured to receive articles for any of the above-mentioned aerosol generators or aerosol supply devices.

[0123] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply system is provided comprising an article for any of the above-mentioned aerosol generators or aerosol supply devices and any of the above-mentioned aerosol supply devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0124] Here, an exemplary embodiment will be described as a mere example, with reference to the following schematic diagram. [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of the aerosol supply system. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram of the aerosol generator. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of the aerosol generator. [Figure 4] This shows the heating element. [Figure 5] This shows the conductive layer. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart of the algorithm. [Figure 7] This shows the aerosol generator that forms t. [Figure 8] This shows the formed conductive layer. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of the algorithm. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart of the algorithm. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart of the algorithm. [Figure 12] This shows the formed conductive layer. [Figure 13] This shows the conductive layer. [Figure 14] This shows the conductive layer. [Figure 15] This shows a part of the aerosol generator. [Figure 16] The connectors used in several embodiments are shown. [Figure 17] This is a block diagram of the aerosol generation system. [Figure 18] This is a flowchart of the algorithm. [Figure 19] This shows the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 20] This shows the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 21] This shows the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 22] This is a side view of the aerosol generator. [Figure 23] This is a schematic plan view of a non-combustion aerosol generation device. [Figure 24] This is a schematic plan view of a blank aerosol generator. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0125] As used herein, the term “delivery mechanism” is intended to encompass a system for delivering a substance to a user. Non-combustion aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without burning the aerosolizable materials, such as hybrid systems for generating aerosols using a combination of electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and aerosolizable materials, and the aerosolizable materials themselves. Includes articles configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol supply systems.

[0126] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol-generating materials (or their components) that make up the aerosol supply system are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0127] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0128] 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), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0129] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. An example of such a system is a cigarette heating system.

[0130] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0131] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0132] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising an aerosol-generating material and configured for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0133] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, for example, the non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source or a heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat-generating power source includes a carbon substrate to which energy can be supplied to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or heat-transferring material adjacent to the heat-generating power source.

[0134] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a region for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating region, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0135] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, packaging paper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0136] In some embodiments, the delivered substance may be an aerosol-generating material or a material not intended to be aerosolized. Optionally, any of the materials may include one or more active components, one or more flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0137] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0138] The active substances used herein may be physiologically active materials, which are materials intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. Active substances may be selected from, for example, dietary supplements, nootropics, psychostimulants, or other technical / electronic devices capable of inducing a physiological response, such as digital medicines or vagus nerve stimulation (VGS). Active substances may be naturally occurring or obtained by synthesis. 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 also include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another plant substance. In one embodiment, the active substance is a legally permissible recreational drug.

[0139] In some embodiments, the active substance includes nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance includes caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0140] As described herein, the active substance may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

[0141] As described herein, the active substance may include or be derived from one or more plant substances, or their components, derivatives, or extracts. As used herein, the term “plant substance” includes, but is not limited to, any material derived from a plant, including extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, exoskeletons, shells, etc. Alternatively, the material may include naturally occurring active compounds in plant substances or synthetically obtained active compounds. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, flakes, strips, sheets, etc. Examples of plant-based substances include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay leaf, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea (green or black), thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, and lavender. - Lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, shiso, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damiana, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, calvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof.The aforementioned mint varieties include: Mentha Arventis, Mentha cv, Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata cv, Mentha piperita cv, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, and Mentha spicata. You may choose from cv) and Menthasuaveolens.

[0142] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant substances, or components thereof, derivatives, or extracts, the plant substance being tobacco.

[0143] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant substances or their components, derivatives, or extracts, the plant substances being selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, and hemp.

[0144] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant substances or their components, derivatives, or extracts, the plant substances being selected from rooibos and fennel.

[0145] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes flavorings.

[0146] As used herein, the terms “flavoring” and “flavoring agent” refer to materials that may be used to create a desired taste, aroma, or other somatosensory effect in products intended for adult consumers, where permitted by local regulations.These are naturally occurring flavorings, plant substances, extracts of plant substances, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, anise, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berries, red berries, cranberries, peaches, apples, oranges, mangoes, clementines, lemons, limes). Tropical fruits, papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, kurt, eggplant, betel nut, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang , sage, fennel, wasabi, pimento, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, peppermint oil from any of the Mentha species, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay leaf, mate, orange peel, rose, tea such as green or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, shiso, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damian (damiana) ), may contain other additives such as marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, calvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), as well as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant-derived substances, or breath fresheners.They may be imitations, synthetics, or natural raw materials, or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, such as a liquid like an oil, a solid like a powder, or a gas.

[0147] In some embodiments, the flavor includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus, and / or red berry. In some embodiments, the flavor includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from cannabis.

[0148] In some embodiments, the flavor may include a sensory stimulant, which is usually chemically induced and intended to achieve somatosensation perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve) in addition to or instead of the aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents that produce a heating, cooling, tingling, or numbing effect. A suitable thermal agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and a suitable cooling agent may be, but is not limited to, eucalyptol or WS-3.

[0149] Aerosolizable materials, also referred to herein as aerosol-generating materials, are materials that can generate aerosols when heated, irradiated, or electrically charged in any other manner. Aerosolizable materials may be in the form of solids, liquids, or gels, which may or may not contain nicotine and / or flavorings.

[0150] Aerosol-generating materials (sometimes referred to herein as aerosolizable materials) are materials that can generate aerosols when heated, irradiated, or electrically charged in any other manner. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of solids, liquids, or semi-solids (such as gels), which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0151] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0152] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may also be present. Optionally, a solvent such as water may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant-based materials. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0153] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating film, or may be in the form of an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may also be present. The aerosol-generating film may not contain substantially any plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco-free.

[0154] The aerosol-generating film may have a thickness of approximately 0.015 mm to approximately 1 mm. For example, the thickness may be in the range of approximately 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, or 0.15 mm to approximately 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.

[0155] The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may consist of a continuous sheet of material, or it may be a continuous sheet of material.

[0156] The aerosol-generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol-generating film may include one or more individual parts or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as dots, stripes, or lines, which can be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0157] The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder such as a gelling agent with one or more other components such as a solvent such as water, an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more substances to be delivered to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least a portion of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film.

[0158] The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60% by weight, 70% by weight, 80% by weight, 85% by weight, or 90% by weight of the solvent.

[0159] The aerosol-generating material may be an amorphous solid. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid is a monolithic solid. The aerosol-generating material may be non-fibrous or fibrous. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be a dry gel. The aerosol-generating material may be a solid material capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, inside. In some embodiments, the held fluid may be water (such as water absorbed from the surroundings of the aerosol-generating material), or the held fluid may be a solvent (such as when the aerosol-generating material is formed from a slurry). In some embodiments, the solvent may be water.

[0160] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0161] The aerosol-forming agent material may contain one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming agent material may contain one or more of the following: glycerin, 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 mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyline, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0162] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of the following: pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0163] The material may be present on or within a support to form a substrate. The support may be, for example, paper, cardboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy, or may comprise these. In some embodiments, the support includes a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or both sides of the material.

[0164] Consumables are articles containing or consisting of aerosol-generating material, some or all of which are intended to be consumed during use by the user. Consumables may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which generates heat during use to produce an aerosol in the aerosol-generating material. The heater may comprise, for example, a flammable material, an electrically conductive material, or a susceptor.

[0165] An aerosol supply device can accept an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, "article" refers to a component that includes or contains an aerosol-generating material that is heated during use to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally other components during use. A user may insert an article into or onto the aerosol supply device before the article is heated to generate an aerosol, after which the user inhales the aerosol.

[0166] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to supply thermal energy to the aerosol-generating material in order to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to supply one or more of the aerosol-generating material to vibration, pressure increase, or electrostatic energy.

[0167] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device, generally denoted by reference numeral 10, according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generating device 10 comprises a battery 11 (e.g., a rechargeable battery), a control circuit 12, and an aerosol generator 13. As will be described in detail below, the aerosol generator 13 includes a resistance heater for heating an aerosolizable material (e.g., a film or gel) to generate an aerosol (e.g., vapor). The aerosolizable material is also sometimes called an aerosol generating material.

[0168] The aerosol generation device 10 forms an aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol supply device and an article including an aerosol generator 13. The resistance heater includes at least one resistance heating element.

[0169] Battery 11 functions as a power source. The control circuit functions as a controller and includes a processor and memory. The control circuit is configured to implement the methods described below or each of the methods described below.

[0170] When device 10 is used, air is drawn into the air inlet of the aerosol generator 13, as indicated by arrow 16. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 13 exits the device at the air outlet (for example, into the user's mouth), as indicated by arrow 17.

[0171] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device 10 comprises two main components: a control unit 2 (which may be called a reusable component) and a consumable component 4 (which may be called a replaceable or disposable cartridge). When using the aerosol generating device 10, the control unit 2 and the consumable component 4 may be releasably connected at an interface 6. The consumable component 4 may be removable and replaceable (for example, when a consumable component is used), and the control unit 2 may be reused with another consumable component.

[0172] The aerosol generating device 10, also called an aerosol supply system, comprises a control unit 2, which may also be called the aerosol supply device 10, and a consumable part 4, which may also be called an article 4.

[0173] The aerosol generator 13 forms part of article 4. The aerosol generator 13 includes a resistance heating arrangement configured to heat at least one of an aerosol generating material, such as a film or a gel, in order to generate an aerosol.

[0174] In the embodiment, the heating element or each heating element is a resistive heating element, as will be described in detail below. In such an arrangement, the system comprises a resistive heating generator which includes components for heating the heating arrangement via a resistive heating process. In this case, a current is applied directly to the resistive heating element, which acts as a heating component, and the resulting current flow within the heating element heats the heating element by Joule heating. The resistive heating element includes a resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable current passes through the resistive heating element, and the heating arrangement includes electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistive material. The provision of a resistive heating component allows for a compact arrangement. The resistive heating arrangement provides an efficient configuration. The resistive heating arrangement is space-efficient and energy-efficient.

[0175] A "part" is sometimes called a "component." A "component" is sometimes called a "part." Consumable parts are sometimes called replaceable or disposable items.

[0176] Of course, the aerosol generating device 10 is provided merely as an example and is highly schematic. Many alternative aerosol generating devices and other devices may be used in exemplary implementations of the principles described herein. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, air is drawn into the air inlet of the control unit 2, passes through the interface 6, and exits from the consumable parts 4.

[0177] The aerosol generator 13 is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, also known as an aerosolizable material, during operation of the aerosol supply system, as will be described in detail below. The aerosol supply system 10 is elongated and extends along its longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply system 10 has a proximal end that is closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when used by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply system 10, and a distal end that is furthest from the user when used. The proximal end may also be called the “mouthpiece end”. Thus, the aerosol supply system 10 also defines a proximal direction that is directed toward the user when used. Furthermore, the aerosol supply system 10 also defines a distal direction that is directed away from the user when used. The terms “proximal” and “distal” applied to the features of the system 10 are explained by referring to the relative positioning of such features relative to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0178] In this embodiment, the aerosol generator 13 may be fully or partially inserted into the aerosol supply device 10. The configuration of the aerosol supply device 10 may vary; for example, the opening may be located on the longitudinal side wall of the aerosol supply device 10 and / or may be closed by another feature of the aerosol supply device 10 during use. In this configuration, article 4 defines a mouthpiece at its proximal end. In this embodiment, the aerosol supply device 10 defines a mouthpiece. The user places their mouth over the mouthpiece during use.

[0179] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generator, collectively denoted by reference numeral 20, according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generator 20 is an exemplary implementation of the aerosol generator 13 of the aerosol generation device 10 described above.

[0180] The aerosol generator 20 includes an aerosolizable layer 22 (incorporating an aerosolizable material) and a conductive layer 24 in contact with the aerosolizable layer. As will be described in detail below, the conductive layer 24 is formed on one or more heating elements, each heating element providing a conductive path for resistance heating of a portion of the aerosolizable material in the aerosolizable layer 22 to generate an aerosol. The aerosolizable material may be, for example, in the form of a film or a gel.

[0181] The aerosolizable layer 22, also called the aerosol-generating layer 22, contains an aerosolizable material, which is also known as an aerosol-generating material.

[0182] The conductive layer 24 is formed as a resistive heating layer. The resistive heating layer contains a material that can be resistively heated in response to an electric current passing through it.

[0183] The aerosol generator 20 includes a resistance heating layer 24. The aerosol generating layer 22 is located on the resistance heating layer 24. The aerosol generating layer 22 is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer 24. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 22 is in indirect contact with the resistance heating layer 24. In some embodiments, the resistance heating layer 24 may include a coating. The coating of the resistance heating layer 24 may be on a conductive material.

[0184] The conductive layer 24 may take the form of an aluminum layer or a metal layer made of a non-metallic material (such as graphene). The conductive layer may also take the form of a foil (for example, aluminum foil).

[0185] The aerosol generator 20 is configured to generate aerosols from aerosol-generating material when the aerosol supply system 10 is in operation, as will be described in detail below.

[0186] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generator, generally denoted by reference numeral 30, according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generator 30 is an exemplary implementation of the aerosol generator 13 described above.

[0187] The aerosol generator 30 includes the aerosolizable layer 22 and the conductive layer 24 described above. The aerosol generator 30 further includes a support (or substrate) 32. The support 32 may include paper or card material that provides structural support for the aerosol generator 30. As shown in Figure 3, in the aerosol generator 30, the conductive layer 24 is sandwiched between the support 32 and the aerosolizable layer 22.

[0188] In this embodiment, a conductive layer, also called a resistance heating layer 24, is located on a support 32. The support 32 is configured as a support layer. The support 32 is electrically insulating. The resistance heating layer 24 and the support layer 32 define the substrate. The substrate 32 supports the aerosol generating layer 22.

[0189] In the embodiment, the aerosol generator 30 includes a laminate comprising a resistance heating layer 24 and a support layer 32. In the embodiment, the laminate includes an aerosol generating layer 22. The aerosol generating layer 22 may be formed as a continuous structure or from separate parts. The separate parts may include one or more of dots, strips, helices, or other shapes. In the embodiment, the separate parts are aligned with the resistance heating element.

[0190] One or more of the aerosol generation layer 22, the resistance heating layer 24, and the support layer 32 may include further layers. For example, the support layer 32 may include a backing layer or an intermediate layer. The support layer 32 is omitted in this embodiment.

[0191] The aerosol generator 30 or each aerosol generator is formed in a stacked configuration. In embodiments, other arrangements are envisioned, such as a tubular arrangement of articles. In such a tubular arrangement, the aerosol generator 30 defines a tubular configuration. The tubular shape may include a circular cross-section and other polygonal shapes.

[0192] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, article 30 has a flat configuration. That is, the exterior of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to both the length and the width, where the length is greater than or equal to the width, and the width is greater than the depth. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0193] Figure 4 shows a heating element, generally denoted by reference numeral 40, according to an exemplary embodiment. One or more heating elements 40 may be formed by the conductive layer 24 described above.

[0194] The heating element 40 includes a non-linear conductive path between a first electrical connection 42 and a second electrical connector 43. In some exemplary embodiments, the first electrical connection 42 provides a positive connection and the second electrical connection 43 provides a negative connection so that current flows through the path between the electrical connections. The winding or meandering nature of the path in the heating element 40 is such that the electrical resistance of the path increases compared to a straight path between the first and second electrical connectors.

[0195] The conductive path defines the resistive heating path. The resistive heating path is formed by the conductive path. The resistive heating path is nonlinear. The resistive heating path is spiral. The configuration of the resistive heating path may vary. The electrical resistance of the heating element 40 may depend on the properties of the resistive heating path in the conductive layer, such as the length, width, thickness, and arrangement of the path. The electrical resistance of the resistive heating path may also depend on the material in which the resistive heating path is formed.

[0196] The first and second electrical connections may be referred to as the first type of electrical contact 42 (or first type of electrical contact) and the second type of electrical contact 43 (or second type of electrical contact), respectively. The contact arrangement may be reversed. The first and second types of electrical contacts define the heater electrical contacts. The first and second types of electrical contacts 42 and 43 form at least part of the electrical contact configuration of the article.

[0197] As will be described in detail below, the conductive paths of the heating element 40 may be created by forming tracks within the heating element, for example, by cutting tracks into the conductive layer constituting the heating element. In some exemplary embodiments, the tracks may have a width of 0.5 mm to 1 mm (two exemplary prototypes have widths of 0.93 mm and 0.72 mm, respectively) and gaps between tracks of less than approximately 0.25 mm (the same two exemplary prototypes have gaps of 0.2 mm and 0.05 mm, respectively). The heating element may have overall dimensions of approximately 10 mm × 10 mm. Of course, other dimensions are possible in other exemplary embodiments. By forming heating elements of these dimensions from aluminum foil with a thickness of 0.006 mm and an electrical resistivity of 2 to 6 μ-ohmcm, the resistance of the paths was calculated to be approximately 1 ohm. In one exemplary embodiment, the resistance was measured between 0.83 and 1.31 ohms.

[0198] The resistance heating layer includes a plurality of resistance heating elements 40. The plurality of heating elements 40 are formed in an array as shown in Figure 5. The array of heating elements may be arranged in a single row. The array of heating elements may be arranged in a single row along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator. The array of heating elements may be arranged in a single row traversing the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0199] The resistive heating layer 24 includes a first type of electrical track 44 extending from the resistive heating element 40. The first type of electrical track 44 includes a first type of electrical contact 42. The first type of electrical contact 42 is configured to electrically connect to the device's electrical connector. The first type of electrical contact 42 includes a first type of exposed contact area. The first type of exposed contact area is exposed on the article for direct connection to the device's electrical connector.

[0200] The resistance heating layer 24 includes a second type of electrical track 45 extending from the resistance heating element 40. The second type of electrical track 45 includes a second type of electrical contact 43. The second type of electrical contact 43 is configured to electrically connect to the electrical connector of the device. The second type of electrical contact 43 includes a second type of exposed contact area. The second type of exposed contact area is exposed on the article for direct connection to the electrical connector of the device.

[0201] In the embodiment, the conductive path of the heating element is created by defining at least one electrical insulating barrier within the resistive heating layer 24. In the embodiment, the electrical insulating barrier is formed by cutting conductive limitations (i.e., electrical insulating portions), such as gaps, channels, or slots, into a sheet formed of a conductive material to form the resistive heating layer 24. In the embodiment, the resistive heating layer 24 is pre-formed to define the resistive heating element 40 or each resistive heating element 40, and then applied to the support 32. In the embodiment, the resistive heating layer 24 is applied to the support 32, and then the resistive heating element 40 or each resistive heating element 40 is defined within the resistive heating layer 24. The resistive heating element 40 or each resistive heating element 40 defining the resistive heating layer 24 may be a printed heater. At least one electrical insulating barrier defines first and second types of electrical tracks. The electrical insulating barrier defines a barrier against electrical conduction across the barrier.

[0202] The insulating barrier may be an air gap. In this embodiment, the insulating barrier is, for example, a filled gap filled with an insulating material. The barrier defines a barrier against electrical conduction across the barrier.

[0203] The resistance heating elements defining the resistance heating layer, or each resistance heating element, may be formed by a cutting operation. Cutting may include die cutting. The resistance heating elements may be formed by an action applied only to the resistance heating layer. In embodiments, the resistance heating elements may be formed by an action applied to both the resistance heating layer and the support layer, for example, by an action that cuts the resistance heating layer and the support layer.

[0204] Figure 5 shows a conductive layer, generally denoted by reference numeral 50, according to an exemplary embodiment. The conductive layer 50 is an exemplary mounting configuration of the heating element 24 of the aerosol generator 20 or 30 described above.

[0205] The conductive layer 50 is formed on a plurality of heating elements, which are collectively indicated by reference numerals 51 to 55. Each of the heating elements 51 to 55 extends from a first type of electrical connection (connections 56a to 56e, respectively) to a second type of electrical connection (connection 58).

[0206] The number of electrical connections, which may also be called electrical contacts, may vary. Thus, each resistive heating element 51-55 extends between a first type of individual electrical contacts 56a-56e and a second type of common electrical contact 58.

[0207] When layer 50 is used as a heating element 24 of an aerosol generator 20 or 30, each of the heating elements 51 to 55 provides a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosolizable material of the support 22 in order to generate an aerosol in each portion of the support.

[0208] The first type of separate electrical connections 56a to 56e allow current to be supplied individually to each of the multiple heating elements 51 to 55. Thus, heating of different zones of the aerosolizable material can be controlled. For example, the aerosol generator may have five aerosol generating zones. Layer 50 allows each of these zones to be activated separately. Thus, for example, five aerosol puffs may be generated from a single consumable incorporating the heating elements 51 to 55.

[0209] Therefore, for example, five aerosol puffs may be produced from a single consumable incorporating a single aerosol generator 20 or 30, or ten aerosol puffs may be produced from a single consumable incorporating two aerosol generators 20 or 30.

[0210] In the example conductive layer 50, a plurality of electrical connections of a first type 56a to 56e (e.g., positive electrical connections) and a single connection of a second type 58 (e.g., negative electrical connection) are provided. This is not essential for all implementation configurations. For example, a plurality of connections of the second type may be provided.

[0211] In the embodiment, each resistance heating element 51 to 55 includes a corresponding first type of electrical contact 42 and a corresponding second type of electrical contact 43.

[0212] In the exemplary conductive layer 50, the first type of electrical connection is located at the first edge of the conductive layer, and the second type of electrical connection is located at the second edge of the conductive layer. This may allow for convenient power connections, but of course, many other configurations are possible, some of which will be described further below.

[0213] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an exemplary embodiment of the algorithm, collectively denoted by reference numeral 60.

[0214] Algorithm 60 begins with operation 62 in which a conductive layer is formed on one or more heating elements (e.g., multiple heating elements), each heating element extending from a first type of electrical connection to a second type of electrical connection. When in use, the heating elements or each heating element may be used to provide a conductive path for resistance heating of a portion of the aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol.

[0215] The formation of the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element may be performed before or after coating the resistance heating layer onto the support, if a support is present. The resistance heating layer may be bonded to the support, or mounted or formed on the support in a different configuration.

[0216] In operation 64, the formed conductive layer is positioned to be in contact with the aerosolizable layer, and the aerosolizable layer incorporates the aerosolizable material.

[0217] In other words, in operation 64, at least one of the formed resistance heating layer and aerosol generating layer is arranged to be in contact with other components, and the aerosol generating layer incorporates an aerosol generating material. In addition, or alternatively, the aerosol generating layer is formed on the resistance heating layer.

[0218] Therefore, the aerosol generator 20 described above can be manufactured using algorithm 60 (for example, by incorporating the conductive layer 50).

[0219] Figure 7 shows an aerosol generator, generally denoted by reference numeral 70, formed according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generator 70 includes a conductive layer 72 and an aerosolizable layer 74 incorporating an aerosolizable material. The aerosolizable material may be formed on the layer 74, for example, by depositing the aerosolizable material, such as by spraying, painting, dispensing or some other method.

[0220] In an exemplary implementation of operation 62 of the algorithm 60 described above, the conductive layer 72 is formed on multiple heating elements. The conductive layer 72 may be, for example, the conductive layer 50 described above.

[0221] In an exemplary implementation of operation 64 of algorithm 60, the conductive layer 72 and the aerosolizable layer 74 are arranged to be in contact with each other (as indicated by arrow 76).

[0222] Figure 8 shows a conductive layer 80 formed according to an exemplary embodiment. The conductive layer 80 is cut using a laser cutter 82. Cutting of the conductive layer 80 can be used to form a path for the heating element described herein.

[0223] The use of a laser cutter 82 (or any other cutting process) is not the only way to produce the conductive layer described herein. Several exemplary methods are described below.

[0224] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the algorithm as a whole, shown as reference number 90, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0225] Algorithm 90 begins with operation 92, in which a conductive layer is provided. In operation 94, one or more heating elements are formed within the conductive layer by chemical etching of the conductive layer. Operations 92 and 94 are exemplary implementations of operation 62 of algorithm 60 described above. The conductive layer is then positioned in contact with the aerosolizable layer, thereby implementing operation 64 described above.

[0226] The flowchart in Figure 9 may also be referred to as illustrating a part of the method for forming the aerosol generators 20, 30, 70, or algorithms. In embodiments, the method or algorithm 90 begins with operation 92, in which a resistance heating layer is provided. In operation 94, one or more resistance heating elements are formed within the resistance heating layer by chemical etching of the resistance heating layer. Operations 92 and 94 are exemplary implementations of operation 62 of the method 60 described above. An aerosol generating material is then placed on the resistance heating layer, thereby implementing operation 64 described above.

[0227] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the algorithm, shown as a whole with reference number 100, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0228] Algorithm 100 begins with operation 102, in which a heating element is formed by printing a partially conductive layer at the end. Thus, operation 102 is an exemplary implementation of operation 62 of algorithm 62 described above. Next, the conductive layer is positioned in contact with the aerosolizable layer, thereby implementing operation 64 described above.

[0229] The flowchart in Figure 10 may also be referred to as illustrating a part of a method for forming aerosol generators 20, 30, and 70, which are collectively indicated by reference numeral 100. The method or algorithm 100 begins with operation 102, in which one or more heating elements are formed, last in part, by printing a resistance heating layer. Thus, operation 102 is an exemplary implementation of operation 62 of algorithm 60 described above. Next, the aerosol generating material is placed on the resistance heating layer, thereby implementing operation 64 described above.

[0230] The cutting, etching, and printing methods described above are provided as examples, and alternative methods are also possible. For example, a so-called "hot foil" approach can be used, in which a heating element is fabricated from a conductive layer and then assembled / bonded onto a substrate. Further techniques such as die cutting can also be used. In addition, two or more techniques can be combined (for example, the conductivity of the connection trace can be increased by adding highly conductive materials such as additional foil or printing material). Those skilled in the art will recognize many further techniques or combinations of techniques that can be used in implementations of the principles described herein.

[0231] In the embodiment, the resistance heating layer and the support may be cut together. The resistance heating layer may be bonded to the support before forming the resistance heating element. The support may be cut together with the resistance heating layer. The support and the resistance heating layer may be aligned. The support and the resistance heating layer may be cut to the same shape. The support and the resistance heating layer may be formed to the same shape. The support and the resistance heating layer may be cut together using die cutting.

[0232] Figure 11 is a flowchart of the algorithm, collectively denoted by reference numeral 110, according to an exemplary embodiment. The algorithm 110 may be implemented, for example, using one of the aerosol generators described herein.

[0233] Algorithm 110 is started when a command to initiate heating is received in an instance of operation 112. In response to the command to initiate heating, a determination is made (in operation 114) as to whether a heating element is available. As described above, multiple heating elements may be provided. Operation 114 may also include determining which heating element has been used (and whether the corresponding available aerosolizable material has been exhausted).

[0234] If heating elements are available, the algorithm proceeds to operation 116 in which the available heating elements are used. As described above, the heating elements may be individually controllable, for example, by supplying power to individual heating elements. Once operation 116 is complete, the algorithm terminates in operation 118.

[0235] If, in operation 114, it is determined that a heating element is unavailable (for example, because all heating elements are in use), the algorithm terminates in operation 118. This may mean that the consumable parts used to implement algorithm 110 need to be replaced.

[0236] In the exemplary embodiments described above, the heating element includes a non-linear conductive path between the first electrical connection 42 and the second electrical connector 43 (e.g., a winding or meandering path). This is not essential in all exemplary embodiments. Several alternative configurations are described below as examples.

[0237] Figure 12 shows a conductive layer 120 formed according to an exemplary embodiment. The conductive layer 120 is cut using a laser cutter 122 (similar to the laser cutter 82 described above), but other methods can be used (such as chemical etching or printing, as described above). Cutting of the conductive layer 120 forms a path for the heating element described herein.

[0238] The path cut by the laser cutter 122 is a linear path that extends along the length of the conductive layer 120.

[0239] Figure 13 shows a conductive layer, generally denoted by reference numeral 130, according to an exemplary embodiment. The conductive layer 130 may be formed using the laser cutter 122 described above or some similar device.

[0240] The conductive layer 130 comprises a plurality of heating elements, each of which is a linear heating element with a conductive path extending along the length of the support. Each heating element extends from a first type of electrical connection (e.g., a positive electrical connection) to a second type of electrical connection (e.g., a negative electrical connection). In the exemplary layer 130, both types of electrical connections are located at the same end of the layer and adjacent to each other. Thus, instead of a winding path, the exemplary path of layer 130 extends from one end of the layer to the other and back to the other end of the layer. Note that, as in some other exemplary embodiments, there is no common second connection. Instead, each heating element has separate first and second electrical connections.

[0241] Figure 14 shows a conductive layer, generally denoted by reference numeral 140, according to an exemplary embodiment. The conductive layer 140 may be formed using the laser cutter 122 described above or some similar device.

[0242] In other words, the resistance heating layer 80 may be formed using the laser cutter 82 described above, or some similar device or another method. Each resistance heating element extends from a first type of electrical contact, e.g., one of the positive electrical contacts, to a second type of electrical contact, e.g., a negative electrical contact.

[0243] The conductive layer 140 comprises a plurality of heating elements, each of which is a linear heating element having a conductive path extending along the length of the support. Each heating element extends from a first type of electrical connection (e.g., a positive electrical connection) to a second type of electrical connection (e.g., a negative electrical connection). In the exemplary layer 140, the electrical connection types are provided at both ends of the layer, and a common second (negative) connection is provided. A linear path (rather than a winding path) is provided, but electrical resistance is provided by providing a notched path. Note that the paths of any other embodiments described herein may also be notched.

[0244] Figure 15 shows a portion of an aerosol generator 150 according to an exemplary embodiment. As described above, the aerosol generator 150 may include a conductive layer having a plurality of electrical connections of a first type (e.g., providing positive electrical connections to each of a plurality of heating elements) and a single electrical connection of a second type (e.g., providing a common negative electrical connection to a plurality of heating elements).

[0245] In other words, article 300 has an article electrical contact configuration. In the embodiment, the electrical contact configuration is formed by the aerosol generator 150. The electrical contact configuration includes heater electrical contacts 152, 154. The heater electrical contacts may also be known as heater or article contacts 152, 154. The aerosol supply device includes an electrical connector 160 as shown in Figure 16. The electrical connector includes connector electrical contacts. The connector electrical contacts may also be known as connector contacts or device contacts. The article electrical contact configuration is configured to communicate electrically with the device electrical connector 160.

[0246] The first and second types of electrical contacts 42 and 43, namely heater contacts, together form at least a portion of the article electrical contact configuration of the aerosol generators 20, 30, and 70.

[0247] The resistive heating element 40 is located on the inner surface of the resistive heating layer 80. The inner surface defines the first side of the aerosol generator 150. The heater contacts 42 and 43 are located on the second side of the resistive heating layer 80. The second side defines the outer surface of the aerosol generator 150. The heater contacts are exposed so that they can contact the device electrical connector. The heater contacts are located on the opposite side of the resistive heating layer 80 from the resistive heating element. Other configurations are also possible.

[0248] The support layer 32 is located between the inner portion and the outer portion of the resistance heating layer 80.

[0249] The aerosol generator 150 includes a plurality of external connectors, the configuration of which depends on the first and second types of configurations of the electrical connections of the aerosol generator. For example, the aerosol generator shown in Figure 15 includes a plurality of external connectors indicated by reference numeral 152 (each connected to one of the first type of electrical connections) and a further external connector 154 (connected to a second type of electrical connection). The aerosol generator 150 may have further external connectors corresponding to connectors 152 and 154 on the underside of the device (not visible in Figure 15).

[0250] Figure 16 shows a connector 160 used in several exemplary embodiments. The connector has separate pins for connecting to electrical contacts such as the connectors 152 and 154 described above.

[0251] The configuration of article 300 may vary. Article 300 comprises a body 302. The body 302 may be hollow. The body 302 may define a flow path through article 300. The flow path extends between an air inlet and an aerosol outlet. The flow path is defined by an internal space within the article through which air and / or aerosol can flow. The flow path is defined within the body 302. The aerosol generator 150 or each aerosol generator boundaries the flow path. The aerosol generating material is exposed to the flow path. The aerosol generating material is exposed to the internal space. In embodiments, the internal space comprises two or more chambers.

[0252] Figure 15 shows the distal end of article 300. As shown, the body 302 includes a plurality of body layers. The body layers are arranged in a stack of body layers 304. The body layers form a laminate. In this embodiment, the body layers are card layers. Other suitable materials may be used. The body layers 304 are configured to define the features of article 300. In this embodiment, at least one body layer includes a gap that defines an air inlet. The gap defines an opening 306.

[0253] The air inlet includes an opening 306. The opening is formed within the main body 302. In embodiments, the opening 306 is formed within another component of the article 300, for example, an aerosol generator 150 or another wall mechanism. The aerosol outlet includes an outlet opening. The outlet opening is formed within the main body 302. In embodiments, the outlet opening is formed within another component of the article 300, for example, an aerosol generator 150 or another wall mechanism.

[0254] In one embodiment, article 300 may comprise two aerosol generators 150 that form an aerosol generator arrangement. The number of aerosol generators 150 may vary. Each aerosol generator 150 contains an aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material is exposed in the flow path. In another embodiment, article 300 comprises a single aerosol generator 150.

[0255] Figure 17 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device, collectively denoted by reference numeral 170, according to an exemplary embodiment. The system comprises the aerosol generator 150 described above, first and second connectors 160a and 160b (similar to connector 160 described above), and a control unit 172.

[0256] The control unit 172 is similar to the control unit 2 of the aerosol generating device 10 described above with reference to Figure 1. The aerosol generator 150 is similar to the consumable part 4 of the aerosol generating device 10. Connectors 160a and 160b allow the control unit 172 to supply adjusted or controlled voltage and / or current to various first and second types of electrical connections of the aerosol generator 150 when the aerosol generator 150 is inserted into the control unit 172 (as shown in Figure 17). The control unit 172 may include a connector arrangement configured to supply power to connectors 160a and 160b (and thus to the conductive layer of the aerosol generator). The control unit 172 may implement, for example, the algorithm 110 described above.

[0257] The control unit 172 is sometimes called a non-combustion aerosol generating device. The aerosol generator 150 is sometimes called an "item" or "consumable."

[0258] In this embodiment, article 300 may be received by an aerosol supply device 170. The configuration of article 300 and the aerosol supply device 170 may be varied.

[0259] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an exemplary embodiment of the algorithm, collectively denoted by reference numeral 180.

[0260] Algorithm 180 begins with operation 181, in which a conductive layer is formed on one or more heating elements, and the heating elements or each heating element provides a conductive path for resistance heating of a portion of the aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol. Exemplary heating elements that may be formed in operation 181 are described in detail elsewhere in this specification.

[0261] In operation 182, the formed conductive layer is positioned to be in contact with the aerosolizable layer, and the aerosolizable layer incorporates the aerosolizable material.

[0262] Operations 181 and 182 of algorithm 180 are the same as (or may be identical to) operations 62 and 64 of algorithm 60 described above.

[0263] In operation 183, one or more electrical connections of a first type (e.g., positive connections) are provided along a first edge of the conductive layer. In operation 184, one or more electrical connections of a second type (e.g., negative connections) are provided along a second edge of the conductive layer. The heating element or each heating element extends from the first type of electrical connection to the second type of electrical connection. Of course, operations 183 and 184 can be performed in different orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, operations 183 and 184 can be performed together with operation 181.

[0264] In other words, in operation 183, at least one first type of electrical contact is provided on the resistance heating layer. The method of formation may be any of the methods described above. In operation 184, at least one second type of electrical contact is provided on the resistance heating layer. The method of formation may be any of the methods described above.

[0265] In the embodiment, the first and second types of electrical contacts are formed along a single edge of the resistance heating layer, or near a single edge. In the embodiment, the first and second types of electrical contacts are formed along different edges of the resistance heating layer, or near different edges.

[0266] In operation 185, the conductive layer and the aerosolizable layer are folded so that the first and second types of electrical connections are adjacent to each other, as will be described in detail below.

[0267] In this embodiment, the support layer is folded together with the resistance heating layer.

[0268] Figures 19 to 21 show an aerosol generator formed according to algorithm 180, based on an exemplary embodiment.

[0269] Figure 19 shows a conductive layer 190 of an aerosol generator formed according to an exemplary embodiment. The conductive layer 190 is cut using a laser cutter 192.

[0270] As shown in Figure 19, conductivity is later formed on the multiple heating elements 193. Multiple electrical connections 194 of the first type (e.g., positive electrical connections) are provided along the first edge of the conductive layer (one connection is shown for each heating element). Electrical connections 195 of the second type are provided along the second edge of the conductive layer. As described above, each of the multiple heating elements extends from the first type of electrical connection to the second type of electrical connection.

[0271] Cutting the conductive layer 190 with the laser cutter 192 forms a path for the heating element 193. As described above, the use of the laser cutter 192 (or any other cutting process) is not the only way in which the conductive layer described above can be produced. Several exemplary alternative methods include chemical etching and printing.

[0272] As shown in Figure 20, the aerosolizable layer 200 is provided in contact with the conductive layer 190, and the aerosolizable layer incorporates the aerosolizable material. The aerosol generator (including the conductive layer 190 and the aerosolizable layer 200) is then folded as indicated by the arrows in Figure 20.

[0273] In this embodiment, the folds are formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generator. Two folds are formed. A first panel containing a heating element 193 is defined. A second panel containing a first type 194 of multiple electrical contacts is formed. A third panel containing a second type 195 of electrical contacts is formed. The aerosol generating layer 200 is located on the first panel. In this embodiment, a single fold is formed in the aerosol generator.

[0274] In some embodiments, a support layer 32 is used, and the support layer 32 in the embodiment is folded. The substrate is folded at the fold. In embodiments, the support layer 32 terminates at the fold. In embodiments, the fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 150. In embodiments, the support layer 32 does not have a fold. Figure 21 shows a folded aerosol generator indicated by reference numeral 210.

[0275] In this embodiment, the folded portion of the resistance heating layer 190 is mounted in its folded position. This folded portion in this embodiment is bonded, for example, by a joint. Other fastening means are anticipated.

[0276] In this embodiment, the fold defines a first type of exposed contact area. The fold defines a second type of exposed contact area. The electric track is electrically connected across the fold. The heater contacts of the first and second types of electric tracks are defined on the second side surface of the resistance heating layer 190. Parts of the first and second types of electric tracks extend onto the first side surface of the resistance heating layer 190. In this embodiment, the resistance heating element extends from the fold. Other configurations are also possible.

[0277] Article 300 includes another set of heater contacts on the opposite side of article 300 to the second aerosol generator 150.

[0278] A pre-folded configuration defines a blank for forming the aerosol generator 150. In this embodiment, the blank defines fold lines along which folds are made during the formation of the aerosol generator. The aerosol generator 150 blank includes a resistance heating layer 190 and a support layer 32. The resistance heating layer 190 and the support layer 32 define a panel defined by the fold lines.

[0279] Figure 22 is a side view of the aerosol generator, which is generally indicated by reference numeral 220. The aerosol generator 220 may be the aerosol generator 210 described above.

[0280] The aerosol generator includes an aerosolizable layer 222 containing an aerosolizable material, a first electrical connection 224 (only one of which is visible), and a second electrical connection 225. The first and second electrical connections may be a positive connection and a negative connection, respectively. The aerosolizable layer 222 may be the aerosolizable layer 200 described above. The connections 224 and 225 may be the connections 194 and 195 described above.

[0281] The aerosol generator 220 may be formed by folding the conductive layer 190 described above so that the first and second types of electrical connections are provided adjacent to each other. In some use cases, this may simplify the supply of power to the aerosol generator.

[0282] FIG. 23 is a schematic plan view of a non-combustible aerosol generation device generally indicated by reference numeral 230 according to an exemplary embodiment. The device 230 is configured to receive an aerosol generator, an article or a consumable (such as the aerosol generator 220 described above). The device 230 is an example of the control unit 2 of the aerosol generation device 10 described above.

[0283] The non-combustible aerosol generation device 230 includes a connector arrangement configured to supply power to the first and second types (e.g., positive and negative connections) of connections of the aerosol generator. For example, the connector arrangement of the device 230 includes a plurality of first connections 232 for supplying power to the first type of connection and a single connection 234 for supplying power to the second type of connection.

[0284] Referring to Figure 24, for example, an embodiment of an aerosol generator including a single fold is shown. The fold is defined by a fold line 198. The fold 198 is formed in the conductive layer 190. The fold defines the heater contacts 193 on the first panel 196. The fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator. The fold 198 defines the second panel 197. The heater contacts 194 and 195 are located on the second panel 197. The second panel 197 defines the contact panel. The remaining blank portion defines the first panel 196. The fold line 198 in the embodiment is predetermined. The fold line extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, but other arrangements are also possible. The fold line is linear. The second panel 197 includes a first type 194 of multiple electrical contacts and a second type 195 of contacts. As shown, there is a single second type 195 of electrical contacts. In this embodiment, there are multiple second type 195 of electrical contacts. As shown, each of the multiple first type 194 of multiple electrical contacts and the second type 195 of contacts is on the second panel 197. In this embodiment, at least one of the multiple first type 194 of multiple electrical contacts and the second type 195 of contacts is on the first panel 197. The second panel defines the electrical contact area. In this embodiment, there is a single electrical contact area. By utilizing a single fold, it may be easier to align the article contacts with the device contacts. Manufacturing of the device and article may also be easier because tolerance accumulation may be reduced.

[0285] In some embodiments of the aerosol generators and different arrangements of articles described above, the aerosol-generating material is formed in a configuration other than as an aerosol-generating layer. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of an aerosol-generating segment. The aerosol-generating segment generally comprises a solid material. Such a solid may be shredded tobacco. For example, the aerosol-generating material arranged as an aerosol-generating segment may comprise multiple individual pieces of aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may also comprise individual pieces of tobacco material. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises multiple strips, beads, or pellets. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment is a plug of material.

[0286] In the embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment includes a material body. The aerosol-generating material is non-liquid. In such embodiments, the material body includes a rod of the aerosol-generating material, for example, a tobacco rod. For example, the material body may include shredded tobacco material. The material body may be formed into a rod. In some embodiments, the material body includes cut rag tobacco formed into a rod. The aerosol-generating material may include tobacco material. The aerosol-generating material may include extruded tobacco. The aerosol-generating material may include reconstituted tobacco.

[0287] The aerosol-generating material, formed as a solid material, may contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may contain tobacco, be made from tobacco, or be essentially made from tobacco. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain tobacco.

[0288] In any of the embodiments described above, heating the article provides a relatively constant release of volatile compounds into an inhalable medium. In one embodiment described above, the aerosol-generating segment is a plug of material. The article may have a mouthpiece end. A tubular element may be positioned between the aerosol-generating material and the mouthpiece end. The article may have a ventilation area at the mouthpiece end. The mouthpiece end may define a mouthpiece configured to be positioned between the user's lips.

[0289] In any embodiment of the article described above, the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating segment in the embodiment is at least substantially cylindrical. In the embodiment, the aerosol-generating segment is at least partially enclosed by the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element extends within the aerosol-generating segment. The resistance heating element may extend around the aerosol-generating segment. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol-generating segment. In some arrangements, at least a portion of the flow path through the article passes through the aerosol-generating segment. The aerosol-generating segment may define a portion of the air path. In the embodiment, a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact are exposed from the aerosol-generating segment.

[0290] The aerosol-generating material may include the tobacco material described herein, which contains tobacco components. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco components may include paper-reconstructed tobacco. The tobacco components may also include loose-leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and / or band-cast tobacco. The tobacco material may be provided in the form of cut rag tobacco. Cut rag tobacco can be formed from a mixture of forms of tobacco material, for example, a mixture of one or more of paper-reconstructed tobacco, loose-leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and band-cast tobacco. In embodiments, the tobacco material includes paper-reconstructed tobacco, or a mixture of paper-reconstructed tobacco and loose-leaf tobacco. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco material may contain filler components. Filler components are generally components that do not contain non-tobacco components, i.e., raw materials derived from tobacco. Filler components may be non-tobacco fibers such as wood fibers or pulp or wheat fibers. Filler components may also be inorganic materials such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, and magnesium carbonate. Filler components may also be non-tobacco cast materials or non-tobacco extruded materials. The filler component may be present in an amount of 0% to 20% by weight of the tobacco material, or in an amount of 1% to 10% by weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the filler component is absent. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco material contains an aerosol-forming agent material. In this context, “aerosol-forming agent material” is an agent that promotes aerosol formation. The aerosol-forming agent material may promote aerosol formation by promoting the initial vaporization and / or condensation of gas into inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosols. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming agent material may improve the delivery of flavor from the aerosol-forming material. In general, any suitable aerosol-forming agent material, including those described herein, may be included in the aerosol-forming material of the present invention.

[0291] Paper-reconstructed tobacco refers to tobacco material formed by a process in which tobacco raw materials are extracted with a solvent to obtain an extract of soluble substances and a residue containing fibrous material, and then the extract (usually after concentration and optionally after further processing) is recombined with fibrous material from the residue (usually after purification of the fibrous material and optionally with the addition of some non-tobacco fibers) by depositing the extract onto the fibrous material. The recombination process is similar to the process of making paper.

[0292] 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 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 may be used and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or essentially consist of, appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol generator for an aerosol supply device, Aerosol generating materials and A resistance heating layer comprising a plurality of resistance heating elements, each of which is configured to heat a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating material is located on the resistance heating layer, and the layer comprises a resistance heating layer An aerosol generator in which each of the plurality of resistance heating elements extends between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, comprising an aerosol generating layer incorporating the aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol generating layer is located on the resistance heating layer.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the electrical contacts enable current to be supplied individually to each of the plurality of heating elements.

4. An aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a plurality of electrical contacts of the first type.

5. The aerosol generator according to claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of resistance heating elements has a separate electrical contact of the first type.

6. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the electrical contact includes a single electrical contact of the second type.

7. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second type of single contact is shared among each of the plurality of heating elements.

8. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a plurality of electrical contacts of the second type, wherein each of the heating elements has a separate electrical contact of the second type.

9. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the resistance heating layer defines the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact.

10. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first type of electrical contact is arranged on a first side surface of the region of the resistance heating layer on which the heating element is provided, and the second type of electrical contact is arranged on a second side surface of the region of the resistance heating layer on which the heating element is provided.

11. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are arranged on one side of the region of the resistance heating layer on which the heating element is provided.

12. An aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a first surface and a second surface different from the first surface, wherein the aerosol generating material is exposed on the first surface and at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact is exposed on the second surface.

13. An aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a support.

14. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the resistance heating layer is in the form of a foil.

15. Each of the aforementioned plurality of resistance heating elements is Cutting the aforementioned resistance heating layer, Chemically etching the aforementioned resistance heating layer, Forming or press-forming the aforementioned resistance heating layer within the support, Printing the aforementioned resistance heating layer, An aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 14, formed by at least one of the following.

16. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the aerosol generating material comprises a film or gel layer containing the aerosol generating material.

17. an aerosolizable layer incorporating an aerosolizable material, A conductive layer in contact with the aerosolizable layer, wherein the conductive layer is formed on a plurality of heating elements, and each heating element provides a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol in each portion of the aerosolizable layer, An aerosol generator in which each of the aforementioned heating elements extends from a first type of electrical connection to a second type of electrical connection.

18. A blank for forming an aerosol generator for an aerosol supply device, Includes a resistance heating layer containing multiple resistance heating elements, Each of the plurality of heating elements is a blank extending between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact defined by the resistance heating layer.

19. A method for forming an aerosol generator for an article used in an aerosol supply device, A step of forming a resistance heating layer comprising a plurality of heating elements, wherein each of the plurality of heating elements provides a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, The step of forming an aerosol generating layer containing the aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol generating layer is provided on the resistance heating layer, A method wherein each of the heating elements extends between a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

20. It is a method, The steps include forming a conductive layer within a plurality of heating elements, each heating element providing a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol, The step of arranging the formed conductive layer in contact with the aerosolizable layer, the step of arranging the aerosolizable layer to incorporate the aerosolizable material, A method wherein each of the heating elements extends from a first type of electrical connection to a second type of electrical connection.

21. An article comprising an aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. An aerosol supply system comprising an article for an aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 17 or for an aerosol supply device according to claim 21, and an aerosol supply device configured to receive the aerosol generator or the article.

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