thing

Abstract

Article (304) for an aerosol supply device, the article comprising: an aerosol generating material; a first resistance heating layer (1702) comprising a first resistance heating element configured to heat the aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol generating material is located on the first resistance heating layer; and a second resistance heating layer (1704) comprising a second resistance heating element configured to heat the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating material is located on the second resistance heating layer. The device comprises such a resistive heating element, where each resistive heating element is at least part of the conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to an article for an aerosol supply device. This application also relates to an aerosol supply system, a method of manufacturing an article, and a blank.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products include so-called "non-combustion heating type" products that release compounds by heating a material without burning it, or tobacco heating devices or products. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] Aerosol supply systems covering the above-described devices or products are known. A common system uses a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, and then the aerosol is inhaled by the user. Often, the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide different aerosols for inhalation. It is known to use a resistive heating system as a heater for generating an aerosol from a suitable medium.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one aspect, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided. The article includes a first resistive heating layer comprising an aerosol-generating material and a first resistive heating element configured to heat the aerosol-generating material, wherein the aerosol-generating material is on the first resistive heating layer, and a second resistive heating layer comprising an aerosol-generating material and a second resistive heating element configured to heat the aerosol-generating material, wherein the aerosol-generating material is on the second resistive heating layer. 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.

[0005] The first aerosol generating layer may comprise an aerosol generating material, or the first resistance heating layer comprising a first resistance heating element may be configured to heat the aerosol generating material of the first aerosol generating layer to generate an aerosol, and the first aerosol generating layer may be located on the first resistance heating layer.

[0006] The article may include a second aerosol generating layer comprising an aerosol generating material, or a second resistance heating layer comprising a second resistance heating element configured to heat the aerosol generating material of the second aerosol generating layer to generate an aerosol, wherein the second aerosol generating layer is located on the second resistance heating layer.

[0007] Each of the first and second resistance heating elements may extend from a common first type of electrical contact.

[0008] The second type of electrical contact may comprise two electrical contacts that are electrically isolated from each other.

[0009] The first resistive heating element may extend from one of the electrical contacts. The second resistive heating element may extend from the other of the electrical contacts.

[0010] A second type of electrical contact is connected to the electrical ground.

[0011] The first aerosol-generating layer may at least partially define the first airflow path. The second aerosol-generating layer may at least partially define the second airflow path, which is different from the first airflow path.

[0012] The article may further include a support layer between the first resistance heating layer and the second resistance heating layer. The support layer may have notches for at least partially defining the airflow path. The support layer is made from paper, card, or board material. One or more of the resistance heating layers may be bonded to the support layer.

[0013] Electrical contacts may be formed on the outer surface of the article.

[0014] The first resistance heating layer may include a first electrical track extending from the first heating element, or the first electrical track may include a first electrical contact configured to electrically connect the first heating element to a device contact.

[0015] The second conductive layer may include a second electrical track extending from the second heating element, and the second electrical track may be in electrical communication with the first electrical contacts such that the first electrical contacts are common to the first and second resistive heating elements.

[0016] The article may have an electrical contact area. The electrical contact area may be at the edge of the article. The electrical contact area may be formed between two folds.

[0017] The first and second aerosol-generating layers may be oriented in opposite directions.

[0018] The first and second resistance heating layers may be oriented in opposite directions.

[0019] The first resistance heating layer and the second resistance heating layer may be formed from a single material sheet.

[0020] The first resistance heating layer is bonded to the second resistance heating layer by a fold.

[0021] The first and second resistance heating layers may be formed from a folded substrate. The folded substrate may be folded along one or more fold lines.

[0022] The first resistance heating layer may comprise a plurality of first resistance heating elements, each of which is configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material of the first aerosol generating layer to generate an aerosol.

[0023] The second resistive heating layer may comprise a plurality of second resistive heating elements, each configured to heat at least a respective part of the aerosol-forming material of the second aerosol-forming layer to generate an aerosol.

[0024] The first type of electrical contact may comprise a plurality of electrical contacts. Each of the first resistive heating elements and each of the second resistive heating elements may extend from one of the plurality of electrical contacts.

[0025] The article may further comprise a support layer between the first resistive heating layer and the second resistive heating layer.

[0026] The first and second resistive heating layers are substantially disposed at the center of the article.

[0027] The article may further comprise a first cover disposed spaced apart from the first aerosol-forming layer, defining a first airflow path therebetween.

[0028] The article may further comprise a second cover disposed spaced apart from the second aerosol-forming layer, defining a second airflow path therebetween.

[0029] The aerosol generation system may comprise the above-described article and an aerosol supply device configured to receive the article.

[0030] The article may be a consumable of the aerosol generation system.

[0031] In yet another aspect, a blank for forming an aerosol-forming material is provided. The blank comprises a first region comprising a first resistive heating element configured to generate heat, a second region comprising a second resistive heating element configured to generate heat, a first type of electrical contact, a second type of electrical contact, and a fold line disposed between the first region and the second region. Each of the first and second resistive heating elements is at least part of the conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact.

[0032] By folding the blank along the fold line, the first and second regions form layers in which the first and second resistance heating elements face opposite directions.

[0033] The first type of electrical contact may be common to both the first and second parts.

[0034] A first type of electrical contact may be located between the first and second parts, or a fold line may be located on the first type of electrical contact.

[0035] In yet another embodiment, a method for manufacturing an article is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a blank, depositing an aerosol-generating layer comprising an aerosol-generating material onto first and / or second portions such that a first and / or second resistance heating element can heat the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol, and folding the blank along a fold line.

[0036] Next, various embodiments will be described as mere examples, with reference to the attached schematic diagram. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol supply system. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an article equipped with an aerosol-generating material for an aerosol supply system. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the first side of the aerosol generator of the article. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the second side of the aerosol generator. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram of an aerosol supply system, such as the system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 2 is a schematic partially exploded perspective view of the article, showing the aerosol generator inverted from its assembled orientation and spaced apart from the other components. [Figure 7] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 8] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the heating element of the aerosol generator. [Figure 9] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the resistance heating layer of an aerosol generator having multiple heating elements. [Figure 10] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 11] This is a disassembled perspective view of the formed aerosol generator. [Figure 12] This is a schematic perspective view of the resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 13] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 14] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 15] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 16] This is a schematic perspective view of the resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 17] This is a schematic perspective view of back-to-back aerosol generators. [Figure 18] This is a schematic perspective view of an article having back-to-back aerosol generators. [Figure 19A] This is a schematic perspective view of a blank for forming back-to-back aerosol generators. [Figure 19B] This is a schematic perspective view showing an enlarged portion of the blank in Figure 19A. [Figure 20] This is a schematic perspective view of a hollow aerosol generator. [Figure 21]This is a cross-sectional view of another hollow aerosol generator. [Figure 22A] This is a schematic perspective view of a blank for forming a hollow aerosol generator. [Figure 22B] This is a schematic perspective view of another blank for forming a hollow aerosol generator. [Figure 22C] This is a schematic perspective view of another blank for forming a hollow aerosol generator. [Figure 23A] This is a schematic perspective view of various components of an article having a hollow aerosol generator. [Figure 23B] This is a schematic perspective view of an article having a hollow aerosol generator cut out to show its interior. [Figure 24] This is a schematic perspective view of various components of an article having a layered structure. [Figure 25A] This is a schematic perspective view of an article having a laminated structure, cut out to show its interior. [Figure 25B] This is a schematic perspective view of an article having a laminated structure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] As used herein, the term “delivery mechanism” is intended to encompass a system for delivering a substance to a user, and includes non-combustible aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without burning the aerosolizable materials, such as a hybrid system for generating aerosols using a combination of electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and aerosolizable materials, and articles comprising aerosolizable materials and configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol supply systems.

[0039] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol-generating materials (or components thereof) 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.

[0040] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0046] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power supply.

[0047] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a suction port, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0048] 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 material, a filter, a suction nozzle, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0049] As used herein, “aerosol-generating material” (sometimes referred to herein as “aerosolizable material”) is a material that can generate an aerosol when heated, irradiated, or electrically charged in any other manner. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or semi-solid (such as a gel), which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0050] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0051] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0052] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent such as water may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-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.

[0053] 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 substance to be delivered and / or a filler 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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 may be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0057] The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder such as a gelling agent with a solvent such as water, an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more other components such as 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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 that may hold 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of the following: pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0062] 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 materials.

[0063] An aerosol supply device can accept an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, "article" refers to a component or component containing an aerosol-generating material that is heated during use to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally other components during use. The user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol supply device before the article is heated to generate an aerosol, after which the user inhales the aerosol.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Consumables are articles containing aerosol-generating material or articles consisting of aerosol-generating material, some or all of which are intended to be consumed by the user during use. 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 cause the aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol. The heater may comprise, for example, a material that can be heated by electrical conductivity.

[0066] A non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a modular assembly that includes both a reusable aerosol supply device and interchangeable aerosol products. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may comprise a power supply and a controller (i.e., a control circuit). The power supply may comprise a power source such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other embodiments, the aerosol product may comprise the aerosol generating component partially or entirely.

[0067] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the aerosol supply system 100. The aerosol supply system 100 comprises an aerosol supply device 200 and an article 300 equipped with an aerosol generating material 302 (see Figure 3). The article 300 removed from the aerosol supply device 200 is shown in Figure 2. The aerosol generator 304 of the article 300 is shown in Figure 3 along with a perspective view of a first side view 306, and a perspective view of a portion of a second side view 307 is shown in Figure 4.

[0068] Article 300 comprises an aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material 302 when the aerosol supply system 100 is in operation, as will be described in detail below.

[0069] The aerosol supply system 100 may be elongated and extend along its longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply system 100 has a proximal end 102 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 100, and a distal end 104 furthest from the user when used.

[0070] The proximal end may also be called the “mouthpiece end.” Thus, the aerosol supply system 100 defines a proximal direction that is directed toward the user during use. Furthermore, the aerosol supply system 100 similarly defines a distal direction that is directed away from the user during use. The terms proximal and distal applied to the features of system 100 are explained by referring to the relative arrangement of such features relative to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0071] Article 300 is received by an aerosol supply device 200. The configurations of article 300 and the aerosol supply device 200 may vary. In this embodiment, the aerosol supply device 200 comprises a device body 202. The device has a housing 204 that encloses the components of the device 200. As shown in Figure 5, an article receiving section 206, sometimes called a device chamber, is configured to receive a portion of article 300. The proximal end 308 of the article protrudes from the device 200 when article 300 is received into the device chamber 206. A receptacle 208 defines the chamber 206. The receptacle 208 comprises a receptacle base 210 and a receptacle periphery wall 212. The configuration of the receptacle 208 may vary depending on the configuration of article 300.

[0072] The aerosol supply device 200 may be provided with one or more user-operable control elements 224, such as buttons or switches, which can be used to operate the aerosol supply system 100. For example, a user may activate the system 100 by pressing a control element 224.

[0073] The aerosol supply device 200 has an opening 214 at its proximal end that leads to a device chamber 206. The opening 214 is provided at one end and into which an article 300 can be inserted. In embodiments, the article 300 may be fully or partially inserted into the device 200. The configuration of the device 200 may vary, for example, the opening may be located on the longitudinal side wall of the device 200 and / or may be closed by another mechanism of the device 200 during use. In this configuration, the article 300 defines a mouthpiece 310 at the proximal end 308. In other embodiments, the device 200 defines the mouthpiece. The user places their mouth over the mouthpiece during use.

[0074] Device 200 defines a longitudinal axis along which article 300 may extend when inserted into device 200. The opening 214 is aligned on the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may also be the axis along which article 300 is inserted into device 200. The longitudinal axis may be considered the receiving axis of device 200. Article 300 may similarly have a longitudinal axis along which it is inserted into the device, and this axis may be considered the insertion axis.

[0075] The aerosol supply device 200 includes a power supply 220. The power supply 220 may be a battery, for example, a rechargeable battery. The device 200 also includes a control circuit 222 which functions as a controller, comprising a processor and memory.

[0076] As will be described in detail below, the heating system 110 is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material 302 of the article 300. In this embodiment, the article 300 is a consumable and interchangeable with other articles 300. The heating system 110 comprises an aerosol generator 304. The heating system 110 comprises the article 300 and other components of the aerosol supply system 100, including components of the aerosol supply device 200, such as a power supply 220 and a control circuit 222.

[0077] The aerosol generator 304 forms part of article 300. The aerosol generator 304 includes a heating component 312 configured to generate an aerosol by heating at least one of an aerosol-generating material 302, such as a film and a gel. The aerosol-generating material may also be called an aerosolizable material.

[0078] The heating component 312 is a resistance heating component. In the embodiment, the heating element or each heating element is a resistance heating element, as will be described in detail below. In such a component, the heating system 110 includes a resistance heating generator which includes components for heating the heating component 312 by a resistance heating process. In this case, a current is applied directly to the resistance 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 resistance heating element comprises a resistance material configured to generate heat when an appropriate current passes through the resistance heating element, and the heating component 312 comprises electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistance material. The provision of the resistance heating component 312 enables a compact configuration. Resistance heating provides an efficient configuration.

[0079] In the use of the aerosol supply system 100, air is drawn into the air inlet 314 of the article 300, as indicated by arrow 316. The air inlet 314 is located at the distal end of the article 300. In embodiments, the air inlet 314 may have different configurations, for example, on the side. The airflow to the air inlet 314 of the article 300 may be defined by at least one of the following: an air path through the device 200, an air path outside the device 200, and an air path between the device 200 and the article 300. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 304 exits the device at the aerosol outlet 318, as indicated by arrow 319. In embodiments, the aerosol outlet 318 is located in the mouthpiece of the article 300 so that the aerosol is drawn directly from the article 300 to the user's mouth of the device 10.

[0080] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol supply system includes two main components: a control unit that forms a reusable component, and a consumable component that forms a replaceable or disposable article or cartridge, which may also be called a replaceable or disposable article or cartridge. As described herein, the aerosol supply device 200 forms the control unit, and the article 300 forms the consumable component. In the use of the aerosol generation system, the control unit and the consumable component may be releasably connected at an interface. The consumable component may be removable and replaceable, for example, when the consumable component is in use, and the control unit may be reused with another consumable component.

[0081] The illustrated aerosol supply system 100 is provided merely as an example and is highly schematic. Different aerosol generating devices and other devices may be used in exemplary embodiments of the principle described herein. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, air is drawn into an air inlet of the control unit, passes through an interface, and exits the consumable parts.

[0082] As schematically shown in Figure 5 and described in detail below, article 300 has article electrical contact configuration 320. In this embodiment, the electrical contact configuration 320 is formed by an aerosol generator 304. The electrical contact configuration 320 includes a heater electrical contact 322. The heater electrical contact 322 may also be known as a heater or article contact. The aerosol supply device 200 includes an electrical connector 230. The electrical connector 230 includes a connector electrical contact 232. The connector electrical contact 232 may also be known as a connector or device contact. The article electrical contact configuration 320 is configured to communicate electrically with the device electrical connector 230.

[0083] The configuration of article 300 may vary. Article 300 comprises a body 324, which is hollow. The body 324 defines a flow path 326 (see Figure 6) through article 300. The flow path 326 extends between an air inlet 314 and an aerosol outlet 318. The flow path 326 is defined by an internal space within the article through which air and / or aerosols can flow. The flow path 326 is defined within the body 324. An aerosol generator 304 or each aerosol generator borders the flow path 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the flow path 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the internal space. In the embodiment, the internal space comprises two or more chambers.

[0084] The air inlet 314 includes an opening 315. The opening 315 is formed in the main body 324. In embodiments, the opening is formed in another component of the article 300, for example, the aerosol generator 304 or another wall feature. The aerosol outlet 318 includes an outlet opening 317. The outlet opening 317 is formed in the main body 324. In embodiments, the outlet opening 317 is formed in another component of the article 300, for example, the aerosol generator 304 or another wall feature.

[0085] As shown in Figure 6, article 300 comprises two aerosol generators 304 that form an aerosol generator configuration. The number of aerosol generators 304 may vary. Each aerosol generator 304 comprises an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the flow path 326. In embodiments, article 300 includes a single aerosol generator 304. One of the aerosol generators 304 is described in detail, but such details are applicable to one or more further aerosol generators 304 in embodiments.

[0086] The aerosol generator 304, or each aerosol generator and body 324, is formed in a layered configuration. In embodiments, other structures such as tubular structures of articles are conceivable. In such tubular structures, the aerosol generator 304 defines a tubular structure. The tubular shape may include circular, elliptical, and other polygonal shapes.

[0087] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, article 300 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 each of the length and 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.

[0088] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of article 300, in which the aerosol generator 304 is shown inverted from its assembled orientation and spaced apart from the other components. Article 300 comprises a first aerosol generator 302, a body 324, and a second aerosol generator. The body 324 separates the first and second aerosol generators 304. The first and second aerosol generators 304 occupy an internal space defined by the body 324 through which air and / or aerosols can flow. The aerosol-generating materials 302 of the first and second aerosol generators 304 are exposed to the internal space facing each other. When assembled, the first and second aerosol generators 304 sandwich the body 324. In the embodiment of Figure 6, at least the first and second aerosol generators 304 and the body have equal planar area. In the embodiment, one or more of the first and second aerosol generators 304 and the body 324 have a greater length and / or width. In the embodiment, one of the first and second aerosol generators 304 is replaced by a blank panel. The body 324 comprises a body layer. The body may comprise multiple body layers. The body layers are formed in a lamination and may be arranged to define features of the article 300, such as an air inlet 314 and an aerosol outlet 318.

[0089] The wrap surrounds the article 300 and forms part of the article 300. The wrap may include a sheet. The wrap functions as a fixing sleeve. The aerosol generator 304 or each aerosol generator protrudes from the wrap at its distal end. The exposed electrical contact area 323 of the heater contact 322 is exposed at the distal end. Other configurations are conceivable, for example, at least one exposed electrical contact area 323 may be additionally or alternatively defined on the main surface of the article defined by the aerosol generator 304, along the short longitudinal surface or edge of the article 300.

[0090] The aerosol generator 304 is schematically shown in cross-section in Figure 7. The aerosol generator 304 is an embodiment of the aerosol generator 304 of the aerosol supply system 100 described above.

[0091] The aerosol generator 304 comprises an aerosol generating layer 330, also known as an aerosolizable layer. The aerosol generating layer 330 comprises an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generator 304 also comprises a resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. The aerosol generating layer 330 is located on the resistance heating layer 340. The aerosol generating layer 330 is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 is in indirect contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 may comprise a coating. As will be described in detail below, the resistance heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistance heating elements 342, for example, as shown in Figures 8 and 9. Each resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 forms at least a portion of a conductive path between a pair of electrical contacts 322. Each resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 provides a conductive path for resistance heating at least a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 to generate an aerosol. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material 302 is in the form of a film or a gel.

[0092] The resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. In this embodiment, this layer takes the form of at least one of a metal layer, such as an aluminum layer, or a non-metallic material, such as graphene. The resistance heating layer 340 is in the form of a foil, for example, an aluminum foil.

[0093] The aerosol generator 304 includes a support 350. In this embodiment, the support 350 comprises paper or card material. The support 350 provides structural support for the aerosol generator 304. The resistance heating layer 340 is located on the support 350. The support 350 is configured as a support layer. As shown in Figure 7, in the aerosol generator 304, the resistance heating layer 340 is sandwiched between the support 350 and the aerosol generation layer 330.

[0094] The support 350 is electrically insulating. The resistance heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define the substrate 352. The substrate 352 supports the aerosol generating layer 330.

[0095] Article 300 may comprise a laminate 354 having a resistance heating layer 340 and a support layer 350. In embodiments, the laminate 354 comprises an aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer 330 may be formed as a continuous structure or from separate parts. The discontinuous parts may comprise one or more of dots, strips, helices, or other shapes.

[0096] One or more of the aerosol generation layer 330, the resistance heating layer 340, and the support layer 350 may comprise further layers. For example, the support layer 350 may comprise a backing layer or an intermediate layer. The support layer 350 is omitted in this embodiment.

[0097] Figure 8 shows one of the resistance heating elements 342. The resistance heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistance heating elements 342. In this embodiment, the resistance heating layer 340 comprises a single resistance heating element 342.

[0098] Multiple heating elements 342 may be formed in an array 344 as shown in Figure 9. Other configurations are also possible.

[0099] The resistive heating element 342 comprises a resistive heating path. The resistive heating path is formed by a conductive path. The resistive heating path is nonlinear. The resistive heating path is folded. The configuration of the resistive heating path may vary. The electrical resistance of the heating element 342 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.

[0100] The resistive heating element 342 extends between the first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365. The first type of electrical contact 360 is configured to provide a positive contact, and the second type of electrical contact 365 is configured to provide a negative contact. Current flows through the path between the first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365. The contact arrangement may be reversed. The first and second type of electrical contacts 360, 365 constitute the heater electrical contact 322. The first and second type of electrical contacts 360, 365 form at least a portion of the article electrical contact configuration 320.

[0101] The bending or meandering nature of the path of the resistive heating element 342 is such that the electrical resistance of the path increases compared to a straight path between the first and second types of electrical contacts.

[0102] The resistance heating layer 340 may include a first type of electrical track 361 extending from the resistance heating element 342. The first type of electrical track 361 includes a first type of electrical contact 360. The first type of electrical contact 360 is configured to electrically connect to the device electrical connector 230. The first type of electrical contact 360 includes a first type of exposed contact area 362. The first type of exposed contact area 362 is exposed on the article for direct connection to the device electrical connector 230.

[0103] The resistance heating layer 340 may include a second type of electrical track 366 extending from the resistance heating element 342. The second type of electrical track 366 includes a second type of electrical contact 365. The second type of electrical contact 365 is configured to electrically connect to the device electrical connector 230. The second type of electrical contact 365 includes a second type of exposed contact area 367. The second type of exposed contact area 367 is exposed on the article 300 for direct connection to the device electrical connector 230.

[0104] As described in detail below, the conductive path of the resistive heating element 342 in the embodiment is formed by defining at least one electrical insulating barrier 346 within the resistive heating layer 340. In the embodiment, the electrical insulating barrier 346 is formed by cutting electrical insulating barrier limitations (i.e., electrical insulating portions), such as gaps, channels, or slots, in a sheet formed of the conductive material to form the resistive heating layer 340. In the embodiment, the conductive element 342 is pre-formed to define the resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 and then attached to the support 350. In the embodiment, the resistive heating layer 340 is attached to the support 350 and then the resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 is defined within the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating element 342 or each resistive heating element defining the resistive heating layer 340 may be a printed heater.

[0105] At least one electrical insulating barrier 346 defines first and second types of electrical tracks 361, 366.

[0106] In some embodiments, the tracks of the resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 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 the gap between tracks is less than approximately 0.25 mm (the same two exemplary prototypes have gaps of 0.2 mm and 0.05 mm, respectively). The resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 may have overall dimensions of approximately 10 mm × 10 mm. Other dimensions are possible in other exemplary embodiments. By forming resistive heating elements or each resistive heating element 342 of these dimensions from aluminum foil with a thickness of 0.006 mm and an electrical resistivity of 2 to 6 μOhmcm, the resistance of the path is calculated to be approximately 1 ohm. In one exemplary embodiment, the resistance was measured between 0.83 and 1.31 ohms.

[0107] As shown in Figure 9, the resistance heating layer 340 may be formed on multiple resistance heating elements generally indicated by reference numbers 342a, 342b, 242c, 342d, and 342e. Each of the resistance heating elements 342a to 342e extends from each of the first type of electrical contacts generally indicated by reference numbers 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d, and 360e to a single second type of electrical contact 365. The number of electrical contacts may vary. Thus, each resistance heating element 342a to 342e extends between individual first type electrical contacts and a common second type electrical contact.

[0108] Each of the resistance heating elements 342a to 342e provides a conductive path for resistance heating a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 in order to generate an aerosol in each part of the aerosol generator 304.

[0109] The separate first type of electrical contacts 360a to 360e allow current to be supplied individually to each of the multiple resistive heating elements 342a to 342e. This allows for control of heating of different zones of the aerosol generation layer 330. For example, the aerosol generator may have five aerosol generation zones. The resistive heating layer 340 allows each of these zones to be operated separately. Thus, for example, five aerosol aspirates may be produced from a single consumable incorporating a single aerosol generator 304, or ten aerosol aspirates may be produced from a single consumable incorporating two aerosol generators 304.

[0110] In the exemplary resistance heating layer 340, a plurality of first type electrical contacts 360a to 360e, e.g., positive electrical connections, and a single second type electrical contact 365, e.g., negative electrical connection, are provided. This is not essential in all embodiments. For example, a plurality of second type contacts may be provided. In the embodiment, each resistance heating element 342a to 342e comprises a corresponding first type electrical contact 360 and a corresponding second type electrical contact 365.

[0111] In the embodiment of the resistance heating layer 340 shown in Figure 9, the first type of electrical contacts 360a to 360e are located on the first edge 363 of the resistance heating layer 340, and the second type of electrical contacts 365 are located on the second edge 368 of the resistance heating layer 340. This may allow for convenient power connections, but of course, many other configurations are possible, some of which will be described further below.

[0112] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing part of a method or algorithm for forming an aerosol generator 304, generally denoted by reference numeral 400, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0113] The method or algorithm 400 begins with an operation 402 in which a resistive heating layer is formed on one or more heating elements (e.g., multiple heating elements), each resistive heating element extending from a first type of electrical contact to a second type of electrical contact. During use, the heating elements or each heating element may be used to provide a conductive path for resistive heating of a portion of an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The formation of the resistive heating elements or each resistive heating element may be performed before or after attaching the resistive heating layer to a support, if a support is present. The resistive heating layer may be bonded to the support or mounted or formed on the support in a different configuration.

[0114] In operation 404, the formed resistance heating layer is positioned in contact with the aerosol generating layer, which incorporates the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generator 304 described above may be manufactured using algorithm 400.

[0115] Figure 11 shows an aerosol generator 304 formed according to one embodiment. The aerosol generating material 302 is formed on the resistance heating layer 340 by depositing the aerosol generating material, for example, by spraying, painting, dispensing, or in some other way. In an exemplary embodiment of operation 64, the aerosol generating layer 330 is disposed on the resistance heating layer 340 as indicated by arrow 406.

[0116] Figure 12 shows a resistance heating layer 340 formed according to an exemplary embodiment. The resistance heating layer 340 is in the process of being cut using a laser cutter 408. Cutting the resistance heating layer 340 can be used to form the paths of the heating elements described herein. The use of a laser cutter 408 (or any other cutting process) is not the only way in which the resistance heating layer 340 described herein can be produced. Several exemplary methods are described below.

[0117] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating part of a method for forming an aerosol generator 304 or algorithm, generally denoted by reference numeral 410. The method or algorithm 410 begins with operation 412, in which a resistance heating layer is provided. In operation 414, one or more resistance heating elements are formed within the resistance heating layer by chemical etching of the resistance heating layer. Operations 412 and 414 are exemplary embodiments of operation 402 of method 400 described above. An aerosol generating material is then disposed on the resistance heating layer, thereby performing operation 404 described above.

[0118] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating part of a method for forming an aerosol generator 304 or algorithm, generally indicated by reference numeral 418. The method or algorithm 418 begins at least partially with operation 420, in which one or more heating elements are formed by printing a resistance heating layer. Thus, operation 420 is an exemplary embodiment of operation 62 of algorithm 402 described above. The aerosol generating material is then disposed on the resistance heating layer, thereby performing operation 404 described above.

[0119] The cutting, etching, and printing methods described above are provided as examples, but other additional or alternative methods are also possible. For example, a so-called “hot foil” technique can be used, in which the heating element is fabricated from a resistance heating layer and then assembled / bonded onto a support. Even further techniques, such as die cutting, can also be used. Furthermore, two or more techniques can be combined (for example, conductivity can be added to the connection trace by adding 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 embodiments of the principle described herein.

[0120] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an operating method or algorithm, collectively referred to as reference number 424. The method or algorithm 424 may be carried out, for example, using one of the aerosol generators described herein. The method or algorithm 424 is initiated when a command to activate heating is received in an instance of operation 426. In response to the command to activate heating, a determination is made as to whether a heating element is available (operation 428). As described above, multiple heating elements may be provided. Operation 428 may include determining which heating element has been used and / or whether the corresponding available aerosol generating material has been exhausted.

[0121] If heating elements are available, the algorithm proceeds to operation 430, where available heating elements are used. As described above, heating elements may be individually controllable, for example, by supplying power to individual heating elements. Once operation 430 is complete, the algorithm terminates in operation 432. If operation 428 determines that no heating elements are available, for example, because all heating elements have been used, the algorithm terminates in operation 432. This may mean that the consumable parts used to perform algorithm 424 need to be replaced.

[0122] Figure 16 shows a resistance heating layer 340 formed according to one embodiment. The resistance heating layer 340 is cut using a laser cutter 408, but other methods such as chemical etching or printing may also be used as described above. Cutting the conductive layer 340 forms the heating element described herein.

[0123] In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, the path to be cut is a straight path extending along the length of the conductive layer 120.

[0124] Figure 17 shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the aerosol generator 304. In this embodiment, the aerosol generator 304 includes a first resistance heating layer 1702 and a second resistance heating layer 1704. The first and / or second resistance heating layers 1702, 1704 may be the same or may have one or more of the same features as any of the resistance heating layers 340 described above. In this embodiment, the first and second resistance heating layers 1702, 1704 are arranged back-to-back such that the resistance heating elements 342 are exposed on their outer surfaces. In other words, the resistance heating elements 342 face outward from the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304. The resistance heating elements 342 can be considered to be facing opposite directions from one another. The aerosol generator 304 further comprises a first aerosol generating layer (not shown) disposed on the resistance heating element 342 of the first resistance heating layer 1702 so that the first aerosol generating layer can be heated by the resistance heating element 342 of the first resistance heating layer 1702. Therefore, the first aerosol generating layer is also disposed on the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 further comprises a second aerosol generating layer (not shown) disposed on the resistance heating element 342 of the second resistance heating layer 1704 so that the second aerosol generating layer can be heated by the resistance heating element 342 of the second resistance heating layer 1704. Therefore, the second aerosol generating layer is also disposed on the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304.

[0125] In this embodiment, the first resistance heating layer 1702 defines at least partially the first airflow path 1706. The first airflow path 1706 is coupled to an outlet (not shown) from which a user can inhale air within the first airflow path. Aerosols generated from the first aerosol generating layer are readily dispersed within the first airflow path 1706. The airflow within the first airflow path 1706 may carry the dispersed aerosols to the outlet and / or mouthpiece end for inhalation by the user.

[0126] In this embodiment, the second resistance heating layer 1704 defines at least partially the second airflow path 1708. The second airflow path 1708 is coupled to an outlet (not shown) from which a user can inhale air within the second airflow path. Aerosols generated from the second aerosol generating layer are readily dispersed within the second airflow path 1708. The airflow within the second airflow path 1708 may carry the dispersed aerosols to the outlet and / or mouthpiece end for inhalation by the user.

[0127] Advantageously, the above-described structure makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol stored by the aerosol generator without significantly increasing the size of the aerosol generator.

[0128] Figure 18 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-forming article 300 comprising an aerosol generator 304. The article 300 comprises an aerosol generator 304 and a cover. The cover comprises a first portion 1802 and a second portion 1804. The first portion 1802 is positioned spaced apart from the first resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator 304. Together with the first resistance heating layer 1702, the first portion 1802 defines a first airflow path between them. The second portion 1804 is positioned spaced apart from the second resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator 304. Together with the second resistance heating layer 1704, the second portion 1804 defines a second airflow path between them. The second portion 1804 defines a second airflow path between them.

[0129] The electrical contact portion of the aerosol generator 304 extends beyond the cover and / or the first and second portions 1802, 1804. The heater electrical contact 322 is exposed for electrical connection to the power supply 220 of the aerosol supply device 200. The power supply 220 and / or the aerosol supply device 200 are described above. The heater electrical contact 322 comprises first and second type electrical contacts from a first resistance heating layer on a first side surface. The heater electrical contact 322 comprises first and second type electrical contacts from a second resistance heating layer on a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. In this embodiment, there are multiple first type electrical contacts. In other embodiments, there are no multiple first type electrical contacts, for example, only one first type electrical contact. In this embodiment, the first type electrical contact is common to both the first and second resistance heating layers. In other embodiments, the first type of electrical contacts are not common to both the first and second resistance heating layers, for example, each of the first and second resistance heating layers is connected to its own first type of electrical contacts.

[0130] Article 300 further comprises an opening 1806. The opening 1806 fluidly connects a first airflow path to a second airflow path. The opening 1806 is formed from a cutout from an aerosol generator 304. In some embodiments, a cutout from the aerosol generator 304 and a cover are combined to form the opening 1806. In some embodiments, a cutout from the aerosol generator 304 and a core (which may be one or more cores) are combined to form an air outlet of the article. The core is omitted from Figure 18 but will be described in more detail below, for example, in relation to Figures 23 to 25. In some embodiments, article 300 comprises two or more openings. Advantageously, the openings allow for use as a single outlet for both airflow paths, thereby simplifying the manufacture of the article.

[0131] The aerosol generator 304 described above may be formed from a blank 1900 as shown in Figure 19A. The blank 1900 is a single sheet of conductive material. The blank 1900 comprises a first region 1902, a second region 1904, a third region 1906, a fourth region 1908, and a fifth region 1909. All of the above regions are formed on a single sheet of conductive material. In this embodiment, the single sheet of conductive material is an aluminum-backed card, i.e., a sheet of card having a layer of aluminum deposited thereon. All of the above regions are formed on the same side of the single sheet of conductive material. In some embodiments, the blank 1900 includes a support 350 on which the single sheet of conductive material is deposited. The card material described in the embodiment of Figure 19A may be considered to be the support 350. In other embodiments, the sheet of conductive material may comprise the support 350.

[0132] The first region 1902 corresponds to the first resistance heating layer as described above. In other words, the first region 1902 is formed to have the same characteristics as the first resistance heating layer. The first region 1902 may be formed by chemical etching, laser etching, or by printing a conductive material onto the substrate. In some embodiments, the first region 1902 may be formed by cutting, such as die cutting. The substrate may be a sheet of aerosol-generating material or card material.

[0133] The second region 1904 corresponds to the second resistance heating layer as described above. In other words, the second region 1904 is formed to have the same characteristics as the second resistance heating layer. The second region 1904 may be formed by chemical etching, laser etching, or by printing a conductive material onto the substrate. In some embodiments, the second region 1904 may be formed by cutting, such as die cutting. The substrate may be a sheet of aerosol-generating material or card material.

[0134] The third region 1906 corresponds to a plurality of first type electrical contacts. The plurality of first type electrical contacts may be common to both the first and second resistance heating layers. In this embodiment, each resistance heating element in the first resistance heating layer extends from one end of one of the plurality of first type electrical contacts, and each resistance heating element in the second resistance layer extends from the other end of the aforementioned first type electrical contact. In other words, each of the first type electrical contacts has two resistance heating elements extending from it, each corresponding to the respective resistance heating layer. In other embodiments, the first type electrical contacts from the first resistance heating layer are separate from the first type electrical contacts from the second resistance heating layer. The third region 1906 includes a fold line 1907. In this embodiment, the fold line 1907 is located in the center of the third region 1906 between the first region 1902 and the second region 1904. In other embodiments, the fold line is not located in the center of the third region between the first and second regions; for example, the fold line may be located anywhere between the first and second regions.

[0135] The folding of the blank 1900 around the fold line 1907 may be part of the manufacturing process for producing the aerosol generator 304 in Figure 17 and / or the article 300 in Figure 18. In these embodiments, the aerosol generator has resistance heating layers arranged back-to-back with each other. In this configuration, the supports 350 of each resistance heating layer may be in contact with each other. The resistance heating elements of each resistance heating layer may be oriented opposite to each other. In these embodiments, the supports 150 advantageously mitigate or eliminate the fragility caused by folding. Furthermore, the supports 150 tend to ensure that the resistance heating elements on opposite sides of the aerosol generator 304 are separated / away from each other. In some embodiments, the supports 150 can be omitted entirely.

[0136] Here, we refer to Figure 19B, which shows an enlarged view of the area circled in Figure 19A. The plurality of first type electrical contacts comprises a first electrical contact 1910, a second electrical contact 1912, a third electrical contact 1914, a fourth electrical contact 1916, and a fifth electrical contact 1918. In this embodiment, each of the first type electrical contacts is elongated along its longitudinal direction. In other embodiments, each of the first type electrical contacts is not elongated along its longitudinal direction; for example, each of the first type electrical contacts may have a non-elongated shape. In other embodiments, each of the aforementioned electrical contacts is cut / separated into two parts, each extending to its respective resistance heating layer.

[0137] The first resistance heating layer and / or first portion comprises a first resistance heating element 1920, a second resistance heating element 1922, a third resistance heating element 1924, a fourth resistance heating element 1926, and a fifth resistance heating element 1928.

[0138] The second resistance heating layer and / or second portion comprises a sixth resistance heating element 1930, a seventh resistance heating element 1932, an eighth resistance heating element 1934, a ninth resistance heating element 1936, and a tenth resistance heating element 1938.

[0139] The first resistance heating element 1920 extends from one longitudinal end of the first electrical contact 1910. The sixth resistance heating element 1930 extends from the other longitudinal end of the first electrical contact 1910.

[0140] The second resistance heating element 1922 extends from one longitudinal end of the second electrical contact 1912. The seventh resistance heating element 1932 extends from the other longitudinal end of the second electrical contact 1912.

[0141] The third resistance heating element 1924 extends from one longitudinal end of the third electrical contact 1914. The eighth resistance heating element 1934 extends from the other longitudinal end of the third electrical contact 1914.

[0142] The fourth resistance heating element 1926 extends from one longitudinal end of the fourth electrical contact 1916. The ninth resistance heating element 1936 extends from the other longitudinal end of the fourth electrical contact 1916.

[0143] The fifth resistance heating element 1928 extends from one longitudinal end of the fifth electrical contact 1918. The tenth resistance heating element 1938 extends from the other longitudinal end of the fifth electrical contact 1928.

[0144] Referring now to Figure 19A, the fourth region 1908 corresponds to the second type of electrical contacts of the first resistive heating layer. These second type of electrical contacts are common to each resistive heating element of the first resistive heating layer. In other words, each resistive heating element in the first resistive heating layer extends to the second type of electrical contacts corresponding to the fourth region 1908.

[0145] The fifth region 1909 corresponds to a second type of electrical contact in the second resistive heating layer. This second type of electrical contact is common to each of the resistive heating elements in the second resistive heating layer. In other words, each of the resistive heating elements in the second resistive heating layer extends to the second type of electrical contact corresponding to the fifth region 1909. The fourth region 1908 is electrically isolated from the fifth region 1909.

[0146] Advantageously, the above configuration allows for an increase in the number of heating zones (corresponding to resistive heating elements) while reducing and / or minimizing the number of electrical contacts. For example, this may be due to first and second resistive heating layers sharing a first type of electrical contact. Similarly, the resistive heating elements in each resistive heating layer also share a second type of electrical contact. Furthermore, the individual operating capabilities are not sacrificed to achieve this advantage. Specifically, power can be selectively supplied to certain first type electrical contacts and certain second type electrical contacts. This ensures that power can flow through only one of the resistive heating elements.

[0147] Furthermore, such an arrangement allows for rotational symmetry along the longitudinal axis of the article, thereby reducing complexity.

[0148] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the aerosol generator 304. In this embodiment, the aerosol generator 304 includes a first resistance heating layer 2002 and a second resistance heating layer 2004. The first and / or second resistance heating layers 2002, 2004 may be the same or may have one or more of the same features as any of the resistance heating layers 340 described above. In this embodiment, the first and second resistance heating layers 2002, 2004 are spaced apart from each other. The first and second resistance heating layers 2002, 2004 are positioned facing each other. In other words, the resistance heating elements 342 face inward (i.e., toward the central region of article 300). The aerosol generator 304 further comprises a first aerosol generating layer (not shown) disposed on the resistance heating element 342 of the first resistance heating layer 2002 so that the first aerosol generating layer can be heated by the resistance heating element 342 of the first resistance heating layer 2002. Therefore, the first aerosol generating layer is also disposed on the inner surface of the aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 further comprises a second aerosol generating layer (not shown) disposed on the resistance heating element 342 of the second resistance heating layer 2004 so that the second aerosol generating layer can be heated by the resistance heating element 342 of the second resistance heating layer 2004. Therefore, the second aerosol generating layer is also disposed on the inner surface of the aerosol generator 304.

[0149] In this embodiment, the first resistance heating layer 2002, together with the second resistance heating layer 2004, at least partially defines an airflow path 2006 between them. One or both of the first and second aerosol generating layers may release / disperse aerosols into the airflow path 2006. The airflow in the airflow path 2006 may carry the dispersed aerosols to the outlet and / or inhalation end for inhalation by the user.

[0150] Advantageously, the above-described structure makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol stored by the aerosol generator without significantly increasing the size of the aerosol generator.

[0151] Figure 21 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 has all the features of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 20. In addition to the first and second resistance heating layers 2102, 2104 and the airflow path 2106, the aerosol generator 304 includes a first fold 2108, a second fold 2110, and a connecting portion 2112. In this embodiment, the first and second resistance heating layers 2102, 2104 and the connecting portion 2112 are formed from a single material sheet. The single material sheet may be an aluminum back card, i.e., a card sheet having aluminum foil deposited thereon. The single material sheet is folded at the first fold 2108 and the second fold 2110 to form the connecting portion 2112. The first fold 2108 extends along a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The second fold 2110 also extends along the transverse direction. The size of the connecting portion 2112 defines the size of the gap between the first resistance heating layer 2102 and the second resistance heating layer 2104. Therefore, the size of the connecting portion 2112 also defines the size of the airflow path 2106. The connecting portion 2112 includes an inlet (not shown) to the airflow path 2106.

[0152] The aerosol generator 304 further comprises a third fold 2107 and a fourth fold 2109 located at the distal end of the aerosol generator 304. The third fold 2107 extends along the transverse direction. In this embodiment, the first resistance heating layer 2102 is folded to form the third fold 2107 so that it is configured to be positioned on the inner surface of the aerosol generator 304. The fourth fold 2109 also extends along the transverse direction. In this embodiment, the second resistance heating layer 2104 is folded to form the fourth fold 2109 so that it is configured to be positioned on the inner surface of the aerosol generator 304. The third fold 2107 and the fourth fold 2109 are configured so that the first resistance heating layer 2102 and the second resistance heating layer 2104 face each other.

[0153] Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 20, the first aerosol generation layer 330 is disposed on the inner surface of the first resistance heating layer 2102. The first aerosol generation layer 330 is adjacent to the airflow path 2106 so that the aerosol generated from the first aerosol generation layer 330 can be dispersed within the airflow path 2106. Again, similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 20, the second aerosol generation layer 330 is disposed on the inner surface of the second resistance heating layer 2104. The second aerosol generation layer 330 is adjacent to the airflow path 2106 so that the aerosol generated from the second aerosol generation layer 330 can be dispersed within the airflow path 2106.

[0154] The aerosol generator 304 may be formed using a blank 2200 as shown in Figure 22A. The blank 2200 may have one or more of the same features as the blank 1900 described in relation to Figure 19. For example, the blank 2200 comprises a first region 2202 corresponding to a first resistance heating layer, a second region 2204 corresponding to a second resistance heating layer, a third region corresponding to a plurality of first type electrical contacts, and a fourth region corresponding to second type electrical contacts. Repeated descriptions of the same features are omitted. The blank 2200 further comprises a connection region 2206 corresponding to a connection portion 2112. The connection region 2206 comprises a first fold line 2208 and a second fold line 2209. The first fold line 2208 and the second fold line 2209 are spaced apart from each other and form a connection portion between them. Therefore, the distance between the first resistance heating layer and the second resistance heating layer is determined by the distance between the first fold line 2208 and the second fold line 2209. In some embodiments, the distance between the first and second resistance heating layers may be further determined by the total thickness of the first and second regions 2202, 2204 and the first and second outer regions 2211, 2214. The first portion 2202 is configured to fold around the first fold line 2208, which extends along a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The second portion 2204 is configured to fold around the second fold line 2209, which extends along a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Forming the aerosol generator shown in Figure 21 may include folding the first portion 2202 around the first fold line 2208 and folding the second portion 2204 around the second fold line 2209.

[0155] In some embodiments, the connection region 2206 may include one or more alignment features for aligning the aerosol generator to the core during manufacturing. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 22B, the alignment feature includes two alignment holes 2216, which are formed by folding a blank having four such holes 2216. In the embodiment shown in Figure 22C, the alignment feature includes two alignment holes 2216 formed from two holes 2216 in the blank.

[0156] The blank 2200 further comprises a third fold line 2210 and a fourth fold line 2212. The third fold line 2210 is located between the first region 2202 and the connecting region 2206. By folding around the third fold line 2210, the resistance heating element 342 (in the first region) can be positioned on the surface opposite to the connecting region (in the third region) and the first and second types of electrical contacts thereon. This makes it possible to position the electrical contacts on the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304, away from the resistance heating element 342 on the inner surface.

[0157] Furthermore, the blank 2200 comprises a first external region 2211 and a second external region 2214. The first external region 2211 is located between a first fold line 2208 and a third fold line 2210. The first external region 2211 defines the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304. When the blank 2200 is folded around the third fold line 2210, the first external region 2211 forms one of the outer surfaces of the aerosol generator 304. In some embodiments, each of the first and second types of electrical contacts extends from the first region 2202 across the first external region 2211 to the connection region 2206, thereby providing a conductive path from the connection region 2206 to the resistive heating element in the first region 2202. In other words, the first external region 2211 comprises a plurality of first conductive tracks. Each of the first conductive tracks is part of a conductive path comprising its respective resistive heating element, its respective first type of electrical contact, and its respective second type of electrical contact. Each of the first conductive tracks may also be considered part of its respective first type of electrical contact.

[0158] The fourth fold line 2212 is positioned between the second region 2204 and the connection region 2206. By folding around the fourth fold line 2212, the resistive heating element 342 (in the second region) can be positioned on the surface opposite to the connection region (in the third region) and the first and second types of electrical contacts above it. This makes it possible to position the electrical contacts on the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304, away from the resistive heating element 342 on the inner surface.

[0159] The second external region 2214 is located between the second fold line 2209 and the fourth fold line 2212. The second external region 2214 defines another outer surface of the aerosol generator 304. When the blank 2200 is folded around the fourth fold line 2212, the second external region 2214 forms one of the outer surfaces of the aerosol generator 304. In some embodiments, each of the first and second types of electrical contacts extends from the second region 2204 across the first external region 2212 to the connection region 2206, thereby providing a conductive path from the connection region 2206 to the resistive heating element in the second region 2204. In other words, the second external region 2214 comprises a plurality of second conductive tracks. Each of the second conductive tracks is part of the conductive path comprising the respective resistive heating element, the respective first type of electrical contact, and the respective second type of electrical contact. Each of the second conductive tracks may also be considered part of the respective first type of electrical contact. Thus, the first and second external regions 2211, 2214 may allow for the placement of connector electrical contacts 232 at the connection portion of the aerosol generator 304.

[0160] In this embodiment, the first external region 2211 is located adjacent to the first region 2202 in the longitudinal direction. In other embodiments, the first external region 2211 is not located adjacent to the first region 2202 in the longitudinal direction; for example, the first external region 2211 is located adjacent to the first region 2202 in the lateral direction. In this embodiment, the second external region 2214 is located adjacent to the second region 2204 in the longitudinal direction. In other embodiments, the second external region 2214 is not located adjacent to the second region 2204 in the longitudinal direction; for example, the second external region 2214 is located adjacent to the second region 2204 in the lateral direction.

[0161] In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figure 22B, both the first external region 2211 and the second external region 2214 are located on the same side as each other. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figure 22C, the first external region 2211 is located on the side opposite to the side on which the second external region 2214 is located. Note that the components shown in Figures 22B and 22C are the same as those described above in relation to Figure 22A. Therefore, a repeated description of these features is omitted. However, the embodiments shown in Figures 22B and 22C differ from the embodiment in Figure 22A in that the first and second resistance heating layers do not share a first type of electrical contact. In each of the embodiments shown in Figures 22B and 22C, each resistance heating element extends between its respective first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact common to a particular resistance heating layer. In other embodiments, the first type of electrical contact can be shared between different resistance heating layers as described above. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figure 22B, the third and fourth fold lines 2210, 2212 may be at least part of a single fold line.

[0162] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 22C, the connection region 2206 is located between the first external region 2211 and the second external region 2214. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 22B, the connection region 2206 is located between the first external region 2211 and the second external region 2214, and between the first region 2202 and the second region 2204.

[0163] Advantageously, the above arrangement helps reduce damage to the resistive heating element 342 during use because the most likely locations for sparks and short circuits, i.e., the contact points with the power supply 220, are distal to and / or spaced apart from the resistive heating element. Furthermore, these arrangements also provide an additional layer of material between the heating element and the rest of the device, thereby protecting other components from the relatively high temperatures of the resistive heating layer. In addition, because the aerosol generating layer 330 is deposited on the resistive heating element, these arrangements allow the electrical contacts to be positioned away from the airflow path for carrying the aerosols generated from the aerosol generating layer. This helps improve the quality of the aerosols delivered to the user because obstacles in the airflow path are minimized. Furthermore, the above arrangements also provide greater flexibility in the location of device contacts, which tend to reduce or avoid contamination by the generated aerosols.

[0164] Folding the blank 2200 to form the aerosol generator 304 includes folding in a first direction, for example clockwise or counterclockwise, around a first fold line 2208, and folding in a second direction, for example counterclockwise or clockwise, around a second fold line 2209. In other words, the folding may be thought of as carrying the “rear” portion of the blank 2200 (without the aerosol-generating material) toward each other. In some embodiments, the first direction may be opposite to the second direction. The folding may be continued until the first region 2202 and / or the first outer region 2211 is perpendicular to the third region 2206. Similarly, the folding may be continued until the second region 2204 and / or the second outer region 2214 is perpendicular to the third region 2206. The folding of the blank 2200 for forming the aerosol generator 304 may also include folding around the third fold line 2210 in the same direction as the folding around the first fold line, i.e., the first direction. The folding of the blank 2200 for forming the aerosol generator 304 may also include folding around the fourth fold line 2212 in the same direction as the folding around the second fold line 2209, i.e., the second direction.

[0165] Connection region 2206 has all the same characteristics as connection region 1906 discussed in Figures 19A and 19B, except that connection region 2206 has an extra fold line. Therefore, a description of the repetition of these same characteristics is omitted.

[0166] Advantageously, the above configuration allows for an increase in the number of heating zones (corresponding to resistive heating elements) while reducing and / or minimizing the number of electrical contacts. For example, this may be due to first and second resistive heating layers sharing a first type of electrical contact. Similarly, the resistive heating elements in each resistive heating layer also share a second type of electrical contact. Furthermore, the individual operating capabilities are not sacrificed to achieve this advantage.

[0167] In some embodiments, such as the example shown in Figure 22C, the blank 2200 is formed such that, when folded, the article 300 is rotationally symmetric with respect to a second type of electrical contact about a longitudinal axis. This may mean that the article 300 is insertable into the device in two orientations, and the second type of electrical contact is contacted by the appropriate connector electrical contact of the device in either of the two orientations. In this example, the article 300 is also rotationally symmetric with respect to a first type of electrical contact about a longitudinal axis. This may mean that each resistive heating element is actuated by the same connector electrical contact of the device in either of the two orientations.

[0168] In the example of Figure 22B, article 300 is again rotationally symmetric with respect to the second type of electrical contacts about the longitudinal axis. In this example, article 300 is not rotationally symmetric with respect to the first type of electrical contacts about the longitudinal axis. However, in each of the two insertion directions, each of the first type of electrical contacts makes contact with the respective connector electrical contacts of the device. This means that although the resistive heating elements do not have to be actuated in the same order, article 300 in Figure 22B will still function when inserted into the device in either of the two orientations.

[0169] Figure 23A shows the aerosol product assembly 300. The aerosol product assembly 300 comprises an aerosol generator 304, a core 2304, and a cover 2306. The aerosol generator 304 may be considered to be the blank 2200 as shown in Figure 22 or the aerosol generator 304 as shown in Figure 21. Again, repeated descriptions of the same features are omitted. The aerosol product assembly 300 also includes an inlet (not shown) from which air can enter the airflow path. The aerosol product assembly 300 also includes an outlet (not shown) from which a user can inhale air in the airflow path (which may contain the generated aerosol).

[0170] The core 2304 is positioned between the first and second resistance heating layers of the aerosol generator 304. The core 2304 may be considered a spacer. This may be done by folding the aerosol generator 304 around the core 2304 so that the core 2304 separates the first and second resistance heating layers and any aerosol generating layers thereon. Alternatively, the aerosol generator 304 may be folded first, and then the core may be moved between the first and second resistance heating layers. In this embodiment, the core has the same thickness as the distance between the first and second resistance heating layers. In other embodiments, the core does not have the same thickness as the distance between the first and second resistance heating layers; for example, the core has a thickness greater than or less than the distance between the first and second resistance heating layers.

[0171] The cover 2306 is configured to wrap around the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304. In this embodiment, the length of the cover 2306 is the same as the length of the aerosol generator 304 along its longitudinal direction. In other embodiments, the length of the cover is not the same as the length of the aerosol generator along its longitudinal direction; for example, the length of the cover may be longer or shorter than the length of the aerosol generator. In this embodiment, the width of the cover 2306, combined with the width of the second resistance heating layer, is equal to the width of the first resistance heating layer, combined with twice the width of the lateral connection portion. In other embodiments, the width of the cover may be greater or smaller.

[0172] Advantageously, covers tend to protect external electrical contacts from damage during handling.

[0173] In the embodiments described above, none of the fold lines are pre-formed on the blank. In other embodiments, one or more fold lines, such as folds, indentations, or notches, or electrical contacts and / or other weakenings of the support layer thereon are pre-formed on the blank.

[0174] Figure 23B shows a cross-section of the assembled article 300. The article 300 has an aerosol generator 304 positioned to surround a core 2304. As described above, this may be done by folding the aerosol generator 304 around the core 2304. The cover 2306 is wrapped around the outer surface of the aerosol generator 304. The cover 2306 defines the outer surface of the article 300. Note that Figure 23B shows a cross-section of the side of the core 2304 to show the internal structure. In this embodiment, the core 2304 completely closes the airflow path to the external environment except for the inlet and outlet. In other embodiments, the core 2304 does not completely close the airflow path to the external environment; for example, the cover only partially closes the airflow path, or the core does not close the airflow path at all. In this embodiment, the airflow path is completely isolated from the external environment except for the inlet and outlet. In some embodiments, one or more of the aerosol generator, aerosol product, and aerosol supply device may have a structure that, in combination, at least partially isolates and / or controls the airflow path from the external environment. In other embodiments, the airflow path is partially exposed to the external environment.

[0175] Figure 24 shows perspective views of various components of an alternative aerosol product 300. The aerosol product 300 comprises a first resistance heating layer 2402, a second resistance heating layer 2404, a third resistance heating layer 2405, a fourth resistance heating layer 2406, a first spacer 2408, a second spacer 2410, and a cover 2412. Each of the spacers 2408, 2410 and the cover 2412 are optional and may be omitted. One or more of the spacers 2408, 2410 may be considered as the core. Either of the second and third resistance heating layers 2404, 2405 is also optional and may be omitted. The resistance heating layers in this embodiment are the same as the resistance heating layers described above. Therefore, a description of the repeating resistance heating layers is omitted.

[0176] The first and second resistance heating layers 2402, 2404 are spaced apart from each other. The first and second resistance heating layers 2402, 2404 are also arranged such that the resistance heating elements of each layer face each other. Thus, the aerosol-generating layers of those layers also face each other. In this way, the first and second resistance heating layers 2402, 2404 define a first airflow path between them. In this embodiment, the first and second heating layers 2402, 2404 are spaced apart from each other by a first spacer 2408. In other embodiments, the first and second heating layers are not spaced apart from each other by a first spacer, for example, the first and second heating layers are spaced apart from each other by means other than a spacer.

[0177] The second and third resistance heating layers 2404, 2405 are arranged back-to-back. The second and third resistance heating layers 2404, 2405 are arranged adjacent to each other. The second and third resistance heating layers 2404, 2405 are arranged such that their resistance heating elements face opposite directions. For example, these resistance heating elements face opposite directions. In this embodiment, the second and third resistance heating layers 2404, 2405 are in contact with each other. In other embodiments, the second and third resistance heating layers 2404, 2405 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0178] The third and fourth resistance heating layers 2405, 2406 are spaced apart from each other. The third and fourth resistance heating layers 2405, 2406 are also arranged such that the resistance heating elements of each layer face each other. Thus, the aerosol-generating layers of those layers also face each other. In this way, the third and fourth resistance heating layers 2405, 2406 define a second airflow path between them. In this embodiment, the third and fourth resistance heating layers 2405, 2406 are spaced apart from each other by a second spacer 2410. In other embodiments, the third and fourth resistance heating layers are not spaced apart from each other by a second spacer, for example, the third and fourth resistance heating layers are spaced apart from each other by means other than a spacer.

[0179] The first and fourth resistance heating layers 2402 and 2406 are arranged such that their resistance heating elements and the aerosol generating layer deposited thereon face inward. The second and third resistance heating layers 2404 and 2405 are arranged such that their resistance heating elements and the aerosol generating layer deposited thereon face outward.

[0180] The cover 2412 is wrapped around all of the above-mentioned components to define the outer surface of the aerosol product 300.

[0181] Figure 25A shows a cutaway perspective view of an alternative aerosol product 300 having multiple airflow paths. The aerosol product 300 may be the same as the aerosol product 300 described in relation to Figure 24. The aerosol product 300 comprises a first aerosol generator 304, a second aerosol generator 304, and a cover 2506. The cover 2506 is entirely optional and can be omitted. It should be noted that the components described in relation to the aerosol product 300 of Figure 24 may also be considered as the aforementioned features of the aerosol product 300. For example, the first and fourth resistance heating layers 2402, 2406 may be considered as the second aerosol generator 304. Similarly, the second and third resistance heating layers 2404, 2405 may be considered as the first aerosol generator 304.

[0182] The first aerosol generator 304 is the aerosol generator 304 described with respect to Figures 17 to 19. In other words, the first aerosol generator 304 may be considered as a double-sided outward-facing aerosol generator. The second aerosol generator 304 is the aerosol generator 304 described with respect to Figures 20 to 22. In other words, the second aerosol generator 304 may be considered as a two-layer inward-facing aerosol generator. The first aerosol generator 304 is positioned between the resistance heating layers of the second aerosol generator 304. Each of the resistance heating layers of the first aerosol generator 304 is spaced apart from and opposite to each of the resistance heating layers of the second aerosol generator 304. The first aerosol generator 304 and the second aerosol generator 304 are combined to define the first airflow path 2508 and the second airflow path 2510. The first airflow path 2508 is defined by the respective resistance heating layers of the first aerosol generator 304 and the opposing resistance heating layers of the second aerosol generator 304. Similarly, the second airflow path 2510 is also defined by the respective resistance heating layers of the first aerosol generator 304 and the opposing resistance heating layers of the second aerosol generator 304. All first and second types of electrical contacts of the first and second aerosol generators 304 are located on the longitudinal edge of the article 300.

[0183] Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 18, the article 300 further comprises an opening 2516. The opening 2516 has the same characteristics and functions as the opening described above in relation to Figure 18. Therefore, a repeated description of the opening 2516 is omitted.

[0184] Advantageously, each of the above arrangements allows for the storage of increased amounts of aerosol in the article without significantly increasing the size of the article. For example, this may allow for the storage of different flavors (e.g., on each resistance heating layer) within the same article. Furthermore, multiple airflow paths allow for a wider range of operating modes of the article. For example, by alternating the airflow paths with each user operation, the time each airflow path has to return to the environment / neutral state can be increased. Continuous use by the user can raise the temperature of the airflow paths (from continuous heating) and / or result in residual particulate matter. By alternating the airflow paths between uses, the temperature can be returned to the environment level and / or residual particulate matter can be dispersed. Thus, this arrangement allows for improved performance.

[0185] The first and second types of electrical contacts 2512 of the first aerosol generator 304 are longitudinally offset from the first and second types of electrical contacts 2514 of the second aerosol generator 304. In this embodiment, the first and second types of electrical contacts of the first aerosol generator 304 extend longitudinally beyond the first and second types of electrical contacts of the second aerosol generator 304. Advantageously, this allows for the individual operation of each of the resistance heating elements in both the first and second aerosol generators without significantly complicating the connection to the power supply.

[0186] Figure 25B shows a perspective view of the aerosol product 300. The cover 2506 encloses the first and second external parts. Since the first and second external parts contain electrical contacts, the cover 2506 advantageously reduces or mitigates damage to the electrical contacts on the external parts, for example, during handling.

[0187] In the embodiments described above, there is only one first aerosol generator and only one second aerosol generator. In other embodiments, there is not only one first aerosol generator and only one second aerosol generator. In some embodiments, there may be multiple first aerosol generators positioned between the resistance heating layers of the second aerosol generator. In such embodiments, there may be at least two first aerosol generators or at least three airflow paths defined by one of the first aerosol generators and one of the second aerosol generators.

[0188] In some embodiments, the blank may have one or more openings, for example, at connection points, each corresponding to an inlet for each airflow path when the blank is formed into an aerosol generator. The arrangement described in relation to Figures 24-25 may be considered as a laminated configuration in which various layers (such as resistance heating layers or spacers) are stacked on top of each other. The lamination may be oriented perpendicular to the plane of one or more layers.

[0189] 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. An aerosol-generating segment generally comprises a solid material. Such a solid material may be shredded tobacco. For example, an aerosol-generating material arranged as an aerosol-generating segment may comprise a plurality of individual aerosol-generating material pieces. The aerosol-generating material may also comprise individual tobacco material pieces. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of strips, beads, or pellets. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment is a plug of material.

[0190] In the embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment comprises a material body. The aerosol-generating material is non-liquid. In such embodiments, the material body comprises a rod of aerosol-generating material, for example, a cigarette rod. For example, the material body may comprise shredded cigarette material. The material body may be formed into a rod. In some embodiments, the material body comprises cut rag cigarettes formed into a rod. The aerosol-generating material may comprise cigarette material. The aerosol-generating material may comprise extruded cigarettes. The aerosol-generating material may comprise reconstituted cigarettes.

[0191] The aerosol-generating material, formed as a solid material, may contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may contain tobacco, consist of tobacco, or be essentially composed of tobacco. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain tobacco.

[0192] In the embodiment, the aerosol generator is embedded in the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generator may at least partially protrude into the material body. In the embodiment, or alternatively, at least a portion of the aerosol generator material may be sandwiched between a first resistance heating layer and a second resistance heating layer. The aerosol generating material may extend between the first resistance heating layer and the second resistance heating layer.

[0193] 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 include a mouthpiece end. A tubular element may be positioned between the aerosol-generating material and the mouthpiece end. The article may include a ventilation area at the mouthpiece end. The mouthpiece end may define a mouthpiece configured to be positioned between the user's lips.

[0194] In any embodiment of the article described above, a 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 a 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 configurations, 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.

[0195] The aerosol-generating material may comprise the tobacco material described herein, which includes a tobacco component. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco component may include paper-reconstructed tobacco. The tobacco component may also include loose-leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and / or band-cast tobacco. The tobacco material may be provided in the form of shredded rag tobacco. Shredded 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 comprises paper-reconstructed tobacco, or a mixture of paper-reconstructed tobacco and loose-leaf tobacco. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco material may include a filler component. The filler component is generally a component that does not contain a non-tobacco component, i.e., a raw material derived from tobacco. The filler component may be a non-tobacco fiber such as wood fiber or pulp or wheat fiber. The filler component may also be an inorganic material such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, or magnesium carbonate. The filler component may also be a non-tobacco cast material or a non-tobacco extruded material. 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 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 flavoring agents from the aerosol-forming material. In general, any suitable aerosol-forming agent material or agent, including those described herein, may be included in the aerosol-forming material of the present invention.

[0196] 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 concentrated and optionally further processed) is recombined with fibrous material from the residue (usually purified and optionally with some non-tobacco fibers added) by depositing the extract onto the fibrous material. The recombination process is similar to the process of making paper.

[0197] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or to equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be used or 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. Article for an aerosol supply device, wherein the article is Aerosol generating materials and A first resistance heating layer comprising a first resistance heating element configured to heat the aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol generating material is located on the first resistance heating layer, A second resistance heating layer comprising a second resistance heating element configured to generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol generating material is located on the second resistance heating layer and Equipped with, An article in which 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.

2. The article comprises a first aerosol generating layer comprising an aerosol generating material, the first resistance heating layer comprising a first resistance heating element is configured to heat the aerosol generating material of the first aerosol generating layer to generate an aerosol, and the first aerosol generating layer is located on the first resistance heating layer. The article according to claim 1, wherein the article comprises a second aerosol generating layer comprising an aerosol generating material, the second resistance heating layer comprising a second resistance heating element is configured to heat the aerosol generating material of the second aerosol generating layer to generate an aerosol, and the second aerosol generating layer is located on the second resistance heating layer.

3. The article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first and second resistance heating elements extends from a common first type of electrical contact.

4. The first aerosol generation layer defines at least partially the first airflow path, The article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second aerosol-generating layer at least partially defines a second airflow path different from the first airflow path.

5. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first and second aerosol-generating layers are oriented in opposite directions to each other.

6. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first and second resistance heating layers are oriented in opposite directions to each other.

7. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first resistance heating layer and the second resistance heating layer are formed from a single material sheet.

8. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first resistance heating layer is bonded to the second resistance heating layer by a fold.

9. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first resistance heating layer comprises a plurality of first resistance heating elements, each of which is configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol.

10. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second resistance heating layer comprises a plurality of second resistance heating elements, each of which is configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol.

11. The first type of electrical contact comprises a plurality of electrical contacts, The article according to claim 10, as dependent on claim 9, wherein both the first resistive heating element and the second resistive heating element extend from one of the plurality of electrical contacts.

12. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a support layer between the first resistance heating layer and the second resistance heating layer.

13. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first and second resistance heating layers are substantially located at the center of the article.

14. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a first cover positioned apart from the first aerosol generating layer, wherein a first airflow path is defined between them.

15. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a second cover positioned apart from the second aerosol-generating layer, the second airflow path being defined between them.

16. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 15, an aerosol supply device configured to receive the aforementioned article and An aerosol generation system equipped with the following features.

17. A blank for forming an aerosol generating material, wherein the blank is A first part comprising a first resistance heating element configured to generate heat, A second part comprising a second resistance heating element configured to generate heat, The first type of electrical contact, The second type of electrical contact, A fold line placed between the first part and the second part and Equipped with, Each of the first and second resistance heating elements is at least part of the conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact. A blank in which, by folding the blank around the aforementioned fold line, the first and second portions each form layers in which the first and second resistance heating elements are oriented in opposite directions.

18. The blank according to claim 17, wherein the first type of electrical contact is common to both the first and second portions.

19. The first type of electrical contact is positioned between the first part and the second part. The blank according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the fold line is positioned on the first type of electrical contact.

20. A method for manufacturing an article, wherein the method is A step of providing a blank according to any one of claims 17 to 19, The steps include depositing an aerosol generating layer comprising the aerosol generating material onto the first and / or second portion so that the first and / or second resistance heating element can heat the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, The steps include folding the blank around the fold line and Methods that include...

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