Articles for aerosol supply devices

Abstract

An article for an aerosol supply device is provided. The article includes an aerosol generating segment (382) containing an aerosol generating material (302), a resistance heating configuration including a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element (342) configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, and a first type of electrical contact (360) and a second type of electrical contact (365). The resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact. The resistance heating configuration is in external and internal contact with the aerosol generating segment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an article for an aerosol supply device. The present invention also relates to an aerosol supply system, a method of forming an aerosol generator of an article for an aerosol supply device, an aerosol supply device, and a blank for forming an aerosol generator of an article for an aerosol supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco during use to generate tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are so-called "non-combustion heating" products or tobacco heating devices or products that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. 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 aforementioned devices or products are known. Common systems use a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by the user. Often, the medium used needs to be exchanged or changed to supply 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] According to one embodiment, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material; a resistance heating configuration including a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact, and the resistance heating configuration is in external contact with the aerosol generating segment and in internal contact with the aerosol generating segment.

[0005] In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises a support layer configured to support a resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises an aerosol generator comprising a resistance heating layer, a support layer, a first type of electrical contact, and a second type of electrical contact. In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the resistance heating configuration is embedded in an aerosol generating segment.

[0006] In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the resistance heating structure surrounds the aerosol generation segment at least partially. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in external contact with the aerosol generation segment and is in internal contact with the aerosol generation segment.

[0007] In any of the above embodiments, the external portion of the resistance heating element is in external contact with the aerosol generation segment, and the internal portion of the resistance heating element is in internal contact with the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating configuration comprises an internal portion of the resistance heating configuration that forms an internal contact portion with the aerosol generation segment, and an external portion of the resistance heating configuration that forms an external contact portion with the aerosol generation segment.

[0008] In any of the above embodiments, the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends into the aerosol generation segment, and the external portion of the resistance heating configuration at least partially surrounds the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends laterally from the external portion.

[0009] In any of the above embodiments, the article includes folds that form internal and external portions of the resistance heating configuration. In any of the above embodiments, the folds provide a first resistance heating panel and a second resistance heating panel. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel faces a first direction toward the aerosol-generating material, and the second resistance heating panel faces a second different direction toward the aerosol-generating material.

[0010] In any of the above embodiments, the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends radially inward from the external portion.

[0011] In any of the above embodiments, the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends radially inward from the fold. In any of the above embodiments, the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends circumferentially from the fold.

[0012] In any of the above embodiments, the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends perpendicularly from the external portion. In any of the above embodiments, the fold is a first fold and comprises a second fold, the second fold forming a section of the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration. In any of the above embodiments, the second fold is located within the aerosol generation segment.

[0013] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating configuration is folded at a second fold in the opposite direction to the first fold. In any of the above embodiments, the second fold provides a third resistance heating panel.

[0014] In any of the embodiments described above, the second fold is located between the second resistance heating panel and the third resistance heating panel. In any of the embodiments described above, the third resistance heating panel faces a direction toward the aerosol-generating material, different from that of the second resistance heating panel.

[0015] In any of the above embodiments, the second fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. In any of the above embodiments, the second fold extends parallel to the first fold. In the above embodiments, the resistance heating element extends across the second fold. In the above embodiments, the resistance heating element comprises a third resistance heating element portion. In the above embodiments, the third resistance heating element portion and the second resistance heating element portion are formed in series. In the above embodiments, the second fold forms a third support layer panel of the support layer.

[0016] In the above embodiment, the third resistance heating element portion is located on the third support layer panel of the support layer. In the above embodiment, the second and third support layer panels of the support layer extend in parallel. In the above embodiment, the second and third support layer panels of the support layer are attached to each other.

[0017] In the above embodiment, the internal support portion of the support layer extends within the aerosol-generating segment. In the above embodiment, the external support portion of the support layer extends around the aerosol-generating segment. In the above embodiment, the internal portion of the resistance heating layer is in direct contact with the aerosol-generating segment. In the above embodiment, the external portion of the resistance heating layer is in direct contact with the aerosol-generating segment. In the above embodiment, the support layer is separated from the aerosol-generating material by the resistance heating layer.

[0018] In the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are configured to engage with the device electrical connector of the aerosol supply device. In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact protrudes from the end of the aerosol generation segment. In any of the embodiments described above, each of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact protrudes from the end of the aerosol generation segment.

[0019] In any of the embodiments described above, the article has a mouth end and an opposite upstream end, and the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are located at the upstream end of the article.

[0020] In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact protrudes from the upstream end of the article. In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extends from the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration. In any of the embodiments described above, each of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extends from the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration.

[0021] In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extends from the external portion of the resistance heating configuration. In any of the embodiments described above, each of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extends from the external portion of the resistance heating configuration.

[0022] In any of the embodiments described above, one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extends from the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration, and the other of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extends from the external portion of the resistance heating configuration.

[0023] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol - generating material is sandwiched between a first resistive heating panel and a second resistive heating panel. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistive heating panel and the second resistive heating panel at least substantially surround the aerosol - generating material. In any of the above embodiments, a part of the aerosol - generating segment extends between the first resistive heating panel and the second resistive heating panel.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, the article defines a longitudinal axis and the resistive heating layer extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises a wrapper around the aerosol - generating segment. In any of the above embodiments, the wrapper extends around the length of the article. In any of the above embodiments, the wrapper surrounds the aerosol - generating segment. In any of the above embodiments, the wrapper is a paper or cardboard wrapper.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, the inner part of the resistive heating layer extends radially.

[0027] In any of the above embodiments, the resistive heating element is a first resistive heating element formed by an inner part of a resistive heating configuration, and the resistive heating configuration comprises a second resistive heating element formed by an outer part of the resistive heating configuration.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, each of the first resistive heating element formed by the inner part and the second resistive heating element formed by the outer part comprises one first type of electrical contact and one second type of electrical contact.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, the first resistive heating element formed by the inner part and the second resistive heating element formed by the outer part are formed by the resistive heating layer.

[0030] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for forming an article for an aerosol supply device, the method comprising: forming a resistive heating configuration comprising a resistive heating layer having a resistive heating element configured to heat at least a portion of an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; forming a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistive heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact; arranging an internal portion of the resistive heating configuration to be in contact with an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material; and arranging an external portion of the resistive heating configuration to be in contact with the aerosol generating segment.

[0031] According to one embodiment, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material; and an aerosol generator comprising: a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a support layer configured to support the resistance heating layer; a first type of electrical contact; and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact, and the resistance heating element is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol generating segment.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generation segment is at least substantially cylindrical. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is substantially planar.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer has a substantially tubular shape.

[0034] In any of the embodiments described above, the maximum extent of the aerosol-generating material that moves away from the resistance heating layer is less than the maximum radial dimension of the article.

[0035] In any of the above embodiments, the surface area of ​​the resistance heating layer in contact with the aerosol generation segment is greater than the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generation segment.

[0036] In any of the above embodiments, the planar area of ​​the material forming the resistance heating layer in contact with the aerosol generation segment is larger than the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generation segment.

[0037] In any of the above embodiments, the cross-sectional length of the resistance heating layer in contact with the aerosol generation segment is greater than the circumference of the aerosol generation segment.

[0038] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element extends at least substantially along the longitudinal length of the aerosol generation segment.

[0039] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element extends over at least a large portion of the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element extends over at least substantially the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment.

[0040] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element extends within the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element extends around the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol generation segment.

[0041] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer defines the heating surface area, and the heating surface area is at least 100 mm². 2 , optional, at least 200mm 2 , and optionally at least 300mm 2 That is the case.

[0042] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element comprises a single resistance heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises a single heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises a single first type electrical contact and a single second type electrical contact.

[0043] In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the resistance heating element is embedded in the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol generation segment at least partially.

[0044] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in external contact with the aerosol generation segment and is in internal contact with the aerosol generation segment.

[0045] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a resistance heating configuration including a resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, each of the internal and external portions of the resistance heating configuration comprises a resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the internal and external portions of the resistance heating configuration are integral. In any of the above embodiments, the internal and external portions are formed from a single sheet of material. In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contacts and the second type of electrical contacts are formed from a single sheet of material.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration comprises at least the internal portion of the resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the external portion of the resistance heating configuration comprises at least the external portion of the resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the external portion of the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, each of the internal and external portions of the resistance heating configuration comprises a support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the internal and external portions of the resistance heating configuration are separate elements.

[0047] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising any of the articles described above and an aerosol supply device configured to receive the articles.

[0048] In any of the embodiments described above, the system is configured to operate a resistance heating element to allow multiple smokes to be inhaled by the user.

[0049] In any of the above embodiments, the system is configured to operate a resistive heating element through multiple smokes inhaled by the user.

[0050] According to one embodiment, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material; and an aerosol generator comprising: a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a support layer configured to support the resistance heating layer; a first type of electrical contact; and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact, and has folds forming a first portion of the resistance heating element in contact with the aerosol generating segment and a second portion of the resistance heating element in contact with the aerosol generating segment.

[0051] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact is located on the first side of the fold, and the second type of electrical contact is located on the second side of the fold.

[0052] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact extends from a first portion of the resistive heating element, and the second type of electrical contact extends from a second portion of the resistive heating element.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for forming an article for an aerosol supply device, the method comprising: forming a resistive heating layer comprising a resistive heating element configured to heat at least a portion of an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol; a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistive heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact; and positioning the resistive heating layer in contact with an aerosol-generating segment comprising an aerosol-generating material, wherein the resistive heating element is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol-generating segment.

[0054] According to one embodiment, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material; and an aerosol generator comprising: a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a support layer configured to support the resistance heating layer; a first type of electrical contact; a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact, and at least a portion of the resistance heating element is embedded in the aerosol generating segment.

[0055] In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the support layer is embedded in the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the resistance heating element protrudes into the aerosol generation segment.

[0056] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are configured to engage with the device electrical connector of the aerosol supply device. In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are exposed.

[0057] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact protrude from the end of the aerosol-generating segment. In any of the embodiments described above, the article has a mouth end and an opposite upstream end, and the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are located at the upstream end of the article.

[0058] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact protrude at the upstream end. In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are terminated so as to be substantially flush with the upstream end of the aerosol generation segment.

[0059] In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact is retracted into the aerosol generation segment.

[0060] In any of the above embodiments, the article has a void at its upstream end, and the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extend within the void. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is substantially planar. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator is spaced apart from the packaging material. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer extends between diametrically opposed surfaces of the packaging material.

[0061] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is in direct contact with the aerosol generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a first resistance heating panel and a second resistance heating panel. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel and the second resistance heating panel extend parallel to each other. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel and the second resistance heating panel sandwich a support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel is on the first side of the support layer, and the second resistance heating panel is on the second side of the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer comprises a first resistance heating panel and a second resistance heating panel.

[0062] In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel and the second resistance heating panel are integral. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel and the second resistance heating panel are formed from a single sheet of material. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel and the second resistance heating panel form a resistance heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element extends between the first resistance heating panel and the second resistance heating panel. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is a first resistance heating layer comprising the first resistance heating panel, and the aerosol generator comprises a second resistance heating layer comprising the second resistance heating panel.

[0063] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is a first resistance heating element, and the second resistance heating panel comprises a second resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol.

[0064] In any of the above embodiments, the second resistance heating panel is electrically isolated from the first resistance heating element.

[0065] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes folds for providing a first resistance heating panel and a second resistance heating panel. In any of the above embodiments, the first resistance heating panel faces a first direction toward the aerosol generating material, and the second resistance heating panel faces a second different direction toward the aerosol generating material.

[0066] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact extends from the first resistance heating panel, and the second type of electrical contact extends from the second resistance heating panel. In any of the above embodiments, the fold extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In any of the above embodiments, the fold forms the end of the aerosol generator.

[0067] In any of the above embodiments, the fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. In the above embodiments, the resistance heating element extends across the fold. In the above embodiments, the resistance heating element comprises a first resistance heating element portion on the first side of the fold and a second resistance heating element portion on the second side of the fold.

[0068] In the above embodiment, the first resistance heating element portion and the second resistance heating element portion are formed in series. In the above embodiment, the folds form the first support layer panel and the second support layer panel of the support layer. In the above embodiment, the first resistance heating element portion is on the first support layer panel of the support layer, and the second resistance heating element portion is on the second support layer panel of the support layer. In the above embodiment, the first support layer panel and the second support layer panel of the support layer extend in parallel. In the above embodiment, the first support layer panel and the second support layer panel of the support layer are attached to each other. In the above embodiment, the article comprises a wrap. In the above embodiment, the wrap includes a resistance heating layer. In the above embodiment, the outer portion of the resistance heating configuration forms the wrap.

[0069] In the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises an electrical contact panel having at least one of a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, and a resistance heating panel having a resistance heating element. In the above embodiments, folds form the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel are integral. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel are formed from a single sheet of material. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel extend parallel to each other.

[0070] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel sandwich a portion of the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel is on the first side of the support layer, and the electrical contact panel is on the second side of the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the electrical contact panel comprises a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0071] In any of the embodiments described above, the electrical contact panel is a first electrical contact panel having a first type of electrical contact, and the fold forms a second electrical contact panel having a second type of electrical contact.

[0072] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact extends to the first edge of the resistance heating layer, and the second type of electrical contact extends to the second edge of the resistance heating layer.

[0073] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extend adjacent to each other. In any of the above embodiments, the first edge and the second edge extend parallel to each other. In any of the above embodiments, the fold extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In any of the above embodiments, the fold forms the end of the aerosol generator. In any of the above embodiments, the fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0074] In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the electrical contact surfaces of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact faces outward away from the aerosol-generating material, and the heating contact surface of the resistance heating element panel faces the aerosol-generating material.

[0075] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for forming an article for an aerosol supply device, the method comprising: forming a resistance heating layer comprising a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol; a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact; and embedding the resistance heating layer in an aerosol-generating segment comprising an aerosol-generating material.

[0076] According to one embodiment, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material; a resistance heating layer comprising a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a support layer configured to support the resistance heating layer; a first type of electrical contact; a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact, and comprises folds forming a first portion of the resistance heating element and a second portion of the resistance heating element that contact the aerosol generating segment.

[0077] According to one embodiment, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising an aerosol generator comprising an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generator comprising a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, a support layer configured to support the resistance heating layer, a first type of electrical contact, and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact, and at least a portion of the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol generating segment at least partially.

[0078] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol-generating segment is surrounded by a resistance heating layer. In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact is located outside the aerosol-generating segment.

[0079] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are configured to engage with the device electrical connector of the aerosol supply device.

[0080] In any of the embodiments described above, the article comprises a wrap, the wrap includes a resistance heating layer.

[0081] In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises a substrate having a resistance heating layer and a support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the substrate forms a sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the sheet material is in the form of a wrap.

[0082] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is sandwiched between the aerosol generating segment and the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol generating segment at least partially. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating segment is surrounded by the resistance heating element.

[0083] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element extends at least substantially along the entire longitudinal range of the aerosol generation segment.

[0084] In any of the embodiments described above, the article has a mouth end and an opposite upstream end, and the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are located at the upstream end of the article.

[0085] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a fold that forms an electrical contact panel having at least one of a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, and a resistance heating panel having a resistance heating element.

[0086] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer has a substantially tubular shape. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel are integral. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel are formed from a single sheet of material.

[0087] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel extend parallel to each other. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel and the electrical contact panel are sandwiched between a support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating panel is on the first side of the support layer, and the electrical contact panel is on the second side of the support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the electrical contact panel comprises a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0088] In any of the embodiments described above, the electrical contact panel is a first electrical contact panel having a first type of electrical contact, and the fold forms a second electrical contact panel having a second type of electrical contact.

[0089] In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contact extends to the first edge of the resistance heating layer, and the second type of electrical contact extends to the second edge of the resistance heating layer.

[0090] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact extend adjacent to each other.

[0091] In any of the above embodiments, the first edge and the second edge extend parallel to each other. In any of the above embodiments, the fold extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In any of the above embodiments, the fold forms the end of the aerosol generator. In any of the above embodiments, the fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. In the above embodiments, the fold forms the first support layer panel and the second support layer panel of the support layer.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the resistance heating element panel is located on a first support layer panel of the support layer, and the electrical contact panel is located on a second support layer panel of the support layer.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the first support layer panel and the second support layer panel of the support layer extend in parallel.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the first support layer panel and the second support layer panel of the support layer are attached to each other. In the above embodiment, the first support layer panel and the second support layer panel of the support layer are bonded together.

[0095] In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the electrical contact surfaces of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact faces outward away from the aerosol generation segment, and the heating contact surface of the resistance heating element panel faces inward toward the aerosol generation material.

[0096] In any of the above embodiments, the electrical contact panel surrounds the aerosol generation segment. In any of the above embodiments, the electrical contact panel overlaps the resistance heating element panel. In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises packaging material surrounding a portion of the resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the packaging material covers at least a portion of the resistance heating element panel. In any of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the electrical contact panel is not surrounded by packaging material. In any of the above embodiments, the edge of the electrical contact panel abuts against the edge of the packaging material.

[0097] In any of the above embodiments, the electrical contact panel is on the same outer surface as the packaging material. In any of the above embodiments, the first type of electrical contacts and the second type of electrical contacts are exposed. In any of the above embodiments, the packaging material is made of paper or cardboard. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator is in contact with the packaging material. In any of the above embodiments, the packaging material forms the outer layer of the article.

[0098] In any of the above embodiments, the support layer comprises at least one of paper and card. In any of the above embodiments, the support layer is a sheet material. In any of the above embodiments, the support layer is electrically insulating. In any of the above embodiments, the support is thermally insulating. In any of the above embodiments, the support layer is thermally conductive. In any of the above embodiments, the surface of the support layer does not include a resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the surface of the support layer does not come into contact with the aerosol-generating material.

[0099] In any of the embodiments described above, the support layer has a thickness of less than 150 microns, and optionally about 120 microns.

[0100] In any of the embodiments described above, the support layer has a thickness of less than 50 microns, optionally 20 to 40 microns, and optionally about 30 microns.

[0101] In any of the above embodiments, the support layer is flexible. In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer and the support layer form a substrate. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a laminate comprising a resistance heating layer and a support layer. In any of the above embodiments, the area of ​​the support layer corresponds to the area of ​​the resistance heating layer. In any of the above embodiments, the article defines a longitudinal axis, and the resistance heating layer extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0102] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol generator extends around the longitudinal axis.

[0103] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating layer has a thickness of less than 10 microns, optionally 4 to 8 microns, and optionally about 6 microns.

[0104] In any of the above embodiments, the article is at least substantially cylindrical. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment is at least substantially cylindrical.

[0105] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of individual aerosol-generating material pieces. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be individual tobacco material pieces. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of strips, beads, or pellets. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment comprises a material body. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is non-liquid.

[0106] In any of the above embodiments, the material body comprises a tobacco rod. For example, the material body may include shredded tobacco material formed on a rod. In some embodiments, the material body includes loose rag tobacco formed on a rod. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes tobacco material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes extruded tobacco. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes reconstituted tobacco.

[0107] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes shredded tobacco. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is a solid material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes nicotine. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes tobacco, consists of tobacco, or essentially consists of tobacco. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain tobacco.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the aerosol-generating segment comprises a rod of aerosol-generating material. The rod of aerosol-generating material may be a tobacco rod. In the above embodiment, heating of the article results in a relatively constant release of volatile compounds into an inhalable medium. In the above embodiment, the aerosol-generating segment is a plug of material.

[0109] In the above embodiments, the article comprises a mouth section. In the above embodiments, the article comprises a tubular element disposed between the aerosol-generating material and the mouth section. In the above embodiments, the article comprises a ventilation region in the mouth section. In the above embodiments, the mouth section is configured to be placed between the lips of the user.

[0110] In the above embodiment, the aerosol-generating material, the tubular element, and the end section are bound together by a packaging material. In the above embodiment, the end section is formed from a fibrous material. The fibrous material may be filamentous tow. The filamentous tow may be cellulose acetate. The article may include a filtration section disposed between the tubular element and the end section. The filtration section may be formed from a fibrous material. The fibrous material may be filamentous tow. The filamentous tow may be cellulose acetate.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the resistance heating element is formed by at least one of the following steps: cutting the resistance heating layer, chemically etching the resistance heating layer, forming or press-forming the resistance heating layer, and printing the resistance heating layer. Cutting may include die-cutting. The resistance heating element may also be formed by an action applied only to the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element may also be formed by an action applied to both the resistance heating layer and the support layer, for example, an action that cuts both the resistance heating layer and the support layer.

[0112] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer forms at least a portion of the resistance heating element.

[0113] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer has a gap, which forms at least a portion of the resistance heating element. In any of the above embodiments, the gap forms an electrical insulation barrier. In any of the above embodiments, the gap forms an insulating barrier. In any of the above embodiments, the support layer does not have a gap. In any of the above embodiments, the gap extends through both the support layer and the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the gap is a fill gap having, for example, an insulating material.

[0114] In any of the above embodiments, a resistance heating layer comprising a resistance heating element is pre-formed and applied to the support layer.

[0115] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer comprising the resistance heating element is formed on the support layer.

[0116] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is a first heating element, the resistance heating layer forms a second resistance heating element, and each resistance heating element provides a conductive path for resistance heating a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol in each portion of the aerosol generating layer.

[0117] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a single resistance heating element.

[0118] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in the form of a foil.

[0119] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for forming an article for an aerosol supply device, the method comprising: forming a resistance heating layer comprising a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol; a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact; and at least partially surrounding an aerosol-generating segment with the resistance heating layer.

[0120] According to one embodiment, a non-combustible aerosol supply system is provided, wherein the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol generating material heating system, and optionally the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a tobacco heating system.

[0121] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generator for an article in an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating segment containing an aerosol generating material; a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a first type of electrical contact; and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistance heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact.

[0122] According to one embodiment, an article for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising any of the above-described aerosol generators.

[0123] According to one embodiment, any of the articles described above, which are consumables for an aerosol generation system, are provided.

[0124] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply device is provided that is configured to receive an article for any of the above-described aerosol generators or aerosol supply devices.

[0125] According to one embodiment, an article as described above and an aerosol supply device configured to receive the article are provided.

[0126] According to one embodiment, a blank for forming an aerosol generator for any of the articles described above is provided.

[0127] Next, various embodiments will be described as mere examples, with reference to the attached schematic diagram. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0128] [Figure 1] This is a schematic side view of an aerosol supply system including an aerosol supply device and articles. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an article containing aerosol-generating material for an aerosol supply system. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the article. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram of an aerosol supply system, such as the system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the heating element of the aerosol generator. [Figure 6] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the aerosol generator. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of the aerosol generation layer for use in the aerosol generator. [Figure 8] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of another aerosol generator in the aerosol supply system. [Figure 9] This is a schematic perspective view of the aerosol-generating layer of an article. [Figure 10] This is a schematic perspective view of the aerosol-generating layer of an article. [Figure 11] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown. [Figure 12] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 6. [Figure 13] This is a schematic perspective view of the resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 14] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 6. [Figure 15] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 6. [Figure 16] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 6. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0129] As used herein, the term “delivery mechanism” is intended to encompass systems for delivering substances to a user, and includes non-combustible aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without burning the materials, such as hybrid systems for generating aerosols using a combination of electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and aerosolizable materials, and articles containing aerosolizable materials configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol supply systems.

[0130] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol-generating materials (or their components) that make up the aerosol supply system are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0131] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system for generating aerosols 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system (such as its non-combustible aerosol supply device) may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source.

[0138] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system may include a consumable receiving area, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0139] 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.

[0140] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to aerosol modifier release components such as filters, filter rods, filter segments, tobacco rods, spills, capsules, threads, or beads, or components for use in a combustion-type aerosol supply system such as plug wraps, tip paper, or cigarette paper. According to the disclosure, a “non-combustion-type” aerosol supply system is a system in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components thereof) of the aerosol supply system are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0141] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” (which may be referred to herein as “aerosolizable material”) is a material that can generate an aerosol when heated, irradiated, or electrically charged, for example, by any other means. 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.

[0142] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0143] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0144] 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.

[0145] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating film, or may be in the form of an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may also be present. The aerosol-generating film may not contain substantially any plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco-free.

[0146] 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.

[0147] The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may include a continuous sheet of material, or it may be a continuous sheet of material.

[0148] 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.

[0149] In the embodiment, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of aerosol-generating films. In the embodiment, the aerosol-generating film comprises a plurality of aerosol-generating film regions. Such plurality of aerosol-generating films and / or plurality of aerosol-generating film regions may have different properties, such as different compositions, thicknesses, densities, active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0150] The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder such as a gelling agent with one or more other components such as a solvent such as water, an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more substances to be delivered to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least a portion of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film.

[0151] The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent.

[0152] The aerosol-generating material may be an amorphous solid. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid is a monolithic solid. The aerosol-generating material may be non-fibrous or fibrous. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be a dry gel. The aerosol-generating material may be a solid material capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. 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.

[0153] 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, a mixture of diacetins, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyline, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0154] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of the following: pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0155] 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 include these.

[0156] An aerosol supply device can accept an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, “article” refers to an article that, when used, includes or contains an aerosol-generating material that is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally other components when used. The user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol supply device before the article is heated to generate an aerosol and the user inhales the aerosol.

[0157] 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 cause the aerosol-generating material to receive thermal energy in order to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol.

[0158] Consumables are articles containing or 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 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 a conductor that can be heated by the passage of an electric current through it.

[0159] 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 source and a controller (or control circuit). The power source 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.

[0160] 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 containing an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol supply device has a tubular configuration for receiving the article 300. In this embodiment, the device 200 has a circular cross-section, i.e., the device 200 is cylindrical. Other forms are also conceivable. 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, for example, in Figures 3, 6, and 8.

[0161] As shown in Figures 1 to 10, the article 300 is shown in a cylindrical configuration. Although the article 300 in Figures 1 to 10 is shown in a cylindrical form having a substantially circular cross-section, it will be understood that the cylindrical or tubular shape is not limited to a circular cross-section and may include other shapes of the article. The formation of any of the above embodiments of the aerosol generator 304 may include moving a planar configuration into a tubular configuration.

[0162] Article 300 may have a planar configuration such that 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, and other configurations are also conceivable in which the length is greater than or equal to the width and the width is greater than the depth.

[0163] 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.

[0164] The aerosol generator 304 includes a resistance heating layer 340 and a resistance heating element 342, which are described in detail below.

[0165] Article 300 comprises an aerosol generating segment 382. The aerosol generating segment 382 contains an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generating segment is in fluid communication with a tubular member 380, through which, during use, when the user operates the system 100 and inhales through the mouthpiece 310, the aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating material 302 passes (see Figure 4). The tubular member 380 may be made of paper or card. An aerosol generator 304 is positioned to heat the aerosol generating segment 382. A resistance heating layer 340 is positioned together with the aerosol generating segment 382.

[0166] The aerosol generating material 302 may be in the form of a rod. In embodiments such as those shown in Figures 2 and 3, the rod is wrapped in a plug wrap. In these embodiments, the plug wrap is a non-porous plug wrap. Other embodiments in which the plug wrap is porous are also conceivable. In these embodiments, the rod is wrapped in an aerosol generator 304, for example, as shown in Figure 8.

[0167] The aerosol generating material 302 may include tobacco materials, such as those described herein, which include tobacco components.

[0168] In the tobacco materials 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.

[0169] The aerosol-generating material 302 may include reconstituted tobacco material having a density of less than approximately 700 milligrams / cubic centimeter (mg / cc). Such tobacco material has been found to be particularly effective in providing an aerosol-generating material that can be rapidly heated to release aerosols compared to denser materials.

[0170] The tobacco material may be provided in the form of shredded rag tobacco. The shredded rag tobacco can be formed from a mixture of tobacco materials, for example, a mixture of one or more of paper-reconstructed tobacco, loose leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and band-cast tobacco.

[0171] In embodiments, the tobacco material comprises paper-reconstructed tobacco or a mixture of paper-reconstructed tobacco and leaf tobacco. In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco material may contain filler components. Filler components are generally non-tobacco components, i.e., components that do not contain raw materials derived from tobacco. Filler components may be non-tobacco fibers such as wood fibers or pulp or wheat fibers. Filler components may also be inorganic materials such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, or magnesium carbonate. Filler components may also be non-tobacco cast materials or non-tobacco extruded materials. Filler components 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, filler components are absent. In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco material contains an aerosol-forming agent material. In this context, “aerosol-forming agent material” is an agent that promotes the formation of aerosols. Aerosol-forming agent materials can facilitate aerosol formation by promoting the initial vaporization and / or condensation of gases into inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosols.

[0172] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming agent material can improve the delivery of flavorings from the aerosol-generating material. Generally, any suitable aerosol-forming agent material or agent, including those described herein, may be included in the aerosol-generating material of the present invention.

[0173] Other suitable aerosol-forming materials include, but are not limited to, sorbitol, glycerol, polyols such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol, non-polyols such as monohydric alcohols, high-boiling hydrocarbons, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as diacetin, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, or myristic acid including ethyl myristate and isopropyl myristate, and aliphatic carboxylic acid esters such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanediate, and dimethyl tetradecanediate. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material may be glycerol, propylene glycol, or a mixture of glycerol and propylene glycol. Glycerol may be present in an amount of 10 to 20% by weight of the tobacco material, for example, 13 to 16% by weight of the composition, or about 14% or 15% by weight of the composition. Propylene glycol, if present, may be present in an amount of 0.1 to 0.3% by weight of the composition.

[0174] The aerosol-forming agent material may be included in any component of the tobacco material, for example, any tobacco component and / or filler component, if present. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming agent material may be added separately to the tobacco material. In any case, the total amount of the aerosol-forming agent material in the tobacco material may be as defined herein.

[0175] The tobacco material may contain 10% to 90% by weight of tobacco leaves, and the aerosol-forming agent material is provided in an amount of up to approximately 10% by weight of tobacco leaves. To achieve an overall level of 10% to 20% by weight of aerosol-forming agent material in the tobacco material, it has been found that preferably the aerosol-forming agent material can be added in a higher weight percentage relative to other components of the tobacco material, such as reconstituted tobacco material. The tobacco material described herein contains nicotine. The nicotine content is 0.5% to 1.75% by weight of the tobacco material, and may be, for example, 0.8% to 1.5% by weight of the tobacco material. Additionally or alternatively, the tobacco material may contain 10% to 90% by weight of tobacco leaves with a nicotine content of more than 1.5% by weight of tobacco leaves. Preferably, it has been found that using tobacco leaves with a nicotine content higher than 1.5% in combination with a lower nicotine base material, such as paper reconstituted tobacco, provides a tobacco material with a suitable nicotine level but with better sensory performance than using paper reconstituted tobacco alone. Tobacco leaves, such as shredded rag tobacco, can have a nicotine content of, for example, 1.5% to 5% by weight of the tobacco leaves.

[0176] The tobacco materials described herein may contain aerosol modifiers, such as any of the flavoring agents described herein. In one embodiment, the tobacco material contains menthol to form a menthol-containing article.

[0177] In the compositions described herein, where amounts are given in weight percent, to avoid misunderstanding, this refers to a dry weight basis unless otherwise indicated. Therefore, any water that may be present in the tobacco material or any of its components is completely ignored for the purpose of determining the weight percent. The moisture content of the tobacco materials described herein may vary, for example, from 5 to 15% by weight. The moisture content of the tobacco materials described herein may vary, for example, depending on the temperature, pressure, and humidity conditions under which the composition is maintained. The moisture content can be determined by Karl Fischer analysis, as is known to those skilled in the art.

[0178] On the other hand, to avoid misunderstanding, even when the aerosol-forming material is a liquid-phase component such as glycerol or propylene glycol, any component other than water is included in the weight of the tobacco material. However, when the aerosol-forming material is given in the tobacco component of the tobacco material or in addition to the filler component of the tobacco material (if present), instead of being added separately to the tobacco material, the aerosol-forming material is not included in the weight of the tobacco component or filler component, but is included in the weight of the “aerosol-forming material” in weight % as defined herein. All other raw materials present in the tobacco component are included in the weight of the tobacco component, even if they are non-tobacco derived (e.g., non-tobacco fibers in the case of paper-reconstructed cigarettes).

[0179] In one embodiment, the tobacco material comprises tobacco components as defined herein and aerosol-forming agent materials as defined herein. In one embodiment, the tobacco material essentially consists of tobacco components as defined herein and aerosol-forming agent materials as defined herein. In one embodiment, the tobacco material consists of tobacco components as defined herein and aerosol-forming agent materials as defined herein.

[0180] Paper-reconstructed tobacco is present in the tobacco components of the tobacco material described herein in an amount of 10% to 100% by weight of the tobacco components. In embodiments, paper-reconstructed tobacco is present in an amount of 10% to 80% by weight, or 20% to 70% by weight, of the tobacco components. In further embodiments, the tobacco components consist essentially of or comprise paper-reconstructed tobacco. In embodiments, leaf tobacco is present in the tobacco components of the tobacco material in an amount of at least 10% by weight of the tobacco components. For example, leaf tobacco may be present in an amount of at least 10% by weight of the tobacco components, and the remainder of the tobacco components may include paper-reconstructed tobacco, band-cast reconstructed tobacco, or a combination of band-cast reconstructed tobacco and another form of tobacco such as tobacco granules.

[0181] 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.

[0182] Paper recombination cigarettes may be any type of paper recombination cigarette known in the art. In certain embodiments, paper recombination cigarettes are made from raw materials comprising one or more of tobacco strips, tobacco stalks, and whole tobacco leaves. In further embodiments, paper recombination cigarettes are made from raw materials comprising tobacco strips and / or whole tobacco leaves, as well as tobacco stalks. However, in other embodiments, scraps, fine powder, and husks may be used as raw materials, either as an alternative or additional measure.

[0183] Paper-reconstructed tobacco for use with the tobacco materials described herein may be prepared by methods known to those skilled in the art for preparing paper-reconstructed tobacco.

[0184] The aerosol supply system 100 is elongated and extends 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 a user who inhales the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply system 100, and a distal end 104 furthest from the user when used. The aerosol supply device 200 shown in Figure 1 has a cylindrical shape. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the aerosol supply device 200 may have a square or rectangular shape.

[0185] The article 200 shown in Figure 2 also has a cylindrical form corresponding to the aerosol supply device 200. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the article 200 includes a planar form, i.e., the article 200 is a flat consumable.

[0186] The proximal end may also be called the “mouth end.” Thus, the aerosol delivery system 100 defines a proximal direction that is directed toward the user during use. Furthermore, the aerosol delivery 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 positioning of such features relative to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0187] 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 4, an article receiving portion 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 within the device chamber 206. The proximal end may also be called the “mouth end”. 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 the article 300. For example, the receptacle 208 is cylindrical to accommodate the cylindrical article 200, as described with reference to Figure 2.

[0188] One or more user-operable control elements 224, such as buttons or switches, may be provided on the aerosol supply device 200, 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. One or more user-operable control elements may be omitted. In embodiments, the aerosol supply system 100 is operated by another user action, for example, by smoke extraction performed by the user inhaling air through the system.

[0189] 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 an article 300 can be inserted through the opening 214. 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 on the longitudinal side wall of the device 200 and / or may be closed by another feature of the device 200 during use. In this configuration, the article 300 forms a mouthpiece 310 at the proximal end 308. In other embodiments, the device 200 forms the mouthpiece. The user places their mouth over the mouthpiece during use.

[0190] 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 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 article 300 is inserted into the device, and this axis may be considered the insertion axis.

[0191] The aerosol supply device 200 includes a power source 220. The power source 220 may be a battery, for example, a rechargeable battery. The device 200 also includes a control circuit 222 that functions as a controller, which includes a processor and memory.

[0192] As will be described in detail below, the heating system 110 is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material 302 of article 300. Article 300 in the embodiment is a consumable and interchangeable with other articles 300. The heating system 110 comprises an aerosol generator 304. The heating system 110 comprises article 300 and other components of the aerosol supply system 100, including components of the aerosol supply device 200, such as a power source 220 and a control circuit 222.

[0193] The aerosol generator 304 forms part of article 300. The aerosol generator 304 includes a heating element 312 configured to heat the aerosol-generating material 302. The aerosol-generating material 302 may be called an aerosolizable material.

[0194] 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 configuration, 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, and the resulting current flow within the heating element, which acts as a heating component, heats the heating element by Joule heating. The resistance heating element includes a resistance material configured to generate heat when a suitable current passes through the resistance heating element, and the heating component 312 includes electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistance material. Providing the resistance heating component 312 allows for a compact configuration. Resistance heating provides an efficient configuration.

[0195] In the use of the aerosol supply system 100, air is drawn into the upstream end 314 of the article 300, as indicated by arrow 316. The article comprises a mouth end 308 and an upstream end 314 on the opposite side. The airflow to the air inlet 314 of the article 300 may be formed 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 an embodiment, the aerosol outlet 318 is located within the mouth of the article 300 so that the aerosol is drawn directly from the article 300 into the mouth of the user of the system 100.

[0196] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol supply system comprises two main components: a control section forming a reusable portion and a consumable section forming a replaceable or disposable portion, which may be called a replaceable or disposable article or cartridge. As described herein, the aerosol supply device 200 forms the control section, and the article 300 forms the consumable section. In the use of the aerosol generation system, the control section and the consumable portion may be detachably connected at an interface. The consumable portion may be removable and replaceable, for example, when the consumable portion is used, and the control section may be reused with a different consumable portion.

[0197] The aerosol supply system 100 shown in the illustration 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.

[0198] As schematically shown in Figure 4 and described in detail below, article 300 has article electrical contact configuration 320. In this embodiment, the electrical contact configuration 320 is formed by the aerosol generator 304. The electrical contact configuration 320 comprises a heater electrical contact 322. The heater electrical contact 322 may also be known as a heater or article contact. The heater electrical contact 322 shown in Figure 4 extends from article 300. The heater electrical contact 322 extends from the upstream end of article 300. The heater electrical contact 322 protrudes from the upstream end of article 300. The aerosol supply device 200 comprises an electrical connector 230. The electrical connector 230 comprises 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.

[0199] The composition of article 300 may vary. As described herein, the article is cylindrical. The cylindrical article may be elongated in the longitudinal direction. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the article is flat, and for example, the exterior of article 300 may have a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and width, the length may be greater than or equal to the width, and the width may be greater than the depth.

[0200] Article 300 comprises a body 324. The body 324 includes components of article 300. The body 324 is cylindrical. The body 324 defines a channel 326 through which air and / or aerosols can flow in article 300.

[0201] The main body 324 includes a filter 317. The filter segment 317 may be formed of any filter material sufficient to remove one or more volatile compounds from the heated volatile components from the aerosol-generating material 302. In one example, the filter segment is made of a monoacetate material such as cellulose acetate. The filter segment provides cooling and irritation reduction of the heated volatile components without drastically reducing the amount of heated volatile components to a level unsatisfactory to the user.

[0202] The density of the cellulose acetate tow material in the filter segment 317 controls the pressure drop across the filter segment and also controls the suction resistance of article 300. Therefore, the selection of the material for the filter segment is important in controlling the suction resistance of article 300. In addition, the filter segment performs a filtration function within article 300.

[0203] In one example, the filter segment 317 is made of 8Y15 grade filter tow material, providing a filtering effect against heated volatile materials while also reducing the size of condensed aerosol droplets generated from the heated volatile materials.

[0204] The presence of the filter segment provides insulation by offering further cooling to the heated volatile components. This further cooling effect lowers the contact temperature of the user's lips on the surface of the filter segment. In one example, the length of the filter segment is 6mm to 10mm, and preferably 8mm.

[0205] The number of aerosol generators 304 may vary. The aerosol generating material 302 is located in the flow path 326. In one embodiment, article 300 comprises a single aerosol generator 304.

[0206] The aerosol-generating segment 382 is in contact with the tubular member 380. The components of the main body 324 are fixed by the packaging material 330. In this embodiment, the tubular member 380 is omitted.

[0207] The packaging material 330 is positioned around the aerosol-generating segment 362. In one embodiment, the packaging material extends around the length of the article 300. In one embodiment, the packaging material 330 surrounds the aerosol-generating segment. The packaging material 330 is made of paper or cardboard.

[0208] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, article 300 has a cylindrical shape. Other shapes, such as flat or tubular shapes, are also conceivable, and for example, the article may be square or rectangular.

[0209] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating segment 382 of article 300 as described with reference to Figure 2, according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, the aerosol generator 304 includes a resistance heating layer 340. The resistance heating layer 340 forms a resistance heating element 342 embedded in the aerosol-generating material 302.

[0210] In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol-generating segment 382 containing the aerosol-generating material 302. In the embodiment, the maximum extent of the aerosol-generating material 302 away from the resistance heating layer 340 is less than the maximum radial dimension of the article 300, for example, the maximum distance at which the aerosol-generating material 302 is positioned away from the resistance heating element 342 is less than the diameter of the article 300.

[0211] In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 extends at least substantially along the longitudinal length of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 extends at least a large portion of the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 extends at least substantially the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 extends within the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0212] Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of a resistance heating layer 340 comprising a resistance heating element 342, for example, in the aerosol generator 304 of Figures 3 and 10. Figure 5 shows one of the resistance heating elements 342. In this embodiment, 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. The resistance heating element 342 comprises a resistance heating path. The resistance heating path is formed by a conductive path. The resistance heating path is non-linear. The resistance heating path is folded. The configuration of the resistance heating path may vary. The electrical resistance of the heating element 342 may depend on the properties of the resistance heating path in the conductive layer, e.g., the length, width, thickness, and configuration of the path, as well as the material.

[0213] 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 configuration may be reversed. The first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365 constitute the heater electrical contact 322. The first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365 form at least a portion of the article electrical contact configuration 320.

[0214] 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 type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact.

[0215] 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.

[0216] As described in detail below, the conductive path of the resistive heating element 342 in the embodiment is created by forming at least one electrical insulation barrier 346 within the resistive heating layer 340. In the embodiment, the electrical insulation barrier 346 is formed by cutting an electrical insulation barrier limiting portion (i.e., an electrical insulation portion), such as a gap, channel, or slot, into a sheet formed of a conductive material to form the resistive heating layer 340. In the embodiment, the resistive heating layer 340 is pre-formed to form the resistive heating element 342 or each resistive heating element 342 and then applied to the support 350 (see Figure 11). In the embodiment, the resistive heating layer 340 is applied to the support 350 and then the resistive heating element 342 or each resistive heating element 342 is formed within the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating element 342 or each resistive heating element 342 forming the resistive heating layer 340 may be a printed heater. The insulation barrier may be an air gap. In the embodiment, the insulation barrier is, for example, a filled gap filled with insulating material. The barrier forms a barrier against electrical conduction across the barrier.

[0217] The support layer 350 is flexible. The support layer 350 may have a thickness of less than 150 microns. The thickness may be about 120 microns. Other embodiments with a thickness of less than 50 microns, for example 30 microns, are also conceivable. By providing the support layer in a packaging configuration and / or embedded configuration as described herein, it is possible to minimize the thickness of the support layer, which is primarily for providing support to the resistance heating layer during assembly, with additional support provided by the aerosol generating segment after assembly. The support layer may also be embedded within the aerosol generating segment 382.

[0218] The resistance heating elements 342 that form the resistance heating layer 340, or each resistance heating element 342, may be formed by a cutting action. The cutting may include die cutting. The resistance heating elements may be formed by an action applied only to the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the resistance heating elements may be formed by an action applied to both the resistance heating layer and the support layer, for example, an action that cuts the resistance heating layer and the support layer.

[0219] At least one electrical insulation barrier 346 forms a first type of electrical track 361 and a second type of electrical track 366.

[0220] In some embodiments, the tracks of the resistive heating element 342 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 a gap between tracks of less than approximately 0.25 mm (the same two exemplary prototypes have gaps of 0.2 mm and 0.05 mm, respectively). The resistive heating element 342 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 the resistive heating element 342 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 μm cm, the resistance of the path is calculated to be approximately 1 ohm. In one exemplary embodiment, the resistance was measured at 0.83 to 1.31 ohms.

[0221] Figure 6 shows a schematic perspective view of the aerosol generation segment 382 in Figures 2 and 3. The aerosol generator 304 is embedded within the aerosol generation segment 382. The resistance heating layer 340, and consequently the resistance heating element 342, are also embedded within the aerosol generation material 302. The resistance heating element 342 is surrounded by the aerosol generation material 302. The resistance heating element 342 and its constituent parts, as shown in Figure 5, are embedded in the aerosol generation material 302. The resistance heating element 342 may be in direct contact with the aerosol generation material.

[0222] The resistance heating layer 340 shown in Figure 6 is planar.

[0223] The first type of electrical contacts 360 and the second type of electrical contacts 365 of the resistance heating element 342 extend from the article 300. The first type of electrical contacts 360 and the second type of electrical contacts 365 extend from the upstream end of the article 300. The first type of electrical contacts 360 and the second type of electrical contacts 365 protrude from the upstream end of the article. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the first type of electrical contacts 360 and the second type of electrical contacts 365 terminate substantially flush with the upstream end of the aerosol generating segment 382. The first type of electrical contacts 360 and the second type of electrical contacts 365 may be retracted into the aerosol generating component 382 and the aerosol generating material 302. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material 302 may have a void at its upstream end, and the first type of electrical contacts 360 and the second type of electrical contacts 365 extend into the void. In this embodiment, the void is created by the packaging material 330 extending from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating segment 382.

[0224] In this embodiment, the resistance heating layer 340 forms a single resistance heating panel comprising a resistance heating element 342.

[0225] Article 300 defines a longitudinal axis. In embodiments such as that shown in Figure 6, the aerosol generator 304, the aerosol generating layer 340, and the resistance heating element 342 extend along the longitudinal axis.

[0226] In this embodiment, the aerosol generator 304 comprises a first panel 323 and a second panel 324 (see Figure 7). The first panel 323 and the second panel 324 may be arranged overlapping each other; for example, the lower surface of the first panel 323 may be directly adjacent to the lower surface of the second panel 324. The lower surfaces of panels 323 and 324 may extend parallel to each other. A resistance heating element 342 is directed toward the aerosol generating material 302.

[0227] In some embodiments, the panels may be integrated, as shown in Figure 7. In other embodiments, the panels are separate elements. The panels are formed from a single sheet 380. The panels are formed by folding the sheet along a fold 366 such that panel 323 faces in the opposite direction to panel 324. The fold 366 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the fold extends longitudinally with respect to the transverse axis.

[0228] The resistive heating element 342 extends across both panels 323 and 324. The resistive heating element 342 extends across the folds. In embodiments, each of panels 323 and 324 comprises a resistive heating element or multiple resistive heating elements 342. When each of panels 323 and 324 comprises a resistive heating element 342, the resistive heating elements 342 may be arranged in series.

[0229] Panels 323 and 324 are in direct contact with the aerosol-generating material. A support layer 350 is placed between the first panel 323 and the second panel 324. The support layer 350 may be thermally conductive and electrically insulating. Panels 323 and 324 are electrically insulated from each other.

[0230] In this embodiment, the folds form a first support layer panel and a second support layer panel of the support layer 350. In this embodiment, the first panel 323 is supported by the first support layer panel of the support layer 350, and the second panel 324 is supported by the second support layer panel of the support layer 350. The first and second support layer panels of the support layer may extend in parallel and may be attached to each other, for example, by adhesive.

[0231] In embodiments where only a single panel structure exists, one side of the heating structure having the resistance heating element 342 is in direct contact with the aerosol-generating material 302. In embodiments, the support layer is omitted so that both sides of the resistance heating element are exposed to the aerosol-generating material. In embodiments with folds, the support layer 350 is sandwiched between opposing panels, either in the portion where the heating element track extends on both sides, or, in embodiments, between opposing panels containing a separate resistance heating element. Thus, the panel area of ​​the resistance heating element 342 that can be in direct contact with the aerosol-generating material 302 is twice the area of ​​a single panel structure. Therefore, a double-panel configuration can result in increased heat transfer to the aerosol-generating material 302.

[0232] In this embodiment, each of the panels 323 and 324 may include a plurality of resistance heating elements 342.

[0233] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the first panel 323 is provided with a first type of electrical contact 360, and the second panel 324 is provided with a second type of electrical contact 365. In embodiments, the configuration may be reversed. In embodiments where the panels are not integrated and are not formed from a single sheet, each of the panels 324, 324 may be provided with at least one of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact.

[0234] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element 342 or each resistance heating element 342 is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol generating segment 382 containing the aerosol generating material 302. In any of the embodiments described above, the maximum extent of the aerosol generating material 302 away from the resistance heating layer 340 or each resistance heating layer 340 is less than the maximum radial dimension of the article 300, for example, the maximum distance at which the aerosol generating material 302 is positioned away from the resistance layer 340 is less than the diameter of the article 300.

[0235] The planar area of ​​the material forming the resistance heating layer 340 that comes into contact with the aerosol generation segment 382 is larger than the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0236] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element 342 or each resistance heating element 342 extends at least substantially along the longitudinal length of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element extends at least a large portion of the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element extends at least substantially the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 or each resistance heating element 342 extends within the aerosol generation segment.

[0237] Figure 8 shows a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 substantially surrounds the aerosol generation segment 382. The aerosol generator 304 includes a resistance heating layer 340. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the resistance heating layer 340 surrounds the aerosol generation segment 382 and, consequently, the aerosol generation material 302. The resistance heating layer 340 surrounds the aerosol generation segment 382. At least one resistance heater 342, as shown with reference to Figure 5, is positioned inward so as to face inward toward the aerosol generation material 302. The aerosol generator 304 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The aerosol generator 304 has a tubular shape having a circular cross-section.

[0238] In this embodiment, the resistance heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistance heating elements 342. The plurality of resistance heating elements 342 in this embodiment are connected in series.

[0239] The resistance heating layer 340 is folded such that at least one first type electrical contact 360 and a second type electrical contact 365 face outward away from the aerosol generating material 302. At least one first type electrical contact 360 and a second type electrical contact 365 are located at the upstream end of the aerosol generating segment 382. The fold extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and forms the end of the aerosol generator 304. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the fold extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. The upstream end is on the opposite side of the mouth end of the article 300.

[0240] When folded, the resistance heating layer 340 comprises a heating panel 368 having at least one resistance heating element 342, and an electrical contact panel 367 having at least one first type electrical contact 360 and a second type electrical contact 365. The folded aerosol generating layer 340 is wrapped around the aerosol generating material 302. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the resistance heating panel 368 and the electrical contact panel 367 are integrated. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the resistance heating panel 368 and the electrical contact panel 367 are separate elements that are electrically connected.

[0241] In the embodiment, the resistance heating layer 340 can be folded such that at least one first type of electrical contact 360 faces away from the aerosol generating material 302, at least one second type of electrical contact 365 faces the aerosol generating material 302, and / or contacts the aerosol generating material 302, or vice versa.

[0242] In this embodiment, the resistance heating panel 368 and the electrical contact panel 367 extend parallel to each other. The resistance heating panel 368 and the electrical contact panel 367 are separated by a support layer 350 (see Figure 11), i.e., the resistance heating panel 368 is on the first side of the support layer 350 and the electrical contact panel 367 is on the second side of the support layer 350.

[0243] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the electrical contact panel 367 surrounds the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0244] In this embodiment, the folds form a first support layer panel and a second support layer panel of the support layer 350. In this embodiment, the resistance heating element panel 368 is located on the first support layer panel of the support layer 350, and the electrical contact panel 367 is located on the second support layer panel of the support layer 350. The first and second support layer panels of the support layer may extend in parallel and may be attached to each other, for example, by adhesive.

[0245] Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the electrical contact panel 367 is a first electrical contact panel having a first type of electrical contact 360, and the folds form a second electrical contact panel having a second type of electrical contact 365.

[0246] In one embodiment, the electrical contact panel 367 overlaps the resistance heating element panel 368. In another embodiment, the article 300 includes packaging material that surrounds a portion of the resistance heating layer 340. In one embodiment, the packaging material covers at least a portion of the resistance heating element panel 368. In yet another embodiment, at least a portion of the electrical contact panel is not surrounded by the packaging material. In yet another embodiment, the edges of the electrical contact panel 367 abut against the edges of the packaging material.

[0247] Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the electrical contact panel 367 is located on the same outer surface as the packaging material. The first type of electrical contacts 360 and the second type of electrical contacts 365 may be substantially exposed.

[0248] In any of the above embodiments, the packaging material is made of paper or cardboard. The aerosol generator 382 may be in contact with the packaging material. In any of the above embodiments, the packaging material forms the outer layer of the article.

[0249] In this embodiment, the first type of electrical contact 360 extends to the first edge of the resistance heating layer 340, and the second type of electrical contact 365 extends to the second edge of the resistance heating layer 340. The first and second edges may extend parallel to each other. The first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365 may extend adjacent to each other, for example, as shown in Figure 8.

[0250] The aerosol-generating layer 340 substantially surrounds the aerosol-generating material 302 along its entire length. The resistance heating element 342 of the resistance heating panel 386 is positioned inward and, when in the packaging configuration, faces toward the aerosol-generating material 302. The aerosol-generating material can come into direct contact with the resistance heating element 342. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 extends at least substantially along the entire longitudinal range of the aerosol-generating segment 382.

[0251] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the wrap may surround the article 300 and form part of the article 300. The wrap may comprise a sheet. In the embodiment, the wrap may include a resistance heating layer 340. The wrap may function as a fixing sleeve.

[0252] In any of the embodiments described above with reference to Figure 8, for example, the resistance heating element 342 or each resistance heating element 342 is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol generating segment 382 containing the aerosol generating material 302. In any of the embodiments described above, the maximum extent of the aerosol generating material 302 away from the resistance heating layer 340 is less than the maximum radial dimension of the article 300, for example, the maximum distance at which the aerosol generating material 302 is positioned away from the resistance heating layer 340 is less than the diameter of the article 300.

[0253] In any of the embodiments described above, as shown with reference to Figure 8, for example, the resistance heating element 342 or each resistance heating element 342 extends at least substantially along the longitudinal length of the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0254] Any of the embodiments described above may be combined in an appropriate manner, for example, the embodiments described with reference to Figures 3, 6, and 7 may be combined with the embodiments described with reference to Figure 8. Article 300 may comprise, for example, a first aerosol generator 304 embedded in the aerosol generating material 302 according to the embodiments shown with reference to Figures 3, 5, 6, and 7, and article 300 may further comprise, for example, a second aerosol generator 304 surrounding the aerosol generating material 302 according to the embodiments shown with reference to Figure 8.

[0255] In embodiments, article 300 comprises a resistance heating configuration comprising an aerosol generator 304 and a resistance heating layer 340 of any of the embodiments described herein in any configuration or combination thereof. For example, the aerosol generator 304 as described with reference to Figures 3, 6, and 7 may be a separate element embedded within the aerosol generation segment 382, ​​while the aerosol generator 304 in Figure 8 may be a second separate element surrounding the aerosol generation segment 382, ​​as described in any of the embodiments described above. In embodiments, the resistance heating layers are integral with each other.

[0256] Figures 9 and 10 show further embodiments of the resistance heating configuration.

[0257] Figure 9 shows one embodiment of a resistance heating configuration in which the resistance heating layer 340 comprises two sections: a first section 340a and a second section 340b. The first section 340a and the second section 340b can be considered as a resistance heating configuration. The first section 340a is embedded in the aerosol generating material 302 when in use. The first section 340a comprises a first internal panel 388 and a second internal panel 387. The first internal panel 388 comprises at least one first type electrical contact 360. The second internal panel 387 comprises at least one second type electrical contact 365. In this embodiment, the configuration of the electrical contacts is reversed. The electrical contacts are located at the upstream end of the article 300 when in use.

[0258] In this embodiment, the first section 340a extends laterally from the first section 340b.

[0259] The first section 340a and the second section 340b are integral. In embodiments, the first section 340a and the second section 340b are formed from a single sheet of material. In such embodiments, at least one first type electrical contact 360 and a second type electrical contact 365 are formed from a single sheet of material.

[0260] The lower surface of the first internal panel 388 is adjacent to the lower surface of the second internal panel 387. The first internal panel and the second internal panel are separated by a support, such as a support 350.

[0261] The resistive heating element 342 extends from the first internal panel 388 of the first section 340a through the second section 340b to the second internal panel 387 of the first section 340a. Other embodiments with multiple resistive heating elements 342 are also conceivable; for example, the first internal panel 388 of the first section may comprise a resistive heating element, or the first internal panel 388 may comprise multiple heating elements 342. One or more resistive heating elements may extend across the second section 340b. The second internal panel 387 may comprise one or more resistive heating elements 342. Thus, in embodiments, one can consider a section 340b (corresponding to a third panel) comprising at least three resistive heating panels, a second internal panel 387, a first internal panel 388, and resistive heating elements.

[0262] The second section 340b surrounds the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0263] In this embodiment shown in Figure 9, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed from a single sheet. The sheet includes a first fold 385 for forming a second internal panel 387 of the first section 340a, and a second fold for forming the first internal panel of the second section 340b and the first section 340a. The sheet is folded along the longitudinal range of the aerosol generating layer 340 at folds 385 and 386. In the embodiment, the folds extend parallel to the longitudinal axis. In the embodiment, the folds extend over the longitudinal range of the aerosol generating layer 340.

[0264] In this embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 extends across one or each of the folds.

[0265] The resistance heating element 342 located in the second section 340b is in external contact with the aerosol generation segment 382. The resistance heating element 342 in the first section 340a is in internal contact with the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0266] The embodiment shown in Figure 10 illustrates a modified embodiment of the aerosol-generating layer 340 in Figure 9. The reference numerals in Figure 10 correspond to the same features as the corresponding reference numerals in Figure 9. The alternative embodiments described above with reference to Figure 9 also apply to Figure 10.

[0267] Figure 10 differs from Figure 9 in that the aerosol-generating layer 340 includes a first fold 389 and a second fold 390. In this embodiment, the fold 380 forms the first internal panel 388 and the second internal panel 387 of the first section. The second fold 390 forms the second section 340b. The sheet is folded along the longitudinal range of the aerosol-generating layer 340 at the folds 389 and 390.

[0268] Embodiments in Figures 9 and 10 show electrical contacts extending from the upper panel 388 and lower panel 387 of the first section 340a, but other embodiments are also envisioned in which the second section 340b is folded in a manner similar to the embodiments described above in relation to Figure 8, and at least one first type electrical contact 360 and a second type electrical contact 365 are positioned at the upstream end of the resistance heating layer so as to be oriented away from the aerosol-generating material. In this embodiment, the first internal panel 388 and the second internal panel do not have electrical contacts.

[0269] Other embodiments are also conceivable in which the first internal panel 388 or the second internal panel 387 has at least one electrical contact of the first or second type, and the second section 340b has at least one alternative type of electrical contact. For example, if the upper panel 388 or the lower panel 387 has the first type of electrical contact, the second section 340b has the second type of electrical contact. If the upper panel 388 or the lower panel 387 has the second type of electrical contact, the second section 340b has the first type of electrical contact.

[0270] In one embodiment, the first section 340a comprises a single panel having a single contact of the first type 360 ​​or the second type 365, and the second section 340b has a single contact of the first type 360 ​​or the second type 365.

[0271] In one embodiment, the first internal panel 388 and the second internal panel 387 of the first section 340a may have folds at their respective upstream ends to form a single electrical contact of type 360 ​​or type 365. In this embodiment, the first internal panel 388 and the second internal panel 387 are electrically connected. In this embodiment, the second panel 340b has an electrical contact of the opposite type to that of the first section 340a.

[0272] In embodiments where either the first internal panel 388 or the second internal panel 387 has at least one electrical contact, at least one electrical contact protrudes from the upstream end of the article. In embodiments where the second section 340b has at least one electrical contact, at least one electrical contact protrudes from the upstream end of the article. Other embodiments are also conceivable in which at least one (or all) electrical contacts terminate substantially flush with the upstream end of the aerosol-generating segment 382. At least one (or all) electrical contacts may be retracted within the aerosol-generating component 382. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material 302 may have a void at its upstream end, and at least one (or all) electrical contacts extend into the void.

[0273] The design freedom described above will be understood to provide flexibility in the design and placement of device electrical contacts within the aerosol generating device 200.

[0274] The resistance heating element 342, or each resistance heating element 342, as described in any embodiment with reference to Figures 9 and 10, is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol generating segment 382 containing the aerosol generating material 302. In any embodiment, the maximum extent of the aerosol generating material 302 away from the resistance heating layer 340 is less than the maximum radial dimension of the article 300, for example, the maximum distance at which the aerosol generating material 302 is positioned away from the resistance heating layer 340 is less than the diameter of the article 300.

[0275] In embodiments where the aerosol generation layer 340 (or a part thereof) is planar, the planar area of ​​the material forming the resistance heating layer 340 that contacts the aerosol generation segment 382 is larger than the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0276] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element 342 (or each resistance heating element 342) extends at least substantially along the longitudinal length of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element (or each resistance heating element) extends at least a large portion of the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 (or each resistance heating element 342) extends at least substantially the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 (or each resistance heating element 342) extends within the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0277] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating layer 340 has a thickness of less than 10 microns. Other embodiments with a thickness of 4 to 8 microns, or about 6 microns, are also conceivable. By providing the resistance heating layer in a packaging configuration and / or embedded configuration, as described above, it is possible to minimize the thickness of the resistance heating layer.

[0278] In any of the embodiments described above, the wrap may surround the article 300 and form part of the article 300. The wrap may comprise a sheet. The wrap functions as a fixing sleeve. The aerosol generator 304 of the embodiments described above, or each aerosol generator 304, may protrude from the wrap at its upstream end. The heater electrical contacts 322 are exposed at the upstream end.

[0279] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element or each resistance heating element is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol generating segment 382 containing the aerosol generating material 302. In any of the embodiments described above, the maximum extent of the aerosol generating material 302 away from the resistance heating layer 340 is less than the maximum radial dimension of the article 300, for example, the maximum distance at which the aerosol generating material 302 is positioned away from the resistance heating element 342 is less than the diameter of the article 300.

[0280] The area of ​​the material forming the resistance heating layer 340 that comes into contact with the aerosol generation segment 382 is larger than the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0281] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element 342 (or each resistance heating element 342) extends at least substantially along the longitudinal length of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element (or each resistance heating element) extends at least a large portion of the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment 382. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element (or each resistance heating element) extends at least substantially the diametrical width of the aerosol generation segment. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element 342 (or each resistance heating element 342) extends within the aerosol generation segment.

[0282] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating layer 340 defines a heating surface area, which is at least 100 mm². In the embodiments, the heating surface area is at least 200 mm², or at least 300 mm².

[0283] An example of the aerosol generator 304 is schematically shown in cross-section in Figure 11. The aerosol generator 304 is an embodiment of the aerosol generator 304 in any of the embodiments described above. In this embodiment, the surface area of ​​the resistance heating layer 340 in contact with the aerosol generation segment 382 is larger than the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0284] The aerosol generation segment 382 includes the aerosol generation material 302 described above. The aerosol generator 304 comprises a resistive heating layer 340 according to any of the above embodiments. The resistive heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer in the embodiment. The aerosol generation segment 382 is on the resistive heating layer 340. The aerosol generation segment 382 is in direct contact with the resistive heating layer 340. In an embodiment, the aerosol generation segment 382 is in indirect contact with the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating layer 340 may comprise a coating in an embodiment. As described in detail above with reference to FIG. 5, the resistive heating layer 340 comprises resistive heating elements 342. In an embodiment, the resistive heating layer comprises a plurality of resistive heating elements 342. The resistive heating element 342 or each resistive heating element 342 forms at least a part of a conductive path between a pair of electrical contacts 322. The resistive heating element 342 or each resistive heating element 342 provides a conductive path for resistively heating at least a part of the aerosol generation material 302 to generate an aerosol.

[0285] The resistive heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. This layer in an embodiment takes at least one form of a metal layer such as an aluminum layer or a non-metallic material such as graphene. The resistive heating layer 340 is in the form of a foil, for example an aluminum foil.

[0286] The aerosol generator 304 according to any of the above embodiments comprises a support 350. The support 350 in an embodiment includes paper or card material. The support 350 provides structural support for the aerosol generator 304. The resistive heating layer 340 is on the support 350. The support 350 is configured as a support layer. As shown in FIG. 11, in the aerosol generator 304, the resistive heating layer 340 is sandwiched between the support 350 and the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0287] The support 350 is electrically insulating. The resistive heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 form a substrate 352. The substrate 352 supports the aerosol generation segment 382.

[0288] Article 300 may include a laminate 354 comprising a resistance heating layer 340 and a support layer 350.

[0289] One or more of the aerosol generation segment 382, ​​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.

[0290] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing part of a method or algorithm for forming an aerosol generator 304, generally referred to as reference number 400, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0291] The method or algorithm 400 begins with step 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. When in use, the heating elements or each heating element may be used to provide a conductive path for resistively heating 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 applying the resistive heating layer on a support, if a support is present. The resistive heating layer may be bonded to the support, or attached or formed on the support in a different configuration.

[0292] In step 404, the formed resistance heating layer is placed in contact with the aerosol generating segment, which incorporates the aerosol generating material. Algorithm 400 can be used to manufacture the aerosol generator 304 described in any of the embodiments above.

[0293] 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. Some exemplary methods are described below.

[0294] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing part of a method or algorithm for forming an aerosol generator 304, which is generally referred to as reference no. 410. The method or algorithm 410 begins in step 412, in which a resistance heating layer is provided. In step 414, one or more resistance heating elements are formed within the resistance heating layer by chemical etching of the resistance heating layer. Steps 412 and 414 are exemplary embodiments of step 402 of method 400 described above. Next, in step 416, an aerosol generating material is placed on the resistance heating layer. Thus, step 416 is an exemplary embodiment of step 404 described above.

[0295] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing part of a method or algorithm for forming an aerosol generator 304, which is generally referred to as reference no. 418. The method or algorithm 418 begins in step 420, in which one or more heating elements are formed by printing a resistance heating layer, at least partially. Thus, step 420 is an exemplary embodiment of step 402 of algorithm 400 described above. Next, in step 422, the aerosol generating material is placed on the resistance heating layer. Thus, step 422 is an exemplary embodiment of step 404 described above.

[0296] The cutting, etching, and printing methods described above are provided as examples, and 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 attached / bonded onto a support. Yet another technique, 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 more 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 principles described herein.

[0297] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating a process or algorithm, collectively referred to as reference numeral 424, according to an exemplary embodiment. 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 start heating is received, in the case of step 426. In response to the command to start heating, a decision is made (in step 428) regarding whether a heating element is available. As mentioned above, multiple heating elements may be provided. Step 428 may include determining which heating element has been used and / or whether the corresponding available aerosol-generating material has been exhausted.

[0298] If heating elements are available, the algorithm proceeds to step 430, in which the available heating elements are used. As mentioned above, the heating elements may be individually controllable, for example, by supplying power to each individual heating element. Once step 430 is complete, the algorithm terminates in step 432. If, in step 428, it is determined that there are no available heating elements, for example, because all heating elements have been used, the algorithm terminates in step 432. This may mean that the consumable parts used to implement algorithm 424 need to be replaced.

[0299] As described herein, the article forms part of a system having an aerosol supply device. In embodiments, the aerosol supply device comprises the article.

[0300] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive 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 thereof, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be used and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may appropriately comprise, consist of, or essentially consist of, any appropriate combination 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. Articles for aerosol supply devices, an aerosol generation segment containing aerosol generation material, A resistance heating configuration including a resistance heating layer having a resistance heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, The first type of electrical contact, The second type of electrical contact, Equipped with, The resistance heating element is at least a part of the conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact. An article wherein the resistance heating configuration is in external contact with the aerosol generating segment and in internal contact with the aerosol generating segment.

2. The article according to claim 1, wherein the resistance heating layer is in external contact with the aerosol generating segment and is in internal contact with the aerosol generating segment.

3. The article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the external portion of the resistance heating element is in external contact with the aerosol generating segment, and the internal portion of the resistance heating element is in internal contact with the aerosol generating segment.

4. The article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising an internal portion of the resistance heating configuration that forms an internal contact portion with the aerosol generating segment, and an external portion of the resistance heating configuration that forms an external contact portion with the aerosol generating segment.

5. The article according to claim 4, wherein the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends into the aerosol generation segment, and the external portion of the resistance heating configuration at least partially surrounds the aerosol generation segment.

6. The article according to claim 4 or 5, wherein each of the internal and external portions of the resistance heating configuration comprises the resistance heating layer.

7. The article according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the internal and external parts of the resistance heating configuration are integrated.

8. The article according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration extends laterally from the external portion.

9. The article according to any one of claims 4 to 8, comprising folds that form the internal and external portions of the resistance heating configuration.

10. The article according to claim 9, wherein the fold is a first fold and comprises a second fold, the second fold forming a section of the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration.

11. The article according to claim 10, wherein the second fold is located within the aerosol generating segment.

12. The article according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the resistance heating configuration is folded at the second fold in the direction opposite to that of the first fold.

13. The article according to any one of claims 4 to 12, wherein the resistance heating element is a first resistance heating element formed by the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration, and the resistance heating configuration comprises a second resistance heating element formed by the external portion of the resistance heating configuration.

14. An aerosol supply system comprising an article according to any one of claims 1 to 13 and an aerosol supply device configured to receive the article.

15. A method for forming an article for an aerosol supply device, wherein the method is A resistive heating configuration comprising a resistive heating layer having a resistive heating element configured to heat at least a portion of an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; a step of forming a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact, wherein the resistive heating element is at least a portion of a conductive path between the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact; The steps include: positioning the internal portion of the resistance heating configuration so as to be in contact with the aerosol generating segment containing the aerosol generating material; The steps include positioning the external portion of the resistance heating configuration so as to be in contact with the aerosol generation segment, Methods that include...

Images