Aerosol supply system

Abstract

An aerosol supply system (100), an article (300), and an aerosol supply device (200) are provided. The device has an electrical connector (232) having a plurality of connector electrical contacts (232a to 232e) for supplying power to the article. Each of the connector electrical contacts engages with the corresponding article electrical contact (360a to 360e) when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion (206) of the aerosol supply device. The article receiving portion has a receiving axis, and the article is inserted along the receiving axis. The connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other with respect to the receiving axis so that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, at least one connector electrical contact (232e) does not come into contact with the other article electrical contacts before the article is fully inserted into the receiving portion and engages with the corresponding article electrical contact (360e).

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 device, and an aerosol supply system including the aerosol supply device and the article. [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 include so-called "heat-not-burn" products, or tobacco heating devices or products, which release compounds by heating materials without burning them. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

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

[0004] According to one aspect, An article for an aerosol supply device, an aerosol-generating material; a resistive heating arrangement comprising one or more resistive heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol; a plurality of article electrical contacts providing electrical connection to the one or more resistive heating elements; and an article comprising An aerosol supply system comprising An article receiving portion including a cavity into which an article is inserted during use, wherein the cavity has a receiving axis and the article is inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in an article receiving portion, Multiple connector electrical contacts, each of which is arranged to engage with a corresponding one of the multiple article electrical contacts when an article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Including electrical connectors and aerosol supply device equipped with Furthermore, Each of the multiple article electrical contacts is spaced apart from one another in a direction parallel to the insertion axis of the article, and the insertion axis extends in the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion of the aerosol supply device. Multiple connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the receiving axis of the item receiving portion. An aerosol supply system is provided in which multiple connector electrical contacts are sized such that when an article is inserted into an article receiving portion, at least one of the multiple connector electrical contacts passes over at least one of the article electrical contacts without contacting that at least one of the article electrical contacts before engaging with the corresponding article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the receiving portion.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply device, An article receiving portion including a cavity into which an article is inserted during use, wherein the article includes an aerosol generating material, a resistance heating component including one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, and a plurality of article electrical contacts providing electrical connections to one or more heating elements, the article receiving portion having a receiving axis, and the article being inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in an article receiving portion, Multiple connector electrical contacts, each of which is arranged to engage with a corresponding one of the multiple article electrical contacts when an article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Including electrical connectors and Equipped with, Multiple connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the receiving axis of the item receiving portion. Multiple connector electrical contacts are sized such that when an article is inserted into an article receiving portion, at least one of the multiple connector electrical contacts passes over at least one of the article electrical contacts, and when the article is fully inserted into the receiving portion, it passes over that at least one of the article electrical contacts without contacting it before engaging with the corresponding article electrical contact. An aerosol supply device is provided.

[0006] According to one aspect, A resistance heating configuration comprising an aerosol generating material and one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, Multiple articles providing electrical connections to one or more resistive heating elements and Articles for aerosol supply devices, including, Each of the multiple article electrical contacts is spaced apart from one another in a direction parallel to the insertion axis of the article, and the insertion axis extends in the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion of the aerosol supply device. Each of the multiple article electrical contacts includes an exposed conductive element surrounded by an electrical insulating element, and the exposed conductive element is sized such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, at least one of the multiple article electrical contacts engages with a first connector electrical contact on the aerosol supply device, and when the article is fully inserted into the receiving portion, the connector electrical contact passes through without contacting the conductive element of the article electrical contact before reaching a position where the conductive element of the article electrical contact engages with a further connector electrical contact. Goods are provided.

[0007] Multiple article electrical contacts and multiple connector electrical contacts may be arranged in straight lines extending parallel to the insertion axis and the receiving axis, respectively.

[0008] The plurality of article electrical contacts may include a first set of article electrical contacts arranged in a first straight line extending along the insertion axis and a second set of article electrical contacts arranged in a second straight line spaced apart from the first straight line and extending parallel to the insertion axis, and the plurality of connector electrical contacts may include a first set of connector electrical contacts arranged in a third straight line extending parallel to the receiving axis and a second set of electrical contacts arranged in a fourth straight line spaced apart from the third straight line and extending parallel to the receiving axis.

[0009] The cavity of the article receiving portion may include an opening into which an article is inserted, and the width of each connector electrical contact may increase or decrease in the direction toward the opening.

[0010] The article may include a distal end that is inserted into the cavity, and the width of the article's electrical contacts may decrease or increase in the direction away from the distal end.

[0011] Multiple article electrical contacts may be located on the same surface / side of the article. Multiple connector electrical contacts may be located on the same surface / side of the device / within the device.

[0012] According to one aspect, A resistance heating configuration comprising an aerosol generating material and one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, A first article electrical contact and a second article electrical contact that provide electrical connections to one or more resistive heating elements Articles including an aerosol supply system comprising, An article receiving portion including a cavity into which an article is inserted during use, wherein the cavity has a receiving axis and the article is inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in an article receiving portion, a first connector electrical contact arranged to engage a first article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion, and a second connector electrical contact configured to engage a second article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion an electrical connector comprising an aerosol supply device comprising further comprising the article has an insertion axis extending in a direction parallel to the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, and the first and second article electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the insertion axis or around the insertion axis, the first and second connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the receiving axis or around the receiving axis such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the first connector electrical contact does not contact the second article electrical contact and the second connector electrical contact does not contact the first article electrical contact, an aerosol supply system is provided.

[0013] According to one aspect, aerosol-generating material, a resistive heating arrangement comprising one or more resistive heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol, at least a first article electrical contact and a second article electrical contact providing electrical connection to the one or more resistive heating elements an article for an aerosol supply device, comprising the article is configured to be received, in use, in an article receiving portion of an aerosol supply device, the article receiving portion includes a cavity into which the article is inserted during use, and the electrical connector includes a first connector electrical contact arranged to engage the first article electrical contact and a second connector electrical contact configured to engage the second article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion, The article has an insertion axis extending in a direction parallel to the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, and the first and second article electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the insertion axis or around the insertion axis such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the first device electrical contact does not contact the second article electrical contact and the second device electrical contact does not contact the first article electrical contact, there is provided an article.

[0014] According to one aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device, an article receiving portion comprising a cavity into which an article is inserted in use, the article comprising an aerosol generating material, a resistive heating arrangement comprising one or more resistive heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate aerosol, and a plurality of article electrical contacts providing electrical connection to the one or more resistive heating elements, the cavity having a receiving axis, and the article being inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis comprising, an electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in the article receiving portion, a first connector electrical contact arranged to engage a first article electrical contact of the article when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion, and a second connector electrical contact configured to engage a second article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion the electrical connector comprising further comprising, the first and second connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the receiving axis or around the receiving axis such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the first device electrical contact does not contact the second article electrical contact and the second device electrical contact does not contact the first article electrical contact, there is provided an aerosol provision device.

[0015] The first and second connector electrical contacts and / or the first and second article electrical contacts may be spaced apart along the length of the receiving axis and / or the insertion axis, respectively. For example, the first and second electrical contacts and / or the first and second article electrical contacts may be spaced apart axially along the insertion axis and / or axially along the receiving axis.

[0016] Articles and aerosol supply devices for aerosol supply systems are A plurality of further article electrical contacts, each of which is spaced apart from each of the other article electrical contacts in a direction perpendicular to the insertion axis or around the insertion axis, and optionally, each of which is spaced apart along a direction parallel to the insertion axis, A plurality of further connector electrical contacts, each of which connector electrical contacts is spaced apart from other connector electrical contacts in a direction perpendicular to the receiving axis or around the receiving axis, and optionally, each of which connector electrical contacts is spaced apart along a direction parallel to the receiving axis, and It may also be provided.

[0017] The first and second article electrical contacts and / or more further article electrical contacts may be located on the same face and / or side of the article. Similarly, the first and second connector electrical contacts and / or more further connector electrical contacts may be located on the top / inside of the same face and / or side of the device.

[0018] At least one of the connector electrical contacts, for example, a first, second, or any other connector electrical contact, may include a rollerball contact. The rollerball contact may include a ball component configured to rotate within a corresponding socket component, at least the outer surface of the ball component comprising a conductive material, and the outer surface of the ball being configured to contact the corresponding article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion of the device.

[0019] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply device, Article receiving portion comprising a cavity molded to receive an article during use, wherein the article comprises an aerosol-generating material, a resistance heating configuration comprising one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol, and a plurality of article electrical contacts providing electrical connections to one or more resistance heating elements, the article receiving portion Equipped with, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in an article receiving portion, Multiple connector electrical contacts, wherein each connector electrical contact is arranged to engage with a corresponding article electrical contact when an article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Electrical connectors Furthermore, At least one of the multiple connector electrical contacts includes a roller ball contact comprising a ball component configured to rotate within a corresponding socket component, wherein at least the outer surface of the ball component comprises a conductive material, and the outer surface of the ball is configured to contact the corresponding article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. An aerosol supply device is provided.

[0020] The ball components may be elastically biased within the socket.

[0021] The aerosol supply device may further include a spring element that elastically biases the ball component into the socket.

[0022] The spring element may be conductive and may provide an electrical connection between the ball component and further electrical components of the aerosol supply device. The socket component may be conductive and may provide an electrical connection between the ball component and further electrical components of the aerosol supply device.

[0023] The socket component may hold the ball component.

[0024] Further electrical components may include power supply components.

[0025] The power supply configuration may include a controller and a power source, such as a battery.

[0026] At least one further connector electrical contact may include a roller ball contact comprising a ball component configured to rotate within a corresponding socket component, the ball component having at least an outer surface comprising a conductive material, and the outer surface of the ball being configured to contact a further corresponding article electrical contact when an article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion.

[0027] The article and / or article receiving portion may be elongated or square.

[0028] The article and the article receiving portion may each have a cylindrical or rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the insertion axis or the receiving axis.

[0029] The connector electrical contacts or the first and second connector electrical contacts may include at least one of a leaf spring, an elastically biased pin, or a rollerball contact.

[0030] At least one of the connector electrical contacts may include a leaf spring, which includes an inclined portion that engages with the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, and the article is inserted along the receiving axis. The angle between the receiving axis and the inclined portion may be 45° or less, for example 35° or less, for example 30° or less.

[0031] The connector electrical contacts may apply force to both sides of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion.

[0032] The connector electrical contacts may include a first connector electrical contact and a second electrical contact, the first connector electrical contact being positioned to act on a first side of the article and the second connector electrical contact being positioned to act on a second opposite side of the article.

[0033] The article may include a non-conductive outer layer, and the article's electrical contacts may be exposed to the outside of the article through at least one opening in the outer layer, for example, multiple openings.

[0034] The outer layer may enclose the outer surface of the article.

[0035] When an article is inserted into the article receiving portion, at least one of the connector electrical contacts may press against the outer layer of the article before engaging with its respective article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion.

[0036] The article electrical contacts and connector electrical contacts may be configured such that each connector electrical contact contacts only the outer surface of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion but is not yet fully inserted.

[0037] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating layer.

[0038] The heating component may include a conductive layer forming one or more heating elements.

[0039] At least a portion of the conductive layer may form one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol.

[0040] The conductive layer may further include electrical tracks extending from one or more resistive heating elements. The electrical tracks may extend to or provide electrical contacts for an article.

[0041] The resistance heating configuration may include multiple resistance heating elements arranged to heat different parts of the aerosol-generating material, respectively.

[0042] In any of the embodiments described above, the external shape of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and width, wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and the width is greater than the depth.

[0043] In one embodiment, the heating element and the aerosol generating material together form an aerosol generator. The article may include the aerosol generator and further components.

[0044] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of an aerosol-generating layer.

[0045] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a support configured to support a resistance heating layer.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, the resistive heating layer includes a gap that defines at least a portion of one or more resistive heating elements. In any of the above embodiments, the gap defines an electrical insulating barrier. In any of the above embodiments, the gap defines an insulating barrier. In any of the above embodiments, there is no gap in the support (e.g., support layer).

[0047] In any of the above embodiments, the support includes a support layer.

[0048] In any of the above embodiments, the support is electrically insulating.

[0049] In any of the above embodiments, the support includes at least one of paper and card.

[0050] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0051] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is indirectly in contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0052] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating layer and the support layer define the substrate.

[0053] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a laminate comprising a resistance heating layer and a support layer.

[0054] In any of the above embodiments, the laminate includes an aerosol-generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the laminate includes an aerosol-generating layer.

[0055] In any of the above embodiments, the support layer includes a card layer.

[0056] In any of the embodiments described above, the first type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to the device electrical connector, and the second type of electrical contact is configured to be electrically connected to the device electrical connector.

[0057] In any of the embodiments described above, the article electrical contacts include a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0058] In any of the embodiments described above, the support defines the exposed contact area of ​​the first type of electrical contact.

[0059] In any of the embodiments described above, the exposed contact area is a first exposed contact area, and the support defines a second exposed contact area of ​​a second type of electrical contact.

[0060] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is a continuous aerosol generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is a continuous aerosol generating layer.

[0061] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is a discontinuous aerosol generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is a discontinuous aerosol generating layer.

[0062] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material includes a plurality of individual aerosol generating portions. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer includes a plurality of individual aerosol generating portions.

[0063] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element is one of a plurality of resistance heating elements.

[0064] In any of the embodiments described above, one of the individual aerosol generating sections is associated with a corresponding one of a plurality of resistance heating elements.

[0065] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol-generating layer includes at least one of dots, strips, and patches.

[0066] In any of the embodiments described above, 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 of a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol in each portion of the aerosol generating material.

[0067] In any of the embodiments described above, 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 in order to generate an aerosol in each portion of the aerosol generating layer.

[0068] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer forms an array of resistance heating elements, which includes at least a first resistance heating element and a second resistance heating element.

[0069] In any of the embodiments described above, each of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact is configured to allow current to be supplied individually to each of the resistance heating elements.

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

[0071] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a plurality of first-type electrical contacts, and each of the heating elements includes a separate first-type electrical contact.

[0072] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol generator includes a plurality of second types of electrical contacts, and each of the resistance heating elements includes a separate second type of electrical contact.

[0073] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a single second type of electrical contact.

[0074] In any of the embodiments described above, a single second type of electrical contact is shared among each of the resistive heating elements.

[0075] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is formed by at least one of the following: cutting the resistance heating layer, chemically etching the resistance heating layer, forming or pressing the resistance heating layer into the substrate, and printing the resistance heating layer.

[0076] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in the form of a foil.

[0077] Next, various embodiments will be described as mere examples, with reference to the attached schematic diagram. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0078] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol supply system. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an article containing aerosol-generating material for the aerosol supply system. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the first side of the aerosol generator of the article. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the second side of the aerosol generator. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram of an aerosol supply system, such as the one shown. [Figure 6] Figure 2 is a schematic partially exploded perspective view of the article, showing the aerosol generator reversed from its assembled orientation and separated from the other components. [Figure 7] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown. [Figure 8] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the heating element of the aerosol generator. [Figure 9] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the resistance heating layer of an aerosol generator having multiple heating elements. [Figure 10] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 11] This is a disassembled perspective view of the formed aerosol generator. [Figure 12] This is a schematic perspective view of the resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 13] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 14] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 15] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 16] This is a schematic perspective view of the resistance heating layer of the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 17] This is a schematic plan view of the heating element of the aerosol generator. [Figure 18] This is a schematic plan view of the heating element of the aerosol generator. [Figure 19] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the aerosol generator of the item shown. [Figure 20]Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the device connector of the aerosol supply device in the aerosol supply system. [Figure 21] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of the aerosol generation system. [Figure 22] According to the method for forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3. [Figure 23] This shows the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 24] This shows the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 25] This shows the aerosol generator that has been formed. [Figure 26] This is a schematic perspective view of an article for an aerosol supply device. [Figure 27] Figure 26 is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generation system equipped with the articles shown. [Figure 28] The aerosol generator of the article formed in Figure 26 is shown. [Figure 29] Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view of the first side of the aerosol generator of the article. [Figure 30] Figure 29 is a schematic perspective view of the second side of the aerosol generator. [Figure 31] This is a schematic perspective view of an article for an aerosol supply device. [Figure 32] The aerosol generator of the article formed in Figure 31 is shown. [Figure 33] Figure 31 is a plan view of one side of the aerosol generator for the article. [Figure 34] This is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system for use with the article shown in Figure 31. [Figure 35] Figure 34 is a schematic plan view of the aerosol generation system. [Figure 36] This is a schematic perspective view of a roller ball contact for an aerosol supply device. [Figure 37] Figure 36 is a schematic side view of the central part of the roller ball contact. [Figure 38A]Figures 36 and 37 show a schematic perspective view of an aerosol supply system, in which the aerosol supply device has roller ball contacts. [Figure 38B] Figure 38A is a further schematic perspective view of the aerosol supply system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0079] As used herein, the term “delivery mechanism” is intended to encompass a system for delivering a substance to a user, and includes non-combustible aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without burning the materials, such as a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of an electronic cigarette, a tobacco heating product, and an aerosolizable material, and articles comprising aerosolizable materials and configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol supply systems.

[0080] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or its components) are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0081] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may, for example, contain tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power supply.

[0088] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0089] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material transfer component, aerosol generator, aerosol generating area, housing, packaging material, filter, suction nozzle, and / or aerosol modifier.

[0090] As used herein, “aerosol-generating material” (sometimes referred to herein as “aerosolizable material”) is a material that can generate an aerosol when heated, irradiated, or electrically charged in any other manner. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or semi-solid (such as a gel), which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0091] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0092] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0093] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may 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.

[0094] 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 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may include continuous material sheets, or may consist of continuous material sheets.

[0097] The aerosol-generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol-generating film may include one or more separate parts or regions of an aerosol-generating material, such as dots, stripes, or lines, which can be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent.

[0101] The aerosol-generating material may be an amorphous solid. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid is a monolithic solid. The aerosol-generating material may be non-fibrous or fibrous. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be a dry gel. The aerosol-generating material may be a solid material capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, inside. In some embodiments, the held fluid may be water (such as water absorbed from the surroundings of the aerosol-generating material), or the held fluid may be a solvent (such as when the aerosol-generating material is formed from a slurry). In some embodiments, the solvent may be water.

[0102] 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 diacetin, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyline, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0103] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of the following: pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0104] 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 contain these materials.

[0105] An aerosol supply device can receive an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, "article" means a component that contains or includes an aerosol-generating material which is heated during use to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally contains or includes other components during use. The user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol supply device before the article is heated to generate an aerosol, after which the user inhales the aerosol.

[0106] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to supply thermal energy to the aerosol-generating material in order to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol.

[0107] Consumables are articles containing or consisting of aerosol-generating material, some or all of which are intended to be consumed during use by the user. Consumables may also include 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 include 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 include a conductor that can be heated by an electric current passing through it.

[0108] 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 implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may comprise a power source and a controller (or control circuit). The power source may include, for example, a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol product may comprise the aerosol generating component partially or entirely.

[0109] 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 (see Figure 3). In Figure 2, the article 300 is shown detached from the aerosol supply device 200. The aerosol generator 304 of the article 300 is shown in Figure 3 by a perspective view of the first side 306, and a perspective view of a portion of the second side 307 is shown in Figure 4.

[0110] Article 300 includes 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.

[0111] The aerosol supply system 100 may be elongated and extend along its longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply system 100 has a proximal end 102 closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when used by the user for inhaling the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply system 100, and a distal end 104 furthest from the user when used.

[0112] The proximal end may also be called the “mouthpiece end.” Thus, the aerosol supply system 100 defines a proximal direction that is directed toward the user during use. Furthermore, the aerosol supply system 100 similarly defines a distal direction that is directed away from the user during use. The terms “proximal” and “distal” applied to the features of system 100 are explained by referring to the relative positioning of such features relative to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0113] Article 300 is received by an aerosol supply device 200. The configurations of article 300 and the aerosol supply device 200 may vary. In this embodiment, the aerosol supply device 200 comprises a device body 202. The device has a housing 204 that encloses the components of the device 200. As shown in Figure 5, an article receiving 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. A receptacle 208 defines the chamber 206. The receptacle 208 includes a receptacle base 210 and a receptacle periphery 212. The configuration of the receptacle 208 may vary depending on the configuration of article 300.

[0114] One or more user-operable control elements 224, such as buttons or switches, may be provided on the aerosol supply device 200 for use in operating 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, such as suction activated by a user drawing air through the system.

[0115] The aerosol supply device 200 has an opening 214 at its proximal end that leads into the device chamber 206. The opening 214 is located at one end and through which an article 300 can be inserted. In embodiments, the article 300 may be fully or partially inserted into the device 200. The configuration of the device 200 may vary; for example, the opening may be located on the longitudinal side wall of the device 200 and / or may be closed by another feature of the device 200 during use. In this configuration, the article 300 defines a mouthpiece 310 at its proximal end 308. In other embodiments, the device 200 defines the mouthpiece. The user places their mouth over the mouthpiece during use.

[0116] Device 200 defines a longitudinal axis along which article 300 may extend when inserted into device 200. The opening 214 is aligned on the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may also be the axis along which article 300 is inserted into device 200. The longitudinal axis may be considered the receiving axis of device 200. Article 300 may also have a longitudinal axis along which it is inserted into the device, and this axis may be considered the insertion axis.

[0117] 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 which functions as a controller, including a processor and memory.

[0118] As will be discussed 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.

[0119] The aerosol generator 304 forms part of article 300. The aerosol generator 304 includes a heating component 312 configured to heat at least one of an aerosol-generating material 302, such as a film and a gel, in order to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating material may be called an aerosolizable material.

[0120] The heating component 312 is a resistance heating component. In the embodiment, the heating element or each heating element is a resistance heating element, as will be described in detail below. In such a component, the heating system 110 includes a resistance heating generator which includes components for heating the heating component 312 by a resistance heating process. In this case, a current is applied directly to the resistance heating element, and the resulting current flow within the heating element, which functions 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 it, and the heating component 312 includes electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistance material. By providing the resistance heating component 312, a compact configuration is possible. Resistance heating provides an efficient configuration.

[0121] In the use of the aerosol supply system 100, air is drawn into the air inlet 314 of the article 300, as indicated by arrow 316. The air inlet 314 is located at the distal end of the article 300. In embodiments, the air inlet 314 may have different configurations, for example, on the side. The airflow to the air inlet 314 of the article 300 may be defined by at least one of the following: an air path through the device 200, an air path outside the device 200, and an air path between the device 200 and the article 300. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 304 exits the device at the aerosol outlet 318, as indicated by arrow 319. In embodiments, the aerosol outlet 318 is located in the mouthpiece of the article 300 so that the aerosol is drawn directly from the article 300 to the user's mouth of the system 100.

[0122] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol supply system comprises two main components: a control section forming a reusable portion and a consumables 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 consumables section. In the use of the aerosol generation system, the control section and the consumables may be releasably connected at an interface. The consumables may be removable and replaceable, for example, when the consumables are used up, and the control section may be reused with different consumables.

[0123] The illustrated aerosol supply system 100 is provided merely as an example and is highly schematic. Different aerosol generating devices and other devices may be used in exemplary implementations of the principles described herein. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, air is drawn in through an air inlet in a control section, passes through an interface, and exits through consumable parts.

[0124] As schematically shown in Figure 5 and described in detail below, article 300 has article electrical contact configuration 320. In this embodiment, the electrical contact configuration 320 is formed by an aerosol generator 304. The electrical contact configuration 320 includes a heater electrical contact 322. The heater electrical contact 322 may also be known as a heater or article contact. The aerosol supply device 200 includes an electrical connector 230. The electrical connector 230 includes a connector electrical contact 232. The connector electrical contact 232 may also be known as a connector or device contact. The article electrical contact configuration 320 is configured to communicate electrically with the device electrical connector 230.

[0125] The configuration of article 300 may vary. Article 300 includes a body 324. The body 324 is hollow. The body 324 defines a channel 326 (see Figure 6) through article 300. The channel 326 extends between an air inlet 314 and an aerosol outlet 318. The channel 326 is defined by an internal space within the article through which air and / or aerosols can flow. The channel 326 is defined within the body 324. An aerosol generator or each aerosol generator 304 borders the channel 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the channel 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed in the internal space. In the embodiment, the internal space includes two or more chambers.

[0126] The air inlet 314 includes an opening 315. The opening 315 is formed in the body 324. In embodiments, the opening is formed in another component of the article 300, for example, an aerosol generator 304 or another wall feature. The aerosol outlet 318 includes an outlet opening 317. The outlet opening 317 is formed in the body 324. In embodiments, the outlet opening 317 is formed in another component of the article 300, for example, an aerosol generator 304 or another wall feature.

[0127] As shown in Figure 6, article 300 includes two aerosol generators 304 that form an aerosol generator configuration. The number of aerosol generators 304 may vary. Each aerosol generator 304 contains an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to a channel 326. In embodiments, article 300 includes a single aerosol generator 304. One of the aerosol generators 304 is described in detail, and such details are applicable to one or more further aerosol generators 304 in embodiments.

[0128] The aerosol generator or each aerosol generator 304 and the main body 324 are formed in a stacked configuration. In embodiments, other arrangements such as a tubular arrangement of articles are envisioned. In such a tubular arrangement, the aerosol generator 304 defines a tubular configuration. The tubular shape may include a circular cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, and other polygonal shapes.

[0129] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, article 300 has a flat configuration. That is, in this case, the external shape of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and width, where the length is greater than or equal to the width and the width is greater than the depth. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0130] Figure 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of article 300, in which the aerosol generator 304 is shown inverted from its assembled orientation and spaced apart from the other components. Article 300 includes a first aerosol generator 302, a body 324, and a second aerosol generator 304. The body 324 separates the first and second aerosol generators 304. The first and second aerosol generators 304 enclose an internal space defined by the body 324 through which air and / or aerosols can flow. The aerosol-generating materials 302 of the first and second aerosol generators 304 are exposed to the internal space facing each other. When assembled, the first and second aerosol generators 304 sandwich the body 324. In the embodiment of Figure 6, at least the first and second aerosol generators 304 and the body have equal planar areas. In the embodiment, one or more of the first and second aerosol generators 304 and the body 324 have a greater length and / or width. In the embodiment, one of the first and second aerosol generators 304 is replaced by a blank panel. The body 324 includes a body layer. The body may include multiple body layers. The body layers are formed by stacking and may be arranged to define features of the article 300, such as an air inlet 314 and an aerosol outlet 318.

[0131] The wrap surrounds the article 300 and forms part of the article 300. The wrap may include a sheet. The wrap functions as a fixing sleeve. The aerosol generator or each aerosol generator 304 protrudes from the wrap at its distal end. The exposed electrical contact area 323 of the heater contact 322 is exposed at the distal end, as shown in Figure 2, for example. Other configurations are conceivable, for example, at least one exposed electrical contact area 323 may be additionally or alternatively defined on the main surface of the article defined by the aerosol generator 304, along the short longitudinal surface or edge of the article 300.

[0132] The aerosol generator 304 is schematically shown in cross-section in Figure 7. The aerosol generator 304 is an implementation of the aerosol generator 304 of the aerosol supply system 100 described above.

[0133] The aerosol generator 304 includes an aerosol generating layer 330, also known as an aerosolizable layer. The aerosol generating layer 330 includes an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generator 304 includes a resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. The aerosol generating layer 330 is located on the resistance heating layer 340. The aerosol generating layer 330 is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 is in indirect contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 may include a coating. As will be described in detail below, the resistance heating layer 340 includes a plurality of resistance heating elements 342, as shown, for example, in Figures 8 and 9. Each resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 forms at least a portion of a conductive path between a pair of electrical contacts 322. Each resistance heating element or each resistance heating element 342 provides a conductive path for resistance heating of at least a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 to generate an aerosol. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material 302 is in the form of a film or a gel.

[0134] The resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. In this embodiment, this layer takes the form of at least one of a metal layer such as an aluminum layer or a non-metallic material such as graphene. The resistance heating layer 340 is in the form of a foil, for example, an aluminum foil.

[0135] The aerosol generator 304 includes a support 350. In this embodiment, the support 350 includes paper or card material. The support 350 provides structural support for the aerosol generator 304. The resistance heating layer 340 is located on the support 350. The support 350 is configured as a support layer. As shown in Figure 7, in the aerosol generator 304, the resistance heating layer 340 is sandwiched between the support 350 and the aerosol generation layer 330.

[0136] The support 350 is electrically insulating. The resistance heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define the substrate 352. The substrate 352 supports the aerosol generating layer 330.

[0137] Article 300 may include a laminate 354 comprising a resistance heating layer 340 and a support layer 350. In embodiments, the laminate 354 includes an aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer 330 may be formed as a continuous structure or from individual parts. The individual parts may include one or more of the following shapes: dots, strips, helices, or other shapes.

[0138] In the embodiment, the aerosol generating layer 330 includes an aerosol generating film. In the embodiment, the aerosol generating layer 330 includes a plurality of aerosol generating films. In the embodiment, the aerosol generating film includes 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.

[0139] One or more of the aerosol generation layer 330, the resistance heating layer 340, and the support layer 350 may include further layers. For example, the support layer 350 may include a backing layer or an intermediate layer. The support layer 350 is omitted in this embodiment.

[0140] Figure 8 shows one of the resistance heating elements 342. The resistance heating layer 340 includes multiple resistance heating elements 342. In this embodiment, the resistance heating layer 340 includes a single resistance heating element 342.

[0141] Multiple heating elements 342 may be formed in an array 344 as shown in Figure 9. Other configurations are also possible.

[0142] The resistive heating element 342 includes a resistive heating path. The resistive heating path is formed by a conductive path. The resistive heating path is nonlinear. The resistive heating path is spiral. The configuration of the resistive heating path may vary. The electrical resistance of the heating element 342 may depend on the properties of the resistive heating path in the conductive layer, such as the length, width, thickness, and arrangement of the path.

[0143] The resistive heating element 342 extends between a first type of electrical contact 360 and a second type of electrical contact 365. The first type of electrical contact 360 is configured to provide a positive contact, and the second type of electrical contact 365 is configured to provide a negative contact. Current flows through the path between the first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365. The contact arrangement may be reversed. The first 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.

[0144] The meandering or winding nature of the path of the resistive heating element 342 is such that the electrical resistance of the path increases compared to a straight path between the first and second types of electrical contacts.

[0145] 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.

[0146] The resistance heating layer 340 may include a second type of electrical track 366 extending from the resistance heating element 342. The second type of electrical track 366 includes a second type of electrical contact 365. The second type of electrical contact 365 is configured to electrically connect to the device electrical connector 230. The second type of electrical contact 365 includes a second type of exposed contact area 367. The second type of exposed contact area 367 is exposed on the article 300 for direct connection to the device electrical connector 230.

[0147] As will be discussed in detail below, the conductive path of the resistive heating element 342 in the embodiment is created by defining at least one electrically insulating barrier 346 within the resistive heating layer 340. In the embodiment, the electrically insulating barrier 346 is formed by cutting an electrically insulating barrier limiting portion (i.e., an electrically insulating 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 define the resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 and then applied to the support 350. In the embodiment, the resistive heating layer 340 is applied to the support 350 and then the resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 is defined within the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 defining the resistive heating layer 340 may be a printed heater. The insulating barrier may be a void. In the embodiment, the insulating barrier is, for example, a filled void filled with an insulating material. A barrier defines a barrier against electrical conduction across it.

[0148] The resistance heating elements defining the resistance heating layer 340, or each resistance heating element 342, may be formed by a cutting operation. The cutting operation may include die cutting. The resistance heating elements may be formed by an operation applied only to the resistance heating layer. In some embodiments, the resistance heating elements may be formed by an operation applied to both the resistance heating layer and the support layer, for example, by an operation that cuts both the resistance heating layer and the support layer.

[0149] At least one electrical insulating barrier 346 defines first and second types of electrical tracks 361, 366.

[0150] In some embodiments, the tracks of the resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 have a width of 0.5 mm to 1 mm (two exemplary prototypes have widths of 0.93 mm and 0.72 mm, respectively), and 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 or each resistive heating element 342 may have overall dimensions of approximately 10 mm × 10 mm. Other dimensions are possible in other exemplary embodiments. By forming resistive heating elements or each resistive heating element 342 of these dimensions from aluminum foil with a thickness of 0.006 mm and an electrical resistivity of 2 to 6 μOhm 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 Ohm.

[0151] As shown in Figure 9, the resistance heating layer 340 may be formed on multiple resistance heating elements generally indicated by reference numbers 342a, 342b, 342c, 342d, and 342e. Each of the resistance heating elements 342a to 342e extends from each of the first type of electrical contacts generally indicated by reference numbers 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d, and 360e to a single second type of electrical contact 365. The number of electrical contacts may vary. Thus, each resistance heating element 342a to 342e extends between individual first type electrical contacts and a common second type electrical contact.

[0152] Each of the resistance heating elements 342a to 342e provides a conductive path for resistance heating a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 in order to generate an aerosol in each part of the aerosol generator 304.

[0153] The distinct first types of electrical contacts 360a to 360e allow current to be supplied individually to each of the multiple resistive heating elements 342a to 342e. This allows for control of heating in different zones of the aerosol generation layer 330. For example, the aerosol generator may have five aerosol generation zones. The resistive heating layer 340 allows each of these zones to be operated separately. Thus, for example, five aerosol aspirates may be produced from a single consumable incorporating a single aerosol generator 304, or ten aerosol aspirates may be produced from a single consumable incorporating two aerosol generators 304.

[0154] In an exemplary resistance heating layer 340, a plurality of first-type electrical contacts 360a to 360e, e.g., positive electrical connections, and a single second-type electrical contact 365, e.g., a negative electrical connection, are provided. This is not essential for all implementations. For example, a plurality of second-type contacts may be provided. In the embodiment, each resistance heating element 342a to 342e includes a corresponding first-type electrical contact 360 and a corresponding second-type electrical contact 365.

[0155] In the embodiment of the resistance heating layer 340 shown in Figure 9, the first type of electrical contacts 360a to 360e are located on the first edge 363 of the resistance heating layer 340, and the second type of electrical contacts 365 are located on the second edge 368 of the resistance heating layer 340. This may allow for convenient power connections, but of course, many other configurations are possible, some of which will be discussed further below.

[0156] Figure 10 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.

[0157] The method or algorithm 400 begins with an operation 402 in which a resistive heating layer is formed on one or more heating elements (e.g., multiple heating elements), each resistive heating element extending from a first type of electrical contact to a second type of electrical contact. 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 mounted or formed on the support in a different configuration.

[0158] In operation 404, the formed resistance heating layer is placed in contact with the aerosol generating layer, and the aerosol generating layer incorporates the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generator 304 described above may be generated using algorithm 400.

[0159] Figure 11 shows an aerosol generator 304 formed according to one embodiment. The aerosol generating material 302 is formed on the resistance heating layer 340 by, for example, spraying, painting, dropping, or by depositing the aerosol generating material in some other way. In an exemplary implementation of operation 404, the aerosol generating layer 330 is disposed on the resistance heating layer 340 as indicated by arrow 406.

[0160] 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 for the heating elements described herein. The use of a laser cutter 408 (or any other cutting process) is not the only way in which the resistance heating layer 340 described herein can be produced. Several exemplary methods are described below.

[0161] Figure 13 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 with operation 412, in which a resistance heating layer is provided. In operation 414, one or more resistance heating elements are formed within the resistance heating layer by chemical etching of the resistance heating layer. Operations 412 and 414 are exemplary implementations of operation 402 of method 400 described above. An aerosol generating material is then placed on the resistance heating layer, thereby implementing operation 404 described above.

[0162] 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. 418. The method or algorithm 418 begins with operation 420, in which one or more heating elements are formed by printing a resistance heating layer, at least partially. Thus, operation 420 is an exemplary implementation of operation 402 of algorithm 400 described above. The aerosol generating material is then placed on the resistance heating layer, thereby implementing operation 404 described above.

[0163] 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" method can be used, in which the heating element is fabricated from a resistance heating layer and then assembled / bonded onto a support. Even further techniques, such as die-cutting, can also be used. Furthermore, two or more techniques can be combined (for example, conductivity can be added to the connection trace by adding more conductive materials such as additional foil, printing material, etc.). Those skilled in the art will recognize many further techniques, or combinations of techniques, that can be used in implementations of the principles described herein.

[0164] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an operating method or algorithm, collectively referred to as reference numeral 424. The method or algorithm 424 may be implemented, for example, using one of the aerosol generators described herein. The method or algorithm 424 is initiated when a command to activate heating is received in an instance of operation 426. In response to the command to activate heating, a determination is made as to whether a heating element is available (operation 428). Multiple heating elements may be provided, as discussed above. Operation 428 may involve determining which heating element has been used and / or whether the corresponding available aerosol generating material has been exhausted.

[0165] If heating elements are available, the algorithm proceeds to operation 430, where the available heating elements are used. As discussed above, the heating elements may be individually controllable, for example, by providing power to individual heating elements. Once operation 430 is complete, the algorithm terminates with operation 432. If, in operation 428, it is determined that no heating elements are available, for example, because all heating elements have been used, the algorithm terminates with operation 432. This may mean that the consumable parts used to implement algorithm 424 need to be replaced.

[0166] Figure 16 shows a resistance heating layer 340 formed according to an embodiment. The resistance heating layer 340 is cut using a laser cutter 408, but other methods such as chemical etching or printing may also be used, as discussed above. By cutting the conductive layer 340, the heating element described herein is formed.

[0167] In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, the path to be cut is a straight path extending along the length of the conductive layer 120.

[0168] Figure 17 shows another embodiment of the resistance heating layer 340. The resistance heating layer 340 may be formed using the laser cutter 408 described above, or some similar device or other method. The resistance heating layer 340 includes a plurality of resistance heating elements 342, each resistance heating element 342 being a linear heating element with a conductive path extending along the length of the resistance heating layer 340. Each resistance heating element 342 extends from one of a first type of electrical contact 360, e.g., a positive electrical connection, to one of a second type of electrical contact 365, e.g., a negative electrical contact. In such embodiments, both types of electrical contacts are located at the same end of the resistance heating layer 340 and are adjacent to each other. In configurations where there is no common second type of electrical contact, as in some other embodiments, each heating element instead has separate first and second types of electrical contacts.

[0169] Figure 18 shows another embodiment of the resistance heating layer 340. The resistance heating layer 340 can be formed using the laser cutter 408 described above, or some similar device or other method. The resistance heating layer 340 includes a plurality of heating elements 342, each heating element 342 being a linear heating element with a conductive path extending along the length of the resistance heating layer 340. Each resistance heating element 342 extends from one of a first type of electrical contact 360, e.g., a positive electrical connection, to a second type of electrical contact 365, e.g., a negative electrical contact. In such embodiments, different types of electrical connections are provided at both ends of the resistance heating layer 340, and a common second type of electrical contact is provided. Although a linear path is provided, an increase in electrical resistance may be provided by providing a grooved path that functions as a spiral path. Note that the paths of any other embodiments described herein can also be grooved.

[0170] Figure 19 shows the distal end of article 300. As shown, the body 324 includes a plurality of body layers 325. The body layers 325 are arranged in a laminate of body layers 325. The body layers 325 form a laminate. In this embodiment, the body layers 325 are card layers. Other suitable materials may be used. The body layers 325 are configured to define the features of article 300. In this embodiment, at least one body layer includes a gap that defines an air inlet 315. The gap defines an opening 314.

[0171] The aerosol generator 304 includes a resistance heating layer 340. The resistance heating layer 340 includes resistance heating elements 342, a first type of electrical contact 360 that provides, for example, a positive electrical connection to each of the multiple heating elements 342, and a single second type of electrical contact 365 that provides, for example, a common negative electrical connection to the multiple heating elements 342. The first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365, i.e., the heater contact 322, together form at least a portion of the article electrical contact configuration 320 of the aerosol generator 304.

[0172] The resistive heating element 342 is located inside the resistive heating layer 340. The inside defines the first side 306 of the aerosol generator 304, as shown in Figure 3. The heater contact 322 is located on the second side 307 of the resistive heating layer 340. The second side 307 defines the outside of the aerosol generator 304. The heater contact 322 is exposed so as to be able to contact the device electrical connector 230. The heater contact 322 is on the opposite side of the resistive heating layer 340 from the resistive heating element 342. Other configurations are also possible.

[0173] The support layer 350 is located between the inner portion and the outer portion of the resistance heating layer 340.

[0174] A fold 370 is formed in the resistance heating layer 340. The fold 370 defines the heater contact 322. As shown in Figures 2-4 and Figure 19, the fold 370 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 304. The fold 370 defines the flap 372. The heater contact 322 is located on the flap 372. The flap defines the contact panel. The remaining blank portion defines the main panel.

[0175] In embodiments having a support layer 350, the support layer 350 is folded in the embodiment. The base material 352 is folded at the fold 370. In embodiments, the support layer 350 is terminated at the fold. In embodiments, the fold 370 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 304.

[0176] The folded portion of the resistance heating layer 340 is fixed in the folded position. In this embodiment, this folded portion is bonded, for example, by a joint. Other fastening means are also anticipated.

[0177] The fold 370 defines a first type of exposed contact area 362. The fold 370 defines a second type of exposed contact area 367. Electrical tracks 361 and 366 are electrically connected across the fold 370. The heater contacts 322 of the first type of electrical track 361 and the second type of electrical track 366 are defined on the second side of the resistance heating layer 340. Parts of the first type of electrical track 361 and the second type of electrical track 366 extend to the first side of the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating element extends from the fold 370. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0178] Device 200 comprises multiple connector electrical contacts 232 of an electrical connector 230. The configuration of the device connector 230 depends on the configuration of the heater contacts 322 of the aerosol generator 304. In embodiments such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 19, the aerosol generator 300 includes multiple heater contacts 322, including one of a plurality of first type heater contacts 360 and a plurality of second type heater contacts 365. Article 300 includes another set of heater contacts 322 on the opposite side of article 300 corresponding to the second aerosol generator 304.

[0179] Figure 20 shows a device connector 230 of an aerosol supply device 200 used in several embodiments. The connector 230 has separate connector electrical contacts 232 for connection to the heater contacts 322.

[0180] Figure 21 schematically shows the aerosol supply system 100. The system 100 comprises article 300 and aerosol supply device 200, both of which are shown in the block diagram. The device 200 comprises a first connector 230a and a second connector 230b.

[0181] Connectors 230a and 230b allow the aerosol supply device 200 to supply a regulated or controlled voltage and / or current to various first-type heater contacts 360 and second-type heater contacts 365 of the aerosol generator 304 when the article 300 is inserted into the aerosol supply device 200. The aerosol supply device 200 may include connector components configured to supply power to connectors 230a and 230b. The aerosol supply device 200 may operate, for example, in the manner described above.

[0182] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing a method or algorithm for forming an aerosol generator 304, generally referred to as reference number 440, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0183] The method or algorithm 440 begins with operation 442 in which a resistive heating layer is formed on at least one resistive heating element, and the heating element or each heating element provides a conductive path for resistive heating at least a portion of the aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol. Exemplary heating elements that may be formed in operation 442 are described elsewhere herein.

[0184] In operation 442, the aerosol-generating material is applied and / or formed on the resistance heating layer.

[0185] Operations 442 and 444 of method or algorithm 440 are similar to (and may be identical to) operations 402 and 404 of method or algorithm 400 described above.

[0186] In operation 446, at least one first type of electrical contact is provided on the resistance heating layer. The method of formation may be any of the methods described above. In operation 448, at least one second type of electrical contact is provided on the resistance heating layer. The method of formation may be any of the methods described above.

[0187] In the embodiment, the first and second types of electrical contacts are formed along or near a single edge of the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the first and second types of electrical contacts are formed along or near different edges of the resistance heating layer.

[0188] In the embodiment, a first type of electrical contact (e.g., a positive connection) is provided along a first edge of the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, a second type of electrical contact (e.g., a negative electrical connection) is provided along a second edge of the resistance heating layer. Operations 446 and 448 can be performed in different orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, operations 446 and 448 can be performed together with operation 442.

[0189] In operation 450, the resistance heating layer is folded. In an embodiment, the support layer is folded together with the resistance heating layer. In an embodiment, the resistance heating layer is folded such that the first and second types of electrical contacts are adjacent to each other, as will be discussed in detail below.

[0190] Figures 23 to 25 show embodiments of the aerosol generator 304 formed according to algorithm 440.

[0191] Figure 23 shows another embodiment of the formed aerosol generator 304. The resistance heating layer 340 is cut using a laser cutter 408. The pre-folded configuration defines the blank for forming the aerosol generator 304. The blank in the embodiment defines the fold lines that are made during the formation of the aerosol generator. The aerosol generator 304 blank includes the resistance heating layer 340 and the support layer 350. The resistance heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define the panel defined by the fold lines.

[0192] As shown in Figure 23, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed on multiple heating elements 192, although the number may vary, or there may be only one. Multiple first type electrical contacts 360 (e.g., positive electrical contacts) are provided along the first edge of the conductive layer (one contact is shown for each heating element). A single second type electrical contact 365 is provided along the second edge of the resistance heating layer 340. In this embodiment, the contacts are spaced apart from the edge. As discussed above, each of the multiple heating elements extends from the first type electrical contact to the second type electrical contact.

[0193] The cuts made by the laser cutter 408 in the resistance heating layer 340 form heating elements or paths for each heating element 342. As discussed above, laser forming or any other cutting process is not the only way to produce the resistance heating layer 340 described above. Some exemplary alternative methods include chemical etching and printing.

[0194] As shown in Figure 24, the aerosol generating layer 200 is provided on the resistance heating layer 340. Next, the blank is folded as indicated by the arrows in Figure 24. In this embodiment, the folds are formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generator 304. Two folds are formed. A first panel 375 containing a heating element 342 is defined. A second panel 376 containing a plurality of first type electrical contacts 360 is formed. A third panel 377 containing second type electrical contacts 365 is formed. The aerosol generating layer 330 is on the first panel 375. Figure 25 shows the folded aerosol generator 304.

[0195] In some embodiments, the article 300 of the aerosol supply system 100 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206 (i.e., the device chamber 206 described above) by sliding the article 300 through an opening into the cavity (i.e., the receptacle). The article 300 may be considered to have an insertion axis extending in a direction parallel to the direction in which the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206, and the article receiving portion 206 may have a corresponding receiving axis along which the article 300 is inserted. In embodiments where both the article 300 and the article receiving portion 206 are elongated, the insertion axis may be the longitudinal axis of the article 300, and the receiving axis may be the longitudinal axis of the article receiving portion 206.

[0196] In some embodiments, the connector electrical contact 232 may protrude into the article receiving portion 206 of the aerosol supply device 200 so as to make proper contact with the article electrical contact 322. The connector electrical contact 232 may be elastically biased to provide a secure connection between the corresponding connector electrical contact 232 and the article electrical contact 322 when the article 300 is fully inserted. In some embodiments, when the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206, the lower surface (i.e., the contact surface) of the connector electrical contact 232 may be in contact with the outer surface of the article 300, and the elastic bias of the connector electrical contact 232 may apply pressure to the outer surface of the article 300. These embodiments may be referred to herein as sliding insertion embodiments.

[0197] The applicant understands that in sliding insertion embodiments, the pressure applied to the outer surface of the article 300 by the connector electrical contacts 232 may cause resistance to the insertion of the article 300 into the aerosol supply device 200. Abrasion between the connector electrical contacts 232 and the outer surface of the article 300 may also cause damage to both surfaces. The applicant further understands that if the connector electrical contacts 232 and the article electrical contacts 322 are spaced linearly apart along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the article receiving portion 306 and the article 300, the connector electrical contacts 232 may rub against the exposed surface of the article electrical contacts 322 when the article 300 is inserted into the aerosol supply device, resulting in damage to the surfaces of both the connector contacts 232 and the article contacts 322. This may be particularly true in embodiments where the article electrical contacts 322 are made from a thin conductive foil and are easily torn. The various embodiments described below attempt to address this problem.

[0198] Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view of article 300 for an aerosol supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Article 300 shown in Figure 26 comprises a plurality of article electrical contacts 360a-360e (e.g., 360a-360e of the first type) and 365 (e.g., 365 of the second type) that provide electrical connections of article 300 to one or more resistive heating elements 342a-342e (not shown). The electrical connections may enable power to be supplied to one or more resistive heating elements 342a-342e.

[0199] Article 300 may include a non-conductive outer layer 390 (i.e., in the form of an electrical insulating element), as shown in Figure 26, and article electrical contacts 360a-360e and 365 may be exposed to the outside of article 300 through a plurality of openings in the outer layer 390. Each opening exposes a portion of each different article electrical contact 360a-360e and 365.

[0200] As can be seen in Figure 26, on the surface of the illustrated article 300, the exposed areas of the multiple article electrical contacts 360a-360e and 365 are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the insertion axis 380 of the article 300. As shown, the insertion axis 380 extends in the direction in which the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206 of the aerosol supply device 200.

[0201] Article 300 includes a distal end 305 that is inserted into a receiving portion of device 200, such as a cavity, and the widths of the article electrical contacts 360a-360e, 365 increase in the direction away from the distal end 305. The width of each article electrical contact 360a-360e, 365 may be defined as a substantially perpendicular dimension with respect to the insertion axis, for example, a perpendicular dimension. This means that, as shown in Figure 26, the width of the exposed area of ​​article 300 closest to the distal end 305 is smaller than the width of each exposed area further away from the distal end 305 of article; that is, the exposed area of ​​contact 360a (i.e., the portion of contact 360a that can be touched outside article 300) is narrower than the exposed area of ​​contact 360c, and so on, with the exposed area of ​​contact 360c being narrower than the exposed area of ​​contact 360e. The same applies to contacts 365, 360b, 360d. In other words, the contacts 360a to 360e and 365 that are farther from the distal end 305 are wider than the contacts that are closer to the distal end 305.

[0202] The widths of the article electrical contacts 360a-360e, 365, which increase in the direction away from the distal end 305, are intended to mean, for example, that article electrical contact 360e is wider than article electrical contact 360c (which is the next article electrical contact 360c in a line toward the distal end 305), and that article electrical contact 360c is wider than article electrical contact 360a (which is the next article electrical contact toward the distal end 305). If there is a larger width, this may be the maximum width of a given article electrical contact, since a given article electrical contact may have a width that varies along its length. Therefore, the width of an article electrical contact may be the maximum width of the article electrical contact. The same principle applies to the connector electrical contacts described below.

[0203] Figure 27 is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of the aerosol generating system 100 for use with the article 300 of Figure 26. Figure 27 shows a portion of the aerosol supply device 200, which includes an article receiving portion 206. In the embodiment shown in Figure 27, the aerosol receiving portion 206 is in the form of a cavity 206 into which the article 300 is inserted during use. The cavity 206 has a receiving axis 280, and the article 300 is inserted into the cavity 206 along the receiving axis 280.

[0204] In the embodiment shown in Figure 27, the article 300 is configured to be inserted into the aerosol supply device 200 by sliding the article 300 along the longitudinal axis (i.e., the receiving axis) 280 of the cavity 206 of the aerosol supply device 200 in the direction indicated by the arrow in Figure 27.

[0205] The aerosol supply device also includes an electrical connector 230 for supplying power to the article 300 received by the article receiving portion 206. The electrical connector 230 includes a plurality of connector electrical contacts 232a, 232c, and 232e, each of which is positioned to engage with the corresponding of the plurality of heater article electrical contacts 360a, 360c, and 360e when the article 300 is fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206. Figure 27 shows the article 300 in the fully inserted position.

[0206] Figure 27 shows three of the connector electrical contacts 232a, 232b, and 232c. Each connector electrical contact 232 is configured to contact its respective article electrical contact when the article 300 is fully inserted into the aerosol supply device 200. That is, connector electrical contact 232a is configured to contact article electrical contact 360a, connector electrical contact 232c is configured to contact article electrical contact 360c, and connector electrical contact 232e is configured to contact article electrical contact 360e. Three further connector electrical contacts are present within the device 200, each configured to contact one of the remaining article electrical contacts 342b, 360d, and 365 of the article 300, but are not shown in Figure 27. All of the connector electrical contacts shown in Figure 27 include leaf springs, however one or more of the connector electrical contacts 232 may include elastically biased pin or rollerball contacts.

[0207] As can be seen in Figure 27, the multiple connector electrical contacts 232a, 232c, and 232e are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the receiving axis 280 of the article receiving portion 206. Figures 26 and 27 show embodiments in which the multiple article electrical contacts 360a, 360c, and 360e and the multiple connector electrical contacts 232a, 232c, and 232e are arranged in straight lines extending parallel to the insertion axis 380 and the receiving axis 280, respectively.

[0208] The multiple connector electrical contacts 232a, 232c, 232e are sized such that, when the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206, at least one of the multiple connector electrical contacts (e.g., contacts 232e, 232c) passes over at least one of the article electrical contacts (e.g., contact 360a) without contacting that at least one of the article electrical contacts (e.g., contact 360a) before the article 300 is fully inserted into the receiving portion 206 and engages with the corresponding article electrical contact (i.e., contact 360e or 360c).

[0209] In the embodiments shown in Figures 27 and 26, this effect (i.e., dimensioning of the connector electrical contacts 232a, 232c, 232e) is achieved by varying the widths of the connector electrical contacts 232a, 232c, 232e. The cavity 206 of the aerosol supply device 200 includes an opening into which the article 300 is inserted. This may be referred to as the proximal end 208 of the device. The width of each connector electrical contact 232 (i.e., contacts 232a, 232c, 232e) increases in the direction toward the opening, i.e., the proximal end 208.

[0210] Specifically, the width of the connector electrical contacts varies along the length of the cavity 206 of the aerosol supply device 200 to correspond to the exposed areas of the article electrical contacts 360 and 365. That is, a connector electrical contact 232a configured to engage with the exposed area of ​​contact 360a is narrower than a connector electrical contact 232c configured to engage with the exposed area of ​​article electrical contact 360c. Similarly, a connector electrical contact 232c is narrower than a connector electrical contact 232e configured to engage with the exposed area of ​​article electrical contact 360e.

[0211] The connector electrical contact 232 extends (e.g., protrudes) within the article receiving portion 206 of the aerosol supply device 200 so that a secure connection is established between the corresponding connector electrical contact 232 and the article electrical contacts 360, 365 when the article 300 is fully inserted. Thus, when the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206, the lower surface of the connector electrical contact 232 contacts the outer surface of the article 300.

[0212] By varying the widths of both the connector contact 232 and the article contacts 360, 365 according to the embodiments shown in Figures 26 and 27, damage to the surfaces of the connector contact 232 and the article contacts 360, 365 can be prevented. When the article 300 is inserted into the aerosol supply device 200, the article electrical contact 360a slides first over the connector electrical contact 232e, then over the connector electrical contact 232c, without contacting either of the connector electrical contacts 232e, 232c, with respect to the article electrical contact 360a. Finally, when fully inserted, the connector electrical contact 232a comes into contact with the article electrical contact 360a, i.e., makes contact or engages. The fact that the width of the connector electrical contacts 232e and 232c is greater than the width of the exposed portion of the article electrical contact 360a means that when the article 300 is inserted, a portion of the underside of the connector electrical contacts 232e and 232c is supported by the outer layer 390 of the article 300 on both sides of the exposed portion of the contact 360a as it slides over the exposed portion of the contact 360a. Therefore, the underside of the connector electrical contacts 232e and 232c does not contact the exposed portion of the contact 360a before the article 300 is fully inserted. The width of the exposed portion of the article contact 360a corresponds to the width of the connector electrical contact 232a (i.e., the width of the exposed portion of the contact 360a is the same as or greater than the width of the connector electrical contact 232a), and thereafter, when the article 300 is fully inserted, the connector electrical contact 232a contacts the exposed portion of the contact 360a rather than being supported by the outer layer 390 of the article 300.

[0213] While the above embodiments are described in relation to varying the width of the exposed portions of the article contacts 360, 365, it should be understood that other dimensions of the exposed portions of the article contacts 360, 365 may also be varied. For example, the length and / or surface area of ​​the exposed portions of the article contacts 360, 365 may be varied in addition to or instead of width. Any dimensional changes may be implemented that result in the effect that the undersides of the connector electrical contacts 232e and 232c pass over one or more exposed portions of the contacts 360, 365 but do not come into contact with one or more exposed portions of the contacts 360, 365 before the article 300 is fully inserted.

[0214] The above arrangement may also preferably help detect the insertion of the article 300 into the aerosol supply device 200. For example, the aerosol supply device 200 may be arranged to detect that the article 300 has been fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206 of the aerosol supply device 200 by determining that each of the connector electrical contacts 232 is making contact or engaging with its corresponding article electrical contacts 360, 365. In other embodiments, it may be determined that the article 300 has been fully inserted into the device 200 when a connector electrical contact 232e engages with the article electrical contact 360e closest to the proximal end of the article 300. In other embodiments, contact engagement between any one or a combination of connector electrical contacts (e.g., 232a-232e) and their corresponding article electrical contacts (e.g., 360a-360e) may provide an indication that the article 300 has been fully inserted into the device. Determination of contact or engagement between connector electrical contacts (e.g., 232a-232e) and article electrical contacts (e.g., 360a-360e) may be achieved by detecting the presence of an electrical connection between them (e.g., non-infinite electrical resistance between connector electrical contacts 232a and 232e).

[0215] The changes in the shape of the exposed portions of the article contacts 360 and 365 necessary to achieve the above-described effects may vary depending on the rigidity of the material of the connector electrical contacts 232, the type of connector electrical contacts 232, the thickness of the outer layer 390 of the article, and other similar considerations.

[0216] Figure 28 shows an aerosol generator 304 of the article of Figure 26 formed from a blank. As can be seen in Figure 28, the aerosol generator 304 of the article includes an aerosol generating material 330 and a resistance heating structure 340 which includes one or more resistance heating elements 342a-342e configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material 330 to generate an aerosol. In some embodiments, as shown, for example in Figure 28, the resistance heating structure 340 is provided by a resistance heating layer formed on a plurality of resistance heating elements indicated by reference numbers 342a, 342b, 342c, 342d and 342e. Each of the resistance heating elements 342a-342e extends from each of the first type of electrical contacts (i.e., positive contacts) indicated by reference numbers 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d and 360e to a single second type of electrical contact 365 (i.e., negative contact).

[0217] The positive contacts 360a to 360e and the negative contact 365 are provided along the length of the conductive resistance heating layer 340. The electrical contact areas 360a to 360e and 365a are separated by an electrical insulation barrier 346.

[0218] The aerosol generation layer 330 is provided on the resistance heating layer 340. The blank is folded along the fold lines indicated by the dashed lines in the direction indicated by the arrows shown in Figure 28.

[0219] Figures 29 and 30 show different views of the folded aerosol generator 304 of Figure 28. Figure 29 is a schematic perspective view of the first side of the aerosol generator 304 of Figure 28. Figure 30 is a schematic perspective view of the second side of the aerosol generator 304 of Figure 29.

[0220] In some embodiments, the first panel 375 on the first surface of the folded aerosol generator 304 shown in Figure 30 includes heating elements 342a to 342e. The second panel 376 of the aerosol generator, which includes electrical contacts 360a to 360e shown in Figure 29, is formed on the second surface of the aerosol generator 304 opposite the first surface. The aerosol generating layer 330 is provided on the first panel 375.

[0221] As shown in Figure 26, when an outer layer is added to surround an article 300 which may include an aerosol generator 304 as shown in Figures 29 and 30, the electrical contacts 360a-360e and 365 are exposed through openings in the outer layer 390 that align with the respective different contacts 360a-360e and 365.

[0222] In other embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 may be single-sided rather than folded. In these single-sided configurations, the heating elements 342a-342e and corresponding electrical contacts 360a-360c may be arranged across the width and / or length of the surface of the resistance heating layer 340. Openings in the outer layer 390 may be positioned to expose the respective different electrical contacts on the resistance heating layer 340.

[0223] As described above, varying the widths of the connector electrical contacts 232a to 232e along with the widths of the article electrical contacts 360a to 360e and 365 is one way in which damage to the contacts within the device 200 and article 300 can be avoided. However, the applicant understands that there are further configurations in which damage can be minimized.

[0224] Figure 31 is a schematic perspective view of article 300 for an aerosol supply device 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Article 300 has at least a first article electrical contact 360a and a second article electrical contact 360b that provides electrical connections to one or more resistance heating elements 342a-342e. The embodiment shown in Figure 31 includes a plurality of further article electrical contacts 360c-360e, 365. At least the first article electrical contact 360a and the second article electrical contact 360b, and in some embodiments the further article electrical contacts 360c-360e, 365 as well, are spaced apart from each of the other article electrical contacts in a direction perpendicular to or around the insertion axis 380, and each of the article electrical contacts may also be spaced apart along a direction parallel to the insertion axis 380.

[0225] In the embodiment of article 300 shown in Figure 31, article 300 includes a non-conductive (i.e., electrically insulating) outer layer 390, and article electrical contacts 360a-360e and 365 are exposed to the outside of article 300 through a plurality of openings in the outer layer 390. The openings correspond to the article electrical contacts 360a-360e and 365 shown in Figure 31.

[0226] Each opening exposes a portion of each different article electrical contact 360a-360e, 365, each providing an electrical connection to the resistance heating elements 342a-342e. In the embodiment shown in Figure 31, the exposed portions of the electrical contacts are distributed along the length of the article in a direction parallel to the insertion axis of the article 300, as described above, and at the same time staggered, i.e., spaced apart, across the width of the article in a direction perpendicular to the insertion axis of the article.

[0227] Figure 32 shows an aerosol generator 304 of the article 300 of Figure 31 as it is formed. As can be seen in Figure 32, the aerosol generator 304 of the article may include an aerosol generating material 330 and a resistance heating component 340 which includes one or more resistance heating elements 342a to 342e configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material 330 to generate an aerosol.

[0228] A pre-folded configuration of a portion of the article 300 shown in Figure 32 defines a blank for forming an aerosol generator 304. In the embodiment shown in Figure 32, the resistance heating configuration 340 is provided by a resistance heating layer 340 formed as a plurality of heating elements 342. A plurality of first type electrical contacts 360 (e.g., positive electrical contacts), indicated by reference numbers 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d, and 360e, are provided along the first edge of the conductive layer (one contact is shown for each heating element). A single second type electrical contact 365 is provided along the second edge of the resistance heating layer 340. Each of the plurality of heating elements extends from the first type electrical contact to the second type electrical contact. The aerosol generating layer 200 is located on the resistance heating layer 340.

[0229] Next, the blank is folded along the fold lines indicated by the dashed lines in the direction indicated by the arrows in Figure 32. In this embodiment, the folds are formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generator 304. Two folds are formed. A first panel 375 containing a heating element 342 is defined. A second panel 376 containing a plurality of first type electrical contacts 360 is formed. A third panel 377 containing second type electrical contacts 365 is formed. The aerosol generating layer 330 is located on the first panel 375.

[0230] Figure 33 is a one-sided plan view of the aerosol generator 304 of article 300 in Figure 31. Figure 33 shows the outer surface of the folded aerosol generator 304, including the second panel 376 and the third panel 377.

[0231] As shown in Figure 31, when an outer layer 390 is added to surround article 300, the electrical contacts 360a to 360e are exposed through openings in the outer layer that align with the respective different contacts 360a to 360e and 365.

[0232] In other configurations, the resistance heating layer may be single-sided rather than folded. In these single-sided configurations, the electrical contacts 360a to 360c may be arranged across the width and / or length of the surface of the resistance heating layer 340. Openings in the outer layer 390 may be positioned to expose each of the different electrical contacts of the resistance heating layer 340.

[0233] Figure 34 is a schematic side view of the aerosol supply system 100 for use with the article 300 shown in Figure 31, with the article 300 inserted. Figure 35 is a schematic top view of the aerosol supply system 100 shown in Figure 34. Figures 34 and 35 show the article 300 from Figure 31 fully inserted into the aerosol supply device 200.

[0234] The aerosol supply device 200 shown in Figures 34 and 35 comprises an article receiving portion 206 including a cavity into which an article 300 is inserted during use, the cavity having a receiving axis 280 into which the article 300 is inserted along the receiving axis 280, and an electrical connector 230 for supplying power to the article 300 received by the article receiving portion 206. The electrical connector 230 includes a first connector electrical contact 232a positioned to engage with a first article electrical contact 360a when the article 300 is fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206, and a second connector electrical contact 232b configured to engage with a second article electrical contact 360b when the article 300 is fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206.

[0235] As can be seen in Figure 34, each side of article 300 may engage with a corresponding set of connector electrical contacts 232, 234. The first side of article 300 engages with the first set of connector electrical contacts 232 when article 300 is fully inserted, and the second side of article 300 engages with the second set of connector electrical contacts 234 when article 300 is fully inserted. Although not shown, the second side of article 300 is provided with the same arrangement of exposed article electrical contacts 360, 365 as shown in Figure 31 for engagement with the second set of connector electrical contacts 234. In this embodiment, although the arrangement is identical, the positions of the article electrical contacts 360, 365 and the corresponding second set of connector electrical contacts 234 may differ from those on the first side. The connector electrical contacts 232 and 234 apply force to both sides of the article 300 when the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206 and / or when the article 300 is fully received within the article receiving portion 206. Applying force to both sides of the article 300 ensures that the article 300 takes on the proper position within the article receiving portion 206, i.e., that it is horizontal and / or perpendicular within it. This may help ensure that the system 100 functions properly.

[0236] As shown in Figure 35, the first and second connector electrical contacts 232a and 232b are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to or around the receiving axis 280 so that when the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206, the first device electrical contact 232a does not contact the second article electrical contact 360b, and the second device electrical contact 232b does not contact the first article electrical contact 360a. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 35, for example, the first and second connector electrical contacts 232a and 232b are also spaced apart along the length of the receiving axis 280.

[0237] As shown in Figure 35, the device 200 comprises a plurality of further connector electrical contacts 232c-232e, 235, each of which is also spaced apart from other connector electrical contacts in a direction perpendicular to or around the receiving axis 280. Each of the connector electrical contacts 232c-232e, 235 may also be spaced apart from other connector electrical contacts in a direction parallel to the receiving axis 280.

[0238] In the embodiments shown in Figures 34 and 35, the connector electrical contacts 232, 234 press against the outer layer of the article 300 before the article 300 is fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206 and engages with its respective article electrical contacts 260, 265. However, the article electrical contacts 360, 365 and the connector electrical contacts 232, 234 are configured such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion 206 but not yet fully inserted, each connector electrical contact 232, 234 contacts only the outer surface of the article and not the corresponding article electrical contact.

[0239] As shown in Figure 35 and described above, each set of connector electrical contacts 232, 234 is arranged so that they are staggered across the width of the device at positions corresponding to the article electrical contacts 360, 365 of the article 300. When the article 300 is inserted into the aerosol supply device 200, each connector electrical contact 232 slides only on the outer layer 390 of the article 300 and does not contact any of the exposed areas of the other article electrical contacts 360 before the article 300 is fully inserted. Only when the article 300 is fully inserted do each of the article electrical contacts 360, 365 align and engage with their respective corresponding connector electrical contacts 232, providing a secure electrical connection.

[0240] This arrangement may preferably reduce wear on both the connector electrical contacts 232, 234 and the article electrical contacts 360, 365. This may be particularly important in embodiments in which the article electrical contacts 360, 365 include thin metal foil. In such embodiments, sliding the article 300 within the aerosol supply device 200 may damage or tear the foil.

[0241] The connector electrical contacts 232 shown in Figures 34 and 35 may include leaf spring contacts, but alternative types of electrical contacts can also be used. For example, rollerball contacts or pogo pin contacts can be used instead for some or all of the connector electrical contacts 232, 234.

[0242] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 27 to 35, a more secure connection between the connector electrical contacts 232 and the article electrical contacts 360 and 365 can be provided by exposing a small area of ​​the article electrical contacts 360 and 365 and covering the rest of the article electrical contacts 360 and 365 with the outer layer 390. When the article 300 is fully inserted, the lower surface of the connector electrical contacts 232 seats in a recess formed by the opening of the outer layer 390, which may reduce the likelihood of the article 300 moving from its fully inserted position.

[0243] In the embodiments described above, the article 300 may be considered substantially flat or planar, and therefore the article electrical contacts are displaced in a direction perpendicular to the insertion axis 380. In other embodiments, it is assumed that the article 300 may be non-planar. For example, the article 300 may be in the form of a tube, such as a cylindrical tube. In such embodiments, the article electrical contacts may be spaced around the insertion axis of the article, rather than perpendicular to such an axis, and the same advantages as above may be achieved. The same applies to aerosol supply devices.

[0244] The applicant understands that further configurations may exist to reduce the risk of wear between the connector electrical contacts and the article electrical contacts. Figure 36 is a schematic perspective view of a rollerball contact 510 for an aerosol supply device 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 37 is a schematic side view of the central portion of the rollerball contact 510 of Figure 36. The rollerball contact 510 may be used for some or all of the connector electrical contacts 232 in embodiments of the aerosol supply device 200 described herein. The rollerball contact 510 includes a ball component 512 configured to rotate within a corresponding socket component 514. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 36, the socket component 514 holds the ball component 512. An elastic member 516 may also be provided within the retaining socket component 514. The elastic member 516 may include a spring element, such as the one shown in Figure 37, in the form of a helical spring. The ball component 512 may be positioned to rotate within the socket component 514 against a biasing resistance applied by the elastic member 516, that is, the elastic member 516 may elastically bias the ball component 512 within the socket component 514.

[0245] At least the outer surface of the ball component 512 includes a conductive material. Part or all of the rollerball contact 510 may be manufactured from a material including a metal alloy. The metal alloy may have good conductive properties. The metal alloy may be a copper alloy, and in some specific embodiments, the copper alloy is a beryllium copper alloy. The maximum current rating of the contact may be up to 10A. In some embodiments, the maximum current rating may be 9A.

[0246] The ball component 512 may be manufactured from the same material as either the retaining socket component 514 or / or the elastic member 516. However, the ball 512 and the retaining socket component 514 and / or the elastic member 516 may be manufactured from different materials.

[0247] The roller ball contact 510 may be arranged within the device 200 such that the outer surface of the ball component 512 contacts the corresponding article electrical contact 360 when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. In some embodiments, the elastic member 516 is electrically conductive and may provide an electrical connection between the ball 512 and a further electrical component of the aerosol supply device 200. Alternatively or additionally, the socket component 514 is electrically conductive and may provide an electrical connection between the ball component 512 and a further electrical component of the aerosol supply device 200. The further electrical component may comprise, for example, a printed circuit board, a power supply, or any other suitable electrical component within the device 200.

[0248] As discussed above, in some embodiments, the article 300 may be inserted into an aerosol supply device by sliding the article 300 along the longitudinal axis into the article receiving portion 206. In these embodiments, when the article 300 is inserted into the aerosol supply device, the outer surface of the article 300 may contact the connector electrical contacts 232. The use of roller ball contacts 510 for one or more of the connector electrical contacts 232 may be suitable in such embodiments because the resistance exhibited by the roller ball contacts 510 is reduced when the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206 and the outer surface of the article 300 contacts the ball 512. This may further reduce wear or damage to the outer surface of the article 300 including the connector electrical contacts 232 (i.e., the roller ball contact 510) and / or any article electrical contacts 360, 365 during insertion.

[0249] FIG. 38A is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol supply device 200 comprising the roller ball contact 510 of FIGS. 36 and 37. FIG. 38B is a further schematic perspective view of the aerosol supply system 100 of FIG. 38A.

[0250] The aerosol supply device 200 shown in Figs. 38A and 38B comprises an article receiving portion 206 including a cavity shaped to receive an article 300 during use. The article 300 includes one or more resistive heating elements 342 (not shown) and a plurality of article electrical contacts 360, 365 that provide electrical connection to the one or more resistive heating elements 342 within the article 300.

[0251] The aerosol supply device 200 further comprises an electrical connector 230 for supplying power to the article 300 received by the article receiving portion 206. The electrical connector 230 includes a plurality of connector electrical contacts 232. Each connector electrical contact 232 is arranged to engage with a corresponding one of the article electrical contacts 360, 365 (not shown) when the article 300 is fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206. Figs. 38A and 38B show the article 300 in the fully inserted position.

[0252] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 38A and 38B, each of the plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 includes a roller ball contact 510 comprising a ball component 512 configured to rotate within a corresponding socket component 514. It should be understood that in other embodiments, some of the plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 may include different types of electrical contacts, for example leaf springs. The outer surface of each ball 512 is configured to contact a corresponding article electrical contact 360 when the article 300 is fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206.

[0253] As shown in Fig. 38A, the socket component 514 of each connector electrical contact 232 may be fixed to a printed circuit board 230 in the aerosol supply device 200, or indeed any other suitable electrical component, and may protrude into the aerosol receiving portion 206. When the article 300 is fully inserted into the aerosol receiving portion 206, each connector electrical contact 232 contacts a different respective article electrical contact 360 to provide an electrical connection. When inserting the article 300 into the article receiving portion 206, the surface of the ball component 512 of the roller ball contact 510 slides over the surface of other exposed article electrical contacts 360 along the length of the article 300.

[0254] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 38A and 38B, one or more of the connector electrical contacts 232 may be positioned to slide over and contact the article electrical contacts 360, 365, which form part of the outer surface of the article 300 when the article 300 is inserted. Reducing the pressure exerted on the surface of the article electrical contacts 360, 365 as the connector electrical contacts 232 slide over them may be particularly important for such embodiments to avoid damage to the article electrical contacts.

[0255] The use of the roller ball contact 510 may also have the effect of cleaning the surface of the ball 512 as it rotates within the socket of the retaining socket component 514. This may preferably improve the electrical connection provided between the connector electrical contact 232 and the article electrical contact when the article 300 is fully inserted.

[0256] In the various embodiments discussed above, the article electrical contacts were described as providing an electrical connection to the heating element of the article; however, one or more of the article electrical contacts may instead provide an electrical connection to another electrical component of the article. Similarly, while various embodiments in which the receiving portion includes a cavity have been described, it is assumed that the receiving portion may have any suitable form for receiving the article. The receiving portion may include a receptacle into which the article is inserted when in use.

[0257] In some embodiments of the aerosol generators and different arrangements of articles described above, the aerosol-generating material is formed in a configuration other than as an aerosol-generating layer. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of an aerosol-generating segment. An aerosol-generating segment generally comprises a solid material. Such a solid material may be shredded tobacco. For example, an aerosol-generating material arranged as an aerosol-generating segment may comprise a plurality of individual aerosol-generating material pieces. The aerosol-generating material may also comprise individual tobacco material pieces. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of strips, beads, or pellets. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment is a mass of material.

[0258] In the embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment includes a material body. The aerosol-generating material is non-liquid. In such embodiments, the material body includes a rod of the aerosol-generating material, for example, a tobacco rod. For example, the material body may include shredded tobacco material. The material body may be formed into a rod. In some embodiments, the material body includes shredded rag tobacco formed into a rod. The aerosol-generating material may include tobacco material. The aerosol-generating material may include extruded tobacco. The aerosol-generating material may include reconstituted tobacco.

[0259] The aerosol-generating material, formed as a solid material, may contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may contain tobacco, be made from tobacco, or be essentially made from tobacco. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain tobacco.

[0260] In any of the embodiments described above, heating the article provides a relatively constant release of volatile compounds into an inhalable medium. In one embodiment described above, the aerosol-generating segment is a mass of material. The article may include a mouthpiece end section. A tubular element may be located between the aerosol-generating material and the mouthpiece end section. The article may include a ventilation area in the mouthpiece end section. The mouthpiece end section may define a mouthpiece configured to be positioned between the user's lips.

[0261] In any embodiment of the article described above, a resistance heating element or each resistance heating element is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating segment in the embodiment is at least substantially cylindrical. In the embodiment, the aerosol-generating segment is at least partially enclosed by a resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element extends within the aerosol-generating segment. The resistance heating element may extend around the aerosol-generating segment. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element surrounds the aerosol-generating segment. In some arrangements, at least a portion of the flow path through the article passes through the aerosol-generating segment. The aerosol-generating segment may define a portion of the air path. In the embodiment, a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact are exposed from the aerosol-generating segment.

[0262] The aerosol-generating material may include tobacco materials such as those described herein, which include tobacco components. In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco components may include paper-reconstructed tobacco. The tobacco components may also include loose-leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and / or band-cast tobacco. The tobacco material may be provided in the form of shredded rag tobacco. Shredded rag tobacco can be formed from a mixture of forms of tobacco materials, for example, a mixture of one or more of paper-reconstructed tobacco, loose-leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and band-cast tobacco. In embodiments, the tobacco material includes paper-reconstructed tobacco, or a mixture of paper-reconstructed tobacco and loose-leaf tobacco. In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco material may include filler components. Filler components are generally components that do not contain non-tobacco components, i.e., raw materials derived from tobacco. Filler components may be non-tobacco fibers such as wood fibers or pulp or wheat fibers. Filler components may also be inorganic materials such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, and magnesium carbonate. Filler components may also be non-tobacco cast materials or non-tobacco extruded materials. Filler components may be present in amounts of 0 wt% to 20 wt% of the tobacco material, or in amounts of 1 wt% to 10 wt% 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 aerosol formation. Aerosol-forming agent materials may promote aerosol formation by promoting the initial vaporization and / or condensation of gas into inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosols. In some embodiments, aerosol-forming agent materials may improve the delivery of flavor from the aerosol-forming material. In general, any suitable aerosol-forming agent material or agent, including those described herein, may be included in the aerosol-forming material of the present invention.

[0263] Paper-reconstructed tobacco refers to tobacco material formed by a process in which tobacco raw materials are extracted with a solvent to obtain an extract of soluble substances and a residue containing fibrous material, and then the extract (usually after concentration and optionally after further processing) is recombined with fibrous material from the residue (usually after purification of the fibrous material and optionally with the addition of a portion of non-tobacco fibers) by depositing the extract onto the fibrous material. The recombination process is similar to the process of making paper.

[0264] 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 limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or to equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be used and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or essentially consist of, appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Furthermore, 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, A resistance heating configuration comprising an aerosol generating material and one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, Multiple article electrical contacts providing electrical connections to one or more resistance heating elements articles including an aerosol supply system comprising, An article receiving portion including a cavity into which the article is inserted during use, wherein the cavity has a receiving axis and the article is inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in the article receiving portion, Multiple connector electrical contacts, wherein each of the multiple connector electrical contacts is arranged to engage with a corresponding one of the multiple article electrical contacts when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Including electrical connectors and aerosol supply device equipped with Furthermore, Each of the plurality of article electrical contacts is spaced apart from one another in a direction parallel to the insertion axis of the article, and the insertion axis extends in the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion of the aerosol supply device. The plurality of connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the receiving axis of the article receiving portion, The plurality of connector electrical contacts are sized such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, at least one of the plurality of connector electrical contacts passes over at least one of the heater electrical contacts, and when the article is fully inserted into the receiving portion, it passes without contacting the at least one of the article electrical contacts before engaging with the corresponding article electrical contact. Aerosol supply system.

2. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of article electrical contacts and the plurality of connector electrical contacts are arranged in straight lines extending parallel to the insertion axis and the receiving axis, respectively.

3. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cavity includes an opening into which the article is inserted, and the width of each connector electrical contact increases in the direction toward the opening.

4. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the article includes a distal end that is inserted into the cavity, and the width of the electrical contacts of the article increases in the direction away from the distal end.

5. An article receiving portion including a cavity into which an article is inserted during use, wherein the article includes an aerosol generating material, a resistance heating component including one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, and a plurality of article electrical contacts providing electrical connections to the one or more heating elements, the article receiving portion having a receiving axis, and the article being inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in the article receiving portion, Multiple connector electrical contacts, wherein each of the multiple connector electrical contacts is arranged to engage with a corresponding one of the multiple article electrical contacts when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Including electrical connectors and Equipped with, The plurality of connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the receiving axis of the article receiving portion. The plurality of connector electrical contacts are sized such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, at least one of the plurality of connector electrical contacts passes over at least one of the article electrical contacts, and when the article is fully inserted into the receiving portion, it passes without contacting the at least one of the article electrical contacts before engaging with the corresponding article electrical contact. Aerosol supply device.

6. A resistance heating configuration comprising an aerosol generating material and one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, Multiple article electrical contacts providing electrical connections to one or more resistance heating elements Articles for aerosol supply devices, including, Each of the plurality of article electrical contacts is spaced apart from one another in a direction parallel to the insertion axis of the article, and the insertion axis extends in the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion of the aerosol supply device. Each of the plurality of article electrical contacts includes an exposed conductive element surrounded by an electrical insulating element, wherein the exposed conductive element is sized such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, at least one of the plurality of article electrical contacts engages with a first connector electrical contact on the aerosol supply device, and when the article is fully inserted into the receiving portion, the connector electrical contact passes through without contacting the conductive element of the article electrical contact before reaching a position where the conductive element of the article electrical contact engages with a further connector electrical contact. Goods.

7. Articles, A resistance heating configuration comprising an aerosol generating material and one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, At least a first article electrical contact and a second article electrical contact that provide electrical connections to one or more resistance heating elements Articles including an aerosol supply system comprising, An article receiving portion including a cavity into which the article is inserted during use, wherein the cavity has a receiving axis and the article is inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in the article receiving portion, A first connector electrical contact is provided, which is positioned to engage with the first article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion, and A second connector electrical contact configured to engage with the second article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Including electrical connectors and aerosol supply device equipped with Furthermore, The article has an insertion axis that extends in a direction parallel to the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, and the first and second article electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the insertion axis or around the insertion axis. The first and second connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the receiving axis or around the receiving axis such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the first device electrical contact does not come into contact with the second article electrical contact, and the second device electrical contact does not come into contact with the first article electrical contact. Aerosol supply system.

8. The aerosol supply system according to claim 7, wherein the first and second connector electrical contacts and / or the first and second article electrical contacts are spaced apart along the length of the receiving axis and / or insertion axis, respectively.

9. A plurality of further article electrical contacts, each of which is spaced apart from each of the other article electrical contacts in a direction perpendicular to the insertion axis or around the insertion axis, and optionally, each of which is spaced apart along a direction parallel to the insertion axis, A plurality of further connector electrical contacts, each of which is spaced apart from other connector electrical contacts in a direction perpendicular to the receiving axis or around the receiving axis, and optionally, each of which is spaced apart along a direction parallel to the receiving axis, and The aerosol supply system according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising:

10. A resistance heating configuration comprising an aerosol generating material and one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material in order to generate an aerosol, At least a first article electrical contact and a second article electrical contact that provide electrical connections to one or more resistance heating elements Articles for aerosol supply devices, including, The article is configured to be received in the article receiving portion of the aerosol supply device when in use, the article receiving portion includes a cavity into which the article is inserted during use, and the electrical connector includes a first connector electrical contact positioned to engage with the first article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion, and a second connector electrical contact configured to engage with the second article electrical contact, The article has an insertion axis extending in a direction parallel to the direction in which the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, and the first and second article electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to or around the insertion axis such that the first device electrical contact does not contact the second article electrical contact and the second device electrical contact does not contact the first article electrical contact when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion. Goods.

11. Aerosol supply device, Article receiving portion including a cavity into which an article is inserted during use, wherein the article includes an aerosol generating material, a resistance heating configuration including one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, and a plurality of article electrical contacts providing electrical connections to the one or more resistance heating elements, wherein the cavity has a receiving axis, and the article is inserted into the cavity along the receiving axis. Equipped with, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in the article receiving portion, A first connector electrical contact is provided, which is positioned to engage with the first electrical contact of the article when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion, and A second connector electrical contact configured to engage with the second article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Electrical connectors Furthermore, The first and second connector electrical contacts are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the receiving axis or around the receiving axis such that when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, the first device electrical contact does not come into contact with the second article electrical contact, and the second device electrical contact does not come into contact with the first article electrical contact. Aerosol supply device.

12. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the article and the article receiving portion each have a cylindrical or rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the insertion axis or the receiving axis.

13. Aerosol supply device, Article receiving portion comprising a cavity molded to receive an article during use, wherein the article comprises an aerosol generating material, a resistance heating configuration comprising one or more resistance heating elements configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, and a plurality of article electrical contacts providing electrical connections to the one or more resistance heating elements, Equipped with, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received in the article receiving portion, Multiple connector electrical contacts, wherein each connector electrical contact is arranged to engage with a corresponding article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Electrical connectors Furthermore, At least one of the plurality of connector electrical contacts includes a roller ball contact comprising a ball component configured to rotate within a corresponding socket component, wherein at least the outer surface of the ball component comprises a conductive material, and the outer surface of the ball is configured to contact the corresponding article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion. Aerosol supply device.

14. The aerosol supply device according to claim 13, further comprising a spring element that elastically biases the ball component within the socket.

15. The aerosol supply device according to claim 14, wherein the spring element and / or socket component is conductive, providing an electrical connection between the ball component and further electrical components of the aerosol supply device.

16. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the further electrical component includes a power supply component.

17. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the socket component holds the ball component.

18. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the connector electrical contact includes at least one of a leaf spring, an elastically biased pin, or a rollerball contact.

19. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the connector electrical contacts apply force to both sides of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion.

20. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the article includes a non-conductive outer layer, and the electrical contacts of the article are exposed to the outside of the article through at least one opening, for example, a plurality of openings in the outer layer.

21. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion, at least one of the connector electrical contacts presses against the outer layer of the article before engaging with the respective article electrical contact when the article is fully inserted into the article receiving portion.

22. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the article electrical contacts and the connector electrical contacts are configured such that each connector electrical contact contacts only the outer surface of the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion but is not yet fully inserted.

23. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 22, further comprising an electric track extending from one or more of the resistive heating elements, wherein the electric track provides an electrical contact for the article.

24. The aerosol supply device, system, or article according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the resistance heating configuration includes a plurality of resistance heating elements arranged to heat different portions of the aerosol generating material, respectively.

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