Aerosol supply device

Abstract

The aerosol supply device comprises an article receiving portion configured to receive an article comprising an aerosol generating material and a heating configuration comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material during use. The aerosol supply device also comprises an electrical connector for supplying power to the article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with a plurality of corresponding heater electrical contacts of the article. At least one of the plurality of connector electrical contacts is configured to engage with the article received by the article receiving portion in such a manner that it resists removal of the article from the article receiving portion.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and an article for the aerosol supply device, wherein the article comprises an aerosol-generating material. [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 burning. Examples of such products are so-called "heat-not-burn" products, or tobacco heating devices or products, which release compounds by heating a material without combusting it. 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 devices or products are known. A typical system uses a heater to generate an 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 aerosols from a suitable medium. [Summary of the Invention]

[0004] There is provided an aerosol supply device comprising: an article receiving portion configured to receive, in use, an article comprising an aerosol-generating material and a heating arrangement comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol-generating material; and an electrical connector for supplying power to the article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with a corresponding plurality of heater electrical contacts of the article, wherein at least one connector electrical contact among the plurality of connector electrical contacts is configured to engage with the article received in the article receiving portion so as to resist removal of the article from the article receiving portion.

[0005] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is configured to move between a first position and a second position, in which case at least one connector electrical contact is configured to engage with an article received in the article receiving portion.

[0006] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is arranged to contact the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion and to be moved by the article.

[0007] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is configured to move from a first position to a second position as a result of the complete insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

[0008] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is configured to move from an initial position to a first position as a result of the initial insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

[0009] In the embodiment, at the first position, at least one connector electrical contact is arranged to allow an article to be inserted into the article receiving portion.

[0010] In the embodiment, when in the initial position, at least one connector electrical contact is extended to its maximum extent into the article receiving portion.

[0011] In the embodiment, when in the first position, at least one connector electrical contact protrudes less into the article receiving portion than when in the initial position and / or the second position.

[0012] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is biased to move from a first position to a second position.

[0013] In the embodiment, at least one actuator is configured to move at least one connector electrical contact between a first position and a second position.

[0014] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device includes a controller configured to control the movement of at least one connector electrical contact between a first position and a second position by at least one actuator.

[0015] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device includes an article detection sensor configured to detect the insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

[0016] In this embodiment, the controller is configured to move at least one actuator from an initial position to a first position in response to the object detection sensor detecting the start of insertion of an object into the object receiving portion.

[0017] In this embodiment, the controller is configured to move at least one actuator from a first position to a second position in response to the object detection sensor detecting the complete insertion of an object into the object receiving portion.

[0018] In the embodiment, the aerosol supply device comprises one or more control elements configured to be operated by a user.

[0019] In this embodiment, the controller is configured to move at least one actuator to move at least one electrical contact from an initial position to a first position in response to a predetermined operation of one or more control elements by a user.

[0020] In this embodiment, the controller is configured to move at least one actuator to move at least one electrical contact from a first position to a second position in response to a predetermined operation of one or more control elements by a user.

[0021] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is deformable.

[0022] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact comprises at least one spring.

[0023] In the embodiment, at least one spring comprises at least one leaf spring.

[0024] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is attached to at least one deformable member.

[0025] In the embodiment, at least one deformable member comprises at least one spring.

[0026] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device comprises at least one pogo pin, the at least one pogo pin comprising at least one connector electrical contact and at least one deformable member.

[0027] In the embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is molded to engage with at least one corresponding engagement mechanism of an article received in the article receiving portion in order to resist the removal of the article from the article receiving portion.

[0028] In an embodiment, at least one connector electrical contact is configured to provide sensory feedback to a user of the device when the at least one connector electrical contact engages with an article, for example, when the at least one connector electrical contact moves to a second position, for example, when the at least one connector electrical contact engages with at least one engagement mechanism of an article received in an article receiving portion. The sensory feedback may comprise audible feedback. In such embodiments, an audible sound (e.g., a click sound or a snap sound) may be generated when the at least one connector electrical contact engages with the article (e.g., the at least one engagement mechanism thereof). In some embodiments, the sensory feedback can comprise haptic feedback (e.g., vibration) that can be felt by a user holding the device. In such embodiments, the engagement between the at least one connector electrical contact and the article, for example the engagement mechanism thereof, can cause a vibration perceptible to the user's hand to pass through the body of the device. In other embodiments, the sensory feedback may be visual feedback. In such embodiments, the device may be configured (e.g., with a suitable transparent component, or a suitable arrangement of components) such that it is possible to visually observe that the at least one connector electrical contact has engaged with the article, for example the at least one engagement mechanism thereof. In any of the above-described embodiments, the physical movement of the at least one connector electrical contact when it engages with the article can directly generate sensory feedback, for example, the movement itself can directly generate sound or directly generate vibration. For example, movement of the at least one connector electrical contact to the second position can generate (i.e., directly generate) sensory (e.g., audible or haptic) feedback. The sensory feedback can be considered mechanical feedback (rather than electronic feedback) generated as a result of physical engagement between the at least one connector electrical contact and the article (e.g., the engagement mechanism thereon).

[0029] In an embodiment, the at least one connector electrical contact is moved between a first position and a second position by a user operating a mechanical component of an aerosol supply device that drives movement of the at least one connector electrical contact.

[0030] In an embodiment, the connector electrical contact is configured to engage with a corresponding article electrical contact on an article.

[0031] According to one aspect, there is provided an article for an aerosol supply device, comprising: an aerosol-generating material; a heating arrangement comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol-generating material, the heating arrangement comprising a plurality of article electrical contacts for receiving supply of power to the one or more heating elements; and one or more engagement mechanisms configured to engage with one or more connector electrical contacts of the aerosol supply device, the aerosol supply device being configured to receive the article such that the plurality of connector electrical contacts engage with the plurality of article electrical contacts, wherein the one or more engagement mechanisms are configured such that when the article is received by the aerosol supply device, removal of the article from the aerosol supply device is resisted by engagement of the one or more engagement mechanisms with the one or more connector electrical contacts of the aerosol supply device.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the at least one engagement mechanism comprises at least one recess.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the article comprises an insulating outer layer, the insulating outer layer comprises at least one opening exposing at least one article electrical contact, and the at least one opening forms the at least one recess.

[0034] In any of the above embodiments, the at least one engagement mechanism comprises at least one protrusion.

[0035] In any of the above embodiments, the insulating outer layer comprises a plurality of sub-layers that together define the opening.

[0036] In any of the above embodiments, the heating element comprises a resistance heating element.

[0037] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of a sheet.

[0038] In any of the embodiments described above, the heating configuration comprises an array of at least two heating elements.

[0039] In any of the embodiments described above, one or more heating elements of the array are in contact with a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0040] In any of the embodiments described above, one or more heating elements of the array are arranged in the form of layers.

[0041] In any of the embodiments described above, each of the one or more heating elements comprises a track of conductive material that provides a conductive path for resistively heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material.

[0042] In any of the embodiments described above, each article electrical contact of an article comprises an exposed area of ​​a heating element that provides access to each of the plurality of connector electrical contacts.

[0043] In any of the above embodiments, each heating element extends between the electrical contacts of a pair of articles.

[0044] In any of the embodiments described above, a majority of the heating elements extend from a common article electrical contact.

[0045] In any of the embodiments described above, at least one of the connector electrical contacts is a leaf spring, the leaf spring having an angled portion that engages with an article when inserted into the article receiving portion, the article being inserted along a receiving shaft, and the angle between the receiving shaft and the angled portion is 45° or less, for example 35° or less, for example 30° or less.

[0046] In any of the embodiments described above, the connector electrical contact comprises a first connector electrical contact and a second electrical contact, wherein the first connector electrical contact is positioned to act on a first surface of the article, and the second connector electrical contact is positioned to act on a second surface on the opposite side of the article.

[0047] In any of the embodiments described above, the article may be formed from multiple layers. The multiple layers may form a layered structure. At least one of the layers may comprise a resistance heating layer, and at least one of the layers may comprise an aerosol generating layer. At least one of the layers may comprise a support configured to support the resistance heating layer. At least one of the layers may define at least partially an air passage through the article. At least one of the layers may comprise an outermost layer surrounding at least one other layer of the article (e.g., a resistance heating layer). The outermost layer can be thought of as a wrap or sleeve. At least one of the multiple layers may form the body of the article. At least one such layer of the multiple layers forming the body of the article can be thought of as a body layer. At least one of the layers may define an air inlet and / or air outlet of the article, or in fact any other mechanism of the article.

[0048] In any of the embodiments described above, the outside 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.

[0049] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of an aerosol-generating layer.

[0050] In any of the above embodiments, the heating configuration and the aerosol generating material together form an aerosol generator.

[0051] In any of the above embodiments, the heating configuration comprises a resistance heating layer. The resistance heating layer may define one or more heating elements.

[0052] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a support configured to support a resistance heating layer.

[0053] In any of the above embodiments, the support comprises a support layer.

[0054] In any of the above embodiments, the support is electrically insulating.

[0055] In any of the above embodiments, the support comprises at least one of paper and card.

[0056] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0057] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material is indirectly in contact with the resistance heating layer.

[0058] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating layer and the support layer define the substrate.

[0059] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a laminate having a resistance heating layer and a support layer.

[0060] In any of the above embodiments, the laminate includes an aerosol-generating material. In any of the above embodiments, the laminate comprises an aerosol-generating layer.

[0061] In any of the above embodiments, the support layer comprises a card layer.

[0062] In any of the embodiments described above, the article electrical contact may comprise at least a first type of electrical contact and a second type of electrical contact.

[0063] 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.

[0064] In any of the embodiments described above, the support defines the exposed contact area of ​​the first type of electrical contact.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises a plurality of individual aerosol generating portions. In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer comprises a plurality of individual aerosol generating portions.

[0069] In any of the above embodiments, one or more heating elements may include resistance heating elements.

[0070] In any of the embodiments described above, the resistance heating element is one of a plurality of resistance heating elements.

[0071] 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.

[0072] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating layer comprises at least one of dots, strips, and patches.

[0073] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is a first heating element, the resistance heating layer forms a second resistance heating element, and each resistance heating element provides a conductive path for resistively heating a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol in each portion of the aerosol generating material.

[0074] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer forms an array of resistance heating elements comprising at least a first resistance heating element and a second resistance heating element.

[0075] 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.

[0076] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generating layer comprises a film or gel layer containing an aerosol generating material.

[0077] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a plurality of first-type electrical contacts, and each of the heating elements comprises a separate first-type electrical contact.

[0078] In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol generator comprises a plurality of second types of electrical contacts, and each of the resistance heating elements comprises a separate second type of electrical contact.

[0079] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a single second type of electrical contact.

[0080] In any of the embodiments described above, a single second type of electrical contact is shared among each of the resistive heating elements.

[0081] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating element is formed by at least one of the following steps: cutting the resistance heating layer, chemically etching the resistance heating layer, forming or pressing the resistance heating layer within a substrate, and printing the resistance heating layer.

[0082] In any of the above embodiments, the resistance heating layer is in the form of a foil.

[0083] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply system is provided comprising an article for any of the above-described aerosol supply devices and any of the above-described aerosol supply devices.

[0084] Next, various embodiments will be described as mere examples, with reference to the attached schematic diagram. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0085] [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 surface 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 diagram of an aerosol supply device and an article for an aerosol supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device and an article for an aerosol supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device and an article for an aerosol supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0086] As used herein, the term “delivery mechanism” is intended to encompass systems for delivering substances to a user, and includes non-combustible aerosol delivery systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without burning the materials, such as a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of e-cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and aerosolizable materials, and articles comprising aerosolizable materials and configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol delivery systems.

[0087] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol-generating materials (or their components) that make up the aerosol supply system are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0088] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0089] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0090] 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.

[0091] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of one or more aerosol-generating materials, each of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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, an electrical power source.

[0095] 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.

[0096] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, packaging material, a filter, a suction nozzle, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0099] The active substances used herein may be physiologically active materials, which are materials intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. Active substances may be selected from, for example, dietary supplements, nootropics, psychostimulants, or other technical / electronic devices capable of inducing a physiological response, such as digital medicines or vagus nerve stimulation (VGS). Active substances may be naturally occurring or obtained by synthesis. Active substances may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or their components, derivatives, or combinations. Active substances may also include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another plant substance. In one embodiment, the active substance is a legally permissible recreational drug.

[0100] In some embodiments, the active substance includes nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance includes caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0101] As described herein, the active substance may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

[0102] As described herein, the active substance may include or be derived from one or more plant substances, their components, derivatives, or extracts. As used herein, the term “plant substance” includes, but is not limited to, any material derived from a plant, including extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, exoskeletons, shells, etc. Alternatively, the material may include naturally occurring active compounds in plant substances obtained by synthesis. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, flakes, strips, or sheets. Examples of plant-based substances include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay leaf, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, and lavender. Dar, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, shiso, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damiana, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, calvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof.The mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: Mentha arventis, Mentha cv, Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata cv, Mentha piperita cv, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata cv, and Mentha suaveolens.

[0103] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant substances, or their components, derivatives, or extracts, the plant substance being tobacco.

[0104] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant substances, or their components, derivatives, or extracts, the plant substances being selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, and hemp.

[0105] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant substances or their components, derivatives, or extracts, the plant substances being selected from rooibos and fennel.

[0106] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes a flavoring agent.

[0107] As used herein, the terms “flavoring agents” and “flavorings” refer to materials that may be used to create a desired taste, aroma, or other somatosensory effect in products intended for adult consumers, where permitted by local regulations.These are naturally derived flavorings, plant substances, plant substance extracts, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, anise, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berries, red berries, cranberries, peaches, apples, oranges, mangoes, clementines, lemons, limes, tropical fruits). Caramel fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel nut, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang Mint, sage, fennel, wasabi, pimento, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, peppermint oil from any of the Mentha species, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay leaf, mate, orange peel, rose, tea such as green or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, shiso, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, mace It may contain other additives such as joram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, calvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), as well as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant-based substances, or breath fresheners.They may be imitations, synthetics, or natural raw materials, or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, such as liquids like oils, solids like powders, or gases.

[0108] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavor components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus, and / or red berry. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavor components extracted from cannabis.

[0109] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent may include a sensory stimulant, which is intended to achieve somatosensory effects that are normally chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve) in addition to, or instead of, the olfactory or gustatory nerves, and may include agents that produce a heating effect, a cooling effect, a tingling effect, or a numbing effect. A suitable heating agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and a suitable cooling agent may be, but is not limited to, eucalyptol or WS-3.

[0110] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0111] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may also be present. Optionally, a solvent such as water may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant-based materials. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0112] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating film, or may be in the form of an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may also be present. The aerosol-generating film may not contain substantially any plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco-free.

[0113] 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.

[0114] The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may include a continuous sheet of material, or may be a continuous sheet of material.

[0115] The aerosol-generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol-generating film may include one or more individual parts or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as dots, stripes, or lines, which can be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0116] 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.

[0117] The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder such as a gelling agent with a solvent such as water, an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more other components such as one or more substances to be delivered to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least a portion of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film.

[0118] The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60% by weight, 70% by weight, 80% by weight, 85% by weight, or 90% by weight of the solvent.

[0119] 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.

[0120] The aerosol-forming agent material may contain one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming agent material may contain one or more of the following: glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, mesoerythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of diacetins, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyline, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0121] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of the following: pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0122] The material may be present on or within a support to form a substrate. The support may be, for example, paper, cardboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy, or may comprise these materials.

[0123] An aerosol supply device can receive an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, “article” refers to a component containing or being contained with an aerosol-generating material at the time of use, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally, other components at the time of use. The user can 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] Consumables are articles containing or consisting of aerosol-generating material, some or all of which are intended to be consumed during use by the user. Consumables may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which generates heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol. The heater may comprise a conductor that can be heated by an electric current passing through it.

[0126] A non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a modular assembly that includes both a reusable aerosol supply device and replaceable aerosol products. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may comprise a power source and a controller (or control circuit). The power source may comprise a power source such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other embodiments, the aerosol product may comprise the aerosol generating component partially or entirely.

[0127] 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 a first surface 306, and a perspective view of a portion of the second surface 307 is shown in Figure 4.

[0128] Article 300 comprises an aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material 302 when the aerosol supply system 100 is in operation, as will be described in detail below.

[0129] The aerosol supply system 100 may be elongated and extend along its longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply system 100 has a proximal end 102 that is closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when used by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply system 100, and a distal end 104 that is furthest from the user when used.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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, the article receiving portion 206 (sometimes called the device chamber 206) 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 comprises a receptacle base 210 and a receptacle periphery 212. The configuration of the receptacle 208 may vary depending on the configuration of article 300.

[0132] 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 can 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 activated by another user action, such as suction by a user drawing air through the system.

[0133] The aerosol supply device 200 has an opening 214 at its proximal end that leads to a device chamber 206. The opening 214 is located at one end, and an article 300 can be inserted through the opening 214. In embodiments, the article 300 can be fully or partially inserted into the device 200. The configuration of the device 200 may vary; for example, the opening may be located on the longitudinal side wall of the device 200 and / or may be closed by another mechanism of the device 200 during use. In this configuration, the article 300 defines a mouthpiece 310 at its proximal end 308. In other embodiments, the device 200 defines a mouthpiece. The user places their mouth over the mouthpiece during use.

[0134] 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, and therefore the longitudinal axis may be considered the receiving axis of device 200. Article 300 may similarly have a longitudinal axis along which it is inserted into the device, and this axis may be considered the insertion axis.

[0135] 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, comprising a processor and memory.

[0136] 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.

[0137] The aerosol generator 304 forms part of the article 300. The aerosol generator 304 includes a heating configuration 312 configured to generate an aerosol by heating at least one of an aerosol-generating material 302, such as a film and a gel. The aerosol-generating material may be called an aerosolizable material.

[0138] The heating configuration 312 is a resistance heating device comprising one or more heating elements. In the embodiment, the heating element or each heating element is a resistance heating element, as will be described in detail below. In such a configuration, the heating system 110 comprises a resistance heating generator comprising components for heating the heating configuration 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 comprises a resistance material configured to generate heat when a suitable current passes through the resistance heating element, and the heating configuration 312 comprises electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistance material. By providing the resistance heating configuration 312, a compact configuration is possible. Resistance heating provides an efficient configuration.

[0139] 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.

[0140] In some exemplary embodiments, an aerosol supply system comprises two main components: a control section that forms reusable parts and a consumables section that forms replaceable or disposable parts, which may be called replaceable or disposable articles or cartridges. 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, and the control section may be reused with different consumables.

[0141] The illustrated aerosol supply system 100 is provided merely as an example and is highly schematic. Different aerosol generating devices and other devices may be used in exemplary embodiments of the principle described herein. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, air is drawn in through an air inlet in a control section, passes through an interface, and exits from a consumable part.

[0142] 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 (electrical) contact. The aerosol supply device 200 includes an electrical connector 230 configured to supply power to a heating configuration 321, for example, to heat the aerosol generating material of article 300, in order to supply power to an article received by an article receiving portion. 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.

[0143] The configuration of article 300 may vary. Article 300 comprises a body 324, which is hollow. The body 324 defines a flow path 326 (see Figure 6) through article 300. The flow path 326 extends between an air inlet 314 and an aerosol outlet 318. The flow path 326 is defined by an internal space within the article through which air and / or aerosols can flow. The flow path 326 is defined within the body 324. An aerosol generator or each aerosol generator 304 borders the flow path 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the flow path 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed in the internal space. In the embodiment, the internal space comprises two or more chambers.

[0144] The air inlet 314 includes an opening 315. The opening 315 is formed in the main body 324. In embodiments, the opening is formed in another component of the article 300, for example, an aerosol generator 304 or another wall mechanism. The aerosol outlet 318 includes an outlet opening 317. The outlet opening 317 is formed in the main body 324. In embodiments, the outlet opening 317 is formed in another component of the article 300, for example, an aerosol generator 304 or another wall mechanism.

[0145] As shown in Figure 6, article 300 comprises two aerosol generators 304 that form an aerosol generator arrangement. The number of aerosol generators 304 may vary. Each aerosol generator 304 comprises an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to a channel 326. In embodiments, article 300 comprises 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, article 300 has a flat configuration. That is, in this case, the exterior of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and width, where the length is greater than or equal to the width and the width is greater than the depth. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0148] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of article 300, in which the aerosol generator 304 is shown inverted from its assembled orientation and spaced apart from the other components. Article 300 comprises a first aerosol generator 302, a body 324, and a second aerosol generator 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 comprises body layers. The body may comprise multiple body layers. The body layers are formed in a stacked state and may be arranged to define the mechanism of the article 300, such as an air inlet 314 and an aerosol outlet 318.

[0149] 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.

[0150] The aerosol generator 304 is schematically shown in cross-section in Figure 7. The aerosol generator 304 is an embodiment of the aerosol generator 304 of the aerosol supply system 100 described above.

[0151] The aerosol generator 304 comprises an aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer is also known as an aerosolizable layer. More generally, the aerosol generator 304 can be said to comprise a heating configuration (such as a resistance heating layer 340) and an aerosol generating material (such as the aerosol generating layer 330). The aerosol generating layer 330 comprises an aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generator 304 comprises a resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed as a conductive layer. The aerosol generating layer 330 is located on the resistance heating layer 340. The aerosol generating layer 330 is in direct contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 is in indirect contact with the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating layer 340 may comprise a coating. As will be described in detail below, the resistance heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistance heating elements 342, for example, as shown in Figures 8 and 9. Each resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 forms at least a portion of the conductive path between a pair of electrical contacts 322. Each resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 provides a conductive path for resistively heating at least a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 to generate an aerosol. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material 302 is in the form of a film or a gel.

[0152] 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.

[0153] The aerosol generator 304 comprises 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] Article 300 may comprise a laminate 354 having a resistance heating layer 340 and a support layer 350. In embodiments, the laminate 354 comprises an aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer 330 may be formed as a continuous structure or from individual parts. The individual parts may comprise one or more of dots, strips, helices, or other shapes.

[0156] In the embodiment, the aerosol generating layer 330 comprises an aerosol generating film. In the embodiment, the aerosol generating layer 330 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.

[0157] 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.

[0158] Figure 8 shows one of the resistance heating elements 342. The resistance heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistance heating elements 342. In this embodiment, the resistance heating layer 340 comprises a single resistance heating element 342.

[0159] The multiple heating elements 342 may be formed as an array 344, as shown in Figure 9. Other configurations are also possible.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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 may include die cutting. The resistance heating elements may be formed by an operation applied only to the resistance heating layer. In embodiments, the resistance heating elements may be formed by an operation applied to both the resistance heating layer and the support layer, for example, an operation that cuts into the resistance heating layer and the support layer.

[0167] At least one electrical insulating barrier 346 defines first and second types of electrical tracks 361, 366.

[0168] In some embodiments, the tracks of the resistive heating element or each resistive heating element 342 have a width in the range 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.

[0169] As shown in Figure 9, the resistance heating layer 340 may be formed into multiple resistance heating elements, collectively referred to as reference numbers 342a, 342b, 242c, 342d, and 342e. Each of the resistance heating elements 342a to 342e extends from each of the first type of electrical contacts, collectively referred to as 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 of electrical contact.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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 of different zones of the aerosol generation layer 330. For example, an 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.

[0172] In the exemplary resistance heating layer 340, a plurality of first type electrical contacts 360a to 360e, for example, positive electrical connections, and a single second type electrical contact 365, for example, a negative electrical connection, are provided. This is not essential in all embodiments. For example, a plurality of second type contacts may be provided. In the embodiment, each resistance heating element 342a to 342e comprises a corresponding first type electrical contact 360 and a corresponding second type electrical contact 365.

[0173] 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 allows for convenient power connection, but of course, many other configurations are possible, some of which will be discussed further below.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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. In use, the heating elements or each heating element may be used to provide a conductive path for resistive heating of a portion of an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The formation of the resistive heating elements or each resistive heating element may be performed before or after 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.

[0176] In operation 404, the formed resistance heating layer is positioned to be in contact with the aerosol generating layer, which incorporates an aerosol generating material. The aerosol generator 304 described above can be generated using algorithm 400.

[0177] 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, for example by spraying, painting, dispensing, or by depositing the aerosol generating material in some other way. In an exemplary embodiment of operation 404, the aerosol generating layer 330 is disposed on the resistance heating layer 340 as indicated by arrow 406.

[0178] 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. The cuts in the resistance heating layer 340 can be used to form paths for the heating elements described herein. The use of the 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.

[0179] 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 embodiments of operation 402 of method 400 described above. The aerosol generating material is then disposed on the resistance heating layer, thereby performing operation 404 described above.

[0180] 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 embodiment of operation 402 of algorithm 400 described above. The aerosol generating material is then placed on the resistance heating layer, thereby carrying out operation 404 described above.

[0181] 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 "foil stamping" technique can be used, in which the heating element is fabricated from a resistance heating layer and then assembled / bonded onto a support. Even further techniques, such as die cutting, can also be used. Furthermore, two or more techniques can be combined (for example, conductivity can be added to the connection trace by adding 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 embodiments of the principles described herein.

[0182] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an operating method or algorithm, collectively referred to as reference number 424. The method or algorithm 424 may be carried out, for example, using one of the aerosol generators described herein. The method or algorithm 424 is initiated when a command to activate heating is received in an instance of operation 426. In response to the command to activate heating, a determination is made as to whether a heating element is available (operation 428). Multiple heating elements may be provided, as discussed above. Operation 428 may also include determining which heating element has been used and / or whether the corresponding available aerosol-generating material has been exhausted.

[0183] If heating elements are available, the algorithm proceeds to operation 430, where the available heating elements are used. As discussed above, heating elements may be individually controllable, for example, by supplying 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 perform algorithm 424 need to be replaced.

[0184] 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. The cuts in the conductive layer 340 form a heating element as described herein.

[0185] In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, the cut path is a straight path extending along the length of the conductive layer 120.

[0186] Figure 17 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 comprises a plurality of resistance heating elements 342, each resistance heating element 342 being a linear heating element having a conductive path extending along the length of the resistance heating layer 340. Each resistance heating element 342 extends from one of the first type of electrical contacts 360, e.g., a positive electrical connection, to one of the second type of electrical contacts 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 arrangements where there is no common second type of electrical contact, as in some other embodiments, each heating element instead has separate first and second type electrical contacts.

[0187] 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 comprises 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. While linear paths are provided, an increase in electrical resistance may be provided by providing notched paths that function as helical paths. Note that paths in any other embodiments described herein can also be notched.

[0188] Figure 19 shows the distal end of article 300. As shown, the body 324 comprises a plurality of body layers 325. The body layers 325 are arranged in a stacked state. 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 mechanism of article 300. In this embodiment, at least one body layer has a gap that defines an air inlet 315. The gap defines an opening 314.

[0189] 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 providing positive electrical connections to, for example, each of a plurality of heating elements 342, and a single second type of electrical contact 365 providing a common negative electrical connection to, for example, the plurality of 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.

[0190] The resistive heating element 342 is located inside the resistive heating layer 340. The inside defines the first surface 306 of the aerosol generator 304, as shown in Figure 3. The heater contact 322 is located on the second surface 307 of the resistive heating layer 340. The second surface 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.

[0191] The support layer 350 is located between the inner portion and the outer portion of the resistance heating layer 340.

[0192] 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.

[0193] 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.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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 electric track 361 and the second type of electric track 366 are defined on the second surface of the resistance heating layer 340. Parts of the first type of electric track 361 and the second type of electric track 366 extend to the first surface of the resistance heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistance heating element extends from the fold 370. Other configurations are also conceivable.

[0196] 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 comprises multiple heater contacts 322, including multiple first type heater contacts 360 and one of second type heater contacts 365. Article 300 comprises another set of heater contacts 322 on the opposite side of article 300 corresponding to the second aerosol generator 304.

[0197] 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.

[0198] 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 includes first and second connector electrical contacts 230a and 230b.

[0199] 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 a connector device configured to supply power to the connector electrical contacts 230a and 230b. The aerosol supply device 200 may operate, for example, in the manner described above.

[0200] 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.

[0201] The method or algorithm 440 begins with operation 442 in which a resistive heating layer is formed on at least one resistive heating element, the heating element or each heating element providing 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.

[0202] In operation 442, the aerosol-generating material is applied and / or formed on the resistance heating layer.

[0203] 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.

[0204] In operation 446, at least one first type of heater 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 heater electrical contact is provided on the resistance heating layer. The method of formation may be any of the methods described above.

[0205] In the embodiment, the first and second types of heater electrical contacts are formed along or near a single edge of the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the first and second types of heater electrical contacts are formed along or near different edges of the resistance heating layer.

[0206] In the embodiment, a first type of heater 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 heater 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.

[0207] In operation 450, the resistance heating layer is folded. In the embodiment, the support layer is folded together with the resistance heating layer. In the embodiment, the resistance heating layer is folded such that the first and second types of heater electrical contacts are adjacent to each other, as will be discussed in detail below.

[0208] Figures 23 to 25 show embodiments of the aerosol generator 304 formed according to algorithm 440.

[0209] 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 a blank for forming the aerosol generator 304. The blank in the embodiment defines fold lines along which folds are made during the formation of the aerosol generator. The aerosol generator 304 blank comprises a resistance heating layer 340 and a support layer 350. The resistance heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define a panel defined by the fold lines.

[0210] As shown in Figure 23, the resistance heating layer 340 is formed on multiple heating elements 192, but the number may vary, or there may be only one. Multiple first type heater electrical contacts 360 (e.g., positive electrical contacts) are provided along the first edge of the conductive layer (one heater electrical contact is shown for each heating element). A single second type heater electrical contact 365 is provided along the second edge of the resistance heating layer 340. In this embodiment, the heater electrical contacts are spaced apart from the edge. As discussed above, each of the multiple heating elements extends from the first type heater electrical contact to the second type heater electrical contact.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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 with heating elements 342 is defined. A second panel 376 with a plurality of first type electrical contacts 360 is formed. A third panel 377 with 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.

[0213] When inserting article 300 into the article receiving portion of device 200, it is important to ensure that article 300 is correctly positioned so that article electrical contacts, such as article electrical contacts 322, 360, 365 (synonymous with heater electrical contacts), engage with the corresponding connector electrical contacts of device 200, such as connector electrical contacts 232, 230a, 230b. For example, each article electrical contact must make contact with the corresponding connector electrical contact in a consistent and repeatable manner. This can be difficult to achieve, especially considering that article 300 may be repeatedly inserted into the receiving portion of device 200, and that different articles may be used after each article has been used up in sequence.

[0214] Figure 26 shows an embodiment of the aerosol supply system 100 in which, when the article 300 is received in the article receiving portion 206, the connector electrical contacts 232 are configured to engage with the article 300 to resist removal of the article from the article receiving portion 206. As shown in Figure 28, once the article 300 is (fully) inserted into the article receiving portion 206, the connector electrical contacts 232 take a position (hereinafter referred to as the "second position") in which they contact the article electrical contacts 322 so that the user will experience (at least some) resistance when pulling the article 300 in an attempt to remove it from the article receiving portion 206, but this resistance must be overcome to remove the article 300 from the article receiving portion. This resistance helps to hold the article 300 in the article receiving portion 206 when the user moves the aerosol supply system 100 during use, ensuring that the engagement between the connector electrical contacts 232 and the article electrical contacts 322 persists. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent accidental removal of the article 300 from the aerosol supply device 200.

[0215] The article electrical contact 322 may provide an electrical connection to an aerosol generator 304 (of article 300), which may include a heating configuration (not visible in this figure). The heating configuration may include one or more heating elements, such as resistance heating elements, as described in the various embodiments described above.

[0216] Figure 26 shows an arrangement in which two connector electrical contacts 232 are configured in this way, but this technique may be equally applicable to arrangements in which only one connector electrical contact 232 is configured in this way (others may not be configured in this way), or to arrangements in which three or more connector electrical contacts 232 are configured in this way (others may not be configured in this way). Although described in the context of connector electrical contacts 232, these techniques can be similarly applied in the context of other connector electrical contacts such as connector electrical contacts 230a and 230b.

[0217] To achieve this, each connector electrical contact 232 is movable between a first position and a second position, in which position the connector electrical contact 232 extends from the first position and is configured to engage, i.e., contact, the article electrical contact 322 of the article 300 to be received in the article receiving portion 206. The first position is retracted from the second position so that the connector electrical contact 232 is positioned to allow insertion of the article 300 into the article receiving portion 206 when it is in the first position. When moving between the first and second positions, all of each connector electrical contact 232 may translate and / or rotate. In other embodiments, a portion of each connector electrical contact 232 may move between a first position and a second position, for example, a portion of the connector electrical contact 232 having a surface configured to engage (i.e., contact) with an article 300 inserted into and received by the article receiving portion 206 may move between the first and second positions, while the other portion of the connector electrical contact 232 may remain substantially stationary.

[0218] The connector electrical contact 232 may be pushed from an initial position to a first position, where it is configured to return when an article is not inserted into or being inserted into the article receiving portion 206. This initial position is shown in Figure 26, and the connector electrical contact 232 is extended from the first position, for example, fully extended. The connector electrical contact 232 may also be configured to be pushed from the initial position to the first position by first inserting an article 300 into the article receiving portion 206. This is shown in Figure 27, where the user begins to push the article 300 into the article receiving portion 206, causing the article 300 to contact the connector electrical contact 232 in the initial position, and pushing the connector electrical contact 232 from the initial position to the first position.

[0219] As the article 300 is further pushed into the article receiving portion 206, the connector electrical contact 232 may extend from a first position shown in Figure 29 to a second position shown in Figure 28, where the connector electrical contact 232 extends from the first position. The electrical contact 232 may extend (i.e., move) from the first position to the second position when the article 300 is fully inserted into the article receiving portion 206, so that the article 300 is in the correct position for the necessary engagement between any connector electrical contact 232 and the article electrical contact 322, allowing the device 200 to cause heating of the aerosol-generating material of the article 300. This movement of the electrical contact 232 from the first position to the second position when the article 300 is fully inserted may provide a feedback sensation (i.e., sensory feedback) to the user pushing the article 300 into the article receiving portion 206. For example, the user may feel a “snap” or “click” (in the form of vibration passing through the device 200) when the article 300 reaches the fully inserted position corresponding to the movement of the electrical contact 232 from a first position to a second position. This intuitively informs the user that the article 300 is fully inserted and securely held within the aerosol supply device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the movement of the electrical contact 232 in the manner described above may produce an audible sound that the user can hear. Additionally or alternatively, the device 200 may be configured to include, for example, a suitable transparent component so that the user can observe the electrical contact 232 as it has moved as described above.

[0220] When in the second position, the connector electrical contact 232 may engage with one or more corresponding engagement mechanisms 395 of the article 300 (for example, they may be molded to engage). One or more engagement mechanisms 395 may comprise one or more recesses and / or one or more projections that engage with the connector electrical contact 232 when the article 300 is received in the article receiving portion 206 and the connector electrical contact 232 is in the second position. In this configuration, the engagement between one or more engagement mechanisms 395 and the connector electrical contact 232 can resist the removal of the article 300 from the article receiving portion 206. Such engagement mechanisms 395 may be optional, and if no such engagement mechanisms 395 are present, the connector electrical contact 232 may act in the second position to resist the removal of the article 300 by frictional engagement with the article electrical contact 322. In some embodiments, engagement between the connector electrical contact 232 and the engagement mechanism 395 can occur by attempting to move the article 300 relative to the device 200. For example, an attempt to move article 300 can be resisted by the connector electrical contacts 232 contacting the edge of the engagement mechanism 395 (e.g., the edge of a recess). Thus, the recess may have an edge that is engaged by the connector electrical contacts 232.

[0221] In the embodiment, as shown in Figure 26, one or more recesses are provided by one or more openings 396 in an insulating outer layer such as a support layer 350, and one or more openings 396 expose one or more article electrical contacts 232. This arrangement, in which the openings 396 in the insulating outer layer expose one or more article electrical contacts 232, ensures that the connector electrical contacts 232 engage with the article 300 in the article receiving portion 206 in such a way that they form an electrical connection with the article electrical contacts 232 when the connector electrical contacts 232 are in a second position. The support layer 250 may comprise a plurality of sub-layers. The sub-layers may be, for example, in the form of paper or card.

[0222] Since each connector electrical contact 232 is deformable, the connector electrical contact 232 may be movable between a first position and a second position. For example, each connector electrical contact 232 may be equipped with a spring, such as a leaf spring, which can push the connector electrical contact 232 to a first position (for example, from an initial position) and bias the connector electrical contact 232 from a first position to a second position.

[0223] Additionally or alternatively, each connector electrical contact 232 may be attached to a deformable member such as a spring, or to an elastic mass body comprising an elastically deformable material such as rubber, so that each connector electrical contact 232 can be pushed to a first position (e.g., from an initial position) and biased from the first position to a second position. For example, the aerosol supply device 200 may comprise a plurality of pogo pins, each pogo pin comprising a deformable member and a connector electrical contact 232, thereby enabling the connector electrical contact 232 to translate between a first position and a second position.

[0224] In any of the embodiments described above, the second position adopted by the connector electrical contact 232, for example, shown in Figure 28, may substantially correspond to the initial position adopted by the connector electrical contact shown in Figure 26.

[0225] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 26 to 29, the connector electrical contacts 232 may comprise a first electrical contact 232 and a second connector electrical contact 232, which are arranged to act on the first and second opposing surfaces of the article 300. This arrangement preferably ensures that the article 300 is held horizontally within the article receiving portion 206 and can provide a more uniform force for holding the article 300 within the article receiving portion 206.

[0226] Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one of the connector electrical contacts 232 includes a leaf spring (for example, as shown in Figures 26 to 29), the leaf spring having an angled portion that engages with the article 300 when inserted into the article receiving portion 206. The article 300 is inserted along the receiving shaft, and the angle between the receiving shaft and the angled portion is 45° or less, for example 35° or less, for example 30° or less. This can reduce the initial contact force between the article 300 and the connector electrical contact 232, thereby making it easier for the user to insert the article 300 into the article receiving portion 206.

[0227] Figures 29 and 30 show schematic diagrams of a portion of an aerosol supply device 200, focusing on its connector 230, according to another embodiment. The device 200 may comprise one or more actuators 233 configured to move the connector electrical contacts 232 between a first position and a second position, as shown in Figures 29 and 30. One or more actuators 233 may be controlled by a controller of the device 200, such as a control circuit 220. The controller may be configured to move one or more actuators 233 of the aerosol supply device 200 to a first position (e.g., from an initial position) in response to the start of insertion of an article detected by a first article detection sensor 299, which is configured to detect the start of insertion of an article 300 into the article receiving portion 206, or additionally or alternatively, in response to a predetermined operation of one or more control elements 298 of the aerosol supply device 200 by a user, as shown in Figure 29.

[0228] The controller may also be configured to move one or more actuators 233 of the aerosol supply device 200 from a first position shown in Figure 29 to a second position shown in Figure 30, in response to the completion of insertion of an article detected by a second article detection sensor 297 configured to detect the complete insertion of an article 300 into the article receiving portion 206 (so that the device 200 is in the correct position for the necessary engagement between any connector electrical contact 232 and the article electrical contact 322, allowing the device 200 to cause heating of the aerosol-generating material of the article 300). Additionally or alternatively, the connector electrical contact 232 may be moved in response to a predetermined operation of one or more control elements 298 of the aerosol supply device 200 by the user.

[0229] The above arrangement, which uses actuator 233 to move the connector electrical contacts 232, preferably allows the connector electrical contacts 232 to be moved to the first position shown in Figure 29, or to already be in the first position, thereby allowing the article 300 to be inserted more easily. Also, the connector electrical contacts 232 can be pushed back to the first position if necessary, so that the article 300 can be removed more easily if necessary. This arrangement may also allow selective control of the engagement between the connector electrical contacts 232 and the article contacts.

[0230] The aerosol supply device 200 may also include a mechanical component 296, which may include a button, or similarly a switch or slider. The mechanical component 296 may be configured to be operated by the user to move the connector electrical contact 232 between a second position and a first position. For example, the mechanical component 296 may be configured to be operated by the user to move the connector electrical contact 232 from an initial position to a first position, and to be operated by the user to move the connector electrical contact 232 from a first position to a second position. The mechanical component 296 can act directly on the connector electrical contact 232. In other embodiments, at least one intermediate member may be positioned between the mechanical component 296 and the connector electrical contact 233, and the movement of the mechanical component may be configured to drive the movement of the connector electrical contact 232.

[0231] In embodiments of the present invention, the heating configuration may be part of article 300, or part of an aerosol generator that forms part of article 300.

[0232] In some embodiments of the aerosol generators and different arrangements of articles described above, the aerosol-generating material is formed in a configuration other than as an aerosol-generating layer. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of an aerosol-generating segment. An aerosol-generating segment generally comprises a solid material. Such a solid material may be shredded tobacco. For example, an aerosol-generating material arranged as an aerosol-generating segment may comprise a plurality of individual aerosol-generating material pieces. The aerosol-generating material may also comprise individual tobacco material pieces. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of strips, beads, or pellets. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment is a plug of material.

[0233] In the embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment includes a material body. The aerosol-generating material is non-liquid. In such embodiments, the material body comprises 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.

[0234] 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.

[0235] In any of the embodiments described above, heating the article provides a relatively constant release of volatile compounds into an inhalable medium. In the embodiments described above, the aerosol-generating segment is a plug of material. The article may comprise a mouthpiece end section. A tubular element may be positioned between the aerosol-generating material and the mouthpiece end section. The article may comprise 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.

[0236] 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.

[0237] 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% to 20% by weight of the tobacco material, or in amounts of 1% to 10% by weight of the composition. In some embodiments, filler components are absent. In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco material contains an aerosol-forming agent material. In this context, “aerosol-forming agent material” is an agent that promotes 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 flavoring agents from the aerosol-forming material. In general, any suitable aerosol-forming agent material or agent, including those described herein, may be included in the aerosol-forming material of the present invention.

[0238] Paper-reconstructed tobacco refers to tobacco material formed by a process in which tobacco raw materials are extracted with a solvent to obtain an extract of soluble substances and a residue containing fibrous material, and then the extract (usually after concentration and optionally after further processing) is recombined with fibrous material from the residue (usually after purification of the fibrous material and optionally with the addition of some non-tobacco fibers) by depositing the extract onto the fibrous material. The recombination process is similar to the process of making paper.

[0239] 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. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. During use, an article receiving portion is configured to receive an article comprising an aerosol generating material and a heating configuration having one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material, An electrical connector for supplying power to an article received by the article receiving portion, comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging with a plurality of corresponding heater electrical contacts of the article, An aerosol supply device in which at least one of the plurality of connector electrical contacts is configured to engage with the article received in the article receiving portion so as to resist removal of the article from the article receiving portion.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is configured to move between a first position and a second position, and in the second position, the at least one connector electrical contact is configured to engage with an article received in the article receiving portion.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 2, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is arranged to contact the article when the article is inserted into the article receiving portion and to be moved by the article.

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is configured to move from a first position to a second position as a result of the complete insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

5. The aerosol supply device according to claim 2, 3, or 4, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is configured to move from an initial position to a first position as a result of the initial insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is biased to move from the first position to the second position.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, comprising at least one actuator configured to move the at least one connector electrical contact between the first position and the second position.

8. The aerosol supply device according to claim 7, further comprising a controller configured to control the movement of the at least one connector electrical contact between the first position and the second position by the at least one actuator.

9. The aerosol supply device according to claim 8, further comprising an article detection sensor configured to detect the insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

10. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9, wherein the controller is configured to move the at least one actuator from the initial position to the first position in response to the article detection sensor detecting the start of insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the controller is configured to move the at least one actuator from a first position to a second position in response to the article detection sensor detecting the complete insertion of an article into the article receiving portion.

12. An aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 7 to 11, comprising one or more control elements configured to be operated by a user.

13. The aerosol supply device according to claim 12, wherein the controller is configured to move the at least one actuator from an initial position to the first position in response to a predetermined operation of one or more control elements by a user.

14. The aerosol supply device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the controller is configured to move the at least one actuator from a first position to a second position in response to a predetermined operation of one or more control elements by a user.

15. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is deformable.

16. The aerosol supply device according to claim 15, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact comprises at least one spring.

17. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is moved between a first position and a second position by the user operating a mechanical component of the aerosol supply device that drives the movement of the at least one connector electrical contact.

18. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is attached to at least one deformable member.

19. The aerosol supply device according to claim 18, wherein the at least one deformable member comprises at least one spring.

20. The aerosol dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is configured to provide sensory feedback to the user of the device when the at least one connector electrical contact engages with the article.

21. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the at least one connector electrical contact is molded to engage with at least one corresponding engagement mechanism of the article received in the article receiving portion in order to resist removal of the article from the article receiving portion.

22. Aerosol generating materials and A heating configuration comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating configuration comprises a plurality of article electrical contacts for receiving power to the one or more heating elements, The aerosol supply device is configured to receive an article, and comprises one or more engagement mechanisms configured to engage with one or more connector electrical contacts of the article, such that the multiple connector electrical contacts engage with the multiple article electrical contacts, An article for an aerosol supply device, wherein the one or more engagement mechanisms are configured such that, when the article is received by the aerosol supply device, removal of the article from the aerosol supply device is resisted by the engagement of the one or more engagement mechanisms with the one or more connector electrical contacts of the aerosol supply device.

23. The article according to claim 22, wherein the at least one engagement mechanism comprises at least one recess.

24. The article according to claim 22, wherein the article comprises an insulating outer layer, the insulating outer layer comprises at least one opening for exposing at least one electrical contact of the article, and the at least one opening forms at least one recess.

25. The article according to claim 22, 23, or 24, wherein the at least one engagement mechanism comprises at least one projection.

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