Non-combustible aerosol delivery systems, filter units, and assemblies

Abstract

A non-combustible aerosol delivery system (100) for filtering exhaled breath is provided, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system (100) comprising a power source (110), a mouthpiece (120), and a removable filter unit (130), wherein in a first configuration, the filter unit (130) is present and engages with the non-combustible aerosol delivery system (100) to provide an inhalation airflow passageway configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system (100) to a user during inhalation, and an exhalation airflow passageway configured to transport breath from a user to the filter unit (130) during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system (100), and in a second configuration, the filter unit (130) is not engaged with the non-combustible aerosol delivery system (100).

Description

Background of the disclosure

[0001] [Field] The present disclosure relates to a non-combustible aerosol delivery system, a filter unit that engages the non-combustible aerosol delivery system, and an assembly that includes the filter unit and a unit that contains a vapor-forming material.

[0002] The "Background" description provided herein is intended to provide a general overview of the context of the present disclosure. To the extent described in this Background section, the work of the inventors cited herein, as well as aspects of this description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are not admitted, expressly or impliedly, as prior art to the present disclosure.

[0003] Non-combustion aerosol delivery systems are known, including systems such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Some such systems contain a reservoir of liquid feedstock, typically containing a formulation including an active ingredient such as nicotine, from which an aerosol is generated, for example by vaporization. The aerosol source for the aerosol delivery device then comprises an aerosol generating component, for example a heater with a heating element arranged to receive the liquid feedstock from the reservoir by wick / capillary action. Other feedstocks, such as plant-derived materials or gels containing active ingredients and / or flavorings, may similarly be heated to create an aerosol. Thus, more generally, an e-cigarette may be considered to comprise or receive a content that is thermally vaporized. In other systems, the aerosol may be provided from a material that may include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavorings, one or more aerosol precursor materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0004] Power is provided to the heating element to vaporize a portion of the aerosolizable material in the vicinity of the heating element while or before the user inhales from the device in order to generate an aerosol for the user to inhale. Such devices typically include one or more air inlet holes located away from the mouthpiece end of the system. When the user inhales from a mouthpiece connected to the mouthpiece end of the system, air is drawn through the inlet holes and passes through the aerosol generating component. There is a flow path connecting the aerosol generating component and the mouthpiece opening, such that the air drawn through the aerosol source continues to move along this flow path to the mouthpiece opening, carrying with it a portion of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component. The aerosol-laden air exits the aerosol delivery device through the mouthpiece opening and is inhaled by the user.

[0005] In conventional systems, the smoking process is completed at this aerosol delivery stage.As of 2019, there were an estimated 3.6 million e-cigarette users in the UK alone (7.1% of the population).

[0006] Disclosed herein are improvements to this smoking process. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, comprising: Power supply, A mouthpiece, A removable filter unit, In a first configuration, the filter unit is present and engaged with the non-combustible aerosol delivery system, an inhalation airflow passageway configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system to a user during inhalation; an exhalation airflow passage configured to transport breath from a user to the filter unit during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; In a second configuration, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system is provided, in which the filter unit is not engaged with the non-combustion aerosol delivery system. In a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a mouthpiece for use in a non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, the mouthpiece, in a first configuration, being in fluid communication with a filter of the non-combustible aerosol delivery system in use, an inhalation airflow passage configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system through the mouthpiece to a user during inhalation; an exhalation airflow passage configured to transport breath from a user through the mouthpiece to the filter unit during exhalation; A mouthpiece is provided, where, in use, in a second configuration, the mouthpiece is not in fluid communication with a filter of the non-combustible aerosol delivery system. The system disclosed herein allows a user to inhale an aerosol from an aerosol delivery system and then exhale through the system. In this disclosure, the system may process the exhaled material in a filter unit by filtering it. The system also allows for the delivery of an aerosol to a user without the use of a filter unit.

[0008] In this way, a user can use the system to inhale aerosols in locations where it is undesirable to expel aerosols into the environment (which may be for a variety of reasons). When in such an environment or location, the user may engage the filter unit in the system and exhale into the system, which is then processed by the filter unit. Alternatively, when the user is in a location where it is undesirable to expel aerosols into the environment, the user may not need to engage the filter unit and may use the system in a more conventional manner. In this way, the system disclosed herein provides for versatile use of the system in a variety of locations / environments.

[0009] In environments where exhalation of aerosols is undesirable, during exhalation the user can exhale into the system rather than into the environment. Such a system can thus act as a personal exhaled air filter.

[0010] The system may advantageously provide a filter unit that may be removable and replaceable from the system according to the user's usage pattern. When the filter unit is exhausted, it can be easily replaced with another filter unit. In this way, the user can discard, for example, the filter as a consumable item, rather than the system as a whole, which saves resources of the system and is therefore cheaper for the user over the life of the system.

[0011] In one example, in a first configuration, the filter unit is disposed between the mouthpiece of the non-combustible aerosol delivery system and the power source. This can be advantageous in allowing for easy removal of the filter unit from the body of the system. Furthermore, this can allow for some more individualized designs. Furthermore, this configuration results in a shorter path for the exhaled material to travel than if the filter were deeper in the system. In this way, the exhaled material does not have to travel deep into the system (which can lead to condensation of the exhaled material on system components) but rather is filtered soon after entering the system.

[0012] In some examples, the system further comprises a unit containing the vapor forming material. The unit can be more easily removed from and replaced in the system than the vapor forming material alone. The user interacts with the unit and not with the vapor forming material, which is an easier and cleaner process. As a result, this therefore improves the user experience of the system.

[0013] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, comprising: Power supply, A mouthpiece, A filter unit; a unit containing a steam forming material; an inhalation airflow passageway configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system to a user during inhalation; an exhalation airflow passageway configured to transport breath from a user to the filter unit during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; A non-combustion aerosol delivery system is provided, in which the filter unit and the unit containing the vapor forming material together form a single assembly that is removable from the non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0014] Such a configuration allows the user to inhale the aerosol from the aerosol delivery system and then exhale through the system, as in the first embodiment. In the present disclosure, the system may process the exhale in a filter unit by filtering it. The system also allows the delivery of aerosol to the user without using a filter unit. In this way, the user can use the system to inhale the aerosol in places where exhale of the aerosol into the environment is not desired (this may be for a variety of reasons).

[0015] Furthermore, in such configurations using a single assembly, the manufacturer may be able to control the amount of vapor-forming material provided per filter unit and per filter (or element providing the filtering function of the filter unit) within the filter unit, so that the amount of vapor-forming material will be sufficient to provide an amount of vapor that would be sufficient to saturate or otherwise use up the filter in most usage patterns. In this way, the lifespan of the vapor-forming material and the filter can be matched or balanced, so that when the vapor-forming material is used up and the filter is also used up, the single assembly can be removed and replaced with a new single assembly. This improves the ease of use of the device and therefore the user experience of the system. In some instances, the vapor forming material comprises a plant material, which, within reasonable constraints, is capable of providing an aerosol for inhalation and thus may be used in such a system, hi some instances, the vapor forming material is a liquid.

[0016] In one example herein, the inhalation airflow path and the exhalation airflow path are completely separate from each other. In this way, the system prevents re-aspiration of any exhalation in subsequent puffs. Each inhalation is a new inhalation, and therefore no unintended material is included. This prevents re-aspiration of condensed components from the exhalation. This in turn allows the system greater control over the components inhaled by the user. This therefore improves the user experience of the system.

[0017] In some examples, the mouthpiece forms both a portion of the inhalation airflow passage and a portion of the exhalation airflow passage and is configured to move between an inhalation position and an exhalation position, where in the inhalation position the mouthpiece is in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passage and not in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhalation airflow passage, and where in the exhalation position the mouthpiece is not in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passage and is in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhalation airflow passage. Advantageously, by reusing a portion of the system as both the inhalation airflow passage and the exhalation airflow passage, this allows the system to be more compact and therefore can be provided in a more ergonomic configuration. This may result in an improved user experience of the system.

[0018] In some instances, the mouthpiece is hinged to rotate between the inhalation and exhalation positions. The use of hinges may allow for rotation of the mouthpiece, either by hand or by automatic triggering. Hinges are an option to achieve movement within the system when some of the inhalation and exhalation airflow paths are the same. The use of hinges allows the system to use space for system components that may not otherwise be used. In this way, hinges may allow the system to be designed in more ways, which may result in a more compact design. This may allow for more ergonomic configurations. This may ultimately improve the user experience of the system.

[0019] In some examples, the mouthpiece is rotatable to move between the inhalation and exhalation positions. The rotation of the mouthpiece may be performed by hand or by an automatic trigger. The rotating mouthpiece is an option to achieve movement in the system when some of the airflow paths for inhalation and exhalation are the same. The use of a rotating mouthpiece allows the system to use space for system components that may not otherwise be used. In this way, the rotating mouthpiece may allow the system to be designed in more ways, which may result in a more compact design. This may allow for more ergonomic configurations. This may ultimately improve the user experience of the system.

[0020] In one example, the mouthpiece has an inlet port in the inhalation position that is in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passage and not in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhalation airflow passage, and an outlet port in the exhalation position that is not in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passage and is in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhalation airflow passage. This configuration of the inlet port in the inhalation position and the outlet port in the exhalation position is an option to achieve separation between the inhalation airflow passage and the exhalation airflow passage. This configuration prevents any exhaled material from being re-aspirated in the following puff due to the separation of the two airflow passages. Each puff is a new puff, so there is no risk of unintended material being included. This therefore improves the user experience with the system.

[0021] In some instances, the inlet and outlet ports are the same. Reusing elements in a system is an option to reduce the number of components in the system. In this way, there may be fewer components that can malfunction, and as a result, the system may have a longer lifespan.

[0022] In some instances, the inlet and outlet ports are separate from each other. By ensuring that the entire inhalation airflow passage is separate from the exhalation airflow passage, it is possible to prevent exhaled material from condensing on any part of the inhalation airflow passage. In this way, re-aspiration of condensed components from exhaled material is prevented. This ultimately allows the system greater control over the components inhaled by the user.

[0023] In one example, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system further comprises a diverter assembly, the diverter assembly comprising a multi-flap valve, the flaps of the multi-flap valve having a thickness of 0.7 mm or less. In an example, the flaps of the multi-flap valve have a thickness of 0.5 mm or less. In an example, the flaps of the multi-flap valve have a thickness of 0.3 mm or less. In another example, the flaps of the multi-flap valve have a thickness of 0.1 mm or less. The multi-flap valve can be a system having at least two flaps, one that moves to allow air movement for aspiration and exhalation shutoff, and one that moves to allow air movement for exhalation and aspiration shutoff.

[0024] In one example, the filter unit contains at least one filter. The filter unit is arranged to remove aerosol droplets from the vapor. In particular, filters including glass fiber, polypropylene, and combinations thereof, which are effective in capturing exhaled material, may be used. A balance is to be struck between the filtering provided by the filter used in the system (capturing exhaled material) and the pressure drop experienced by the user during exhalation. The embodiments proposed herein provide a balanced system for capturing exhaled material while at the same time providing a smooth inhalation and exhalation action for the user. When droplets, materials, or particles come into contact with the filter fibers, they are collected and do not reenter the vapor, thus being an effective filter.

[0025] In some examples, the filter unit further comprises a separator for separating the aerosol droplets from the vapor. The separator is the preferred component for removing the aerosol droplets from the vapor because it provides adequate removal while at the same time adequately impacting the pressure during exhalation for the user.

[0026] In one example, the filter unit comprises at least one deodorizing filter, which advantageously allows for the removal of undesirable odors from the exhaled vapor, which may therefore improve the user experience of the system. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system. In one example, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system uses a combination of multiple aerosol generating materials, one or more of which may be heated, to generate the aerosol. The use of multiple aerosol generating materials allows the system to provide a variety of metered doses of aerosol to the user. Greater control over the available options allows the user to control the generated aerosol to tailor aerosol options to the user's preferences. In this way, the user experience of the system is improved.

[0027] In a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a filter unit configured to engage a non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, the aerosol delivery system comprising: Power supply, A mouthpiece; In a first configuration, the filter unit is engaged with the non-combustible aerosol delivery system to an inhalation airflow passageway configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system to a user during inhalation; an exhalation airflow passage configured to transport breath from a user to the filter unit during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; In a second configuration, a filter unit is provided, wherein the filter unit does not engage the non-combustible aerosol delivery system. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is as defined in any one of the examples above.

[0028] In a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an assembly comprising a filter unit and a unit containing a vapor forming material, the assembly being configured to engage as a single assembly with a non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system comprising: Power supply, A mouthpiece, an inhalation airflow passageway configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system to a user during inhalation; and an exhalation airflow passage configured to transport breath from a user to the filter unit during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system.

[0029] In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is as defined in any one of the examples above.

[0030] Further aspects are provided according to the claims.

[0031] It is to be understood that the foregoing general summary of the present disclosure and the following detailed description are exemplary of the present disclosure but are not restrictive.

[0032] The present disclosure and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Diagram 3]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Figure 7B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Figure 8] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. [Figure 9] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an example of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. Description of the embodiments

[0034] A non-combustible aerosol delivery system and a filter unit are disclosed. In the following description, some specific details are presented to provide a complete understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these specific details do not necessarily have to be adopted to implement the embodiments of the present disclosure. Conversely, where appropriate, specific details known to those skilled in the art are omitted for clarity.

[0035] As mentioned above, the present disclosure relates to non-combustion aerosol delivery, which may include electronic aerosol delivery systems or vapor delivery devices, such as e-cigarettes or nebulizers. Although the term "e-cigarette" may be used throughout the following description, this term may be used interchangeably with (electronic) aerosol / vapor delivery system. Similarly, the terms "vapor" and "aerosol" are referred to as equivalents herein.

[0036] In general, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device may be an e-cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system, although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosolizable material is not a requirement. In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device is a tobacco heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device is a hybrid system for generating aerosols using a combination of multiple aerosolizable materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosolizable materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosolizable material and a solid aerosolizable material. The solid aerosolizable material may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products. Meanwhile, in some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device generates vapor or aerosol from one or more such aerosolizable materials.

[0037] Generally, an aerosol delivery system may comprise a non-combustion aerosol delivery device and an article for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery device, although it is contemplated that an article that itself comprises a means for powering an aerosol generating component may itself form a non-combustion aerosol delivery device.

[0038] In some embodiments, the aerosolizable material may include an active material, an aerosol-forming material, and optionally one or more functional materials. The active material may include nicotine (optionally contained in tobacco or a tobacco derivative), or one or more other non-olfactory bioactive materials. A non-olfactory bioactive material is a material included in the aerosolizable material to achieve a physiological response other than olfactory detection. The aerosol-forming material may include one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate. The one or more functional materials may include one or more of a fragrance, a carrier, a pH adjuster, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant.

[0039] Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numbers designate the same or corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of a non-combustion aerosol delivery system 100. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 100 is configured to filter exhaled breath. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 100 has a power source 110, a mouthpiece 120, and a removable filter unit 130. In a first configuration, the filter unit 130 is present and engages the non-combustion aerosol delivery system 100 to provide an inhalation airflow passage A configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustion aerosol delivery system 100 to a user during inhalation, and an exhalation airflow passage B configured to transport breath from a user to the filter unit 130 during exhalation into the non-combustion aerosol delivery system 100.

[0040] 1B, the filter unit 130 is not engaged with the non-combustible aerosol delivery system 100. The filter unit 130 is shown in a side view removed from the non-combustible aerosol delivery system 100. The position in the system 100 where the filter unit 130 would be if engaged with the system 100 is shown in dotted lines. Exhaled airflow path B is shown in dotted lines since there is no longer an exhaled airflow path to the filter unit 130. As the system 100 can generate aerosol for inhalation even when the filter unit 130 is not engaged with the system 100, the inhaled airflow path A does not need to pass through the filter unit 130 and is therefore shown in solid lines.

[0041] To this end, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system 100 has an inhalation airflow passage A configured to transport vapor generated by the aerosol delivery system 100 to a user during inhalation. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system 100 has an exhalation airflow passage B configured to transport breath from a user to the filter unit 130 during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system 100. In the schematic example of Figures 1A and 1B, A and B are shown as passing in opposite directions through the mouthpiece 120.

[0042] The system 100 is arranged to pass breath from the user through the filter unit 130. The filter unit 130 is arranged to collect vapor passing through the system 100 in the user's exhaled breath. In this case, the user can optionally exhale through the system 100 when they wish not to exhale vapor. This may be particularly advantageous in areas in close proximity to others, or in areas where vapor production is not permitted or encouraged. The user can thus use the system 100 as a way to capture exhaled material and not produce visible exhaled material.

[0043] In areas where vapor production is not a problem, the user may choose to remove filter unit 130 or not engage system 100. In this manner, system 100 may provide an aerosol to the user, who may exhale into their local environment.

[0044]

[0023] Referring now to Figure 2, several schematic diagrams of a non-combustion aerosol delivery system 200 are shown. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 200 of Figure 2 includes a power source 210, a mouthpiece 220, and a filter unit 230. The system 200 of Figure 2 is shown in a first configuration, i.e., the filter unit 230 is present and engaged with the system 200. In the example shown, the filter unit 230 is disposed between the mouthpiece 220 of the system 200 and a body of the system 200 that houses the power source 210 of the system 210. The system 200 is shown in Figure 2 in a front view, a side view, and a perspective view.

[0045] Referring now to FIG. 3, a schematic diagram of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system 300 is shown. System 300 includes a power source 310, a mouthpiece 320, and a filter unit 330. System 300 also includes a unit housing a vapor-forming material 340. Unit 340 may be heated or otherwise processed to generate an aerosol. During inhalation, unit 340 may provide an aerosol for inhalation. The aerosol flows along inhalation airflow path A toward mouthpiece 320 and to the user. When filter unit 330 is engaged, the user may then exhale into system 300, where the vapor may be processed by filter unit 330. Use of unit 340 eliminates the need for the user to directly handle the vapor-forming material. Exhaling into system 300 is more hygienic for people in the vicinity of the user.

[0046] The system 300 may have a vapor-forming material (or aerosol-generating material) in a unit 340. The vapor-forming material-containing unit 340 may be disposed in the system 300 disclosed herein as separate from the power source 310 and the filter unit 330. In one example, the power source 310 may be disposed at the distal end of the system 300. The vapor-forming material-containing unit 340 may be proximal to and connected to the power source 310 such that the unit 340 can use electrical power to form vapor from the vapor-forming material, such as by using the electrical power to heat the vapor-forming material to generate vapor. The filter unit 330 may be at the proximal end of the system 330 (not shown in the example of FIG. 3 ) such that the vapor from the vapor-forming material-containing unit 340 can be directed to the mouthpiece 320 or an outlet near the user for inhalation before the user exhales back into the system 300. Such a configuration may be particularly advantageous for airflow and electrical connection configurations.

[0047] 4, there is shown a schematic diagram of a non-combustible aerosol delivery system 400. System 400 includes a power source 410, a mouthpiece 420, a filter unit 430, and a unit containing a vapor forming material 440. In the example shown, filter unit 430 and unit containing a vapor forming material 440 are formed together as a single assembly 450 that is removable from non-combustible aerosol delivery system 400.

[0048] The manufacturer can coordinate the lifespan of the unit containing the vapor-forming material 440 and the filter in the filter unit 430 to end at similar times so that the user can remove and replace a single assembly 450 at a time convenient for both elements. In this regard, this may allow for easier removal of one portion of system 400 (single assembly 450) that may require more frequent cleaning, for example, than the section of system 400 that houses power supply 410. Because airflow does not have to pass through power supply 410, power supply 410 is less likely to require frequent cleaning. By allowing cleaning of the portions that require more frequent cleaning, the overall lifespan of system 400 is increased.

[0049] In instances where the single assembly 450 is not designed to be discarded, replacement filters or the like can be inserted into the single assembly 450 as the filter unit 430 wears out with use. Again, this extends the overall life of the system 400 and prevents the entire system 400 from being discarded after the filter unit 430 is exhausted. The vapor forming material unit 440 may also be removed and replaced from the single assembly 450 to extend the life of the system 400.

[0050] Alternatively, a single assembly 450 may be used and discarded after use and replaced with another single assembly 450. This configuration would avoid the need for the user to come into contact with vapor-forming materials, which may be unpleasant and difficult to handle. In this manner, the user experience of the system 400 is improved. Furthermore, by disposing of only a single assembly 450, it is ensured that the power source 410 portion of the system 400 is not wasted in vain. The power source 410 may be rechargeable in any of the examples herein, and thus may be recharged rather than having to be discarded.

[0051] The vapour forming material may include a plant material.The vapour forming material may be a liquid.

[0052]

[0023] Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown a schematic diagram of a non-combustion aerosol delivery system 500. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 500 of Figure 5 includes a power source 510, a mouthpiece 520, a filter unit 530, and a vapor forming material unit 540. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 500 includes an inhalation airflow path A and an exhalation airflow path B. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 500 includes an outlet 502 through which the inhalation airflow path A may pass, and an inlet 504 through which the exhalation airflow path B may pass.

[0053] The configuration in Figure 5 is similar to that in Figure 4, but shows in more detail the paths through which the aspirated and expelled material travel. The paths for the aspirated material are shown at least partially in path sections P1A and P2A. The paths for the expelled material are shown at least partially in path sections P1B and P2B. Separation sections PX are located between these path sections P1A, P1B, P2A, and P2B.

[0054] Although not shown, inhalation airflow passage A may begin, such as at vapor generating medium unit 540, and extend along passage portion P2A into mouthpiece 520 to passage portion P1A. Inhalation airflow passage A then extends along inhalation airflow passage portion P1A through mouthpiece 520 to outlet 502 and to the user.

[0055] Exhaust airflow passage B enters exhalation airflow passage portion P1B at inlet 504. Exhalation airflow passage B extends along exhalation airflow passage portion P1B and then along passage portion P2B. Although not shown in Figure 5, passage portion P2B (as in Figure 4) can carry exhaled material through mouthpiece 520 to filter unit 530 for processing.

[0056] In this example, the inhalation airflow path A and the exhalation airflow path B are therefore completely separate from each other. In this way, the system 500 prevents re-aspiration of any exhalation in a subsequent puff. Each inhalation is taken along a path through which a previous exhalation cannot be taken. Thus, each inhalation cannot be contaminated by the unintentional inclusion of residual material (through condensation or otherwise) from a previous exhalation into the system 500. This provides a more reproducible and familiar vapor for inhalation and prevents unintentional changes in vapor composition. This therefore improves the user experience of the system. The outlets 502, 504 may be contained within separate mouthpieces, in which case the user inhales from one mouthpiece and exhales into the other.

[0057]

[0023] Referring now to Figure 6, there is shown a schematic diagram of a non-combustion aerosol delivery system 600. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 600 of Figure 6 includes a power source 610, a mouthpiece 620, and a filter unit 630. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 600 includes an inhalation airflow passage A and an exhalation airflow passage B. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 600 includes an outlet 602 through which the inhalation airflow passage A and the exhalation airflow passage B pass.

[0058] In the example of FIG. 6, the portion P1 of the inhalation airflow passage A and the portion P1 of the exhalation airflow passage B are the same. Utilizing the same passage for the portion P1 of the inhalation airflow passage A and the portion P1 of the exhalation airflow passage B allows the option of using one outlet 602 in the system 600. In this manner, the number of components of the system 600 is reduced, which may result in an overall lifespan of the system 600 being extended. Similarly, the shared portion P1 allows for a more compact construction of the system 600, which may lead to an improved user experience of the system 600. For example, the system 600 of FIG. 6 does not need to have two mouthpieces or outlets, but rather only one mouthpiece 620 with one outlet 602.

[0059] Shown are an intake airflow passage A and an exhaust airflow passage B. Both passages A and B enter into a path P1, which branches off at P2. The intake airflow passage A enters into path P1 at branch P2A. The exhaust airflow passage B exits from path P1 and enters into branch P2B. Thus, the two airflow passages A and B share a portion P1 of paths P1 and P2.

[0060] Inhalation airflow pathway A is shown leading from the aerosol generating component 640 to the outlet 602 of the mouthpiece 620. Exhalation airflow pathway B is shown leading from the outlet 602 of the mouthpiece 620 to the filter unit 630. The aerosol generating component 640 may include an arrangement of a heater and aerosolizable material that, upon use, generates a vapor for inhalation.

[0061] System 600 has a mouthpiece portion 650 configured to move between an inhalation position, in which mouthpiece 620 is in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passageway and not in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhalation airflow passageway, and in which mouthpiece 620 is in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passageway and not in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhalation airflow passageway. Portion 650 may effectively block one passageway while simultaneously opening the other, or vice versa.

[0062] In one example, the mouthpiece portion 650 is a diverter assembly 650. The diverter 650 is shown in dotted lines. Such a diverter assembly 650 may be arranged to allow passage of inhalation airflow from passage portion P2A to passage portion P1 during inhalation and to prevent any airflow from passage portion P1 to passage portion P2B during inhalation. The diverter assembly 650 may be arranged to allow passage of exhalation airflow from passage portion P1 to passage portion P2B during exhalation and to prevent any airflow from passage portion P2A to passage portion P1 during exhalation. In this way, the system 600 provides controlled passage of the exhalation airflow to a filter for processing while avoiding the exhalation from interacting with and consuming the aerosol-generating material in the aerosol-generating component 640. The diverter assembly 650 may be a multi-flap valve, the flaps of which have a thickness of 0.7 mm or less, for example 0.5 mm or less.

[0063] 7A and 7B, there is shown a cross-sectional view of a non-combustion aerosol delivery system 700. Although not shown, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system 700 has similar features to the previously described examples of FIGS.

[0064] The non-combustible aerosol delivery system 700 of FIG. 7A has an inhalation airflow path A and an exhalation airflow path B. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system 700 has an outlet 702 through which the inhalation airflow path A and the exhalation airflow path B may pass. The system 700 also has a movable part 706 as part of a mouthpiece 720. The system 700 has a hinge 708. The mouthpiece 720 is hinged by the hinge 708 for rotation in the direction indicated by arrow R between an inhalation position (FIG. 7A) and an exhalation position (FIG. 7B). The system 700 of FIGS. 7A and 7B has an inlet / outlet port 709 that is in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow path A and not in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhalation airflow path B in the inhalation position (FIG. 7A), with the opposite relationship relative to the exhalation position (FIG. 7B).

[0065] The inlet position is shown in Figure 7A. Inlet airflow passage A leads from the interior of the system 700 to the outlet 702 in Figure 7A. Exhaust airflow passage B is shown as blocked in Figure 7A and is therefore dashed.

[0066] The discharge position is shown in Figure 7B. Discharge airflow path B in Figure 7B leads from outlet 702 to the filter of system 700. Intake airflow path A is shown as blocked in Figure 7A and is therefore dashed.

[0067] The use of rotation allows the system 700 to be designed more ergonomically because it utilizes a portion of the mouthpiece 720 for both paths A, B. In this manner, the system 700 may be more compact and therefore easier for the user to handle and store.

[0068] The mouthpiece in the described system may thus move to allow airflow to pass between different passages in the system. The movement of the mouthpiece may block one passage and open the other. In one embodiment, the spring-loaded mouthpiece is arranged to move between an inhalation position and an exhalation position. Other mechanical or electrical elements, such as a slider, may be used to move the mouthpiece to engage one path or the other. A mechanical element, such as a slider, may move the mouthpiece or a valve. An electric valve (e.g., a flexible solenoid valve) may be used that may be activated by a button or the like on the system.

[0069] Any combination of valves, passages, diverters, spring-loaded or biasing mechanisms may be used in the system. Valve thicknesses have been considered and thickness values ​​between 0.1 mm and 0.7 mm, e.g., 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm, have been found to be particularly effective. These have been found to balance the requirements of valve actuation tensile strength and pressure drop. In particular, a 0.1 mm flap thickness has been found to provide a favorable pressure drop such that the user experience is not compromised during dispensing. The thinner the flap, the less pressure is required to move it. Such flaps have shown minor leakage issues in several instances, and therefore thicker flaps may be advantageous in certain cases. In particular, a 0.5 mm flap thickness has shown greater liquid retention and therefore does not exhibit leakage as easily. Thus, where liquid loss is not particularly desirable, a valve thickness of 0.5 mm or thicker (e.g., 0.7 mm) may be selected. A 0.3 mm thickness is a middle ground that allows both good pressure drop and good leakage prevention.

[0070] In some examples, an acceptable pressure drop for a reasonable user experience of the system is about 300 Pa. The valve thickness may then be selected so as not to contribute a pressure drop greater than about 300 Pa. Of course, both the valve and the filter may contribute to the pressure drop, although not necessarily in a linear manner, and the overall effect may be calculated to be about 300 Pa while still providing effective filtering. The examples shown herein provide such an advantageous balance.

[0071] 8, there is shown a schematic diagram of a non-combustion aerosol delivery system 800. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 800 of FIG. 8 includes a power source 810, a mouthpiece 820, and a filter unit 830.

[0072] 8, filter unit 830 is formed as part of mouthpiece 820. The size of filter unit 830 depends on the required filter area, which may depend on the choice of filter in filter unit 830 and the effectiveness of that filter unit 830. Therefore, it may be advantageous for filter 830 to be located away from the main body of system 800 so as to have minimal impact on the general shape and size of system 800. Airflow may be directed into filter unit 830 by any of the methods described above.

[0073] 9, there is shown a schematic diagram of a non-combustion aerosol delivery system 900. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system 900 of FIG.

[0074] 9, filter unit 930 is formed as part of mouthpiece 920. The size of mouthpiece / filter unit 920, 930 depends on the required filter area, which may depend on the choice of filter in filter unit 930 and the effectiveness of that filter unit 930. Therefore, it may be advantageous for filter 930 to be located away from the main body of system 900 so as to have minimal impact on the overall shape and size of system 900.

[0075] In the example of Figure 9, the mouthpiece / filter units 920, 930 are elongated, as compared to the arrangement shown in Figure 2 where filter unit 230 is separate, and as compared to the arrangement shown in Figure 8 where filter unit 830 is a bulk addition to one side of mouthpiece 820. Airflow can be directed into filter unit 930 by any of the methods described above. The impact of each of these on the size of the filter unit depends on the effectiveness of the filter. Effective filter selection is therefore advantageous in producing a compact system.

[0076] The filter unit may thus contain at least one filter comprising a material selected from glass fibre, polypropylene and combinations thereof, which have been found to be particularly effective in removing liquid droplets from the vapour.

[0077] The filter unit may be arranged to effectively collect vapor from the user's breath. This may be done by using a filter comprising a material selected from glass fibers in the filter unit. In another example, the filter unit may additionally or alternatively have a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filters may be formed from non-woven glass filament cloth sheets, cellulose "paper" sheets, or plastic fibers. These may be formed into high surface area filters by the use of pleated structures and tortuous paths. HEPA filters may be made from either microglass fibers or polymers, or a mixture of both (combinations may be used that make the filter stronger when pleated). Polymers are believed to have a modest advantage in terms of electrostatic attraction of particles. In another example, the filter unit may additionally or alternatively have a filter comprising a material selected from polypropylene.

[0078] Other filter materials that may be used include borosilicate glass (Whatman glass microfiber with a liquid particle retention capacity of 2.7 μm), isoporous hydrophilic polycarbonate (pore size 0.2 μm), hydrophilic nylon mesh (pore size 10-11 μm), lint-free cloth, and polypropylene (pore size 0.4 μm).

[0079] Each of these filters has been shown to be particularly advantageous in retaining vapors.

[0080] The system can thus remove vapour from the user's breath exhaled through the exhalation flow passage B. Furthermore, the system can also remove vapour from the exhaled stream, for example by separating aerosol droplets from the vapour using a separator. In a particular example, the filter unit comprises a vortex separator for removing aerosol droplets from the vapour. This can be advantageously combined with a filter material in the filter unit to more efficiently remove vapour from the exhaled stream.

[0081] In some examples, the system may further include a complex flow path separator. The complex flow path separator may be part of the filter unit or separate from the filter unit. The complex flow path separator may redirect or divert the exhaled flow within the system. In some examples, the complex flow path separator lengthens the path through which the exhaled flow travels, which allows for further separation of the aerosol droplets from the vapor. This in turn allows for a more efficient system for receiving and processing the exhaled flow. Reducing the pressure drop in the system during a user's exhalation is advantageous because the user experiences less flow restriction. In this way, the user experience is improved as the above elements perform the functions of the system while reducing the pressure drop.

[0082] In one example, the filter unit further comprises a water filtering unit. The water filtering unit may comprise water that can be passed through the exhaled breath and filtered. Water filtering works by passing and impacting the steam bubbles with a liquid, in this case water. This technique is particularly effective as the steam bubbles have a large water-steam surface area to interact with, although other liquids may be used. This technique may also be used in conjunction with other techniques to recover steam from the user's exhaled breath.

[0083] In one example, the filter unit may comprise at least one deodorizing filter. The deodorizing filter advantageously allows for the removal of undesirable odors from the exhaled steam, thereby improving the user experience of the system. The at least one deodorizing filter may comprise at least one filter comprising activated carbon. Activated carbon is a particularly effective deodorizing filter.

[0084] In one example, the filter unit may comprise at least one filter comprising activated carbon. Activated carbon allows for the absorption of volatile compounds that may be present in the exhaled matter. Removing and absorbing these is particularly advantageous to prevent the volatile compounds from affecting other components of the system. A further advantage concerns the pressure drop experienced with activated carbon, which is similar to several types of aerosolizable materials that may be used with the present system to generate aerosols that are inhaled by the user. Thus, the user may experience little or no pressure drop during exhaled breath. Thus, this results in an improved user experience of the system. Activated carbon may be provided as a block or the like, which is penetrated by several holes to allow the passage of the exhaled matter.

[0085] The non-combustion aerosol delivery device may have a generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis and may optionally comprise two main components: a control body (containing a power source) and a cartomizer (containing a filter unit). The cartomizer may include an internal chamber containing a reservoir of contents, such as a liquid containing nicotine, a vaporizer (e.g., a heater), and a mouthpiece. References to "nicotine" herein are to be understood as merely exemplary and may be replaced with any suitable active ingredient. References to "liquid" as a content herein are to be understood as merely exemplary and may be replaced with any suitable content, such as a plant-derived substance (e.g., tobacco that is to be heated rather than burned), or a gel containing an active ingredient and / or flavoring. The reservoir may comprise a foam matrix or any other structure for holding the liquid until it is needed to deliver it to the vaporizer. In the case of liquid / flowable contents, the aerosol generating component is for vaporizing the liquid, and the cartomizer may further include a wick or similar mechanism on or adjacent to the aerosol generating component for transporting a small amount of liquid from a reservoir to the vaporization site. A heater is used as a specific example of an aerosol generating component in this disclosure. However, it will be appreciated that other forms of aerosol generating components (e.g., those that utilize ultrasound) can also be used, and that the type of aerosol generating component used will depend on the type of content to be vaporized.

[0086] The power source may include a rechargeable cell or battery for powering the non-combustion aerosol delivery system. The power source may also include a circuit board for overall control of the non-combustion aerosol delivery system. In some examples, when the aerosol generating component receives power from the battery, which may be controlled by the circuit board, the aerosol generating component vaporizes the liquid, and the vapor is then inhaled by the user through the mouthpiece. In some specific embodiments, the main body is further provided with a manual activation device, such as a button, switch, or touch sensor located on the exterior surface of the main body.

[0087] The control body and the cartomizer may be detachable from each other, but are joined together by a connection to provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the control body and the cartomizer when the system is in use. The electrical connector on the control body 20 used to connect to the cartomizer also serves as a socket to connect a charging device (not shown) when the control body is detached from the cartomizer. The other end of the charging device may be plugged into a USB socket to recharge the battery in the control body of the non-combustible aerosol delivery device, which may be an e-cigarette. In other implementations, a cable may be provided for direct connection between the electrical connector on the control body and the USB socket.

[0088] The non-burning aerosol delivery device is provided with one or more holes for air inlet. These holes are connected to an air passageway through the electronic aerosol supply device to the mouthpiece. When the user inhales through the mouthpiece, air is drawn into this air passageway through one or more air inlet holes located at suitable positions on the exterior surface of the non-burning aerosol delivery device. When the heater is activated to vaporize the nicotine from the cartridge, the airflow passes through the generated vapor and mixes with the vapor, and then this combination of airflow and generated vapor moves out of the mouthpiece and is inhaled by the user. Except in the case of a single-use device, the cartomizer can be detached from the control body and disposed of (and replaced with another cartomizer if so desired) when the liquid supply is exhausted.

[0089] In some cases, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device may include a means for controlling the airflow behavior in the system. The portion of the airflow path that provides a fluid communication passage between the mouthpiece and one or more air inlet holes of the device may be provided with a movable mechanism for changing the shape of the airflow path (e.g., the topology of the walls that bound the airflow passage) and thus the characteristics of the airflow in the non-combustion aerosol delivery device. For example, the movable mechanism (such as a valve, baffle, or inlet) may allow modification of operating parameters such as the resistance to draw of the system, the degree of turbulence in the airflow path, the direction of the airflow in the vicinity of the aerosol generating component, and the condensation path distance between the aerosol generating component and the mouthpiece.

[0090] In some examples, the resistance to draw of the device can be modified by providing a means for selectively opening or closing one or more air inlets configured to admit air into an air passage included in the device. In some examples, an element may be provided for redirecting the airflow into or out of the system. In this manner, the flow paths of the intake airflow passage A and the exhaust airflow passage B can be controlled. For example, a slider may be provided on the outer housing of the system, configured to be moved (e.g., rotated about an axis or displaced along an axis) to different positions. The slider may be mechanically or electrically connected to effect the resulting change in paths A, B, such as via the movement of a baffle or valve, etc.

[0091] In some examples, the slider may be actuated by an electromechanical actuator, such as a linear or rotary actuator, and the actuator position may be controlled by a control circuit to adjust the position of the components that control the configuration of the airflow passages A, B. The device may include other features for modifying the airflow through the device, controlled in a similar manner by the control circuit. For example, one or more movable baffles, or a mechanical opening, or one or more air inlets may be disposed in the air passage of the system near the aerosol generation component or, for example, the mouthpiece. These features may be moved to different positions to adjust the manner in which the incoming airflow exits the aerosol generation component or enters / exits the mouthpiece of the system.

[0092] For example, one or more baffles can be moved to direct airflow into portion P1 of a path through the system 200 (during inhalation) and into portion P2B of a path through the system 200 (during exhalation).

[0093] It will be appreciated that the non-combustion aerosol delivery devices shown in Figures 1-3 are presented as examples, and various other implementations may be employed. For example, in some embodiments, the cartomizer may be provided as two separable components: a cartridge with a liquid reservoir and a mouthpiece (replaceable when liquid from the reservoir is exhausted), and an aerosol generating component with a heater (generally retained). As another example, the charging mechanism may be connected to an additional or alternative power source, such as an automobile cigarette lighter.

[0094] As used herein, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, or non-combustion aerosol delivery system, is a system that releases a compound from an aerosol-forming material without combusting the aerosol-forming material, such as e-cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems for generating aerosols using a combination of aerosol-forming materials.

[0095] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol delivery system is one in which the aerosol-generating materials that are components of the aerosol delivery system (or components thereof) are not combusted or burned for the purpose of facilitating delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0096] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, such as an electrically powered non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0097] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an e-cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0098] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. An example system is a tobacco heating system.

[0099] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system for generating aerosol using a combination of multiple aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in solid, liquid, or gel form, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0100] Generally, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include a non-combustion aerosol delivery device and a consumable for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery device.

[0101] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include an aerosol-generating material and are configured for use with a non-combustible aerosol delivery device. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

[0102] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system, e.g., the non-combustion aerosol delivery device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electrical power source or a heat generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat generating power source includes a carbon substrate that can be energized to deliver power in the form of heat to the aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the heat generating power source.

[0103] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system may include a consumable receiving area, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0104] In some embodiments, consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol delivery device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transport component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0105] What is disclosed and described in the above discussion are merely exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its essential characteristics. Therefore, the contents of the present disclosure are intended to be illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure and the claims. The present disclosure, including any readily discernible variations of the teachings herein, defines a portion of the terms of the above claims.

Claims

1. 1. A non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, comprising: Power supply, A mouthpiece, A removable filter unit, In a first configuration, the filter unit is present and engaged with the non-combustible aerosol delivery system, an inhalation airflow passageway configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system to a user during inhalation; an exhalation airflow passage configured to transport breath from the user to the filter unit during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; In a second configuration, the filter unit is not engaged with the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; A non-combustible aerosol delivery system, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a diverter assembly, the diverter assembly comprises a multi-flap valve, the flaps of the multi-flap valve having a thickness of 0.7 mm or less.

2. 2. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system of claim 1, wherein in the first configuration, the filter unit is disposed between the mouthpiece and the power source of the non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

3. 3. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a unit containing a vapor-forming material.

4. 1. A non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, comprising: Power supply, A mouthpiece, A filter unit; a unit containing a steam forming material; an inhalation airflow passageway configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system to a user during inhalation; an exhalation airflow passage configured to transport breath from the user to the filter unit during exhalation into the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; the filter unit and the unit containing the vapor forming material together form a single assembly that is removable from the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; A non-combustible aerosol delivery system, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a diverter assembly, the diverter assembly comprises a multi-flap valve, the flaps of the multi-flap valve having a thickness of 0.7 mm or less.

5. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system of claim 3 or 4, wherein the vapor forming material comprises a plant material.

6. 5. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 3 or 4, wherein the vapor forming material is a liquid.

7. 7. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 1, wherein the inlet airflow passage and the outlet airflow passage are completely separate from each other.

8. 7. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece forms both a portion of the inhalation airflow passage and a portion of the exhaust airflow passage and is configured to move between an inhalation position and an exhaust position, wherein in the inhalation position the mouthpiece is in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passage and is not in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhaust airflow passage, and wherein in the exhaust position the mouthpiece is not in fluid communication with the remainder of the inhalation airflow passage and is in fluid communication with the remainder of the exhaust airflow passage.

9. 9. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 8, wherein the mouthpiece is hinged for rotation between the inhalation position and the exhalation position.

10. 9. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 8, wherein the mouthpiece is rotatable to move between the inhalation position and the exhalation position.

11. 9. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 8, wherein the mouthpiece has an inlet port that is in fluid communication with a remaining portion of the inhalation airflow passage and not in fluid communication with a remaining portion of the exhalation airflow passage in the inhalation position, and an outlet port that is not in fluid communication with the remaining portion of the inhalation airflow passage and is in fluid communication with the remaining portion of the exhalation airflow passage in the exhalation position.

12. 12. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 11, wherein the inlet port and the outlet port are the same.

13. 12. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 11, wherein the inlet port and the outlet port are separate from each other.

14. 14. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the filter unit contains at least one filter comprising a material selected from glass fiber, polypropylene, and combinations thereof.

15. 15. The non-combustible aerosol delivery system of claim 1, wherein the filter unit further comprises a separator for separating aerosol droplets from vapor.

16. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the filter unit comprises at least one deodorizing filter.

17. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette.

18. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system.

19. 19. The non-combustion aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the non-combustion aerosol delivery system generates an aerosol using a combination of multiple aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which can be heated.

20. 1. A mouthpiece for use in a non-combustible aerosol delivery system in which exhaled breath is filtered, the mouthpiece, in a first configuration, being in fluid communication with a filter unit of the non-combustible aerosol delivery system in use, comprising: an inhalation airflow passage configured to transport vapor generated by the non-combustible aerosol delivery system through the mouthpiece to a user during inhalation; an exhalation airflow passageway configured to transport breath from the user through the mouthpiece to the filter unit during exhalation; In use, in a second configuration, the mouthpiece is not in fluid communication with a filter of the non-combustible aerosol delivery system; The mouthpiece comprises a diverter assembly, the diverter assembly comprising a multi-flap valve, the flaps of the multi-flap valve having a thickness of 0.7 mm or less.

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