Extraction tool for aerosol generating devices

Abstract

An extractor (20) for extracting an aerosol-forming substrate (13) from an aerosol-generating device (20). The extractor comprises a first component (21) configured to connect to the aerosol-generating device, the first component comprising a base (27) and one or more sidewalls (28) extending from the base to define a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate (13). The extractor (20) also comprises a second component (22) configured to connect to the first component (21), the second component defining a cylindrical cavity (22a) or a circular opening (220) for receiving a mouthpiece article (10) for the aerosol-generating device (30).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating article being capable of being received by the aerosol generating device, the device including an extractor to assist in removal of the aerosol-generating article after consumption. [Background technology]

[0002] Numerous prior art documents disclose aerosol generating devices, including, for example, heated smoking systems and electrically heated smoking systems. One advantage of these systems is that they significantly reduce sidestream smoke while allowing the smoker to selectively pause and resume smoking. An example of a heated smoking system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,144,962, which in one embodiment includes a flavor generating medium in contact with a heater. When the medium is depleted, both the medium and the heater are replaced. An aerosol generating device that allows the substrate to be replaced without the need to remove the heating element is desirable.

[0003] WO 2013 / 076098 discloses an aerosol generating device having a heater blade insertable into an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article and an extractor to facilitate removal of the aerosol-generating article after use. The aerosol-generating article is an elongated rod consisting of four axially aligned segments, namely a segment formed from an assembled and folded sheet of tobacco, a support element, an aerosol cooling element, and a filter segment.

[0004] The extractor is a sliding receiver that is movably coupled to the aerosol-generating device between a first position and a second position. The first position is an operating position in which the heater blade is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate, and the second position is an extraction position defined by the aerosol-forming substrate being separated from the heater blade. Thus, when the extractor is moved to the extraction position after consumption of the aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-forming substrate is extracted from the heater blade. The aerosol-generating article can then be easily removed from the extractor and device and discarded. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It would be desirable to provide an extractor arrangement that could allow the aerosol generating device to be used with other forms of aerosol generating articles, and it would also be desirable to provide an extractor arrangement that could allow the consumer to have a more customizable experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an extractor for extracting an aerosol-forming substrate from an aerosol generating device. The extractor comprises a first component configured to connect to the aerosol generating device. The first component comprises a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base to define a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate. The extractor further comprises a second component configured to connect to the first component. The second component defines a cylindrical cavity or a circular opening for receiving a mouthpiece article for the aerosol generating device.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an extractor for extracting an aerosol-forming substrate from an aerosol generating device, the extractor comprising a first component configured to connect to the aerosol generating device, the first component comprising a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base to define a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate. The extractor further comprises a second component configured to connect to the first component. In some embodiments, the second component defines a cavity, preferably a cylindrical cavity, for receiving a mouthpiece article for the aerosol generating device. The second component may comprise a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base to define a cavity or a cylindrical cavity. In some embodiments, the second component defines a circular opening for receiving a mouthpiece article for the aerosol generating device. In some preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the second component comprises a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base to define a cylindrical cavity for receiving a mouthpiece article for the aerosol generating device.

[0008] By providing an extractor with the arrangement of the first aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device can be adapted for use with other forms of aerosol generating articles. In particular, a consumer can place an aerosol-forming substrate, such as loose tobacco, in the cavity of the first component and separately place a mouthpiece article in the cavity of the second component. The consumer can connect the first component to the second component and arrange the extractor to connect to the aerosol generating device. In this way, the consumer can use a new type of aerosol generating article with the aerosol generating device. The consumer also has the choice of what type of aerosol-forming substrate to use in the cavity of the first component, but also what type of mouthpiece article to place in the cavity or opening of the second component. This can provide the consumer with a more customizable experience. For example, if a consumer has a preference for a certain type of aerosol-forming substrate (such as a certain type of tobacco cut filler), the present invention provides the consumer with the possibility to use this aerosol-forming substrate with the aerosol generating device.

[0009] The arrangement of the first aspect of the invention also allows a wider range of aerosol-forming substrates to be used with a given type of aerosol-generating device. For example, if an aerosol-generating device is configured for use with an aerosol-generating article that clearly already has an aerosol-forming substrate provided therein, there may be limitations as to what that substrate can be. For example, when the aerosol-generating article includes a tobacco segment that is intended to be penetrated by a heater blade, it may not be feasible for the tobacco segment to be provided in the form of loose cut filler. Instead, the tobacco may need to be in the form of a crimped sheet mass in order for the article to be used reliably. With the arrangement of the invention, the extractor can provide a section in the form of a cavity of the first component for the user to fill, so that such loose cut filler can be consumed.

[0010] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the second component of the extractor defines a cylindrical cavity for receiving a mouthpiece article for an aerosol generating device. In this manner, a user can insert at least a portion of the mouthpiece article into the cavity to enable the mouthpiece article to be used with the extractor and an associated aerosol generating device. The mouthpiece article can be held relative to the extractor by engagement between an outer surface of the mouthpiece article and the surface(s) of the second component that define the cavity.

[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the second component of the extractor defines a circular opening for receiving a mouthpiece article for an aerosol generating device. In this manner, a user can insert at least a portion of the mouthpiece article into the circular opening to enable the mouthpiece article to be used with the extractor and an associated aerosol generating device. The mouthpiece article can be held against the extractor by engagement between an outer surface of the mouthpiece article and an edge of the circular opening of the second component. When the first component of the extractor is connected to the second component of the extractor, one side of the circular opening may be adjacent to the cavity of the first component. The other side of the circular opening may be on the outer surface of the extractor. As a result, when the extractor is in use, aerosol may flow from the cavity of the first component through the opening of the second component to the exterior of the extractor.

[0012] The second component may comprise a cap configured to cover one end of the first component. The first end of the first component may comprise an open end of the cavity of the first component. The cap may comprise a cap top wall. The cap top wall may be configured to cover the open end of the cavity of the first component. The circular opening of the second component may be provided in the cap top wall. The circular opening may be located in a central region of the cap top wall. The cap of the second component may comprise one or more cap sidewalls configured to overlie at least a portion of a corresponding sidewall of the first component. The one or more cap sidewalls of the second component may be configured to form a snap-fit ​​engagement with the corresponding sidewall of the first component. The one or more cap sidewalls of the second component may extend from the cap top wall.

[0013] When connected to the aerosol generating device, the extractor may be configured to slide between a first position and a second position. The first position may be an operating position in which a heating element of the aerosol generating device is capable of heating an aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity of the first compartment to generate an aerosol. The second position may be an extraction position in which the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity of the first compartment has been moved away from the heating element.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, the extractor may comprise a heating element. For example, the base of the first component of the extractor may comprise a heating element. In such an embodiment, the first position may be an operating position in which the heating element of the extractor is capable of heating the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity of the first compartment to generate an aerosol. For example, in the first position, the heating element of the extractor may be configured to receive power from a power source of the aerosol generating device. The second position may be an extraction position in which the heating element of the extractor is not capable of heating the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity of the first compartment.

[0015] Where the extractor comprises a heating element, the extractor may further comprise electrical contacts electrically connected to the heating element of the extractor. The electrical contacts of the extractor may be configured to form an electrical connection with corresponding electrical contacts on the aerosol generation device when the extractor is connected to the aerosol generation device, and preferably when the extractor is in the first position.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, when the extractor comprises a heating element, the heating element may comprise a susceptor element. The susceptor element may be configured to receive power from an inductor in the aerosol generating device when the extractor is connected to the aerosol generating device, and preferably when the extractor is in the first position. The inductor may comprise an inductor coil and a power supply connected to the inductor coil. The power supply may be configured to provide a high frequency current to the inductor coil such that, in use, the inductor coil generates a varying electromagnetic field to heat the susceptor element and thereby heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity of the first component of the extractor.

[0017] The heating element may include a portion having a generally serpentine shape. For example, the heating element may include a serpentine strip between a first point and a second point. The strip may have a first set of lobes and a second set of lobes, with an apex of each first lobe generally opposite an apex of a corresponding second lobe. The strip may be a susceptor element. The strip may be a piece of electrical resistive wire.

[0018] To use the extractor of the first aspect of the present invention, a user may first place the extractor in a first position or a second position. The user may then fill the cavity of the first component of the extractor with an aerosol-forming substrate, such as loose cut filler. The user may then attach the second component of the extractor to the first component and place at least a portion of the mouthpiece article in the cavity or opening of the second component. When the extractor is in the second position, the user may then move the extractor to the first position. The user may then activate the heating element to generate aerosol and consume the aerosol. When the user has finished consuming, the user may then move the extractor to the second position. When in the second position, the user may detach the second component of the extractor from the first component of the extractor and may remove the used aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity of the first component. The user may also remove the mouthpiece article that is placed in the cavity or opening of the second component. The user may then repeat the process with a new aerosol-forming substrate and a new mouthpiece article. Alternatively, the user may reuse the mouthpiece article.

[0019] The one or more side walls of the first component preferably consist of a single side wall extending from the base of the first component. Alternatively, the first component may have between three and six side walls, each extending from a different portion of the base of the first component.

[0020] Preferably, the one or more side walls of the first component extend around the entire circumference of the base of the first component, and more preferably, the first component has a single cylindrical side wall that extends around the entire circumference of the base of the first component.

[0021] The one or more side walls of the second component preferably consist of a single side wall extending from the base of the second component. Alternatively, the second component may have between three and six side walls, each extending from a different portion of the base of the second component.

[0022] Preferably, the one or more side walls of the second component extend around the entire circumference of the base of the second component, and more preferably, the second component has a single cylindrical side wall that extends around the entire circumference of the base of the second component.

[0023] In some embodiments, each side wall of the first component has a first end proximate to the base of the first component and a second end distal to the base of the first component. In such embodiments, when the second component is connected to the first component and the second component comprises a base, the base of the second component may be positioned adjacent to the second end of one or more side walls of the first component. In some embodiments, when the second component is connected to the first component, the base of the second component may close a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, when the second component is connected to the first component and the second component comprises a cap top wall, the cap top wall of the second component may be positioned adjacent to the second end of one or more side walls of the first component. This may advantageously hold any aerosol-forming substrate within the cavity of the first compartment before or during use of the aerosol generating device.

[0024] The base of the first component may include at least one opening. The at least one opening may be sized and shaped to allow a heating element of the aerosol generating device to extend into the cavity of the first component when the extractor is connected to the aerosol generating device. In some embodiments, the base of the first component has a single opening located in the center of the base. When the extractor is connected to the aerosol generating device, the single opening may allow air to flow into the cavity and may allow a heating element of the aerosol generating device to extend into the cavity of the first component.

[0025] The base of the first component may further comprise at least one sheath extending into the cavity of the first component, each sheath extending from a respective one of the at least one opening. The sheaths may function to protect a heating element inserted into the cavity through a respective opening in the sheath. The sheath may prevent the heating element from coming into direct contact with any aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity. This may be helpful in keeping the heating element clean.

[0026] The sheath may have a first end disposed at the opening from which the sheath extends and an opposite second end. The second end of the sheath may be open. Alternatively, the second end of the sheath may be closed. This may prevent the tip of the heating element from directly contacting any aerosol-forming substrate present in the cavity.

[0027] The sheath may comprise a thermally conductive material, which may advantageously facilitate the transfer of heat from the heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate received in the cavity. For example, the sheath may comprise a material having a thermal conductivity measured at 20 degrees Celsius of at least 5 W / (m*K) (watts per meter and per Kelvin), in particular a material having a thermal conductivity measured at 20 degrees Celsius of at least 10 W / (m*K) (watts per meter and per Kelvin), preferably at least 50 W / (m*K) (watts per meter and per Kelvin), more preferably at least 100 W / (m*K) (watts per meter and per Kelvin), even more preferably at least 150 W / (m*K) (watts per meter and per Kelvin), most preferably at least 200 W / (m*K) (watts per meter and per Kelvin). The sheath may comprise a metallic material, such as a pure metal or an alloy. For example, the sheath may include or be formed from at least one of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, platinum, gold, or alloys of such metals.

[0028] The height of the one or more side walls of the first component may be greater than the height of the one or more side walls of the second component. This may be helpful to keep the overall height of the extractor within a desired range, while allowing sufficient space within the cavity of the first component to accommodate the aerosol-forming substrate. The height of the one or more side walls of the first component may be at least 1.5 times greater than the height of the one or more side walls of the second component. For example, the height of the one or more side walls of the first component may be at least 2.0 or 2.5 times greater than the height of the one or more side walls of the second component.

[0029] The height of the one or more side walls of the first component may be from about 5 millimeters to about 20 millimeters, preferably from about 10 millimeters to about 15 millimeters. The height of the one or more side walls of the first component may be about 12 millimeters.

[0030] The height of the one or more sidewalls of the second component may be selected to be large enough to ensure that the mouthpiece article is retained within the cylindrical cavity by an interference fit during use. For example, the height of the one or more sidewalls of the second component may be at least about 1 millimeter.

[0031] The height of the one or more sidewalls of the second component may be selected to be small enough to ensure that a user's mouth or lips do not contact the one or more sidewalls of the second component during use. For example, the height of the one or more sidewalls of the second component may be about 5 millimeters or less.

[0032] The height of the one or more side walls of the second component may be from about 1 millimeter to about 5 millimeters.

[0033] The first component is preferably configured to allow air to flow into the cavity of the first component. If one or more openings are provided on the base of the first component, at least one of these openings may be configured to allow air to flow into the cavity of the first component. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more side walls of the first component may be provided with one or more openings for allowing air to flow into the cavity of the first component. Preferably, such one or more openings are provided at a first end of the one or more side walls proximate the base of the first component.

[0034] When the second component is connected to the first component, a chamber may be formed in the first component, the chamber being bounded by the base of the first component, one or more sidewalls of the first component, and the base of the second component.

[0035] The extractor may be provided with means for allowing air to escape from such chamber. Thus, the base of the second component preferably comprises at least one breathable portion. The at least one breathable portion may allow airflow to exit the chamber and be directed to the consumer's mouth. The entire base of the second component is preferably formed from a breathable mesh.

[0036] The at least one breathable portion may be provided in the form of a mesh formed within the base of the second component. The mesh may comprise an array of filaments. The mesh may be woven or non-woven. The mesh may be formed using different types of weave or lattice structures. Preferably, the mesh has a plain weave design.

[0037] The mesh may have a mesh density of about 5 to about 25 filaments per centimeter (+ / - 10 percent). Advantageously, mesh densities within this range have been found to retain the aerosol-forming substrate within the cavity without increasing the resistance to withdrawal of the aerosol-generating article.

[0038] The mesh may be formed of any suitable material, such as plastic, ceramic, metal, or any combination thereof. Preferably, the mesh may be formed from food grade stainless steel.

[0039] The first component may be attached to the second component by any suitable attachment mechanism, for example, the first component may be configured to attach to the second component by a snap-fit ​​engagement, an interference fit engagement, or a magnetic engagement.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first component and the second component each include cooperating threads for connecting the first component to the second component, For example, an outer surface of the first component may be provided with a first thread and an inner surface of the second component may be provided with a corresponding second thread.

[0041] The extractor arrangement of the first aspect of the invention can advantageously allow consumers to assemble their own aerosol-generating article into a device configured to heat but not combust the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. This novel arrangement can advantageously allow the user to customize their experience. Different users have different preferences. Thus, the cavity of the first component should be sized to allow the consumer to choose the amount of aerosol-forming substrate they wish to include in the extractor. The inner surface of at least one side wall of the first compartment may be provided with markings. This can advantageously help the user to determine the amount of aerosol-forming substrate to be included.

[0042] Thus, according to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an extractor for extracting an aerosol-forming substrate from an aerosol generating device, the extractor being configured to connect to the aerosol generating device and comprising a base and one or more side walls extending from the base, each side wall having an inner surface defining a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate, and at least one side wall being provided with a marking. Providing such markings advantageously aids a user in determining how much of the aerosol-forming substrate to include in the extractor. The markings may be provided on one or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the at least one side wall. Providing the markings on the inner surface of the at least one side wall may enable a user to precisely see whether or not they have filled the cavity to the level indicated by the markings. In some embodiments, the at least one side wall may be transparent. In such embodiments, the markings may be provided within the side wall, as the transparency of the side wall may enable a user to see the markings. A transparent sidewall may also allow a user to view the markings from both sides of the sidewall, regardless of whether the markings are provided on the inner or outer surface of the sidewall.

[0043] In a second embodiment of the invention, there is no requirement for a second component to be attached to the first component. Instead, after the user uses the markings to insert an appropriate amount of aerosol-forming substrate into the cavity, the user may then insert one end of the mouthpiece article directly into the same cavity. Thus, the height of one or more side walls of the extractor should preferably be sized to accommodate both the aerosol-forming substrate and a portion of the mouthpiece article.

[0044] In a second aspect of the invention, the one or more side walls of the extractor preferably consist of a single side wall extending from the base of the extractor. Alternatively, the extractor may have between three and six side walls, each extending from a different portion of the base of the extractor. The one or more side walls of the extractor preferably extend around the entire circumference of the base of the extractor. More preferably, the extractor has a single cylindrical side wall extending around the entire circumference of the base of the extractor.

[0045] Each side wall of the extractor preferably has a first end proximate the base and a second end distal from the base, and the markings are provided between the first and second ends of its respective side wall.

[0046] Preferably, the sidewall of the extractor having the marking has a height defined by the distance between a first end of the sidewall and a second end of the sidewall, and the marking is spaced from the base by a distance between about 50 percent and 90 percent of the height of the sidewall, which can provide a proper division of the space within the cavity for the aerosol-forming substrate and the edge of the mouthpiece article.

[0047] The markings may be located only on one portion of the perimeter of the cavity. The markings may be located only on one wall of the extractor. The markings preferably extend around the entire perimeter of the cavity. This can help a user to see the markings even throughout the entire 360 ​​degree viewing range.

[0048] The marking may form the whole or part of the indicia. As used herein, "indicia" refers to a separate visual element or related elements or patterns. The indicia may be in the form of text, images, characters, phrases, logos, patterns or combinations thereof. The marking may be provided on the inner surface of one or more side walls by any suitable means, such as one or more of printing and engraving. The marking may provide a visual aid to the consumer to inform him or her how much of the aerosol-forming substrate he or she should provide into the cavity.

[0049] The marking preferably comprises at least one line. Preferably, the at least one line is a dotted line. In some embodiments, the marking may comprise a first line and a second line spaced apart from the first line. The first line and the second line may be parallel to each other. The first line may be used to indicate a first fill level and the second line may be used to indicate a second fill level. The indicia may suggest which fill level should be used based on a desired user experience or the type of aerosol-forming substrate being used.

[0050] The extractor may have a longitudinal axis extending through a base of the extractor. When the marking comprises at least one line, it is preferred that the at least one line extends along a side of the cavity in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0051] The base of the extractor of the second aspect of the invention may comprise at least one opening. The at least one opening may be sized and shaped to allow a heating element of the aerosol generating device to extend into the cavity of the extractor when the extractor is connected to an aerosol generating device. In some embodiments, the base of the extractor has a single opening located in the center of the base. When the extractor is connected to an aerosol generating device, the single opening may allow air to flow into the cavity and may allow a heating element of the aerosol generating device to extend into the cavity of the extractor.

[0052] The base of the extractor of the second aspect of the invention may further comprise at least one sheath extending into the cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate, each sheath extending from a respective one of the at least one opening. The sheaths may function to protect a heating element inserted into the cavity through a respective opening in the sheath. The sheath may prevent the heating element from coming into direct contact with any aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity. This may be useful for keeping the heating element clean.

[0053] The sheath may have a first end disposed at the opening from which the sheath extends and an opposite second end. The second end of the sheath may be open. Alternatively, the second end of the sheath may be closed. This may prevent the tip of the heating element from directly contacting any aerosol-forming substrate present in the cavity.

[0054] The extractor of the first and second aspects of the invention may be configured to be attached to an aerosol generating device. Thus, according to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a body having a first end and a second end, the first end defining a device cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article, a heating element disposed within the device cavity, and an extractor configured to connect to the first end of the body of the aerosol generating device, the extractor being according to one or both of the first and second aspects of the invention.

[0055] An aerosol-generating device is a device configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may comprise one or more components used to supply energy from a power source to the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. For example, the aerosol-generating device may be a heated aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may be an electrically heated aerosol-generating device or a gas heated aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may be a smoking device that heats an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled directly into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol-generating device may be a holder for an aerosol-generating article.

[0056] The heating element may be an electric heater or part of an electric heater assembly.

[0057] The aerosol generating device may include a power source for supplying power to the electric heater. The power source may be any suitable power source, such as, for example, a DC voltage source. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium cobalt battery, a lithium iron phosphate battery, or a lithium polymer battery).

[0058] The aerosol generating device may further comprise an electronic circuit arranged to be connected to a power source and to the electric heater. If more than one heating element is provided, the electronic circuit may be provided such that the heating elements are independently controllable. The electronic circuit may be programmable.

[0059] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further comprises a sensor for detecting airflow, which indicates that the user is taking a puff, which allows activation of the electric heater upon puffing, or improved energy management of the electric heater. The sensor may be any of a mechanical device, an electromechanical device, an optical device, an opto-mechanical device, and a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) based sensor. In that embodiment, the sensor may be connected to a power source, and the system is arranged to activate the electric heater when the sensor detects that the user is taking a puff. In an alternative embodiment, the aerosol generating device further comprises a manually operable switch for the user to initiate a puff or to allow a longer lasting smoking experience.

[0060] The term "aerosol-forming substrate" as used herein relates to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. Such a volatile compound may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be adsorbed, coated, impregnated or otherwise loaded onto a carrier or support.

[0061] The aerosol-forming substrate preferably comprises a plant material and an aerosol former, the plant material preferably being an alkaloid-containing plant material, more preferably being a nicotine-containing plant material, more preferably being a tobacco-containing material.

[0062] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least 70 percent by weight of plant material on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least 90 percent by weight of plant material. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises less than 95 percent by weight of plant material on a dry weight basis, such as 90-95 percent by weight of plant material on a dry weight basis.

[0063] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least 5 weight percent of the aerosol former on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least 10 weight percent of the aerosol former on a dry weight basis.Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises less than 30 weight percent of the aerosol former on a dry weight basis, such as from 5 to 30 weight percent of the aerosol former on a dry weight basis.

[0064] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises a plant material and an aerosol former, the substrate having an aerosol former content of 5-30% by weight on a dry weight basis. The plant material is preferably an alkaloid-containing plant material, more preferably a nicotine-containing plant material, more preferably a tobacco-containing material. Alkaloids are a class of naturally occurring nitrogen-containing organic compounds. Alkaloids are found primarily in plants, but also in bacteria, fungi, and animals. Examples of alkaloids include, but are not limited to, caffeine, nicotine, theobromine, atropine, and tubocurarine. A preferred alkaloid is nicotine, which may be found in tobacco.

[0065] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco, for example a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized tobacco material, for example cast leaf tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may further comprise an aerosol former. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0066] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more of reconstituted tobacco, cast leaf tobacco, shredded tobacco, collected sheet tobacco, stem tobacco, expanded tobacco, or loose cut filler.

[0067] Cut filler tobacco products for smoking articles are primarily formed from the lamina portion of the tobacco leaf that is separated from the stem portion of the leaf during the threshing process. Much of the stem portion that remains after the lamina is removed and separated is not used. However, it is not uncommon for some tobacco stems to be returned to the cut filler along with the lamina.

[0068] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a mouthpiece article comprising a rod comprising a filter segment and an aerosol cooling element, the rod having a first end having an end surface and an opposing second end having an end surface, the end surface of the first end of the rod being defined by the filter segment and the end surface of the second end of the rod being defined by the aerosol cooling element.

[0069] In contrast to existing aerosol-generating articles that are intended to be heated to form an aerosol but not combusted, the mouthpiece article of the fourth aspect of the present invention does not include an aerosol-forming substrate. Instead, the mouthpiece article may be considered in some embodiments to correspond to the structure of such existing aerosol-generating articles that do not have an aerosol-forming substrate. Thus, the upstream or second end of the mouthpiece article is not defined by an aerosol-forming substrate. Instead, it is defined by an aerosol cooling element. Such novel articles are advantageously used with an extractor according to the first aspect of the second aspect of the present invention to allow consumers to assemble their own aerosol-generating article into a device that is configured to heat but not combust an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0070] The mouthpiece article comprises a filter segment. The filter segment is preferably located at the mouth end of the rod. The filter segment is preferably in the form of a plug. The filter segment preferably comprises fibres. The fibres of the filter segment preferably comprise cellulose acetate.

[0071] The filter segments preferably have a resistance to withdrawal of about 0.4 mmH2O to about 3 mmH2O per millimeter of length. The aerosol-generating article preferably has a total resistance to withdrawal of about 0.6 mmH2O to about 1.5 mmH2O per millimeter of length, and more preferably has a total resistance to withdrawal of about 0.8 mmH2O to about 1.2 mmH2O per millimeter of length.

[0072] The mouthpiece article comprises an aerosol cooling element. The aerosol cooling element may serve to cool the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate placed in the extractor. Thus, "aerosol cooling element" refers to a component of the mouthpiece article that will be located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate in use, whereby the aerosol formed by the volatile compounds released from the aerosol-forming substrate in use passes through and is cooled by the aerosol cooling element before being inhaled by the user. The aerosol cooling element has a large surface area but generates a low pressure drop. Filters and other mouthpieces that generate a high pressure drop (e.g., filters formed of fiber bundles) are not considered to be aerosol cooling elements. Chambers and cavities within the aerosol-generating article are not considered to be aerosol cooling elements.

[0073] The aerosol cooling element may comprise a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a sheet material that is crimped, pleated, gathered, and / or folded to form the channels. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a single sheet that is crimped, pleated, gathered, and / or folded to form the channels. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a plurality of sheets that are crimped, pleated, gathered, and / or folded to form the channels.

[0074] As used herein, the term "sheet" means a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than its thickness.

[0075] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to a direction extending along or parallel to the cylindrical axis of the rod.

[0076] As used herein, the term "crimped" refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations, which preferably extend longitudinally relative to the rod when the aerosol-generating article is assembled.

[0077] As used herein, the terms "gathered," "pleated," or "folded" mean that a sheet of material is curled, folded, or otherwise compressed or contracted in a direction substantially transverse to the cylindrical axis of the rod. The sheet may be crimped prior to being gathered, pleated, or folded. The sheet may be gathered, pleated, or folded without prior crimping.

[0078] The aerosol cooling element may comprise an assembly of sheets of material selected from the group consisting of metal foil, polymeric material, and substantially non-porous paper or cardboard. In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element may comprise an assembly of sheets of material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0079] The aerosol cooling element preferably comprises an assembly of sheets of a biodegradable material, for example, an assembly of sheets of non-porous paper or a biodegradable polymeric material such as polylactic acid or Mater-Bi® grades (a commercially available family of starch-based copolyesters).

[0080] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element comprises an assembly of sheets of polylactic acid.

[0081] The aerosol cooling element may be formed from an assembly of material sheets having a specific surface area of ​​approximately 10 square millimeters per milligram weight to approximately 100 square millimeters per milligram weight, in some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element may be formed from an assembly of material sheets having a specific surface area of ​​approximately 35 mm2 / mg.

[0082] The filter segment defining the first end of the rod may be directly adjacent to the aerosol cooling element defining the second end of the rod. Alternatively, one or more additional mouthpiece article segments may be disposed between the filter segment and the aerosol cooling element. Such additional mouthpiece article segments may be one or more of a cavity, a hollow acetate tube, and a filter plug.

[0083] As used herein, the term "rod" is used to mean a generally cylindrical element of substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section.

[0084] Naturally, preferred features described above with respect to one aspect of the invention may also be applied to the other aspects of the invention. For example, preferred features of the extractor of the first aspect of the invention may also be included in the extractor of the second aspect of the invention and vice versa. That is, the extractor of the first aspect of the invention may have the marking of the second aspect of the invention and any of its preferred features. The marking may be provided on the first component of the extractor. Furthermore, the extractor of the second aspect of the invention may have the two-component structure of the first aspect of the invention and any of its preferred features.

[0085] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0086] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, and mouthpiece article according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generation device, an extractor, and an aerosol-forming substrate according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the extractor of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, extractor, aerosol-forming substrate and mouthpiece article according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows a plan view of a portion of the extractor of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0087] Figure 1 shows an elongated aerosol generating device 30 having a cavity 31 at a first end. The cavity contains an elongated heating element in the form of a heating blade 32. Although not visible in Figure 1, the heating element is an electrically resistive heating element 32, which is electrically connected to a power source within the device 30.

[0088] Adjacent to the first end of the device 30 is the extractor 20. The extractor 20 is comprised of two components, a first component 21 and a second component 22. The first component 21 is disposed to connect to the first end of the device and includes a base 27 and a single cylindrical sidewall 28 extending from the base 27. The base 27 and the sidewall 28 define an internal cavity within the first component. As shown in Figure 1, this cavity is filled with a charge of aerosol-forming substrate 13 in the form of loose shredded tobacco material.

[0089] The second component 22 is disposed to connect to the first component 21 and includes a base 23 and a cylindrical sidewall 24 extending from the base, which define a cavity 22a within the second component. The cavity 22a is disposed to receive the mouthpiece article 10, shown in Figure 1 adjacent the second component 22. The base 23 of the second component 22 is formed from a breathable mesh.

[0090] The side walls 28 of the first component also extend beyond the base 27 of the first component 21 to aid in mounting the first component 21 to the device 30 .

[0091] In Fig. 1, the system is in a fully disassembled state. In Fig. 2, the first component 21 and the second component 22 of the extractor 20 are connected to each other. In Fig. 3, the extractor 20 is connected to the aerosol generating device 30. In this position, the heating element 32 is inserted into the first component 21 through a hole 29 in the base 27 thereof, so that the heating element extends into the cavity of the first component 21 and may transfer heat to the aerosol-forming substrate 13 contained therein. Finally, in Fig. 4, the mouthpiece article 10 is inserted into the cavity 22a of the second component. In use, the user draws on the mouth-end filter 12 of the mouthpiece article 10. This causes air to enter the assembly through an air inlet (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 30. The air then passes through the opening 29 in the base of the first component and into the cavity of the first component 21. The heating element 32 heats the aerosol-forming substrate 13 in the cavity of the first component 21 to form an aerosol that is drawn by incoming air towards the breathable base 23 of the second component 22. The aerosol then passes into the cavity 22a of the second component where the aerosol cooling element 11 is located. The aerosol is cooled as it passes through the aerosol cooling element and then passes through the mouth-end filter element 12 before being inhaled by the user.

[0092] When the user is finished using the assembly, he or she can remove the mouthpiece article 10 from the cavity 22a of the second component 22 of the extractor 20. The mouthpiece article 10 can be discarded or set aside for reuse. The user then pulls the extractor away from the device 30 to the position shown in FIG. 2. It should be noted that while FIG. 2 shows the extractor 20 completely removed from the device 30, this need not be the case. Instead, the extractor 20 may remain attached to the device 30, but in an extended position, thereby pulling the heating element 32 out of the cavity of the first component 21. This process can help to detach any aerosol-forming substrate 13 that is attached to the heating element, and therefore help to keep the heating element 32 clean. When the extractor is removed from the device 30 or moved to its extended position, the first component 21 can be removed from the second component 22 and the spent aerosol-forming substrate 13 can be removed from the cavity of the first component 21. The extractor is then ready for further use with a new load of aerosol-forming substrate 13.

[0093] 5-8 show schematic views of an aerosol generating device, extractor and mouthpiece article according to a second embodiment of the present invention through various stages of use. The extractor of the second embodiment functions in a similar manner to the extractor of the first embodiment. However, as can be seen from FIG. 5, the extractor 20 of the second embodiment does not have a first component and a second component, but is instead formed as a single component 20. The single component 20 has a base 23 and a single cylindrical sidewall 28 extending from the base, which together define a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate 13. The base 23 of the extractor 20 has an opening 29 so that the heating element 32 may extend into the cavity 21a of the extractor 20. The inner surface of the cylindrical sidewall 28 is provided with a marking 26 in the form of a dotted line extending around the entire circumference of the cavity. The dotted line 26 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the extractor 20. The dotted line 26 may provide the user with a visual indication of the fill level that the user should be attempting to achieve.

[0094] In Figure 5, cavity 21a is empty and a charge of tobacco 13 is ready to be inserted into cavity 21a. In Figure 6, cavity 21a is filled with a charge of tobacco 13, with a fill level corresponding to dashed line 26. In Figure 7, extractor 20 is attached to device 30 and heating element 32 extends through opening 29 in base 27 of extractor 20. In Figure 8, mouthpiece article 10 has been inserted into a portion of cavity 21a that is not filled with tobacco 13. In this configuration, the assembly is ready for use by a consumer.

[0095] FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device, an extractor, and an aerosol-forming substrate according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The arrangement of FIG. 9 corresponds to that of the second embodiment of FIG. 5, except that the extractor 20 now comprises a sheath 25 extending into the cavity 21a. The sheath 25 extends from an opening 29 in the base 27 of the extractor 20. The sheath 25 is configured to enclose the heating element 32 when the heating element 32 is inserted into the cavity 21a of the extractor 20. The sheath 25 can serve to protect the heating element 32. The sheath 25 can also prevent the heating element 32 from coming into direct contact with any aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity 21a. This may help to improve the cleanliness of the heating element 32. A perspective view of the extractor of the third embodiment can be seen in FIG. 10.

[0096] Fig. 11 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device 30, an extractor 20, an aerosol-forming substrate 13 and a mouthpiece article 10 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The arrangement of Fig. 11 corresponds to that of the first embodiment of Fig. 1. However, in the embodiment of Fig. 11, the second component 22 of the extractor 20 now comprises a circular opening 220 instead of the cavity 22a. In particular, the second component 22 of the extractor 20 now has the form of a cap, which forms a snap-fit ​​engagement with the first component 21 and covers the open end of the cavity of the first component 21. The cap 22 comprises a cap top wall 221 with the circular opening 220. The cap also comprises a cylindrical cap side wall 222 configured to cover the cylindrical side wall of the first component 21.

[0097] The mouthpiece article 10 of Figure 11 consists only of the mouth-end filter 12 and the cooling element 11. The circular opening 220 of the extractor 20 is configured to receive the mouthpiece article 10, as shown by the arrow in Figure 11.

[0098] The extractor of the fourth embodiment in Figure 11 also differs from the extractors of the first, second and third embodiments in that the base 27 of the first component 21 comprises a heating element 332. As can be best seen in the plan view of Figure 12, the heating element 332 has a generally serpentine shape that extends across the surface of the base 27. In particular, the heating element comprises a serpentine strip 332 between a first point 333 and a second point 334 across the base 27 of the first component 21.

Claims

1. An extractor for extracting an aerosol-forming substrate from an aerosol generating device, comprising: a first component configured to connect to the aerosol generation device, the first component comprising a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base to define a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate; a second component configured to connect to the first component, the second component defining a cylindrical cavity or a circular opening for receiving a mouthpiece article for the aerosol generating device.

2. the second component comprising a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base to define the cylindrical cavity; each sidewall of the first component having a first end proximate the base of the first component and a second end distal from the base of the first component; and 2. The extractor of claim 1, wherein the base of the second component is positioned adjacent the second end of the one or more side walls of the first component when the second component is connected to the first component.

3. each sidewall of the first component having a first end proximate the base of the first component and a second end distal to the base of the first component defining an open end of the cavity of the first component; and the second component comprises a cap configured to cover the open end of the cavity of the first component, the cap comprising a cap top wall having the opening; 2. The extractor of claim 1, wherein the cap top wall of the second component is positioned adjacent the second ends of the one or more side walls of the first component when the second component is connected to the first component.

4. The extractor of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the base of the first component comprises at least one opening for allowing a heating element of the aerosol generating device to extend into the cavity of the first component when the extractor is connected to the aerosol generating device.

5. 5. The extraction tool of claim 4, wherein the base of the first component further comprises at least one sheath extending into the cavity of the first component, each sheath extending from a respective one of the at least one opening.

6. The extractor of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the base of the first component of the extractor comprises a heating element.

7. The extractor of claim 6 , wherein the heating element includes a portion having a generally serpentine shape.

8. The extractor of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first component and the second component each include cooperating threads for connecting the first component to the second component.

9. An extractor for extracting an aerosol-forming substrate from an aerosol-generating device, the extractor being configured to be connected to the aerosol-generating device, a base and one or more side walls extending from the base, each side wall having an inner surface defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate; said at least one side wall is provided with markings; said marking forming the whole or part of an indicia and / or comprising at least one line; the marking extends around the entire perimeter of the cavity; Extraction tool.

10. 10. The extractor of claim 9, wherein each side wall of the extractor has a first end proximate the base and a second end distal from the base, and the markings are provided between the first and second ends of its respective side wall.

11. 11. The extractor of claim 10, wherein the sidewall having the marking has a height defined by a distance between the first end of the sidewall and the second end of the sidewall, and the marking is spaced from the base a distance between about 50 percent and 90 percent of the height of the sidewall.

12. The extractor according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the markings consist of dashed lines.

13. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a body having a first end and a second end, the first end defining a device cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article; a heater component disposed within the device cavity; An aerosol generating device comprising: an extractor according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the extractor being configured to connect to the first end of the body of the aerosol generating device.

14. A system comprising the extractor of any one of claims 1 to 12 and a mouthpiece article for use with said extractor, said mouthpiece article comprising: a rod having a filter segment; and an aerosol cooling element; the rod having a first end having an end surface and an opposing second end having an end surface; The system, wherein the end surface of the first end of the rod is defined by the filter segment and the end surface of the second end of the rod is defined by the aerosol cooling element.

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