DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR GENERATING ATTRIBUTABLE MEDIA - Patent application

Abstract

To provide a device for generating a suckable medium.SOLUTION: A device 100 includes: a first housing part 102 configured so as to receive a first solid or gel base material 104; and a second housing part 106 configured so as to receive a second solid or gel base material 108. The device 100 further includes: a first heater 110 disposed so as to heat the first base material 104 in use; and a second heater 112 disposed so as to heat the second base material 108 in use. The device further includes a housing 114 for demarcating a flow path including the first housing part 102 and the second housing part 106, and the flow path is disposed such that a heated product generated by heating the first base material 104 received by the first housing part 102 generates a medium that can be sucked through the inside of the second housing part 106 in use.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and system for producing a suction medium, and to a method for producing a suction medium. [Background technology]

[0002] Smoking articles, such as cigarettes and cigars, burn tobacco to produce tobacco smoke during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these smoking articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products include heating devices that release compounds by heating a material rather than burning it. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products. The non-tobacco products may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus for generating an aspirable medium, the apparatus comprising: a first housing configured to receive a solid or gel first substrate; a second housing configured to receive a second substrate, which may be a solid or a gel; a first heater arranged to heat the first substrate in use; a second heater arranged to heat the second substrate in use; a housing defining a flow path including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; Equipped with The flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating a first substrate received in the first housing passes through the second housing to produce a suckable medium.

[0004] In one example, one of the first and second housings is configured to receive a consumable product of a predetermined size including one of the first and second substrates, and the other of the first and second housings is configured to directly receive the other of the first and second substrates. For example, the first housing may be configured to directly receive the first substrate, and the second housing may be configured to receive a consumable product of a predetermined size including the second substrate.

[0005] In one example, a receptacle configured to directly receive a substrate comprises a chamber having an opening accessible by the opening, and a movable member to cover and open the opening. For example, the receptacle may comprise a chamber and a lid for covering a hole formed in the chamber, such that, in use, the substrate is directly received into the chamber through the hole.

[0006] In another example, the first receptacle is configured to receive a consumable of a first predetermined size including a first substrate, and the second receptacle is configured to receive a second consumable of a second predetermined size including a second substrate.

[0007] In one example, the flow path is a first flow path, and the housing further defines a second flow path that includes the first housing but not the second housing. For example, heated products generated by the first substrate in the first housing form an inhalable medium and pass along the second flow path without passing through the second housing. Thus, the first and second flow paths may define separate passages or channels through which the heated products or inhalable medium may travel before being inhaled by a user.

[0008] In one example, the device includes a flow path selector movable between at least a first position where a first flow path is enabled and a second position where a second flow path is enabled, and the movement between at least the first position and the second position can be from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position.

[0009] In one example, the flow path selector comprises a control member actuatable by a user, actuation of the control member causing the flow path selector to move between at least a first position and a second position.

[0010] In one example, the housing includes a first outlet and a second outlet, the first flow path including the first outlet and the second flow path including the second outlet.

[0011] In examples with first and second outlets, each of the first and second flow paths has its own respective outlet.

[0012] In one example, the device further comprises a removable mouthpiece that can be attached to both the first outlet and the second outlet. For example, when the device comprises first and second flow paths with first and second outlets, respectively, the removable mouthpiece can be attachable to either the first or second outlet.

[0013] In an alternative example, the housing includes an outlet and both the first flow path and the second flow path include an outlet.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system, comprising: 1. An apparatus for generating a suction medium, comprising: a first housing configured to receive a solid or gel first substrate; a second housing configured to receive a second substrate, which may be a solid or a gel; a first heater arranged to heat the first substrate in use; a second heater arranged to heat the second substrate in use; a housing defining a flow path including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; Equipped with the flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating a first substrate received in the first housing passes through the second housing to produce a suckable medium; and At least one of the first substrate and the second substrate Equipped with.

[0015] In one example, the system further comprises a removable mouthpiece.

[0016] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of generating a suction medium using an apparatus comprising: a first container containing a first solid or gel substrate; a second container containing a second solid or gel substrate; a first heater arranged to heat the first substrate; a second heater arranged to heat the second substrate; and a housing defining a flow path including the first container and the second container, the method comprising: heating a first substrate with a first heater to produce a heated product; passing the heated product along a flow path through a second container to entrain one or more components from the second substrate with the heated product to create an aspirable medium; Includes.

[0017] In one example, the method further includes heating the second solid substrate using a second heater, for example, the heating step may occur before, during, or after entraining one or more components from the second substrate into the heated product.

[0018] In one example, the method comprises: receiving a consumable product of a predetermined size, the consumable product including one of a first substrate and a second substrate, in one of a first container and a second container; receiving the other of the first substrate and the second substrate directly into the other of the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion; Further includes:

[0019] In one example, directly receiving one of the first substrate and the second substrate into the other of the first housing and the second housing includes moving a member to open an opening of a chamber of the other of the first housing and the second housing, for example, opening a lid of the chamber of the other of the first housing and the second housing. In one example, opening the lid reveals a hole formed in the chamber.

[0020] In one example, the flow path is a first flow path and the housing further defines a second flow path that includes the first housing but does not include the second housing. heating a first substrate with a first heater to generate a drawable medium; passing a suctionable medium along a second flow path; Further includes:

[0021] In one example, the method further includes selecting one of the first flow path and the second flow path as the valid flow path.

[0022] In one example, selecting one of the first flow path and the second flow path includes moving a selection device between at least a first position, in which the first flow path is the active flow path, and a second position, in which the second flow path is the active flow path.

[0023] In one example, moving the selection device includes actuating a control member.

[0024] In one example, the method comprises: passing the suction medium along a first flow path through a first outlet of the housing; Passing the suctionable medium along a second flow path through a second outlet of the housing. The present invention further includes at least one of the following:

[0025] In one example, the method comprises: passing the suction medium along a first flow path through an outlet of the housing; Passing the suctionable medium along a second flow path through the outlet of the housing. The present invention further includes at least one of the following:

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an example of an apparatus for generating a suction medium. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another example of an apparatus for generating a suction medium. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another example of a device for producing a suctionable medium, comprising a mouthpiece; [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another example of an apparatus for generating a suctionable medium, the apparatus comprising first and second flow paths and first and second outlets. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another example of a device for generating a suctionable medium, the device comprising first and second flow paths, first and second outlets, and a mouthpiece; [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another example of an apparatus for generating a suctionable medium, the apparatus comprising first and second flow paths and a single outlet. [Figure 7A] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another example of an apparatus for generating an aspirable medium, the apparatus comprising an active first flow path and a flow path selector disposed in a first position. [Figure 7B] 10 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another example of an apparatus for generating an aspirable medium, the apparatus including an active second flow path and a flow path selector disposed in a second position. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary method for producing a respirable medium, according to one example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] 1, an example of an apparatus 100 for generating an inhalable medium is shown. Generally, a first heater 110 in the apparatus 100 heats a first substrate 104 in a first housing 102 to form a heated product, which passes through a second housing 106 in which a second substrate 108 is disposed, thereby generating an inhalable medium containing one or more components derived from the first substrate 104 and the second substrate 108. A second heater 112 may also be provided to heat the second substrate 108.

[0029] Thus, the device allows the inhalable medium to have one or more flavors that are derived from, for example, both the first substrate 104 and the second substrate 108 placed in the device during use. For example, such a device 100 allows the user of the device to create and control the flavor of the inhalable medium by selecting a particular combination of solid and / or gel substrates.

[0030] In one example, the heating products from the first substrate pass through, around, or combine with the heating products from the second substrate to produce an aromatized inhalable medium. Because the heating products from the first substrate are hot, they heat or further heat the second substrate. By using two heaters 110, 112, a lower temperature can be used for the second heater or the second heater can be operated for a shorter time because the heating products from the first substrate contribute to heating the second substrate.

[0031] The first and second substrates may be solid or gel. In one example, the solid substrate may consist solely of tobacco or may include tobacco. The tobacco product may include loose-leaf tobacco or a consumable product including tobacco. The consumable product may be of a predetermined or specific size, configured, for example, to be placed in a receptacle sized to receive the consumable product. A consumable product of a predetermined size may have a specific volume or dimensions suitable for use with the device. In one example, the consumable product may be tubular in nature and may be known as a "tobacco stick." In some examples, the consumable product may include tobacco formed into a specific shape and then covered or wrapped in one or more other materials, such as paper or foil.

[0032] In another example, the solid substrate may be a flavor bag, which is designed to impart flavor when heated by a heater and / or a heating product passing through and / or around the flavor bag. In some examples, the flavor bag may also contain tobacco and / or nicotine. The flavor bag may be a solid of a predetermined size and may also be known as a consumable. The flavor bag may, for example, contain a flavor-generating material within a porous material.

[0033] The gel may be a solid jelly-like material. The gel may be a Newtonian gel or a non-Newtonian gel. In one example, the gel is a thermoplastic gel. In one example, the gel has a modulus of 0.1 to 100 Ns / m 2 In contrast, e-liquids have a lower viscosity, e.g., 0.1 Ns / m 2 Lower viscosity, e.g., 0.010-0.099 Ns / m 2 Exemplary values ​​for e-liquids include, for example, about 0.02 and about 0.096 Ns / m 2In one example, the gel matrix may include nicotine and / or one or more flavorings. In one particular example, the gel matrix is ​​in the form of a sheet. The gel matrix may be designed to release or impart nicotine and / or flavorings when heated by a heater and / or a heating product passing through or around the gel matrix. Gel matrices may also be sold in predetermined sizes and may be known as consumables.

[0034] 1 , the example device 100 includes a housing 114. The housing 114 has an open end defining an outlet 116. In this example, the second substrate 108 is a solid consumable item that is partially inserted into the outlet 116 for receipt within the second housing 106. In this example, the first substrate 104 is loose-leaf tobacco that can be placed into the first housing 102 by a user, for example, through an opening (not shown) in the housing 114.

[0035] A first heater 110 can be used to heat the first substrate 104, and a second heater 112 can be used to heat the second substrate 108. Thus, the heaters are positioned within a housing to heat the substrates. In this example, the heaters 110, 112 are powered by and electrically connected to a battery (not shown). The heaters 110, 112 can be electrical resistance heaters, including, for example, nichrome resistance heaters, ceramic heaters, etc. The heaters 110, 112 can be, for example, wires that can be in the form of coils or the like, plates (which may be multi-layered plates of two or more different materials, one or more of which may be conductive and one or more of which may be non-conductive), meshes (e.g., woven or non-woven, which may also be multi-layered), film heaters, etc. Other heating configurations, including non-electrical heating configurations, can also be used. 1, the first heater 110 is in the form of a coil, and the second heater 112 is an oven heater in thermal contact with the second substrate 108 to preheat and / or apply heat to the second substrate 108. This facilitates the release of components from the second substrate 108 as the heating products from the first substrate 104 pass through the second substrate 108, in use.

[0036] The first and second receptacles 102 and 106 defined within the housing 114 hold or contain the first and second substrates 104 and 108, respectively. During use, a user can access the receptacles 102 and 106 to replace or replenish the substrates 104 and 108. A variety of different configurations can be used for the receptacles 102 and 106. For example, the receptacles 102 and 106 can be tubes that are fully open at both ends and contain the substrates 104 and 108. As another example, the receptacles 102 and 106 can be tubes or containers with one or more end walls having through-holes through which the heated product can pass. The receptacles 102 and 106 can remain within the housing 114 while a user removes and replaces the substrates 104 and 108. Alternatively, the receptacles 102 and 106 can be separate items that are inserted into and removed from the housing 114 as a whole during use.

[0037] In one example, the receptacle is configured to directly accept the substrate. By accepting the substrate directly into the receptacle, for example, when the substrate is not of a predetermined size or of an indeterminate size, the user can select the amount or volume of the substrate. Examples of such directly accepted substrates include bulk materials, e.g., bulk particulate materials such as loose-leaf tobacco, in which case the user can freely place any desired amount of bulk material into the receptacle. When the receptacle accepts a user-selected amount or volume of substrate, the receptacle or device may be known as an open system. Conversely, when the receptacle accepts a consumable product of a predetermined size, the receptacle or device may be known as a closed system. Thus, one of the first and second receptacles may be a closed system, and the other of the first and second receptacles may be an open system. Thus, an exemplary device may be known as an open-closed hybrid device. Thus, the user is provided with a device that is adaptable for a particular application. The user can purchase a standard consumable product of a predetermined size and controllably combine flavorings with the amount of substrate desired to suit their preferences.

[0038] An example of such a directly accepted substrate includes loose-leaf tobacco, where a user can freely place any desired amount of loose-leaf tobacco within the receptacle. Accordingly, such a receptacle may be configured to accept loose material. The receptacle 102 may include a chamber 120 (such as a box or container) and a member or lid 118 for covering an opening or hole formed in the chamber 120. The substrate 104 can be added by opening the lid 118, exposing the hole and allowing the substrate 104 to be placed directly into the chamber 120 through the hole. While the lid 118 shown in FIG. 1 is hinged to allow access to the chamber 120, it may be movable in any other suitable manner, such as sliding, to cover or open the hole. In another example, the receptacle is a housing 114 that includes a chamber with a hole and a lid. The chamber can be accessed by opening the lid of the housing 114. This configuration allows the user easy access to the receptacle to add or remove substrates. For example, a user may move a member or open a lid to add or remove a substrate from the chamber, hi one example, bulk substrates are received in the chamber in this manner.

[0039] While Figure 1 shows two solid substrates, the substrates may be solid or gel. Accordingly, the first housing 102 is configured to receive a solid substrate or a gel substrate. Accordingly, the first housing 102 is not configured to receive a liquid. Similarly, the second housing 106 is configured to receive a solid substrate or a gel substrate. Accordingly, the second housing 106 is not configured to receive a liquid.

[0040] The housing 114 defines a flow path indicated by arrow 150. The flow path includes the first housing 102 and the second housing 106 such that, in use, heated products produced by heating the first substrate 104 received in the first housing 102 pass through the second housing 106 to produce a suckable medium that exits the housing 114 through the outlet 116. In the example of Figure 1, the suckable medium flows through the outlet 116 while being sucked through the second substrate 108.

[0041] The flow path may further comprise one or more air inlets (not shown) through which air enters the device 100 before entering the first housing 102 .

[0042] In certain examples, the substrates 104, 108 are porous such that the heating products (such as heated gas) pass through the substrates 104, 108. For example, the heating products generated by a first substrate may pass through a second substrate 108 before passing through the outlet 116. In other examples, the substrates 104, 108 are not porous or are only partially porous, and the heating products generated by the substrates 104, 108 mix or combine with other heating products to generate the inhalable medium.

[0043] Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown another example of an apparatus 101 for generating a respirable medium. It will be understood that the configurations, alternatives, etc. described above with respect to the example of Figure 1 are also applicable to the example of Figure 2, as well as other examples described herein.

[0044] 2 shows another example of an apparatus 101 for generating an inhalable medium. Generally, a first heater 111 in the apparatus 101 heats a first substrate 105 in a first housing 103 to form a heated product, which passes through a second housing 107 in which a second substrate 109 is disposed, thereby generating an inhalable medium containing one or more components derived from the first substrate 105 and the second substrate 109. A second heater 113 can also heat the second substrate 109.

[0045] 2, the example device 101 includes a housing 115. The housing 115 has an open end that defines an outlet 117. In this example, the second substrate 109 is a solid consumable item, similar to FIG. 1, but unlike FIG. 1, the consumable item is fully inserted into the housing 115 so as to be received within the second receptacle 107. The second substrate 109 may be received in the second receptacle 107 through an opening (not shown) in the housing 115 or through the outlet 117.

[0046] A first heater 111 can be used to heat the first substrate 105 and a second heater 113 can be used to heat the second substrate 108 .

[0047] The housing 115 defines a flow path indicated by arrow 151. The flow path includes the first housing 103 and the second housing 107 such that, in use, heated products produced by heating the first substrate 105 received in the first housing 103 pass through the second housing 107 to produce a breathable medium that exits the housing through the outlet 117. In the example of Figure 2, the breathable medium flows directly through the outlet 117. The flow path may further include one or more air inlets (not shown), through which air enters the device 100 before entering the first housing 102.

[0048] 3 shows another exemplary device 201. In this example, device 201 is substantially the same as device 101, but includes a mouthpiece 119 attached to the housing adjacent outlet 117. Mouthpiece 119 provides a more ergonomic design for a user to inhale the inhalable medium. In this example, mouthpiece 119 is removable from housing 115 by the user, and an O-ring or other seal helps seal mouthpiece 119 to housing 115. In other examples, mouthpiece 119 is designed to be permanently attached to housing 115.

[0049] FIG. 4 illustrates a device 300 for generating an aspirable medium. Generally, the device 300 includes a housing 314 defining a first flow path (indicated by arrow 350) and a second flow path (indicated by arrow 360). In use, only one of these flow paths may be active at any one time, with the user being able to select or choose which is the active flow path. Selection of the active flow path is discussed in more detail with respect to FIGS. 7A and 7B. In the example of FIG. 4, the housing includes a first outlet 320 and a separate second outlet 318.

[0050] Such a structure, including a first flow path and a second flow path, allows a user to inhale a medium produced by only the first substrate, and thus a medium scented by only the first substrate, if desired. Alternatively, the user can choose to inhale a medium produced by only the second substrate, and thus a medium scented by only the second substrate, if desired. Alternatively, the user can choose to inhale a medium produced by both the first and second substrates, and thus a medium scented by both the first and second substrates, if desired. This exemplary device thus provides the user with greater flexibility when using the device. When the second flow path is active, the second substrate may remain in the second container, eliminating the need for the user to remove the second substrate if the user chooses to heat only the first substrate. This can be particularly useful when the second substrate has been consumed, used up, or completely used but has not yet been removed from the second container for refilling or disposal.

[0051] 4 shows a first heater 310 in the apparatus 300 heating the first substrate 304 in the first housing 302 to form a heated product. When the first flow path 350 is enabled, the heated product generated in the first housing 302 passes through the second housing 306, in which the second substrate 308 is disposed, resulting in an aspirable medium containing one or more components derived from the first substrate 304 and the second substrate 308. The second heater 312 can also heat the second substrate 308. Alternatively, when the second flow path 360 is enabled, the heated product generated in the first housing 302 can pass through the channel or conduit 316 but cannot pass through the second housing 306, resulting in an aspirable medium containing one or more components derived only from the first substrate 304.

[0052] Thus, first flow path 350 includes first housing 302 and second housing 306. Second flow path 360 includes first housing 302 but not second housing 306. The second flow path may include first housing 302 and conduit 316 disposed outside first flow path 350. In the example of Figure 4, first flow path 350 includes first outlet 320 and second flow path 360 includes second outlet 318. Thus, each flow path may have their own separate outlet.

[0053] 4, the second substrate 308 may need to be removed before the user can inhale the inhalable medium. A mouthpiece (not shown) may be attachable to the second outlet 318.

[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative device 301 for generating a respirable medium. Generally, device 301 is substantially similar to device 300 of FIG. 4, except that instead of being configured to receive a second substrate in the form shown in FIG. 4, housing 315 may be configured to fully receive second substrate 309. FIG. 5 includes housing 315, which defines a first flow path (indicated by arrow 351) and a second flow path (indicated by arrow 361). Again, in use, only one of these flow paths may be active at any one time, with the user being able to select or choose which is the active flow path. In the example of FIG. 5, the housing includes first outlet 321 and second outlet 319.

[0055] 5 shows a first heater 311 in the apparatus 301 heating the first substrate 305 in the first housing 303 to form a heated product. When the first flow path 351 is enabled, the heated product generated in the first housing 303 passes through the second housing 307, in which the second substrate 309 is disposed, thereby generating an inhalable medium containing one or more components derived from the first substrate 305 and the second substrate 309. The second heater 313 can also heat the second substrate 309. Alternatively, when the second flow path 361 is enabled, the heated product generated in the first housing 303 passes through the channel or conduit 317 but not through the second housing 307, thereby generating an inhalable medium containing one or more components derived only from the first substrate 305.

[0056] Thus, first flow path 351 includes first housing 303 and second housing 307. Second flow path 361 includes first housing 303 but not second housing 307. The second flow path may include first housing 303 and conduit 317 disposed outside first flow path 351. In the example of Figure 5, first flow path 351 includes first outlet 321 and second flow path 361 includes second outlet 319. Thus, each flow path may have their own separate outlet.

[0057] In the example of Figure 5, a removable mouthpiece 323 that can be attached to device 301 can also be provided, for example, for each of outlets 321, 319. Thus, when second flow path 361 is active, second substrate 309 can remain in place, unlike in Figure 4. Thus, a user can move removable mouthpiece 323 to either outlet 321 or outlet 319, depending on which flow path is active or to be activated.

[0058] In one particular example, the act of removing the tip 323 from the outlet can cause the outlet to automatically close, so that the open hole is not visible. This can stop debris from entering or exiting the flow path. Similarly, the act of attaching the tip to the outlet can automatically open the outlet. In other examples, a user can manually open and close the outlets 321, 319 by removing or placing a stopper on the outlet, or by manually causing a guard to open, close, or cover the outlet.

[0059] Figure 6 shows an alternative device 401 for generating an inhalable medium. Generally, device 401 includes a housing 415 defining a first flow path (indicated by arrow 451) and a second flow path (indicated by arrow 461). In use, only one of these flow paths may be active at any one time, with the user being able to select or choose which is the active flow path. In the example of Figure 6, the housing includes a single outlet 419 and a mouthpiece 421 attached to outlet 419. Device 401 is shown with two separate flow paths that share a single outlet and thus merge to allow heated products to exit through the single outlet.

[0060] 6 shows a first heater 411 in the apparatus 401 heating the first substrate 405 in the first housing 403 to form a heated product. When the first flow path 451 is enabled, the heated product generated in the first housing 403 passes through the second housing 407, in which the second substrate 409 is disposed, thereby generating an inhalable medium containing one or more components derived from the first substrate 405 and the second substrate 409. The second heater 413 can also heat the second substrate 409. Alternatively, when the second flow path 461 is enabled, the heated product generated in the first housing 403 passes through the channel or conduit 417 but not through the second housing 407, thereby generating an inhalable medium containing one or more components derived only from the first substrate 405.

[0061] Thus, the first flow path 451 includes the first housing 403 and the second housing 407. The second flow path 461 includes the first housing 403 but not the second housing 407. The second flow path can include the first housing 403 and a conduit 417 disposed outside the first flow path 451. In the example of FIG. 6, the first flow path 451 includes an outlet 419, and the second flow path 461 also includes an outlet 419. Thus, these flow paths share a single outlet, and the flow paths are arranged to facilitate this. Thus, the housing includes a single outlet shared by both the first and second flow paths. This structure can provide a device that is easier to use, requires less cleaning, and can be more compact than devices with two or more outlets. Thus, in such a device, the first and second flow paths merge before the outlet. 6, conduit 417 is in an inverted "L" shape and merges with first flow path 451 before outlet 419. Thus, portions of the first and second flow paths share a common flow path.

[0062] 7A and 7B illustrate an alternative device 501 for generating an aspirable medium. Device 501 is substantially similar to device 301 of FIG. 5, but further includes a means for selecting one or more flow paths. Generally, device 501 includes a housing 515 defining a first flow path (indicated by arrow 551) and a second flow path (indicated by arrow 561). Again, in use, only one of these flow paths may be active at any one time, and a selection device 523 may be used to select the active flow path. Selection device 523 may include one or more components, such as components 525 and 527 (discussed in more detail below). In exemplary device 501, housing 115 includes first outlet 521 and second outlet 519. This provides a user with a simple and effective means for selecting or choosing at least the first or second flow path when desired.

[0063] 7A and 7B show a first heater 511 in the apparatus 501 heating a first substrate 505 in a first housing 503 to form a heated product. In FIG. 7A, the first flow path 551 is enabled, such that the heated product generated in the first housing 503 passes through a second housing 507 in which a second substrate 509 is disposed, thereby generating an aspirable medium containing one or more components derived from the first substrate 505 and the second substrate 509. The second heater 513 can also heat the second substrate 509. Alternatively, as in FIG. 7B, when the second flow path 561 is enabled, the heated product generated in the first housing 503 passes through a channel or conduit 517 but not through the second housing 507, thereby generating an aspirable medium containing one or more components derived only from the first substrate 505.

[0064] In the exemplary device 501, the first flow path 551 also includes a first outlet 521, and the second flow path 561 also includes a second outlet 519. Thus, each flow path can have its own separate outlet. Thus, if a user selects the second flow path, the user must aspirate the aspirable medium from the second outlet. Separate outlets can simplify the construction. The outlet can be a hole defined by the housing, through which the aspirable medium exits the housing and is aspirated by the user.

[0065] In exemplary device 501, a removable tip that can be attached to device 501 can also be provided, for example, for each of outlets 521, 519. The tip can thus provide an easy way to move between the first and second outlets to prepare the flow path for use, and can provide a lighter, more compact construction as opposed to two separate tip(s). The removable tip(s) may be attached to the housing by, for example, a screw-fit, snap-fit, or friction fit.

[0066] As briefly mentioned above, the device 501 includes a flow path selector 523 that is movable between at least a first position in which a first flow path 551 is active (as in FIG. 7A ) and a second position in which a second flow path 561 is active (as in FIG. 7B ). The flow path selector may include one or more moving parts that open and close areas within the housing to allow aspirable media to flow along the active flow paths.

[0067] In some examples, the flow path selector 523 comprises a user-actuable control member 525, where actuation of the control member moves the flow path selector 523 between at least a first position and a second position. In the example of Figures 7A and 7B, the flow path selector further comprises a slide or slidable member 527, where the slideable member 527 is moved between the first position and the second position as a result of actuation of the control member 525. This provides a user with a means to easily select at least the first or second flow path. The control member may comprise, for example, one or more buttons, one or more switches, or a touch screen.

[0068] 7A, flow path selector 523 is positioned according to a first position. Holes formed in slidable member 527 allow heated products generated by first substrate 505 to pass unimpeded along first flow path 551. In contrast, the non-perforated portion of slidable member 527 restricts heated products from flowing along second flow path 561, so that heated products cannot flow along conduit 517.

[0069] To select second flow path 561, flow path selector 523 can be repositioned to a second position. In the example of FIGS. 7A and 7B, a user can actuate control member 525. For example, the control member can be a button that, when pressed, slides slidable member 527 into housing 515, causing a hole in slidable member 527 to move down conduit 517 and a second, non-perforated portion of the slidable member to cover the entrance to second receiving portion 507. FIG. 7B shows flow path selector 523 positioned according to the second position. Control member 525 is shown partially recessed within housing 515 (however, in other examples, the control member may be biased toward one position regardless of which flow path is active). Similarly, slidable member 527 can be seen moved to another position within the housing. 7B, the holes formed in slidable member 527 allow the heated products generated by first substrate 505 to pass unimpeded along second flow path 561. In contrast, the non-perforated second portion of slidable member 527 restricts the heated products from flowing along first flow path 551, such that the heated products cannot enter second housing 507.

[0070] 7A and 7B illustrate just one exemplary flow path selector device, and other flow path selector devices are contemplated, for example, with more or fewer components or having different configurations within the housing.

[0071] In another alternative, the act of removing or replacing a removable tip (not shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B ) at the outlets 521, 519 may automatically move the flow path selector 523 between at least the first and second positions. Thus, the tip may be the control member, or the removal or replacement of the tip may directly or indirectly actuate the control member. This can provide an easy-to-use method for switching flow paths. For example, all the user needs to do to select the second flow path 561 as the active flow path is to move the tip from the first outlet 521 to the second outlet 519.

[0072] In another alternative, the second housing may be configured to receive a second substrate in the form shown in FIG. 1 (i.e., a consumable configured to be partially inserted into the housing). The act of removing or replacing this form of second substrate from the outlet may automatically move the flow path selector between at least the first and second positions. Thus, the second substrate may be the control member, or removal or replacement of the second substrate may directly or indirectly actuate the control member. This can provide an easy-to-use method for switching flow paths. For example, all a user needs to do to select the second flow path as the active flow path is to remove the second substrate from the first outlet.

[0073] In another alternative, the control member may be a button or switch that electrically moves the slidable member, for example by one or more motors. The control member may be part of a touchscreen user interface integrated into the device, for example.

[0074] In another alternative, actuation of the control member may result in multiple flow dividers within the device opening or closing. Examples of flow dividers may include valves. For example, in the example device 401 of FIG. 6, there may be three valves: a first valve located at the top of the first housing 403 to allow or restrict the flow of heated product along the first flow path 451; a second valve located at the top of the first housing 403 to allow or restrict the flow of heated product along the second flow path 461; and a third valve located at the end of an inverted “L”-shaped conduit to prevent suction medium from flowing into the second flow path 461 when the first flow path 451 is active.

[0075] While Figures 7A and 7B show the second substrate as being fully received within housing 515, it will be understood that the substrate may also take the form shown in Figure 3A. It should be noted that while Figures 3-5 show two flow paths, the exemplary device may include three or more flow paths. Thus, the selection device may be movable between three or more positions to facilitate flow path selection. Furthermore, it will be understood that the flow path selection device may also be incorporated into any of Figures 1-4.

[0076] 8, exemplary steps of a method 600 for producing a respirable medium using an apparatus will be described. The apparatus includes a first container containing a first solid or gel substrate, a second container containing a second solid or gel substrate, a first heater arranged to heat the first substrate, a second heater arranged to heat the second substrate, and a housing defining a flow path containing the first container and the second container.

[0077] In a first step 602, the method includes heating a first substrate with a first heater to generate a heated product. In a second step 604, the method includes passing the heated product along a flow path through a second housing to entrain one or more components from a second substrate with the heated product to generate an aspirable medium.

[0078] The first and second substrates may comprise materials that, when in solid form, provide volatile components upon heating, typically in the form of an aerosol. Suitable materials may include any tobacco-containing material, such as one or more of tobacco itself, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, ground tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenized tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. In the case of tobacco, the material may be in the form of a tobacco rod, tobacco pod or plug, loose tobacco, loaf, or the like, and may be in, for example, a relatively dry or relatively moist form. Suitable materials may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. The non-tobacco product may include a flavor packet.

[0079] The first and second substrates may comprise sheets of gel configured to, when in gel form, provide a volatile component upon heating, typically in the form of an aerosol. The gel-based substrate may or may not contain nicotine.

[0080] To address various challenges and advance the art, this disclosure provides various illustrative embodiments throughout. These embodiments are capable of practicing the claimed invention and provide an improved apparatus configured to generate a suction medium. The advantages and features of the present disclosure are merely representative examples of embodiments and are not intended to be exhaustive or exclusive of all advantages or features. They are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the features disclosed in the claims and elsewhere herein. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure as defined by the claims or equivalents thereof, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. The present disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future. [Item of invention] [Item 1] 1. An apparatus for generating a suction medium, comprising: a first housing configured to receive a solid or gel first substrate; a second housing configured to receive a second substrate, which may be a solid or a gel; a first heater arranged to heat the first substrate in use; a second heater arranged to heat the second substrate in use; a housing defining a flow path including the first housing portion and the second housing portion; Equipped with The flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating the first substrate received in the first housing passes through the second housing to produce the inhalable medium. [Item 2] Item 10. The apparatus of item 1, wherein one of the first storage unit and the second storage unit is configured to receive a consumable product of a predetermined size including one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and the other of the first storage unit and the second storage unit is configured to directly receive the other of the first substrate and the second substrate. [Item 3] a receiving portion configured to directly receive the substrate, a chamber; a member movable to cover or open an opening providing access to said chamber; Item 3. The device according to item 2, comprising: [Item 4] 4. The device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the flow path is a first flow path, and the housing defines a second flow path that includes the first housing portion but does not include the second housing portion. [Item 5] Item 5. The device according to item 4, comprising a flow path selector movable between at least a first position in which the first flow path is enabled and a second position in which the second flow path is enabled. [Item 6] Item 6. The device of item 5, wherein the flow path selector comprises a control member actuatable by a user, and actuation of the control member moves the flow path selector between at least the first position and the second position. [Item 7] 7. The device according to any one of items 4 to 6, wherein the housing comprises a first outlet and a second outlet, the first flow path includes the first outlet, and the second flow path includes the second outlet. [Item 8] 8. The device of claim 7, further comprising a removable mouthpiece that can be attached to both the first outlet and the second outlet. [Item 9] 7. The device according to any one of items 4 to 6, wherein the housing comprises an outlet, and both the first flow path and the second flow path include the outlet. [Item 10] 1. An apparatus for generating a suction medium, comprising: a first housing configured to receive a solid or gel first substrate; a second housing configured to receive a second substrate, which may be a solid or a gel; a first heater arranged to heat the first substrate in use; a second heater arranged to heat the second substrate in use; a housing defining a flow path including the first housing portion and the second housing portion; Equipped with the flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating the first substrate received in the first housing passes through the second housing to produce the inhalable medium; and At least one of the first substrate and the second substrate A system comprising: [Item 11] Item 11. The system of item 10, wherein one of the first storage unit and the second storage unit is configured to receive a consumable product of a predetermined size including one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and the other of the first storage unit and the second storage unit is configured to directly receive the other of the first substrate and the second substrate. [Item 12] a receiving portion configured to directly receive the substrate, a chamber having an opening and accessible by said opening; a member movable to cover or open the opening; Item 12. The system according to item 11, comprising: [Item 13] 13. The system of any one of items 10 to 12, wherein the flow path is a first flow path and the housing defines a second flow path that includes the first housing portion but does not include the second housing portion. [Item 14] Item 14. The system of item 13, wherein the device comprises a flow path selection device movable between at least a first position in which the first flow path is enabled and a second position in which the second flow path is enabled. [Item 15] Item 15. The system of item 14, wherein the flow path selector comprises a control member actuable by a user, and actuation of the control member moves the flow path selector between at least the first position and the second position. [Item 16] 16. The system of any one of items 13 to 15, wherein the housing comprises a first outlet and a second outlet, the first flow path includes the first outlet, and the second flow path includes the second outlet. [Item 17] Item 17. The system of item 16, further comprising a removable mouthpiece that can be attached to both the first outlet and the second outlet. [Item 18] 16. The system of any one of items 13 to 15, wherein the housing comprises an outlet, and both the first flow path and the second flow path include the outlet. [Item 19] 1. A method of producing a suctionable medium using an apparatus comprising: a first container containing a first substrate, said first substrate being solid or gel; a second container containing a second substrate, said second substrate being solid or gel; a first heater arranged to heat said first substrate; a second heater arranged to heat said second substrate; and a housing defining a flow path containing said first container and said second container, comprising: heating the first substrate with the first heater to generate a heated product; passing the heated product along the flow path through the second housing to entrain one or more components from the second substrate with the heated product to form the aspirable medium; A method comprising: [Item 20] 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of heating the second solid substrate using the second heater. [Item 21] receiving a consumable product of a predetermined size, the consumable product including one of the first substrate and the second substrate, into one of the first container and the second container; receiving the other of the first substrate and the second substrate directly into the other of the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion; 21. The method according to item 19 or 20, further comprising: [Item 22] 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the step of directly receiving one of the first substrate and the second substrate into the other of the first housing and the second housing includes moving a member to open an opening of a chamber of the other of the first housing and the second housing. [Item 23] the flow path is a first flow path, and the housing further defines a second flow path that includes the first housing but does not include the second housing; The method comprises: heating the first substrate with the first heater to generate the attractable medium; passing the suction medium along the second flow path; 23. The method according to any one of items 19 to 22, further comprising: [Item 24] 24. The method of claim 23, further comprising the step of selecting one of the first flow path and the second flow path as a valid flow path. [Item 25] 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the step of selecting one of the first flow path and the second flow path includes moving a selection device between at least a first position in which the first flow path is the active flow path and a second position in which the second flow path is the active flow path. [Item 26] Item 26. The method of item 25, wherein the step of moving the selection device comprises the step of actuating a control member. [Item 27] passing the suction medium along the first flow path through a first outlet of the housing; Passing the suctionable medium along the second flow path through a second outlet of the housing. 27. The method according to any one of items 23 to 26, further comprising at least one of the following: [Item 28] passing the suction medium along the first flow path through an outlet of the housing; passing the suctionable medium along the second flow path through the outlet of the housing. 27. The method according to any one of items 23 to 26, further comprising at least one of the following:

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for generating a suction medium, comprising: a first housing configured to receive a first substrate; a second housing configured to receive a second substrate; a heater arranged to heat the first substrate in use; a housing defining a flow path including the first housing portion and the second housing portion; Equipped with the flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating the first substrate received in the first housing portion passes along the flow path; the second housing is configured to receive a consumable product of a predetermined size including the second substrate; The apparatus, wherein the first housing is configured to directly receive the first substrate.

2. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating the first substrate received in the first housing passes through the second housing to produce the inhalable medium.

3. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first substrate is a solid or a gel.

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second substrate is a solid or a gel.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the consumable is tubular.

6. 10. The device of claim 1 or 5, wherein the consumable is a tobacco stick.

7. 1. An apparatus for generating a suction medium, comprising: a first housing configured to receive a first substrate; a second housing configured to receive a second substrate; a heater arranged to heat the first substrate in use; a housing defining a flow path including the first housing portion and the second housing portion; Equipped with the flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating the first substrate received in the first housing portion passes along the flow path; the second housing is configured to receive a consumable product of a predetermined size including the second substrate; an apparatus, wherein the first receiving portion is configured to directly receive the first substrate; and At least one of the first substrate and the second substrate A system comprising:

8. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the flow path is arranged such that, in use, a heated product produced by heating the first substrate received in the first housing passes through the second housing to produce the inhalable medium.

9. The system of claim 7 or 8, wherein the first substrate is a solid or a gel.

10. The system according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the second substrate is a solid or a gel.

11. The system of claim 7 , wherein the consumable is tubular.

12. 12. The system of claim 7 or 11, wherein the consumable comprises a cigarette formed into a shape and covered or wrapped with one or more other materials.

13. The system according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the consumable product is a tobacco stick.

14. a first container including a first substrate, a second container including a second substrate, a heater arranged to heat the first substrate, and a housing defining a flow path including the first container and the second container; the second housing is configured to receive a consumable product of a predetermined size including the second substrate; 1. A method of producing a suctionable medium using an apparatus, wherein the first container is configured to directly receive the first substrate, comprising: heating the first substrate with the heater to produce a heated product; passing the heated product along the flow path to produce the aspirable medium; A method comprising:

15. 15. The method of claim 14, comprising passing the heated product along the flow path through the second housing to entrain one or more components from the second substrate with the heated product to produce the inhalable medium.

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