Article for an aerosol provision device

Abstract

An article (200) for an aerosol provision device (100) is described. The article (200) comprises a substrate (210) being susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field, and an aerosol generating material on the substrate (210), configured to generate aerosol when heated. The substrate (210) comprising surface disruption configuration (220) arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the substrate (210). An aerosol provision device (100) and an aerosol provision system (101) comprising the article (200) and the aerosol provision device (100) is also described.

Description

[0001] ARTICLE FOR AN AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to an article for an aerosol provision device. The present invention also relates to an aerosol provision device, aerosol generator, an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision device comprising an article, and a method of forming an article for an aerosol provision device.

[0004] Background

[0005] Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, the material. The material may be for example tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

[0006] Summary

[0007] According to an aspect, there is provided an article for an aerosol provision device comprising a support being susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field, an aerosol generating material on the support, wherein the support comprises a surface disruption configuration arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the support.

[0008] In an embodiment of any of the above, the at least one surface disruption may at least partially surround the aerosol generating material to affect the eddy currents induced in the support to define a substantially predictable heating pattern.

[0009] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may at least partially overlap the surface disruption configuration.

[0010] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may at least partially cover the surface disruption configuration.

[0011] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may be enclosed by the aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise an indentation in the support.

[0012] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise a feature extending partially through the thickness of the support.

[0013] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may act as an indentation.

[0014] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise scoring.

[0015] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise a cavity.

[0016] In an embodiment of any of the above, the cavity may be a channel.

[0017] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise a feature extending through the thickness of the support.

[0018] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise an aperture.

[0019] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise at least one of a perforation, a break, and a slit.

[0020] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise each of a feature extending partially through the thickness of the support and a feature extending through the thickness of the support.

[0021] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise two or more of a feature extending partially through the thickness of the support and / or a feature extending through the thickness of the support in combination. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may comprise a plurality of aerosol generating material portions.

[0022] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may define the plurality of aerosol generating material portions.

[0023] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may be a layer of aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the layer of aerosol generating material may be unitary.

[0024] In an embodiment of any of the above, the plurality of aerosol generating material portions may be discrete portions.

[0025] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material portions may be spaced from each other.

[0026] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material layer may be a strip.

[0027] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise a plurality of surface disruption regions.

[0028] In an embodiment of any of the above, each surface disruption region may be at least partially bound by a portion of the plurality of aerosol generating material portions.

[0029] In an embodiment of any of the above, at least a portion of one surface disruption region may be between adjacent aerosol generating material portions.

[0030] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise an array of surface disruption regions.

[0031] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may define a border.

[0032] In an embodiment of any of the above, the border defines a heating area within the border and a peripheral area bounding the border, such that, during heating of the heating area, the peripheral area has a temperature lower than the temperature of the heating area.

[0033] In an embodiment of any of the above, the border may be generally circular, quadrilateral or square.

[0034] In an embodiment of any of the above, each of the surface disruption regions may define a border.

[0035] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may be discontinuous. In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may be configured to at least partially contain eddy currents.

[0036] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may at least partially surround an area of aerosol generating material.

[0037] In an embodiment of any of the above, the border may correspond to a discrete area of aerosol generating material.

[0038] In an embodiment of any of the above, the area of aerosol generating material may be rectangular or square. In an embodiment of any of the above, the area of aerosol generating material may be circular or another predefined shape.

[0039] In an embodiment of any of the above, comprising an aerosol generating layer comprising the aerosol generating material.

[0040] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer is a continuous aerosol generating layer.

[0041] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer is a discontinuous aerosol generating layer.

[0042] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration defines a discrete heating region.

[0043] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer comprises a plurality of discrete aerosol generating portions.

[0044] In an embodiment of any of the above, the discrete heating region is one of a plurality of discrete heating region.

[0045] In an embodiment of any of the above, one of the discrete aerosol generating portions is associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of discrete heating regions.

[0046] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer comprises at least one of dots, strips and patches.

[0047] In an embodiment of any of the above, the array of surface disruption portions may comprise an array of perforations, indentations, or slits.

[0048] In an embodiment of any of the above, each surface disruption region is aligned with a corresponding aerosol generating material portion. In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may comprise a first surface disruption configuration and a second surface disruption configuration.

[0049] In an embodiment of any of the above, the second surface disruption configuration may be encircled by the first surface disruption configuration.

[0050] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may comprise a plurality of adjacent surface disruption regions, with an area of aerosol generating material between each surface disruption configuration.

[0051] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support may comprise a support layer.

[0052] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support layer may comprise at least one of a paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material.

[0053] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may be indirectly mounted on the support layer.

[0054] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support may comprise a heating layer.

[0055] In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer may comprise the surface disruption configuration.

[0056] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may be formed in the heating layer.

[0057] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support layer may be free from the surface disruption configuration.

[0058] In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer may comprise the material heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field.

[0059] In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer may be a susceptor layer.

[0060] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support may comprise a foil layer.

[0061] In an embodiment of any of the above, the foil layer may be aluminium foil.

[0062] In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer may be a discontinuous layer. In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer may be a continuous layer.

[0063] In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer may comprise discrete portions of heating material.

[0064] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support comprises an aerosol generating material receiving surface wherein the surface disruption configuration extends from the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0065] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support comprises an aerosol generating material receiving surface wherein the surface disruption configuration extends from a surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0066] In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the surface disruption configuration extends from one of the aerosol generating material receiving surface and the surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0067] In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the surface disruption configuration extending from one of the aerosol generating material receiving surface and the surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface comprises an indentation.

[0068] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface opposes the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0069] In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer defines the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0070] In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating layer defines the surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0071] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may be supported by the support.

[0072] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may be on the heating layer.

[0073] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may be a discontinuous layer of aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may comprise discrete portions of aerosol generating material.

[0074] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may comprise a gel.

[0075] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support may comprise a planar panel.

[0076] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption regions may be evenly spaced around a perimeter of each aerosol generating material portion.

[0077] In an embodiment of any of the above, the plurality of surface disruption regions may be uniformly spaced on the support.

[0078] In an embodiment of any of the above, the support may comprise at least one interstice between adjacent aerosol generating material portions.

[0079] In an embodiment of any of the above, the surface disruption configuration may be disposed in the at least one interstice.

[0080] In an embodiment of any of the above, at least one of an exterior of the article and the support has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width, wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and wherein the width is greater than the depth.

[0081] In an embodiment of any of the above, the article is tubular.

[0082] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising the article of any described above and an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article.

[0083] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article.

[0084] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising the article of any of the embodiments described above.

[0085] In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol provision device may comprise a heating arrangement comprising a plurality of coils, configured to heat the article. In an embodiment of any of the above, the plurality of coils may be configured to selectably heat the article.

[0086] In an embodiment of any of the above, each coil of the plurality of coils may be independently operable.

[0087] In an embodiment of any of the above, the plurality of coils may define a plurality of heating zones.

[0088] In an embodiment of any of the above, each coil of the plurality of coils may define a discrete heating zone of a plurality of heating zones.

[0089] In an embodiment of any of the above, each coil may be configured to correspond to a portion of the aerosol generating material, such that each aerosol generating material portion is heated by a corresponding coil.

[0090] In an embodiment of any of the above, each coil may be configured to align with a corresponding aerosol generating material portion.

[0091] In an embodiment of any of the above, each coil may be a flat planar coil.

[0092] In an embodiment of any of the above, each coil may be configured to act on a flat surface.

[0093] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided a method of forming an article for an aerosol provision device, the article having a support, the method comprising providing a support susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field, providing aerosol generating material on the support, forming a surface disruption configuration on the support arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the support.

[0094] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided a blank for forming an article for an aerosol provision device comprising: a support being susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field; wherein the support comprises a surface disruption configuration arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the support.

[0095] In accordance with an aspect, there is provided an article for an aerosol provision device comprising a support being susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0096] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to accompanying drawings, in which:

[0097] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an aerosol provision system;

[0098] Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 2H and 2I show schematic views of article configurations of the system of Figure 1 ; and

[0099] Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the aerosol provision device of the system of Figure 1.

[0100] Detailed Description

[0101] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and / or flavourants. Aerosol-generating material may include any plant based material, such as tobaccocontaining material and may, for example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Aerosolgenerating material also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol-generating material may for example be in the form of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax or the like. Aerosol-generating material may for example also be a combination or a blend of materials. Aerosolgenerating material may also be known as “smokable material”.

[0102] The material may be present on or in a support, to form a substrate. The support may, for example, be or comprise paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the support comprises a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material.

[0103] The aerosol-generating material may comprise a binder and an aerosol former. Optionally, an active and / or filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, is also present and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosolgenerating material is substantially free from botanical material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco free. The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be an “amorphous solid”. The amorphous solid may be a “monolithic solid”. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosolgenerating material may, for example, comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

[0104] The aerosol-generating material may comprise an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The aerosol-generating sheet or shredded sheet may be substantially tobacco free.

[0105] According to the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0106] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

[0107] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosolgenerating material is not a requirement.

[0108] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0109] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product. Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a noncombustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the noncombustible aerosol provision device.

[0110] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0111] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.

[0112] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol-modifying agent.

[0113] In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosolgenerating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol-modifying agent.

[0114] An aerosol generating device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An “article” in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilise the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol generating device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size that is configured to be placed within a heating chamber of the device which is sized to receive the article.

[0115] Figure 1 shows an aerosol provision system 101 including an aerosol provision device 100 for generating aerosol from an aerosol generating material and a consumable 200. The consumable 200 is an article comprising aerosol generating material. The consumable 200 is shown external to the device 100. The device 100 may be used to heat the replaceable consumable 200 comprising the aerosol generating material, to generate aerosol or other inhalable medium which is inhaled by a user of the device 100. In use, the consumable 200 is inserted into the device 100 for heating.

[0116] The device 100 comprises a body 110. The body 110 surrounds and houses various components of the device 100. The body 110 defines a device housing. An opening 132 is formed in one end of the body 110, through which the consumable 200 may be inserted for heating by an aerosol generator 114 (refer to Figure 3). In use, the consumable may be fully or partially inserted into a heating zone 124 (as shown in Figure 3) where it may be heated by one or more components of the aerosol generator 114. The aerosol generator 114 comprises a heating arrangement 120.

[0117] The device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 111 , such as a button or switch, which operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the switch.

[0118] The end of the device 100 closest to the opening 132 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) 105 of the device 100 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a user inserts a consumable 200 into the opening 132, operates the aerosol generator 114 to begin heating the aerosol generating material, and draws on the aerosol generated in the device 100. This causes aerosol to flow through the consumable 200 along a flow path towards the proximal end 105 of the device 100.

[0119] The other end of the device furthest away from the opening 132 may be known as the distal end 106 of the device 100 because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows in a direction towards the proximal end 105 of the consumable 200. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of the device 100 will be described by reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to each other in a proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis 107.

[0120] The consumable 200 is inserted into and removed from the device 100 through the opening 132. The consumable 200 comprises a support 210 which is susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field. The support 210 may be enclosed inside the consumable 200. Figure 1 shows the consumable in a cut-away view to show the configuration the inside of the consumable 200. The consumable may have a first side 202 and a second side 204. An airflow channel (not shown) is provided between the first and second sides 202, 204 such that the air flows through the consumable 200 from a distal to a proximal end. The consumable comprises a mouthpiece 201 which protrudes from the device 100 when the consumable 200 is inserted into the device 100. The air flows through the consumable 200 and out through the mouthpiece 201.

[0121] An aerosol generating material 230 is disposed on the support 210. The aerosol generating material 230 is disposed on the support on an inward side of the consumable 200. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material 230 is on an outward side. The aerosol generating material 230 may be exposed to the air flowing through the consumable 200. A flow path is defined in the consumable. The aerosol generating material 230 comprises a plurality of aerosol generating material portions 232. The support 210 has a length along the longitudinal axis 107. The length of the support 210 is greater than the width and or thickness of the support 210. The plurality of portions 232 are disposed along a length of the support 210. The proximal end of the consumable 200 may comprise a mouthpiece 201. The proximal end of the consumable 200 may be free from aerosol generating material such that in use, the user may insert a portion of this end into their mouth. The plurality of aerosol generating material portions 232 are evenly spaced from each other on the support 210. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material portions are disposed on only one side of the consumable.

[0122] In embodiments, the support and aerosol generating material may be disposed on the outward side of the consumable. The consumable may be inserted entirely into the device. The airflow path may be external to the consumable. The device may comprise a mouthpiece on the device.

[0123] The support 210 comprises a flat strip. The support 210 comprises a foil. The consumable 200 may be substantially flat.

[0124] The support 210 comprises a heating layer and a support layer. The support layer acts as a support. The support layer may be omitted. The support layer 210 may define at least part of a body of the consumable. The support layer is electrically insulative. The support layer comprises at least one of a paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material. The heating layer comprises the surface disruption configuration. The support layer in embodiments is free from the surface disruption configuration. That is, for example, the surface disruption configuration does not extend into the support layer.

[0125] The heating layer comprises the material heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. The heating layer acts as a susceptor layer. The heating layer comprises a foil layer. The aerosol generating material is configured as an aerosol generating layer. In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is in direct contact with the resistive heating layer. In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer is in indirect contact with the resistive heating layer. In embodiments, the heating layer and the support layer define a substrate. In embodiments, a laminate is defined comprising the resistive heating layer and the support layer. In embodiments, the laminate comprises the aerosol generating layer.

[0126] The heating element is formed by at least one of: cutting said heating layer; chemically etching said heating layer; forming or pressing the heating layer in the substrate; and printing said heating layer. Other configurations of forming are anticipated.

[0127] The receptacle 130 is shaped to receive the consumable. The opening 132 comprises a slot which receives the substantially flat consumable. In embodiments, the opening and / or the receptacle may have the same cross-sectional shape as the consumable. The aerosol generating material portions 232 are flat. In other embodiments, the consumable may be a different shape. In embodiments, the consumable may have at least one flat or arcuate side. The support may provide structural support to the consumable. In embodiments, the consumable may be one of square, rectangular, lens shaped, or oval in cross section. In embodiments, the opening has the same cross sectional shape as the consumable.

[0128] The support 210 comprises a surface disruption configuration 220. The surface disruption configuration 220 is disposed on or in the support and comprises a plurality of surface disruption regions 222. The surface disruption configuration 220 affects the eddy currents induced in the support 210 to provide a predictable heating pattern. Each region of the plurality of surface disruption regions 222 borders or surrounds a portion of aerosol generating material 232.

[0129] In embodiments, the aerosol surface disruption regions have different shapes and configurations (shown in Figs 2A to 2I). The surface disruption region 222 forms a border 234 around the portion of aerosol generating material 232 to disrupt eddy current and ensure the entire area of the portion of aerosol generating material 232 is heated. The heating pattern for each coil 122 may comprise the same shape as its corresponding aerosol generating portion 232. The surface disruption region 222 is a perforated border 234 around the portion of aerosol generating material. The perforated border is a plurality of discontinuous apertures through the support 210. In embodiments, the surface disruption configuration 220 may comprise a feature that extends partially through the thickness of the support 210, such as scoring, a cavity or a channel. Such a configuration acts as an indentation. In embodiments, the surface disruption configuration 220 may comprise a feature that extends entirely through the thickness of the support 210, such as an aperture, perforation, break or a slit.

[0130] The support comprises an aerosol generating material receiving surface. The aerosol generating material is received on the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0131] The surface disruption configuration 220 extends from the aerosol generating material receiving surface. In embodiments, the surface disruption configuration 220 extends from a surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface. This surface may be an opposing surface of the support. This surface may be an opposing surface of the support. The surface disruption configuration 220 in embodiments extends from one of the aerosol generating material receiving surface and the surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface, for example when the surface disruption configuration 220 comprises an indentation. The surface disruption configuration 220 in embodiments extends in the heating layer. In such an embodiment, the heating layer defines the aerosol generating material receiving surface and the surface different than the aerosol generating material receiving surface.

[0132] The aerosol generating material portions 232 are generally rectangular. The border 224 is generally rectangular to surround the aerosol generating material portions 232. In embodiments, the border and its respective portion of aerosol generating material are circular. The border may differ in shape from the portion of aerosol generating material. In embodiments, the surface disruption region and its corresponding aerosol generating portion are the same shape but different sizes. Each portion of aerosol generating material 222 has a corresponding border 234 or surface disruption region 232. In embodiments, the number of surface disruption regions does not correspond to the number of aerosol generating portions.

[0133] Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 2H and 21 show different surface disruption configurations 320, 420, 520, 620, 720, 820, 920, 1020, 1120 and aerosol generating material 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930, 1030, 1130. Figure 2A shows the surface disruption configuration 320 comprising perforated borders around the aerosol generating material portions 330. The perforations comprise small apertures that pass entirely through the thickness of the support. Figure 2B shows the surface disruption configuration region 420 comprising scored border around the aerosol generating material portions 430. The scoring does not pass entirely through the support 210b. Figure 2C shows the perforated border surface disruption configuration region 520 being oval or circular in shape. The aerosol generating material portions 530 are rectangular.

[0134] The aerosol generating material portions 530 may be the same shape as the surface disruption configuration region 520. The aerosol generating material portions 530 may be different shapes from the surface disruption configuration regions 520. Figure 2D shows the surface disruption configuration region 620 comprising a channel between the aerosol generating material portions 630. The portions of aerosol generating material 630 may be rectangular, have rounded corners, or be another shape such as circular. Figure 2E shows the aerosol generating material portions 730 being a square shape with rounded corners. The surface disruption configuration region 720 comprises a plurality of slits between the aerosol generating material portions 730. The slits pass entirely through the thickness of the support. Figure 2F shows the aerosol generating material 830 comprising a continuous strip. The surface disruption configuration region 820 comprises a matrix of perforations through the support. The aerosol generating material 830 is disposed over the surface disruption configuration regions 820. Figure 2G shows a surface disruption configuration region 920 being disposed only between the aerosol generating material portions 930. The surface disruption configuration regions do not surround the aerosol generating material portions 930.

[0135] Figures 2H and 2I shows embodiments in which the aerosol generating material 1030, 1130 is disposed over the surface disruption configuration regions 1020, 1120. Figures 2H and 2I show surface disruption configurations 1020, 1120 comprising a plurality of perforations. In Figure 2H the surface disruption configuration regions 1020 are configured in a cross configuration. The configuration comprises two intersecting lines. In Figure 21 the surface disruption configuration regions 1020 are configured in a square configuration. Other configurations are envisaged, such as a plurality of nonintersecting lines, which may be for example linear or arcuate, and other shapes such as another quadrilateral, circular, triangular or oval.

[0136] In embodiments, the surface disruption configuration regions may comprise a plurality of slits, channels, or scoring that may extend partially through the thickness of the support. The aerosol generating material 1030, 1130 is disposed to overlap the respective surface disruption configuration regions 1020, 1120. The aerosol generating material 1030, 1130 covers the extent of the respective surface disruption configuration regions 1020, 1120. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material may only partially cover the surface disruption configuration regions, such that the surface disruption extends past the edges of respective each aerosol generating material portion. The arrangement of the surface disruption configuration regions being under the aerosol generating material helps to provide for a more even temperature throughout the susceptor and reduce hotspots on the aerosol generating material. The surface disruption configuration in embodiments may aid to focus the flux lines and / or distribute the flux lines.

[0137] Figure 3 shows the heating arrangement 120 of the aerosol provision device 100. The heating arrangement 120 comprises a plurality of coils 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, 122e, 122f, 122g, 122h, 122i, 122j. Each coil 122 defines a heating zone 124 which is heated by its respective coil 122. In use, the consumable 200 is inserted through the opening 132 into the receptacle 130 of the device 100. On insertion of the consumable 200 into the receptacle 130, each portion of aerosol generating material 232 is located in a heating zone 124 corresponding to a coil 122. Each coil 122 heats a single portion of aerosol generating material 232. For example, a heating zone is defined by coil 122a which heats aerosol generating material portion 232a. The coils 122 are located either side of the receptacle 130.

[0138] The aerosol generating material portions 232 are disposed on the inside of both sides 202, 204 of the consumable 200. The surface disruption configuration regions 222 each surround a portion of aerosol generating material 232 in the heating zone 124 disrupting the eddy currents induced in the support 210. The disruption of the eddy currents in the support 210 allows area of the portion of aerosol generating material 232 that is heated to be controlled. The shape of each surface disruption configuration region 222 ensures the whole area of each portion of aerosol generating material 232 is heated entirely when its corresponding coil 122 is activated. The coils 122 may be independently operable to heat each portion of aerosol generating material 232 individually. The surface disruption configuration regions 222 prevent eddy currents being induced in the support outside of the border 224 or defined area. This allows the aerosol generating material portions to be placed closer together without being heated by a coil in an adjacent heating zone. The surface disruption configuration regions ensure that all of the aerosol generating material in the portions of aerosol generating material is heated.

[0139] The border 224 defines a heating area defined within the border 224. A peripheral area is defined bounding the border 224, such that, during heating of the heating area, the peripheral area has a temperature lower than the temperature of the heating area.

[0140] In use, the air flows through the consumable 200 and passes over the aerosol generating material portions 232. Each aerosol generating material portion is heated by its own coil 122 to release the aerosol generating material 230 into the airflow path through the consumable 200.

[0141] An electronics assembly 112 is in the body 110. The electronics assembly 112 comprises a power source. The power source may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, a lithium battery (such as a lithium-ion battery), a nickel battery (such as a nickel-cadmium battery), and an alkaline battery. The battery is electrically coupled to the heating arrangement 120 to supply electrical power when required and under control of a controller to heat the aerosol generating material. The electronics assembly 112 comprises an electronics module. The electronics module may comprise a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The PCBA may comprise, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB) that supports at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB may also comprise one or more electrical tracks to electrically connect together various electronic components. The battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100. The heating arrangement 120 is connected to the electronics assembly.

[0142] As described herein the article forms part of a system with an aerosol provision device. In embodiments, an aerosol provision device comprises the article. The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An article for an aerosol provision device comprising: a support being susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field; an aerosol generating material on the support; wherein the support comprises a surface disruption configuration arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the support.

2. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one surface disruption at least partially surrounds the aerosol generating material to affect the eddy currents induced in the support to obtain a substantially predictable heating pattern.

3. The article of claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating material at least partially overlaps the surface disruption configuration.

4. The article of claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating material at least partially covers the surface disruption configuration.

5. The article of claim 1, wherein the surface disruption configuration is enclosed by the aerosol generating material.

6. The article of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the surface disruption configuration comprises an indentation in the substrate.

7. The article of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the surface disruption configuration comprises a feature extending partially through the thickness of the substrate.

8. The article of claim 7, wherein the feature extending partially through the thickness comprises at least one of scoring, a cavity, and a channel.

9. The article of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the surface disruption configuration comprises a feature extending through the thickness of the substrate.

10. The article of claim 9, the feature extending through the thickness of the substrate comprises at least one of an aperture, a perforation, a break, and a slit.

11. The article of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the surface disruption configuration defines a plurality of aerosol generating material portions.

12. The article of any of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the surface disruption configuration comprises a plurality of surface disruption regions.

13. The article of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the surface disruption configuration defines a border.

14. The article of claim 13, wherein the border defines a heating area defined within the border and a peripheral area bounding the border, such that, during heating of the heating area, the peripheral area has a temperature lower than the temperature of the heating area.

15. The article of claim 13 or 14, wherein the border at least partially bounds an open area of aerosol generating material.

16. The article of any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the surface disruption configuration is discontinuous.

17. The article of claim 12, wherein at least a portion of one surface disruption region is between adjacent aerosol generating material portions.

18. The article of claim 12, wherein each surface disruption region is aligned with a corresponding aerosol generating material portion.

19. The article of any of claims 1 to 18, comprising a first surface disruption configuration and a second surface disruption configuration.

20. The article of any of claims 1 to 19, wherein the support comprises a heating layer susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field.

21. The article of claim 20, wherein the heating layer comprises a surface disruption configuration arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the support.

22. An aerosol provision system comprising an article according to any of claims 1 to 21 and an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article.

23. An aerosol provision device comprising the article of any of claims 1 to 21.

24. A method of forming an article for an aerosol provision device, the article having a substrate, the method comprising: providing a substrate susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field, providing aerosol generating material on the substrate, forming a surface disruption configuration on the substrate arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the substrate.

25. A blank for forming an article for an aerosol provision device comprising: a support being susceptible to eddy currents being induced therein by penetration with a varying magnetic field; wherein the support comprises a surface disruption configuration arranged to affect a flow of eddy currents in at least a portion of the support.

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