Aerosol delivery subsystems and methods

Abstract

An aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator and a carrier for delivering aerosol-generating material from a reservoir to the aerosol generator in use, wherein at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier is configured to move relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier, to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator.

Description

[0001] AEROSOL DELIVERY SUBSYSTEMS AND METHODS

[0002] Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems such as, but not exclusively, nicotine delivery systems (e.g. e-cigarettes).

[0004] Background

[0005] Aerosol delivery systems such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) generally contain an aerosol generating material, such as a chamber of a source solid or liquid, which may contain an active substance and / or a flavour, from which an aerosol or vapour is generated for inhalation by a user, for example through heat vaporisation. Thus, an aerosol delivery system will typically comprise an aerosol generation area containing an aerosol generator, e.g. a heating element, arranged to vaporise or aerosolise a portion of precursor material to generate a vapour or aerosol in the aerosol generation area. As a user inhales on the device and electrical power is supplied to the vaporiser, air is drawn into the device through an inlet hole and along an inlet air channel connecting to the aerosol generation area, where the air mixes with vaporised precursor material to form a condensation aerosol. There is an outlet channel connecting the aerosol generation area to an outlet in the mouthpiece and the air drawn into the aerosol generation area as a user inhales on the mouthpiece continues along the outlet flow path to the mouthpiece outlet, carrying the aerosol with it, for inhalation by the user. Some electronic cigarettes may also include a flavour element in the air flow path through the device to impart additional flavours. Such devices may sometimes be referred to as hybrid devices, and the flavour element may, for example, include a portion of tobacco arranged in the air flow path between the aerosol generation area and the mouthpiece such that aerosol I condensation aerosol drawn through the device passes through the portion of tobacco before exiting the mouthpiece for user inhalation.

[0006] Existing aerosol generators include wick and coil heaters and porous ceramic heaters, but these may have limited longevity because they may become clogged with aerosol-generating material or ‘e- liquid’ and cannot readily be cleaned. It is of interest to develop longer-lasting aerosol generators and systems incorporating them.

[0007] Various approaches are described herein which seek to help address or mitigate at least some of the issues discussed above.

[0008] Brief summary of the invention

[0009] The present invention provides an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator and a carrier for delivering aerosol-generating material from a reservoir to the aerosol generator in use, wherein at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier is configured to move relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier, to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator.

[0010] The present invention further provides a cartridge for an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator, the cartridge comprising a reservoir of aerosol-generating material and a spray or drip delivery mechanism, wherein, in use, the delivery mechanism is configured to spray or drip aerosol-generating material onto the aerosol generator, for generating aerosol.

[0011] The present invention further provides an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator and a spray or drip delivery mechanism, wherein the delivery mechanism is configured to spray or drip aerosol-generating material from a reservoir onto the aerosol generator, for generating aerosol.

[0012] The present invention further provides corresponding functional means and further provides additional embodiments as claimed in the dependent claims.

[0013] Brief description of the figures

[0014] Embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-section view of an aerosol delivery system in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0016] Figures 2-18 are schematic cross-section views of aerosol delivery subsystems in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure.

[0017] Detailed description of the disclosure

[0018] Aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be implemented conventionally and these are not described in detail in the interest of brevity. It will thus be appreciated that aspects and features of apparatuses and methods discussed herein which are not described in detail may be implemented in accordance with any suitable conventional techniques.

[0019] The claimed invention generally provides a sub-assembly or sub-system suitable for use in an aerosol delivery system, or configured for use in an aerosol delivery system. The sub-system may generally form part of an aerosol delivery system and in particular may form part of the reusable device and / or the cartridge of a two-part system. Introduction

[0020] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view through an example aerosol delivery system 1 in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure, providing an introduction to two-part aerosol delivery systems, the components therein and their functionality.

[0021] The aerosol delivery system 1 comprises two main parts, namely a reusable part 2 and a replaceable I disposable consumable cartridge part 4. In normal use, the reusable part 2 and the cartridge part 4 are releasably coupled together at an interface 6. When the cartridge part 4 is exhausted or the user simply wishes to switch to a different cartridge part 4, the cartridge part 4 may be removed from the reusable part 2 and may be refillable, or a replacement cartridge part 4 attached to the reusable part 2 in its place. The interface 6 provides a structural, electrical and airflow path connection between the two parts 2, 4 and may be established in accordance with conventional techniques, for example based around a screw thread, magnetic or bayonet fixing with appropriately arranged electrical contacts and openings for establishing the electrical connection and airflow path between the two parts 2, 4 as appropriate. The specific manner by which the cartridge part 4 mechanically mounts to the reusable part 2 is not significant to the principles described herein, but for the sake of a concrete example is assumed here to comprise a magnetic coupling (not represented in figure 1). It will also be appreciated the interface 6 in some implementations may not support an electrical and I or airflow path connection between the respective parts 2, 4. For example, in some implementations an aerosol generator may be provided in the reusable part 2 rather than in the cartridge part 4, or the transfer of electrical power from the reusable part 2 to the cartridge part 4 may be wireless (e.g. based on electromagnetic induction), so that an electrical connection between the reusable part 2 and the cartridge part 4 is not needed. Furthermore, in some implementations the airflow through the electronic cigarette might not go through the reusable part 2, so that an airflow path connection between the reusable part 2 and the cartridge part 4 is not needed. In some instances, a portion of the airflow path may be defined at the interface between portions of the reusable part 2 and cartridge part 4 when these are coupled together for use.

[0022] The cartridge I consumable part 4 may, in certain embodiments, be broadly conventional. In figure 1 , the cartridge part 4 comprises a cartridge housing 42 formed of a plastics material. The cartridge housing 42 supports other components of the cartridge part 4 and provides the mechanical interface 6 with the reusable part 2. The cartridge housing 42 is generally circularly symmetrical about a longitudinal axis along which the cartridge part 4 couples to the reusable part 2. In this example, the cartridge part 4 has a length of around 4 cm and a diameter of around 1 .5 cm. However, the specific geometry and the overall shapes and materials used may vary.

[0023] Within the cartridge housing 42 is a chamber or reservoir 44 that contains aerosol-generating material. In the example of figure 1 , the reservoir 44 stores a supply of liquid aerosol generating material. In this example, the liquid reservoir 44 has an annular shape with an outer wall defined by the cartridge housing 42 and an inner wall that defines an airflow path 52 through the cartridge part 4. The reservoir 44 is closed at each end with end walls to contain the aerosol generating material. The reservoir 44 may be formed in accordance with conventional techniques, for example it may comprise a plastics material and be integrally moulded with the cartridge housing 42.

[0024] The cartridge I consumable part 4 further comprises an aerosol generator 48 located towards an end of the reservoir 44 opposite to a mouthpiece outlet 50. It will be appreciated that in a two-part system such as shown in figure 1 , the aerosol generator 48 may be in either of the reusable part 2 or the cartridge part 4. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator 48 (e.g. a heater, which may be in the form of a wick and coil arrangement as shown, a distiller, which may be formed from a sintered metal fibre material or other porous conducting material, or any suitable alternative aerosol generator 48 such as those disclosed herein) may be comprised in the reusable part 2, and is brought into proximity with a portion of aerosol generating material in the cartridge part 4 when the cartridge part 4 is engaged with the reusable part 2. In such embodiments, the cartridge part 4 may comprise a portion of aerosol generating material, and an aerosol generator 48 comprising a heater is at least partially inserted into or at least partially surrounds the portion of aerosol generating material as the cartridge part 4 is engaged with the reusable part 2.

[0025] A carrier 46 is used to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir 44 to the aerosol generator 48 in use. In the example of figure 1 , a carrier wick 46 is in contact with the aerosol generator 48 extends transversely across the cartridge airflow path 52 with its ends extending into the reservoir 44 of the liquid aerosol generating material through openings in the inner wall of the reservoir 44. The openings in the inner wall of the reservoir 44 are sized to broadly match the dimensions of the carrier 46 to provide a reasonable seal against leakage from the liquid reservoir 44 into the cartridge airflow path without unduly compressing the carrier 46, which may be detrimental to its fluid transfer performance. Other carriers 46 may be used instead of a wick, as discussed further below.

[0026] The carrier 46 and aerosol generator 48 are arranged in the cartridge airflow path 52 such that a region of the cartridge airflow path 52 around the carrier 46 and heater 48 in effect defines a vaporisation region for the cartridge part 4. Aerosol generating material in the reservoir 44 infiltrates the carrier 46 through the ends of the wick extending into the reservoir 44 and is drawn along the wick by surface tension I capillary action (i.e. wicking). The aerosol generator 48 in this example comprises an electrically resistive wire coiled around the carrier 46. In figure 1 , the heater 48 comprises a nickel chrome alloy (Cr20Ni80) wire and the carrier 46 comprises a glass fibre bundle, but the specific aerosol generator configuration is not significant to the principles described herein. In use, electrical power may be supplied to the aerosol generator 48 to vaporise an amount of aerosol generating material (aerosol generating material) drawn to the vicinity of the aerosol generator 48 by the carrier 46. Vaporised aerosol generating material may then become entrained in air drawn along the cartridge airflow path from the vaporisation region towards the mouthpiece outlet 50 for user inhalation.

[0027] As noted above, the rate at which aerosol generating material is vaporised by the aerosol generator 48 will depend on the amount (level) of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48. Thus electrical power can be applied to the aerosol generator 48 to selectively generate aerosol from the aerosol generating material in the cartridge part 4, and furthermore, the rate of aerosol generation can be changed by changing the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48, for example through pulse width and / or frequency modulation techniques.

[0028] The reusable part 2 comprises an outer housing 12 having with an opening that defines an air inlet 28 for the e-cigarette, a power source 26 (e.g. a battery) for providing operating power for the electronic cigarette, control circuitry I controller 22 for controlling and monitoring the operation of the electronic cigarette, a first user input button 14, a second user input button 16, and a visual display 24.

[0029] The outer housing 12 may be formed, for example, from a plastics or metallic material and in this example has a circular cross section generally conforming to the shape and size of the cartridge part 4 so as to provide a smooth transition between the two parts 2, 4 at the interface 6. In this example, the reusable part 2 has a length of around 8 cm so the overall length of the e-cigarette when the cartridge part 4 and the reusable part 2 are coupled together is around 12 cm.

[0030] The air inlet 28 connects to an airflow path 51 through the reusable part 2. The reusable part airflow path 51 in turn connects to the cartridge airflow path 52 across the interface 6 when the reusable part 2 and cartridge part 4 are connected together. Thus, when a user inhales on the mouthpiece opening 50, air is drawn in through the air inlet 28, along the reusable part airflow path 51 , across the interface 6, through the aerosol generation area in the vicinity of the aerosol generator 48 (where vaporised aerosol generating material becomes entrained in the air flow), along the cartridge airflow path 52, and out through the mouthpiece opening 50 for user inhalation.

[0031] The power source 26 in this example is rechargeable and may be of a conventional type, for example of the kind normally used in electronic cigarettes and other applications requiring provision of relatively high currents over relatively short periods. The power source 26 may be recharged through a charging connector in the reusable part housing 12, for example a USB connector.

[0032] Optionally, first and / or second user input buttons 14, 16 may be provided, which in this example are conventional mechanical buttons, for example comprising a spring mounted component which may be pressed by a user to establish an electrical contact. In this regard, the input buttons may be considered input devices for detecting user input and the specific manner in which the buttons are implemented is not significant. The buttons may be assigned to functions such as switching the aerosol delivery system 1 on and off, and adjusting user settings such as a power to be supplied from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48.

[0033] A display 24 may be provided to give a user with a visual indication of various characteristics associated with the aerosol delivery system, for example current power setting information, remaining power source power, and so forth. The display may be implemented in various ways. In this example the display 24 comprises a conventional pixilated LCD screen that may be driven to display the desired information in accordance with conventional techniques. In other implementations, the display may comprise one or more discrete indicators, for example LEDs, that are arranged to display the desired information, for example through particular colours and I or flash sequences. More generally, the manner in which the display 24 is provided and information is displayed to a user using the display is not significant to the principles described herein. For example, some embodiments may not include a visual display and / or may include other means for providing a user with information relating to operating characteristics of the aerosol delivery system, for example using audio signalling, or may not include any means for providing a user with information relating to operating characteristics of the aerosol delivery system.

[0034] A controller 22 is suitably configured I programmed to control the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1 to provide functionality as described herein, as well as for providing conventional operating functions of the aerosol delivery system 1 . The controller (processor circuitry) 22 may be considered to logically comprise various sub-units I circuitry elements associated with different aspects of the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1. In this example the controller 22 comprises power supply control circuitry for controlling the supply of power from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48 in response to user input, user programming circuitry 20 for establishing configuration settings (e.g. user-defined power settings) in response to user input, as well as other functional units I circuitry associated functionality in accordance with the principles described herein and conventional operating aspects of electronic cigarettes, such as display driving circuitry and user input detection circuitry. The functionality of the controller 22 can be provided in various different ways, for example using one or more suitably programmed programmable computer(s) and I or one or more suitably configured application-specific integrated circuit(s) I circuitry I chip(s) I chipset(s).

[0035] The controller 22 may comprise an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or microcontroller, for controlling the aerosol delivery device. The microcontroller or ASIC may include a CPU or microprocessor. The operations of a CPU and other electronic components are generally controlled at least in part by software programs running on the CPU (or other component). Such software programs may be stored in non-volatile memory, such as ROM, which can be integrated into the microcontroller itself, or provided as a separate component. The CPU may access the ROM to load and execute individual software programs as and when required. The reusable part 2 comprises an airflow sensor 30 which is electrically connected to the controller 22. In most embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 comprises a so-called “puff sensor”, in that the airflow sensor 30 is used to detect when a user is puffing on the device. In some embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 comprises a switch in an electrical path providing electrical power from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48. In such embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 generally comprises a pressure sensor configured to close the switch when subjected to a particular range of pressures, enabling current to flow from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48 once the pressure in the vicinity of the airflow sensor 30 drops below a threshold value. The threshold value can be set to a value determined by experimentation to correspond to a characteristic value associated with the initiation of a user puff. In other embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 is connected to the controller 22, and the controller distributes electrical power from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48 in dependence of a signal received from the airflow sensor 30 by the controller 22. The specific manner in which the signal output from the airflow sensor 30 (which may comprise a measure of capacitance, resistance or other characteristic of the airflow sensor, made by the controller 22) is used by the controller 22 to control the supply of power from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48 can be carried out in accordance with any approach known to the skilled person.

[0036] In the example shown in figure 1 , the airflow sensor 30 is mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) 31 , but this is not essential. The airflow sensor 30 may comprise any sensor which is configured to determine a characteristic of airflow in an airflow path 51 disposed between air inlet 28 and mouthpiece opening 50, for example a pressure sensor or transducer (for example a membrane or solid-state pressure sensor), a combined temperature and pressure sensor, or a microphone (for example an electret-type microphone), which is sensitive to changes in air pressure, including acoustical signals. The airflow sensor 30 is situated within a sensor cavity or chamber 32, which comprises the interior space defined by one or more chamber walls 34. The sensor cavity 32 comprises a region internal to one or more chamber walls 34 in which an airflow sensor 30 can be fully or partially situated. In some embodiments, the PCB 31 comprises one of the chamber walls of a sensor housing comprising the sensor chamber I cavity 32.

[0037] A deformable membrane is disposed across an opening communicating between the sensor cavity 32 containing the sensor 30, and a portion of the airflow path disposed between air inlet 28 and mouthpiece opening 50. The deformable membrane covers the opening, and is attached to one or more of the chamber walls according to approaches described further herein.

[0038] As described further herein, the aerosol delivery system 1 comprises communication circuitry configured to enable a connection to be established with one or more further electronic devices (for example, a storage I charging case, and / or a refill I charging dock) to enable data transfer between the aerosol delivery system 1 and further electronic device(s). In some embodiments, the communication circuitry is integrated into controller 22, and in others it is implemented separately. For example, the communication circuitry may comprise a separate module to the controller 22 which, while connected to controller 22, provides dedicated data transfer functionality for the aerosol delivery device. In some embodiments, the communication circuitry is configured to support communication between the aerosol delivery system 1 and one or more further electronic devices over a wireless interface. The communication circuitry may be configured to support wireless communications between the aerosol delivery system 1 and other electronic devices such as a case, a dock, a computing device such as a smartphone or PC, a base station supporting cellular communications, a relay node providing an onward connection to a base station, a wearable device, or any other portable or fixed device which supports wireless communications.

[0039] The controller 22, other components within the system 1 and other devices / systems may comprise one or more processors and data processing steps may be performed on any of these processors or on a remote processor, the data communicated by wire or wirelessly.

[0040] Wireless communications between the aerosol delivery system 1 and a further electronic device may be configured according to data transfer protocols such as Bluetooth®, ZigBee, WiFi®, Wifi Direct, GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, NFC, RFID, or generally any other wireless, and / or wired, network protocol or interface. The communication circuitry may comprise any suitable interface for wired data connection, such as USB-C, micro-USB or Thunderbolt interfaces, and may comprise pin or contact pad arrangements configured to engage cooperating pins or contact pads on a dock, case, cable, or other external device which can be connected to the aerosol delivery system 1 .

[0041] Relative movement aerosol generator and carrier subsystems

[0042] A first set of embodiments relate to an aerosol delivery subsystem for use in an aerosol delivery system, the subsystem comprising an aerosol generator 48 and a carrier 46 for delivering aerosolgenerating material from a reservoir 44 to the aerosol generator 48 in use, wherein at least one of the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 is configured to move relative to the other of the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46, to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir 44 to the aerosol generator 48. Embodiments may comprise multiple aerosol generators 48 and / or multiple carriers 46, in some examples advantageously engaging multiple sides / faces of one or multiple aerosol generators 48 and / or carriers 46.

[0043] The aerosol generator 48 itself may take any form, such as a thin-film heater etched or printed on to a surface. In some examples, the carrier 46 comprises a wick as in figure 1 , whilst in other examples the carrier comprises a capillary tube, a valve, an aperture, a slit and / or a flexible and resilient material. In some examples, the carrier 46 is configured to move or deform on contact with the aerosol generator 48, to deposit aerosol-generating material from the reservoir 44 onto the aerosol generator 48. The carrier 46 interfaces between the aerosol generator 48 and the reservoir 44 for delivering liquid from the reservoir 44 to the aerosol generator 48, thus the carrier 46 is effectively an aerosol-generating material delivery mechanism. . In some examples, the carrier 46 forms a spray or drip delivery mechanism.

[0044] In contrast to static aerosol generator-and-carrier subsystems, such as wick and coil arrangements, embodiments of the disclosure involve relative movement of the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 with respect to one another in use, i.e. the aerosol generator 48 is movable with respect to the carrier 46 and / or the carrier 46 is movable with respect to the aerosol generator 48. This movement is generally to resupply the aerosol generator 48 with aerosol-generating material and / or to provide an air flow path past the aerosol generator 48 to entrain the generated vapour, to form aerosol. The relative movement can be controlled to suit the characteristics of the system and may be disabled when the device is off / locked.

[0045] In particular, the relative movement may comprise: a) movement into and out of contact between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46; and / or b) movement of the aerosol generator 48 and / or the carrier 46 into and out of an air flow path through the aerosol delivery system 1 .

[0046] Furthermore, the relative movement may comprise movement into and out of contact on multiple different surfaces of the carrier 46 and / or the aerosol generator 48, particularly with multiple carriers 46 and / or multiple aerosol generators 48.

[0047] The nature of the movement may take any form, such as linear and / or rotational movement, including movement on a prescribed path. The mechanism for providing the movement may be of any suitable form. Particular examples include electromagnetic mechanisms (such as solenoids) and vibration mechanisms, both of which are compact, controllable and power efficient. Providing pulsed movement is beneficial because it simplifies the system and minimises bulk and / or power consumption.

[0048] In some examples, the movement may be configured to: a) eject aerosol generating material from the reservoir 44 onto the aerosol generator 48; and / or b) eject aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 48.

[0049] The movement may deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir 44 to the aerosol generator, ready for vapourisation. Advantageously, the relative movement may allow the aerosol generator 48 to be substantially non-porous I non-permeable, in contrast to static aerosol generator- and-carrier arrangements which require a porous / permeable aerosol generator 48 to allow the aerosol-generating material to pass therethrough. A non-porous I non-permeable aerosol generator 48 advantageously comprises no pores which can become clogged in use, allowing easier cleaning and increased longevity and durability. Nevertheless, whilst the aerosol generator 48 may be non- permeable to the aerosol-generating material and therefore the aerosol-generating material does not penetrate into the aerosol generator 48 itself, the aerosol generator 48 may comprise one or more through-apertures to allow air to pass through (e.g. from one side of the aerosol generator 48 to another) to mix with the vapour generated, to produce aerosol.

[0050] The aerosol delivery system 1 with which the aerosol generator-and-carrier subsystem is used may be a one-part system or a two-part system comprising a reusable device 2 that is configured to receive one or more replaceable cartridges 4 containing aerosol-generating material. Some systems

[0051] 1 may comprise multiple reservoirs 44 in one single or multiple separate cartridges 4. The system 1 may comprise an air flow path through the device 2 and / or the cartridge 4. The system 1 may comprise a mouthpiece for the user, e.g. on the reusable device 2 or on the cartridge 4.

[0052] The aerosol delivery system 1 may comprise an actuator or actuator mechanism 60 configured to actuate the movement of the aerosol generator 48 and / or the carrier 46, which may effect delivery of aerosol-generating material from the reservoir 44 to the aerosol generator 48. In two-part systems, the actuator may beneficially be housed within the reusable device 2. Some actuation I delivery mechanisms 60 require two complementary parts e.g. an active I powered element (such as an inductive coil) and a passive element (such as an armature), or a reusable element and a consumable element, where the active or reusable element may beneficially be housed within the reusable device

[0053] 2 and the passive I consumable (wearing / fatiguing) element in the removable cartridge 4, to minimise environmental impact and costs. The actuator or delivery mechanism 60 (or a part thereof) may beneficially be part of or integrated into the aerosol generator 48 to provide a compact assembly, where the aerosol generator 48 may be housed in the reusable device 2 or the removable cartridge 4. Although cartridges in two-part systems are typically disposable, they may instead be removable and refillable, providing increased flexibility for changing the experience, but with the convenience and lower cost of refillability.

[0054] Various particular embodiments are now described, each having one or more key features. Each key feature is contemplated individually / independently, in isolation from the other features, and in any combination with other features disclosed herein.

[0055] Figures 2a-2d illustrate a first set of examples of aerosol delivery systems 1 wherein at least one of the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 is configured to move relative to the other, with substantially linear movement.

[0056] In figure 2a, the system 1 comprises the aerosol generator 48 within the device 2 and a mouthpiece at outlet 50 on the device 2, where the air flow path 51 is through the device 2, and not through the cartridge 4. Beneficially, this reduces the consumable components in the cartridge part 4.

[0057] Key features illustrated in figure 2a include: • the system 1 comprises the aerosol generator 48 within the device 2 and a mouthpiece at outlet 50 of the device 2;

[0058] • the airflow path 51 passes through the device 2 and the (vertical) aerosol generator 48 is translatable linearly (horizontally) across (into and out of) the airflow path 51 , perpendicular to the airflow path 51 , with at least one face of the aerosol generator 48 coming into and out of contact with the carrier 46, the carrier 46 depositing aerosol-generating material on the aerosol generator 48 on contact;

[0059] • when in contact with the carrier 46, the aerosol generator 48 might obstruct the air flow path 51 , but when not in contact with the carrier 46, the face(s) of the aerosol generator 48 coming into and out of contact with the carrier 46 is exposed to the airflow path 51 , to allow vapour generation into the airflow path 51 ; and

[0060] • the cartridge 4 might be a side- or top-loaded cartridge 4 and might be conventional, e.g. the carrier 46 may comprise a standard wick.

[0061] Figures 2b and 2c illustrates a variant of figure 2a, where the relative movement between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 functions in the same way, but the profile of the system 1 differs. In figures 2b and 2c, key features in contrast to figure 2a (the other features being the same) include:

[0062] • the cartridge 4 instead of the device 2 comprises the mouthpiece (which may thus be replaced with the cartridge 4, increasing hygiene);

[0063] • the cartridge 4 has a stepped profile; and

[0064] • the air flow path comprises a first part 51 through the device 2 and a second part 52 through the cartridge 4.

[0065] In figure 2c, the system profile is narrower than that of figure 2b, but may be longer to provide the same internal volume to accommodate the reusable components such as the power supply 26 and controller 22.

[0066] Figure 2d illustrates a variant of figure 2c, comprising multiple carriers 46, which may be provided by two separate cartridges 4 or a single cartridge 4. In figure 2d, key features in contrast to figure 2c (the other features being the same) include:

[0067] • the air flow path comprises a first part 51 through opposing sides of the device 2 and a second (central) part 52 through the cartridge(s) 4;

[0068] • the cartridge 4 comprises two opposing (vertical) carriers 46, one on either side of the air flow path 52 through the cartridge 4; and

[0069] • the (vertical) aerosol generator 48 may be part of the device 2 or cartridge 4 and is translatable linearly (horizontally) in the airflow path 51 , 52, where opposing (vertical) faces of the aerosol generator 48 translate into and out of contact with the opposing carriers 46. The carriers 46 deposit aerosol-generating material on different (opposing) faces of the aerosol generator 48 and allow air flow past the other, non-contacting side of the aerosol generator 48 at the same time. Generally, systems comprising multiple carriers 46 may provide better flowrates and better evacuation of the reservoir, and / or can utilise multiple reservoirs 44, e.g. comprising different aerosol-generating materials in single or multiple cartridges 4.

[0070] Furthermore, systems utilising multiple faces of one or more carriers 46 may generally:

[0071] • increase operational surface area so allow for a more compact carrier 46;

[0072] • increase longevity / lifespan of the carrier 46 due to reduced use and potentially cool-down between faces being heated; and

[0073] • provide smoother aerosol generation.

[0074] Similarly, systems utilising multiple aerosol generators 48 and / or multiple faces of the aerosol generators) 48 may generally:

[0075] • increase operational surface area so allow for a more compact aerosol generator 48;

[0076] • increase longevity / lifespan of the aerosol generator due to reduced use and potentially cooldown between faces being heated; and

[0077] • provide smoother aerosol generation.

[0078] As shown in figures 2e and 2f, further variants are contemplated, including:

[0079] • an alternative arrangement as per figure 2e, in which the aerosol generator 48 is translatable vertically into and out of contact with the carrier 46 and equally into and out of the airflow path 51 , e.g. entering from a side of the system 1 (in the cartridge 4 or device 2, as in figure 2d);

[0080] • an alternative arrangement as per figure 2f, in which a first (horizontal) aerosol generator 48a is translatable horizontally into and out of the airflow path along the sides of the carrier 46, where the aerosol generator 48a translates beyond the sides of the carrier 46 into the airflow path and / or a second (vertical) aerosol generator 48b translatable vertically into and out of a horizontal airflow path. Multiple aerosol generators 48a, 48b may be provided in a single system, effecting vapour delivery into the same single airflow path or multiple different airflow paths. The aerosol generator(s) 48 may comprise through-apertures to provide air flow to entrain the vapour and produce aerosol; and

[0081] • inverse arrangements of any of the examples, where the carrier 46 moves with respect to the aerosol generator 48 instead of the aerosol generator 48 moving with respect to the carrier 46.

[0082] Figures 2g and 2h illustrate how the relative movement between the carrier 46 and the aerosol generator 48 may deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir 44 to the aerosol generator 48. As illustrated, the movement into and out of contact between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 may deposit a droplet of liquid aerosol-generating material on the aerosol generator 48 due to surface tension (figure 2g) and / or gravity (figure 2h). In some examples, the relative movement of the aerosol generator 48 into contact with the carrier 46 compresses the carrier end profile, which may act as a plunger, deforming the carrier 46 to open a valve or aperture / slit to deposit the droplet of aerosol-generating material in a controllable manner. The aperture / slit may be suitably sized to deposit an appropriate or prescribed amount of aerosol-generating material for the aerosol generator 48 in use. The aerosol generator 48 may have a surface feature (e.g. protrusion) or finish (e.g. roughness) configured to deform the carrier 46 to controllably deposit a prescribed amount of aerosolgenerating material.

[0083] In some examples, the carrier 46 is configured to deposit aerosol-generating material onto the aerosol generator 48 under / aided by the influence of gravity, as shown in figure 2h. During puffing, the user will typically hold the system extending lengthways away from the mouth at an angle of 10-80° to vertical, and hence systems in which the reservoir 44 1 carrier 46 are vertically above the aerosol generator 48 in an upright / vertical orientation, as depicted in figure 2h, beneficially aid the delivery of aerosol-generating material onto the aerosol generator 48 under the influence of gravity.

[0084] Generally, the carrier 46 may comprise an existing carrier material such as a wick, particularly for gravity-fed delivery as shown in figure 2h. In other systems, other carrier materials may be used, including flexible and resilient materials that deform but readily return to their original shape, such as silicone. Silicone is further beneficial over traditional cotton wicks since silicone is heat-resistant.

[0085] Figures 3-5 illustrate particular example implementations for how the relative movement between the aerosol generator and the carrier may be effected.

[0086] Figure 3 illustrates an actuator mechanism 60 configured to provide the relative movement between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 in the form of an electromagnetic mechanism functioning akin to a solid state solenoid, providing a compact and reliable relative movement mechanism with few moving parts. Key features illustrated in figure 3 include:

[0087] • the mechanism 60 comprises three parts: an electromagnetically inductive coil 60a, an armature 60b and a biasing element 60c, which may beneficially all be housed in the device 2, or one or more parts may be house in the cartridge 4;

[0088] • the coil 60a may be a PCB coil, here configured to repel the armature 60b toward the carrier 46 when activated (powered), where the armature 60b is connected to the aerosol generator 48 to form a shuttle (which may be a floating shuttle), where the armature 60b moves the aerosol generator 48 into contact with the carrier 46 to deposit aerosol-generating material thereon; and

[0089] • the carrier 46 is biased away from the aerosol generator 48 by two biasing elements 60c, so that when the coil 60a is inactive, the aerosol generator 48 is not contacting the carrier 46, allowing air flow between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46.

[0090] Other variants are also contemplated and discussed in further examples below, particularly wherein: • the default inactive / no power position is the aerosol generator 48 contacting the carrier 46, which may beneficially minimise the risk of leakage, i.e. where the aerosol generator 48 is biased into contact with the carrier 46 by the biasing element 60c and the coil 60a, when powered, moves the aerosol generator 48 away from being in contact with the carrier 46; and / or

[0091] • the coil 60a is configured to attract (instead of repel) the armature 60b (and thereby the aerosol generator 48) and hence the armature 60b (and thereby the aerosol generator 48) is biased away from the coil 60a.

[0092] Figure 4 illustrates an electromagnetic mechanism 60 in which the coil 60a is configured to attract (instead of repel) the armature 60b (and thereby the aerosol generator 48). Key features illustrated in figure 4 include:

[0093] • the aerosol generator 48 and coil 60a are both contained in the device 2, optionally combined I integrated into a housing or an over-moulded shuttle unit;

[0094] • the air flow path comprises a first part 51 through opposing sides of the device 2 and a second part 52 through the centre of the cartridge 4; and

[0095] • the cartridge 4 comprises the reservoir 44, the carrier 46 and a metal plate armature 60b, where the coil 60a is configured to attract the metal plate armature 60b when powered, overcoming the biasing elements 60c which are configured to bias the aerosol generator 48 away from the carrier 46 and the armature 60b.

[0096] As in figure 3, in figure 4 the cartridge 4 is biased away from the shuttle unit by biasing elements 60c, so that when the coil 60a is inactive, the aerosol generator 48 is not contacting the carrier 46, allowing air flow between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46. However, in figure 4, when active, the coil 60a attracts the metal plate armature 60b in the cartridge 4, overcoming the biasing elements 60c to make contact between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46. The biasing elements 60c may beneficially be contained in the device 2, or in the cartridge 4.

[0097] Figure 5 illustrates another electromagnetic mechanism 60 in which the coil 60a is configured to attract (instead of repel) the armature 60b (and thereby the aerosol generator 48), similar to figure 4. Key differing features illustrated in figure 5 include:

[0098] • the coil 60a is integrated into (nested behind or stacked with) the aerosol generator 48 to provide a more compact arrangement; and

[0099] • the carrier 46 comprises capillary tubes 47 (here between the liquid reservoir 44 and the end of the carrier 46 contacting the aerosol generator 48), to provide improved flow control by way of capillary action drawing liquid into the carrier 46 from the reservoir 44.

[0100] Figures 3-5 detail various examples utilising an electromagnetic mechanism 60 to effect the relative movement between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46. In further examples, any other mechanism may be used, such as a motor or micro motor (e.g. with a cam-driven arrangement), pressure or heat mechanism wherein the movement of the aerosol generator 48 and / or the carrier 46 is responsive to a change in temperature, pressure and / or electromagnetic force.

[0101] Figure 6 illustrates puff-actuated (pressure-based) movement of the aerosol generator 48 with respect to the carrier 46. In the default (inactive) position, the carrier 46 is in contact with the aerosol generator 48. In use, during puffing, when a user draws (inhales) on the system 1 , the aerosol generator 48 is actuated (drawn) away from the carrier 46, against a biasing element, to allow air flow between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46, entraining the generated vapour into the air to form aerosol. In some examples, the system 1 comprises a pressure relief passage or valve, wherein as the aerosol generator 48 passes the relief passage I valve, the pressure is relieved and so the aerosol generator 48 returns to the carrier 46 under the force of the biasing element. This simple mechanism beneficially makes use of the pressure differential provided by the user’s puffing, and this force may be supplemented by other mechanisms such as the electromagnetic mechanisms detailed above, particularly with a coil 60a configured to assist separating the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46.

[0102] In further examples, the aerosol generator 48 and / or the carrier 46 is / are bi-stable, e.g. having two over-dead-centre positions. In some examples, the aerosol generator 48 moves with respect to a static carrier 46, vice versa, or both the aerosol generator 48 and carrier 46 are movable. In some examples, the aerosol generator 48 and / or the carrier 46 has two stable positions, where positions in between the stable positions are unstable, ideally biasing the aerosol generator 48 and / or the carrier 46 into one of the stable positions.

[0103] Figure 7 illustrates a bi-stable aerosol generator 48, where movement between the two stable states / positions may be triggered or controlled for example by pressure (e.g. air flow, vacuum pressure, as in figure 6), heat and / or electromagnetism, e.g. as outlined above. The bi-stable aerosol generator 48 effectively may ‘flip’ between over centre positions. Movement between the states may be operable to move the aerosol generator 48 into and out of contact with the carrier 46.

[0104] Figures 8-12 illustrate examples of aerosol delivery systems 1 wherein at least one of the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 is configured to move relative to the other with rotational movement. The rotational movement may generally comprise any arc / locus of movement, including continuous rotation and oscillation between a predetermined number of set points.

[0105] Figure 8a illustrates the same system as figure 2d, but with rotational relative movement instead of linear relative movement. Figure 8b illustrates the arrangement of figure 8a in more detail, having the same air flow path parts 51 , 52 and two opposing carriers 46, one on either side of the air flow path 52 through the cartridge(s) 4, as figure 2d. However, in figures 8a-b, the aerosol generator 48 is configured to rotate relative to the carriers 46. As shown in figure 8b, the aerosol generator 48 may be fixed eccentrically on a pivot and configured to rotate into and out of contact with the carriers 46, preferably exposing multiple different faces of the aerosol generator 48 to the carriers 46. This is however merely one implementation and any rotational movement, e.g. about any axis, is envisaged. The carriers 46 may provide aerosol-generating material from the same single or multiple reservoirs 44, which may be contained in one or more cartridges 4.

[0106] Figure 8c illustrates a top-down cross-sectional view of another rotational movement implementation. Key features of this figure 8c example include:

[0107] • one or more central (cylindrical) reservoirs) 44 containing aerosol-generating material;

[0108] • one or more carriers 46 (circumferentially) spaced around the central reservoir 44; and

[0109] • one or more (annular) aerosol generators 48 (circumferentially) spaced around the carriers 46;

[0110] • air flow paths 52 through the cartridge 4 to entrain vapour; and

[0111] • relative rotational movement between any two or more of: the reservoirs) 44, the carrier(s) 46 and the aerosol generator(s) 48, particularly including arrangements comprising multiple carriers 46 and aerosol generators 48 wherein: o each carrier 46 is fixed to and rotates with the central reservoir 44 to ‘wipe’ across static radial aerosol generators 48 (as shown), the wiping action providing selfcleaning functionality; or o the reservoir 44 is static and the aerosol generators 48 and / or the carriers 46 rotate relative to the reservoir 44 (i.e. including inversing the above).

[0112] The latter arrangement comprising a fixed reservoir 44 provides a simpler arrangement for the replaceable cartridge 4 as well as the benefits of using multiple aerosol generators 48, which include permitting the timing of power supply to each aerosol generator 48 to be adjusted to provide smoother and more consistent vapour production. The example of figure 8c also provides a substantial surface area at multiple different (radial) positions for vapour generation. For the avoidance of doubt, whilst the shapes and positioning of the various components in figure 8c are indicated in parentheses above, these particular shapes and relative positions are not essential and any other shapes and relative positions may be used.

[0113] Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another rotational movement implementation. Key features of this example include:

[0114] • the reservoir 44 feeds a carrier 46 (e.g. comprising wick) which is in contact with one or more (radial) aerosol generators 48 on a rotatable driven shaft - in this example, the axis of rotation is vertical, about the gravity (y) axis;

[0115] • in the orientation shown, the feed of aerosol-generating material to the aerosol generator(s) 48 is under the influence of gravity, so the carrier 46 beneficially may not require a wick to assist in controlling fluid flow (but nevertheless may comprise a wick in some examples);

[0116] • the aerosol generator(s) 48 rotate into and out of contact with the carrier 46 to receive aerosol-generating material (e.g. ‘wiping’ the carrier 46); and the aerosol generator(s) 48 rotate into and out of air flow path 51 through the device 2, which entrains the generated vapour.

[0117] Beneficially, this arrangement provides a simple delivery mechanism which may be operable with conventional cartridges 4. Furthermore, the rotational speed may be adjustable to alter aerosol delivery and the ‘wiping’ nature of the contact between the carrier 46 and the aerosol generators) 48 may effectively provide a self-cleaning function.

[0118] Figure 10 illustrates a cross-section view of another rotational movement implementation. Key features and benefits of this example include those above for figure 9, wherein here:

[0119] • the rotation is in a different plane - in this figure 10 example, the axis of rotation is horizontal, about the z axis, perpendicular to the gravity (y) axis; and

[0120] • the motion of the aerosol generator(s) 48 may be used to eject aerosol into the air flow path 51 through the system 1 , beneficially aiding to drive air / vapour flow through the system 1 .

[0121] Figure 11 illustrates a cross-section view of another rotational movement implementation. Key features of this example include:

[0122] • the reservoir 44 feeds a rotating centrifugal central carrier 46 which supplies one or more (radial) aerosol generators 48 via a rotatable driven shaft - in this example, the axis of rotation is horizontal, about the z axis;

[0123] • the carrier 46 beneficially may not require a wick to assist in controlling fluid flow, which is supplied by gravity and centrifugal force (arising from the rotation of the carrier 46) to the aerosol generator(s) 48 (but nevertheless may comprise a wick in some examples); and

[0124] • the motion of the carrier 46 1 aerosol generators) 48 may be used to eject aerosol into the air flow path through the system 1 .

[0125] Again, the rotational speed may be adjustable to alter aerosol delivery and may also help drive air flow through the system 1 .

[0126] Figure 12 illustrates a cross-section view of another rotational movement implementation. Key features of this example include:

[0127] • the system comprises one or multiple reservoirs 44, which may contain different aerosolgenerating materials in one or more cartridges 4;

[0128] • the reservoirs) 44 comprise a carrier 46 configured to deliver aerosol-generating material to one or more aerosol generator(s) 48; and

[0129] • the aerosol generator(s) 48 are positioned on a (central) pivoting arm which is configured to pivot or oscillate against the carriers 46, providing rotational motion into and out of contact between the aerosol generator(s) 48 and their respective carriers 46, alternately. Beneficially, this arrangement allows for different aerosol-generating materials and / or alternating aerosol generating material delivery, thus multiple aerosol generators 48 can be powered in turn, to provide smoother and more consistent vapour production. Furthermore, the pivoting speed may be adjustable to alter aerosol delivery.

[0130] Figure 13 illustrates a cross-section view of another relative movement implementation, where the movement comprises movement of one or more aerosol generators 48 on a prescribed path with respect to one or more carriers 46 (as shown) or vice versa. Key features of this example include:

[0131] • one or multiple aerosol generators 48 are configured to move on a prescribed path, e.g. on a belt or chain drive, both into and out of contact with the carrier 46 and into and out of the air flow path 51 ; and

[0132] • the aerosol generators 48 are activated when proximal to the air flow path 51 , to generate vapour that is entrained into the air flow path 51 and may cool down before collecting more aerosol-generating material.

[0133] Similar to other examples, the movement speed may be adjustable to alter aerosol delivery.

[0134] Figure 14 illustrates a cross-section view of a vibrating arrangement, functioning similar to a motorised toothbrush. Key features of this example include:

[0135] • a vibration mechanism 60 comprising a motor 60a is connected to an amplification arm 60b and configured to provide relative movement between the aerosol generator 48 and the carrier 46 - in figure 14, the aerosol generator 48 is connected to the amplification arm so that the aerosol generator 48 moves (substantially vertically) relative to the (static) carrier 46, but the inverse relative movement arrangement is also contemplated instead or in addition (i.e. including movement of both the carrier 46 and the aerosol generator 48);

[0136] • the relative movement may permit air flow between the carrier 46 and the aerosol generator 48; and

[0137] • the motor 60a may comprise an eccentric mass or pancake vibration motor to provide suitable motion, utilising the natural frequency of the system 1 .

[0138] Beneficially, this example implements a relatively simple mechanism that can be implemented with minimal control logic, with a default ‘off’ position being non-contact.

[0139] Other contactless delivery mechanisms

[0140] A second set of embodiments relate to cartridges for aerosol delivery systems, and more generally aerosol delivery systems, comprising a reservoir of aerosol-generating material and a spray or drip delivery mechanism (as a particular form of carrier). Such a delivery mechanism is particularly, but not exclusively, suitable for aerosol generators which are non-porous I non-permeable to the aerosolgenerating material. For example, rather than aerosol-generating material being delivered from a reservoir by capillary action and passing to a permeable heater in use, the delivery mechanism is configured to spray or drip aerosol-generating material onto the aerosol generator, for generating aerosol. Some embodiments may comprise another carrier (e.g. in the form of a wick) as in the earlier examples above, whilst spray or drip delivery mechanisms do not require direct contact with the aerosol generator.

[0141] In some examples, the delivery mechanism comprises a pressurised reservoir 44 of aerosolgenerating material, such as an inflatable or compressible reservoir. In one particular example, the reservoir 44 is configured to be compressed in use by a biasing element. In two-part systems, the reusable device part 2 or the replaceable cartridge part 4 may comprise the delivery mechanism. Some delivery mechanisms require two complementary parts e.g. an active I powered element (such as an inductive coil) and a passive element (such as an armature), or a re-usable element and a consumable element, where the active or reusable element may beneficially be housed within the reusable device part 2 and the passive I consumable element in the removable cartridge part 4.

[0142] In some examples, the delivery mechanism comprises a flexible and resilient material, wherein the material is configured to move or deform to spray or drip aerosol-generating material on to the aerosol generator 48. In particular, the flexible and resilient material may comprise a valve, a nozzle, an aperture, a slit and / or silicone material.

[0143] In further examples, the delivery mechanism may comprise:

[0144] • an electromagnetic mechanism; and / or

[0145] • a vibrating mechanism; and / or

[0146] • a venturi tube; and / or

[0147] • a pump or a micropump such as a piston, plunger, diaphragm and / or peristaltic pump. In particular, the pump may comprise a micro dosing pump, such as a membrane / piston dosing pump or other injector / sprayer means, to provide controllable, precise delivery.

[0148] In yet further examples, the aerosol-generating material is electrostatically charged and / or the system 1 / cartridge 4 comprises an electrostatic charge generator configured to electrostatically charge the aerosol generating material. In some examples, the system 1 / cartridge 4 comprises a heater configured to preheat the delivery mechanism; and / or a deflector configured to deflect flow from the delivery mechanism onto the aerosol generator 48.

[0149] Various particular embodiments are now described, each having one or more key features. Each key feature is contemplated individually / independently, in isolation from the other features, and in any combination with other features disclosed herein.

[0150] Figure 15 illustrates a cross-section view of a rotational spray delivery mechanism 146, where the one or more aerosol generators 48 are static. Key features of this example include: • the reservoir 44 feeds a dispenser 146 comprising a rotatable driven shaft, where the centrifugal force in rotation delivers (propels / sprays) aerosol-generating material to one or more static (radial or annular) aerosol generator(s) 48 - the reservoir 44 and cartridge 4 may be static or rotatable with the shaft;

[0151] • the air flow path 52 through the cartridge 4 passes around the reservoir 44, whilst air may flow through the spray dispenser 146 as shown;

[0152] • in the orientation shown, the feed of aerosol-generating material to the aerosol generator(s) 48 is under the influence of gravity, so the rotating dispenser 146 beneficially may not require a carrier 46 such as a wick to assist in controlling fluid flow to the dispenser 146 (but nevertheless may comprise a carrier 46 in some examples);

[0153] • there is no contact between the dispenser 146 and the aerosol generator 48, i.e. this rotating delivery mechanism is contactless.

[0154] Beneficially, this contactless arrangement permits both the aerosol generator(s) 48 and the cartridge 4 I reservoir 44 to be static, where the dispenser 146 is configured to rotate relative to the aerosol generator 48. The rotational speed may be adjusted to provide a suitable delivery rate.

[0155] Figure 16 illustrates a cross-section view of a venturi pump I spray delivery mechanism 146, functioning similar to a carburettor. Key features of this example include:

[0156] • the system 1 comprises an air flow path 51 through a venturi tube 146, the tube 146 having an inflow / inlet in the narrowing throat section for receiving aerosol-generating material from the reservoir 44;

[0157] • in use, the user inhales on the system 1 , which draws air along the air flow path 51 and draws aerosol-generating material into the air flow path 51 at the throat section - optionally, the user draw may be supplemented or replaced by a pump, to provide more control over the air flow rate (since a user’s inhalation pressure may vary); and

[0158] • the outlet of the venturi tube 146 is directed at the aerosol generator 48, which receives aerosol-generating material suspended in the air flow, and is configured to vapourise the aerosol-generating material.

[0159] Beneficially, this arrangement is relatively simple, with no moving parts. The arrangement also provides for entraining multiple different aerosol-generating materials into the air flow path 51 . Optionally, the venturi tube 146 and / or the aerosol-generating material may be preheated, e.g. at the reservoir 44 or in the venturi tube 146, which may thus comprise one or more heaters, to commence vaporisation earlier - this reduces the need for heating by the aerosol generator 48 and reduces the risk of delivering liquid rather than vapour to the user. Pre-heating using supplementary heaters may equally be applied to any other examples disclosed herein. Equally, in any examples, the system 1 may also comprise one or more deflectors for guiding the aerosol-generating material onto the aerosol generator 48 and / or for guiding the vapour / aerosol to the user via the mouthpiece. Figure 17 illustrates a cross-section view of a pressurised reservoir spray delivery mechanism 146. Key features of this example include:

[0160] • the system 1 comprises an electromagnetic spray delivery mechanism 146, the mechanism 146 comprising an actuator coil 146a in the device 2 or cartridge 4 and a shuttle valve 146b (e.g. comprising piezo crystal) in the reservoir 44 of the cartridge 4;

[0161] • the reservoir 44 is pressurised, such as during manufacture (e.g. pressurised with inert gas), or by a biasing element 64 exerting pressure on a compressible reservoir 44; and

[0162] • the device 2 comprises the aerosol generator 48 and an air flow path 51 and is configured to actuate the coil 146a to move (e.g. retract) the shuttle valve 146b to spray the pressurised onto the aerosol generator 48.

[0163] Beneficially, this mechanism is relatively simple and compact, and can be pulsed to control the deposition amount onto the aerosol generator 48.

[0164] Figure 18 illustrates another electromagnetic spray delivery mechanism 146. Key features of this example include:

[0165] • in a first, simple embodiment, the aerosol-generating material and / or the aerosol generator 48 is / are electrostatically pre-charged and the charged aerosol-generating material may drip on the aerosol generator 48, which may be oppositely charged to attract the charged aerosolgenerating material;

[0166] • in some examples, the aerosol-generating material is delivered from the reservoir 44 in a manner similar to a rail gun, comprising two rails with a ‘projectile’ (the aerosol-generating material) between, where current is passed down one rail and back along the other rail, creating a magnetic field. The (charged) aerosol-generating material is perpendicular to the magnetic field so experiences a Lorentz force, spraying the aerosol-generating material out of the reservoir 44; and

[0167] • in some examples, the aerosol-generating material and / or aerosol generator 48 are precharged, whilst in others, they are charged in use, e.g. using a charge roller or corona wire, as used in laser printers.

[0168] Beneficially, this arrangement may have no moving parts and provide a relatively simple construction.

[0169] As outlined above, other spray or drip delivery mechanisms include a nozzle, a plunger, a pump or a micropump such as a piston, plunger, diaphragm and / or peristaltic pump. In further embodiments, multiple nozzles, plungers or pumps may be used to spray drops of aerosol-generating material onto the aerosol generator 48 in the same way that an inkjet printer operates.

[0170] 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. Any functions of a processor (e.g. controller) may be shared between processors on the various devices / systems in the wider system and / or a remote server. 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.

[0171] 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. Protection may also be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more published documents referenced herein in combination with the present disclosure.

[0172] Terminology

[0173] Delivery System

[0174] As used herein, the term “delivery system” is intended to encompass systems that deliver at least one substance to a user in use, and includes: combustible aerosol provision systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for roll-your-own or for make-your-own cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smokable material); non-combustible aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosolgenerating material without combusting the aerosol-generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosolgenerating materials; and aerosol-free delivery systems that deliver the at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.

[0175] Combustible Aerosol Provision System

[0176] According to the present disclosure, a “combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is combusted or burned during use in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user. In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of a cigarette, a cigarillo and a cigar. In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a filter, a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, a spill, an aerosol-modifying agent release component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead, or a paper such as a plug wrap, a tipping paper or a cigarette paper.

[0177] Non-Combustible Aerosol Provision System

[0178] 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.

[0179] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system. 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. 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.

[0180] 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 aerosolgenerating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0181] Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device. 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.

[0182] 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. 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. In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating 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.

[0183] Aerosol-Free Delivery System

[0184] In some embodiments, the delivery system is an aerosol-free delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.

[0185] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material or a material that is not intended to be aerosolised. As appropriate, either material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0186] Active Substance

[0187] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance. The active substance as used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may for example be selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may comprise for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.

[0188] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.

[0189] As noted herein, the active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes. As noted herein, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "botanical" includes any material derived from plants including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fibres, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husk, shells or the like. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally existing in a botanical, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, shreds, strips, sheets, or the like.

[0190] Example botanicals are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice (liquorice), matcha, mate, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (anise), basil, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, Wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof. The mint may be chosen from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arventis, Mentha c.v., Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata c.v., Mentha piperita c.v, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Memtha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata c.v. and Mentha suaveolens.

[0191] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa and hemp. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from rooibos and fennel.

[0192] Flavours

[0193] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises a flavour. As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. They may include naturally occurring flavour materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, Wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, liquid such as an oil, solid such as a powder, or gas.

[0194] In some embodiments, the flavour comprises menthol, spearmint and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits and / or redberry. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from cannabis.

[0195] In some embodiments, the flavour may comprise a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to eucolyptol, WS-3.

[0196] Aerosol-generating material

[0197] 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. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). 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 aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

[0198] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material. Aerosol-former material

[0199] The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1 ,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso- Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0200] Functional material

[0201] The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0202] Substrate

[0203] 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.

[0204] Consumable

[0205] A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may, for example, comprise combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0206] Susceptor

[0207] A susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.

[0208] Aerosol-modifying agent

[0209] An aerosol-modifying agent is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol generation area, that is configured to modify the aerosol generated, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosolmodifying agent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material.

[0210] Aerosol generator

[0211] An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosolgenerating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0212] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems (which may also be referred to as vapour delivery systems) such as nebulisers or e-cigarettes. Throughout the following description the term “e- cigarette” or “electronic cigarette” may sometimes be used, but it will be appreciated this term may be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery system I device and electronic aerosol delivery system I device. Furthermore, and as is common in the technical field, the terms "aerosol" and "vapour", and related terms such as "vaporise", "volatilise" and "aerosolise", may generally be used interchangeably.

[0213] Aerosol delivery systems (e-cigarettes) often, though not always, comprise a modular assembly comprising a reusable device part and a replaceable (disposable / consumable) cartridge part. Often, the replaceable cartridge part will comprise the aerosol generating material and the vaporiser (which may collectively be called a ‘cartomizer’) and the reusable device part will comprise the power supply (e.g. rechargeable power source) and control circuitry. It will be appreciated these different parts may comprise further elements depending on functionality. For example, the reusable device part will often comprise a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operating status characteristics, and the replaceable cartridge device part in some cases comprises a temperature sensor for helping to control temperature. Cartridges are electrically and mechanically coupled to the control unit for use, for example using a screw thread, bayonet, or magnetic coupling with appropriately arranged electrical contacts. When the aerosol generating material in a cartridge is exhausted, or the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge having a different aerosol generating material, the cartridge may be removed from the reusable part and a replacement cartridge attached in its place. Systems and devices conforming to this type of two-part modular configuration may generally be referred to as two-part systems / devices.

[0214] It is common for electronic cigarettes to have a generally elongate shape. For the sake of providing a concrete example, certain embodiments of the disclosure will be taken to comprise this kind of generally elongate two-part system employing disposable cartridges. However, it will be appreciated that the underlying principles described herein may equally be adopted for different configurations, for example single-part systems or modular systems comprising more than two parts, refillable devices and single-use disposables, as well as other overall shapes, for example based on so-called box-mod high performance devices that typically have a boxier shape. More generally, it will be appreciated certain embodiments of the disclosure are based on aerosol delivery systems which are operationally configured to provide functionality in accordance with the principles described herein and the constructional aspects of systems configured to provide the functionality in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure is not of primary significance.

[0215] Throughout the disclosure, the terms ‘substantially’, ‘approximately’ and ‘about’ should be considered to mean within + / - 10% unless indicated otherwise.

[0216] Index to reference numerals

[0217] 1 aerosol delivery system

[0218] 2 reusable part

[0219] 4 cartridge part

[0220] 6 interface between reusable part and cartridge part

[0221] 12 reusable part housing

[0222] 14, 16 user input buttons

[0223] 20 user programming circuitry

[0224] 22 controller

[0225] 24 display

[0226] 26 power source

[0227] 28 air inlet

[0228] 30 airflow sensor

[0229] 31 printed circuit board (PCB) 32 sensor cavity or chamber

[0230] 34 chamber wall

[0231] 42 cartridge housing

[0232] 44 chamber or reservoir

[0233] 46 carrier

[0234] 47 capillary tubes

[0235] 48 aerosol generator

[0236] 50 mouthpiece outlet

[0237] 51 airflow path through reusable part

[0238] 52 airflow path through cartridge

[0239] 60 actuator mechanism

[0240] 64 biasing element

[0241] 146 spray or drip delivery mechanism

[0242] Particular features

[0243] Particular features are set out below and may be combined, in any permutation, with any one or more features disclosed in the description, claims and / or accompanying drawings.

[0244] 1 . An aerosol delivery system (or aerosol delivery means) comprising an aerosol generator (or aerosol generating means) and a carrier (or carrier means) for delivering aerosol-generating material from a reservoir to the aerosol generator in use, wherein at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier is configured to move relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier, to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator.

[0245] 2. In some examples, in use, the movement comprises: a. movement into and out of contact between the aerosol generator and the carrier; and / or b. movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier into and out of an air flow path through the aerosol delivery system.

[0246] 3. In some examples, the aerosol delivery system comprises a reusable device that is configured to receive a replaceable cartridge containing aerosol-generating material.

[0247] 4. In some examples: a. the system comprises an air flow path through the device; and / or b. the system comprises an air flow path through the cartridge; and / or c. the device or cartridge comprises a mouthpiece for a user.

[0248] 5. In some examples, the carrier: a. comprises a wick, a capillary tube, a valve, an aperture, a slit and / or a flexible and resilient material; and / or b. is configured to move or deform on contact with the aerosol generator, to deposit aerosolgenerating material from the reservoir onto the aerosol generator.

[0249] 6. In some examples, the aerosol generator and / or the carrier is / are bi-stable. In some examples, the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier is responsive to a change in temperature, pressure and / or electromagnetic force. In some examples, the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier comprises: a. linear or rotational movement of the aerosol generator with respect to the carrier; and / or b. linear or rotational movement of the carrier with respect to the aerosol generator; and / or c. movement of the aerosol generator on a prescribed path with respect to the carrier; and / or d. movement of the carrier on a prescribed path with respect to the aerosol generator. In some examples, the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier is configured to: a. eject aerosol generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator; and / or b. eject aerosol generated by the aerosol generator. In some examples, the aerosol delivery system comprises an actuator configured to actuate the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier. In some examples, the system comprises a reusable device portion comprising the aerosol generator and the actuator, wherein the device is configured to receive a cartridge containing aerosol-generating material. In some examples, comprising an electromagnetic or vibrating mechanism configured to move the aerosol generator and / or the carrier. In some examples, comprising a reusable device portion comprising the aerosol generator and an electromagnetically inductive coil, configured to receive a cartridge containing aerosol-generating material and an armature. In some examples, the aerosol generator comprises the electromagnetically inductive coil or the electromagnetically inductive coil is integrated into the aerosol generator. In some examples, at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier is configured to move linearly or rotationally relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier in use, comprising: a. movement into and out of contact between the aerosol generator and the carrier; and b. movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier into and out of an air flow path through the aerosol delivery system. In some examples, comprising multiple aerosol generators and / or multiple carriers. In some examples, comprising: a. multiple aerosol generators and a carrier, wherein the multiple aerosol generators and / or the carrier is / are configured to move relative to the other of the aerosol generators and the carrier, into and out of contact on multiple different surfaces of the carrier; or b. multiple carriers and an aerosol generator, wherein the multiple carriers and / or the aerosol generator is / are configured to move relative to the other of the carriers and the aerosol generator, into and out of contact on multiple different surfaces of the aerosol generator. In some examples, the aerosol generator is non-porous. In some examples, the aerosol generator comprises one or more through-apertures. In some examples, the aerosol generator comprises a thin-film heater etched or printed onto a surface. In some examples, further comprising: a. a cartridge housing aerosol-generating material; and / or b. a power supply. A method for delivering aerosol-generating material from a reservoir to an aerosol generator in a system, the system comprising an aerosol generator and a carrier, the method comprising: a. moving at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator. A computer program product or computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a controller, cause the controller to carry out the method. A cartridge (or cartridge means) for an aerosol delivery system (or aerosol delivery means) comprising an aerosol generator (or aerosol generating means), the cartridge comprising a reservoir of aerosol-generating material and a spray or drip delivery mechanism (or a spray or drip delivery means), wherein, in use, the delivery mechanism is configured to spray or drip aerosol-generating material onto the aerosol generator, for generating aerosol. In some examples, the delivery mechanism comprises a pressurised reservoir of aerosolgenerating material. In some examples, the reservoir is inflatable or compressible. In some examples, the reservoir is configured to be compressed in use by a biasing element. An aerosol delivery system (or aerosol delivery means) comprising an aerosol generator (or aerosol generating means) and a spray or drip delivery mechanism (or a spray or drip delivery means), wherein the delivery mechanism is configured to spray or drip aerosol-generating material from a reservoir onto the aerosol generator, for generating aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol delivery system comprises a reusable device that is configured to receive a replaceable cartridge containing aerosol-generating material. In some examples, the device comprises the delivery mechanism. In some examples, the delivery mechanism comprises a flexible and resilient material, wherein the material is configured to move or deform to spray or drip aerosol-generating material on to the aerosol generator. In some examples, the flexible and resilient material comprises a valve, a nozzle, an aperture, a slit and / or silicone. In some examples, the delivery mechanism comprises an electromagnetic or vibrating mechanism. In some examples, the delivery mechanism comprises a venturi tube. In some examples, in use, aerosol-generating material is drawn into air flow through the venturi tube and delivered to the aerosol generator. In some examples, in use, inhalation by the user on the system draws aerosol-generating material into air flow through the venturi tube. 37. In some examples, the delivery mechanism comprises a pump or a micropump such as a piston pump, a plunger pump, a diaphragm pump and / or a peristaltic pump.

[0250] 38. In some examples, the aerosol-generating material is electrostatically charged.

[0251] 39. In some examples, comprising an electrostatic charge generator configured to electrostatically charge the aerosol generating material.

[0252] 40. In some examples, further comprising: a. a heater configured to preheat the delivery mechanism; and / or b. a deflector configured to deflect flow from the delivery mechanism onto the aerosol generator.

[0253] 41 . In some examples, the aerosol generator is non-porous.

[0254] 42. In some examples, the aerosol generator comprises one or more through-apertures.

[0255] 43. In some examples, the aerosol generator comprises a thin-film heater etched or printed onto a surface.

[0256] 44. In some examples, further comprising: a. a cartridge housing aerosol-generating material; and / or b. a power supply.

Claims

Claims1 . An aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol generator and a carrier for delivering aerosolgenerating material from a reservoir to the aerosol generator in use, wherein at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier is configured to move relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier, to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein, in use, the movement comprises: a. movement into and out of contact between the aerosol generator and the carrier; and / or b. movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier into and out of an air flow path through the aerosol delivery system.

3. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol delivery system comprises a reusable device that is configured to receive a replaceable cartridge containing aerosol-generating material.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein: a. the system comprises an air flow path through the device; and / or b. the system comprises an air flow path through the cartridge; and / or c. the device or cartridge comprises a mouthpiece for a user.

5. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the carrier: a. comprises a wick, a capillary tube, a valve, an aperture, a slit and / or a flexible and resilient material; and / or b. is configured to move or deform on contact with the aerosol generator, to deposit aerosolgenerating material from the reservoir onto the aerosol generator.

6. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generator and / or the carrier is / are bistable.

7. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier is responsive to a change in temperature, pressure and / or electromagnetic force.

8. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier comprises: a. linear or rotational movement of the aerosol generator with respect to the carrier; and / or b. linear or rotational movement of the carrier with respect to the aerosol generator; and / or c. movement of the aerosol generator on a prescribed path with respect to the carrier; and / or d. movement of the carrier on a prescribed path with respect to the aerosol generator.

9. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier is configured to: a. eject aerosol generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator; and / or b. eject aerosol generated by the aerosol generator.

10. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol delivery system comprises an actuator configured to actuate the movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier.11 . The system of claim 10, wherein the system comprises a reusable device portion comprising the aerosol generator and the actuator, wherein the device is configured to receive a cartridge containing aerosol-generating material.

12. The system of any preceding claim, comprising an electromagnetic or vibrating mechanism configured to move the aerosol generator and / or the carrier.

13. The system of claim 12, comprising a reusable device portion comprising the aerosol generator and an electromagnetically inductive coil, configured to receive a cartridge containing aerosolgenerating material and an armature.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the aerosol generator comprises the electromagnetically inductive coil or the electromagnetically inductive coil is integrated into the aerosol generator.

15. The system of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier is configured to move linearly or rotationally relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier in use, comprising: a. movement into and out of contact between the aerosol generator and the carrier; and b. movement of the aerosol generator and / or the carrier into and out of an air flow path through the aerosol delivery system.

16. The system of any preceding claim, comprising multiple aerosol generators and / or multiple carriers.

17. The system of any preceding claim, comprising: a. multiple aerosol generators and a carrier, wherein the multiple aerosol generators and / or the carrier is / are configured to move relative to the other of the aerosol generators and the carrier, into and out of contact on multiple different surfaces of the carrier; or b. multiple carriers and an aerosol generator, wherein the multiple carriers and / or the aerosol generator is / are configured to move relative to the other of the carriers and the aerosol generator, into and out of contact on multiple different surfaces of the aerosol generator.

18. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generator is non-porous.

19. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generator comprises one or more through-apertures.

20. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generator comprises a thin-film heater etched or printed onto a surface.21 . The system of any preceding claim, further comprising: a. a cartridge housing aerosol-generating material; and / or b. a power supply.

22. A method for delivering aerosol-generating material from a reservoir to an aerosol generator in a system, the system comprising an aerosol generator and a carrier, the method comprising: a. moving at least one of the aerosol generator and the carrier relative to the other of the aerosol generator and the carrier to deliver aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the aerosol generator.

23. A computer program product or computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a controller, cause the controller to carry out the method of claim 22.

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