A consumable, a non-combustible aerosol provision device and system

Abstract

The present invention relates to consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol provision device, non-combustible aerosol provision devices, and non-combustible aerosol provision systems comprising such consumables and devices. The consumable is configured to be coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device and wherein the consumable comprises: a storage volume for containing an aerosol generating material; and an interface that is sealed prior to coupling of the consumable to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the interface is configured to receive a protruding member of said non- combustible aerosol provision device to unseal the interface to provide for fluid communication between the consumable and the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

Description

[0001] A CONSUMABLE, A NON-COMBUSTIBLE AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE AND SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol provision device, non-combustible aerosol provision devices, and non-combustible aerosol provision systems comprising such consumables and devices.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Certain tobacco industry products produce an aerosol during use, which is inhaled by a user. For example, non-combustible aerosol provision devices heat an aerosol generating material such as an aerosol precursor liquid to form an aerosol by heating, but not burning, the aerosol generating material. Such tobacco industry products commonly include mouthpieces through which the aerosol passes to reach the user's mouth.

[0006] SUMMARY

[0007] In accordance with a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a consumable for a non- combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the consumable is configured to be coupled to the non- combustible aerosol provision device and wherein the consumable comprises: a storage volume for containing an aerosol generating material; and an interface that is sealed prior to coupling of the consumable to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the interface is configured to receive a protruding member of said non-combustible aerosol provision device to unseal the interface to provide for fluid communication between the consumable and the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0008] Optionally, the consumable does not comprise an aerosol generating device, a heater, or a means for generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating material. Rather, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises an aerosol generator configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material.

[0009] Optionally, the aerosol generating material comprises an aerosol precursor liquid.

[0010] Optionally, the aerosol generating material comprises a solid, liquid, or a gel. The aerosol generating material may contain an active substance, for example nicotine. For example, the aerosol generating material may comprise tobacco. Optionally, the interface comprises a seal that is configured to be penetrated by the protruding member to unseal the interface, and optionally wherein the seal is configured to be penetrated by the protruding member upon coupling the consumable to the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0011] Optionally, the interface comprises one or more apertures that are each configured to be sealed by the seal, said one or more apertures being configured to be unsealed by the penetration of the protruding member.

[0012] Optionally, the protruding member is configured to penetrate the interface to provide for one or more apertures in the interface, each of said one or more apertures comprising an inlet and / or an outlet of the interface.

[0013] Optionally, the protruding member is configured to penetrate the seal to provide for one or more apertures in the seal, each of said one or more apertures being configured to provide an inlet and / or an outlet of the interface.

[0014] Optionally, the protruding member is configured to pierce or puncture the interface to unseal one or more apertures in the interface by penetrating the seal.

[0015] Optionally, the protruding member is configured to penetrate the interface to unseal one or more apertures in the interface.

[0016] Optionally, the interface comprises one or more apertures each configured to be sealed by a respective seal, wherein each seal is configured to be penetrated by the protruding member to unseal its respective aperture.

[0017] Optionally, the interface comprises a sealed membrane.

[0018] Optionally, the interface comprises a sealed membrane when the consumable is not coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0019] Optionally, when the consumable is coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, the interface comprises a membrane comprising one or more apertures, said one or more apertures having been formed by the penetration of the protruding member into the interface.

[0020] Optionally, when the consumable is coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, the seal comprises one or more apertures which unseal the interface, said one or more apertures having been formed by the penetration of the protruding member into the interface.

[0021] Optionally, when the consumable is coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, the interface is unsealed. Optionally, when the consumable is coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, at least a portion of the interface is unsealed, to provide for fluid communication between the consumable and the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0022] Optionally, the interface is configured to be unsealed at a first location to provide a first aperture. Optionally, the interface is configured to be unsealed at a second location to provide a second aperture. The first aperture may comprise an outlet and the second aperture may comprise an inlet.

[0023] Optionally, the interface is configured to provide one or more openings when the interface is unsealed by receiving said protruding member.

[0024] Optionally, the protruding member is configured to provide one or more flow paths through the interface to provide for fluid communication between the consumable and the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0025] Optionally, when the consumable is not coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, the interface is configured to fluidly seal the consumable from the non-combustible aerosol provision device, to prevent fluid communication therebetween.

[0026] Optionally, when the consumable is coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, the interface is configured to provide for fluid communication between the storage volume of the consumable and an aerosol generator of the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0027] Optionally, when the consumable is coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, the interface is configured to provide one or more flow paths for the flow of one or more fluids between the consumable and the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0028] Optionally, the seal comprises a membrane configured to enclose at least a portion of the storage volume of the consumable. Optionally, the membrane is configured to be penetrated by the protruding member to provide one or more apertures in the membrane.

[0029] Optionally, the seal is configured to be penetrated at one or more penetrating locations to unseal the interface at said one or more penetrating locations.

[0030] Optionally, the seal is configured to be punctured or pierced, for example at one or more penetrating locations.

[0031] Optionally, the seal comprises a resilient material such as an elastomeric material, for example silicone.

[0032] Optionally, the seal comprises a membrane, for example a silicone membrane.

[0033] Optionally, the seal comprises foil. Optionally, the seal is configured to reseal the interface upon removal of the protruding member from the interface and, preferably, the seal comprises a resilient material.

[0034] Optionally, the consumable is configured to be removably coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device and, preferably, the seal is configured to reseal the interface upon removal of the consumable from the non-combustible aerosol provision device. For example, the seal may comprise a resilient material such that the seal is automatically resealed upon removal of the protruding member from the interface.

[0035] Optionally, the interface is configured to receive the protruding element to provide at least one of: an outlet for the flow of said aerosol generating material from the storage volume to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, and an inlet for the flow of air into the consumable.

[0036] Optionally, the consumable comprises a mouthpiece for delivering aerosol to a user. The mouthpiece may be arranged at an opposite end of the consumable to the interface. The mouthpiece may comprise a mouthpiece outlet for the flow of aerosol from the consumable to the mouth of a user for inhalation thereof. The mouthpiece may be configured to be in fluid communication with an aerosol flow path for the flow of aerosol generated by the non-combustible aerosol provision device to the mouthpiece outlet of the consumable, for delivery of the aerosol to the mouth of a user.

[0037] Optionally, the consumable comprises an aerosol inlet for the flow of aerosol from the non- combustible aerosol provision device to the consumable. The aerosol inlet may be in fluid communication with the storage volume for containing an aerosol generating material, to provide for the flow of air into the storage volume.

[0038] Optionally, the consumable comprises a first flow path for the flow of aerosol generating material from the storage volume to the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0039] Optionally, the consumable comprises a second flow path for the flow of aerosol generated by the non-combustible aerosol provision device to the consumable, for example to a mouthpiece of the consumable. Optionally, the consumable comprises an aerosol conduit formed in the storage volume, for providing the second flow path. Optionally, the aerosol conduit is not in fluid communication with the storage volume.

[0040] Optionally, the consumable comprises a third flow path for the flow of air into the storage volume of the consumable, for example from the non-combustible aerosol provision device to the storage volume. Optionally, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises an aerosol generator configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material, and optionally, the interface is configured to supply aerosol generating material to the aerosol generator. Optionally, the interface comprises an outlet configured to supply aerosol generating material from the storage volume of the consumable to the non-combustible aerosol provision device. Optionally, the aerosol generator comprises a heater. Optionally, the aerosol generator comprises a wicking element, for example comprising a wicking material. The wicking element may be configured to absorb the aerosol generating material. Optionally, the aerosol generator comprises a sealing means, for example a sealing ring. The heater may comprise an electrode configured to provide for electrical connection between the heater and a power supply of the device. Optionally, the device comprises one or more pogo pins configured to contact the electrode of the heater.

[0041] Optionally, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a connecting part configured to receive and house at least a portion of the protruding member. Optionally, the connecting part comprises an aerosol conduit for the flow of aerosol from the aerosol generator to the consumable. Optionally, the connecting part comprises an aerosol generating material outlet for the flow of aerosol generating material to the aerosol generator. Optionally, the connecting part comprises one or more air ports for the flow of air into the connecting part. Optionally, the connecting part may comprise one or more channels, for example which may form a labyrinth arrangement, for the flow of air inputted into the connecting part via the one or more air ports. Optionally, the one or more air ports may be in fluid communication with the aerosol conduit and / or with the storage volume of the consumable.

[0042] Optionally, the protruding member is a first protruding member and the interface is configured to receive a second protruding member of the non-combustible aerosol provision device to provide at least one of: an outlet for the flow of said aerosol generating material from the storage volume to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, and an inlet for the flow of air into the consumable.

[0043] Optionally, the interface comprises an outlet for the flow of said aerosol generating material from the storage volume to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, and the interface comprises an inlet for the flow of air into the consumable.

[0044] Optionally, the first protruding member has a first length and the second protruding member has a second length, wherein the first length is greater than the second length. Optionally, the first protruding member has a first length and the second protruding member has a second length, wherein the second length is greater than the first length. Optionally, the first protruding member has a first length and the second protruding member has a second length that is approximately equal to the first length. Optionally, the protruding member comprises a fluid flow path and, preferably, the protruding member is hollow.

[0045] Optionally, the first and / or second protruding members each comprises a generally cylindrical hollow tube. The generally cylindrical hollow tube may comprise a pointed tip. For example, the generally cylindrical hollow tube may comprise a chamfered sharp end. The first and / or second protruding members may each comprise a needle.

[0046] Optionally, the consumable comprises one or more housing elements which contain the storage volume. The one or more housing elements may be configured to correspond and / or interface with the non-combustible aerosol provision device, which may also comprise a housing.

[0047] Optionally, the non-combustible aerosol provision device further comprises a power source, for example a battery, for powering the aerosol generator.

[0048] Optionally, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises an actuation means, for example a button, for actuating the aerosol generator, such that a user of the device can selectively choose when to produce aerosol for inhalation thereof. For example, the actuation means may comprise a button configured to be pressed by the user, to turn the device on and off. The button may be arranged on a side of a housing of the device.

[0049] In accordance with a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the device is configured to be coupled to a consumable comprising a storage volume for containing an aerosol generating material, and an interface that is sealed prior to coupling of the consumable to the non-combustible aerosol provision device; wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a protruding member configured to be received in the interface of the consumable, to unseal the interface to provide for fluid communication between the consumable and the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0050] Optionally, the non-combustible aerosol provision device according to the second aspect of the disclosure comprises one or more of the features described above in relation to the first aspect of the disclosure. Optionally, the consumable which the device according to the second aspect of the disclosure is configured to be coupled to comprises one or more of the features described above in relation to the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0051] In accordance with a third aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system, comprising a consumable according to the first aspect of the disclosure and a non- combustible aerosol provision device according to the second aspect of the disclosure. Optionally, the consumable of the non-combustible aerosol provision system according to the third aspect of the disclosure comprises one or more of the features described above in relation to the first and / or second aspects of the disclosure. Optionally, the non-combustible aerosol provision device of the non-combustible aerosol provision system according to the third aspect of the disclosure comprises one or more of the features described above in relation to the first and / or second aspects of the disclosure.

[0052] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] Figure 1 shows a non-combustible aerosol provision system;

[0055] Figure 2 shows a non-combustible aerosol provision system;

[0056] Figure 3 shows a non-combustible aerosol provision system;

[0057] Figure 4 shows a disassembled non-combustible aerosol provision system;

[0058] Figure 5 shows an exploded view of a non-combustible aerosol provision system;

[0059] Figure 6 shows an exploded view of a non-combustible aerosol provision system;

[0060] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a non-combustible aerosol provision system;

[0061] Figure 8 shows a portion of a consumable;

[0062] Figure 9 shows a portion of a consumable;

[0063] Figure 10 shows an underside view of a portion of a consumable;

[0064] Figure 11 shows a housing of a non-combustible aerosol provision device;

[0065] Figure 12 shows a portion of a non-combustible aerosol provision device;

[0066] Figure 13 shows a plan view of a portion of a non-combustible aerosol provision device;

[0067] Figure 14 shows a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a portion of a consumable coupled thereto;

[0068] Figure 15 shows a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a portion of a consumable coupled thereto;

[0069] Figure 16 shows a consumable and two protruding members;

[0070] Figure 17 shows a portion of a consumable and two protruding members;

[0071] Figure 18 shows a portion of a non-combustible aerosol provision device;

[0072] Figure 19 shows a portion of a non-combustible aerosol provision device; and

[0073] Figure 20 shows a connecting part of a non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0074] DETAILED DESCRIPTION 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.

[0075] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

[0076] 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 aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thp 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 aerosolgenerating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol-modifying agent.

[0084] 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.

[0085] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance.

[0086] 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.

[0087] In one embodiment the active substance is a legally permissible recreational drug

[0088] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.

[0089] 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. The active substance may be CBD or a derivative thereof.

[0090] 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. 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

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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 alimited to eucolyptol, WS-3.

[0097] 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 semi-solid (such as a gel) which may or may not contain an active substance and / or flavourants.

[0098] 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.

[0099] The aerosol-generating material may comprise a binder, such as a gelling agent, and an aerosol former. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, is also present and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free from botanical material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco free.

[0100] The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be an "amorphous solid". In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises an aerosol-generating film that is an amorphous solid. The amorphous solid may be a "monolithic solid". The amorphous solid may be substantially 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 amorphous solid may, for example, comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

[0101] The amorphous solid may be substantially free from botanical material. The amorphous solid may be substantially tobacco free.

[0102] 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.

[0103] The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of apH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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 aerosolmodifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material.

[0109] 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 aerosolgenerating 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.

[0110] Figures 1, 2 and 3 show a non-combustible aerosol provision system 100 (which may hereinafter be referred to as the "system") comprising a consumable 110 and a non-combustible aerosol provision device 210 (which may hereinafter be referred to as the "device"). In the example illustrated, the consumable 110 is coupled to the device 210 and is removable therefrom, such that the consumable 110 can be disposable in that it may be removed from the device 210 and replaced with another similar or identical consumable 110 once its contents has been consumed or is no longer desired. The consumable 110 contains an aerosol generating material, and is configured to be in fluid communication with the device 210 when the consumable 110 is coupled to the device 210, such that the aerosol generating material can be supplied to the device 210. The aerosol generating material may comprise, for example, an aerosol precursor liquid, such as a gel or liquid containing nicotine for example.

[0111] The device 210 is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material, the aerosol being configured to flow through to a mouthpiece outlet 116 at a mouth end 115 of the consumable 110, for inhalation by a user of the system 100. The device 210 comprises a button 230 configured to actuate the aerosol generating functionality of the device 210 when desired by the user. It is though envisaged that the device 210 may comprise any other suitable actuation means to actuate the aerosol generating functionality of the device 210, such as a slider. The actuation means may be configured to power the device 210 on and off, and / or to selectively turn on the aerosol generating functionality once the device 210 is already powered on.

[0112] Referring now to Figure 4, which shows the system 100 in a disassembled state in which the consumable 110 is decoupled from the device 210 and a housing 220 of the device 210 has been removed therefrom, the consumable 110 comprises a first housing element 111 and a second housing element 130. Turning now to the exploded views of Figures 5 and 6, the first housing element 111 comprises one or more engaging elements 112 configured to engage with one or more corresponding engaging elements 131 of the second housing element 130, to couple the second housing element 130 to the first housing element 111. For example, the one or more engaging elements 112 may comprise one or more protruding elements such as pins configured to be received in one or more slots or grooves comprising the one or more corresponding engaging elements 131, or vice versa. The first housing element 111 defines a storage volume 133 thereinside (see Figures 7 and 9 for example), for containing the aerosol generating material. It is envisaged that the storage volume 133 may contain the aerosol generating material, or that the storage volume 133 may be substantially empty and may be configured to be filled and / or refilled with aerosol generating material.

[0113] As shown in Figure 9, the first housing element 111 comprises a first portion 119a, a second portion 119b, and a third portion 119c. The first portion 119a is configured to generally match the form of the housing 220 of the device 210, such that when the consumable 110 is coupled to the device 210, the first portion 119a and the housing 220 form a generally continuous surface, for example as shown in Figure 1. In the example shown, the first portion 119a comprises a lip 136 which has a curved profile configured to correspond with a corresponding lip 236 of the housing 220 of the device 210, as shown in Figure 11 for example. The first portion 119a is shaped to form a mouth piece at the mouth end 115, which is configured to be received in the mouth of a user of the system 100, such that aerosol can flow out from the mouthpiece outlet 116 into the user's mouth, for inhalation thereof.

[0114] The second portion 119b is configured to have a smaller cross-sectional area than the first portion 119a, and to be received inside a portion of the housing 220 of the device 210. In this manner, the consumable 110 may be configured to ergonomically mate with the device 210 such that a user of the system 100 can readily intuitively realise how to couple the consumable 110 to the device 210. The third portion 119c is configured to have a smaller cross-sectional area than the second portion 119b, and to be received inside the second housing element 130 of the consumable 110, as shown in Figure

[0115] 4.

[0116] The mouth end 115 of the consumable 110 is arranged at a distal end 117 of the consumable 110, which is opposite to a proximal end 118 of the consumable 110. The consumable 110 is configured to fluidly interface with and be mechanically coupled to the device 210 at the proximal end 118. As shall be discussed below in more detail, during use of the system 100, aerosol generating material is configured to flow from the storage volume 133 to the device 210 generally in the direction of away from the distal end 117 and towards the proximal end 118. Conversely, aerosol generated by the device 210 is configured to flow generally in the opposite direction, from the proximal end 118 towards the distal end 117.

[0117] As shown in the exploded views of Figures 5 and 6, the consumable 110 further comprises an interface 120 which is arranged at the proximal end 118 opposite to the mouth end 115. The interface 120 is arranged to close an open end of the first housing element 111, and is held in place thereon by the coupling of the second housing element 130 to the first housing element 111. For example, the third portion 119c of the first housing element 111 can comprise one or more engaging elements such as a groove or rib 114 to engage with the interface 120. Figure 16 shows an example in which the interface r 120 is fitted onto the proximal end 118 of the first housing element 111, with the second housing element 130 removed for illustrative purposes. The second housing element 130 can then be slid around the interface 120 and the proximal end 118 of the first housing element 111 as is evident from the exploded views of Figures 5 and 6.

[0118] The interface 120 comprises an aerosol inlet 121 formed as an aperture therein, and configured to be in fluid communication with an aerosol inlet 113 of the first housing element 111, to provide for the flow of aerosol therethrough. The aerosol inlet 113 is the inlet of an aerosol conduit 122 formed inside the first housing element 111, the outlet of which is the mouthpiece outlet 116. In this manner, the aerosol conduit 122 provides a flow path for the flow of aerosol from the aerosol inlet 113 through the consumable 110 to the mouth end 115. The aerosol conduit 122 may be formed as a generally tubular element through the centre of the storage volume 133, although it is envisaged that other configurations may also be employed. Figures 9 and 10 show an exemplary consumable 110 with the interface 120 and the second housing portion 130 removed, for illustrative purposes only, to show an exemplary configuration of the aerosol conduit 122 and the aerosol inlet 113 within the storage volume 133. The interface 120 comprises a seal 123, which for example may comprise a membrane of a resilient material such as an elastomeric material such as silicone. In the example discussed herein, the seal 123 comprises a silicone membrane. It is also envisaged that the seal 123 may be formed from other materials which can be punctured, pierced or otherwise penetrated, for example foil, and that the seal 123 need not comprise a resilient material. The seal 123 is configured to be penetrated at a first penetrating location 134 and a second penetrating location 135 to provide one or more apertures, which may each form an inlet and / or an outlet to the seal, in addition to the aerosol inlet 121. For example, as shown in Figure 16, the seal 123 may be configured to be penetrated at a first penetrating location 134 to provide an outlet for the aerosol generating material to flow out of the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110, and at a second penetrating location 135 to provide an inlet for the flow of air into the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110. The inlets and / or outlets formed in the seal 123 by its puncturing / piercing may be generically referred to as ports, and they may provide the functionality of each constituting an inlet, and outlet, or both.

[0119] Figure 16 shows first and second penetrating members 140, 150 of the device 210 penetrating the seal 123 at the first and second penetrating locations 134, 135 respectively to form two apertures in the seal 123 of the interface 120 to unseal the interface 120. Figure 17 shows the same, albeit with the interface member 120 and hence the seal 123 removed, for illustrative purposes only, to illustrate how the first and second penetrating members 140, 150 protrude into the storage volume 133. In this manner, the seal 123 can be pierced, punctured or otherwise penetrated to provide for flow in and out of the storage volume 133 of the consumable, i.e. to provide for fluid communication therewith. In the example shown, the flow of aerosol through the aerosol inlet 113 is not in fluid communication with the storage volume 133, since the aerosol conduit 122 is formed as a generally tubular element up through the centre of the storage volume 133, such that the aerosol flow is kept separate from the aerosol generating material contained in the storage volume 133.

[0120] Furthermore, while in the example shown in Figure 16 and discussed herein, two protruding members 140, 150 penetrate the seal 123 to provide one inlet and one outlet for flow into and out of the storage volume 133, it is also envisaged that other arrangements may also be employed. For example, just one protruding member may be arranged to penetrate the seal 123, and said protruding member may form an inlet or an outlet in the seal 123, or a single aperture which may function as both an inlet or an outlet. As another example, two protruding members 140, 150 may penetrate the seal 123 and both form inlets therein, or both form outlets therein. As another example, three or more protruding members may penetrate the seal 123 and form one or more inlets, outlets, and / or combined inlet / outlet apertures therein.

[0121] As shall be discussed in more detail below in relation to the device 210 and the operation of the system 100, the consumable 110 thus comprises an outlet for the flow of aerosol generating material from the storage volume 133 into the device 210, an inlet for the flow of air into the storage volume 133, and an inlet 113 for the flow of aerosol generated by the device 210 through the aerosol conduit 122 through to the mouthpiece outlet 116 of the mouth end 115, for inhalation by a user. Since the interface 120 comprises a seal 123, before the consumable 110 has been used and fitted to a device 210, for example when the consumable 110 is brand new and unused and full of aerosol generating material, the interface 120 is sealed such that the aerosol generating material is unable to flow out of the storage volume 133. Conversely, when the consumable 110 is in use coupled to the device 210, the seal 123 is broken at the first and second penetrating locations 134, 135, such that an outlet and an inlet are provided in the interface 120 for the outflow of aerosol generating material and the inflow of air respectively. Thus, as shall be explained below in more detail, coupling the consumable 110 to the device 210 unseals the interface 120 to provide for fluid communication between the consumable 110 and the device 210, and the mechanical interface between the protruding members 140, 150 and the interface 120 also advantageously mechanically couples the consumable 110 to the device, said mechanical coupling initiating the creation of an inlet and an outlet for said fluid communication.

[0122] Referring back to Figure 4, which shows the housing 220 removed from the device 210 for illustrative purposes, the device 210 further comprises a power supply 240, for example a battery, configured to power an aerosol generating device of the device 210, which may for example comprise a heater 180, as shown in the exploded views of Figures 5 and 6 for example. The heater 180 comprises an electrode 181 configured to be in electrical contact with one or more pogo pins 182 or other electrical connection means, to connect the heater 180 to the power supply 240. A sealing element 170, such as a sealing ring for example, may be arranged adjacent to the heater 180, to prevent the inadvertent flow of aerosol generating material and / or aerosol from the region of the aerosol generating device to the power supply 240. The aerosol generating device further comprises a wicking element (not shown), which comprises a material capable of wicking the aerosol generating material. That is, the wicking element is configured to absorb the aerosol generating material, and the heater 180 is configured to heat the wicking element which is doused with / impregnated with aerosol generating material. In this manner, when the aerosol generating material flows out from the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110 into the aerosol generating device of the device 210, the heater 180 is configured to heat the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol therefrom, said aerosol then being configured to flow up into the aerosol conduit 122 for delivery to the mouth of a user.

[0123] Advantageously, the heater 180 is arranged in the device 210 rather than in the consumable 110, therefore when the consumable 110 is removed from the system 100 for disposal, for example because all of its aerosol generating material has been used up so it is empty and needs to be replaced with another consumable 110, the same heater 180 can be used again with a further consumable, which avoids a heater or other aerosol generating device being disposed of as part of the consumable. Thus, the system 100 reduces waste and has a reduced environmental impact by negating, or at least reducing, the inadvertent disposal of heaters and other aerosol generating device elements. That is, advantageously, the aerosol generating device including the heater 180 does not need to be discarded when the consumable 110 needs to be replaced, thus decreasing the environmental footprint of the system 100, and reducing the cost, weight and environmental impact of the disposable consumable 110.

[0124] The fluid and mechanical interface between the consumable 110 and the device 210 introduced above shall now be described in more detail, with further reference to the exploded views of Figures 5 and 6. As aforementioned, the device 210 comprises first and second protruding members 140, 150 configured to penetrate the seal 123 of the interface 120. As illustrated in the examples herein, the first and second protruding members 140, 150 may each comprise a needle having a pointed tip 140a, 150a respectively. For example, each of the protruding members 140, 150 may comprise a generally cylindrical hollow tube having a chamfered sharp end to provide the pointed tips 140a, 150a. Although, it is envisaged that each of the protruding members 140, 150 may alternatively have any other suitable form, for example a form capable of penetrating the interface 120 and / or a form capable of protruding into the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110. As aforementioned, the seal 123 may comprise a material which can be punctured, pierced or otherwise penetrated, such as for example foil, or an elastomeric material such as silicone. In this manner, when the protruding members 140, 150 are brought into contact with the seal 123 and a force is applied by the user pushing the consumable 110 towards the device 210, or vice versa, the protruding members 140, 150 are configured to pierce the seal 123, to penetrate the interface 120.

[0125] As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 7, once the consumable 110 is coupled to the device 210, the protruding members 140, 150 are thus arranged such that at least a portion thereof protrudes into and is received by the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110. In this manner, mechanically coupling the consumable 110 to the device 210 provides for fluid communication between the consumable 110 and the device 210. The seal 123 provides that the aerosol generating material is prevented from inadvertently leaking out of the consumable 110 before the interface 120 is pierced and penetrated by the protruding members 140, 150. Advantageously, the seal 123 may comprise a resilient material such as an elastomeric material, for example silicone, such that when the consumable 110 is removed from and decoupled from the device 210, the seal 123 reseals itself, by automatically closing over the inlet and outlet formed at the first and second penetrating locations 134, 135, so that the interface 120 is advantageously closed again and any residual aerosol generating material cannot inadvertently flow out of the consumable 110. Although, it is envisaged that the seal 123 may alternatively comprise a non-resilient material, or may otherwise not provide for automatic resealing upon withdrawal of the first and second penetrating members 140, 150. For example, as aforementioned, the seal 123 may comprise a foil seal configured to be non-reversibly pierced by the first and second penetrating members 140, 150.

[0126] In the example shown, the first protruding member 140 is configured to pierce the seal 123 to form an outlet in the interface 120 for the flow of aerosol generating material out from the consumable 110 to the aerosol generating device. Conversely, the second protruding member 150 is configured to pierce the seal 123 to form an inlet in the interface 120 for the flow of air into the consumable 110. The first protruding member 140 may have a longer length than the second protruding member 150, for example as shown in Figures 6 and 7, or vice versa. Alternatively, it is also envisaged that the first and second protruding members 140, 150 may have the same length. It is also envisaged that the device 210 may comprise just one protruding member, for example the first protruding member 140, to pierce the seal 123 to form an outlet in the interface 120 for the flow of aerosol generating material out from the consumable 110 to the aerosol generating device. It is envisaged that the seal 123 and the interface 120 may not comprise an inlet for the flow of air into the consumable 110.

[0127] In order to facilitate the fluid and mechanical connection between the first and second protruding members 140, 150 and the interface 120 and seal 123 of the consumable 110, the device 210 further comprises a connecting part 160, an example of which is shown in Figure 20. Although, it is also envisaged that the device 210 may alternatively comprise any other suitable interface to facilitate the connection between the interface 120 and seal 123 of the consumable and the first and second protruding members 140, 150. The exemplary connecting part 160 is configured to house the first and second protruding members 140 and 150 as shown in Figure 18, to form a proximal end of the device 210 which is configured to interface with the consumable 110. For example, the second housing element 130 comprises an interfacing surface 132 (see Figure 6) which is configured to interface with the connecting part 160.

[0128] The exemplary connecting part 160 comprises three conduits. Firstly, an aerosol conduit 161 for the flow of aerosol generated by the heater 180 to the aerosol conduit 122 of the consumable 110 comprises a generally elongate channel formed generally in the centre of the connecting part 160, for interfacing with the aerosol inlet 121. Secondly, an aerosol generating material conduit 162 is provided to one side of the aerosol conduit 161. The aerosol generating material conduit 162 is for the flow of aerosol generating material form the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110 to the heater 180 of the aerosol generating device of the device 210, and comprises a generally elongate channel configured to receive and house the first protruding member 140. Thirdly, an air conduit 163 for the flow of air to the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110 is provided to another side of the aerosol conduit 161, opposite to the aerosol generating material conduit 162. The air conduit 163 comprises a generally elongate channel configured to receive and house the second protruding member 150.

[0129] In this manner, first ends of the first and second protruding members 140, 150 are configured to be coupled to and housed in the connecting part 160, whilst second ends of the first and second protruding members 140, 150, which comprise the pointed tips 140a, 150a, are configured to protrude from the connecting part 160, for insertion into the consumable 110. To further illustrate the different conduits and resultant flow paths which are provided by the connecting part 160, Figures 12 and 13 illustrate the device 210 with the first and second protruding members 140, 150 removed, for illustrative purposes. Figures 14 and 15 show the device 210 together with the second housing element 130 of the consumable 110 to further exemplify the interface between the consumable 110 and the device 210. Figure 19 shows the same example as Figure 18, albeit with the connecting part 160 removed for illustrative purposes only, to show the positioning of the first and second protruding members 140, 150 relative to the heater 180.

[0130] The connecting part 160 is configured to be mechanically fixed within the device 210 by one or more fixing elements. For example, the connecting part 160 may comprise one or more channels 165 for receiving one or more screws 190 or other fixing means, as shown in the exploded view of Figure 6 for example. The connecting part 160 further comprises a receiving volume 164 suitable for receiving and housing the heater 180. In this manner, aerosol generating material can flow from the storage volume 133 into the outlet formed by the piercing of the seal 123 at the first penetrating location 134 by the first protruding member 140, to flow through the first protruding member 140 into the connecting part 160. Aerosol generating material exiting the first protruding member 140 can flow towards the receiving volume 164, where it can be heated by the heater 180 and an aerosol generated therefrom, said aerosol then flowing up through the connecting part airway 161 towards the mouthpiece outlet 116 of the consumable 110.

[0131] The connecting part 160 may further comprise one or more channels 166 for the flow of air into the connecting part 160, for example ambient air from outside the device 210. In the example shown in Figure 20 the one or more channels 166 are in fluid communication with one or more air ports 167 for the flow of air 167 into the connecting part 160 from externally to the device 210. As shown in Figure 18, the one or more channels 166 may for example form a labyrinth arrangement. The one or more air ports 167 may be in fluid communication with one or more corresponding air ports 267 of the device, for example as shown in Figure 2. At least a portion of the air flowing through the one or more air ports 167 is configured to flow up through the air conduit 163, up through the second protruding member 150, into the inlet formed in the seal 123, for the flow of air into the storage volume 133 of the consumable 110. Advantageously, air can thus flow into the storage volume 133 to balance the pressure therein, avoiding the creation of a vacuum, as aerosol generating material simultaneously flows out of the storage volume 133 via the first protruding member 140, so that the aerosol generating material can freely flow out of the consumable 110 by gravity. Some of the air flowing through the one or more air ports 167 may also be configured to flow through the one or more channels 166 to a region adjacent the heater 180, for mixing with the aerosol generated thereby, such that a mixture of both air and aerosol is configured to flow up the aerosol conduit 161.

[0132] The connecting part 160 may comprise at least one air port 167 on either side of the connecting part 160, each corresponding with at least one corresponding air port member 267 on either side of the device 210, such that air may be configured to flow into the device 210 from two opposite sides simultaneously. The one or more channels 166 may be configured to provide for fluid communication between the air inputted from either side, and to facilitate the mixing of said air with aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material.

[0133] The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc, other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A consumable for a non-combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the consumable is configured to be coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device and wherein the consumable comprises: a storage volume for containing an aerosol generating material; and an interface that is sealed prior to coupling of the consumable to the non- combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the interface is configured to receive a protruding member of said non-combustible aerosol provision device to unseal the interface to provide for fluid communication between the consumable and the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

2. A non-combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the device is configured to be coupled to a consumable comprising a storage volume for containing an aerosol generating material, and an interface that is sealed prior to coupling of the consumable to the non-combustible aerosol provision device; wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a protruding member configured to be received in the interface of the consumable, to unseal the interface to provide for fluid communication between the consumable and the non- combustible aerosol provision device.

3. A non-combustible aerosol provision system, comprising a consumable as claimed in claim 1 and a non-combustible aerosol provision device as claimed in claim 2.

4. A consumable as claimed in claim 1, or a device as claimed in claim 2, or a system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the aerosol generating material comprises an aerosol precursor liquid.

5. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the interface comprises a seal that is configured to be penetrated by the protruding member to unseal the interface, and optionally wherein the seal is configured to be penetrated by the protruding member upon coupling the consumable to the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

6. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the seal is configured to reseal the interface upon removal of the protruding member from the interface and, preferably, wherein the seal comprises a resilient material.

7. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the consumable is configured to be removably coupled to the non-combustible aerosol provision device and, preferably, wherein the seal is configured to reseal the interface upon removal of the consumable from the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

8. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the interface is configured to receive the protruding element to provide at least one of: an outlet for the flow of said aerosol generating material from the storage volume to the non- combustible aerosol provision device, and an inlet for the flow of air into the consumable.

9. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the consumable comprises a mouthpiece for delivering aerosol to a user.

10. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the consumable comprises an aerosol inlet for the flow of aerosol from the non-combustible aerosol provision device to the consumable.

11. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises an aerosol generator configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material, and optionally, wherein the interface is configured to supply aerosol generating material to the aerosol generator.

12. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the protruding member is a first protruding member and wherein the interface is configured to receive a second protruding member of the non-combustible aerosol provision device to provide at least one of: an outlet for the flow of said aerosol generating material from the storage volume to the non-combustible aerosol provision device, and an inlet for the flow of air into the consumable.

13. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the first protruding member has a first length and the second protruding member has a second length, wherein the first length is greater than the second length.

14. A consumable, a device or a system as in any of the preceding claims, wherein the protruding member is configured to penetrate the interface to provide for one or more apertures in the interface, each of said one or more apertures comprising an inlet and / or an outlet of the interface.

15. A consumable, a device or a system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the protruding member comprises a fluid flow path and, preferably, wherein the protruding member is hollow.

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