Aerosol provision system

Abstract

An aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision system comprising: one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; and a controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a first heating profile, the first heating profile comprising: a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T0 to T1, wherein the difference between T0 and T1 is greater than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein T1 is a first initial operating temperature; and a second time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than about 3 degrees Celsius per second.

Description

[0001] AEROSOL PROVISION SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision system and a method of generating an aerosol.

[0004] BACKGROUND

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

[0006] Aerosol provision systems, which cover the aforementioned devices or products, are known. Common systems use heaters to create an aerosol from a suitable medium which is then inhaled by a user. Often the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide a different aerosol for inhalation. It is known to use resistive heating systems as heaters to create an aerosol from a suitable medium. Separately induction heating systems are known to be used as heaters.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] In a first aspect, this specification describes an aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision system comprising: one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; and

[0009] a controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a first heating profile, the first heating profile comprising: a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is greater than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature; and a second time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than about 3 degrees Celsius per second. In one example, the first initial operating temperature is at least about 85% of the first target operating temperature.

[0010] In one example, the first rate is higher than about 0.2 degree Celsius per second.

[0011] In one example, the first rate is higher than about 0.5 degree Celsius per second.

[0012] In one example, the first rate is lower than about 0.9 degree Celsius per second.

[0013] In one example, the first rate is lower than about 0.8 degree Celsius per second.

[0014] In one example, the first rate is in the range of about 0.7 to about 0.8 degree Celsius per second.

[0015] In one example, the first target operating temperature is in the range of about 200 to about 300 degree Celsius.

[0016] In one example, the first target operating temperature is higher than 210 degree Celsius, such as in the range of about 240 to about 260 degrees Celsius.

[0017] In one example, the first target operating temperature is about 250 degrees Celsius.

[0018] In one example, the first time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 6 seconds, such as about 5 seconds.

[0019] In one example, the first time period is about 5 seconds.

[0020] In one example, the second time period is in the range of about 250 to about 350 seconds.

[0021] In one example, the second time period is about 310 seconds.

[0022] In one example, the control circuit is configured to control heating of the aerosol generator such that carbonyl emissions and aerosol emissions are controlled.

[0023] In one example, the heating profile comprises at least two temperature spikes during the second time period. In a second aspect, this specification describes a method, carried out at a controller of an aerosol provision system, the method comprising: controlling one or more aerosol generators of the aerosol provision system during a session of use, based on a first heating profile, the first heating profile comprising: a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and Tl is greater than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature; and a second time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than about 3 degrees Celsius per second.

[0024] In a third aspect, this specification describes an aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising: one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; and

[0025] a controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a second heating profile, the second heating profile comprising: a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and Tl is greater than 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a second initial operating temperature; and

[0026] a fourth time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to: (iii) to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period; (iv) to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period; wherein the first spike time period and the second spike time period is spaced by at least a third time period; wherein, during the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein T2 is a second target operating temperature, wherein the fourth time period is longer than the third time period, wherein the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period, and wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

[0027] In one example, Tl-2 is equal to Tl-3.

[0028] In one example, Tl-2 is lower than Tl-3. In one example, the T1 is at least about 85% of the T2.

[0029] In one example, the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

[0030] In one example, the fourth rate is higher than about 0.04 degree Celsius per second.

[0031] In one example, the fourth rate is lower than about 0.9 degree Celsius per second.

[0032] In one example, the fourth rate is lower than about 0.5 degree Celsius per second.

[0033] In one example, the fourth rate is in the range of about 0.05 to about 0.3 degree Celsius per second.

[0034] In one example, the second target operating temperature is in the range of about 200 to about 300 degree Celsius.

[0035] In one example, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 210 degree Celsius.

[0036] In one example, the second target operating temperature is equal to about 235 degree Celsius.

[0037] In one example, the third time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 6 seconds

[0038] In one example, the third time period is equal to about 5 seconds

[0039] In one example, the fourth time period is in the range of about 150 to about 250 seconds.

[0040] In one example, the fourth time period is equal to about 220 seconds.

[0041] In a fourth aspect, this specification describes a method, carried out at a controller of an aerosol provision system, the method comprising: controlling one or more aerosol generators of the aerosol provision system during a session of use, based on a second heating profile, the second heating profile comprising: a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is greater than 100 degrees Celsius, wherein T1 is a second initial operating temperature; and

[0042] a fourth time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to: (ill) to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period; (iv) to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period; wherein the first spike time period and the second spike time period is spaced by at least a third time period; wherein, during the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein T2 is a second target operating temperature, wherein the fourth time period is longer than the third time period, wherein the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period, and wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

[0043] In a fifth aspect, this specification describes an aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising:

[0044] one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; and

[0045] a controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on either a first heating profile or a second heating profile based on an operational mode of the aerosol provision device,

[0046] wherein the first profile comprises:

[0047] a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is higher than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature; and

[0048] a second time period, immediately following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than 3 degrees Celsius per second; wherein the second heating profile comprises:

[0049] a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and Tl is higher than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a second initial operating temperature; and a fourth time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to:

[0050] (ill) to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period;

[0051] (iv) to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period; wherein the first spike time period and the second spike time period is spaced by at least a third time period.

[0052] wherein, during the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein the fourth time period is longer than the third time period, wherein the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period, and wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

[0053] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0054] Various embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0055] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device located within a charging unit, wherein the aerosol provision device may comprise a controller which is configured to cause one or more aerosol generators to heat to a series of different target operating temperatures during a session of use;

[0056] Fig. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of part of the aerosol provision device as shown in Fig. 1, wherein the aerosol provision device comprises a pin-shaped heater element;

[0057] Fig. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of part of the aerosol provision device as shown in Fig. 1 and an aerosol generating article, wherein a pin-shaped heater element is shown inserted into a distal end of an aerosol generating article;

[0058] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a standalone aerosol provision device according to another embodiment, wherein the standalone aerosol provision device may be charged directly rather than being charged by a charging unit into which the aerosol provision device is inserted; Fig. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device as shown in Fig. 4 and shows that the aerosol provision device may comprise a pin-shaped heater element which, in use, may be inserted into a distal end of an aerosol generating article;

[0059] Fig. 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a pin-shaped heater element which may be used to heat an aerosol generating article according to various embodiments and wherein the heater element may be controlled by a controller so as to heat to a series of target operating temperatures according to a heating profile, wherein the target operating temperatures progressively increase with time during the course of a session of use;

[0060] Fig. 7 shows a first heating profile according to an embodiment and illustrates a heating profile which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators; when the aerosol provision device is operated in a first mode of operation;

[0061] Fig. 8 shows a second heating profile according to an embodiment and illustrates a heating profile which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a second mode of operation;

[0062] Fig. 9 is a side-on cross sectional view of an aerosol generating article partially inserted into a receiving portion or recess of an aerosol provision device according to various embodiments comprising a pin-shaped heater element and wherein the aerosol provision device comprises a controller which is arranged to set the pinshaped heater element a heating profile;

[0063] Fig. 10 is a cross sectional view of the aerosol generating article shown in Fig. 9 taken along line A-A' as shown in Fig. 9;

[0064] Figs. 11 to 13 show example heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a first mode of operation;

[0065] Figs. 14 to 19 show comparisons between various heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a first mode of operation; Figs. 20 to 22 show example heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a second mode of operation; and

[0066] Figs. 23 to 28 show comparisons between various heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a second mode of operation.

[0067] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] 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.

[0069] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product. Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating material" is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or semi-solid (such as a gel) which may or may not contain an active substance and / or flavourants.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] The aerosol generating material may comprise or be in the form of an aerosol generating film. The aerosol generating film 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. The aerosol generating film may be substantially free from botanical material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially tobacco free.

[0078] The aerosol generating film may have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness may be in the range of about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm. The aerosol generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may comprise or be a continuous sheet of material. The sheet may be in the form of a wrapper, it may be gathered to form a gathered sheet or it may be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The shredded sheet may comprise one or more strands or strips of aerosol generating material.

[0079] The aerosol generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol generating film may comprise one or more discrete portions or regions of aerosol generating material, such as dots, stripes or lines, which may be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0080] The aerosol generating film may be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol-former and one or more other components, such as one or more substances to be delivered, to form a slurry and then heating the slurry to volatilise at least some of the solvent to form the aerosol generating film.

[0081] An aerosol provision device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An "article" in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilise the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol provision device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size that is configured to be placed within or over a heater of the device which is sized to receive the article.

[0082] An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] A susceptor is a heating 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 susceptor may be only magnetic, or only electrically-conductive. The aerosol provision device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.

[0085] Non-combustible aerosol provision systems may comprise a modular assembly including both a reusable aerosol provision device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may, for example, comprise an electric power source, such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations the aerosol generating article may comprise partially, or entirely, the aerosol generating component.

[0086] The present disclosure is particularly concerned with various heating profiles as described below with reference to Figs. 7, 8, 11 to 18. An aerosol provision device is described below in particular with reference to Figs. 1-6. The aerosol provision device may comprise a controller and a heater element, such as a pin-shaped heater element. The controller may be arranged to set the heater element to be heated based on certain rate of change of temperature. The heating profiles shown and described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8 have been found to result in an excellent sensory experience. The aerosol provision device as disclosed with reference to Figs. 1-6 and which may be operated according to the heating profiles shown and disclosed with reference to Figs. 7, 8,11 to 18 has been found to be particularly suitable when used to generate aerosol from an aerosol generating article as disclosed with reference to Figs. 9-10.

[0087] Various different aspects of an aerosol provision device which may be operated according to various heating profiles according to various embodiments will now be described.

[0088] As used herein, the term carbonyls is intended to encompass reactive carbonyl species which may be found in an aerosol generated from an aerosol generating material. Reactive carbonyl species include aldehydes and ketones such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, 2,3-butanedione, 2,3-pentanedione, acetoin, acetone, acrolein, butyraldehyde, crotonaldehyde, glyoxal, isobutyraldehyde, methyl ethyl ketone, methylglyoxal, and propionaldehyde.

[0089] It is thought that the components within the aerosol generating material may influence the generation of carbonyls. For example, the bulk of the aerosol generating material, i.e. the fibrous material in this instance, can impact the generation of carbonyl production. It is thought that carbonyl generation may vary based on the amount of cellulose within the fibrous material, where fibrous materials containing more cellulose generate an aerosol with a higher level of carbonyls.

[0090] It is also thought that carbonyl generation may be influenced by temperature, specifically the temperature to which the aerosol generating material is heated. Many aerosol provision systems are configured to heat an aerosol generating material to approximately 250-300 °C. However, such systems typically take 15-20+ seconds in order to reach optimum temperature. This initial heating profile may be referred to as the ramp up time and illustrates the amount of time that a user must wait before taking their first puff. There may be a desire to decrease this ramp up time, for example to less than 10 seconds, perhaps less than 5 seconds. This would be advantageous because the user has less time to wait before their first puff of a session. However, in order to achieve such a fast ramp up time, it will likely be necessary for the aerosol provision system to reach higher temperatures, such as about 500 °C, about 600 °C, or even above 600 °C. It is hypothesised that when exposed to higher temperatures, aerosol generating materials will produce higher levels of carbonyls. At the same time, it is hypothesized that if heating temperatures are lower than a certain threshold, the emission of aerosols (e.g. comprising nicotine and glycerol) per puff may be reduced or the sensory experience may be negatively affected. Example embodiments described herein aim to address Fig. 1 shows an aerosol provision system 10 comprising an aerosol provision device 100 and a charging unit 101. The device is shown located within a cavity of a charging unit 101. The aerosol provision device 100 is arranged to generate aerosol from an aerosol generating article which may be inserted, in use, into the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol provision device 100 and an article may together form part of an aerosol provision system 10.

[0091] As will be discussed in more detail below, the aerosol provision device 100 may comprise one or more aerosol generators. For example, the aerosol provision device 100 may comprise an aerosol generator comprising a pin-shaped heater element as will be described in more detail below. The aerosol provision device may further comprise a controller which may be configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use.

[0092] At an initial time to, the aerosol provision device 100 and the aerosol generator may be at ambient temperature e.g. 20 °C. Other embodiments are contemplated wherein a previous aerosol generation session has been performed and wherein the temperature of the aerosol generator has dropped to a temperature < 50 °C.

[0093] Accordingly, at an initial time to the aerosol generator may be at a temperature < 50 °C.

[0094] The aerosol provision device 100 may comprise an elongate structure extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol provision device 100 has a proximal end, which is closest to the user (e.g. the user's mouth) when in use by the user to inhale aerosol generated by the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol provision device 100 also has a distal end which will be furthest from the user when in use. The proximal end may also be referred to as the "mouth end". The aerosol provision device 100 comprises an opening which leads into a heating chamber.

[0095] The aerosol provision device 100 may be removably inserted into the charging unit 101 in order to be charged. However, as discussed in more detail below the aerosol provision device may comprise a standalone aerosol provision device which can be charged directly without requiring a charging unit 101 to recharge the aerosol provision device.

[0096] The charging unit 101 comprises a cavity for receiving the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol provision device 100 may be inserted into the cavity of the charging unit 101 via an opening. The cavity of the charging unit 101 may comprise a longitudinal opening. A portion of the aerosol provision device 100 may comprise a first side. One or more user-operable control elements such as buttons 106 which may be activated in order to operate the aerosol provision device 100 (and in particular to select a desired mode of operation) may be provided on the first side of the aerosol provision device 100. The first side of the aerosol provision device 100 may be received in the longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

[0097] The cavity of the charging unit 101 may have a cross-sectional profile which only permits that the aerosol provision device 100 be inserted into the charging unit 101 in a single orientation. The outer profile of the aerosol provision device 100 may comprise an arcuate portion and a linear portion. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity provided in the charging unit 101 may also comprise a similar arcuate portion and a linear portion. The linear portion of the cross-sectional profile of the cavity may correspond with the longitudinal opening. The charging unit 101 may include a slidable cover 103. When the aerosol provision device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 in order to be recharged, the slidable cover 103 may be closed so as to cover the opening into the aerosol provision device 100. In other embodiments, the charging unit 101 may have an alternative cover configuration, such as a hinged or pivoted cover, or no cover may be provided. The charging unit 101 may include a user interface such as display 108, which may be provided at any convenient location, such as in the position shown in Fig. 1.

[0098] Fig. 2 shows a cross sectional view of a portion of an aerosol provision device 100 according to various embodiments. The aerosol provision device 100 comprises a main housing 200. The main housing 200 defines a device body of the device 100. The aerosol provision device 100 defines a heating chamber 201. A receptacle 205 may be provided which defines a heating chamber 201. An opening 203 may be provided to provide access to the heating chamber 201 . The receptacle 205 may comprise a receptacle side wall 205a and a receptacle base 205b. The receptacle base 205b may be provided at the distal end of the receptacle 205. A heating zone 201a may be provided which is configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol generating article. A heater element 301 may be provided in a portion of the main housing 200 and the heater element 301 may extend or project into the heating chamber 201. The heater element 301 may comprise a base portion 301a which may be located in a recess provided in a portion of the body of the aerosol provision device 100.

[0099] The heater element 301 may comprise an elongate heater element such as a pinshaped heater element 301. The pin-shaped heater element 301 may comprise a metal such as stainless steel or aluminium. Alternatively, the pin-shaped heater element 301 may comprise a ceramic material. Other embodiments are contemplated wherein the heater element may comprise a blade-shaped heater element (not shown). The heater element 301 may be inserted, in use, into a distal end of an aerosol generating article which is received within the heating chamber 201 in order to internally heat the aerosol generating article.

[0100] The housing 200 may comprise a housing wall 200a. The housing wall 200a may extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol provision device 100 and may surround the heating chamber 201. The housing wall 200a may, at least in part, define a receiving chamber of the aerosol provision device 100, as the volume which is enclosed within the wall 200a. The housing 200 may comprise a housing base 200b at the distal end of the housing wall 200a. The heater element 301 may be arranged so as upstand from the housing base 200b. The heater element 301 may be arranged so as to protrude through the receptacle base 205b. An aperture 206 may be formed in the receptacle base 205b through which the heater element 301 may protrude. The heater element 301 may be mounted to the receptacle base 205b.

[0101] The aerosol provision device 100 may optionally comprise a removal mechanism 204 which may be removably retained to the main housing 200 of the aerosol provision device 100. However, according to other embodiments the removal mechanism 204 may be omitted. The removal mechanism 204 may comprise a tubular wall portion 207a and a base wall portion 207b. After an aerosol generation session has been completed, the removal mechanism 204 may be removed from the main housing 200 of the aerosol provision device 100. As the removal mechanism 204 is removed, the base wall portion 207b of the removal mechanism 204 may be arranged to engage with a distal end of an article which has been located on the pin-shaped heater element 301 so that as the removal mechanism is removed, the base wall portion 207b of the removal mechanism dislodges a spent aerosol generating article from the heater element 301. As a result, the removal mechanism 204 may assist in removing a spent aerosol generating article from a heater element such as a pin-shaped heater element 301.

[0102] Fig. 3 shows the distal end of an article 50 comprising aerosol generating material located on a pin-shaped heater element 301 of an aerosol provision device 100.

[0103] Fig. 4 shows a one-piece aerosol provision device 400 for generating aerosol from an article 50 comprising aerosol generating material. The aerosol provision device 400 comprises an elongate housing 500 which surrounds and houses various components of the aerosol provision device 400. The aerosol provision device 400 has an opening 504 at one end through which the article 50 may be inserted for heating by the aerosol provision device 400. The article 50 may be fully or partially inserted into the aerosol provision device 400 for heating by the aerosol provision device 400. The aerosol provision device 400 may comprise a user-operable control element 506, such as a button or switch, for operating the aerosol provision device 400. For example, the user-operable control element 506 may be pressed in order to cause the aerosol provision device 400 to enter either a first operating mode or a second operating mode. The aerosol provision device 400 defines a longitudinal axis 509 along which an article 50 may extend when inserted into the aerosol provision device 400. The opening 504 is aligned on the longitudinal axis 509.

[0104] As will be discussed in more detail below, the aerosol provision device 400 may be operated in a first operating mode wherein the desired operating temperature of a heater element may be arranged to step up in a series of e.g. four or more steps during the course of an aerosol generation session which may last, for example, 310 s (5 mins 10 seconds). The aerosol provision device 400 may also be operated in a second operating mode (e.g. a boost mode having a shorter puffing session) wherein the desired operating temperature of the heater element may also be arranged to step up in a series of e.g. four or more steps over a shorter time period of time. For example, the aerosol generation session may be arranged to last, for example, 220s (3 mins 40 seconds) in the second operating mode. The minimum target operating temperature of the heater element during an aerosol generation session may be higher when the aerosol provision device is operated in a second mode of operation.

[0105] Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of an aerosol provision device 400 with an aerosol generating article 50 received within a heating chamber of the aerosol provision device 400. The aerosol provision device 400 comprises a power source 410, a controller 420 and a heating chamber 401 in which the aerosol generating article 50 is removeable received. The aerosol provision device 400 further comprises one or more aerosol generators. The one or more aerosol generators may comprise a heater element 301.

[0106] The aerosol provision device 400 may comprise a resistive heater element such as a resistive heating coil which is arranged to be actuated to heat the heater element 301. An electrical current may be applied directly to the resistive heater element, and the resulting flow of current in the heater element may cause the heater element to be heated by Joule heating. The resistive heater element may comprise resistive material which is configured to generate heat when a suitable electrical current is passed through it. The aerosol provision device 400 may further comprise electrical contacts for supplying electrical current to the resistive material. The resistive heater element may be arranged to transfer thermal energy to the heater element 301 by conduction. Similarly, the heater element 301 may transmit thermal energy to a portion of the aerosol generating article 50 by conduction. The provision of a resistive heating arrangement allows for a compact arrangement to be achieved thereby facilitating device miniaturisation. Furthermore, heating a portion of an aerosol generating article 50 using a resistive heating element such as a pin-shaped heater element 301 wherein the pin-shaped heater element 301 is inserted into a distal end of the aerosol generating article enables a high energy efficiency to be achieved since thermal losses can be minimised.

[0107] Fig. 6 shows in greater detail a heater element 301 according to various embodiments. The heater element 301 comprises an elongate housing 302 having an inner void 308 or cavity and a resistive heater element 350 located within the inner void 308 or cavity. The elongate housing 302 may be formed from a thermally conductive material such as aluminium or stainless steel. The elongate housing 302 may comprise a coating on its outer surface. The elongate housing 302 is configured to transfer heat from the resistive heater element 350 to an aerosol generating article. The elongate housing 302 has a base end 303 and a free end 304. The base end 303 may be attached to a heating chamber. A mount 305 may be provided at the base end 303 to secure the heater element 301. A groove 302a or region of reduced cross sectional diameter may be provided in the elongate housing 302 towards the base end 303 of the elongate housing 302. The groove 302a or region of reduced cross sectional diameter may act as a thermal break which reduces heat bleed from the heater element 301 into the mount 305 or more generally into a mounting point. The inner void 308 may be at least partially filled, for example, with a filler material.

[0108] The filler material may comprise one or more of: (i) a potting compound; (ii) an adhesive; (iii) a thermosetting plastic; or (iv) an epoxy resin. For example, the inner cavity may be at least partially filled with a thermally insulating material. The thermally insulating material may be a potting compound, an adhesive, a thermosetting plastic or an epoxy resin. The potting compound may comprise an epoxy resin. For example, a two-component epoxy may be used consisting of a polymer resin and a hardener which when mixed together causes a chemical reaction which cross-links chemical bonds in the polymer chains to create a tough, rigid and strong compound. The potting compound may alternatively comprise a polyurethane ("PH") e.g. a thermoset plastic. This may comprise a two-component compound consisting of a base resin with an isocyanate curing agent. Alternatively, the potting compound may comprise a silicone. For example, silicone rubber may be utilised comprising a synthetic polysiloxane polymer that uses an additive catalyser (such as platinum) to transition from a liquid to a solid state.

[0109] The heater element 311 has a tip 311 which extends to an apex 312. The resistive heater element 350 may comprise a heating coil 351. The heating coil 351 may comprise an electrically insulative coating, such as a ceramic, to electrically insulate the heating coil 351 from the elongate housing 302. Electrical connection paths may extend from each end of the heater element 350. A base electrical connection path 352 may extend from the distal end of the heater element 350. A return electrical connection path 353 may extend from the proximal end of the heater element 350. The heating coil 351 may be formed from a resistive material, such as a nickel / chrome alloy such as nichrome 80 / 20 (80% nickel, 20% chromium), an iron / chrome / aluminium alloy or a copper / nickel alloy.

[0110] Various heating profiles will now be described with reference to Figs. 7, 8, and 11 to 18.

[0111] Fig. 7 shows a heating profile (sometimes referred to as 'Heating profile Al' herein) according to an embodiment and illustrates a heating profile which may be set by a controller (e.g. controller 420 as shown in Fig. 5) for one or more aerosol generators (or heating element(s)) when an aerosol provision device is operated in a first mode of operation.

[0112] The controller may be configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use based on a first heating profile. The first heating profile may comprise a first time period (e.g. ramp up time period) at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and Tl is greater than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature. The first heating profile further comprises a second time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than about 3 degrees Celsius per second. In one example, TO may be a temperature (e.g. room temperature) of the aerosol generator when it is inactive or switched off for at least some time. In an example embodiment, as described in Table 1 below, the first mode of operation may be arranged to have an aerosol generation session time, such as the second time period, of 310 seconds (i.e. 5 minutes 10 seconds). The overall session of use may last for 315 seconds i.e. the overall session of use may comprise a 5 seconds ramp up time, such as the first time period followed by a 300 second aerosol generation session (second time period).

[0113] In an example embodiment, the first heating profile may be configured such that the rate of change of temperature during the aerosol generation session (second time period) is optimized in order to reduce carbonyl emissions and increase aerosol (e.g. nicotine and / or glycerol emissions) when compared to other heating profiles. This will be explained in further detail with reference to FIGs. 11 to 19.

[0114] In an example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, in a first time period, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise to an initial operating temperature T1 that is equal to 205 degree Celsius. The first time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a second time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 235 degree Celsius. The temperature raises during the second time period at a rate of 0.76 degree Celsius per second. Table 1 below provides details of the example first heating profile as shown in FIG. 7.

[0115] Table 1

[0116]

[0117] In an example embodiment, the control circuit is configured to control heating of the aerosol generator such that carbonyl emissions and aerosol emissions are controlled. According to various embodiments a controller may be arranged to cause an aerosol generator to assume a first target operating temperature as quickly as possible once a particular operating mode has been selected. There may be a short delay of e.g. 5 s during an initial time period wherein the aerosol generator is switched ON but the aerosol generator has not yet reached a desired target operating temperature and hence no aerosol may be generated. This initial time period may be known as the ramp up time of time to first puff. According to embodiments an aerosol generation session may be considered as starting after the end of the ramp up time or time to first puff i.e. at a time t_start. At the end of an aerosol generation session the controller may set a target operating temperature for the aerosol generator which is too low to cause an aerosol to be generated e.g. 20 °C. At the end of an aerosol generation session the aerosol generator may be switched OFF i.e. zero current may be supplied to the aerosol generator.

[0118] The aerosol provision device may comprise a pin-shaped heater element such as shown and described above with reference to Figs. 3, 5 and 6 or a blade-shaped heater element. Alternatively, the heater element may comprise an inductive heater element i.e. the heater element may comprise heating material which is inductively heated by an RF generator.

[0119] The pin-shaped heater element may comprise a cavity and one or more resistive coils may be located within the cavity. An electrical current may be supplied to the one or more resistive coils under the control of the controller and the resistive coils may become hot due to resistive heating. The pin-shaped heater element may comprise a cylindrical body portion with a conical tip. Other embodiments are contemplated wherein the heater element may comprise a blade-shaped heater. The blade-shaped heater may comprise one or more electrical, conductive or resistive tracks and an electrical current may be supplied to the one or more electrical, conductive or resistive tracks and the electrical, conductive or resistive tracks may become hot due to resistive heating. The conductive or resistive tracks may comprise NiChrome (Ni20Cr80).

[0120] Other embodiments are contemplated wherein the heater element may comprise an inductive heater element i.e. the heater element may comprise heating material which is inductively heated by an RF generator. The heater element may therefore form a susceptor comprising heating material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may comprise 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 RF generator may comprise one or more induction coils.

[0121] The aerosol provision device may further comprise a temperature sensor for monitoring or sensing the temperature of the aerosol generator during the course of a session of use. The temperature sensor may comprise a thermocouple, a thermopile or a resistance temperature detector ("RTD") which may also be referred to as a resistance thermometer. Temperature data measured by the temperature sensor may be communicated to the controller. In particular, when the temperature sensor determines that the aerosol generator or heater element has reached a target operating temperature the controller may be arranged to change the supply of power to the aerosol generator or heater element. The controller may comprise a proportional integral derivation ("PID") controller which uses a control feedback loop mechanism to control the temperature of the aerosol generator or heater element based on data, information or signal(s) supplied from the one or more temperature sensors.

[0122] The first time period may correspond to the time it takes for the heating element to reach the initial target temperature, such that it may take a few seconds before the heater element either achieves the first target operating temperature T1 or a lower temperature which is sufficient in order to cause aerosol to be generated. This initial time may be referred to as the ramp up time or time to first puff. An aerosol generation session may be considered as commencing after the ramp up time or time to first puff at a time t_start. The time to t_start may be e.g. 1-20 s. With regards the ramp up time is equal to 5 seconds.

[0123] According to various embodiments the controller may be configured to control the one or more aerosol generators or heater elements so that the average operating temperature of the aerosol generator(s) or heater element(s) progressively increases after time t_start.

[0124] The specific heating profile shown in Fig. 7 relates to a base or standard mode of operation wherein a user is afforded a total aerosol generation session time of approximately 310 s (i.e. 5 minutes 10 seconds). According to this particular embodiment the time from t_0 (when the aerosol generator is switched on) to t_start is 5s and the time from t_start to t_end (when the aerosol generator or heating element is switched OFF) is 310 s.

[0125] In an example embodiment, the initial operating temperature is at least 85% of the target operating temperature. In an example embodiment, the second rate is higher than 0.01 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, wherein the second rate is higher than 0.02 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the second rate is higher than 0.03 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the second rate is lower than 0.9 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the second rate is lower than 0.8 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the second rate is in the range of 0.03 to 0.9 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the second rate is in the range of 0.7 to 0.8 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the target operating temperature is in the range of 200 to 300 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the target operating temperature is higher than 210 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the target operating temperature is in the range of 240 to 260 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the first time period is in the range of 1 second to 6 seconds In an example embodiment, the second time period is in the range of 250 to 350 seconds.

[0126] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is higher than about 0.11 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.12 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.13 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.14 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.15 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.16 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.17 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.18 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.19 degree Celsius per second.

[0127] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.2 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.21 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.23 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.24 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.25 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.26 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.27 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.28 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.29 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.31 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.32 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.33 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.34 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.35 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.36 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.37 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.38 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.39 degree Celsius per second.

[0128] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.41 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.42 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.43 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.44 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.45 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.46 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.47 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.48 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.49 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than 0.50 degree Celsius per second.

[0129] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.51 degree Celsius per second.

[0130] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.52 degree Celsius per second.

[0131] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.53 degree Celsius per second.

[0132] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.54 degree Celsius per second.

[0133] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.55 degree Celsius per second.

[0134] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.56 degree Celsius per second.

[0135] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.57 degree Celsius per second.

[0136] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.58 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.59 degree Celsius per second.

[0137] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.60 degree Celsius per second.

[0138] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.61 degree Celsius per second.

[0139] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.62 degree Celsius per second.

[0140] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.63 degree Celsius per second.

[0141] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.64 degree Celsius per second.

[0142] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.65 degree Celsius per second.

[0143] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.66 degree Celsius per second.

[0144] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.67 degree Celsius per second.

[0145] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.68 degree Celsius per second.

[0146] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.69 degree Celsius per second.

[0147] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.70 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.71 degree Celsius per second.

[0148] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.72 degree Celsius per second.

[0149] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.73 degree Celsius per second.

[0150] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.74 degree Celsius per second.

[0151] In an example embodiment, the first rate is higher than about 0.75 degree Celsius per second.

[0152] In an example embodiment, the first rate is equal to about 0.76 degree Celsius per second.

[0153] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.99 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.98 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.97 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.96 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.95 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.94 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.93 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.92 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.91 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.90 degrees Celsius per second.

[0154] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.89 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.88 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.87 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.86 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.85 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.84 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.83 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.82 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.81 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.80 degrees Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.79 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.78 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.77 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.76 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.75 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.74 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.73 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.72 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.91 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.70 degrees Celsius per second.

[0155] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.69 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.68 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.67 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.66 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.65 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.64 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.63 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.62 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.61 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.60 degrees Celsius per second.

[0156] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.59 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.58 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.57 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.56 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.55 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.54 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.53 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.52 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.51 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.50 degrees Celsius per second.

[0157] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.49 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.48 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.47 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.46 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.45 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.44 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.43 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.42 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.41 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.40 degrees Celsius per second.

[0158] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.39 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.38 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.37 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.36 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.35 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.34 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.33 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.32 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.31 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.30 degrees Celsius per second.

[0159] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.29 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.28 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.27 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.26 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.95 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.24 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.23 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.22 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.21 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.20 degrees Celsius per second.

[0160] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.19 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.18 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.17 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.16 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.15 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.14 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.13 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.12 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.11 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.10 degrees Celsius per second.

[0161] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 2.09 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.08 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.07 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.06 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.05 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.04 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.03 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.02 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.01 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 2.00 degrees Celsius per second.

[0162] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.99 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.98 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.97 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.96 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.95 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.94 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.93 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.92 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.91 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.90 degrees Celsius per second.

[0163] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.89 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.88 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.87 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.86 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.85 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.84 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.83 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.82 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.81 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.80 degrees Celsius per second.

[0164] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.79 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.78 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.77 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.76 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.75 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.74 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.73 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.72 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.91 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.70 degrees Celsius per second.

[0165] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.69 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.68 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.67 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.66 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.65 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.64 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.63 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.62 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.61 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.60 degrees Celsius per second.

[0166] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.59 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.58 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.57 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.56 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.55 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.54 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.53 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.52 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.51 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.50 degrees Celsius per second.

[0167] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.49 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.48 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.47 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.46 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.45 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.44 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.43 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.42 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.41 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.40 degrees Celsius per second.

[0168] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.39 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.38 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.37 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.36 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.35 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.34 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.33 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.32 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.31 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.30 degrees Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.29 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.28 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.27 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.26 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.95 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.24 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.23 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.22 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.21 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.20 degrees Celsius per second.

[0169] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.19 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.18 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.17 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.16 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.15 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.14 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.13 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.12 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.11 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.10 degrees Celsius per second.

[0170] In an example embodiment, the first rate (at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2; second time period) is lower than about 1.09 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.08 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.07 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.06 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.05 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.04 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.03 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.02 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.01 degrees Celsius per second, such as lower than about 1.00 degrees Celsius per second.

[0171] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 1 degree Celsius per second.

[0172] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.99 degree Celsius per second.

[0173] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.98 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.97 degree Celsius per second.

[0174] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.96 degree Celsius per second.

[0175] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.95 degree Celsius per second.

[0176] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.94 degree Celsius per second.

[0177] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.93 degree Celsius per second.

[0178] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.92 degree Celsius per second.

[0179] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.91 degree Celsius per second.

[0180] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.90 degree Celsius per second.

[0181] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.89 degree Celsius per second.

[0182] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.88 degree Celsius per second.

[0183] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.87 degree Celsius per second.

[0184] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.86 degree Celsius per second.

[0185] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.85 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.84 degree Celsius per second.

[0186] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.83 degree Celsius per second.

[0187] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.82 degree Celsius per second.

[0188] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.81 degree Celsius per second.

[0189] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.80 degree Celsius per second.

[0190] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.79 degree Celsius per second.

[0191] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.78 degree Celsius per second.

[0192] In an example embodiment, the first rate is lower than about 0.77 degree Celsius per second.

[0193] In an example embodiment, the first rate is equal to about 0.76 degree Celsius per second.

[0194] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 100 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 110 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 120 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 130 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 140 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 150 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 160 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 170 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 180 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 190 degree Celsius.

[0195] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 185 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 190 degree Celsius.

[0196] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 195 degree Celsius.

[0197] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 200 degree Celsius.

[0198] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 205 degree Celsius.

[0199] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 210 degree Celsius.

[0200] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 215 degree Celsius.

[0201] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 220 degree Celsius.

[0202] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 215 degree Celsius.

[0203] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 220 degree Celsius.

[0204] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 225 degree Celsius.

[0205] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is higher than about 230 degree Celsius.

[0206] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is equal to about 235 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 350 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 340 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 330 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 320 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 310 degree Celsius.

[0207] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 300 degree Celsius.

[0208] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 295 degree Celsius.

[0209] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 290 degree Celsius.

[0210] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 285 degree Celsius.

[0211] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 280 degree Celsius.

[0212] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 275 degree Celsius.

[0213] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 270 degree Celsius.

[0214] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 265 degree Celsius.

[0215] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 260 degree Celsius.

[0216] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 255 degree Celsius.

[0217] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 250 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 245 degree Celsius.

[0218] In an example embodiment, the first target operating temperature is lower than about 240 degree Celsius.

[0219] In an example embodiment, the first time period is higher than 1 second, such as higher than 2 seconds, such as higher than 3 seconds, such as higher than 4 seconds.

[0220] In an example embodiment, the first time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 10 seconds, such as about 5 seconds.

[0221] In an example embodiment, the first time period is lower than 10 seconds, such as lower than 9 seconds, such as lower than 8 seconds, such as lower than 7 seconds, such as lower than 6 seconds.

[0222] In an example embodiment, the first time period is about 5 seconds.

[0223] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 220 seconds, such as higher than about 230 seconds, such as higher than about 240 seconds, such as higher than about 250 seconds.

[0224] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 255 seconds.

[0225] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 265 seconds.

[0226] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 270 seconds.

[0227] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 275 seconds.

[0228] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 280 seconds. In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 285seconds.

[0229] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 290 seconds.

[0230] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 295 seconds.

[0231] In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 300 seconds. In an example embodiment, the second time period is higher than about 305 seconds.

[0232] In an example embodiment, the second time period is equal to about 310 seconds.

[0233] In an example embodiment, the second time period is lower than about 350 seconds, such as lower than about 345 seconds, such as lower than about 340 seconds, such as lower than about 340 seconds, such as lower than about 335 seconds, such as lower than about 330 seconds.

[0234] In an example embodiment, the second time period is lower than about 325 seconds.

[0235] In an example embodiment, the second time period is lower than about 320 seconds.

[0236] In an example embodiment, the second time period is lower than about 315 seconds.

[0237] In an example embodiment, the second time period is equal to about 310 seconds.

[0238] In an example embodiment, the difference between TO and T1 is greater than about 100 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 125 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 135 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 145 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 150 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 175 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 185 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 190 degrees Celsius, such as greater than about 200 degrees Celsius.

[0239] In an example embodiment, first initial operating temperature is at least about 70% of the first target operating temperature.

[0240] In an example embodiment, first initial operating temperature is at least about 75% of the first target operating temperature.

[0241] In an example embodiment, first initial operating temperature is at least about 80% of the first target operating temperature.

[0242] In an example embodiment, first initial operating temperature is at least about 85% of the first target operating temperature. In an example embodiment, first initial operating temperature is at least about 90% of the first target operating temperature.

[0243] In an example embodiment, first initial operating temperature is at least about 95% of the first target operating temperature.

[0244] In an example embodiment, the heating profile comprises at least two temperature spikes during the second time period. The temperature spikes will be explained in further detail with reference to FIG. 8.

[0245] Fig. 8 shows a heating profile according to an embodiment and illustrates a heating profile which may be set by a controller (e.g. controller 420 as shown in Fig. 5) for an aerosol generator when an aerosol provision device is operated in a second mode of operation. The second mode of operation may be arranged to have a shorter aerosol generation session time of e.g. 220 s (i.e. 3 mins). The overall session of use may last for 225 s i.e. the overall session of use may comprise a 5s ramp up time followed by a 220 s aerosol generation session.

[0246] In an example embodiment, the controller is configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a second heating profile, the second heating profile comprising: a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and Tl is greater than 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a second initial operating temperature. The second heating profile further comprises a fourth time period, following the third time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to: to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period; and to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period. The first spike time period and the second spike time period may be spaced by at least a third time period.

[0247] During the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature. The fourth time period is longer than the third time period, and the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period. The fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second. In an example, the temperature T1 is at least about 85% of the T2.

[0248] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than about 0.02 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than about 0.03 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than about 0.04 degree Celsius per second such as higher than about 0.05 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than about 0.06 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than about 0.07 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than about 0.08 degree Celsius per second.

[0249] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is higher than about 0.09 degree Celsius per second.

[0250] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is higher than about 0.095 degree Celsius per second.

[0251] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second.

[0252] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is lower than about 0.9 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.8 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.7 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.6 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.5 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.4 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.3 degree Celsius per second.

[0253] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is lower than about 0.25 degree Celsius per second.

[0254] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is lower than about 0.20 degree Celsius per second.

[0255] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is lower than about 0.15 degree Celsius per second.

[0256] In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is equal to 0.11 degree Celsius per second. In an example embodiment, the fourth rate is in the range of about 0.05 to about 0.3 degree Celsius per second.

[0257] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 100 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 110 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 120 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 130 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 140 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 150 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 160 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 170 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 180 degree Celsius, such as higher than about 190 degree Celsius.

[0258] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 185 degree Celsius.

[0259] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 190 degree Celsius.

[0260] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 195 degree Celsius.

[0261] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 200 degree Celsius.

[0262] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 205 degree Celsius.

[0263] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 210 degree Celsius.

[0264] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 215 degree Celsius.

[0265] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 220 degree Celsius.

[0266] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 215 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 220 degree Celsius.

[0267] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 225 degree Celsius.

[0268] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is higher than about 230 degree Celsius.

[0269] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is equal to about 235 degree Celsius.

[0270] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 350 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 340 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 330 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 320 degree Celsius, such as lower than about 310 degree Celsius.

[0271] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 300 degree Celsius.

[0272] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 295 degree Celsius.

[0273] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 290 degree Celsius.

[0274] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 285 degree Celsius.

[0275] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 280 degree Celsius.

[0276] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 275 degree Celsius.

[0277] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 270 degree Celsius. In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 265 degree Celsius.

[0278] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 260 degree Celsius.

[0279] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 255 degree Celsius.

[0280] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 250 degree Celsius.

[0281] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 245 degree Celsius.

[0282] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is lower than about 240 degree Celsius.

[0283] In an example embodiment, the second target operating temperature is equal to about 235 degree Celsius.

[0284] In an example embodiment, the third time period is higher than 1 second, such as higher than 2 seconds, such as higher than 3 seconds, such as higher than 4 seconds.

[0285] In an example embodiment, the third time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 10 seconds, such as about 5 seconds.

[0286] In an example embodiment, the third time period is lower than 10 seconds, such as lower than 9 seconds, such as lower than 8 seconds, such as lower than 7 seconds, such as lower than 6 seconds.

[0287] In an example embodiment, the third time period is about 5 seconds.

[0288] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 120 seconds, such as higher than about 130 seconds, such as higher than about 140 seconds, such as higher than about 150 seconds.

[0289] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 155 seconds In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 160 seconds.

[0290] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 165 seconds.

[0291] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 170 seconds.

[0292] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 175 seconds.

[0293] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 180 seconds.

[0294] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 185 seconds

[0295] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 190 seconds.

[0296] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 195 seconds.

[0297] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 200 seconds.

[0298] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 210 seconds.

[0299] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is higher than about 215 seconds.

[0300] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is equal to about 220 seconds.

[0301] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is lower than about 300 seconds, such as lower than about 290 seconds, such as lower than about 280 seconds, such as lower than about 270 seconds, such as lower than about 260 seconds, such as lower than about 250 seconds.

[0302] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is lower than about 245 seconds.

[0303] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is lower than about 240 seconds.

[0304] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is lower than about 235 seconds.

[0305] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is lower than about 230 seconds. In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is lower than about 225 seconds.

[0306] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is lower than about 220 seconds.

[0307] In an example embodiment, the fourth time period is equal to about 220 seconds.

[0308] In an example embodiment, as described in Table 2 below, the second mode of operation may be arranged to have an aerosol generation session time, such as the fourth time period, of 220 seconds (i.e. 3 minutes 40 seconds). The overall session of use may last for 225 seconds i.e. the overall session of use may comprise a 5 seconds ramp up time, such as the third time period followed by a 220 second aerosol generation session (fourth time period).

[0309] In an example embodiment, the first heating profile may be configured such that the rate of change of temperature during the aerosol generation session (fourth time period) is optimized in order to reduce carbonyl emissions and increase aerosol (e.g. nicotine and / or glycerol emissions) when compared to other heating profiles. This will be explained in further detail with reference to FIGs. 20 to 28.

[0310] In an example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, in a third time period, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise to an initial operating temperature T1 that is equal to 210 degree Celsius. The third time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a fourth time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 235 degree Celsius. The temperature raises during the fourth time period at a rate of about 0.11 degree Celsius per second. Table 2 below provides details of the example second heating profile as shown in FIG. 8.

[0311] Table 2

[0312]

[0313] In an example embodiment, the control circuit is configured to control heating of the aerosol generator such that carbonyl emissions and aerosol emissions are controlled.

[0314] The aerosol provision device may comprise a pin-shaped heater element as described above with reference to Figs. 3, 5 and 6 or a blade-shaped heater element.

[0315] Alternatively, the heater element may comprise an inductive heater element i.e. the heater element may comprise heating material which is inductively heated by an RF generator.

[0316] The aerosol provision device may comprise a temperature sensor for monitoring or sensing the temperature of the aerosol generator during the course of an aerosol generation session as described above.

[0317] In an example embodiment, a user may activate the aerosol provision device at a time to in order to cause the controller to set the one or more aerosol generators a desired heating profile. For example, a user may activate a user interface (see, for example, user interface 106 as shown in Fig. 1) provided on the aerosol provision device in order cause the one or more aerosol generators to set a desired heating profile for the one or more aerosol generators. Once a user has interacted with the user interface and the controller has set a desired heating profile for the one or more aerosol generators there may be a relatively short time delay (during time tO to t_start) before the aerosol generator reaches a desired temperature and sufficient aerosol can be generated from an aerosol generating article at least partially inserted into the aerosol provision device. The time delay may be referred to as the ramp up time or time to first puff. As shown in Fig. 7 and 8, at the end of the ramp up time or once the time to first puff has passed (e.g. at time t_start) then an aerosol generation session may be considered as having commenced. In the case of the example shown in Fig. 8 the ramp up time or time to first puff (i.e. time to to t_start) is 5 s. However, according to other embodiments the ramp up time or time to first puff may be shorter or longer than 5 s e.g. 1-5 s or 5 to 15 s.

[0318] As will be discussed in more detail below with reference to Fig. 9, embodiments are contemplated wherein an aerosol generating article having a flavour capsule may be heated by an aerosol provision device according to various embodiments as described above, wherein the aerosol provision device may be operated in either a first mode of operation (as shown and described, for example, with reference to Fig. 7) or in a second mode of operation (as shown and described, for example, with reference to Fig. 8). Embodiments are contemplated wherein the first mode of operation provides an optimum sensory experience when the flavour capsule is not fragmented and the second mode of operation provides an optimum sensory experience when the flavour capsule is fragmented. Other embodiments are contemplated wherein the first mode of operation provides an optimum sensory experience when the flavour capsule is fragmented and the second mode provides an optimum sensory experience when the flavour capsule is not fragmented.

[0319] According to embodiments the aerosol provision device may comprise a first aerosol generator comprising a first heater element and a second aerosol generator comprising a second heater element. The first heater element may be provided so as to form a first heating zone which may heat a first portion of an aerosol generating article and the second heater element may be provided so as to form a second heating zone which may heat a second portion of the aerosol generating article.

[0320] For completeness, it should be understood that the various heating profiles shown and described above with reference to Figs. 7 and 8, are particularly suitable when the controller is arranged to control the heating profile of a pin-shaped heater element (or a blade-shaped heater element) which is configured to heat an aerosol generating article comprising a plurality of different sections or portions. The aerosol generating article may, in particular, comprise a cylindrical article comprising e.g. a cylindrical portion of aerosol generating material provided in a distal portion of the article. The cylindrical portion of aerosol generating material may have a diameter of approx. 7.0 mm and a length of 12.0 mm. Upstream of the cylindrical portion of aerosol generating material may be provided a first tubular element having a length of about 7 mm and an outer diameter of approx. 7.0 mm. Upstream of the first tubular element a second tubular element may be provided having a length of about 17 mm and an outer diameter of approx. 7 mm. The cylindrical portion of aerosol generating material, the first tubular element and the second tubular element may be wrapped in one or more outer wrappings which may have a total thickness of approx. 200 pm.

[0321] Fig. 9 shows a side-on cross sectional view of an aerosol generating article 1001 which may be utilised with an aerosol provision device 1003 comprising a pin-shaped heater element 1002a as discussed in more detail above according to various embodiments. The pin-shaped heater element 1002a may be controlled by a controller (not shown) and according to various embodiments a heating profile as shown and described above in relation to Fig. 7,8, 11 and 12 may be set for the heater element 1002a. In particular, the heater element 1002a may be operated in a first mode of operation so that a heating profile as shown in Fig. 7 may be set for the pin-shaped heater element 1002a according to an embodiment. As discussed above, the heating profile may comprise a series of nine steps up during the course of a session of use. The temperature set for the heater element 1002a may be maintained > 320 °C throughout a session of use. According to other embodiments the heater element 1002a may be operated in a second mode of operation so that a heating profile as shown in Fig. 8 may be set for the pin-shaped heater element 1002a. It is noted that whereas a first mode of operation may enable a user to experience an aerosol generation session which lasts for approximately 310 s after the initial time to first puff (t_start), the second mode of operation may enable a user to experience a different sensory experience wherein an aerosol generation session lasts for a shorter period of time e.g. 180 s after the initial time to first puff (t_start). The different sensory experience is in part achieved by ensuring that the average temperature set for the heater element 1002a during the second mode of operation is higher than the average temperature set for the heater element 1002a during the first mode of operation.

[0322] The aerosol generating article 1001 may comprise an aerosol generating section 1004 which in use may be inserted into a receiving portion 1002 of an aerosol provision device 1003. The receiving portion 1002 may comprise a recess in the aerosol provision device 1003. The aerosol provision device 1003 may comprise one or more aerosol generators such as a pin-shaped heater 1002a. The pin-shaped heater 1002a may be located within the receiving portion 1002 of the aerosol provision device 1003 and the pin-shaped heater may be arranged to penetrate the aerosol generating section 1004 of the aerosol generating article 1001 as the aerosol generating article 1001 is inserted, in use, into the aerosol provision device 1003. The pin-shaped heater 1002a may be resistively heated and may comprise a resistive heater element.

[0323] However, alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the heater element 1002a may comprise a blade-shaped heater element. Further embodiments are contemplated wherein the aerosol generator may comprise a heater element formed of a heating material which may be inductively heated and may comprise a susceptor element. A magnetic field generator may be provided which is arranged to induce an alternating electric current in the susceptor element thereby causing heating of the susceptor element. Yet further embodiments are contemplated wherein the aerosol generating section 1004 of the aerosol generating article 1001 may comprise a heating material which may be inductively heated i.e. the article may comprise a susceptor element. For example, according to embodiments the pin-shaped heater element 1002a may be omitted and a susceptor element comprising heating material may be located in the aerosol generating section 1004. According to embodiments a bi-layered susceptor element comprising e.g. a stainless steel layer and a nickel coating layer may be provided.

[0324] The article 1001 may comprise a downstream section 1005 downstream of the aerosol generating section 1004. The downstream section 1005 may comprise or may include a mouthpiece designed to be inserted into a user's mouth in use. The downstream section 1005 may comprise an upstream end 1005a and a downstream end 1005b. The aerosol generating section 1004 may comprise a source of aerosol generating material in the form of a cylindrical rod of aerosol generating material. In other examples, the aerosol generating section 1004 may comprise a cavity for receiving a source of aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material may include at least 5% of an aerosol-former material by weight of the aerosol generating material, calculated on a dry weight basis. The aerosol aerosol-former material may, for example, comprise glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0325] The mouthpiece or downstream portion 1005 may include a first tubular element 1008a arranged immediately downstream of the aerosol generating section 1004. The first tubular element 1008a may define a first hollow cavity. The first tubular element 1008a may be in an abutting relationship with the aerosol generating section 1004. The first tubular element 1008a may have a first tubular wall. The mouthpiece or downstream portion 1005 may also include a second tubular element 1008b immediately downstream of the first tubular element 1008a. The second tubular element 1008b may be in an abutting relationship with the first tubular element 1008a. The second tubular element 1008b may have a second tubular wall having a wall thickness of less than about 320 pm. The second tubular element 1008b may have an axial length of 15-25 mm, for example 17 mm. A body of material 1006 may be provided at the downstream end 1005b of the downstream section 1005. The first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b and the body of material 1006 may each define a cylindrical outer shape and may be arranged end-to-end on a common axis. The first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b, the aerosol generating section 1004 and the body of material 1006 may be arranged to have approximately the same outer diameter.

[0326] The first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b together may define a chamber into which aerosol formed in the aerosol generating section 1004 is drawn and expands and cools. The provision of discrete first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b enables these components to be designed to achieve different functional effects. For instance, the first tubular element 1008a may be effective in reducing movement of the aerosol generating material when the article 1001 is inserted into the recess 1002 and on to the pin-shaped heater element 1002a. For this purpose, the first tubular element 1008a may have a wall thickness of 1.0-3.5 mm e.g. 1.5-2.5 mm. The first tubular element 1008a may assist with providing rigidity to the article 1001. The first tubular element 1008a may also be arranged to encourage aerosol to flow predominantly through an axial region of the second tubular element 1008b in order to assist with aerosol formation. By contrast, the second tubular element 1008b may be arranged to define a relatively large chamber as compared to the first tubular element 1008a thereby providing a greater space into which the aerosol formed in the aerosol generating section 1004 can be drawn into so that the aerosol expands and cools.

[0327] The aerosol generating article 1001 may have a circumference of 22.1 mm corresponding to a diameter of 7.0 mm. The aerosol generating section 1004 may have a length of 12.0 mm, the first tubular element 1008a may have a length of 7.0 mm and the second tubular element may have a length of 17.0 mm. According to various embodiments aerosol generating material provided in the aerosol generating section 1004 may comprise a plurality of strands or strips of aerosol generating material. The strands or strips of aerosol generating material may be arranged such that their longitudinal dimension is substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article 1003. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of reconstituted sheet tobacco material. The wall of the second tubular element 1008b may comprise first and second overlapping paper layers each extending around substantially the whole circumference of the second tubular element 1008b. The first and second overlapping paper layers may each have a thickness of 30-150 pm. The aerosol provision device 1003 may comprise a housing 1009 and an aperture 1010 in the housing 1009 into which the article 1001 may be inserted in use. When the article 1001 is fully inserted into the aerosol provision device 1003, the second tubular element 1008b may extend at least about 5 mm within and at least 8 mm beyond the housing 1009. The article 1001 may be inserted into the aerosol provision device 1003 to an insertion depth of about 25 mm, as shown by arrow 'B' in Fig. 9.

[0328] The article 1001 may comprise one or more ventilation apertures 1012 extending through the second tubular element 1008b at a location in the second tubular element 1008b which is outside the housing 1009 when the article 1001 is fully inserted into the aerosol provision device 1003. The one or more ventilation apertures 1012 may be provided as one or more rows of apertures, such as laser or mechanically formed perforations, circumscribing the article 1001. The cylindrical rod of aerosol generating material may comprise a plurality of strands and / or strips of aerosol generating material which are circumscribed by a wrapper 1015. The wrapper 1015 may be a moisture impermeable wrapper. The plurality of strands or strips of aerosol generating material may be aligned within the aerosol generating section 1004 such that their longitudinal dimension is in parallel alignment with the longitudinal axis, X-X' of the article 1001. Alternatively, the strands or strips may generally be arranged such that their longitudinal dimension aligned is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the article 1001. Where the majority of the strands or strips are arranged in the aerosol generating section 1004 such that their longitudinal axis is parallel with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating section 1004 of the article 1001, the force required to insert an aerosol generator, such as a heater element 1002a into the aerosol generating material may be relatively low. This can result in an article 1001 which is easier to use.

[0329] The rod of aerosol generating material may have a circumference of about 22.1 mm (corresponding to a diameter of 7.0 mm). The first tubular element 1008a may be formed from filamentary tow such as plasticised cellulose acetate tow. The wall of the first tubular element 1008a may be relatively non-porous, such that at least 80% of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating material passes longitudinally through the hollow channels through the tube rather than through the wall material itself. The first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b may be configured to provide a temperature differential of at least 40 °C between a heated volatilised component entering a first upstream end of the first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b and a heated volatilised component exiting a second downstream end of the first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b. This temperature differential across the length of the first and second tubular elements 1008a, 1008b may protect a temperature sensitive body of material 1006 from the high temperatures of the aerosol generating material when it is heated.

[0330] The moisture impermeable wrapper 1015 which circumscribes the rod of aerosol generating material may comprise aluminium foil. The body of material 1006 may be wrapped in a first plug wrap 1007. A second plug wrap 1013 may be provided to connect the body of material 1006, the first tubular element 1008a and second tubular element 1008b. The length of the body of material 1006 may be less than about 15 mm e.g. 12 mm. The body of material 1006 may be formed from filamentary tow. For example, the tow may comprise plasticised cellulose acetate tow or polylactic acid (PLA). As shown in Fig. 10 a tipping paper 1016 may be wrapped around the full length of the downstream portion 1005 and over part of the rod of aerosol generating material. The tipping paper 1016 may have an adhesive on its inner surface to connect the downstream portion 1005 and the rod of aerosol generating material. The rod of aerosol generating material may be wrapped in a wrapper 1015, which forms a first wrapping material, and the tipping paper 1016 may form an outer wrapping material which extends at least partially over the rod of aerosol generating material to connect the downstream portion 1005 and the rod of aerosol generating material. The tipping paper 1016 may extend 5 mm over the rod of aerosol generating material to provide a secure attachment. The article 1001 may have a ventilation level of about 25% of the aerosol drawn through the article 1001. The article 1001 may include ventilation apertures provided into the second tubular element 1008b. A second hollow cavity defined by the second tubular element 1008b may have a diameter of about 6.6 mm and a radius 'r' as shown in Fig. 10 of about 3.3 mm.

[0331] An aerosol modifying agent may be provided within the body of material 1006 in the form of an additive release component. As shown in Fig. 9 , the additive release component may comprise a capsule 1011. However, it should be understood that the capsule 1011 is optional and may be omitted according to various embodiments. If the article 1003 comprises a capsule 1011 then the first plug wrap 1007 may comprise an oil-resistant first plug wrap 1007. The capsule 1011 may comprise a breakable capsule i.e. a solid frangible shell surrounding a liquid payload. The capsule 1011 may comprise a shell encapsulating a liquid agent such as a flavourant or other agent. The shell of the capsule 1011 may be ruptured by a user to release the flavourant or other agent into the body of material 1006. The capsule 1011 may be spherical and may have a diameter of about 3 mm. The aerosol generating material may comprise an aerosol-former material. The aerosol-former material may comprise, for example, glycerol or propylene glycol. The aerosol generating material may comprise an aerosol modifying agent such as menthol.

[0332] Figs. 11 to 13 show example heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a first mode of operation.

[0333] FIG. 11 shows an example heating profile (sometimes referred to as 'Heating profile A2' herein), where the temperature of an aerosol generator is configured to rise, during a first time period, to an initial operating temperature that is equal to 210 degree Celsius. The first time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a second time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise (with a short fall in temperature after around 40 seconds) to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 250 degree Celsius. The temperature raises during the second time period at a rate of 0.12 degree Celsius per second. Table 3 below provides details of the example heating profile as shown in FIG. 11. The specific heating profile shown in Fig. 11 relates to a base or standard mode of operation wherein a user is afforded a total aerosol generation session time of approximately 310 s (i.e. 5 minutes 10 seconds). According to this particular embodiment the time from t_0 (when the aerosol generator is switched on) to t_start is 5s and the time from t_start to t_end (when the aerosol generator or heating element is switched OFF) is 310 s.

[0334] Table 3

[0335]

[0336] FIG. 12 shows an example heating profile (sometimes referred to as 'Heating profile A3' herein), where the temperature of an aerosol generator is configured to rise, during a first time period, to an initial operating temperature that is equal to 205 degree Celsius. The first time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a second time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 213 degree Celsius. The temperature raises during the second time period at a rate of 0.026 degree Celsius per second. Table 4 below provides details of the example heating profile as shown in FIG. 12. The specific heating profile shown in Fig.

[0337] 12 relates to a base or standard mode of operation wherein a user is afforded a total aerosol generation session time of approximately 310 s (i.e. 5 minutes 10 seconds). According to this particular embodiment the time from t_0 (when the aerosol generator is switched on) to t_start is 5s and the time from t_start to t_end (when the aerosol generator or heating element is switched OFF) is 310 s. Table 4

[0338]

[0339] FIG. 13 shows an example heating profile (sometimes referred to as 'Heating profile A4' herein), where the temperature of an aerosol generator is configured to rise, during a first time period, to an initial operating temperature that is equal to 215 degree Celsius. The first time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a second time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise (with a short drop in temperature after about 35 seconds) to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 240 degree Celsius. The temperature raises during the second time period at a rate of 0.026 degree Celsius per second. Table 5 below provides details of the example heating profile as shown in FIG. 13. The specific heating profile shown in Fig. 13 relates to a base or standard mode of operation wherein a user is afforded a total aerosol generation session time of approximately 310 s (i.e. 5 minutes 10 seconds). According to this particular embodiment the time from t_0 (when the aerosol generator is switched on) to t_start is 5s and the time from t_start to t_end (when the aerosol generator or heating element is switched OFF) is 310 s.

[0340] Table 5

[0341]

[0342] FIGs. 14 to 19 show comparisons between various heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a first mode of operation.

[0343] FIG. 14A shows a bar chart of glycerol emissions (mg / stick= amount of glycerol emitted per article of aerosol generating material) test results. Glycerol emissions of a generic market product (ILUMA), indicated by bar 141a, is about 4.62 mg / stick; glycerol emissions of a Heating profile A2 product (heating profile of FIG. 11), indicated by bar 142a, is about 5.42 mg / stick; glycerol emissions of a Heating profile A3 product (heating profile of FIG. 12), indicated by bar 143a, is about 4.72 mg / stick; glycerol emissions of a Heating profile A4 product (heating profile of FIG. 13), indicated by bar 144a, is about 4.97 mg / stick; and glycerol emissions of a Heating profile Al product (heating profile of FIG. 7), indicated by bar 145a, is about 4.97 mg / stick.

[0344] FIG. 14B shows a bar chart of nicotine emissions (mg / stick= amount of nicotine emitted per article of aerosol generating material). As discussed earlier, the sensory experience for users of the aerosol provision device may be enhanced by having higher levels of nicotine emissions. Nicotine emissions of a generic market product (ILUMA), indicated by bar 141a, is about 1.05 mg / stick; nicotine emissions of a Heating profile A2 product (heating profile of FIG. 11), indicated by bar 142a, is about 1.08 mg / stick; nicotine emissions of a Heating profile A3 product (heating profile of FIG. 12), indicated by bar 143a, is about 0.92 mg / stick; nicotine emissions of a Heating profile A4 product (heating profile of FIG. 13), indicated by bar 144a, is about 0.97 mg / stick; and nicotine emissions of a Heating profile Al product (heating profile of FIG. 7), indicated by bar 145a, is about 0.99 mg / stick.

[0345] Based on FIGs. 14A and 14B, the ratio of nicotine to glycerol emissions may be as follows in table 6:

[0346] Table 6

[0347]

[0348] It may be appreciated that that Heating profile A3 is directionally lower in glycerol and nicotine than the other profiles (Heating profile A2, Heating profile A4, Heating profile Al) but higher than the ILUMA product. There is no significant difference in the nicotine to glycerol ratios between the profiles Heating profile A3, Heating profile A2, Heating profile A4, Heating profile Al. However, the individual emissions of glycerol and nicotine is significantly lower in Heating profile A3 when compared to Heating profile A2, Heating profile A4, or Heating profile Al. Furthermore, Heating profile Al provides a significantly improved emissions profile when compared to the generic market product (ILUMA).

[0349] Table 7 below provides an overview of carbonyl emissions reduction of products using Heating profile A2 (heating profile of FIG. 11), Heating profile A3 (heating profile of FIG. 12), Heating profile A4 (heating profile of FIG. 13), and Heating profile Al (heating profile of FIG. 7). The percentage reductions are provided with reference to carbonyl emissions of an industry standard combustible cigarette (known as the 1R6F made by the University of Kentucky).

[0350] Table 7

[0351]

[0352] From the above table 7, it may be appreciated that the Heating profile A3 (heating profile of FIG. 12), provides the best TobReg 9 carbonyl emissions profile (i.e. highest % reductions), and therefore may be likely to meet TobReg 9 toxicant reduction requirements. The order of carbonyl reduction performance may be as follows:

[0353] Heating profile A3 > Heating profile A2 > Heating profile Al > Heating profile A4. Difference in carbonyl reduction performance of Heating profile A2 and heating profile Al is shown to be minor, and the profiles may therefore be comparable.

[0354] FIG. 15A is a plots showing glycerol emissions per puff (mg / puff = amount of glycerol emitted per puff of smoking an article of aerosol generating material). The horizontal axis represents the puff number. Plot 151a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a generic market product (ILUMA); plot 152a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile A2 product (heating profile of FIG. 11); plot 153a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile A3 product (heating profile of FIG.

[0355] 12); plot 154a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile A4 product (heating profile of FIG. 13); and plot 155a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile Al product (heating profile of FIG. 7).

[0356] FIG. 15B is a plots showing nicotine emissions per puff (mg / puff = amount of glycerol emitted per puff of smoking an article of aerosol generating material). The horizontal axis represents the puff number. Plot 151b corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a generic market product (ILUMA); plot 152b corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile A2 product (heating profile of FIG. 11); plot 153b corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile A3 product (heating profile of FIG.

[0357] 12); plot 154a corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile A4 product (heating profile of FIG. 13); and plot 155a corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile Al product (heating profile of FIG. 7).

[0358] It may be appreciated that most profiles follow a similar trajectory in glycerol and nicotine emissions per puff, with all of them being significantly lower in the 1st puff compared to ILUMA.

[0359] Heating profile A3 provides some slight elevation in the glycerol and nicotine in puffs 3 and 4 compared to the others. Heating profile A2 delivers the highest emissions towards the end of the session. Heating profile Al provides higher emissions than Heating profile A3 for both glycerol and nicotine.

[0360] FIG. 16 is a bar chart for comparison of performance of various heating profiles (in the first mode of operation) in the first three puffs, in terms of factors such as impact, visible aerosol, aerosol body, flavour amplitude, and burnt / ashy notes. The bar chart provides an attribute rating for each of the profiles Heating profile A2 (heating profile of FIG. 11), Heating profile A3 (heating profile of FIG. 12), Heating profile A4 (heating profile of FIG. 13), and Heating profile Al (heating profile of FIG. 7). Heating profile A2 may be providing the best overall performance in the first three puffs, but Heating profile Al provides the best improvement in burnt / ashy notes.

[0361] FIG. 17 is a bar chart for comparison of performance of various heating profiles (in the first mode of operation) through the whole smoking session, in terms of factors such as impact, irritation, aerosol body, draw effort, flavour amplitude, flavour consistency, overall consistency, off notes, and drying. The bar chart provides an attribute rating for each of the profiles Heating profile A2 (heating profile of FIG. 11), Heating profile A3 (heating profile of FIG. 12), Heating profile A4 (heating profile of FIG. 13), and Heating profile Al (heating profile of FIG. 7).

[0362] FIG. 18 is a bar chart for comparison of performance of various heating profiles (in the first mode of operation) in the last three puffs, in terms of factors such as impact, visible aerosol, aerosol body, flavour amplitude, and burnt / ashy notes. The bar chart provides an attribute rating for each of the profiles Heating profile A2 (heating profile of FIG. 11), Heating profile A3 (heating profile of FIG. 12), Heating profile A4 (heating profile of FIG. 13), and Heating profile Al (heating profile of FIG. 7). Heating profile Al directionally delivers the most at the end of the session, and both Heating profile A3 and Heating profile Al had the least burnt notes at the end of session.

[0363] FIG. 19 shows a chart of overall preference (e.g. based on focus group surveys) for the various heating profiles. Heating profile A2 is seen to have 43% preference, while Heating profile Al is seen to have 57% preference.

[0364] Based on the data from Table 6 regarding the carbonyl emission reduction, and the performance charts in FIGs. 14 to 19, it would be appreciated that the heating profile for Heating profile Al (heating profile of FIG. 7) not only provides significant improvement in carbonyl emission reduction, it also provides an improved sensory experience (e.g. low burnt / ashy notes, high overall consistency, high flavour consistency, high flavour amplitude, low draw effort, low irritation, high impact).

[0365] Figs. 20 to 22 show example heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a second mode of operation.

[0366] FIG. 20 shows an example heating profile (sometimes referred to as 'Heating profile B2' herein), where the temperature of an aerosol generator is configured to rise, during a first time period, to an initial operating temperature that is equal to 215 degree Celsius. The first time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a second time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 243 degree Celsius. The temperature raises during the second time period at a rate of 0.127 degree Celsius per second. Table 8 below provides details of the example heating profile as shown in FIG. 20. The specific heating profile shown in Fig.

[0367] 20 relates to a second mode of operation wherein a user is afforded a total aerosol generation session time of approximately 220 s (i.e. 3 minutes 40 seconds). According to this particular embodiment the time from t_0 (when the aerosol generator is switched on) to t_start is 5s and the time from t_start to t_end (when the aerosol generator or heating element is switched OFF) is 220 s.

[0368] Table 8

[0369]

[0370] FIG. 21 shows an example heating profile (sometimes referred to as 'Heating profile B3' herein), where the temperature of an aerosol generator is configured to rise, during a first time period, to an initial operating temperature that is equal to 220 degree Celsius. The first time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a second time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to rise (with a drop in temperature at around 50 seconds) to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 234 degree Celsius. The temperature raises during the second time period at a rate (e.g. average rate) of 0.06 degree Celsius per second. Table 9 below provides details of the example heating profile as shown in FIG. 21. The specific heating profile shown in Fig. 21 relates to a second mode of operation wherein a user is afforded a total aerosol generation session time of approximately 220 s (i.e. 3 minutes 40 seconds). According to this particular embodiment the time from t_0 (when the aerosol generator is switched on) to t_start is 5s and the time from t_start to t_end (when the aerosol generator or heating element is switched OFF) is 220 s.

[0371] Table 9

[0372]

[0373]

[0374] FIG. 22 shows an example heating profile (sometimes referred to as 'Heating profile B4 herein), where the temperature of an aerosol generator is configured to rise, during a first time period, to an initial operating temperature that is equal to 218 degree Celsius. The first time period can be considered as a ramp-up time. In a second time period, starting at t_start and ending at t_end, the temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to drop (or remain almost constant) to a target operating temperature T2 that is equal to 216 degree Celsius. The temperature drops during the second time period at a rate of -0.009 degree Celsius per second. Table 10 below provides details of the example heating profile as shown in FIG. 22. The specific heating profile shown in Fig. 22 relates to a second mode of operation wherein a user is afforded a total aerosol generation session time of approximately 220 s (i.e. 3 minutes 40 seconds). According to this particular embodiment the time from t_0 (when the aerosol generator is switched on) to t_start is 5s and the time from t_start to t_end (when the aerosol generator or heating element is switched OFF) is 220 s.

[0375] Table 10

[0376]

[0377] FIGs. 23 to 28 show comparisons between various heating profiles which may be set by a controller for one or more aerosol generators when the aerosol provision device is operated in a second mode of operation.

[0378] FIG. 23A shows a bar chart of glycerol emissions (mg / stick= amount of glycerol emitted per article of aerosol generating material) test results. Glycerol emissions of a Heating profile Bl product (heating profile of FIG. 8), indicated by bar 231a, is about 3.80 mg / stick; glycerol emissions of a Heating profile B2 product (heating profile of FIG. 20), indicated by bar 232a, is about 4.04 mg / stick; glycerol emissions of a Heating profile B3 product (heating profile of FIG. 21), indicated by bar 233a, is about 3.71 mg / stick; and glycerol emissions of a Heating profile B4 product (heating profile of FIG. 23), indicated by bar 234a, is about 3.78 mg / stick.

[0379] FIG. 23B shows a bar chart of nicotine emissions (mg / stick= amount of nicotine emitted per article of aerosol generating material). As discussed earlier, the sensory experience for users of the aerosol provision device may be enhanced by having higher levels of nicotine emissions. Nicotine emissions a Heating profile Bl product (heating profile of FIG. 8), indicated by bar 231b, is about 0.76 mg / stick; nicotine emissions of a Heating profile B2 product (heating profile of FIG. 20), indicated by bar 232b, is about 0.82 mg / stick; nicotine emissions of a Heating profile B3 product (heating profile of FIG. 21), indicated by bar 233b, is about 0.76 mg / stick; and nicotine emissions of a Heating profile B4 product (heating profile of FIG. 23), indicated by bar 234b, is about 0.79 mg / stick.

[0380] Based on FIGs. 23A and 23B, the ratio of nicotine to glycerol emissions may be as follows in table 11:

[0381] Table 11

[0382]

[0383] It may be appreciated that that nicotine to glycerol ratio is higher in Heating profile Bl, Furthermore, Heating profile Bl provides a significantly improved glycerol emissions profile when compared to the Heating profile B3.

[0384] Table 12 below provides an overview of carbonyl emissions reduction of products using Heating profile Bl (heating profile of FIG. 8), Heating profile B2 (heating profile of FIG. 20), Heating profile B3 (heating profile of FIG. 21), and Heating profile B4 (heating profile of FIG. 22). The percentage reductions are provided with reference to carbonyl emissions of an industry standard combustible cigarette (known as the 1R6F made by the University of Kentucky).

[0385] Table 12

[0386]

[0387] It can be seen from the Table 12 that the percentage reduction in carbonyl emissions (e.g. according to TobReg 9) is highest for Heating profile Bl. Heating profile Bl (heating profile of FIG. 8) may therefore be considered a preferred heating profile for operation of an aerosol provision device in a second mode mode of operation.

[0388] It is likely that Heating profile Bl will meet TobReg 9 toxicant reduction requirements. Heating profile Bl is found to generate the most consistent emissions results. The order of carbonyl reduction performance may be as follows: Heating profile Bl > Heating profile B2 > Heating profile B3 > Heating profile B4. The difference between performance between Heating profile B2 and Heating profile B3 profiles may be comparable.

[0389] FIG. 24A is a plots showing glycerol emissions per puff (mg / puff = amount of glycerol emitted per puff of smoking an article of aerosol generating material). The horizontal axis represents the puff number. Plot 241a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile Bl product (heating profile of FIG. 8); plot 242a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile B2 (heating profile of FIG. 20); plot 243a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile B3 (heating profile of FIG. 21); and plot 244a corresponds to glycerol emissions per puff of a Heating profile B4 (heating profile of FIG. 22). FIG. 24B is a plots showing nicotine emissions per puff (mg / puff = amount of glycerol emitted per puff of smoking an article of aerosol generating material). The horizontal axis represents the puff number. Plot 241b corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile Bl product (heating profile of FIG. 8); plot 242a corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile B2 (heating profile of FIG. 20); plot 243a corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile B3 (heating profile of FIG. 21); and plot 244a corresponds to nicotine emissions per puff of a Heating profile B4 (heating profile of FIG. 22).

[0390] It may be appreciated that most profiles follow a similar trajectory in glycerol and nicotine emissions per puff. Heating profile B4 provides elevation on the emissions in the beginning but Heating profile B2 finishes the strongest in emissions towards the end.

[0391] FIG. 25 is a bar chart for comparison of performance of various heating profiles (in the second mode of operation) in the first three puffs, in terms of factors such as impact, visible aerosol, aerosol body, flavour amplitude, and burnt / ashy notes. The bar chart provides an attribute rating for each of the profiles Heating profile Bl (heating profile of FIG. 8), Heating profile B2 (heating profile of FIG. 20), Heating profile B3 (heating profile of FIG. 21), and Heating profile B4 (heating profile of FIG. 22). Heating profile B4 may be providing the best overall performance in the first three puffs, but Heating profile Bl provides the second best overall performance.

[0392] FIG. 26 is a bar chart for comparison of performance of various heating profiles (in the second mode of operation) through the whole smoking session, in terms of factors such as impact, irritation, aerosol body, draw effort, flavour amplitude, flavour consistency, overall consistency, off notes, and drying. The bar chart provides an attribute rating for each of the profiles Heating profile Bl (heating profile of FIG. 8), Heating profile B2 (heating profile of FIG. 20), Heating profile B3 (heating profile of FIG. 21), and Heating profile B4 (heating profile of FIG. 22).

[0393] FIG. 27 is a bar chart for comparison of performance of various heating profiles (in the second mode of operation) in the last three puffs, in terms of factors such as impact, visible aerosol, aerosol body, flavour amplitude, and burnt / ashy notes. The bar chart provides an attribute rating for each of the Heating profile Bl (heating profile of FIG.

[0394] 8), Heating profile B2 (heating profile of FIG. 20), Heating profile B3 (heating profile of FIG. 21), and Heating profile B4 (heating profile of FIG. 22). The profiles are somewhat comparable in this case.

[0395] FIG. 28 shows a chart of overall preference (e.g. based on focus group surveys) for the various heating profiles. Heating profile B4 is seen to have 57% preference, while Heating profile Bl is seen to have 29% preference and Heating profile B3 is seen to have 14% preference.

[0396] Based on the data from Table 12 regarding the carbonyl emission reduction, and the performance charts in FIGs. 23 to 28, it would be appreciated that the heating profile for Heating profile Bl (heating profile of FIG. 8) not only provides significant improvement in carbonyl emission reduction, it also provides an improved sensory experience (e.g. low burnt / ashy notes, high overall consistency, high flavour consistency, high flavour amplitude, low draw effort, low irritation, high impact). Clauses

[0397] The following clauses are not intended to be considered as claims but merely describe embodiments of the invention.

[0398] 1. An aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision system comprising:

[0399] one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; and

[0400] a controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a first heating profile, the first heating profile comprising:

[0401] a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is greater than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature; and

[0402] a second time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than about 3 degrees Celsius per second.

[0403] 2. An aerosol provision system according to clause 1, wherein the first initial operating temperature is at least about 85% of the first target operating temperature.

[0404] 3. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.2 degree Celsius per second.

[0405] 4. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.5 degree Celsius per second.

[0406] 5. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first rate is lower than about 0.9 degree Celsius per second.

[0407] 6. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first rate is lower than about 0.8 degree Celsius per second. 7. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first rate is in the range of about 0.7 to about 0.8 degree Celsius per second.

[0408] 8. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first target operating temperature is in the range of about 200 to about 300 degree Celsius.

[0409] 9. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first target operating temperature is higher than 210 degree Celsius, such as in the range of about 240 to about 260 degrees Celsius.

[0410] 10. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first target operating temperature is about 250 degrees Celsius.

[0411] 11. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 6 seconds, such as about 5 seconds.

[0412] 12. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first time period is about 5 seconds.

[0413] 13. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second time period is in the range of about 250 to about 350 seconds.

[0414] 14. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second time period is about 310 seconds.

[0415] 15. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the control circuit is configured to control heating of the aerosol generator such that carbonyl emissions and aerosol emissions are controlled.

[0416] 16. An aerosol provision system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the heating profile comprises at least two temperature spikes during the second time period.

[0417] 17. An aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising: one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; and

[0418] a controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a second heating profile, the second heating profile comprising:

[0419] a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is greater than 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a second initial operating temperature; and

[0420] a fourth time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to:

[0421] (i) to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period;

[0422] (ii) to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period; wherein the first spike time period and the second spike time period is spaced by at least a third time period. wherein, during the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein T2 is a second target operating temperature, wherein the fourth time period is longer than the third time period, wherein the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period, and wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

[0423] 18. An aerosol provision system according to clause 17, wherein Tl-2 is equal to Tl-3.

[0424] 19. An aerosol provision system according to clause 17, wherein Tl-2 is lower than Tl-3.

[0425] 20. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 19, wherein the Tl is at least about 85% of the T2.

[0426] 21. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one claims 17 to 20, wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second. 22. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 21, wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.04 degree Celsius per second.

[0427] 23. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 22, wherein the fourth rate is lower than about 0.9 degree Celsius per second.

[0428] 24. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 23, wherein the fourth rate is lower than about 0.5 degree Celsius per second.

[0429] 25. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 24, wherein the fourth rate is in the range of about 0.05 to about 0.3 degree Celsius per second.

[0430] 26. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 25, wherein the second target operating temperature is in the range of about 200 to about 300 degree Celsius.

[0431] 27. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 26, wherein the second target operating temperature is higher than about 210 degree Celsius.

[0432] 28. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 27, wherein the second target operating temperature is equal to about 235 degree Celsius.

[0433] 29. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 28, wherein the third time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 6 seconds

[0434] 30. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 29, wherein the third time period is equal to about 5 seconds

[0435] 31. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 30, wherein the fourth time period is in the range of about 150 to about 250 seconds.

[0436] 32. An aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses 17 to 31, wherein the fourth time period is equal to about 220 seconds.

[0437] 33. An aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising: one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; and

[0438] a controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on either a first heating profile or a second heating profile based on an operational mode of the aerosol provision device,

[0439] wherein the first profile comprises:

[0440] a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is higher than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature; and

[0441] a second time period, immediately following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than 3 degrees Celsius per second;

[0442] wherein the second heating profile comprises:

[0443] a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and Tl is higher than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a second initial operating temperature; and

[0444] a fourth time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to:

[0445] (i) to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period;

[0446] (ii) to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period; wherein the first spike time period and the second spike time period is spaced by at least a third time period. wherein, during the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein the fourth time period is longer than the third time period, wherein the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period, and wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

Claims

Claims1. An aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision system comprising:one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; anda controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a first heating profile, the first heating profile comprising:a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is greater than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature; anda second time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than about 3 degrees Celsius per second.

2. An aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first initial operating temperature is at least about 85% of the first target operating temperature.

3. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.2 degree Celsius per second, such as higher than about 0.5 degree Celsius per second.

4. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first rate is lower than about 0.9 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.8 degree Celsius per second.

5. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first rate is in the range of about 0.7 to about 0.8 degree Celsius per second.

6. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first target operating temperature is in the range of about 200 to about 300 degree Celsius.

7. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first target operating temperature is higher than 210 degree Celsius, such as in the range of about 240 to about 260 degrees Celsius.

8. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first target operating temperature is about 250 degrees Celsius.

9. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 6 seconds, such as about 5 seconds.

10. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second time period is in the range of about 250 to about 350 seconds, such as about 310 seconds.

11. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control circuit is configured to control heating of the aerosol generator such that carbonyl emissions and aerosol emissions are controlled.

12. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating profile comprises at least two temperature spikes during the second time period.

13. An aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising:one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; anda controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on a second heating profile, the second heating profile comprising:a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is greater than 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a second initial operating temperature; anda fourth time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to:(Hi) to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period;(iv) to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period; wherein the first spike time period and the second spike time period is spaced by at least a third time period. wherein, during the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein T2 is a second target operating temperature, wherein the fourth time period is longer than the third time period, wherein the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period, and wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

14. An aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 13, wherein Tl-2 is equal to Tl-3.

15. An aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 13, wherein Tl-2 is lower than Tl-3.

16. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one claims 13 to 15, wherein the T1 is at least about 85% of the T2.

17. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one claims 13 to 16, wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second, such as about 0.04 degree Celsius per second.

18. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the fourth rate is lower than about 0.9 degree Celsius per second, such as lower than about 0.5 degree Celsius per second.

19. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the fourth rate is in the range of about 0.05 to about 0.3 degree Celsius per second.

20. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the second target operating temperature is in the range of about 200 to about 300 degree Celsius21. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the second target operating temperature is higher than about 210 degree Celsius.

22. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein the second target operating temperature is equal to about 235 degree Celsius.

23. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein the third time period is in the range of about 1 second to about 6 seconds, such as about 5 seconds24. An aerosol provision system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 24, wherein the fourth time period is in the range of about 150 to about 250 seconds, such as equal to about 220 seconds.

25. An aerosol provision system configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol provision device comprising:one or more aerosol generators arranged to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material; anda controller configured to control the one or more aerosol generators during a session of use, based on either a first heating profile or a second heating profile based on an operational mode of the aerosol provision device,wherein the first profile comprises:a first time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and T1 is higher than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein Tl is a first initial operating temperature; anda second time period, immediately following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from Tl to T2 at a first rate, wherein T2 is a first target operating temperature, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period, and wherein the first rate is higher than about 0.1 degree Celsius per second and lower than 3 degrees Celsius per second;wherein the second heating profile comprises:a third time period at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from TO to Tl, wherein the difference between TO and Tl ishigher than about 100 degrees Celsius, wherein T1 is a second initial operating temperature; anda fourth time period, following the first time period, at which a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to:(iii) to raise to a first operating temperature Tl-1 and drop to a second operating temperature Tl-2 during a first spike time period;(iv) to raise from a third operating temperature Tl-3 to a fourth operating temperature Tl-4, and drop to a fifth operating temperature Tl-5 during a second spike time period; wherein the first spike time period and the second spike time period is spaced by at least a third time period. wherein, during the fourth time period, a temperature of the aerosol generator is configured to raise from T1 to T2 at a fourth rate, wherein the fourth time period is longer than the third time period, wherein the fourth rate is an average rate of change of temperature during the fourth time period, and wherein the fourth rate is higher than about 0.01 degree Celsius per second.

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