Mouthpiece for an aerosol-generating device

Abstract

There is provided a mouthpiece (100, 200, 300) for use in an aerosol-generating device (400). At least a textured portion (106, 206, 306a, 306b) of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. There is also provided an aerosol-generating device (400) comprising such a mouthpiece (100, 200, 300). There is also provided an aerosol-generating system (500) comprising such an aerosol-generating device (400) and a cartridge (10) containing an aerosol-generating substrate.

Description

[0001] MOUTHPIECE FOR AN AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a mouthpiece for use in or with an aerosol-generating device. The present disclosure also relates to a mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating system. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating device or system comprising the mouthpiece.

[0003] Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobaccocontaining substrate, is heated rather than combusted, are known in the art. Typically, in such heated smoking articles an aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from a heat source to a physically separate aerosol-generating substrate or material, which may be located in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

[0004] A number of prior art documents disclose aerosol-generating devices for consuming aerosol-generating articles. Such devices include, for example, electrically heated aerosolgenerating devices in which an aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from one or more electrical heater elements of the aerosol-generating device to the aerosol-generating substrate of a heated aerosol-generating article. For example, electrically heated aerosol-generating devices have been proposed that comprise an internal heater blade which is adapted to be inserted into the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0005] Use of an aerosol-generating article in combination with an external heating system is also known. For example, WO 2020 / 115151 describes the provision of one or more heating elements arranged around the periphery of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in a cavity of the aerosol-generating device. As an alternative, inductively heatable aerosol-generating articles comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and a susceptor arranged within the aerosol-generating substrate have been discussed in WO 2015 / 176898.

[0006] Handheld electrically operated aerosol-generating systems comprising a cartridge comprising a substrate compartment containing an aerosol-generating substrate and an electrically operated heater configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol, and a device portion comprising control electronics and a power supply for supplying power to the electrically operated heater, are known.

[0007] The mouthpiece of an aerosol-generating device or system is a primary contact point for a user’s lips and hands. There is need for the mouthpiece to adequately emulate the tactile characteristics of conventional smoking articles when the aerosol-generating device or system is being handled by a user. According to the present disclosure, there is provided a mouthpiece for use in an aerosolgenerating device or system. An external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. At least a portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. At least a portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece may be textured and may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. At least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres.

[0008] According to the present invention, there is provided a mouthpiece for use in an aerosolgenerating device or system. At least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres.

[0009] The present disclosure provides a method of manufacturing a mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating device or system. The method may comprise a step of injection molding or die casting to form the mouthpiece. The step of injection molding or die casting may provide at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece having an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. In other words, the method may comprise providing at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece that has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres through injection molding or die casting. This means that the average surface roughness of the textured portion may be defined by the mold used in the injection molding or die casting step or process. In other words, the step of injection molding or die casting directly produces said textured portion of the external surface having an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. As result, no further processing steps may be required after molding or casting to provide the desired surface characteristics of the textured portion, such as the average surface roughness. The present disclosure also provides a mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating device or system manufactured in accordance with the abovementioned method. In other words, the present disclosure provides a mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating device or system, wherein at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres, and wherein such a textured portion is provided through injection molding or die casting.

[0010] According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a mouthpiece in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0011] Advantageously, providing such a mouthpiece comprising at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece that has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres may enhance user comfort and tactile characteristics of the mouthpiece and the aerosol-generating device or system it is used with or in. When touched with the hands or lips of a user, such a textured surface of the mouthpiece may provide tactile characteristics that reproduce the tactile characteristics such a user would have experienced when touching or using a conventional smoking article. Further, such textured portion or surface of the mouthpiece may provide a higher friction coefficient and thus enhance the frictional engagement with the user’s lips or hands so as to reduce any inadvertent movement of the aerosol-generating device or system and provide a consistent user experience during use or handling.

[0012] Further, the textured surface, particularly having a greater average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres, may reduce any discomfort associated with any heat being transmitted to the external surface of the mouthpiece by promoting cooling through the increased effective surface area, thereby reducing the sensation of heat upon contact with a user’s lips.

[0013] As used herein, the term “average surface roughness” refers to the arithmetic mean of the absolute values of height deviations of a surface from a mean line of the height of the surface. The average surface roughness may be measured in accordance with ISO 21920-2:2021 , ISO 25178-2:2021 , or ISO 12085:1996. The average surface roughness may be referred to as Ra and is expressed herein in micrometers (microns or pm).

[0014] As used herein, the expression “external surface of the mouthpiece” preferably refers to the outer or outward facing surface or surfaces of the mouthpiece, particularly that or those which can be readily seen or can be contacted by a user when the mouthpiece is in use in or with an aerosol-generating device.

[0015] As used herein, the term “cartridge” relates to a component that interacts with an aerosolgenerating device to generate an aerosol.

[0016] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” relates to a device that interacts with a cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0017] The aerosol-generating device has a proximal end through which, in use, an aerosol exits the aerosol-generating device for delivery to a user. The proximal end of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the downstream end or mouth end of the aerosol-generating device. In use, a user draws directly or indirectly on the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device in order to inhale an aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating device. The proximal end of the mouthpiece may define the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0018] The aerosol-generating device has a distal end. The distal end is opposite the proximal end. The distal end of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the upstream end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0019] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating substrate” relates to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-generating substrate. As used herein, the term “aerosol” is used to describe a dispersion of solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets, in a gas. The aerosol may be visible or invisible. The aerosol may include vapours of substances that are ordinarily liquid or solid at room temperature as well as solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets.

[0020] When in use or part of an aerosol-generating device, the mouthpiece may define the mouth end of the aerosol-generating device. During use, aerosol may be configured to exit the aerosol-generating device via the mouthpiece. Aerosol may be configured to be drawn from the aerosol-generating device via the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece has a proximal or mouth end. The mouthpiece has a distal end. The mouthpiece extends between the distal end and the proximal or mouth end.

[0021] The mouthpiece may comprise a mouth end portion. The mouth end portion may define or comprise the mouth end of the mouthpiece.

[0022] The mouthpiece of the present invention may be engageable to an aerosol-generating device. In other words, the mouthpiece of the present invention may be engageable to a housing of an aerosol-generating device. The mouthpiece may be coupleable to an aerosol-generating device. In other words, the mouthpiece may be coupleable to a housing of an aerosol-generating device. The mouthpiece may be removably coupleable to an aerosol-generating device. In other words, the mouthpiece may be removably coupleable to a housing of an aerosol-generating device.

[0023] When in use or part of an aerosol-generating device, the mouthpiece may define a device outlet or device air outlet of the aerosol-generating device.

[0024] At least a portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece is textured. At least such a portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece defines a textured portion. As used herein, the expression “textured portion” refers to at least a portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece that is textured and has an average surface roughness. Such a “textured portion” may be a portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece that is rough and may or may not comprise a pattern.

[0025] At least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. At least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.8 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 1.6 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 3.2 micrometres.

[0026] At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 25 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 12.5 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 6.3 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 3.2 micrometres.

[0027] At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 25 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0028] Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres. Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 1.6 micrometres. Such ranges of average surface roughness in particular have been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0029] At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 25 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0030] Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres. Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 1.6 micrometres. Such ranges of average surface roughness in particular have been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0031] At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 25 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0032] Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. More preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres. Such ranges of average surface roughness in particular have been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0033] At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 25 micrometres. At least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0034] Preferably, at least the textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. Such a range of average surface roughness in particular has been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0035] The average surface roughness of the external surface of the mouthpiece may vary. The average surface roughness of the textured portion may vary. The average surface roughness of the external surface of the mouthpiece may vary gradually along the length of the mouthpiece. The average surface roughness of the textured portion may vary gradually along the length of the mouthpiece. A textured portion of the external surface may extend around the mouthpiece. A textured portion of the external surface may extend around the entirety of the mouthpiece. A textured portion of the external surface may extend around the periphery of the mouthpiece. A textured portion of the external surface may extend around the entire periphery of the mouthpiece.

[0036] The external surface of the mouthpiece may comprise two or more textured portions. At least two textured portions may have different average surface roughness values to each other. Each of such two or more textured portions may have an average surface roughness corresponding to any of the ranges or values set out in the present disclosure in relation to a textured portion.

[0037] One or more textured portions of the external surface of the mouthpiece may define at least 10 percent of the external surface area of the mouthpiece. One or more textured portions of the external surface of the mouthpiece may define at least 25 percent of the external surface area of the mouthpiece. One or more textured portions of the external surface of the mouthpiece may define at least 50 percent of the external surface area of the mouthpiece. One or more textured portions of the external surface of the mouthpiece may define at least 75 percent of the external surface area of the mouthpiece. One or more textured portions of the external surface of the mouthpiece may define all of the external surface area of the mouthpiece. In other words, the whole external surface area of the mouthpiece may be textured.

[0038] The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.8 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 1 .6 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 3.2 micrometres.

[0039] The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 25 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 12.5 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 6.3 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness less than or equal to 3.2 micrometres.

[0040] The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 25 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0041] Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres. Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 1.6 micrometres. Such ranges of average surface roughness in particular have been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0042] The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 25 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0043] Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres. Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 0.8 micrometres and 1.6 micrometres. Such ranges of average surface roughness in particular have been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0044] The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1 .6 micrometres and 25 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0045] Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres. Such ranges of average surface roughness in particular have been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0046] The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 25 micrometres. The external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres.

[0047] Preferably, the external surface of the mouthpiece may have an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres. Such a range of average surface roughness in particular has been found to advantageously ensure that the enhanced tactile characteristics, enhanced frictional engagement, and improved thermal management discussed above are provided.

[0048] A portion of or all of the external surface of the mouthpiece may have the average surface roughness corresponding to any of the ranges discussed in the present disclosure.

[0049] A textured portion may be provided at a mouth end portion of the mouthpiece or a mouth end edge portion of the mouthpiece. A textured portion may extend form the mouth end of the mouthpiece. The external surface of the mouth end portion or mouth end edge portion of the mouthpiece may be a textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece. Such a textured portion may have an average surface roughness corresponding to any of the ranges or values discussed in the present disclosure.

[0050] A textured portion may be defined by a portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece that is machined, etched, molded, printed, or cast. As mentioned above, such a textured portion may be provided through injection molding or die casting. In other words, such a textured portion may be provided through forming the mouthpiece through injection molding or die casting.

[0051] A textured portion may be defined by a coating of the mouthpiece. The coating may comprise a plurality of particles. Such a plurality of particles may comprise one or more of silica, ceramic, or aluminium oxide. The coating may comprise a paint or varnish. The paint may be mixed with the plurality of particles. Preferably, the paint is polyurethane or epoxy based.

[0052] The coating may be formed by one or more of physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, thermal spraying, electroplating, and anodising.

[0053] The mouthpiece may comprise one or more of a metal, plastic and a plant based material. The mouthpiece may comprise one or more of polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), copolyester, polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT), polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PCTG or Tritan), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), aluminium, stainless steel, wood, and bamboo. The mouthpiece may comprise a removable film or band. A textured portion may be defined by such a removable film or band of the mouthpiece. The removable film or band may comprise one or more of silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, and flexible polymers.

[0054] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device as described in the present disclosure and a cartridge for use with the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive the cartridge. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat the aerosolgenerating substrate of the cartridge. The cartridge may contain an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate of the cartridge.

[0055] The cartridge may comprise a housing defining a substrate compartment. The aerosolgenerating substrate may be received within the substrate compartment The cartridge may comprise the or an aerosol-generating substrate received within the substrate compartment.

[0056] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply.

[0057] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device cavity configured to receive at least a part of the cartridge. The device cavity may have a closed end and an open end. The cartridge may be insertable into the device cavity via the open end. The device cavity may have substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the cartridge.

[0058] The device cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be at least partially defined by a device housing. The device cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be at least partially defined by the mouthpiece. The device cavity of the aerosol-generating may be defined by the device housing and the mouthpiece.

[0059] The device housing may comprise one or more of a metal, a plastic, a composite and a metal alloy. Preferably, the device housing comprises one or more of polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), copolyester, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), aluminium, an aluminium alloy, magnesium and carbon fibre reinforced polymer.

[0060] A heater element may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the cartridge is configured to interact with the heater element to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0061] The aerosol-generating system may comprise the heater element. Either the cartridge or the aerosol-generating device may comprise the heater element.

[0062] The cartridge may comprise the heater element. In other words, preferably the heater element is provided as part of the cartridge. In particular, preferably the heater element is arranged in the substrate compartment. The heater element may be an internal heater element. The internal heater element may be embedded in or at least partially surrounded by the aerosol-generating substrate. The internal heater element may be a pin or a blade.

[0063] The heater element may be a planar heater element. The heater element may comprise one or more heating surfaces for heating the aerosol-generating substrate to form an aerosol. The one or more heating surfaces may be planar heating surfaces. The heater element may be substantially or entirely planar. The heater element may be oriented so that a plane of the heater element is aligned with the width of the cartridge.

[0064] The heater element may have a serpentine shape. The heater element may comprise a plurality of segments. The heater element may comprise a plurality of parallel segments extending along the substrate compartment. The heater element may be a self-supporting track which extends through the substrate compartment.

[0065] The heater element may an external heater element. The external heater element may at least partially surround the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0066] The heater element may be a resistive heater element. The heater element may comprise an electrically resistive material.

[0067] The heater element may be formed from an iron-based alloy. The heater element may be formed from a nickel alloy. The heater element may be formed from a ceramic. The heater element may be formed from stainless steel. The heater element may be formed from SS316L stainless steel iron aluminides. The heater element may be formed from nichrome. The heater element may be formed from a ceramic coated metal.

[0068] The heater element may have a length of greater than or equal to 13 millimetres, greater than or equal to 14 millimetres, greater than or equal to 15 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 16 millimetres.

[0069] The heater element may have a length of less than or equal to 20 millimetres, less than or equal to 19 millimetres, less than or equal to 18 millimetres, or less than or equal to 17 millimetres.

[0070] For example, the heater element may have a length of between 13 millimetres and 20 millimetres, between 14 millimetres and 19 millimetres, between 15 millimetres and 18 millimetres, or between 16 millimetres and 17 millimetres.

[0071] The heater element may comprise a susceptor element.

[0072] As used herein, the term “susceptor” denotes a material that is capable of being heated when penetrated by a varying magnetic field.

[0073] The susceptor element may be embedded in or at least partially surrounded by the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0074] The susceptor element may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the susceptor element may comprise a metal or carbon. The susceptor element may comprise or consist of a ferromagnetic material, for example a ferromagnetic alloy, ferritic iron, or a ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel. A suitable material may be, or comprise, aluminium. The susceptor element may be formed from 400 series stainless steels, for example grade 410, or grade 420, or grade 430 stainless steel.

[0075] Where a susceptor element is provided, the cartridge or an aerosol-generating device may comprise an inductor coil arranged to inductively heat the susceptor element. The inductor coil may at least partly circumscribe the susceptor element.

[0076] The heater element may comprise a dielectric heater element. In particular, the dielectric heater element may comprise a dielectric material. The dielectric heater element may be configured to use radio-frequency (RF) electric waves that cause a dipole interaction with the dielectric material to heat the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0077] The heater element may comprise an infrared heater element. The infrared heater element may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate using infrared electromagnetic radiation.

[0078] The power supply may be configured to provide power to the heater element to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. The power supply may be a DC power supply. The power supply may a battery. The power supply may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for the storage of enough energy for one or more user operations, for example one or more aerosol-generating experiences.

[0079] As discussed above, the cartridge is preferably configured to interact with the heater element to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0080] The aerosol-generating device may comprise the heater element. In other words, the heater element may be provided as part of the aerosol-generating device. The heater element may be configured for insertion into the substrate compartment of the cartridge.

[0081] Alternatively or in addition, the heater element may be located around the periphery of the device cavity. The heater element may circumscribe the cartridge when the cartridge is at least party received in the device cavity.

[0082] The heater element may comprise one of a resistive heater element, a susceptor element, an infrared heater element or a dielectric heater element as described herein.

[0083] Where a susceptor element is provided either as part of the cartridge or the aerosolgenerating device, the aerosol-generating device may comprise the inductor coil arranged to inductively heat the susceptor element. Where the aerosol-generating device comprises a device cavity, the inductor coil may at least partly circumscribe the device cavity. The inductor coil may be arranged to coaxially circumscribe the device cavity.

[0084] The aerosol-generating device may further comprise a controller. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heater element. The controller may be electrically connected to the power supply. The controller may be configured to control the power output from the power supply to control whether the heater element is on or off. The controller may be configured to control the power output from the power supply to control the temperature of the heater element.

[0085] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a mouthpiece according to the present disclosure. During use, a user may draw on the mouthpiece to receive aerosol generated in the cartridge.

[0086] The cartridge may be configured to be at least partially received in the device cavity and at least partially received in the mouthpiece.

[0087] The mouthpiece may be configured to move between an open position and a closed position. When the mouthpiece is in the open position, the cartridge may be inserted into or removed from the device cavity. When the mouthpiece is in the closed position, the cartridge may be secured within the aerosol-generating device. When the mouthpiece is in the closed position, the cartridge may be contained within and surrounded by the mouthpiece and the device cavity.

[0088] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device air inlet. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device air outlet.

[0089] The device air inlet may be disposed at a distal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0090] The mouthpiece may comprise the device air outlet. The device air outlet may be disposed at a proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0091] The cartridge and the aerosol-generating device may be configured such that the one or more electrical contacts of the cartridge electrically connect to corresponding electrical contacts of the aerosol-generating device.

[0092] The electrical contacts of the aerosol-generating device may be electrically connected to the power supply.

[0093] The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that, during use, air passes into the device air inlet, through the device cavity into the one or more air inlets of the cartridge, through the aerosol-generating substrate in the substrate compartment. The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that, during use, aerosol generated in the substrate compartment passes in air flow to the one or more air outlets of the cartridge, and subsequently to the device air outlet.

[0094] The cartridge housing may comprise a material selected from one or more of a metal, a metal alloy, a composite, a ceramic and a thermoplastic.

[0095] The cartridge housing may comprise a material selected from one or more of one or more of Polyetheretherketone, Polyphenylene Sulfide, Polyamide, Stainless Steel, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer, Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer, Aluminum Oxide, Zirconium Oxide, Inconel, a nickel based alloy and an iron based alloy.

[0096] The cartridge housing may be non-porous. The cartridge housing may comprise a first portion and a second portion. The cartridge housing may comprise a peripheral wall extending between the first portion and the second portion. The first portion may be a proximal end plug. The second portion may be a distal end plug.

[0097] In other words, the cartridge housing may comprise a proximal end plug and a distal end plug, and the cartridge housing may comprise a peripheral wall extending between the proximal end plug and the distal end plug.

[0098] As used herein, the terms “proximal” and “distal” are used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosolgenerating systems according to the disclosure. Cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating systems may comprise a proximal end through which, in use, an aerosol exits. Cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating systems may comprise a distal end opposite the proximal end. The proximal end may also be referred to as the mouth end or downstream end. The distal end may also be referred to as the upstream end.

[0099] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” describe the relative positions of elements, or portions of elements, of the cartridges, aerosol-generating devices or aerosolgenerating systems in relation to the direction in which the aerosol is transported through the cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating systems during use.

[0100] The proximal end plug may define the proximal end of the cartridge housing.

[0101] The distal end plug may define the distal end of the cartridge housing.

[0102] The peripheral wall may extend from the proximal end of the cartridge housing to the distal end of the cartridge housing. The peripheral wall may surround the substrate compartment. The proximal end plug, the distal end plug and the peripheral wall may define the substrate compartment.

[0103] The proximal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall. The proximal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall by an interference fit.

[0104] The distal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall. The distal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall by an interference fit.

[0105] The cartridge housing may comprise a peripheral wall defining a first open end in which the proximal end plug is received and a second open end in which the distal end plug is received.

[0106] The proximal end plug may extend into the peripheral wall. The distal end plug may extend into the peripheral wall.

[0107] The substrate compartment may extend between the distal end plug and the proximal end plug.

[0108] The peripheral wall may comprise a rough area. In other words, at least part of the external surface of the peripheral wall may comprise the rough area. The entirety of the external surface of the peripheral wall may comprise the rough area. One or both of the proximal end plug and the distal end plug may comprise the rough area. In other words, at least part of the external surface of one or both of the proximal end plug and the distal end plug may comprise the rough area.

[0109] The peripheral wall, the proximal end plug and the distal end plug may comprise the rough area.

[0110] The heater element may be fixedly attached to the cartridge housing.

[0111] The distal end plug may comprise the heater element. Preferably, the heater element extends from the distal end plug into the substrate compartment. The heater element may be fixedly attached to the distal end plug.

[0112] The distal end plug may comprise one or more electrical contacts arranged at an external surface of the cartridge. The one or more electrical contacts may be connected to the heater element. The one or more electrical contacts may be configured to interact with an aerosolgenerating device.

[0113] The cartridge housing may comprise one or more air inlets. Preferably, the one or more air inlets are in the distal end plug. The one or more air inlets may be a single air inlet. The one or more air inlets may be a plurality of air inlets.

[0114] The cartridge housing may comprise one or more air outlets. Preferably, the one or more air outlets are in the proximal end plug. The one or more air outlets may be a single air outlet. The one or more air outlets may be a plurality of air outlets.

[0115] The substrate compartment may extend between the one or more air inlets and the one or more air outlets.

[0116] The cartridge housing may have a length of greater than or equal to 10 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 12 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 14 millimetres.

[0117] The cartridge housing may have a length of less than or equal to 40 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 30 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 20 millimetres.

[0118] For example, the cartridge housing may have a length of between 10 millimetres and 40 millimetres, preferably between 10 millimetres and 30 millimetres, or most preferably between 14 millimetres and 20 millimetres.

[0119] As used herein, the term “length” is used to describe the maximum dimension of elements, or portions of elements, of cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating systems according to the disclosure. The length may be defined in the longitudinal direction or along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge. In particular, the length of the cartridge housing may refer to the distance between the proximal end of the proximal end plug and the distal end of the distal end plug of the cartridge.

[0120] As used herein, the term “longitudinal” refers to the direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating systems according to the disclosure, which extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating systems.

[0121] The cartridge housing may have a width of greater than or equal to 5 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 6 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 7 millimetres.

[0122] The cartridge housing may have a width of less than or equal to 20 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 15 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 12 millimetres.

[0123] For example, the cartridge housing may have a width of between 5 millimetres and 20 millimetres, preferably between 5 millimetres and 15 millimetres, or most preferably between 7 millimetres and 12 millimetres.

[0124] As used herein, the term “width” is used to describe the maximum transverse dimension of elements, or portions of elements, of cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosolgenerating systems according to the disclosure. In particular, the width of the cartridge housing may be perpendicular to the length of the cartridge housing.

[0125] As used herein, the term “transverse” is used to describe the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or the length of cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosolgenerating systems according to the disclosure.

[0126] The cartridge housing may have a thickness of greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 4 millimetres.

[0127] The cartridge housing may have a thickness of less than or equal to 15 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 10 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 8 millimetres.

[0128] For example, the cartridge housing may have a thickness of between 2 millimetres and 15 millimetres, preferably between 3 millimetres and 10 millimetres, or most preferably between 4 millimetres and 8 millimetres.

[0129] As used herein, the term “thickness” is used to describe the smallest transverse dimension of elements, or portions of elements, of cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosolgenerating systems according to the disclosure.

[0130] The peripheral wall of the cartridge housing may have a thickness of greater than or equal to 1 millimetre, preferably greater than or equal to 2 millimetre, or most preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetre.

[0131] The peripheral wall of the cartridge housing may have a thickness of less than or equal to 7 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 5 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 4 millimetres. For example, the peripheral wall of the cartridge housing may have a thickness of between 1 millimetre and 7 millimetres, preferably between 1 millimetre and 5 millimetres, or most preferably between 1 millimetre and 4 millimetres.

[0132] The proximal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 4 millimetres.

[0133] The proximal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of less than or equal to 15 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 10 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 8 millimetres.

[0134] For example, the proximal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of between 2 millimetres and 15 millimetres, preferably between 3 millimetres and 10 millimetres, or most preferably between 4 millimetres and 8 millimetres.

[0135] The distal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 4 millimetres.

[0136] The distal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of less than or equal to 10 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 8 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 6 millimetres.

[0137] For example, the distal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of between 2 millimetres and 10 millimetres, preferably between 3 millimetres and 8 millimetres, or most preferably between 4 millimetres and 6 millimetres.

[0138] The length of the proximal end plug along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge is preferably greater than the length of the distal end plug along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0139] The aerosol-generating substrate may be a liquid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0140] Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate is a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0141] As used herein, the term “solid” refers to an aerosol-generating substrate that is not a liquid or a gas and which does not flow such that it retains its shape and form at room temperature. In the context of the present invention, the term “solid” encompasses gel materials and compositions.

[0142] The aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of one or more sheets of a solid aerosol-generating substrate. Preferably, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate comprise at least one aerosol former and at least one of nicotine and tobacco.

[0143] As used herein, the term “sheet” describes a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than the thickness thereof.

[0144] The one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be provided on a suitable carrier element. For example, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be deposited onto at least one surface a sheet of an inert carrier material, such as paper or cardboard. This may provide improved rigidity to the one or more sheets of solid aerosolgenerating substrate, which may facilitate the process of filling the cartridge with the one or more sheets during production.

[0145] The one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of one or more gathered sheets. As used herein, the term “gathered” denotes that a sheet is convoluted, folded, or otherwise compressed or constricted substantially transversely to a defined axis.

[0146] Alternatively or in addition, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of one or more crimped sheets, preferably, one or more gathered crimped sheets. As used herein, the term “crimped” denotes a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations.

[0147] The one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more sheets of homogenised plant material, preferably homogenised tobacco material. The aerosol former content of the homogenised tobacco material is preferably within the ranges defined above for aerosol-generating substrate having a relatively low aerosol former content.

[0148] Alternatively or in addition, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more sheets comprising an aerosol-generating film, comprising a cellulosic based film forming agent, nicotine and the aerosol former. The aerosol-generating film may further comprise a cellulose based strengthening agent. The aerosol-generating film may further comprise water, preferably 30 percent by weight of less of water.

[0149] As used herein, the term “film” is used to describe a solid laminar element having a thickness that is less than the width or length thereof. The film may be self-supporting.

[0150] The aerosol former content of the aerosol-generating film is within the ranges defined above for aerosol-generating substrates having a relatively high aerosol former content.

[0151] In the context of the present invention the term “cellulose based film-forming agent” is used to describe a cellulosic polymer capable, by itself or in the presence of an auxiliary thickening agent, of forming a continuous film. Preferably, the cellulose based film-forming agent is selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), methylcellulose (MC), ethylcellulose (EC), hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), and combinations thereof. In particularly preferred embodiments, the cellulose based film-forming agent is HPMC.

[0152] Suitable aerosol-generating films for use as the aerosol-generating substrate are described in WC-A-2020 / 207733 and WO-A-2022 / 074157.

[0153] Alternatively or in addition, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more sheets comprising a gel composition that includes nicotine, at least one gelling agent and the aerosol former. The gel composition is preferably tobacco free.

[0154] Suitable gel compositions for use as the aerosol-generating substrate are described in

[0155] WO-A-2021 / 170642. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of a shredded aerosol-generating substrate. Preferably, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate comprises at least one aerosol former and at least one of tobacco and nicotine.

[0156] As used herein, the term “shredded” describes an aerosol-generating substrate that is in the form of a plurality of shreds or strips. In general, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate is formed by the cutting or shredding of a larger portion of the aerosol-generating substrate, such as a sheet, leaf or other piece of plant material. The individual strips or strands are typically elongate in form, with a length that is greater than the width and thickness.

[0157] The shredded aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of shredded tobacco material, such as cut filler. Alternatively, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of a shredded sheet of homogenised plant material, such as a homogenised tobacco material. Alternatively, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of a shredded non-tobacco material, as described in more detail below.

[0158] As used herein, the term “cut filler” is used to describe to a blend of shredded plant material, such as tobacco plant material, including, in particular, one or more of leaf lamina, processed stems and ribs, homogenised plant material.

[0159] Below, there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0160] Example EX1. A mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating device, wherein an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres, or at least a portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres, or at least a portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece is textured and has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres, or at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres.

[0161] Example EX2. A mouthpiece according to example EX1 , wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.8 micrometres, preferably wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 1 .6 micrometres.

[0162] Example EX3. A mouthpiece according to example EX1 , wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 3.2 micrometres.

[0163] Example EX4. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness less than or equal to 25 micrometres, preferably less than or equal to 12.5 micrometres.

[0164] Example EX5. A mouthpiece according to any one of examples EX1 to EX3, wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness less than or equal to 6.3 micrometres.

[0165] Example EX6. A mouthpiece according to example EX1 or EX2, wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness less than or equal to 3.2 micrometres.

[0166] Example EX7. A mouthpiece according to example EX1 , wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness between 0.5 micrometres and 25 micrometres, optionally between 0.5 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres, optionally between 0.5 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres, optionally between 0.5 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres, optionally between 0.5 micrometres and 1 .6 micrometres.

[0167] Example EX8. A mouthpiece according to example EX1 , wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness between 1.6 micrometres and 25 micrometres, optionally between 1.6 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres, optionally between 1.6 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres, optionally between 1.6 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres.

[0168] Example EX9. A mouthpiece according to example EX1 , wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 25 micrometres, optionally between 3.2 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres, optionally between 3.2 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres.

[0169] Example EX10. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein the mouthpiece is removably coupleable to a housing of an aerosol-generating device.

[0170] Example EX11 . A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein the average surface roughness of the external surface of the mouthpiece or such textured portion varies.

[0171] Example EX12. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein the average surface roughness of such textured portion or the external surface varies gradually along the length of the mouthpiece or along a longitudinal direction of the mouthpiece.

[0172] Example EX13. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein such textured portion extends around the mouthpiece.

[0173] Example EX14. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece comprises two or more of such textured portions, wherein at least two textured portions have different average surface roughness values.

[0174] Example EX15. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein a or such textured portion defines at least 50 percent of the external surface area of the mouthpiece. Example EX16. A mouthpiece according to any one of examples EX1 to EX14, wherein a or such textured portion is provided at a mouth end portion of the mouthpiece or a mouth end edge portion of the mouthpiece.

[0175] Example EX17. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein a or such textured portion is defined by a portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece that is machined, etched, molded, printed, or cast.

[0176] Example EX18. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein a or such textured portion is defined by a coating of the mouthpiece.

[0177] Example EX19. A mouthpiece according to example EX18, wherein the coating comprises a plurality of particles, preferably comprising one or more of silica, ceramic, or aluminium oxide. Example EX20. A mouthpiece according to example EX18 or EX19, wherein the coating comprises a paint or varnish, preferably wherein the paint is mixed with the plurality of particles, preferably wherein the paint is polyurethane or epoxy based.

[0178] Example EX21. A mouthpiece according to example EX18, wherein the coating is formed by one or more of physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, thermal spraying, electroplating, and anodising.

[0179] Example EX22. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein the mouthpiece comprises one or more of polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), copolyester, polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT), polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PCTG or Tritan), aluminium, and stainless steel.

[0180] Example EX23. A mouthpiece according to any preceding example, wherein a or such textured portion is defined by a removable film or band of the mouthpiece, preferably wherein the film or band comprises one or more of silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, and flexible polymers. Example EX24. An aerosol-generating device comprising a mouthpiece in accordance with any one of the preceding examples, the aerosol-generating device being configured to heat an aerosol-generating substrate, preferably wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive a cartridge containing the aerosol-generating substrate, preferably wherein the aerosolgenerating device is configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate contained in the cartridge.

[0181] Example EX25. An aerosol-generating device according to example EX24, wherein the mouthpiece is removably coupleable to a housing of the aerosol-generating device.

[0182] Example EX26. An aerosol-generating device according to example EX24 or EX25, further comprising a power source configured to provide power to a heater element.

[0183] Example EX27. An aerosol-generating system comprising: a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substrate; and an aerosol-generating device according to any one of examples EX24 to EX26, the aerosol-generating device being configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate of the cartridge.

[0184] Example EX28. A cartridge according to example EX27, wherein the aerosol-generating substrate is a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0185] Example EX29. An aerosol-generating system according to example EX27, wherein the aerosol-generating substrate is a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0186] Example EX29. A cartridge according to example EX27, EX28, or EX29, wherein the heater element is a resistive heater element.

[0187] Example EX30. An aerosol-generating system according to example EX27, EX28, or EX29, wherein the heater element is a resistive heater element.

[0188] Example EX31 . A method of manufacturing a mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating device comprising a step of injection molding or die casting to form the mouthpiece, wherein the step of injection molding or die casting provides at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece having an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres. Example EX32. A mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating device or system manufactured in accordance with the method of Example EX31.

[0189] Example EX33. A mouthpiece for use in an aerosol-generating device or system, wherein at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres, and wherein such a textured portion is provided through injection molding or die casting.

[0190] Example EX34. A mouthpiece according to any one of examples EX1 to EX23, wherein the textured portion is provided through injection molding or die casting.

[0191] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0192] Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a mouthpiece according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0193] Figure 2 is a schematic front view of a mouthpiece according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0194] Figure 3 is a schematic front view of a mouthpiece according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0195] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating system comprising a cartridge and an aerosol-generating device comprising a mouthpiece, which corresponds to any one of the mouthpieces shown in Figures 1 , 2, and 3.

[0196] Figure 1 shows a schematic front view of a mouthpiece 100 for use in an aerosolgenerating device, such as the one shown in Figure 4. The mouthpiece 100 is configured to be removably coupled to a housing of the aerosol-generating device. The mouthpiece 100 extends from an distal end 102 to a proximal or mouth end 104. When in use in an aerosol-generating device, the mouth end 104 defines the mouth end of the aerosol-generating device. The mouthpiece 100 comprises a mouth end portion 409, which can define the device air outlet of an aerosol-generating device.

[0197] The whole, or a substantial portion of the, external surface of the mouthpiece 100 is textured. The textured external surface 106 of the mouthpiece 100 has an average surface roughness (Ra) between 1.6 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres.

[0198] Figure 2 shows a schematic front view of a mouthpiece 200 for use in an aerosolgenerating device, such as the one shown in Figure 4. The mouthpiece 200 is the same as the mouthpiece 100, shown in Figure 1 , except in that the whole external surface of the mouthpiece 200 is not textured. A portion 206 of the external surface of the mouthpiece 200 is textured. Such a portion 206 corresponds to the external surface of the mouth end portion 409 of the mouthpiece 200. Such a textured portion 206 has an average surface roughness (Ra) between 1.6 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres.

[0199] Figure 3 shows a schematic front view of a mouthpiece 300 for use in an aerosolgenerating device, such as the one shown in Figure 4. The mouthpiece 300 is the same as the mouthpiece 100, shown in Figure 1 , except in that the external surface of the mouthpiece 300 comprises two textured portions 306a, 306b. The whole, or a substantial portion of the, external surface of the mouthpiece 300 is textured. The first textured portion 306a corresponds to the external surface of the mouth end portion 409 of the mouthpiece 300. The second textured portion 306a corresponds to the rest of the external surface of the mouthpiece 300, not belonging to the mouth end portion 409.

[0200] The first textured portion 306a has an average surface roughness (Ra) between 1.6 micrometres and 3.2 micrometres. The second textured portion 306b has an average surface roughness (Ra) between 0.5 micrometres and 1 .6 micrometres.

[0201] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating system 500 comprising a cartridge 10 and an aerosol-generating device 400 comprising a mouthpiece 100, 200, 300. The mouthpiece used in the aerosol-generating device 400 may correspond to any of the mouthpieces 100, 200, 300, shown in Figures 1 , 2, and 3.

[0202] The aerosol-generating device 400 comprises a device cavity 410 and the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300. The device cavity 410 is defined by a device housing 450. The mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 is removably coupleable to the device housing 450.

[0203] The cartridge 10 is configured to be received in the device cavity 410 of the aerosolgenerating device 400. The cartridge 10 is configured to also be at least partially received in the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 of the aerosol-generating device 400. The mouth end of the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 defines the mouth end of the aerosol-generating device 400. The mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 is configured to move between an open position and a closed position. When the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 is in the open position, the cartridge 10 can be inserted into or removed from the device cavity 410. When the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 is in the closed position, the cartridge 10 is secured within the aerosol-generating device 400. When the mouthpiece is in the closed position, the cartridge 10 is contained within and surrounded by the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 and the device cavity 410.

[0204] The aerosol-generating device 400 comprises a device air inlet 408, a device air outlet 409, a power supply 430, and a controller 440.

[0205] The device air inlet 408 is disposed at a distal end of the aerosol-generating device 400. The mouth end portion 409 of the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300 defines the device air outlet 409 of the aerosol-generating device 400. The device air outlet 409 is disposed at a proximal or mouth end of the aerosol-generating device 400.

[0206] The cartridge comprises a housing, a heater element (not shown), and an aerosolgenerating substrate (not shown). The cartridge housing defines a substrate compartment 400. The aerosol-generating substrate is received within a substrate compartment (not shown) of the housing. The heater element is also arranged in the substrate compartment. The aerosolgenerating substrate is a solid aerosol-generating substrate. The heater element is configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. The heater element is a resistive heater element, which is configured to generate heat upon application of a voltage across the heater element.

[0207] The cartridge 10 and the aerosol-generating device 400 are configured such that electrical contacts (not shown) of the cartridge 10 electrically connect to corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the aerosol-generating device 400. The electrical contacts of the aerosolgenerating device 400 are electrically connected to the power supply 430, such that power can be supplied from the power supply 430 to the heater element. The power supply 430 is in the form of a battery.

[0208] The aerosol-generating device 400 comprises a controller 440, which is electrically connected to the power supply 430. The controller 440 is configured to control the power output from the power supply 430, in particular to control whether the heater element is on or off, and to control the temperature of the heater element.

[0209] In use, air enters the device through the device air inlet 408 and into the cartridge 10 held in the device cavity 410, and through the aerosol-generating substrate contained in the cartridge 10. The heater element is configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. The user can draw on the mouthpiece 100, 200, 300, in particular the device air outlet 409, so as to draw aerosol from the cartridge 10.

[0210] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 10% of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

- 25 -Claims1. An aerosol-generating device comprising a mouthpiece, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substrate and heat the aerosol-generating substrate, wherein at least a textured portion of an external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 0.5 micrometres.

2. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 , wherein such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 1.6 micrometres, optionally wherein such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness greater than or equal to 3.2 micrometres.

3. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness less than or equal to 25 micrometres, preferably less than or equal to 12.5 micrometres, optionally wherein such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness less than or equal to 6.3 micrometres.

4. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 , wherein such textured portion of the external surface of the mouthpiece has an average surface roughness between 3.2 micrometres and 25 micrometres, optionally between 3.2 micrometres and 12.5 micrometres, optionally between 3.2 micrometres and 6.3 micrometres.

5. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the mouthpiece is removably coupleable to a housing of an aerosol-generating device.

6. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein such textured portion extends around the mouthpiece.

7. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the external surface of the mouthpiece comprises two or more of such textured portions, wherein at least two textured portions have different average surface roughness values.

8. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein a or such textured portion defines at least 50 percent of the external surface area of the mouthpiece.

9. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein a or such textured portion is provided at a mouth end portion of the mouthpiece or a mouth end edge portion of the mouthpiece.

10. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein a or such textured portion is defined by a coating of the mouthpiece.

11. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the mouthpiece comprises one or more of polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), copolyester, polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT), polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PCTG or Tritan), aluminium, and stainless steel.

12. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the textured portion is provided through injection molding or die casting.

13. An aerosol-generating system comprising: a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substrate; and an aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, the aerosol-generating device being configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate of the cartridge.

14. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 13, wherein the aerosol-generating substrate is a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

15. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or an aerosolgenerating system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing defining a substrate compartment, and wherein the aerosol-generating substrate is received within the substrate compartment.

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