CN114206142A

CN114206142A - Smoking substitute system

Info

Publication number: CN114206142A
Application number: CN202080034620.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 凯特·费里; 罗斯·申顿; 克里斯·洛德
Original assignee: Nerudia Ltd
Current assignee: IMPERIAL TOBACCO Ltd
Priority date: 2019-03-22
Filing date: 2020-03-13
Publication date: 2022-03-18
Also published as: EP3941257A1; TW202041155A; JP2022525972A; WO2020193179A1

Abstract

A tobacco heating apparatus is described. The device includes a heater and a controller configured to operate the heater according to at least two user-selectable operating modes. The operating mode may be selected by a user via a user input mechanism. The heater is for engaging with a heated tobacco consumable comprising an active component for delivery to the user. The at least two user-selectable operating modes include: a first mode in which the heater is operated to deliver a first amount of active to the user, and a second mode in which the heater is operated to deliver a second amount of active to the user. The second amount of the active component is greater than the first amount of the active component.

Description

Smoking substitute system

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a smoking-substitute system, and in particular, but not exclusively, to a smoking-substitute system comprising a heated tobacco device.

Background

Smoking of tobacco is generally considered to expose the smoker to potentially harmful substances. It is generally believed that the heat caused by the incineration and/or combustion of tobacco, as well as the components of the incinerated tobacco in the tobacco smoke itself, produces a large amount of potentially harmful substances.

Conventional combustible smoking articles, such as cigarettes, typically include a cylindrical tobacco rod of tobacco filaments wrapped by a wrapper, and often a cylindrical filter axially aligned in abutting relationship with the wrapped tobacco rod. Filters typically comprise a filter material surrounded by a plug wrap (plug wrap). The wrapped tobacco rod and the filter are joined together by a band of tipping paper wrapped around the entire length of the filter and adjacent portions of the wrapped tobacco rod. Conventional cigarettes of this type are used by lighting the end opposite the filter and burning the tobacco rod. Smokers receive mainstream smoke into their mouths by drawing on the mouth end or filter end of the cigarette.

The combustion of organic materials such as tobacco is known to produce tar and other potentially harmful byproducts. To avoid smoking tobacco, various smoking substitute systems (or "alternative smoking systems") have been proposed.

Such smoking replacement systems may form part of nicotine replacement therapy for persons who wish to stop smoking and overcome dependence on nicotine.

Smoking-substitute systems include electronic systems that allow a user to simulate the behavior of smoking by generating an aerosol (also referred to as "vapor") that is drawn into (inhaled into) the lungs through the mouth, and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol typically carries nicotine and/or flavourings with no or less of the odour and health risks associated with traditional smoking.

In general, smoking substitute systems are intended to provide a substitute for smoking habits while providing a user with an experience and satisfaction similar to that experienced with traditional smoking and combustible tobacco products. Some smoking-substitute systems use a smoking-substitute article (also referred to as a "consumable") that is designed to resemble a conventional cigarette and is in the form of a cylinder with a mouthpiece at one end.

The popularity and use of smoking-substitute systems has grown rapidly over the past few years. Although initially marketed as an adjunct to habitual smokers who wish to quit smoking, consumers increasingly view smoking replacement systems as an adjunct to a desired lifestyle.

There are many different kinds of smoking substitute systems, each using a different smoking substitute method.

One method for a smoking substitute system is the so-called heated tobacco ("HT") method, in which tobacco (rather than "e-liquid") is heated or warmed to release steam. HT is also known as "heating not burn" ("HNB"). The tobacco may be tobacco leaf or reconstituted tobacco. The vapour may contain nicotine and/or flavourings. In the HT process, the aim is that the tobacco is heated but not combusted, i.e. the tobacco does not undergo combustion.

A typical HT smoking substitute system may include a device and a consumable. The consumable may comprise a tobacco material. The device and the consumable may be configured to be physically coupled together. In use, heat may be transferred to the tobacco material by a heating element of the device, wherein the flow of air through the tobacco material causes components in the tobacco material to be released as a vapour. The vapor may also be formed from a carrier in the tobacco material (which may, for example, include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin) and other volatile compounds released from the tobacco. The released steam may be entrained in an air stream drawn through the tobacco.

As the vapor passes through the consumable (entrained in the airflow) from the vaporization location to an outlet (e.g., a mouthpiece) of the consumable, the vapor cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user. The aerosol will typically contain volatile compounds.

In HT smoking replacement systems, heating rather than burning tobacco material is believed to result in very small or lesser amounts of more harmful compounds that are typically produced during smoking. Thus, the HT process may reduce odor and/or health risks that may result from incineration, combustion, and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco.

There may be a need for an improved smoking alternative system, in particular a design of an HT smoking alternative system, to enhance the user experience and improve the functionality of the HT smoking alternative system.

The present disclosure was devised in view of the above considerations.

Disclosure of Invention

In the most general case, one aspect of the invention relates to a heated tobacco device for operating in different modes, and another aspect of the invention relates to a heated non-burning device for controlling steam generation.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tobacco heating apparatus comprising: a heater; a controller configured to operate the heater according to at least two user-selectable operating modes, the operating modes being selectable by a user via a user input mechanism, wherein the heater is for engagement with a heated tobacco consumable comprising an active component for delivery to the user; wherein the at least two user-selectable operating modes include: wherein the heater is operated in a first mode to deliver a first amount of active component to the user, and wherein the heater is operated in a second mode to deliver a second amount of active component to the user, and wherein the second amount of active component is higher than the first amount of active component.

By providing a heated tobacco device that includes a controller that operates the device in at least two user-selectable modes, the device can operate in an enhanced mode to provide higher delivery of the active component of the consumable.

Optional features will now be set forth. These may be used alone or in any combination with any of the aspects.

Optionally, in the second mode, the controller operates the heater to deliver the active component at a higher rate than in the first mode.

Optionally, the controller is configured to operate the heater at a first operating temperature in the first mode and at a second operating temperature in the second mode, wherein the second operating temperature is higher than the first operating temperature.

Optionally, the controller is configured to operate the heater for a first consumable cycle duration in the first mode and a second consumable cycle duration in the second mode, wherein the second consumable cycle duration is longer than the first consumable cycle duration.

Optionally, the controller is configured to select from at least two operating modes based on a user default mode.

Optionally, the controller is configured to allow a user to set a user default mode.

Optionally, the controller is configured to set a user default mode based on historical usage of the device.

Optionally, the active ingredient is nicotine.

Optionally, the device further comprises a consumable detection sensor for detecting the type of consumable engaged with the heater or for detecting the active component content of the consumable.

Optionally, the controller is configured to select from at least two operating modes based on the detected type of consumable or based on the active component content of the detected type of consumable.

Optionally, the user input mechanism comprises a button.

Optionally, the user input mechanism comprises a touch screen.

Optionally, the user input mechanism comprises a motion sensor for detecting a predetermined movement of the device.

Optionally, the user input mechanism comprises a speech recognition mechanism.

Advantageously, the controller is configured to cause the device to operate in the second mode based on the type and/or content of the consumable.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a heat non-combustion apparatus comprising: a heater; and a controller configured to operate the heater to heat an aerosol-forming substrate engaged with the heater to a predetermined operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to operate the heater in at least two modes including a first mode in which vapour having a first visibility is formed from the aerosol-forming substrate, and a second mode in which vapour having a second visibility is formed from the aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the first visibility is lower than the second visibility.

By providing a heated non-combusting device comprising a controller controlling the steam production, the device can be operated in two different steam production modes. In the first mode, the visibility of the generated steam is low. This mode may also be referred to as "hidden mode" considering that the use of the device becomes less apparent to an external observer due to low visibility of the vapour. In the second mode, the visibility of the generated steam is higher than that in the first mode.

The benefit of the device operating in the first mode may be increased flavor intensity and increased nicotine intensity. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the relative concentrations of nicotine and flavourings in the aerosol may be higher when the device is operated in a mode that produces low visible vapour. Low visibility steam may also be desirable for users who wish to reduce the amount of visible steam generated for aesthetic purposes (e.g., when in public places).

The terms "first visibility" and "second visibility" refer to the visibility of vapour generated by an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g. HNB consumer) during smoking, for example the visibility of vapour subsequently exhaled by a user following inhalation from the aerosol-forming substrate. Such visibility can typically be assessed by eye, but can also be assessed by determining the amount of incident light scattered by the vapor using more accurate methods known to those skilled in the art. A higher "visibility" vapor, as defined herein, will scatter or attenuate incident light to a greater extent, appearing more visible to an observer (i.e., "more hazy" or "hazier").

Optionally, the controller is configured to operate the heater at a first predetermined operating temperature in a first mode and at a second predetermined operating temperature in a second mode, wherein the first predetermined operating temperature is lower than the second predetermined operating temperature.

When in different modes, control of the temperature of the heater is a way to provide different vapor visibility. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that different vaporisation temperatures of nicotine on the one hand and the aerosol-forming substance on the other hand may be used to tailor the visibility of the vapour. Selecting a temperature at which a lower amount of aerosol-forming substance is vaporised from the aerosol-forming substrate enables the amount of vapour generated to be reduced, thereby reducing its visibility.

In some embodiments, the first predetermined operating temperature is at least 25 ℃, e.g., at least 30 ℃, at least 35 ℃, at least 40 ℃, at least 45 ℃, at least 50 ℃, at least 55 ℃, or at least 60 ℃ lower than the second predetermined operating temperature.

In some embodiments, the first predetermined operating temperature is 140 ℃ to 170 ℃. Within this temperature range, an acceptable level of nicotine is vaporised from the aerosol-forming substrate, whereas the amount of other substances (aerosol-forming substances) that contribute to the visibility of the vapour is reversed.

In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is greater than 170 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is at least 180 ℃, such as at least 185 ℃, at least 190 ℃, at least 195 ℃, or at least 200 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is greater than 170 ℃ and less than or equal to about 220 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is 175 ℃ to 220 ℃, e.g., 175 ℃ to 215 ℃, 175 ℃ to 210 ℃, 180 ℃ to 210 ℃, 190 ℃ to 210 ℃, or 195 ℃ to 205 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is about 200 ℃.

In some embodiments, the first predetermined operating temperature is 140 ℃ to 170 ℃; and the second predetermined operating temperature is greater than 170 ℃ and less than or equal to about 220 ℃. In some embodiments, the first predetermined operating temperature is 140 ℃ to 170 ℃; and the second predetermined operating temperature is at least 200 ℃.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to vary the pressure drop across the consumable. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to vary the pressure drop across the aerosol-forming article between a first condition and a second condition, wherein the pressure drop across the aerosol-forming article is higher in the first condition than in the second condition. The higher pressure drop provides a reduced level of visible vapour from the aerosol-forming article and so the first condition corresponds to the first mode of the device.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to vary the airflow so as to control the pressure drop based on the selected mode. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to vary the airflow into the device between a first condition and a second condition, wherein the airflow into the device is lower under the first condition than under the second condition.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to vary the airflow such that the pressure drop when in the first mode is higher than the pressure drop when in the second mode.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to detect the type of consumable present in the device and incorporate it into one or more parameters of the device function when switching between the first mode and the second mode. In other words, the action taken by the controller when switching between modes may depend on the type of consumable present in the apparatus. For example, certain consumables may require a greater temperature reduction between the second and first modes in order to achieve a given reduction in vapor visibility. Similarly, certain consumables may require a greater increase in pressure drop between the second and first modes in order to achieve a given reduction in vapor visibility.

In some embodiments, the apparatus is adapted to move the heater and the aerosol-forming substrate relative to each other so as to vary the amount of contact between the heater and the substrate according to a selected pattern. Varying the degree of contact between the heater and the aerosol-forming substrate will vary the amount of visible vapour produced by the device. A greater amount of contact between the heater and the substrate will increase the amount of vapor generated at a given heater temperature. Movement of the heater relative to the aerosol-forming substrate may be achieved by effecting movement of the heater, the aerosol-forming substrate or both. For example, the device may be adapted to move the heater. In some embodiments, the heater is adapted to move in a linear manner along the longitudinal axis of the device such that the degree to which the heater is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate may vary. In some embodiments, the device is adapted to move the aerosol-forming substrate relative to the heater to provide more or less contact between the heater and the aerosol-forming substrate as required.

Optionally, the amount of contact of the heater with the aerosol-forming substrate in the first mode is less than the amount of contact of the heater with the aerosol-forming substrate in the second mode.

In some embodiments, the heater is a rod heater adapted to be inserted into the upstream end of the HNB consumable during smoking, and the apparatus is adapted to move the heater and consumable relative to each other in response to the mode selection to achieve a degree of insertion of the heater into the upstream end of the consumable. The device may be adapted to move the heater and the consumable closer to each other in response to selection of the second mode, thereby increasing visibility of the generated steam. The device may be adapted to move the heater and the consumable away from each other in response to selection of the first mode, thereby reducing visibility of the generated steam. In some embodiments, in the second mode, the length of the portion of the heater that is inserted in the consumable is about 10 mm. In some embodiments, in the first mode, the length of the portion of the heater that is inserted in the consumable is about 5 mm.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a user input mechanism for selecting the mode by a user. In some embodiments, the user input mechanism includes a user interface through which a user may select from a mode, such as a first mode or a second mode. In some embodiments, the user interface includes one or more buttons or switches for selecting from a particular mode.

In some embodiments, the device further comprises an output mechanism configured to indicate to a user the currently selected operating mode (e.g., the first or second mode). The device may include a display to indicate to the user the currently selected mode. For example, the device may include one or more lights (e.g., LEDs) that illuminate according to the selected mode, or a screen that indicates the selected mode.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to maintain the selected mode for at least one complete smoking cycle (i.e., the time to activate the heater to puff a single HNB consumable). This ensures that the user obtains the desired smoking experience in a complete cycle and is not interrupted by any unwanted switching between modes.

The device may comprise an elongate body. The end of the elongate body may be configured to engage with an aerosol-forming article. For example, the body may be configured to engage with a Heated Tobacco (HT) consumable (or a heated non-burning (HNB) consumable). The terms "heated tobacco" and "heated not to burn" are used interchangeably herein to describe consumables of the type that are heated rather than burned (or are used interchangeably to describe devices used with such consumables). The device may comprise a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the consumable (i.e. to engage with the consumable). The aerosol-forming article may be of a type that includes an aerosol precursor (e.g. carried by an aerosol-forming substrate).

The device may comprise a heater for heating the aerosol-forming article. The heater may comprise a heating element, which may be in the form of a rod extending from the body of the device. The heating element may extend from an end of the body configured to engage with the aerosol-forming article.

The heater (and thus the heating element) may be securely mounted to the body. The heating element may be elongate so as to define a longitudinal axis, and may for example have a substantially circular transverse profile (i.e. perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the heating element) (i.e. the heating element may be substantially cylindrical). Alternatively, the heating element may have a rectangular transverse profile (i.e. the heater may be a "blade heater"). Alternatively, the heating element may be in the shape of a tube (i.e. the heater may be a "tubular heater"). The heating element may take other forms (e.g., the heating element may have an elliptical transverse profile). The shape and/or size (e.g., diameter) of the transverse profile of the heating element may be substantially uniform over the entire length (or substantially the entire length) of the heating element.

The heating element may be 15mm to 25mm long, for example 18mm to 20mm long, for example about 19mm long. The heating element may have a diameter of 1.5mm to 2.5mm, for example a diameter of 2mm to 2.3mm, for example a diameter of about 2.15 mm.

The heating element may be formed of ceramic. The heating element may comprise Al₂O₃A core (e.g., a ceramic core). The diameter of the core of the heating element may be 1.8mm to 2.1mm, for example 1.9mm to 2 mm. The heating element may comprise Al₂O₃For example, an outer ceramic layer. The thickness of the outer layer may be 160 μm to 220 μm, for example 170 μm to 190 μm, for example about 180 μm. The heating element may comprise a heating track, which may extend longitudinally along the heating element. The heating track canSandwiched between the outer layer and the core of the heating element. The heating track may comprise tungsten and/or rhenium. The heating track may have a thickness of about 20 μm.

The heating element may be located in the cavity (of the device) and may extend from the interior base of the cavity towards the opening of the cavity (e.g. along the longitudinal axis). The length of the heating element (i.e. along the longitudinal axis of the heater) may be less than the depth of the cavity. Thus, the heating element may extend within only a portion of the length of the cavity. In other words, the heating element may not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the cavity.

The heating element may be configured to be inserted in an aerosol-forming article (e.g. an HT consumable) when the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. In this regard, the distal end of the heating element (i.e. away from the base of the heating element mounted to the device) may comprise a taper, which may facilitate insertion of the heating element in the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may fully penetrate the aerosol-forming article when the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. In other words, the entire length or substantially the entire length of the heating element may be contained in the aerosol-forming article.

The length of the heating element may be less than or substantially equal to the axial length of an aerosol-forming substrate forming part of an aerosol-forming article (e.g. an HT consumable). Thus, when such an aerosol-forming article is engaged with a device, the heating element may only penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate, and not other components of the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article over substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate. Thus, heat may be transferred from the heating element (e.g. the outer circumferential surface of the heating element) to the surrounding aerosol-forming substrate when penetrated by the heating element. In other words, heat may be transferred radially outwards (in the case of a cylindrical heating element) or, for example, radially inwards (in the case of a tubular heater).

Where the heater is a tubular heater, the heating element of the tubular heater may surround at least a portion of the cavity. When a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity, the heating element may surround (i.e. so as to heat) that portion of the aerosol-forming article. In particular, the heating element may surround the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article. In other words, the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article may be located adjacent to the inner surface of the (tubular) heating element when the aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device. When the heating element is activated, heat may be transferred radially inwards from the inner surface of the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate.

The cavity may comprise a (e.g. circumferential) wall (or walls), and the (tubular) heating element may extend around at least a portion of the wall. In this way, the wall may be located between the inner surface of the heating element and the outer surface of the aerosol-forming article. The wall (or walls) of the cavity may be formed from a thermally conductive material (e.g. a metal) to allow heat conduction from the heating element to the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be conducted from the heating element through the chamber wall (or walls) to the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article contained in the chamber.

In some embodiments, the device may comprise a cap disposed at an end of the body, the cap being configured to engage with the aerosol-forming article. Where the device comprises a heater having a heating element, the cap may at least partially enclose the heating element. The cap is movable between an open position in which access to the heating element is provided and a closed position in which the cap at least partially encloses the heating element. The cap may be slidably engaged with the body of the device and may slide between an open position and a closed position.

The cap may define at least a portion of a lumen of the device. In other words, the cavity may be defined entirely by the cap, or each of the cap and the body may define a portion of the cavity. Where the cap fully defines the cavity, the cap may include an aperture for receiving the heating element in the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position). The cap may include an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-forming article. In other words, the aerosol-forming article may be inserted through the opening and into the cavity (so as to engage with the device).

The cap may be configured such that when the aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device (e.g. received in the cavity), only a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. In other words, a portion of the aerosol-forming article (not housed in the cavity) may protrude from (i.e. extend beyond) the opening. This (protruding) portion of the aerosol-forming article may be a terminal (e.g. mouth) end of the aerosol-forming article which may be received in the mouth of a user for the purpose of inhaling an aerosol formed by the device.

The device may include a power source or may be connected to a power source (e.g., a power source separate from the device). The power source may be electrically connected to the heater. In this regard, changing (e.g., switching) the electrical connection of the power source to the heater can affect the state of the heater. For example, switching the electrical connection of the power source to the heater may switch the heater between an on state and an off state. The power source may be an electrical storage device. For example, the power source may be a battery or a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium ion battery).

The device may include an input connection (e.g., a USB port, a micro-USB port, a USB-C port, etc.). The input connection may be configured for connection to an external power source, e.g. a power outlet. In some cases, the input connection may be used as a replacement for an internal power source (e.g., a battery or rechargeable battery). In other words, the input connection may be electrically connected to the heater (for providing power to the heater). Thus, in some forms, the input connection may form at least part of a power supply of the device.

Where the power source comprises a rechargeable power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery), the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power source.

The apparatus may include a User Interface (UI). In some embodiments, the UI may include an input mechanism that receives an operation command from a user. The input mechanism of the UI may allow a user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the device. In some embodiments, the input mechanism may include a power button to switch the device between an on state and an off state. In some embodiments, the input mechanism may include a motion sensor for receiving an operation command from a user by detecting a motion of the device. In some embodiments, the input mechanism may include a microphone for receiving the operation command by the voice of the user. In some embodiments, the input mechanism may include a touch screen for a user to provide operational commands by touch. In some embodiments, the operating command may include changing a mode by changing an operating mode of the device, thereby improving a user experience.

In some embodiments, the UI may additionally or alternatively include an output mechanism to convey information to the user. In some embodiments, the output mechanism may comprise a light to indicate to a user the condition of the device (and/or aerosol-forming article). In some embodiments, the output mechanism may include tactile feedback to indicate the condition of the device. In some embodiments, the output mechanism may include a display screen to display the condition of the device. The condition of the device (and/or aerosol-forming article) indicated to the user may comprise a condition indicative of the operation of the heater. For example, the condition may include whether the heater is in an off state or an on state. In some embodiments, the UI element may include at least one of a button, a display, a touch screen, a switch, a light, and the like. For example, the output mechanism may include one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) light emitting diodes ("LEDs") that may be located on the body of the device.

The device may also include a puff sensor (e.g., an airflow sensor) that forms part of the input mechanism of the UI. The suction sensor may be configured to detect the end of the aerosol-forming article (i.e., the terminal (mouth) end) that is being sucked by the user. The suction sensor may be, for example, a pressure sensor or a microphone. The puff sensor may be configured to generate a signal indicative of the puff status. The signal may be indicative of the user aspirating (aerosol from the aerosol-forming article) such that it is, for example, in the form of a binary signal. Alternatively or additionally, the signal may be indicative of a characteristic of the puff (e.g., a flow rate of the puff, a length of time of the puff, etc.). For example, a pressure sensor/airflow sensor may detect a pressure drop across the consumable. Alternatively, the sensor may detect airflow into the device.

The device may also include a consumable detection sensor (e.g., nicotine sensor, tobacco sensor) that may form part of the input mechanism of the UI. The consumable detection sensor can be configured to detect the type of tobacco used or present in the consumable. The consumable detection sensor can be configured to detect a nicotine content present in the consumable. The consumable detection sensor can detect tobacco type or nicotine content based on detecting active compounds/molecules in the consumable. The consumable detection sensor can be configured to generate a signal indicative of tobacco type or nicotine content. The signal may indicate the type of consumable inserted in the device such that it is, for example, in the form of a binary signal. For example, a consumable detection sensor may be capable of determining a visual characteristic of a consumable. For example, the color of the consumable may indicate the type of consumable. Alternatively, the consumable may include a detectable visual cue (e.g., a barcode) detectable by the consumable detection sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the signal may be indicative of a characteristic/property of the consumable.

The apparatus may comprise, or may be connected to, a controller, which may be configured to control at least one function of the apparatus. The controller may comprise, for example, a microcontroller which may be mounted on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). The controller may further include a memory, such as a non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions that, when implemented, may cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of the method. Where the device includes an input connection, the controller may be connected to the input connection.

The controller may be configured to control operation of the heater (and, for example, the heating element). Thus, the controller may be configured to control the vaporisation of an aerosol-forming portion of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device. The controller may be configured to control the intensity of aerosol delivery by controlling the operation of the heater. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to control the duration of aerosol delivery by controlling operation of the heater. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the amount of aerosol delivery. The controller may be configured to control the function of the means for controlling the amount of steam generation according to user preferences. The controller may be configured to generate low or no visibility vapor in a particular mode. This may be achieved by controlling one or more device functions, for example controlling the temperature of the heater, controlling the pressure of the airflow, controlling the relative positions of the aerosol-forming substrate and the heater to vary the degree of contact between the heater and the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the voltage applied to the heater by the power source. For example, the controller may be configured to switch between applying all of the output voltage (of the power supply) to the heater and not applying the voltage to the heater. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may implement more complex heater control protocols.

The apparatus may also include a voltage regulator to regulate an output voltage supplied by the power supply to form a regulated voltage. A regulated voltage may then be applied to the heater.

In some embodiments where the apparatus includes a UI, the controller may be operatively connected to one or more components of the UI. The controller may be configured to receive command signals from an input mechanism of the UI. The controller may be configured to control the heater in response to a command signal. For example, the controller may be configured to receive "on" and "off command signals from the UI and, in response, may control the heater to be in respective on or off states. The controller may be configured to receive a command signal from the consumable detection sensor and, in response, may control the heater. In addition, the controller may be configured to receive command signals from a user via the input mechanism to change a mode of the device to control the amount of aerosol delivered.

The controller may be configured to send the output signal to a component of the UI. The UI may be configured to convey information to the user via the output mechanism in response to such output signals (received from the controller). For example, where the device includes one or more LEDs, the LEDs may be operably connected to a controller. Accordingly, the controller may be configured to control illumination of the LEDs (e.g., in response to the output signals). For example, the controller may be configured to control illumination of the LEDs according to a (e.g., on or off) state of the heater.

Where the device includes a sensor (e.g. a suction/airflow sensor/consumable detection sensor), the controller may be operatively connected to the sensor. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the sensor (e.g. indicative of a condition of the device and/or the engaged aerosol-forming article). The controller may be configured to control an aspect of the heater or the output mechanism based on a signal from the sensor.

The device may include a wireless interface configured to wirelessly communicate (e.g., via bluetooth (e.g., a bluetooth low energy connection) or Wi-Fi) with an external device. Similarly, the input connection may be configured as a wired connection with an external device to provide communication between the device and the external device.

The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the external device may be a smartphone, a tablet, a smart watch, or a smart car. An application (e.g., app) may be installed on an external device (e.g., a mobile device). The application may facilitate communication between the device and an external device via a wired connection or a wireless connection.

The wireless interface or the wired interface may be configured to transfer signals between the external device and a controller of the device. In this regard, the controller may control an aspect of the device in response to a signal received from an external device. Alternatively or additionally, the external device may be responsive to a signal received from the device (e.g., from a controller of the device).

In a third aspect, there is provided a system (e.g. a smoking-substitute system) comprising a device according to the first aspect and an aerosol-forming article. The aerosol-forming article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate at an upstream end of the aerosol-forming article. The article may be in the form of a smoking substitute article, such as a Heated Tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a heated non-combustible (HNB) consumable).

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a heated non-burning apparatus comprising: a heater; and a controller configured to operate the heater to heat an aerosol-forming substrate engaged with the heater to a predetermined operating temperature, wherein the predetermined operating temperature is 140 ℃ to 170 ℃.

Since the typical operating temperature of HNB devices is about 200 ℃ or higher, this aspect provides a device that is capable of operating at lower temperatures and thereby delivering lower visibility of steam, which provides the advantages described above.

All options and preferences set forth above in relation to the second aspect apply equally to the fourth aspect, mutatis mutandis.

In particular, the controller may be further configured to operate the heater to heat the aerosol-forming substrate engaged with the heater to a second predetermined operating temperature, wherein the second predetermined operating temperature is greater than 170 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is at least 180 ℃, such as at least 185 ℃, at least 190 ℃, at least 195 ℃, or at least 200 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is greater than 170 ℃ and less than or equal to about 220 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is 175 ℃ to 220 ℃, e.g., 175 ℃ to 215 ℃, 175 ℃ to 210 ℃, 180 ℃ to 210 ℃, 190 ℃ to 210 ℃, or 195 ℃ to 205 ℃. In some embodiments, the second predetermined operating temperature is about 200 ℃.

A fifth aspect of the invention is a method of reducing the amount of vapour generated by a heat-not-burn device comprising a heater and a controller configured to operate the heater to heat an aerosol-forming substrate engaged with the heater to a predetermined operating temperature, the method comprising reducing the predetermined operating temperature to a temperature of from 140 ℃ to 170 ℃.

In a sixth aspect, there is provided a system (e.g. a smoking substitute system) comprising a device according to the second or fourth aspect and an aerosol-forming article. The aerosol-forming article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate at an upstream end of the aerosol-forming article. The article may be in the form of a smoking substitute article, such as a Heated Tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a heated non-combustible (HNB) consumable).

A seventh aspect of the invention is a method of using the apparatus according to the second or fourth aspect or the system according to the sixth aspect.

As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are intended to refer to the direction of flow of the vapour/aerosol, i.e. the downstream end of the article/consumable is the mouth end or outlet where the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation by the user. The upstream end of the article/consumable is the end opposite the downstream end.

The aerosol-forming substrate is capable of being heated to release at least one volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be located at an upstream end of the article/consumable.

To generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one volatile compound which is intended to be vaporised/aerosolized and which, when inhaled, may provide a recreational and/or medical effect to the user. Suitable chemically and/or physiologically active volatile compounds include: nicotine, cocaine for medical effects, caffeine, opioids and opioids for medical effects, theophylline and cathinone, kavalactone, mystin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvianolic acid (salvinorin) a and any combination and/or synthetic substitute functionally equivalent to the foregoing.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant material. The plant material may comprise at least one plant material selected from the following list: amaranthus pseudonarum (Amaranthus dubus), Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry), Argemone mexicana (Argemone mexicana), Amica (Amica), Artemisia annua (Artemisia vulgaris), Camellia sinensis (Yellow teas), California ananatis (Galea zacatechi), Canavalia gladiata (Canavalia maritima), Baybean (Baybean), Cochloa (Cercoporia mexicana, Guamura), Cestrum nocarpum (Cestrum nocarpum), Virginia glauca (Cynoglossum virginiana, Wild comfrey), Cytisussonescula (Cytisco parius), Miyaana (Amidana), Potentilla (Entada rhdii), Califolia California (California), Horserrulata (Hovenia), Leonurus chinensis (C. chinensis), Leonurus chinensis (C. japonica), Leonurus chinensis (L. japonica ), Leonurus (L. japonica, L. officinalis (C. officinalis), Leonurus (L. japonica, L. chinensis, L. officinalis (L. chinensis), Leonurus, L. officinalis (L. officinalis), Leonurus, L. officinalis (C. officinalis, L. officinalis (C. officinalis), Leonurus, L. officinalis (C. officinalis, L. roseus), L. officinalis (L. officinalis, L. officinalis (C. officinalis), L. officinalis (C. officinalis, L. roseus, L. officinalis (L. officinalis, L. officinalis), L. officinalis (L. officinalis, L. roseus, L. officinalis), L. officinalis (L. officinalis ), L. officinalis (L. officinalis ), L. officinalis (L. officinalis, L. officinalis (L. officinalis, L. Indian-tobaco, Lobelia macrophylla (Lobelia siphyllica), Schizonepeta tenuifolia (Nepeta cataria, Catnip), Nicotiana species (Nicotiana species, Tobacco), Nymphaea alba (Nymphaea alba, White Lily), Nymphaea caerulea (Nymphaea caerulea, Blue Lily), Papaver somniferum (Opium poppy) for medical effects, Passiflora incana (Passionuta incana, Passionflower), Artemisia miniata (Skyo, Indian Warriflower), Salvia madurata (Pedicularia gigantea, Indian Warrier), Pedicularia gracilistylus (Pedicularia, Elephantum's', Head), Salvia officinalis (Saliva), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis) root (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis) for example, Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis) for example, Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis side, Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis) for medical side, Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis) for treating), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scutellaria baicalensis (Scutellaria baicalensis), Scute, Damiana leaf (tumeradifusa, Damiana), Verbascum (Mullein), broadleaf cycas (Zamia latifolia, maconoha Brava), and any combination and/or synthetic substitute functionally equivalent to the foregoing.

The plant material may be tobacco. Any type of tobacco may be used. This includes, but is not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, maryland tobacco, dark flue-cured tobacco, oriental tobacco, dark flue-cured tobacco, perque tobacao, and orchid tobacco (rustica tobacao). This also includes mixtures of the above tobaccos.

The tobacco may include one or more of tobacco leaves, stems, dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenized tobacco, cut filler, extruded tobacco, shredded tobacco, and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., pulp or paper reconstituted).

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a collected homogenized (e.g. paper/pulp reconstituted) tobacco sheet or a collected fragment/rod formed from such a sheet.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more additives selected from humectants, flavourings, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and binders.

The flavoring agent may be provided in solid or liquid form. It may include menthol, licorice, chocolate, fruit flavors (including, for example, citrus, cherry, etc.), vanilla, spices (e.g., ginger, cinnamon), and tobacco flavors. The flavourant may be dispersed evenly throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, or may be provided at separate locations and/or varying concentrations throughout the aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape such that the article/consumable resembles a conventional cigarette. The diameter may be 5mm to 10mm, for example 6mm to 9mm or 6mm to 8mm, for example about 7 mm. Its axial length may be 10mm to 15mm, for example 11mm to 14mm, for example about 12mm or 13 mm.

The article/consumable may include at least one filter element. There may be a final filter element at the downstream/mouth end of the article/consumable.

The or at least one filter element (e.g. a terminal filter element) may be composed of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. The at least one filter element (e.g., an end filter element) may be comprised of activated carbon. The at least one filter element (e.g., terminal element) may be comprised of paper. The or each filter element may be at least partially (e.g. completely) surrounded by a plug wrap (e.g. a paper-type plug wrap).

The final filter element (at the downstream end of the article/consumable) may be connected to the upstream element forming the article/consumable by surrounding a tipping layer (e.g., a tipping paper layer). The axial length of the tipping paper may be longer than the axial length of the final filter element, such that the tipping paper completely surrounds the final filter element and surrounds the wrapper of any adjacent upstream element.

In some embodiments, the article/consumable may comprise an aerosol-cooling element adapted to cool an aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate (by heat exchange) prior to inhalation by a user.

The article/consumable may comprise a spacer element defining a space or cavity between the aerosol-forming substrate and the downstream end of the consumable. The spacer element may comprise a cardboard tube. The spacer element may be surrounded by a (paper) wrapping.

The invention includes combinations of the described aspects and preferred features unless such combinations are clearly impossible or explicitly avoided.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that features or parameters described in relation to any of the above aspects may be applicable to any other aspect unless mutually exclusive. Furthermore, any feature or parameter described herein may be applicable to any aspect and/or in combination with any other feature or parameter described herein, unless mutually exclusive.

Drawings

In order that the invention may be understood, and in order that other aspects and features of the invention may be understood, an embodiment illustrating the principles of the invention will now be discussed in more detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1A is a schematic diagram of a smoking substitute system;

FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of a variation of the smoking-substitute system of FIG. 1A;

figure 2A is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking-substitute system in which a consumable is engaged with a device;

figure 2B is a front view of the first embodiment of the smoking-substitute system with the consumable detached from the device;

figure 2C is a cross-sectional view of a consumable of a first embodiment of a smoking-substitute system;

figure 2D is a detail view of an end of the device of the first embodiment of the smoking-substitute system;

figure 2E is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the alternative smoking system; and fig. 3 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a device for heating tobacco, and;

fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment.

Detailed Description

Aspects and embodiments of the invention will now be discussed with reference to the figures. Other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference.

Fig. 1A is a schematic diagram providing a general overview of a smoking-substitute system 100. The system 100 comprises an alternative smoking device 101 and an aerosol-forming article in the form of a consumable 102, the consumable 102 comprising an aerosol precursor 103. The system is configured to vaporize the aerosol precursor (so as to form a vapor/aerosol for inhalation by the user) by heating the aerosol precursor 103.

In the illustrated system, heater 104 forms a portion of consumable 102 and is configured to heat aerosol precursor 103. In this variation, heater 104 may be electrically connected to power source 105, for example, when consumable 102 is engaged with device 101. The heat from the heater 104 vaporizes the aerosol precursor 103 to produce a vapor. The vapor then condenses to form an aerosol, which is ultimately inhaled by the user.

The system 100 also includes a power supply 105 forming part of the device 101. In other embodiments, power source 105 may be external to device 101 (but connectable to device 101). The power source 105 may be electrically connected to the heater 104 such that it is capable of supplying power to the heater 104 (i.e., for the purpose of heating the aerosol precursor 103). Thus, control of the electrical connection of the power source 105 to the heater 104 provides control of the state of the heater 104. The power source 105 may be a power storage device, such as a battery or a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium ion battery).

The system 100 further includes an I/O module that includes a connector 106 (e.g., in the form of a USB port, a micro-USB port, a USB-C port, etc.). The connector 106 is configured for connection to an external power source, such as an electrical outlet. Connector 106 may be used in place of power supply 105. In other words, the connector 106 may be electrically connected to the heater 104 to supply power to the heater 104. In such embodiments, the device may not include a power source, and the power source of the system may instead include the connector 106 and an external power source (the connector 106 providing an electrical connection to the external power source).

In some embodiments, where power source 105 includes a rechargeable battery, connector 106 may be used to charge and recharge power source 105.

The system 100 also includes a User Interface (UI) 107. Although not shown, the UI 107 may include an input mechanism that receives commands from a user. The input mechanism of the UI 107 allows a user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the system 100. The input mechanism may, for example, be in the form of a button, touch screen, switch, microphone, motion sensor, or the like.

UI 107 also includes output mechanisms that convey information to the user. The output mechanism may, for example, include a light (e.g., an LED), a display screen, a speaker, a vibration generator, and the like.

The system 100 further comprises a controller 108, the controller 108 being configured to control at least one function of the apparatus 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 108 is a component of the device 101, but in other embodiments, the controller 108 may be separate from the device 101 (but connectable to the device 101). The controller 108 is configured to control the operation of the heater 104 and, for example, may be configured to control the voltage applied to the heater 104 from the power supply 105. The controller 108 may be configured to switch the supply of power to the heater 104 between an on state (in which the full output voltage of the power supply 105 is applied to the heater 104) and an off state (in which no voltage is applied to the heater 104).

Although not shown, the system 100 also includes a voltage regulator that regulates the output voltage from the power supply 105 to form a regulated voltage. A regulated voltage may then be applied to the heater 104.

In addition to being connected to heater 104, controller 108 is operatively connected to UI 107. Thus, the controller 108 may receive input signals from the input mechanisms of the UI 107. Similarly, the controller 108 may transmit the output signal to the UI 107. In response, the output mechanism of UI 107 may convey information to the user based on the output signal. The controller also includes a memory 109 that is a non-volatile memory. The memory 109 includes instructions that, when implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of the method.

Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a variation of the smoking-substitute system 100 of figure 1A. In system 100' of fig. 1B, heater 104 forms part of device 101, rather than part of consumable 102. In this variation, the heater 104 may be electrically connected to the power supply 105.

Fig. 2A and 2B illustrate a Heated Tobacco (HT) smoking substitute system 200. The system 200 is an example of the systems 100, 100' described with respect to fig. 1A or 1B. System 200 includes HT device 201 and HT consumable 202. The above description of fig. 1A and 1B applies to the system 200 of fig. 2A and 2B, and thus will not be repeated.

The device 201 and the consumable 202 are configured such that the consumable 202 can be engaged with the device 201. Fig. 2A shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in an engaged state, while fig. 2B shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in a disengaged state.

The device 201 includes a body 209 and a cap 210. In use, the cap 210 is engaged at the end of the body 209. Although not apparent in the drawings, the cap 210 is movable relative to the body 209. In particular, the cap 210 is slidable and can slide along the longitudinal axis of the body 209.

The device 201 comprises an output mechanism (forming part of the UI of the device 201) in the form of a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) 211, the plurality of LEDs 211 being arranged linearly along the longitudinal axis of the device 201 and on the outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201. A button 212 is also disposed on an outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201 and is axially spaced (i.e., along the longitudinal axis) from the plurality of LEDs 211.

Fig. 2C shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the consumable 202 of the system 200. The consumable 202 generally resembles a cigarette. In this regard, the consumable 202 has a generally cylindrical shape with a diameter of 7mm and an axial length of 70 mm. The consumable 202 comprises an aerosol-forming substrate 213, a terminal filter element 214, an upstream filter element 215 and a spacer element 216. In other embodiments, the consumable may further comprise a cooling element. The cooling element may be in heat exchange with the vapour formed by the aerosol-forming substrate 213 so as to cool the vapour, thereby promoting condensation of the vapour.

The aerosol-forming substrate 213 is substantially cylindrical and located at the upstream end 217 of the consumable 202 and contains the aerosol precursors of the system 200. In this regard, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 is configured to be heated by the device 201 to release vapour. The released vapor is subsequently entrained in the gas stream flowing through the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The airflow is generated by the action of the user drawing on the downstream end 218 (i.e. the terminal end or mouth) of the consumable 202.

In this embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 comprises a tobacco material, which may for example comprise any suitable part of a tobacco plant (e.g. leaf, stem, root, bark, seed and flower). The tobacco may include one or more of tobacco leaves, stems, dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenized tobacco, cut filler, extruded tobacco, shredded tobacco, and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., pulp or paper reconstituted). For example, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 may comprise a collected homogenized (e.g. paper/pulp reconstituted) tobacco sheet or a collected piece/rod formed from such a sheet.

To generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 comprises at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised/aerosolized and that may provide a recreational and/or medical effect to the user when inhaled. The aerosol-forming substrate 213 may further comprise one or more additives. For example, such additives may be in the form of humectants (e.g., propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin), flavoring agents, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents, and/or binders.

The final filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical and is positioned at a downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The final filter element 214 is in the form of a hollow bore filter element having a bore 219 formed therethrough (e.g., for air flow). The diameter of the hole 219 is 2 mm. The final filter element 214 is formed from a porous (e.g., monoacetate) filter material. As described above, the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 (where the end filter 214 is located) forms a mouthpiece of the consumable 202 for the user to draw. The airflow is drawn from the upstream end 217 through the consumable 202 assembly and exits the downstream end 218. The airflow is driven by the user sucking on the downstream end 218 (i.e. the mouthpiece) of the consumable 202.

The upstream filter element 215 is located between the aerosol-forming substrate 213 and the final filter element 214, axially adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate 213. Like the final filter 214, the upstream filter element 215 is in the form of a hollow bore filter element such that it has a bore 220 extending axially therethrough. In this manner, the upstream filter 215 may act as an airflow restrictor. The upstream filter element 215 is formed from a porous (e.g., monoacetate) filter material. The pores 220 of the upstream filter element 215 have a larger diameter (3mm) than the final filter element 214.

The spacer 216 is in the form of a cardboard tube that defines a cavity or chamber between the upstream filter element 215 and the final filter element 214. The spacers 216 serve to allow cooling and mixing of the vapour/aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The spacer has an outer diameter of 7mm and an axial length of 14 mm.

Although not apparent from the drawings, the aerosol-forming substrate 213, upstream filter 215 and spacer 216 are surrounded by a paper wrapper. The end filter 214 is surrounded by a tipping layer that also surrounds a portion of the paper wrapper (in order to connect the end filter 214 to the remaining components of the consumable 202). The upstream filter 215 and the final filter 214 are surrounded by a further wrap in the form of a plug wrap.

Referring now to the device 201, fig. 2D illustrates a detailed view of an end of the device 201 configured to engage with the consumable 202. The cap 210 of the device 201 includes an opening 221 (more evident in fig. 2D) that opens into an interior cavity 222 defined by the cap 210. The opening 221 and cavity 222 are formed to accommodate at least a portion of the consumable 202. During engagement of the consumable 202 with the device 201, a portion of the consumable 202 is received through the opening 221 and into the cavity 222. After engagement (see fig. 2B), the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 protrudes from the opening 221, and thus also from the device 201. The opening 221 includes a laterally disposed notch 226. These notches 226 remain open when the consumable 202 is received in the opening 221 and may, for example, be used to hold a lid to cover the end of the device 201.

Fig. 2E shows a cross-section through the central longitudinal plane of the device 201. The device 201 is shown with the consumable 202 engaged therewith.

The apparatus 201 includes a heater 204 that includes a heating element 223. The heater 204 forms part of the body 209 of the device 201 and is securely mounted to the body 209. In the illustrated embodiment, heater 204 is a rod-like heater in which heating element 223 has a circular transverse profile. In other embodiments, the heater may be in the form of a blade heater (e.g., a heating element having a rectangular transverse profile) or a tubular heater (e.g., a heating element having a tubular shape).

The heating element 223 of the heater 204 protrudes from the inner base of the cavity 222 along the longitudinal axis towards the opening 221. As is apparent from the drawings, the length of the heating element (i.e., along the longitudinal axis) is less than the depth of the cavity 222. In this manner, the heating element 223 does not protrude from the opening 221 or extend beyond the opening 221.

When the consumable 202 is received in the cavity 222 (as shown in fig. 2E), the heating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate 213 of the consumable 202. In particular, the heating element 223 extends over substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate 213 when the heating element 223 is interposed therein. Thus, when the heater 204 is activated, heat is transferred radially from the outer circumferential surface of the heating element 223 to the aerosol-forming substrate 213.

Alternatively, the heater 204 is movably mounted to the body 209. The heater may be moved longitudinally so that the longitudinal position of the heating element 223 may be changed to control the exposure of the consumable part to the heating element.

The device 201 also includes an electronics cavity 224. A power source in the form of a rechargeable battery 205 (lithium ion battery) is located in the electronics cavity 224.

The device 201 includes a connector in the form of a USB port 206 (i.e., forming part of an I/O module of the device 201). Alternatively, the connector may be, for example, a micro-USB port or a USB-C port. The USB port 206 may be used to charge the rechargeable battery 205.

The apparatus 201 includes a controller (not shown) located in the electronics cavity 224. The controller includes a microcontroller mounted on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). The USB port 206 is also connected to a controller 208 (i.e., to the PCB and microcontroller).

The controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of the apparatus 202. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the operation of the heater 204. Such control of the operation of the heater 204 may be achieved by the controller switching the electrical connection of the rechargeable battery 205 to the heater 204. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the heater 204 in response to a user pressing the button 212. Pressing button 212 may cause the controller to allow voltage (from rechargeable battery 205) to be applied to heater 204 (to cause heating element 223 to heat).

The controller is also configured to control the LED 211 in response to (e.g., detecting) the status of the device 201 or consumable 202. For example, the controller may control the LEDs to indicate whether the device 201 is in an on state or an off state (e.g., one or more LEDs may be illuminated by the controller when the device is in an on state).

The device 201 also includes an input mechanism in the form of a puff sensor 225 (i.e., in addition to the button 212). The puff sensor 225 is configured to detect user puffs (i.e., inhalations) at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202. The suction sensor 225 may be in the form of a pressure sensor, a flow meter, or a microphone, for example. The puff sensor 225 is operably connected to the controller 208 in the electronics cavity 224 such that a signal from the puff sensor 225 indicative of the puff status (i.e., puff or not puff) forms an input to the controller 208 (and thus may be responded to by the controller 208).

Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of a tobacco heating apparatus 301.

The device 301 comprises a heater 304 comprising a heating element.

The device 301 includes a consumable detection sensor 328 and a puff sensor 325. After detecting a predetermined puff signal from the user, the signal from the puff sensor may be used to initiate a mode change from the first mode to the second mode or from the second mode to the first mode. In some embodiments, the predetermined puff signature may be, for example, the user puffing above a puff duration threshold. In some embodiments, the puff sensor 325 may provide a signal to the controller 308 for changing the mode from the first to the second or from the second to the first after detecting a puff of a predetermined duration.

The consumable detection sensor 328 is configured to detect various types of consumables or tobacco. The consumable detection sensor 328 can detect the level of nicotine content present in the tobacco. Consumable detection sensor 328 can detect chemicals or molecules to determine levels of tobacco and/or nicotine content, for example. The consumable detection sensor 328 can be a biosensor that, in use, comes into contact with the consumable and determines the tobacco type or nicotine level. The consumable detection sensor 328 can be an aerosol sensor that detects chemicals present in an aerosol from the consumable to detect tobacco type and/or nicotine level. A consumable detection sensor 328 is operably coupled to the controller 308. The consumable detection sensor 328 can signal the controller 308 of the type of tobacco present in the consumable 202. The signal from consumable detection sensor 328 forms an input to controller 308, based on which controller 308 selects an operating mode.

The controller 308 is configured to operate the heater of the device 202 according to at least two user-selectable operating modes. The two user selectable operating modes are a first mode and a second mode. The first mode may be considered a normal mode or a standard mode. In a first mode, a first amount of nicotine is delivered to a user. The second mode may be considered an "enhanced" mode or a "strengthened" mode. In a second mode, a second amount of nicotine is delivered to the user. The second amount is greater than the first amount. In other words, the device delivers more nicotine to the user when operating in the second mode than in the first mode.

There are many modes of operation mechanisms to achieve differences in the amount of nicotine delivered between modes of operation. Some of these mechanisms are exemplified herein. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other mechanisms are possible.

In some embodiments, the duration of the consumable cycle is longer in the second mode than in the first mode. In other words, the heater is maintained at the operating temperature for a longer period of time in the second mode than in the first mode. Thus, the device is capable of delivering a greater amount of nicotine in the second mode than in the first mode. For example, the heater is operated in the second mode for 5 minutes instead of 4 minutes in the first mode. This allows the user to have a "boosted" consumable cycle that delivers more nicotine. A consumable cycle is the period of time during which a single consumable is heated for use by a user.

In some embodiments, in the second mode, the controller 308 is configured to operate the heater at a higher temperature than in the first mode. Higher temperatures may result in higher nicotine output per puff by the user. Thus, nicotine is delivered at a higher rate in the second mode than in the first mode. The controller 308 may be configured to increase the temperature of the heater 304 by controlling the supply of power to the heater.

The second mode may be selected by a user using a user interface of the device. The user interface may include at least one of a button, a touch screen, a motion sensor, or a voice recognition mechanism. Any of these components may be used to select or change the operating mode of the device. In embodiments including a motion sensor, the device may be configured to change the mode of operation in response to detecting a predetermined motion of the device by the user.

In some embodiments, the device has a default mode, wherein the default mode is one of the first or second operating modes. Unless the user changes modes (e.g., using the user interface of the device), the device will operate according to a default mode. In some embodiments, the device is configured to allow the user to change the default mode. In some embodiments, the device is configured to select the default mode based on historical usage of the device.

In the alternative configured to adjust the visibility of the vapour formed by the aerosol-forming substrate, the controller 208 is configured to operate the heater of the device 201 according to at least two alternative modes. The modes may be user selectable modes. The two user operating modes are a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the controller 208 is configured to control the heating of the heater 204 within a predetermined range. In embodiments, the predetermined range is 140 ℃ to 170 ℃. In this mode, the visibility of the generated vapor is low. In addition, the controller 208 is configured to, in the first mode, primarily deliver nicotine and flavourings in the aerosol/vapour generated from the aerosol-forming substrate 202 with minimal or no visibility of the aerosol. The second mode is a normal/standard mode in which the vapour generated from the aerosol-forming substrate 202 is more visible than the first mode. In the second mode, the controller is configured to maintain the temperature of the heater above 170 ℃ (e.g., at about 200 ℃). The controller 208 is configured to operate the device in either the first mode or the second mode throughout the consumable cycle. The operating temperature of the first mode may vary depending on the type of aerosol-forming substrate 202 selected.

The controller 208 is configured to vary the airflow through the device to vary the pressure drop across the consumable and ultimately vary the amount of steam produced. Varying the gas flow creates a pressure drop in the device. The pressure drop is related to the visibility of the steam formed. Thus, the low pressure drop produces visible steam, and as the pressure drop increases, the visibility of the steam decreases. Thus, to operate the device in the first mode, the controller 208 adjusts the airflow to create a higher pressure drop. In addition, the device includes a mechanism to control the rate of airflow into the device. Alternatively, the device may control the opening of an inlet (not shown) of the device to vary the pressure drop of the airflow entering the device. Similarly, the opening of the airflow channels formed in the device may be varied to vary the pressure drop across the device.

The controller 208 may also be configured to move the heater 204 relative to the aerosol-forming substrate 202 so as to vary the amount of contact between the heater and the substrate according to a selected pattern. The contact amount of the heater in the first mode is smaller than that in the second mode. In other words, in the first mode, the amount of aerosol-forming substrate exposed to the heater is less than the amount of aerosol-forming substrate exposed to the heater in the second mode. Exposure of the aerosol-forming substrate 202 to the heater may alter the visibility of the vapour. A reduction in exposure of the aerosol-forming substrate 202 in the first mode will result in a reduction in the amount of heat transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate 202. Accordingly, the controller 202 may move the heater 204 relative to a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 202 to vary the amount of contact between the heater 204 and the aerosol-forming substrate 202. Alternatively, the controller may vary the length of the cavity 222 for inserting/receiving the aerosol-forming substrate/consumable 202 and keep the heater fixed to vary the amount of contact between the heater and the aerosol-forming substrate 202.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanation provided herein is provided for the purpose of enhancing the reader's understanding. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

Throughout the specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words "having", "including" and "comprising" and variations such as "having", "including", "comprising" and "including" are to be understood as implying inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When a range is so expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term "about" in relation to a numerical value is optional and means, for example +/-10%.

The words "preferred" and "preferably" are used herein to refer to embodiments of the invention that may provide certain benefits under certain circumstances. However, it is to be understood that other embodiments may be preferred, under the same or different circumstances. Thus, recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply or imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure or the claims.

Claims

1. A tobacco heating apparatus comprising:

a heater;

a controller configured to operate the heater according to at least two user selectable operating modes, the operating modes being selectable by a user via a user input mechanism,

wherein the heater is for engaging with a heated tobacco consumable comprising an active component for delivery to the user;

wherein the at least two user-selectable operating modes include:

wherein the heater is operated in a first mode to deliver a first amount of active component to the user, an

A second mode in which the heater is operated to deliver a second amount of active component to the user, an

Wherein the second amount of the active component is greater than the first amount of the active component.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein in the second mode, the controller operates the heater to deliver the active component at a higher rate than in the first mode.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, the controller configured to operate the heater at a first operating temperature in the first mode and at a second operating temperature in the second mode, wherein the second operating temperature is higher than the first operating temperature.

4. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to operate the heater in the first mode for a first consumable cycle duration and in the second mode for a second consumable cycle duration, wherein the second consumable cycle duration is longer than the first consumable cycle duration.

5. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to select from the at least two operating modes based on a user default mode.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the controller is configured to allow the user to set the user default mode.

7. The device of claim 5, wherein the controller is configured to set the user default mode based on historical usage of the device.

8. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the active component is nicotine.

9. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a consumable detection sensor for detecting the type of consumable engaged with the heater or for detecting the active component content of the consumable.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the controller is configured to select from the at least two operating modes based on the detected type of the consumable or based on the active component content of the detected type of the consumable.

11. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the user input mechanism comprises a button.

12. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the user input mechanism comprises a touch screen.

13. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the user input mechanism comprises a motion sensor for detecting a predetermined movement of the device.

14. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the user input mechanism comprises a speech recognition mechanism.