EP3952683A1 - Système de substitution pour fumeurs - Google Patents

Système de substitution pour fumeurs

Info

Publication number
EP3952683A1
EP3952683A1 EP20715923.7A EP20715923A EP3952683A1 EP 3952683 A1 EP3952683 A1 EP 3952683A1 EP 20715923 A EP20715923 A EP 20715923A EP 3952683 A1 EP3952683 A1 EP 3952683A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
consumable
heating element
cleaning
cavity
smoking substitute
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP20715923.7A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
David Lee JONES
Krystian JASINSKI
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
IMPERIAL TOBACCO Ltd
Original Assignee
Nerudia Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from EP19168788.8A external-priority patent/EP3721729A1/fr
Priority claimed from EP20157496.9A external-priority patent/EP3864984A1/fr
Application filed by Nerudia Ltd filed Critical Nerudia Ltd
Publication of EP3952683A1 publication Critical patent/EP3952683A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/85—Maintenance, e.g. cleaning

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a smoking substitute system and particularly, although not exclusively, to a smoking substitute system including a consumable for cleaning a smoking substitute device.
  • Conventional combustible smoking articles such as cigarettes, typically comprise a cylindrical rod of tobacco comprising shreds of tobacco which is surrounded by a wrapper, and usually also a cylindrical filter axially aligned in an abutting relationship with the wrapped tobacco rod.
  • the filter typically comprises a filtration material which is circumscribed by a plug wrap.
  • the wrapped tobacco rod and the filter are joined together by a wrapped band of tipping paper that circumscribes the entire length of the filter and an adjacent portion of the wrapped tobacco rod.
  • a conventional cigarette of this type is used by lighting the end opposite to the filter, and burning the tobacco rod. The smoker receives mainstream smoke into their mouth by drawing on the mouth end or filter end of the cigarette.
  • Such smoking substitute systems can form part of nicotine replacement therapies aimed at people who wish to stop smoking and overcome a dependence on nicotine.
  • Smoking substitute systems include electronic systems that permit a user to simulate the act of smoking by producing an aerosol (also referred to as a“vapour”) that is drawn into the lungs through the mouth (inhaled) and then exhaled.
  • aerosol also referred to as a“vapour”
  • the inhaled aerosol typically bears nicotine and/or flavourings without, or with fewer of, the odour and health risks associated with traditional smoking.
  • smoking substitute systems are intended to provide a substitute for the rituals of smoking, whilst providing the user with a similar experience and satisfaction to those experienced with traditional smoking and with combustible tobacco products.
  • Some smoking substitute systems use smoking substitute articles (also referred to as a“consumables”) that are designed to resemble a traditional cigarette and are cylindrical in form with a mouthpiece at one end.
  • smoking substitute articles also referred to as a“consumables”
  • the popularity and use of smoking substitute systems has grown rapidly in the past few years. Although originally marketed as an aid to assist habitual smokers wishing to quit tobacco smoking, consumers are increasingly viewing smoking substitute systems as desirable lifestyle accessories.
  • HT Heated Tobacco
  • HNB Heat not burn
  • the tobacco may be leaf tobacco or reconstituted tobacco.
  • the vapour may contain nicotine and/or flavourings.
  • the intention is that the tobacco is heated but not burned, i.e. the tobacco does not undergo combustion.
  • a typical HT smoking substitute system may include a device and a HT consumable.
  • the HT consumable may include the tobacco material.
  • the device and HT consumable may be configured to be physically coupled together.
  • heat may be imparted to the tobacco material by a heating element of the device, wherein airflow through the tobacco material causes components in the tobacco material to be released as vapour.
  • a vapour may also be formed from a carrier in the tobacco material (this carrier may for example include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine) and additionally volatile compounds released from the tobacco.
  • the released vapour may be entrained in the airflow drawn through the tobacco.
  • the vapour passes through the consumable (entrained in the airflow) from the location of vaporisation to an outlet of the consumable (e.g. a mouthpiece), the vapour cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user.
  • the aerosol will normally contain the volatile compounds.
  • HT smoking substitute systems heating as opposed to burning the tobacco material is believed to cause fewer, or smaller quantities, of the more harmful compounds ordinarily produced during smoking. Consequently, the HT approach may reduce the odour and/or health risks that can arise through the burning, combustion and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco.
  • a HT consumable After a HT consumable has been consumed, it may be removed from the HT device (and can subsequent be replaced by a further HT consumable for a further smoking session).
  • residue from the removed HT consumable can remain on a heater of the HT device and on the HT device itself.
  • residue on the heater can reduce the ability of the heater to heat the consumable.
  • residue on both the heater and the device may affect the flavour of the aerosol inhaled by a user. Thus, in general, residue may be detrimental to the smoking session.
  • the present invention relates to a cleaning consumable for a smoking substitute device.
  • the cleaning consumable may be configured to receive a heating element therein for cleaning the heating element.
  • a cleaning consumable for cleaning a heating element of a smoking substitute device comprising a substrate formed of cellulose monoacetate and having an elongate bore extending longitudinally at least partly therethrough for receipt of the heating element.
  • a cleaning consumable that comprises a bore for receipt of a heating element may allow cleaning of the heating element by movement (e.g. rotational movement) of the cleaning consumable relative to the heating element. In this way, residue on the heater may be removed by scouring (or abrasion).
  • a cleaning consumable for cleaning a smoking substitute device comprising a cleaning fluid for cleaning at least one of a consumable receiving cavity and a heating element of a smoking substitute device.
  • the cleaning consumable may provide an easy way and intuitive means of cleaning a smoking substitute device to a user of a smoking substitute device, in particular the elements that come in regular contact with an aerosol-forming article, like a tobacco containing consumable, in particular the consumable-receiving cavity and the heating element of the smoking substitute device.
  • a consumable according to the invention may provide the functionality of removing unwanted debris from device, while reducing the chance of damaging the smoking substitute device due to improper handling or cleaning, in particular breakage of a heating element like e.g. a rod heater.
  • the cleaning fluid may be a solvent.
  • said cleaning fluid may effect cleaning of the heating element without the need of a user to physically scraping residue off the heating element.
  • the user may leave the cleaning consumable in the smoking substitute device for a predetermined period of time before its removal from the device. Said predetermined period of time may range from 1 minute to 60 minutes.
  • the user may rotate the cleaning consumable to promote cleaning, e.g. to loosen the residue.
  • the user may remove the cleaning consumable after said predetermined period of time.
  • the consumable may be reusable or disposable after one use.
  • the cleaning fluid may be in a liquid form, or it may be a gel, or it may be a solid liquid suspension comprising solid particles for improving the removal of residue.
  • a rigid form or body may allow the user to hold onto an end of the cleaning consumable during its insertion into the smoking substitute device.
  • a method of cleaning a substitute smoking device comprising inserting a cleaning consumable according to the first or second aspects into an aerosol-forming article receiving cavity of an smoking substitute device; and scouring at least one of the cavity and a heating element arranged in the cavity by agitating the cleaning consumable.
  • the cleaning fluid may be configured to be heated by the heating element.
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise a heat activatable fluid that is configured to activate upon heating.
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise a heat activatable fluid comprising a gel that is configured to phase-change into a liquid upon heating.
  • the cleaning fluid may comprise a solvent and/or a cleaning alcohol component, in particular isopropyl alcohol.
  • the cleaning fluid may only activate to clean the heating element at an elevated temperature, or it may clean the heating element more efficiently at an elevated temperature.
  • the cleaning fluid may comprise a suitable detergent.
  • the cleaning fluid may be capable of removing the residues from the heating element.
  • the cleaning fluid may be configured to be heated by the heating element and as such promote convection in the cavity, as well as enable the removal organic residues more effectively.
  • the cleaning fluid may also capable of carrying out cleaning at ambient temperatures.
  • the consumable may be retained on the heating element for a predetermined period of time ranging from a minute to an hour.
  • the heating element may be activated to heat the cleaning fluid to a temperature below the boiling point of the fluid. Said temperature may range from 25°C to 95°C.
  • the cleaning fluid may clean the heating element more efficiently, e.g. some organic components in the residue may be removed more readily.
  • the cleaning fluid comprises a gel
  • the gel may phase change into a liquid and thereby permits free flow of cleaning fluid within the cleaning capsule.
  • such arrangement encourages convection in the cleaning capsule, and thereby it may result in a more efficient cleaning process.
  • the cleaning fluid may only activate to clean the heating element at an elevated temperature, or it may clean the heating element more efficiently at an elevated temperature.
  • the cleaning fluid may be a substance that promotes the removal of residue, deposits, dirt or debris.
  • the cleaning fluid may be a solvent that removes or promotes removal of these unwanted substances, in particular by reducing adhesion of these substances to surfaces, like the surfaces of the cavity or the heating element. With such a reduced adhesion, a movement of the cleaning consumable in the cavity, e.g. an insertion, a removal or an in-situ movement, like rotation or twisting the cleaning consumable in the cavity, may promote the removal of these unwanted substances.
  • the cleaning consumable may further comprise a substrate formed of cellulose monoacetate and in particularly having an elongate bore extending longitudinally at least partly therethrough for receipt of the heating element.
  • the cleaning consumable may be configured to contact a surface of the cavity and/or of the heating element during its insertion into, rotation in and/or removal from the cavity, and thereby may scrape off residue formed on said surface.
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise a similar cross sectional profile and size of an aerosol-forming article.
  • a longitudinal length of the cleaning consumable may be greater than a longitudinal length of the heating element, in particular greater than the depth of the cavity.
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise a bore extending longitudinally therethrough, and wherein in particular the bore has a transverse cross section that is substantially the same as a transverse cross-section of the heating element.
  • the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate) may have a longitudinal length that is greater than 20 mm.
  • the longitudinal length may be greater than e.g. 30 mm or 40 mm.
  • the longitudinal length may be approximately 50 mm (e.g. 48 mm).
  • the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate) may have a transverse cross-sectional shape that is substantially circular (annular).
  • the cross-sectional shape of the bore may alternatively be rectangular, elliptical, triangular, etc.
  • the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate) may have a diameter (i.e. in a transverse direction) that is greater than 5 mm and less than 15 mm.
  • the diameter may be greater than 5 mm and less than 10 mm.
  • the diameter may e.g. be approximately 7 mm.
  • the shape (e.g. and size) of the cross-section of the consumable (e.g. the substrate) may be consistent for the length (i.e. the entire length) of the consumable.
  • the cleaning consumable may have a longitudinal length that is greater than a longitudinal length of the heating element.
  • the heating element may fully penetrate the substrate when received in cleaning consumable. That is, the entire length, or substantially the entire length, of the heating element may be received in the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate).
  • the heating element may be between 15 mm and 25 mm long, e.g. between 18 mm and 20 mm long, e.g. around 19 mm long.
  • the length of the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate) may be as provided above with respect to the first aspect.
  • the cleaning consumable may have a greater longitudinal length than the cavity (i.e. defining the depth of the cavity).
  • a first axial end of the cleaning consumable may project from the cavity when the cleaning consumable is received in the cavity.
  • This first axial end of the cleaning consumable may be used by a user to move (e.g. rotate) the cleaning consumable when received in the cavity.
  • the opposing second axial end of the consumable may abut a base of the cavity.
  • the second axial end of the consumable may scour the base of the cavity so as to clean the base.
  • a (transverse) cross-sectional of the bore may be substantially the same as a transverse cross-sectional shape of the heater.
  • both the heating element and the bore of the cleaning consumable may have a transverse cross-sectional shape that is substantially circular (i.e. the heating element may be generally cylindrical).
  • both the heating element and the bore of the cleaning consumable may have a transverse cross-sectional shape that is rectangular (i.e. the heater may be a“blade heater”).
  • the heating element may alternatively be in the shape of a tube (i.e. the heater may be a“tube heater”).
  • the bore of the cleaning consumable may have a transverse cross-section that is annular (which may extend only partway through the substrate).
  • the bore may extend (e.g. centrally) fully through the substrate (i.e. from one end of the substrate to an opposing end along the longitudinal length of the consumable).
  • the bore may alternatively only extend partway into the substrate.
  • the bore may have a longitudinal length that is between 15 mm and 25 mm long, e.g. between 18 mm and 20 mm long, e.g. around 19 mm long.
  • the bore may have a transverse cross-sectional shape that is circular (or may e.g. be rectangular, elliptical, etc.)
  • the bore may have a diameter (i.e. in the transverse direction) of between 1 .5 mm and 2.5 mm, e.g. a diameter between 2 mm and 2.3 mm, e.g. a diameter of around 2.15 mm.
  • the shape (e.g. and size) of the cross-section of the bore may be consistent for the length (i.e. the entire length) of the bore.
  • the substrate may be a unitary body. That is, the cleaning consumable may be in the form of a single integrally formed substrate.
  • the substrate e.g. the cellulose acetate substrate may be at least partly circumscribed by a wrapping layer e.g. an abrasive wrapping layer.
  • a smoking substitute device comprising a body and an elongate heating element projecting along a longitudinal axis from the body; and an elongate cleaning consumable comprising a substrate formed of cellulose monoacetate and configured for receipt of the elongate heating element therein for cleaning the elongate heating element.
  • the cleaning consumable may be as described above with respect to the first aspect.
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise a bore extending longitudinally at least partly therethrough.
  • the cleaning consumable e.g. the substrate
  • the cleaning consumable may be solid (i.e. having no bore therethrough).
  • the cleaning consumable e.g. the substrate
  • the cleaning consumable may be cylindrical (rather than e.g. tubular).
  • the cleaning consumable e.g. the substrate
  • the cleaning consumable is formed such that the heating element is able to pierce the substrate (for insertion into the cleaning consumable).
  • the substrate may be formed such that the cleaning consumable is capable of being pierced (e.g. with a force that is similar to that during insertion of a smoking substitute consumable onto the heater).
  • the cleaning consumable e.g. the substrate
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise a weakened portion or a frangible portion that facilitates insertion of the heating element into the cleaning consumable.
  • a distal end of the heating element (i.e. distal from a base of the heating element where it is mounted to the device) may comprise a tapered portion, which may facilitate insertion of the heating element into the cleaning consumable.
  • the shape and/or size (e.g. diameter) of the transverse profile of the heating element may be generally consistent for the entire length (or substantially the entire length) of the heating element.
  • the bore and/or heater may be tapered along their respective lengths.
  • the heating element may have a diameter (e.g. when cylindrical) of between 1 .5 mm and 2.5 mm, e.g. a diameter between 2 mm and 2.3 mm, e.g. a diameter of around 2.15 mm.
  • the diameter of the bore of the cleaning consumable e.g. the substrate
  • the heating element may fit closely within the bore when inserted therein, such that internal surfaces of the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate) (defining the bore) contact outer surfaces of the heating element.
  • the bore may be smaller than the heating element (e.g. in diameter), such that the bore is forced to expand as the heating element is inserted therein. This may ensure contact between the cleaning consumable and the heating element.
  • the cross-sectional area of the bore may be larger than the cross-sectional area of the heating element.
  • the cleaning consumable may have a longitudinal length that is greater than a longitudinal length of the heating element.
  • the heating element may fully penetrate the substrate when received in cleaning consumable. That is, the entire length, or substantially the entire length, of the heating element may be received in the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate).
  • the heating element may be between 15 mm and 25 mm long, e.g. between 18 mm and 20 mm long, e.g. around 19 mm long.
  • the length of the cleaning consumable (e.g. the substrate) may be as provided above with respect to the first aspect.
  • the device may comprise an elongate body. An end of the elongate body may be configured for engagement with a heated tobacco (HT) consumable.
  • the device may comprise a cavity that is configured for receipt of at least a portion of the HT consumable (i.e. for engagement with the HT consumable).
  • the heating element may be disposed in (e.g. and project into) this cavity.
  • the cleaning consumable may have the same size and shape as a HT consumable configured for use with the device.
  • the consumable may have the same cross-section as a filter of the HT consumable.
  • agitating the cleaning consumable may comprise rotating the cleaning consumable about a longitudinal axis of the smoking substitute device, in particular about a longitudinal axis of the heating element.
  • Agitating the cleaning consumable may comprise rotating cleaning consumable about a longitudinal axis of the heating element. Agitating the cleaning consumable may comprise a repetitive movement (e.g. a reciprocating movement along the longitudinal axis). Agitating the cleaning consumable may comprise a combination of longitudinal and rotational movement of the cleaning consumable relative to the heating element.
  • An outer surface of the cleaning consumable may be configured to contact an internal wall of the body defining cavity when received therein.
  • the outer surface (e.g. the wrapping layer) of the cleaning consumable may move against the internal wall of the cavity so as to abrade/scour residue that has accumulated on the surface of the cavity.
  • an outer (e.g. circumferential) surface of the cleaning consumable (which may be at least partially circumscribed by the wrapping layer) may be formed so as to contact (i.e. lie against) an internal wall defining the cavity.
  • the cross-sectional shape (and size) of the cleaning consumable may be substantially the same as the cavity.
  • both the cleaning consumable and cavity may have a circular cross-sectional shape.
  • consumable may substantially fill the cavity when received therein.
  • the heating element may project within the aerosol-forming article receiving cavity of the device, the method may further comprise inserting the cleaning consumable into the cavity for receipt of the heating element into the cleaning consumable, and may further comprise scouring one or more walls defining the cavity by agitating the cleaning consumable in the cavity.
  • the method may further comprise scouring the heating element and the walls of the cavity concurrently, and/or removing the cleaning consumable from the smoking substitute device, thereby scraping off residue formed on at least one of the walls of the cavity and the heating element.
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise a cavity or reservoir and the heating element projects into the cavity or reservoir such that when the cleaning consumable is received in the cavity of the smoking substitute device, the heating element is inserted into the consumable.
  • the cleaning consumable substantially may fill the cavity when received therein.
  • an outer surface of the cleaning consumable may contact an inner wall defining the cavity of the smoking substitute device when received therein.
  • the cleaning consumable may have a greater longitudinal length than the cavity (i.e. defining the depth of the cavity).
  • a first axial end of the cleaning consumable may project from the cavity when the cleaning consumable is received in the cavity.
  • This first axial end of the cleaning consumable may be used by a user to move (e.g. rotate) the cleaning consumable when received in the cavity.
  • the opposing second axial end of the consumable may abut a base of the cavity.
  • the second axial end of the consumable may scour the base of the cavity so as to clean the base.
  • the heating element may be rigidly mounted to the body (e.g. by a mount).
  • the heating element may be formed of ceramic.
  • the heating element may comprise a core (e.g. a ceramic core) comprising AI203.
  • the core of the heating element may have a diameter of 1 .8 mm to 2.1 mm, e.g. between 1 .9 mm and 2 mm.
  • the heating element may comprise an outer layer (e.g. an outer ceramic layer) comprising AI203.
  • the thickness of the outer layer may be between 160 pm and 220 pm, e.g. between 170 pm and 190 pm, e.g. around 180 pm.
  • the heating element may comprise a heating track, which may extend longitudinally along the heating element.
  • the heating track may be sandwiched 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 around 20 pm.
  • the thermally conductive path may connect the heating track to the shroud.
  • the heating track may form part of the thermally conductive path.
  • the heating element may be located in the cavity (of the device), and may extend (e.g. along a longitudinal axis) so as to project into the cavity.
  • the heating element may extend from an internal base of the cavity towards an opening of the cavity.
  • the length of the heating element i.e. along the longitudinal axis of the heating element
  • the length of the heating element may be less than the depth of the cavity.
  • the heating element may extend for only a portion of the length of the cavity. That is, the heating element may not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the cavity.
  • the heating element may be configured for insertion into an aerosol-forming article (e.g. a HT consumable) when an aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity.
  • a distal end (i.e. distal from a base of the heating element where it is mounted to the device) of the heating element may comprise a tapered portion, which may facilitate insertion of the heating element into the aerosol-forming article.
  • the heating element may fully penetrate an aerosol-forming article when the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. That is, the entire length, or substantially the entire length, of the heating element may be received in the aerosol-forming article.
  • the heating element may have a length that is less than, or substantially the same as, an axial length of an aerosol-forming substrate forming part of an aerosol-forming article (e.g. a HT consumable).
  • an aerosol-forming substrate forming part of an aerosol-forming article (e.g. a HT consumable).
  • the heating element may only penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate, rather than other components of the aerosol-forming article.
  • the heating element may penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate for substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol forming-substrate of the aerosol-forming article.
  • heat may be transferred from (e.g. an outer circumferential surface of) the heating element to the surrounding aerosol-forming substrate, when penetrated by the heating element. That is, heat may be transferred radially outwardly (in the case of a cylindrical heating element) or e.g. radially inwardly (in the case of a tube heater).
  • the heating element of the tube heater may surround at least a portion of the cavity.
  • the heating element may surround a portion of the aerosol-forming article (i.e. so as to heat that portion of the aerosolforming article).
  • the heating element may surround an aerosol forming substrate of the aerosolforming article. That is, when an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article may be located adjacent an inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated, heat may be transferred radially inwardly 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(s).
  • the wall may be located between the inner surface of the heating element and an 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.
  • heat may be conducted from the heating element, through the cavity wall (or walls), to the aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-forming article received in the cavity.
  • the device may comprise a cap disposed at the end of the body that is configured for engagement with an aerosol-forming article.
  • the cap may at least partially enclose the heating element.
  • the cap may be moveable between an open position in which access is provided to the heating element, and a closed position in which the cap at least partially encloses the heating element.
  • the cap may be slideably engaged with the body of the device, and may be slideable between the open and closed positions.
  • the cap may define at least a portion of the cavity of the device (i.e. in which the heating element is located). That is, the cavity may be fully defined by the cap, or each of the cap and body may define a portion of the cavity. Where the cap fully defines the cavity, the cap may comprise an aperture for receipt of the heating element into the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position).
  • the cap may comprise an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configured for receipt of at least a portion of the cleaning consumable. That is, the cleaning consumable may be inserted through the opening and into the cavity (for cleaning of the heating element).
  • the cap may be configured such that when an 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. That is, a portion of the aerosol-forming article (not received 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 a user’s mouth for the purpose of inhaling aerosol formed by the device.
  • the device may comprise a power source or may be connectable to a power source (e.g. a power source separate to the device).
  • the power source may be electrically connectable to the heating element. In that respect, altering (e.g. toggling) the electrical connection of the power source to the heating element may affect a state of the heating element. For example, toggling the electrical connection of the power source to the heating element may toggle the heating element between an on state and an off state.
  • the power source may be a power store.
  • the power source may be a battery or rechargeable battery (e.g. a lithium ion battery).
  • the device may comprise an input connection (e.g. a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.).
  • the input connection may be configured for connection to an external source of electrical power, such as a mains electrical supply outlet.
  • the input connection may, in some cases, be used as a substitute for an internal power source (e.g. battery or rechargeable battery). That is, the input connection may be electrically connectable to the heater (for providing power to the heater).
  • the input connection may form at least part of the power source of the device.
  • the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power source.
  • the device may comprise a user interface (Ul).
  • the Ul may include input means to receive operative commands from the user.
  • the input means of the Ul may allow the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the device.
  • the input means may comprise a power button to switch the device between an on state and an off state.
  • the Ul may additionally or alternatively comprise output means to convey information to the user.
  • the output means may comprise a light to indicate a condition of the device to the user.
  • the condition of the device indicated to the user may comprise a condition indicative of the operation of the heater.
  • the condition may comprise whether the heating element is in an off state or an on state.
  • the Ul unit may comprise at least one of a button, a display, a touchscreen, a switch, a light, and the like.
  • the output means may comprise one or more (e.g. two, three, four, etc.) light-emitting diodes (“LEDs”) that may be located on the body of the device.
  • LEDs light-emitting diodes
  • the device may further comprise a puff sensor (e.g. airflow sensor), which form part of the input means of the Ul.
  • the puff sensor may be configured to detect a user drawing on an end (i.e. a terminal (mouth) end) of the aerosol-forming article.
  • the puff sensor may, for example, be a pressure sensor or a microphone.
  • the puff sensor may be configured to produce a signal indicative of a puff state.
  • the signal may be indicative of the user drawing (an aerosol from the aerosol-forming article) such that it is e.g. in the form of a binary signal.
  • the signal may be indicative of a characteristic of the draw (e.g. a flow rate of the draw, length of time of the draw, etc).
  • the device may comprise a controller, or may be connectable to a controller that may be configured to control at least one function of the device.
  • the controller may comprise a microcontroller that may e.g. be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB).
  • the controller may also comprise a memory, e.g. non-volatile memory.
  • the memory may include instructions, which, when implemented, may cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method. Where the device comprises an input connection, the controller may be connected to the input connection.
  • the controller may be configured to control the operation of the heater (and e.g. the heating element).
  • the controller may be configured to control vaporisation of an aerosol forming part of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device.
  • the controller may be configured to control the voltage applied by power source to the heating element.
  • the controller may be configured to toggle between applying a full output voltage (of the power source) to the heater and applying no voltage to the heater.
  • the control unit may implement a more complex heater control protocol.
  • the device may further comprise a voltage regulator to regulate the output voltage supplied by the power source to form a regulated voltage.
  • the regulated voltage may subsequently be applied to the heater.
  • the device may comprise a sensor for detecting the presence of the cleaning consumable in the cavity.
  • the cleaning consumable may comprise an indicator that may be detected by the sensor.
  • the sensor may be a barcode reader, a light sensor, etc. for detecting the presence of the cleaning consumable.
  • the sensor may be configured to detect whether the cleaning consumable or a HT consumable is received in the cavity.
  • the sensor may provide a signal, indicative of a cleaning consumable being received in the cavity, to the controller. In response the controller may deactivate the heater.
  • the device may be configured to deactivate the heater when a cleaning consumable is detected in the cavity. This may ensure that the cleaning consumable is not heated by the heater, which could otherwise present a safety risk.
  • the controller may be operatively connected to one or more components of the Ul.
  • the controller may be configured to receive command signals from an input means of the Ul.
  • the controller may be configured to control the heater in response to the command signals.
  • the controller may be configured to receive“on” and“off command signals from the Ul and, in response, may control the heater so as to be in a corresponding on or off state.
  • the controller may be configured to send output signals to a component of the Ul.
  • the Ul may be configured to convey information to a user, via an output means, in response to such output signals (received from the controller).
  • the LEDs may be operatively connected to the controller.
  • the controller may configured to control the illumination of the LEDs (e.g. in response to an output signal).
  • the controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs according to (e.g. an on or off) state of the heater.
  • 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 engaged aerosol-forming article).
  • the controller may be configured to control the heater, or an aspect of the output means, based on the signal from the sensor.
  • the device may comprise a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly (e.g. via Bluetooth (e.g. a Bluetooth low-energy connection) or WiFi) with an external device.
  • the input connection may be configured for wired connection to an external device so as to provide communication between the device and the external device.
  • the external device may be a mobile device.
  • the external device may be a smart phone, tablet, smart watch, or smart car.
  • An application e.g. app
  • the application may facilitate communication between the device and the external device via the wired or wireless connection.
  • the wireless or wired interface may be configured to transfer signals between the external device and the controller of the device.
  • the controller may control an aspect of the device in response to a signal received from an external device.
  • an external device may respond to a signal received from the device (e.g. from the controller of the device).
  • An 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, e.g. heated tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable).
  • HT heated tobacco
  • HNB heat-not-burn
  • the terms’’’upstream” and“downstream” are intended to refer to the flow direction of the vapour/aerosol i.e. with the downstream end of the article/consumable being 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 opposing end to the downstream end.
  • the aerosol-forming substrate is capable of being heated to release at least one volatile compound that can form an aerosol.
  • the aerosol-forming substrate may be located at the upstream end of the article/consumable.
  • the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised/aerosolised and that may provide the user with a recreational and/or medicinal effect when inhaled.
  • Suitable chemical and/or physiologically active volatile compounds include the group consisting of: nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, opiates and opoids, cathine and cathinone, kavalactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and/or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.
  • the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant material.
  • the plant material may comprise least one plant material selected from the list including Amaranthus dubius, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry), Argemone mexicana, Arnica, Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees, Galea zacatechichi, Canavalia maritima (Baybean), Cecropia mexicana (Guamura), Oestrum noctumum, Cynoglossum virginianum ( wild comfrey), Cytisus scoparius, Damiana, Entada rheedii, Eschscholzia califomica (California Poppy), Fittonia albivenis, Hippobroma long!
  • 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-air cured tobacco, oriental tobacco, dark-fired tobacco, perique tobacco and rustica tobacco. This also includes blends of the above mentioned tobaccos.
  • the tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g. slurry recon or paper recon).
  • the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gathered sheet of homogenised (e.g. paper/slurry recon) tobacco or gathered shreds/strips formed from such a sheet.
  • homogenised e.g. paper/slurry recon
  • the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more additives selected from humectants, flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and binders.
  • the flavourant may be provided in solid or liquid form. It may include menthol, liquorice, chocolate, fruit flavour (including e.g. citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g. ginger, cinnamon) and tobacco flavour.
  • the flavourant may be evenly dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate or may be provided in isolated 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. It may have a diameter of between 5 and 10mm e.g. between 6 and 9mm or 6 and 8mm e.g. around 7 mm. It may have an axial length of between 10 and 15mm e.g. between 1 1 and 14mm such as around 12 or 13mm.
  • the article/consumable may comprise at least one filter element. There may be a terminal filter element at the downstream/mouth end of the article/consumable.
  • the or at least one of the filter element(s) may be comprised of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow.
  • the at least one filter element e.g. the terminal filter element
  • the at least one filter element may be comprised of activated charcoal.
  • the at least one filter element (e.g. the terminal element) may be comprised of paper.
  • the or each filter element may be at least partly (e.g. entirely) circumscribed with a plug wrap e.g. a paper plug wrap.
  • the terminal filter element (at the downstream end of the article/consumable) may be joined to the upstream elements forming the article/consumable by a circumscribing tipping layer e.g. a tipping paper layer.
  • the tipping paper may have an axial length longer than the axial length of the terminal filter element such that the tipping paper completely circumscribes the terminal filter element plus the wrapping layer surrounding any adjacent upstream element.
  • the article/consumable may comprise an aerosol-cooling element which is adapted to cool the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate (by heat exchange) before being inhaled by the user.
  • the article/consumable may comprise a spacer element that defines 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 circumscribed by the (paper) wrapping layer.
  • kits comprising a cleaning consumable according to the first or second aspect and at least one e.g. a plurality of smoking substitute consumables.
  • the smoking substitute consumable(s) may be heat not burn (HNB) (or HT) consumables.
  • the heat not burn consumable(s) may each comprise an aerosol-forming substrate and one or more filters.
  • the cleaning consumable and smoking substitute consumable ⁇ ) may have substantially the same shape.
  • the cleaning consumable and smoking substitute consumable(s) may have substantially the same length and e.g. diameter/cross-sectional area.
  • a method of cleaning a smoking substitute device comprising inserting an elongate heating element of the device into a cleaning consumable, and scouring the heating element by agitating the cleaning consumable.
  • the scouring may be such that residue that has accumulated on the heating element may be removed/dislodged/abraded from the heating element by the cleaning consumable.
  • the cleaning consumable and the device may be as described above with respect to the first and second aspects.
  • Agitating the cleaning consumable may comprise rotating cleaning consumable about a longitudinal axis of the heating element. Agitating the cleaning consumable may comprise a repetitive movement (e.g. a reciprocating movement along the longitudinal axis). Agitating the cleaning
  • the consumable may comprise a combination of longitudinal and rotational movement of the cleaning consumable relative to the heating element.
  • the heating element may project within a cavity of the device, and the method may comprise inserting the cleaning consumable into the cavity (so as to receive the heating element therein).
  • the method may comprise scouring one or more inner walls of the device defining the cavity. In this way, the heating element and the inner walls of the device may be scoured concurrently using the cleaning consumable.
  • the method may comprise substantially filling the cavity with the cleaning consumable.
  • a method of cleaning a smoking substitute device comprising an elongate heating element projecting within a cavity defined by inner walls of the device, the method comprising inserting a cleaning consumable into the cavity such that the elongate heating element is received in the cleaning consumable, and scouring the inner walls by agitating the cleaning consumable.
  • the cleaning consumable and device of the eighth aspect may be as otherwise described above with respect to the first, second or third aspects.
  • the method may comprise scouring the inner walls by using the rotational motion and/or reciprocating motion of the cleaning consumable as discussed above in relation to the fourth aspect.
  • the method may comprise scouring the inner walls and heating element
  • the invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.
  • Figure 1A is a schematic of a smoking substitute system
  • Figure 1 B is a schematic of a variation of the smoking substitute system of Figure 1A;
  • Figure 2A is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitute system with the consumable engaged with the device;
  • Figure 2B is a front view of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system with the consumable disengaged from the device;
  • Figure 2C is a section view of the consumable of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system
  • Figure 2D is a detailed view of an end of the device of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system
  • Figure 2E is a section view of the first embodiment of the substitute smoking system
  • Figures 3A, 3B and 3C are a perspective view, side section view and front section view of a cleaning consumable according to a first embodiment
  • Figures 4A and 4B are a side section view and front section view of a cleaning consumable according to a second embodiment
  • Figure 5A is a front view of a smoking substitute system with a cleaning consumable disengaged from the device.
  • Figures 5B and 5C are front and section views of the smoking substitute system with the cleaning consumable engaged with the device.
  • FIG. 1 A is a schematic providing a general overview of a smoking substitute system 100.
  • the system 100 includes a substitute smoking device 101 and an aerosol-forming article in the form of a consumable 102, which comprises an aerosol former 103.
  • the system is configured to vaporise the aerosol former by heating the aerosol former 103 (so as to form a vapour/aerosol for inhalation by a user).
  • the heater 104 forms part of the consumable 102 and is configured to heat the aerosol former 103.
  • the heater 104 is electrically connectable to the power source 105, for example, when the consumable 102 is engaged with the device 101 .
  • Heat from the heater 104 vaporises the aerosol former 103 to produce a vapour.
  • the vapour subsequently condenses to form an aerosol, which is ultimately inhaled by the user.
  • the system 100 further comprises a power source 105 that forms part of the device 101 .
  • the power source 105 may be external to (but connectable to) the device 101 .
  • the power source 105 is electrically connectable to the heater 104 such that it is able to supply power to the heater 104 (i.e. for the purpose of heating the aerosol former 103).
  • 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 store, for example a battery or rechargeable battery (e.g. a lithium ion battery).
  • the system 100 further comprises an I/O module comprising a connector 106 (e.g. in the form of a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.).
  • the connector 106 is configured for connection to an external source of electrical power, e.g. a mains electrical supply outlet.
  • the connector 106 may be used in substitution for the power source 105. That is the connector 106 may be electrically connectable to the heater 104 so as to supply electricity to the heater 104.
  • the device may not include a power source, and the power source of the system may instead comprise the connector 106 and an external source of electrical power (to which the connector 106 provides electrical connection).
  • the connector 106 may be used to charge and recharge the power source 105 where the power source 105 includes a rechargeable battery.
  • the system 100 also comprises a user interface (Ul) 107.
  • the Ul 107 may include input means to receive commands from a user.
  • the input means of the Ul 107 allows the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the system 100.
  • the input means may, for example, be in the form of a button, touchscreen, switch, microphone, etc.
  • the Ul 107 also comprises output means to convey information to the user.
  • the output means may, for example, comprise lights (e.g. LEDs), a display screen, speaker, vibration generator, etc.
  • the system 100 further comprises a controller 108 that is configured to control at least one function of the device 101 .
  • the controller 108 is a component of the device 101 , but in other embodiments may be separate from (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 from the power source 105 to the heater 104.
  • the controller 108 may be configured to toggle the supply of power to the heater 104 between an on state, in which the full output voltage of the power source 105 is applied to the heater 104, and an off state, in which the no voltage is applied to the heater 104.
  • the system 100 may also comprise a voltage regulator to regulate the output voltage from the power source 105 to form a regulated voltage.
  • the regulated voltage may then be applied to the heater 104.
  • the controller 108 is operatively connected to the Ul 107.
  • the controller 108 may receive an input signal from the input means of the Ul 107.
  • the controller 108 may transmit output signals to the Ul 107.
  • the output means of the Ul 107 may convey information, based on the output signals, to a user.
  • the controller also comprises a memory 109, which is a non-volatile memory.
  • the memory 109 includes instructions, which, when implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.
  • Figure 1 B is a schematic showing a variation of the system 100 of Figure 1A.
  • the heater 104 forms part of the device 101 , rather than the consumable 102.
  • the heater 104 is electrically connected to the power source 105.
  • Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a heated-tobacco (HT) smoking substitute system 200.
  • the system 200 is an example of the systems 100, 100’ described in relation to Figures 1 A or 1 B.
  • System 200 includes an HT device 201 and an HT consumable 202.
  • the description of Figures 1A and 1 B above is applicable to the system 200 of Figures 2A and 2B, and will thus not be repeated.
  • the device 201 and the consumable 202 are configured such that the consumable 202 can be engaged with the device 201 .
  • Figure 2A shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in an engaged state
  • Figure 2B shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in a disengaged state.
  • the device 201 comprises a body 209 and cap 210. In use the cap 210 is engaged at an end of the body 209. Although not apparent from the figures, the cap 210 is moveable relative to the body 209. In particular, the cap 210 is slideable and can slide along a longitudinal axis of the body 209.
  • the device 201 comprises an output means (forming part of the Ul of the device 201) in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 21 1 arranged linearly along the longitudinal axis of the device 201 and on an outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201 .
  • a button 212 is also arranged 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 21 1 .
  • FIG. 2C show a detailed section view of the consumable of 202 of the system 200.
  • the consumable 202 generally resembles a cigarette.
  • the consumable 202 has a generally cylindrical form with a diameter of 7 mm 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.
  • the consumable may further comprise a cooling element.
  • a cooling element may exchange heat with vapour that is formed by the aerosol-forming substrate 213 in order to cool the vapour so as to facilitate condensation of the vapour.
  • the aerosol-forming substrate 213 is substantially cylindrical and is located at an upstream end 217 of the consumable 202, and comprises the aerosol former of the system 200.
  • the aerosol forming substrate 213 is configured to be heated by the device 201 to release a vapour.
  • the released vapour is subsequently entrained in an airflow flowing through the aerosol-forming substrate 213.
  • the airflow is produced by the action of the user drawing on a downstream 218 (i.e. terminal or mouth) end of the consumable 202.
  • the aerosol forming substrate 213 comprises tobacco material that may, for example, include any suitable parts of the tobacco plant (e.g. leaves, stems, roots, bark, seeds and flowers).
  • the tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g. slurry recon or paper recon).
  • the aerosolforming substrate 213 may comprise a gathered sheet of homogenised (e.g. paper/slurry recon) tobacco or gathered shreds/strips formed from such a sheet.
  • the aerosol forming substrate 213 comprises at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised/aerosolised and that may provide the user with a recreational and/or medicinal effect when inhaled.
  • the aerosol-forming substrate 213 may further comprise one or more additives.
  • additives may be in the form of humectants (e.g. propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine), flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and/or binders.
  • the terminal filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical, and is located downstream of the aerosol forming substrate 213 at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202.
  • the terminal filter element 214 is in the form of a hollow bore filter element having a bore 219 (e.g. for airflow) formed therethrough. The diameter of the bore 219 is 2 mm.
  • the terminal filter element 214 is formed of a porous (e.g. monoacetate) filter material.
  • the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 i.e. where the terminal filter 214 is located
  • Airflow is drawn from the upstream end 217, thorough the components of the consumable 202, and out of the downstream end 218.
  • the airflow is driven by the user drawing on the downstream end 218 (i.e. the mouthpiece portion) of the consumable 202.
  • the upstream filter element 215 is located axially adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate 213, between the aerosol-forming substrate 213 and the terminal filter element 214. Like the terminal 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 way, the upstream filter 215 may act as an airflow restrictor.
  • the upstream filter element 215 is formed of a porous (e.g. monoacetate) filter material.
  • the bore 220 of the upstream filter element 215 has a larger diameter (3 mm) than the terminal filter element 214.
  • the spacer 216 is in the form of a cardboard tube, which defines a cavity or chamber between the upstream filter element 215 and the terminal filter element 214.
  • the spacer 216 acts to allow both cooling and mixing of the vapour/aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate 213.
  • the spacer has an external diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 14mm.
  • the aerosol-forming substrate 213, upstream filter 215 and spacer 216 are circumscribed by a paper wrapping layer.
  • the terminal filter 214 is circumscribed by a tipping layer that also circumscribes a portion of the paper wrapping layer (so as to connect the terminal filter 214 to the remaining components of the consumable 202).
  • the upstream filter 215 and terminal filter 214 are circumscribed by further wrapping layers in the form of plug wraps.
  • Figure 2D illustrates a detailed view of the end of the device 201 that is configured to engage with the consumable 202.
  • the cap 210 of the device 201 includes an opening 221 to an internal cavity 222 (more apparent from Figure 2D) defined by the cap 210.
  • the opening 221 and the cavity 222 are formed so as to receive at least a portion of the consumable 202.
  • a portion of the consumable 202 is received through the opening 221 and into the cavity 222.
  • the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 protrudes from the opening 221 and thus also protrudes from the device 201 .
  • the opening 221 includes laterally disposed notches 226. When a consumable 202 is received in the opening 221 , these notches 226 remain open and could, for example, be used for retaining a cover in order to cover the end of the device 201 .
  • Figure 2E shows a cross section through a central longitudinal plane through the device 201 .
  • the device 201 is shown with the consumable 202 engaged therewith.
  • the device 201 comprises a heater 204 comprising heating element 223.
  • the heater 204 forms part of the body 209 of the device 201 and is rigidly mounted to the body 209.
  • the heater 204 is a rod heater with a heating element 223 having a circular transverse profile.
  • the heater may be in the form of a blade heater (e.g. heating element with a rectangular transverse profile) or a tube heater (e.g. heating element with a tubular form).
  • the heating element 223 of the heater 204 projects from an internal base of the cavity 222 along a longitudinal axis towards the opening 221 .
  • the length (i.e. along the longitudinal axis) of the heating element is less than a depth of the cavity 222. In this way, the heating element 223 does not protrude from or extend beyond the opening 221 .
  • the heating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate 213 of the consumable 202.
  • the heating element 223 extends for nearly the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate 213 when inserted therein.
  • the heater 204 is activated, heat is transferred radially from an outer circumferential surface the heating element 223 to the aerosol-forming substrate 213.
  • the device 201 further comprises an electronics cavity 224.
  • a power source in the form of a rechargeable battery 205 (a lithium ion battery), is located in electronics cavity 224.
  • the device 201 includes a connector (i.e. forming part of an IO module of the device 201) in the form of a USB port 206.
  • the connector may alternatively be, for example, a micro-USB port or a USB-C port for examples.
  • the USB port 206 may be used to recharge the rechargeable battery 205.
  • the device 201 includes a controller (not shown) located in the electronics cavity 224.
  • the controller comprises a microcontroller mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB).
  • PCB printed circuit board
  • the USB port 206 is also connected to the controller 208 (i.e. connected to the PCB and microcontroller).
  • the controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of the device 202.
  • the controller 208 is configured to control the operation of the heater 204.
  • Such control of the operation of the heater 204 may be accomplished by the controller toggling the electrical connection of the rechargeable battery 205 to the heater 204.
  • the controller 208 is configured to control the heater 204 in response to a user depressing the button 212. Depressing the button 212 may cause the controller to allow a voltage (from the rechargeable battery 205) to be applied to the heater 204 (so as to cause the heating element 223 to be heated).
  • the controller is also configured to control the LEDs 21 1 in response to (e.g. a detected) a condition of the device 201 or the consumable 202.
  • 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 of the LEDs may be illuminated by the controller when the device is in an on state).
  • the device 201 comprises a further input means (i.e. in addition to the button 212) in the form of a puff sensor 225.
  • the puff sensor 225 is configured to detect a user drawing (i.e. inhaling) at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202.
  • the puff sensor 225 may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor, flowmeter or a microphone.
  • the puff sensor 225 is operatively connected to the controller 208 in the electronics cavity 224, such that a signal from the puff sensor 225, indicative of a puff state (i.e. drawing or not drawing), forms an input to the controller 208 (and can thus be responded to by the controller 208).
  • FIG. 3A, 3B and 3C illustrate a first embodiment of a cleaning consumable 300 for a smoking substitute device.
  • the cleaning consumable 300 is in the form of an elongate unitary substrate, e.g. formed of a cellulose monoacetate, and comprises a bore 301 extending centrally through the cleaning consumable 300 along a longitudinal axis.
  • the cleaning consumable is for cleaning a cavity and/or a heating element of the smoking substitute device.
  • this bore 301 is for receipt of a heating element (223) of the smoking substitute device (201) for cleaning the heating element.
  • the cleaning consumable 300 comprises an annular transverse cross-section so as to have an outer circumferential surface 302 surrounding (and concentrically aligned with) an internal circumferential surface 303 (defining the bore 301 ).
  • the outer 302 and inner 303 circumferential surfaces extend between transverse (annular shaped) ends 304a, 304b of the cleaning consumable 300.
  • the cleaning consumable 300 exemplarily may have a longitudinal length of 48 mm and an outer diameter of 7 mm.
  • the diameter of the bore may be 2.15 mm.
  • the material of the cleaning consumable 300 may comprise a cleaning fluid.
  • a cleaning fluid may be contained in, e.g. deposited in the substrate.
  • the substrate may be soaked in the cleaning fluid.
  • the gel may be deposited in the substrate.
  • the cleaning fluid may be heat activatable. This may comprise that the cleaning fluid is comparably viscous so to remain in the material of the cleaning consumable 300 in an unheated situation, and becomes more liquid when exposed to heat, e.g. from the heating element.
  • the optional cleaning fluid may promote removal of unwanted substances, and may in particular transport said substance to the interior of the cleaning consumable for removal.
  • the unwanted substances may be transported into the cleaning consumable and gets“trapped” there by a subsequent removal of heat source or a cooling down, like switching off again the heating element.
  • Figures 4A and 4B are a side section view and front section view of a cleaning consumable according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4A and 4B illustrate a second embodiment of a cleaning consumable 400.
  • the cleaning consumable 400 of figures 4A and 4B is similar in shape to the cleaning consumable 300 of the first embodiment, except that it does not comprise a bore.
  • the cleaning consumable 400 has a solid cylindrical shape defined by an outer circumferential surface 402 and opposing (circular) ends 404a, 404b.
  • the cleaning consumable 400 is for cleaning a cavity and/or a heating element of a smoking substitute device. Because the cleaning consumable 400 does not include a bore, it may be configured to be pierced by the heating element for receipt of the heating element therein.
  • the cleaning consumable 400 is formed of a cellulose monoacetate that is formed so as to allow this piercing to occur.
  • the cleaning consumable 400 may comprise a cleaning fluid. In such embodiments, the cleaning consumable 400 may comprise a cavity or reservoir containing the cleaning fluid that may be opened by the piercing into with the heating element. A membrane may contain the cleaning fluid in the unpenetrated situation.
  • the cleaning fluid may substantially distribute evenly throughout the material of the cleaning consumable 400.
  • the membrane may provide a seal around the opening of the heating element, when penetrated into the reservoir, thereby avoiding leaking of cleaning fluid.
  • the membrane When being removed from the cavity, the membrane may scrape off unwanted substance from the heating element and retain the same in the reservoir.
  • the membrane When being removed, the membrane may provide a self-sealing functionality so that remaining cleaning fluid does not leave the reservoir.
  • the cleaning fluid may be as described in relation to cleaning consumable 300, and in particular may be heat activatable.
  • the heating element may be surrounded by or immersed in the cleaning fluid contained the reservoir.
  • the membrane may be adapted to remain in contact with the heating element when the heating element is received in the cavity or reservoir of the cleaning consumable, e.g. it forms a peripheral seal around the heating element. This ensures retention of residues in the cavity on removal from the heating element.
  • the membrane may be configured to remain in contact with the heating element during its removal therefrom, and thereby it is configured to scrape residue off the heating element.
  • Figure 5A is a front view of a smoking substitute system with a cleaning consumable disengaged from the device.
  • Figures 5B and 5C are front and section views of the smoking substitute system with the cleaning consumable engaged with the device.
  • FIGs 5A, 5B and 5C illustrate a heated-tobacco (HT) smoking substitute system 505.
  • the system 505 comprises a smoking substitute device 506 and a cleaning consumable 500 that is similar to the cleaning consumables 300,400 described above and shown in figures 3A to 3C and 4A, 4B.
  • the smoking substitute device 506 is for use with HT consumables 202.
  • the smoking substitute device 506 and the cleaning consumable 500 are configured such that the cleaning consumable 500 can be engaged with the smoking substitute device 506 for cleaning.
  • Figure 5A shows the smoking substitute device 506 and the consumable 502 in a disengaged state
  • Figure 5B shows the smoking substitute device 506 and the cleaning consumable 500 in an engaged state.
  • the cleaning consumable 500 can be rotated when engaged with the smoking substitute device 506 for cleaning.
  • the smoking substitute device 506 is similar as described before in relation to Figs. 2A and 2B and comprises a body 507 and cap 508.
  • the cap 508 is engaged at an end of the body 507.
  • the cap 508 is moveable relative to the body 507.
  • the cap 508 is slideable and can slide along a longitudinal axis of the body 507.
  • the smoking substitute device 506 also comprises an output means (forming part of the Ul of the smoking substitute device 506) in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 509 arranged linearly along the longitudinal axis of the smoking substitute device 506 and on an outer surface of the body 507 of the smoking substitute device 506.
  • a button 510 is also arranged on an outer surface of the body 507 of the smoking substitute device 506 and is axially spaced (i.e. along the longitudinal axis) from the plurality of LEDs 509.
  • FIG. 5C illustrates a second view of the smoking substitute device 506 with the cleaning consumable 500 in an engaged state.
  • the cap 508 of the smoking substitute device 506 includes an opening 221 to an internal cavity 514 defined by a circumferential internal wall 51 1 of the cap 508.
  • the opening 221 and the cavity 514 are formed so as to receive a portion of the cleaning consumable 500 therein. That is, during engagement of the cleaning consumable 500 with the smoking substitute device 506, a portion of the cleaning consumable 500 is received through the opening 221 and into the cavity 514. After such engagement, a first axial end 504a of the cleaning consumable 500 protrudes from the cavity 514 (i.e. so as to protrude from the smoking substitute device 506).
  • this first axial end 504a can be gripped by a user for removing the cleaning consumable 500 from the smoking substitute device 506 and for moving or agitating (e.g. rotating) the cleaning consumable 500 in the smoking substitute device 506.
  • the smoking substitute device 506 comprises a heater 512 comprising heating element 513.
  • the heater 512 projects into a HT consumable so as to heat e.g. a tobacco portion of the HT consumable. This produces an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user.
  • the HT consumable can be removed. In some cases, unwanted material like residue from the HT consumable may remain (e.g. stuck) on the heating element 513 and the walls of cavity 514 when the HT consumable is removed.
  • the cleaning consumable 500 may be used to remove this unwanted material from the heating element 513 and/or the cavity walls.
  • the heater 512 is rigidly mounted to the body 508 and projects into the cavity 514 defined by the circumferential internal wall 51 1 .
  • the heater 512 is a rod heater and the heating element 513 has a circular transverse profile.
  • the heating element 513 projects from an internal base of the cavity 514 along a longitudinal axis towards the opening.
  • the length (i.e. along the longitudinal axis) of the heating element 513 is less than a depth of the cavity 514. In this way, the heating element 513 does not protrude from or extend beyond the opening (i.e. beyond the end of the smoking substitute device 506).
  • the shape and size of the cleaning consumable 500 is substantially the same as the shape and size of a HT consumable for use with the smoking substitute device 506. In this way, the cleaning consumable 500 can replace a HT consumable in packaging containing a plurality of HT consumables without necessitating changes to the packaging.
  • the heating element 513 is received in the bore 501 of the cleaning consumable 500. Substantially the entire length of the heating element 513 is received in the bore 501 .
  • the diameter of the bore 501 is substantially the same as the diameter of the heating element 513 such that the heating element 513 closely fits within the bore 501 . In this way, an outer circumferential surface of the heating element 513 contacts (i.e. lies against) the inner circumferential surface 503 of the cleaning consumable 500.
  • the inner circumferential surface 503 may move across an outer surface of the heating element 513 so as to scour or abrade residue that has collected on the heating element 513 (e.g. through use of the smoking substitute device 506).
  • an outer circumferential surface 502 of the cleaning consumable may move across an inner surface or wall of the cavity so as to scour or abrade residue that has collected on the walls of the cavity (e.g. through use of the smoking substitute device 506).
  • such movement may be in the form of a rotation (i.e. twisting) of the cleaning consumable 500 about the longitudinal axis of the heating element
  • This movement may be performed by a user gripping an end of the consumable 500 projecting from the cavity 514 (when the consumable 500 is received therein)
  • the outer circumferential surface 502 of the cleaning consumable 500 has substantially the same diameter (and shape) as the cavity 514 such that the cleaning consumable 500 substantially fills the cavity
  • the cleaning consumable 500 closely fits within the cavity 514 such that the outer circumferential surface 502 of the cleaning consumable 500 contacts and lies against the inner wall 51 1 of the smoking substitute device 506.
  • the outer circumferential surface 502 moves across the inner wall 51 1 of the smoking substitute device 506 so as to scour or abrade residue that has collected on the inner wall 51 1 .
  • such movement may be in the form of rotation of the cleaning consumable about a longitudinal axis of the heating element 513.
  • the smoking substitute device 506 further comprises an electronics cavity 515.
  • a power source in the form of a rechargeable battery 516 (a lithium ion battery), is located in electronics cavity 515.
  • the smoking substitute device 506 includes a controller (not shown) located in the electronics cavity 515, which comprises a microcontroller mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB).
  • the controller is configured to control at least one function of the smoking substitute device 506.
  • the controller is configured to control the operation of the heater 512.
  • Such control of the operation of the heater 512 may be accomplished by the controller toggling the electrical connection of the rechargeable battery 516 to the heater 512.
  • the controller is configured to control the heater 512 in response to the user depressing the button 510. Depressing the button 510 may cause the controller to allow a voltage (from the rechargeable battery 516) to be applied to the heater 512 (so as to cause the heating element 513 to be heated).
  • the smoking substitute device 506 may comprise a sensor for detecting the presence of the cleaning consumable 500 in the cavity 514.
  • the sensor is, in particular, configured to detect between the presence of a cleaning consumable 500 in the cavity 514 and a HT consumable.
  • the cleaning consumable 500 may comprise a colour indicator, bar code, magnetic strip etc. that may be detected by the sensor and that, when detected, is indicative of the cleaning consumable being received in the cavity 514.
  • the sensor may provide a signal to the controller that is indicative of a cleaning consumable 500 (as opposed to a HT consumable) being received in the cavity 514.
  • the controller may be configured such that, in response, the controller prevents activation of the heater 512 (i.e. even when requested by a user via the button 310). Thus, activation of the heater 512 may be prevented whilst the smoking substitute device 506 is being cleaned (which could otherwise present a safety issue).
  • the controller may instead be configured to initiate a heater protocol representative of a cleaning cycle.
  • the button 510 may be used to initiate the cleaning, e.g. to start a predetermined cleaning cycle.
  • the cleaning cycle may be dependent on the type of any cleaning fluid being arranged in the consumable. In other words, dependent on the cleaning fluid type, if present, different cleaning cycles may be initiated. E.g. it may be conceivable that one type of cleaning fluid is used for regular cleaning, while a different cleaning fluid may be used for a less regular intensive cleaning.
  • Each type of cleaning fluid may be associated with a defined activation (or the absence of activation) of the heating element to heat (or not heat) the cleaning fluid, e.g. a heat activatable cleaning fluid.
  • the heating element can be cleaned and does not require user to clean the heating element by a cleaning tool, This not only ensures easy and efficient cleaning, but also reduces the chances of damaging of the heating element during cleaning by the cleaning tool.
  • the controller is also configured to control the LEDs 509 in response to (e.g. a detected) a condition of the smoking substitute device 506.
  • the controller may control the LEDs to indicate whether the smoking substitute device 506 is in an on state or an off state (e.g. one or more of the LEDs may be illuminated by the controller when the smoking substitute device 506 is in an on state).

Abstract

L'invention concerne un consommable de nettoyage pour nettoyer un élément chauffant d'un dispositif de substitution pour fumeurs. Le consommable comprend un substrat formé d'un monoacétate de cellulose et a un alésage oblong s'étendant longitudinalement à travers celui-ci pour la réception de l'élément chauffant. L'invention concerne également un système comprenant un consommable de nettoyage et un dispositif de substitution pour fumeurs ayant un élément chauffant oblong. Le consommable de nettoyage est conçu pour recevoir l'élément chauffant pour nettoyer l'élément chauffant.
EP20715923.7A 2019-04-11 2020-04-08 Système de substitution pour fumeurs Pending EP3952683A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP19168788.8A EP3721729A1 (fr) 2019-04-11 2019-04-11 Moyens de nettoyage de système de substitution du tabac
EP20157496.9A EP3864984A1 (fr) 2020-02-14 2020-02-14 Système de substitution du tabac
PCT/EP2020/060013 WO2020208071A1 (fr) 2019-04-11 2020-04-08 Système de substitution pour fumeurs

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3952683A1 true EP3952683A1 (fr) 2022-02-16

Family

ID=70058401

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20715923.7A Pending EP3952683A1 (fr) 2019-04-11 2020-04-08 Système de substitution pour fumeurs

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3952683A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2020208071A1 (fr)

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2201850A1 (fr) * 2008-12-24 2010-06-30 Philip Morris Products S.A. Article incluant des informations d'identification à utiliser dans un système de fumée chauffé thermiquement
EP2609821A1 (fr) * 2011-12-30 2013-07-03 Philip Morris Products S.A. Procédé et appareil pour nettoyer un élément de chauffage d'un dispositif de génération d'aérosol
EP3136887B1 (fr) * 2014-04-30 2018-02-28 Philip Morris Products S.a.s. Consommable pour un dispositif de génération d'aérosol
WO2019030166A1 (fr) * 2017-08-09 2019-02-14 Philip Morris Products S.A. Dispositif générateur d'aérosol doté d'un dispositif de chauffage par induction avec ouverture latérale

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2020208071A1 (fr) 2020-10-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3711550A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711561A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711552B1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3712082A1 (fr) Emballage pour un dispositif de substitution du tabac
EP3711562A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711514A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711539A1 (fr) Système de chauffage sans combustion
EP3711532A1 (fr) Capsule de nettoyage pour dispositif de substitution du tabac
EP3864984A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3858173A1 (fr) Dispositif de nettoyage pour dispositif de substitution du tabac
EP3711563A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711528A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
WO2020208071A1 (fr) Système de substitution pour fumeurs
EP3780904A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711536A1 (fr) Dispositif de chauffage pour système de substitution du tabac
EP3711576A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac avec outil de demontage de couvercle
EP3711566A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711511A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711545A1 (fr) Appareil de chauffage pour système de substitution du tabac
EP3711548A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711525A1 (fr) Système de substitution du tabac
EP3711574A1 (fr) Outil pour un système de substitution du tabac
EP3858172A1 (fr) Dispositif de nettoyage pour dispositif de substitution du tabac
EP3858166A1 (fr) Outil de retrait de bouchon pour un dispositif de substitution du tabac, dispositif de substitution du tabac et système
EP3711544A1 (fr) Outil pour système de substitution du tabac

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20211101

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: IMPERIAL TOBACCO LIMITED