EP4623725A1

EP4623725A1 - Mouthpiece for an aerosol provision system

Info

Publication number: EP4623725A1
Application number: EP24167705.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: David Roberts
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2024-03-28
Filing date: 2024-03-28
Publication date: 2025-10-01
Also published as: WO2025202439A1

Abstract

There is provided a mouthpiece for an article comprising aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol provision device. The mouthpiece has a body comprising a slot wherein the slot defines a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article comprising aerosol generating material.

Description

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a mouthpiece for an article comprising aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol provision system. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating article system, and an aerosol provision system.

Background

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, the material. The material may be for example tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.
Such articles comprising aerosol generating material are used in an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device and the article to provide an aerosol to a user. Typically, a portion of the article protrudes from aerosol provision device to provide a mouthpiece for a user to place their lips.

Summary

According to an aspect, there is provided a mouthpiece for an article comprising aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol provision system, the mouthpiece comprising: a body comprising a slot; the slot defining a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article comprising aerosol generating material.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may be configured to deform between a storage condition and a deformed condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise a slot opening, a receiving area of the slot opening in the deformed condition being greater than the receiving area of the slot opening in the storage condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, a volume of the slot may be greater when the body is in the deformed condition than when the body is in the storage condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may be configured to accommodate the article in the deformed condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may be unable to accommodate the article in the storage condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may comprise a first panel and a second panel and the slot may be defined between the first and second panels.
In an embodiment of any of the above, at least one of the first panel and the second panel may comprise a paper-based material.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the paper-based material may be a card.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the first panel may contact the second panel in the storage condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the slot is a slit in the storage condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise an intermediate layer between the first panel and the second panel.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the intermediate layer may define the slot.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the intermediate layer may space the first panel from the second panel.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the intermediate layer may be an intermediate panel.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise a mouth end and a distal end opposite the mouth end.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the slot may be in the distal end of the mouthpiece.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the first panel and the second panel may be mounted along the mouth end, a first side and a second side may extend between the mouth end and the distal end.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the first panel and the second panel may be mounted to each other.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the first panel and the second panel may be mounted to the intermediate layer.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may be biased into the storage condition.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the slot may be formed along at least part of an edge of the body.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the slot may be configured to receive a non-circular cross-section article.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise a flow path extending from the slot to a mouth end edge.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise a flow outlet at the mouth end edge.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may sandwich at least a portion of the article.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may be biased to grip at least a portion of the article when the article is received in the slot.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the slot may comprise a seal configured to form a seal between the article and the slot.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the shape of the slot may be configured to conform with a cross-sectional shape of the article.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may be configured to form an interference fit with the article.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may be disposable.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the slot may be configured to be received over an end of the article.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may be configured to be used with a plurality of articles.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may be configured to capture condensation released from the article.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may be absorbent.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise a hydrophobic coating.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may be supplementary aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material in the mouthpiece may generate an aerosol in response to an airflow or a heating effect on the mouthpiece. The heating effect may be provided by at least one of the airflow, the article and the aerosol provision device.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may comprise an aerosol-modifying agent. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent may be a supplementary aerosol-modifying agent. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent in the mouthpiece may act in response to an airflow or a heating effect on the mouthpiece. The heating effect may be provided by at least one of the airflow, the article and the aerosol provision device.
In an embodiment of any of the above, an outer surface of the mouthpiece may comprise a surface pattern or texture. In an embodiment of any of the above, one or both of the first and second panels may comprise a surface pattern or texture. The surface pattern or texture may be proximal to the mouth end of the mouthpiece. The surface pattern or texture may provide a sensory effect to a user. In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may comprise a first surface region having a first surface roughness and a second surface region having a second surface roughness. The first surface region may have a higher surface roughness than a second surface roughness. The first surface region may be proximal to the mouth end of the mouthpiece. In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may comprise a first surface region having a first surface texture and a second surface region having a second, different, surface texture. In an embodiment of any of the above, the body may comprise a first surface region having a first friction coefficient and a second surface region having a second, different, friction coefficient. In an embodiment, the outer surface of the mouthpiece comprises an image.
According to a further aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating article system for use with an aerosol provision system comprising: a mouthpiece according to any of the embodiments described above; and an article comprising aerosol generating material configured to be at least partially received by the mouthpiece.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may be disposable.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may be disposable.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the mouthpiece may be one of a plurality of mouthpieces.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may be one of a plurality of articles.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the plurality of mouthpieces may be interchangeably usable with the plurality of articles.
According to a further aspect, there is provided a disposable mouthpiece for an article comprising aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol provision device or for the aerosol provision device, the disposable mouthpiece comprising: a body comprising an opening; wherein the opening defines a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article comprising aerosol generating material or at least a portion of the aerosol provision device; wherein the body of the disposable mouthpiece is configured to deform between a storage condition and a deformed condition.
According to a further aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: and a mouthpiece according to any of the embodiments above; and an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising aerosol generating material configured to be at least partially received in the mouthpiece.
According to a further aspect, there is provided a mouthpiece for an article comprising aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol provision device or for the aerosol provision device, the mouthpiece comprising: a body comprising an opening; wherein the opening defines a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article comprising aerosol generating material or at least a portion of the aerosol provision device; wherein the mouthpiece comprises at least one of aerosol generating material and an aerosol-modifying agent.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material may be supplementary aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material in the mouthpiece may generate an aerosol in response to an airflow or a heating effect on the mouthpiece. The heating effect may be provided by at least one of the airflow, the article and the aerosol provision device. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is impregnated into the body. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is a coating. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is on an inner side of the mouthpiece.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent may be a supplementary aerosol-modifying agent. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent in the mouthpiece may act in response to an airflow or a heating effect on the mouthpiece. The heating effect may be provided by at least one of the airflow, the article and the aerosol provision device. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent is impregnated into the body. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent is a coating. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent is on an inner side of the mouthpiece.
According to a further aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising aerosol generating material; a mouthpiece according to any of the embodiments above; and an article comprising aerosol generating material configured to be at least partially received in the mouthpiece.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may comprise a non-circular cross section.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the device may be reusable.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may be flat.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may comprise a planar surface.
In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may comprise opposing planar surfaces.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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

Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional front view of an aerosol provision system;
Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows a schematic end view of an article of the aerosol provision system of Figure 1;
Figure 4 shows a schematic top view of the article of Figure 3;
Figure 5a shows a schematic distal end view of a mouthpiece in a storage condition;
Figure 5b shows a schematic distal end view of the mouthpiece of Figure 5a in a deformed condition;
Figure 6a shows a schematic distal end view of another mouthpiece in a storage condition;
Figure 6b shows a schematic distal end view of the mouthpiece of Figure 6a in a deformed condition;
Figure 6c shows a schematic distal end view of the mouthpiece of Figure 6a in another deformed condition accommodating the article of Figure 3;
Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece of Figures 6a to 6c;
Figure 8 shows a schematic plan view of an aerosol generating article system; and
Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional plan view of the aerosol generating article system of Figure 8.

Detailed Description

As used herein, the term "delivery mechanism" is intended to encompass systems that deliver a substance to a user, and includes: non-combustible aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosolisable material without combusting the aerosolisable material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosolisable materials; and articles comprising aerosolisable material and configured to be used in one of these non-combustible aerosol provision systems.
According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.
In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.
Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device.
In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" (which is sometimes referred to herein as an aerosolisable material) is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or semisolid (such as a gel) which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants.
An aerosol-modifying agent is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol generation area, that is configured to modify the aerosol generated, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent
The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material.
In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is tobacco.
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa and hemp.
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from rooibos and fennel.
In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises a flavour.
In some embodiments, the flavour comprises menthol, spearmint and/or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits and/or redberry. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from cannabis.
In some embodiments, the flavour may comprise a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to eucolyptol, WS-3.
The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.
The aerosol-generating material may comprise a binder, such as a gelling agent, and an aerosol former. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and/or filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, is also present and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free from botanical material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco free.
The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be in the form of an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may comprise a binder, such as a gelling agent, and an aerosol former. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and/or filler may also be present. The aerosol-generating film may be substantially free from botanical material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco free.
The aerosol-generating film may have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness may be in the range of about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.
The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may comprise or be a continuous sheet of material.
The aerosol-generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol-generating film may comprise one or more discrete portions or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as dots, stripes or lines, which may be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.
In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of aerosol-generating films. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating film comprises a plurality of aerosol-generating film regions. Such plurality of aerosol-generating films and/or plurality of aerosol-generating film regions may have different properties, for example at least one of different compositions, thicknesses, density, active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.
The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol-former and one or more other components, such as one or more substances to be delivered, to form a slurry and then heating the slurry to volatilise at least some of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film.
The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt% or 90 wt% of the solvent.
The aerosol-generating material may be an "amorphous solid". In some embodiments, the amorphous solid is a "monolithic solid". The aerosol-generating material may be non-fibrous or fibrous. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be a dried gel. The aerosol-generating material may be a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments the retained fluid may be water (such as water absorbed from the surroundings of the aerosol-generating material) or the retained fluid may be solvent (such as when the aerosol-generating material is formed from a slurry). In some embodiments, the solvent may be water.
The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerine, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.
The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.
The material may be present on or in a support, to form a substrate. The support may, for example, be or comprise paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy.
An aerosol provision device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An "article" in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilise the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol provision device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales.
An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol.
A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may comprise a conductor which can be heated by the passage of an electrical current through the conductor.
Non-combustible aerosol provision systems may comprise a modular assembly including both a reusable aerosol provision device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may, for example, comprise an electric power source, such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations the aerosol generating article may comprise partially, or entirely, the aerosol generating component.
With reference to Figure 1, an aerosol provision system 10 is shown. The system 10 comprises an aerosol provision device 100 for generating aerosol from an aerosol generating material. The aerosol provision system 10 further comprises an article 200 comprising aerosol generating material. The article 200 may be replaceable. In broad outline, the aerosol provision device 100 may be used to heat the article 200 to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium, which is inhaled by a user of the device 100. The aerosol provision system 10 comprises a mouthpiece 300 as described in detail below. The article 200 is configured to be at least partially received by the mouthpiece 300.
The aerosol provision device 100 comprises a body 102. A housing arrangement surrounds and houses various components of the body 102. An article aperture 104 is formed at one end of the body 102, through which the article 200 may be inserted for heating by an aerosol generator.
The article 200 is inserted into a proximal end 106 of the device. The proximal end 106, also known as the mouth end, is the end closest to the mouth of user during normal use. The opposing end is known as a distal end 108. The use of 'proximal' and 'distal' throughout are relative to each other. An article proximal end 206 protrudes from the device 100. An article distal end 208 is received in the device 100.
The device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 150, such as a button or switch, which operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the switch 150.
The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis, which aligns with an axis of the article 200. The longitudinal axis extends in a proximal-distal direction. In use, the article 200 may be partially inserted into the device 100 where it may be heated by one or more components of the aerosol generator. Components of the aerosol generator may form part of the article 200. A mouthpiece distal end 308 receives the article mouth end 206 of the article 200. A mouthpiece mouth end 306 is free to be received in a user's mouth.
The device 100 includes an apparatus for heating aerosol generating material. The apparatus includes an aerosol generating assembly, a control unit 160, and a power source 170. The apparatus forms part of the body 102. The aerosol generating assembly is configured to heat the aerosol generating material of an article, such as article 200, inserted through the article aperture 104, such that an aerosol is generated from the aerosol generating material. The power source 170 supplies electrical power to the aerosol generating assembly, and the aerosol generating assembly converts the supplied electrical energy into heat energy for heating the aerosol generating material. The power source 170 may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, a lithium battery (such as a lithium-ion battery), a nickel battery (such as a nickel-cadmium battery), and an alkaline battery.
The power source 170 may be electrically coupled to the aerosol generating assembly to supply electrical power when required and under control of the control unit 160 to heat the aerosol generating material. The control unit 160 may be configured to activate and deactivate the aerosol generating assembly based on a user input. The user input may be via a button press or opening a door of the device 100 (for example, a door covering a article receiving receptacle). The control unit 160 may be configured to activate and deactivate automatically, for example on insertion of an article.
The aerosol generating assembly may comprise various components to heat the aerosol generating material via an inductive heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conducting heating element (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may comprise an inductive element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying electric current, such as an alternating electric current, through the inductive element. The varying electric current in the inductive element produces a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor (heating element) suitably positioned with respect to the inductive element, and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and hence the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Joule heating. In cases where the susceptor comprises ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e. by the varying orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the varying magnetic field. In inductive heating, as compared to heating by conduction for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating. Further, there need not be any physical contact between the inductive element and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced freedom in construction and application.
Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol provision device 100 comprises a heating zone 105. The aerosol provision device 100 comprises an article aperture 104 providing access to the heating zone 105. The article aperture 104 is at the proximal end 106 of the device. The article 200 may be inserted through the article aperture 104 to be retained within the heating zone 105. The article 200 is heated so that an inhalable medium is generated which may then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol provision device 100.
The aerosol provision device 100 comprises a first wall 130 and a second wall 140 opposing the first wall. The heating zone 105 is defined between the first wall 130 and the second wall 140. Further members may define the heating zone 105 in embodiments. In embodiments, the first wall 130 and/or the second wall 140 may be movable relative to the body 102.
The first wall 130 and the second wall 140 are elongate. The first wall 130 and the second wall 140 extend in an axial direction of the aerosol provision device 100. The first wall 130 and the second wall 140 have a constant profile along their axial extent. At least part of the profiles of the first wall 130 and the second wall 140 are configured to conform to an exterior profile of the article 200. This allows the article 200 to be inserted in the axial direction into the heating zone 105.
The first wall 130 is substantially parallel to the second wall 140. A distance between the first wall 130 and the second wall 140 defines a width of the heating zone 105. The width of the heating zone 105 is substantially constant along a length or axial extent of the heating zone 105.
The aerosol provision device 100 comprises an end wall 150 at a distal end of the heating zone 105. When the article 200 is fully inserted into the heating zone 105, the distal end 208 of the article 200 abuts the end wall 150.
The article 200 comprises a heating element 112. In some embodiments, the heating element is comprised in the aerosol provision device 100. In some embodiments, the article 200 is free from a heating element. The aerosol provision system 10 comprises an induction-type heating system. The induction-type heating system includes a magnetic field generator 119 and the heating element 112. The magnetic field generator 119 comprises an inductor coil assembly. The inductor coil assembly forms a portion of the magnetic field generator. The inductor coil assembly is comprised in the aerosol provision device 100. The inductor coil assembly is disposed adjacent to the heating zone 105. In embodiments, the inductor coil assembly surrounds the heating zone 105.
The inductor coil assembly comprises an inductor coil 121. In embodiments, the number of inductor coils differs. In embodiments, two or more inductor coils are used. In embodiments, the inductor coil assembly comprises an array of inductor coils. In embodiments, the array of inductor coils is aligned along an axis. The axis in embodiments is the longitudinal axis. In embodiments, the inductor coil assembly also comprises a coil support. The coil support may be omitted.
The inductor coil 121 is a two-dimensional coil. The inductor coil 121 is planar. In embodiments, the inductor coil 121 is a three-dimensional coil, such as a helical coil, for example a circular helix. The inductor coil 121 is flexible. The inductor coil 121 is able to flex without breaking. In embodiments, the inductor coil 121 is rigid. The inductor coil 121 defines a spiral. The inductor coil 121 defines a two-dimensional spiral. In embodiments, the coil is a helical coil.
The inductor coil 121 has a maximum width greater than a maximum height of the inductor coil 121. In embodiments, the inductor coil 121 comprises a flat spiral coil.
The inductor coil 121 is configured to heat the heating element 112 through induction heating as described above. The inductor coil 121 or coils may comprise litz wire.
The aerosol provision system 10 may include other types of heating systems in addition or in alternative to the induction heating system. In embodiments, the aerosol provision system 10 comprises a resistive heating-type heating system. In embodiments, the article 200 comprises a resistive heating element. The aerosol provision device 100 may comprise electrical contacts for electrical connection with the resistive heating element for electrically activating the resistive heating element by passing a flow of electrical energy through the resistive heating element. The electrical contacts may be disposed in the heating zone 105. The electrical contacts may be provided on or form part of the first wall 130 and/or the second wall 140. The electrical contacts may be flexible. The electrical contacts may be resilient.
In embodiments, the aerosol provision device 100 comprises a resistive heating element, acting as a heating element. Other types of heating element are envisaged. In embodiments, the number of heating elements may differ. In embodiments, the aerosol provision device 100 comprises two or more heating elements. The heating element may be two-dimensional. The heating element may be planar. The heating element may be flexible. The heating element may be resilient. The heating element may be able to flex without breaking. The heating element may be a resistive heating track. The track may follow a tortuous path.
As seen in Figure 1, the aerosol provision device 100 comprises an electrical component connector 162, which can receive a cable to charge the device 100. For example, the connector 162 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In embodiments, the connector 162 may be used additionally or alternatively to transfer data between the device 100 and another device, such as a computing device.
The device 100 comprises the control unit 160. The control unit 160 may be an electronics module 160. The electronics module 160 may comprise, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB may also comprise one or more electrical tracks to electrically connect together various electronic components of the device 100. For example, the battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB (not shown) so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100.
Referring once again to Figure 2, the aerosol provision device 100 comprises an air passage 180. The air passage 180 extends from an air inlet 185 to the heating zone 105. The air passage 180 extends through the body 102. The air passage 180 is arranged to direct air flow from an exterior of the aerosol provision device 100 to the heating zone 105, where the air flow may enter the article 200 and entrain the generated aerosol for inhalation by a user. The air inlet 185 is in the distal end 108 of the body 102. The air passage 180 is defined by a flow path member 182. The flow path member 182 extends between the heating zone 105 and the air inlet 185. The flow path member 182 may be tubular. The flow path member 182 defines a bore. The flow path member 182 extends in an axial direction along its length. In embodiments, the flow path member 182 follows a tortuous path. Other airflow arrangements are envisaged. For example, airflow may be provided between a device receptacle, defining the heating zone 105, and the article 200.
The aerosol provision device 100 is reusable. A plurality of articles, such as article 200, can be used with the aerosol provision device 100.
The article 200 is shown in Figures 3 and 4. The article 200 is configured to be received in an aerosol provision device, such as aerosol provision device 100.
The article 200 comprises a cross-section. The cross-section of the article 200 is a non-circular cross-section. In embodiments, the article 200 is flat. In embodiments, the article 200 is a flat strip. In embodiments, the article 200 is planar. In embodiments, the article 200 comprises at least one planar surface. In embodiments, the article 200 comprises opposing planar surfaces.
As used herein, the term "planar" refers to a component which has a depth significantly smaller than its length and width. The exterior of the article 200 has a length L, a width W and a depth D. The width W is perpendicular to the length L and the depth D is perpendicular to each of the length L and the width W. In this embodiment, the length L is greater than the width W, and the width W is greater than the depth D. The depth D is less than 30%, less than 20% or less than 10% of the width W. The depth D is less than 30%, less than 20% or less than 10% of the length L.
In this embodiment, the exterior of the article 200 is a rectangular cuboid, so that the article 200 is elongate with a substantially rectangular cross-section. However, in other embodiments, the length L may be equal or substantially equal to the width W, so that the article 200 is not elongate as such. In some such embodiments, the exterior of the article 200 may be a square cuboid. In some embodiments, the exterior of the article 200 may be other than cuboid. For example, in some embodiments, some or all of the edges of the exterior of the article 200 may be bevelled or rounded. In some embodiments, the article 200 may have other than a substantially rectangular cross-section, such as an elliptical, but not circular, cross-section.
The article 200 may be formed of one or more layers. In embodiments, each layer may be any of planar, corrugated, tubular etc. The sheet comprises a plurality of layers. The plurality of layers are formed as a laminate.
The article 200 may also comprise other components such as at least one of a filter, wrapping materials and a cooling structure.
Figures 5a and 5b show a mouthpiece 300 for use with an article comprising aerosol generating material, such as article 200. The mouthpiece 300 comprises a body 302. The mouthpiece extends between the mouth end 306, and the distal end 308. The body 302 defines a slot 304. The body 302 comprises the slot 304. In Figure 5a the mouthpiece 300 is in a storage condition, and in Figure 5b the mouthpiece is in a deformed condition.
A slot is defined by an elongate opening with a width substantially greater than a width. The slot defines an opening. A slot may have a rectangular configuration, or another shaped configuration.
The body 302 comprises a first panel 310 and a second panel 312. The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are mounted to one another. The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 each comprise a first edge 310a, 312a and a second edge 310b,312b opposite the first side.
The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are mounted to one another along a mouth end 300a, along the respective first edges 310a, 312a, and along the respective second edges 310b, 312b. Mounting regions 313 are provided along which the panels 310, 312 are mounted to each other. The panels 310, 312 may be bonded to each other along the mounting regions 313. The sections of the panels 310, 312 that define the slot are free from being mounted to each other. Mounting of the panels may be achieved by bonding, for example by use of an adhesive.
The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 extend between the mouth end 300a and the distal end 300b of the mouthpiece 300. The first edges 310a, 312a and the second edges 310b, 312b are disposed between the mouth end 300a and the distal end 300b of the mouthpiece 300. The first edge 310a of the first panel 310 and the first edge 312a of the second panel 312 are mounted to one another, and the second edge 310b of the first panel 310 and the second edge 312b of the second panel 312 are mounted to one another. The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are substantially planar. The slot 304 is defined between distal ends of the mounted portions 313.
The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are shaped identically. The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are symmetrical about a horizontal plane defined therebetween. In embodiments, the shape of the first panel 310 is different to the shape of the second panel 312 and the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are not symmetrical about the horizontal plane defined therebetween.
The slot 304 is formed along at least part of an edge 302a of the body 302. In embodiments, the edge 302a is at the distal end 308 of the mouthpiece 300. The slot 304 is in the distal end 308 of the mouthpiece 300. The slot 304 is defined between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. In embodiments, the slot 304 is defined by one of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312.
The slot 304 defines a receptacle 318 between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. The receptacle 318 is configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, such as article 200. The receptacle 318 extends towards the proximal end. A flow path is defined through the mouthpiece between the receptacle 318 and the mouth end 306 of the mouthpiece 300. The flow path is defined in part by a flow outlet. The flow outlet may be defined in part by an intermediate member, for example an intermediate panel or a tubular member.
The slot 304 comprises a slot opening 322 disposed on the edge 302a of the body 302. The slot opening 322 defines a receiving area. The receiving area defines the cross sectional area of the entry to the receptacle 318. At least a part of an article, such as article 200, can be inserted into the slot 304 through the slot opening 308. At least a part of an article, such as article 200, can be inserted into the receptacle 318 through the receiving area. To be at least partly received in the receptacle 318, a proximal end of an article, such as article 200, is inserted through the slot opening 308.
As seen in Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c, in embodiments the mouthpiece 300 comprises an intermediate layer 320, acting as an intermediate member, disposed between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. The intermediate layer 320 spaces the first panel 310 from the second panel 312. The intermediate layer 320 defines at least part of the slot 304. In embodiments, the intermediate layer 320 defines the entire slot 304. In other embodiments, the intermediate layer 320 defines only a part of the slot 3046. The intermediate layer 320 helps provides a close fit with at least part of an article, such as article 200, when the article is inserted into the slot 304.
The intermediate layer 320 forms an intermediate panel between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are mounted on the intermediate panel. The intermediate layer 320 separates the first panel 310 from the second panel 312. In other embodiments, the intermediate layer 320 only partially separates the first panel 310 from the second panel 312.
The body 302 is configured to deform between a storage condition and a deformed condition. The body 302 is biased into the storage condition. The planar tendencies of the panels bias the body 302. The deformation between the storage condition and the deformed condition is elastic. This is understood to mean that the body 302 is configured to deform from the storage condition to the deformed condition when subjected to an external force, and the body 302 will generally return to the storage condition provided the external force is removed and no other forces are applied.
The body 302 is seen in the storage condition in Figures 5a and 6a. The body 302 is seen in deformed conditions in Figures 5b, 6b, and 6c. In Figures 5b and 6b the body 302 is exposed to external forces, for example along opposing side edges of the body 302 to distend the body 302. In Figure 6c the external force is released to allow the body 302 to clamp the article 200.
In the storage condition, the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. In embodiments, in the storage condition the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 contact one another. In the storage condition the slot 304 is a slit. A slit is a long, narrow cut or opening, or a two-dimensional opening in which the height of the opening is small in comparison to the width (for example the height of the opening is less than 5% as large as the width of the opening).
In the storage condition, the mouthpiece 300 is substantially planar. In the storage condition, the mouthpiece 300 is configured such that it can be packaged with other mouthpieces 300 in a space efficient way. In the storage condition, the body 302 is unable to accommodate an article, such as article 200.
The body 302 is configured to deform from the storage condition into the deformed condition in response to a compressive force being applied at the body 302. More specifically, the body 302 is configured such that when a compressive force is applied between the first edges 310a, 312a of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312, and the second edges 310b, 312b of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312, the body 302 is configured to deform from the storage condition into the deformed condition. In embodiments, the body 302 is configured to deform from the storage condition into the deformed condition in response to the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 being distended away from one another, and/or in response to a resilient object being pushed into the slot 304.
In the deformed condition in which the external force is applied, an article, such as the article 200, is insertable into the mouthpiece. When the external force is relaxed or removed, the mouthpiece 300 is clamp at least part of the article 200. In other words, in the deformed condition, the mouthpiece 300 is configured to be attached to at least part of an article, such as article 200. In the deformed condition, the body 302 is configured to accommodate at least a portion of an article, such as article 200.
When the body 302 is in the deformed condition, a distance between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 in the slot 304 is greater than when the body 302 is in the storage condition. In the deformed condition, the receiving area defined by the slot opening 322 is greater than the receiving area of the slot opening 322 in the storage condition. In other words, the area of the receiving area increases as the body 302 is deformed from the storage condition to the deformed condition.
In the deformed condition, a volume of the slot 304 is greater when the body 302 than when the body 302 is in the storage condition. In other words, the volume of the slot 304 increases as the body 302 deforms into the deformed condition from the storage condition. A volume of the receptacle 318 is greater when the body 302 is in the deformed condition compared to when the body 302 is in the storage condition.
In embodiments, the area of the receiving area is substantially the same when the body 302 is in the deformed condition and in the storage condition. In such embodiments, a shape of the receiving area is different when the body 302 is in the deformed condition to when the body 302 is in the storage condition. Similarly, the volume of the receptacle 318 is substantially the same when the body 302 is in the deformed condition and in the storage condition. A shape of the receptacle is different when the body 302 is in the deformed condition to when the body 302 is in the storage condition.
The slot 304 is configured to receive an article comprising a non-circular cross section, such as article 200. When the body 302 is in the deformed condition, the volume of the slot 304 and the area of the receiving area are sufficiently large to receive an article, such as article 200.
When the body 302 is in the deformed condition, at least part of an article, for example a proximal end of article 200, may be inserted into the slot 304 through the slot opening 320. In other words, when the body 302 is in the deformed condition, the slot 304 is configured to be received over an end of an article, such as the proximal end of article 200.
The body 302 is biased to grip at least a portion of an article, such as article 200, when the article is received in the slot 304. When the compressive force is removed from the body 302, the body 302 is biased to return to the storage condition. When at least a portion of an article, such as article 200, is inserted into the slot 304 when the body 302 is in the deformed condition, and the compressive force is subsequently removed, the body 302 grips the article 200 by being biased to return to the storage condition.
The slot 304 is configured to conform with a cross-sectional shape of at least part of an article inserted into the slot 304. A shape of the slot 304 is configured to conform with the cross-sectional shape of at least part of an article inserted into the slot 304, such as article 200. The first panel 310 is configured to come into form-fitting contact with at least part of an article, such as article 200, when the article 304 is inserted into the slot 304. The second panel 312 is configured to come into form-fitting contact with at least part of an article, such as article 200, when the article 304 is inserted into the slot 304.
When at least a portion of an article, such as article 200, is inserted into the slot 304, the mouthpiece 300 sandwiches the article. In other words, a portion of the article is sandwiched between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 exert a force on the article that retains the article in the slot 304.
When an article, such as article 200, is inserted into the slot 304, the body 302 is held in the deformed condition. When an article, such as article 200, is inserted into the slot 304, the body 302 is configured to retain the article in the slot 304.
The presence of an intermediate layer 320 increases the volume of the slot 304 and the area of the receiving area in comparison to embodiments in which no intermediate layer 320 is present. In embodiments in which the mouthpiece 300 comprises an intermediate layer 320, the mouthpiece 300 is configured to receive larger articles.
Figure 7 shows a cross sectional view of mouthpiece 300. The mouthpiece 300 comprises a flow path 350 that extends from the slot opening 308 to a mouth end edge 302b of the body 302. The mouth end edge 302b is defined at the mouth end 306 of the mouthpiece 300. At the mouth end 306, the mouthpiece comprises a flow outlet 352. The flow outlet 352 defines an opening to a flow passage 354. The flow passage 354 extends between the slot 304 and the flow outlet 352. The flow passage 354 is defined between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. In embodiments, the flow passage 354 is defined at least partly by the intermediate layer 320. The flow path 350 extends between the slot opening 308 and the flow outlet 352 through the flow passage 354.
Fluids, gases and vapours are permitted to travel from the distal end 300b to the mouth end 306 of the mouthpiece 300 via the flow path 350. Thus, aerosol emitted by an article, such as the article 200, can be inhaled by a user through the mouth end 306 of the mouthpiece 300.
Fluids, gases and vapours are only permitted to travel through the mouthpiece 300 when the body 302 is in the deformed condition. In the storage condition, the flow passage 354 is closed such that no fluids, gases or vapours can travel via the flow path 350 through the flow passage. In the storage condition, the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are adjacent one another such that the flow passage 354 does not permit fluids, gases or vapours to flow therethrough.
When the body 302 is in the deformed condition, the distance between the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 has increased such that a volume of the flow passage 354 is increased in comparison to that in the storage condition, such that fluids, gases and vapours are permitted to travel therethrough. When an article 200 is received in the slot 304 and the body 302 is thereby held in the deformed condition, the volume of the flow passage 354 is increased such that fluids, gases and vapours are permitted to travel therethrough.
In embodiments, the mouthpiece 300 comprises flow restrictors disposed along the flow path 350 that prevent fluids from flowing from the mouth end 300a to the distal end 300b of the mouthpiece 300. Fluids, gases and vapours are only permitted to travel from the distal end 300b to the mouth end 300a of the mouthpiece 300.
The mouthpiece 300 is configured to capture condensation released from an article, such as the article 200. Thus, the amount of liquid in the aerosol produced by an article, such as article 200, may be reduced before the aerosol is inhaled by a user. In embodiments, the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are made from absorbent material. Absorbent material is understood to be material that readily absorbs liquids. In embodiments, the intermediate layer 320 is also made of absorbent material. In embodiments, only the intermediate layer 320 may be made of absorbent material. In embodiments, at least one of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 and the intermediate layer 320 are configured to capture condensation by absorbing liquid released from an article, such as the article 200.
The first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are made of a paper-based material. In embodiments, one of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 is made of a paper-based material. In embodiments, neither of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are made of a paper-based material. In embodiments, the intermediate layer 320 is made of the paper-based material. In embodiments, the paper-based material may be a card. This provides environmental benefits of a simple paper-based mouthpiece that is easily recycled.
The mouthpiece 300 is water resistant such that it cannot damaged by saliva from a user and is resilient to outdoor use. The mouthpiece 300 comprises a hydrophobic coating. In embodiments, the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 are coated in a hydrophobic coating. In other embodiments, the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 comprise a water resistant or waterproof material such as rubber and plastic.
As seen in Figure 7, the slot 304 comprises a seal 330 configured to form a seal between an article, such as article 200, that is inserted into the slot 304 and the slot 304. The seal may be omitted. The seal 330 may comprise a textured section on the first panel 310 and on the second panel 312. The textured section of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 may comprise a different texture to the remainder of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. In embodiments, the textured section of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 is comprised on sealing elements disposed on the first panel 310 and the second panel 312. The sealing elements may be formed of any suitable material, for example rubber. In embodiments, the intermediate layer 320 comprises the textured section.
The mouthpiece 300 is configured to form an interference fit with an article, such as article 200. To strengthen the interference fit, the textured section of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312 may have a higher coefficient of friction than the rest of the first panel 310 and the second panel 312.
The seal 330 in embodiments is configured to prevent any substance from travelling between an article, such as article 200, and the first panel 310 and/or the second panel 312 when said article is received in the slot 304. In embodiments, the seal 330 may form a hermetic seal with the article 200.
The mouthpiece 300 can be removed from at least part of an article, such as article 200, by applying a compressive force in a similar way to as described above and removing the article from the slot 304. Thus, the mouthpiece 300 can easily be attached to and removed from at least a part of an article, such as article 200, as described above.
The mouthpiece 300 is configured to be used with a plurality of articles, such as article 200. The mouthpiece 300 may be attached to an article, such as article 200, as described above, and subsequently removed from the article, for example if the aerosol generating material in the article is depleted. The mouthpiece 300 can then be used with another article, similar to article 200, in a similar way. In embodiments, the mouthpiece 300 is configured to be used with at least 5 different articles. In embodiments, the mouthpiece 300 is configured to be used with at least 10 different articles.
The mouthpiece 300 is disposable. Once a user has used the mouthpiece 300 with a number of articles, such as article 200, the mouthpiece 300 can be disposed of. The number of articles is based upon the personal preference of the user. The mouthpiece 300 is interchangeable with another mouthpiece 300 on the article 200. This helps to provide hygiene benefits of a disposable mouthpiece.
In some embodiments, a first mouthpiece may comprise a flow passage of a first cross-sectional area and a second mouthpiece may comprise a flow passage of a second cross-sectional area. Both of the first mouthpiece and the second mouthpiece comprise the features of the mouthpiece 300 described above. The first mouthpiece and the second mouthpiece may be interchangeably attached to a single article, for example article 200, by a user such that the user can select the amount of aerosol delivered to the user from the article.
The aerosol generating system 10 system is shown in Figures 8 and 9. The aerosol generating system 10 comprises the mouthpiece 300 as described above and the article 200 as described above. At least part of the article 200 is received in a slot 304 of the mouthpiece 300. The mouthpiece 300 comprises the body 302 which grips the article 200. The body 302 comprises the first panel 310 and the second panel 312, each of which contact the article 200.
Using a disposable mouthpiece such as described herein could help to minimise heating of a user's lips during use, typically during the first couple of puffs of an article.
In embodiments a surface pattern or texture is provided on an external side of the body 302. One or both of the first and second panels may comprise a surface pattern or texture. The surface pattern or texture in embodiments differs between different mouthpieces. The surface pattern or texture may provide an indication to the user of the type of mouthpiece. The surface pattern or texture in embodiments is proximal to the mouth end of the mouthpiece. The surface pattern or texture in such an arrangement may be detectable by a user's lips. The surface pattern or texture may provide a sensory effect to a user.
In embodiments, the body comprises a first surface region having a first surface roughness and a second surface region having a second surface roughness. The first surface region may have a higher surface roughness than a second surface roughness. The first surface region may be proximal to the mouth end of the mouthpiece. The body may comprise a first surface region having a first surface texture and a second surface region having a second, different, surface texture. The body may comprise a first surface region having a first friction coefficient and a second surface region having a second, different, friction coefficient. In an embodiment, the outer surface of the mouthpiece comprises an image.
In embodiments, the mouthpiece comprises at least one of aerosol generating material and an aerosol-modifying agent. The at least one of aerosol generating material and an aerosol-modifying agent is on the body 302. The aerosol generating material may be supplementary aerosol generating material to the article aerosol generating material. The aerosol-modifying agent may be supplementary aerosol-modifying agent to an article aerosol-modifying agent. The aerosol generating material in the mouthpiece may generate an aerosol in response to an airflow or a heating effect on the mouthpiece. The heating effect may be provided by at least one of the airflow, the article and the aerosol provision device. The aerosol generating material is impregnated into the body. Other configurations are anticipated, for example in embodiments the aerosol generating material is a coating. The coating is on an inner side of the mouthpiece.
The aerosol-modifying agent may act in response to an airflow or a heating effect on the mouthpiece. The heating effect may be provided by at least one of the airflow, the article and the aerosol provision device. The aerosol-modifying agent is impregnated into the body. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol-modifying agent is a coating. Other configurations are anticipated, for example in embodiments the aerosol-modifying agent is a coating. The coating is on an inner side of the mouthpiece.
In the above described embodiments, the disposable mouthpiece is described with reference to receiving a portion of the article of the aerosol provision system. In embodiments it will be appreciated that the disposable mouthpieces as described above in any of the above embodiments may be configured to be received over a portion of the aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system, for example a protruding outlet.
The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc, other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

A mouthpiece for an article comprising aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol provision device, the mouthpiece comprising:
a body comprising a slot;

wherein the slot defines a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article comprising aerosol generating material.
The mouthpiece of claim 1, wherein the body is configured to deform between a storage condition and a deformed condition.
The mouthpiece of claim 2, comprising a slot opening, wherein a receiving area of the slot opening in the deformed condition is greater than the receiving area of the slot opening in the storage condition.
The mouthpiece of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the body comprises a first panel and a second panel and the slot is defined between the first panel and the second panel.
The mouthpiece of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first panel and the second panel comprises a paper-based material.
The mouthpiece of claim 4 or 5, wherein the first panel contacts the second panel in the storage condition.
The mouthpiece of any of claims 4 to 6, wherein the mouthpiece comprises an intermediate layer between the first panel and the second panel.
The mouthpiece of any of claims 2 to 7, wherein the body is biased towards the storage condition.
The mouthpiece of any of claims 2 to 8, wherein the mouthpiece is generally planar in the storage condition.
The mouthpiece of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the slot is formed along at least part of an edge of the body.
The mouthpiece of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the body is biased to grip at least a portion of the article when the article is received in the slot.
The mouthpiece of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the mouthpiece is disposable.
An aerosol generating article system for use with an aerosol provision system comprising:
a mouthpiece according to any of claims 1 to 12; and

an article comprising aerosol generating material configured to be at least partially received by the mouthpiece.
A disposable mouthpiece for an article comprising aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol provision device or for the aerosol provision device, the disposable mouthpiece comprising:
a body comprising an opening;

wherein the opening defines a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the article comprising aerosol generating material or at least a portion of the aerosol provision device;

wherein the body of the disposable mouthpiece is configured to deform between a storage condition and a deformed condition.
An aerosol provision system comprising:
an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising aerosol generating material;

a mouthpiece according to any of claims 1 to 12 or 14; and

an article comprising aerosol generating material configured to be at least partially received by the mouthpiece.