EP4631373A1

EP4631373A1 - Article

Info

Publication number: EP4631373A1
Application number: EP24169766.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Howard ROTHWELL; David Bishop; Juan Esteban Paz JAUREGUI; Christopher Daniels; Nishath Mohammed NAWAZ; Keiann WILLIAMS; Richard HAINES; Ugurhan Yilmaz; Joel David BRISCOE
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2024-04-11
Filing date: 2024-04-11
Publication date: 2025-10-15

Abstract

An article (100) for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system. The article (100) includes: a sealed container (101) comprising a first releasable barrier (102) and a reservoir (103) for aerosolisable material. The article (100) includes an aerosol generating component (104) for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material. The first releasable barrier (102) is moveable between a closed state and an open state. In the closed state the first releasable barrier (102) prevents fluid communication between the reservoir (103) and the aerosol generating component (104). In the open state fluid can flow between the reservoir (103) and the aerosol generating component (103) by way of the first releasable barrier (102).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to articles and devices for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system. The present invention further relates to non-combustible aerosol provision systems comprising the articles and the devices.

BACKGROUND

Non-combustible aerosol provision systems that generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user are known in the art. Such systems typically comprise an aerosol generating component which is capable of converting an aerosolisable material into an aerosol. In some instances, the aerosol generated is a condensation aerosol whereby an aerosolisable material is first vaporised and then allowed to condense into an aerosol. In other instances, the aerosol generated is an aerosol which results from the atomisation of the aerosolisable material. Such atomisation may be induced mechanically, e.g. by subjecting the aerosolisable material to vibrations so as to form small particles of material that are entrained in airflow. Alternatively, such atomisation may be induced electrostatically, or in other ways, such as by using pressure.
Since such aerosol provision systems are intended to generate an aerosol which is to be inhaled by a user, consideration should be given to the characteristics of the aerosol produced. These characteristics can include the size of the particles of the aerosol, the total amount of the aerosol produced, etc.
Where the aerosol provision system is used to simulate a smoking experience, e.g. as an e-cigarette or similar product, control of these various characteristics is especially important since the user may expect a specific sensorial experience to result from the use of the system.
It would be desirable to provide non-combustible aerosol provision systems which have improved control of these characteristics.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a sealed container comprising a first releasable barrier and a reservoir for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material, wherein the first releasable barrier is moveable between a closed state and an open state, wherein:

in the closed state the first releasable barrier prevents fluid communication between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component, and
in the open state fluid can flow between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component by way of the first releasable barrier.

In some embodiments, the first releasable barrier automatically tends to the closed state. In some embodiments, the first releasable barrier is resiliently deformable from the closed state to the open state.
In some embodiments, the first releasable barrier comprises a first portion, a second portion, and an openable passage between the first portion and the second portion, wherein:

in the closed state the openable passage is closed, and
in the open state the openable passage open.

In some embodiments, the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
In some embodiments, the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a capillary structure.
In some embodiments, the aerosolisable material transfer component is compressible.
In some embodiments, the aerosolisable material transfer component extends through the openable passage. In some embodiments, in the closed state the first releasable barrier compresses a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component such that aerosolisable material cannot flow between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component through the compressed portion
In some embodiments, the sealed container comprises an aerosol generation chamber, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
In some embodiments, the sealed container comprises an air passageway extending from at least one air inlet opening to at least one air outlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air inlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air outlet opening, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the air passageway.
In some embodiments, the reservoir is flexible.
According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a device for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device comprising: a housing for receiving the article according to the first aspect of the present disclosure; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier, wherein the device is configured to move the first releasable barrier between the closed state and the open state.
In some embodiments, the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein when the article is received by the housing, movement from the open position to the closed position causes movement of the first releasable barrier from the closed state to the open state.
In some embodiments, the device comprises a locating structure for locating the first releasable barrier, wherein the locating structure retains the first portion of the first releasable barrier, wherein the locating structure permits movement of the second portion of the first releasable barrier relative to the first portion of the first releasable barrier.
In some embodiments, movement from the open position to the closed position causes the device to apply a pressure on the reservoir.
According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article according to the first aspect of the present disclosure; the device according to the second aspect of the present disclosure; and one or more of a power source and a controller.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

Fig. 1A shows a first (bottom face) view of article according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
Fig. 1B shows a second (top face) view of the article of Fig. 1;
Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of the article of Fig. 1, in perspective view;
Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of the article of Fig. 1, in exploded view;
Fig. 4A shows a first (front) view of a device for use with the article of Fig. 1, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, and the article of Fig. 1;
Fig. 4B shows a second (rear) view of the device of Fig. 4A;
Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration (bottom face view) of an article according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
Fig. 6 is a schematic illustration of a device for use with the article of Fig. 1, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
Fig. 7A is a schematic illustration of an article according to an aspect of the present disclosure, in plan view;
Fig. 7B is a schematic illustration of the article of Fig. 5A, in side view;
Fig. 7C is a schematic illustration of the article of Fig. 5A, further comprising an electrical link, in plan view;
Fig. 8 is a schematic illustration of a device for use with the article of Fig. 7A, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
Fig. 9 is a schematic illustration of a device for use with the article of Fig. 7C, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
Fig. 10A is a schematic illustration of an article according to an aspect of the present disclosure, in which the article is arranged in a first position;
Fig. 10B is a schematic illustration of the article of Fig. 10A, in which the article is arranged in a second position;
Fig. 11A is a schematic illustration of an article according to an aspect of the present disclosure, in which the article is arranged in a first position;
Fig. 11B is a schematic illustration of the article of Fig. 11A, in which the article is arranged in a second position;
Fig. 12A is a schematic illustration of a non-combustible aerosol provision system according to an aspect of the present disclosure, in a primary state;
Fig. 12B is a schematic illustration of the non-combustible aerosol provision system if Fig. 12A, in a secondary state;
Fig. 12C is a schematic illustration of the non-combustible aerosol provision system if Fig. 12A, in a tertiary state;
Fig. 13A is a schematic illustration of a container according to an aspect of the present disclosure, in cross-sectional view, wherein the first releasable barrier is provided in a closed state;
Fig. 13B is an alternative schematic illustration of the container of Fig. 13A, in cross-sectional view, wherein the first releasable barrier is provided in an open state; and
Fig. 13C is a schematic illustration of an article comprising the container of Fig. 13A according to an aspect of the present disclosure, in plan view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are discussed/described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be implemented conventionally and these are not discussed/described in detail in the interests of brevity. It will thus be appreciated that aspects and features of articles and systems discussed herein which are not described in detail may be implemented in accordance with any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.
As described above, the present disclosure relates, but is not limited, to non-combustible aerosol provision systems, devices and articles that generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material (also referred to herein as "aerosolisable material").
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 non-combustible aerosol provision system is 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 present 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/or a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator (also referred to herein as an aerosol generating component), 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 (which may be referred to herein as a reservoir for aerosolisable material), an aerosol-generating material transfer component (also referred to herein as an aerosolisable material transfer component), an aerosol generator (also referred to herein as an aerosol generating component), an aerosol generation area (also referred to herein as an aerosol generation chamber), a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
Throughout the following description, the terms "e-cigarette" and "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used. However, it will be appreciated these terms may be used interchangeably with non-combustible aerosol (vapour) provision system or device as explained above.
The systems described herein typically generate an inhalable aerosol by vaporisation of an aerosol-generating material.
In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and/or one or more other functional materials.
The active substance as used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may for example be selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may comprise for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.As noted herein, the active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.
As noted herein, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "botanical" includes any material derived from plants including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fibres, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husk, shells or the like. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally existing in a botanical, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, shreds, strips, sheets, or the like. Example botanicals are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice (liquorice), matcha, mate, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (anise), basil, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof. The mint may be chosen from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arventis, Mentha c.v.,Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata c.v.,Mentha piperita c.v, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Memtha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata c.v. and Mentha suaveolens
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.
As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. They may include naturally occurring flavour materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, liquid such as an oil, solid such as a powder, or gas.
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.
Aerosol-generating material (or 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 liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants.
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-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 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.
As used herein, the term "consumable" (or article) refers to an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may, for example, comprise combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor. The consumable may be suitable for holding (or containing) the aerosol-generating material. In this way, the consumable may, but need not necessarily, hold (or contain) the aerosol-generating material.
As used herein, the term "susceptor" refers to a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.
As used herein, the term "component" is used to refer to a part, section, unit, module, assembly or similar of an electronic cigarette or similar device that incorporates several smaller parts or elements, possibly within an exterior housing or wall. An electronic cigarette may be formed or built from one or more such components, and the components may be removably or separably connectable to one another, or may be permanently joined together during manufacture to define the whole electronic cigarette. The present disclosure is applicable to (but not limited to) systems comprising two components separably connectable to one another and configured, for example, as a consumable/article component capable of holding an aerosol generating material (also referred to herein as a cartridge or cartomiser), and a device/control unit having a battery for providing electrical power to operate an element for generating vapour from the aerosol generating material.
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.
An aerosol generator (or aerosol generating component) is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.
In an example, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may be an e-cigarette. The e-cigarette may have a generally cylindrical shape, extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by a dashed line, and may comprise two main components, namely a control or power component or section (which may be referred to herein as a device) and a cartridge assembly or section (which may be referred to herein as an "article", "consumable", "cartomizer", or "cartridge") that operates as a vapour generating component.
The cartridge assembly (or article) may include a storage compartment (also referred to herein as a reservoir) containing an aerosolisable material comprising (for example) a liquid formulation from which an aerosol is to be generated, for example containing nicotine. As an example, the aerosolisable material may comprise around 1 to 3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, with the remainder comprising roughly propylene glycol, and possibly also comprising other components, such as water or flavourings. The storage compartment may have the form of a storage tank, being a container or receptacle in which aerosolisable material can be stored such that the aerosolisable material is free to move and flow (if liquid) within the confines of the tank. Alternatively, the storage compartment may contain a quantity of absorbent material such as cotton wadding or glass fibre which holds the aerosolisable material within a porous structure. The storage compartment may be sealed after filling during manufacture so as to be disposable after the aerosolisable material is consumed, or may have an inlet port or other opening through which new aerosolisable material can be added. The cartridge assembly may also comprise an electrical aerosol generating component located externally of the reservoir tank for generating the aerosol by vaporisation of the aerosolisable material.
In many examples, the aerosol generating component may be a heating element (heater) which is heated by the passage of electrical current (e.g. via resistive) to raise the temperature of the aerosolisable material until it evaporates. An aerosolisable material transfer component, e.g. liquid conduit arrangement such as a wick or other porous element (not shown), may be provided to deliver aerosolisable material from the storage compartment to the aerosol generating component. The aerosolisable material transfer component may have one or more parts located inside the storage compartment so as to be able to absorb aerosolisable material and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other parts of the aerosolisable material transfer component that are in contact with the aerosol generating component. This aerosolisable material is thereby vaporised, and is to be replaced by new aerosolisable material transferred to the aerosol generating component by the aerosolisable material transfer component.
A heater and wick combination, or other arrangement of parts that perform the same functions, is sometimes referred to as an atomiser or atomiser assembly. Various designs are possible. For example, the wick may be an entirely separate element from the aerosol generating component.
In some cases, the aerosolisable material transfer component (e.g. the conduit) for delivering liquid for vapour generation may be formed at least in part from one or more slots, tubes or channels between the storage compartment and the aerosol generating component which are narrow enough to support capillary action to draw source liquid out of the storage compartment and deliver it for vaporisation. In general, an atomiser can be considered to be an aerosol generating component able to generate vapour from aerosolisable material delivered to it, and an aerosolisable material transfer component (e.g. a liquid conduit (pathway)) able to deliver or transport liquid from a storage compartment or similar liquid store to the aerosol generating component by a capillary force.
Typically, the aerosol generating component is at least partly located within an aerosol generating chamber that forms part of an airflow channel through the electronic cigarette/system. Vapour produced by the aerosol generating component is driven off into this chamber, and as air passes through the chamber, flowing over and around the aerosol generating component, it collects the produced vapour whereby it condenses to form the aerosol.
The cartridge assembly may also include a mouthpiece having an opening or air outlet through which a user may inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component, and delivered through the airflow channel.
The power component (or device) may include a cell (e.g. a battery), which may be rechargeable, to provide power for electrical components of the e-cigarette, in particular the aerosol generating component. Additionally, there may be a printed circuit board and/or other electronics or circuitry for generally controlling the e-cigarette. The control electronics/circuitry connect the vapour generating element to the battery when vapour is demanded, for example in response to a signal from an air pressure sensor or air flow sensor (not shown) that detects an inhalation on the system during which air enters through one or more air inlets in the wall of the power component to flow along the airflow channel. When the aerosol generating component receives power from the battery, the aerosol generating component vaporises aerosolisable material delivered from the storage compartment to generate the aerosol, and this is then inhaled by a user through the opening in the mouthpiece. The aerosol is carried to the mouthpiece along the airflow channel (not shown) that connects the air inlet to the air outlet when a user inhales on the mouthpiece. An airflow path through the electronic cigarette is hence defined, between the air inlet(s) (which may or may not be in the power component) to the atomiser and on to the air outlet at the mouthpiece. In use, the air flow direction along this airflow path is from the air inlet to the air outlet, so that the atomiser can be described as lying downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the air outlet.
In this particular example, the power section and the cartridge assembly are separate parts detachable from one another by separation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The components may be joined together when the device is in use by cooperating engagement elements (for example, a screw, magnetic or bayonet fitting) which provide mechanical and electrical connectivity between the power section and the cartridge assembly. This is merely an example arrangement, however, and the various components may be differently distributed between the power section and the cartridge assembly section, and other components and elements may be included. The two sections may connect together end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration, or in a different configuration such as a parallel, side-by-side arrangement. The system may or may not be generally cylindrical and/or have a generally longitudinal shape. Either or both sections may be intended to be disposed of and replaced when exhausted (the reservoir is empty or the battery is flat, for example), or be intended for multiple uses enabled by actions such as refilling the reservoir, recharging the battery, or replacing the atomiser. Alternatively, the e-cigarette may be a unitary device (disposable or refillable/rechargeable) that cannot be separated into two or more parts, in which case all components are comprised within a single body or housing. Examples of the present disclosure are applicable to any of these configurations and other configurations of which the skilled person will be aware.
As mentioned, a type of aerosol generating component, such as a heating element, that may be utilised in an atomising portion of an electronic cigarette (a part configured to generate vapour from a source liquid) combines the functions of heating and liquid delivery, by being both electrically conductive (resistive) and porous. Note here that reference to being electrically conductive (resistive) refers to components which have the capacity to generate heat in response to the flow of electrical current therein. Such flow could be imparted by, for example, so-called resistive heating. An example of a suitable material for this is an electrically conductive material such as a metal or metal alloy formed into a sheet-like form, i.e. a planar shape with a thickness many times smaller than its length or breadth. Examples in this regard may be a mesh, web, grill and the like. The mesh may be formed from metal wires or fibres which are woven together, or alternatively aggregated into a non-woven structure. For example, fibres may be aggregated by sintering, in which heat and/or pressure are applied to a collection of metal fibres to compact them into a single porous mass. It is possible for the planar aerosol generating component to define a curved plane and in these instances reference to the planar aerosol generating component forming a plane means an imaginary flat plane forming a plane of best fit through the component.
These structures can give appropriately sized voids and interstices between the metal fibres to provide a capillary force for wicking liquid. Thus, these structures can also be considered to be porous since they provide for the uptake and distribution of liquid. Moreover, due to the presence of voids and interstices between the metal fibres, it is possible for air to permeate through said structures. Also, the metal is electrically conductive and therefore suitable for resistive heating, whereby electrical current flowing through a material with electrical resistance generates heat. Structures of this type are not limited to metals, however. Other conductive materials may be formed into fibres and made into mesh, grill or web structures. Examples include ceramic materials, which may or may not be doped with substances intended to tailor the physical properties of the mesh.
A planar sheet-like porous aerosol generating component of this kind can be arranged within an electronic cigarette such that it lies within the aerosol generating chamber forming part of an airflow channel. The aerosol generating component may be oriented within the chamber such that air flow though the chamber may flow in a surface direction, i.e. substantially parallel to the plane of the generally planar sheet-like aerosol generating component. An example of such a configuration can be found in WO2010/045670 and WO2010/045671 , the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. Air can thence flow over the heating element, and gather vapour. Aerosol generation is thereby made very effective. In alternative examples, the aerosol generating component may be oriented within the chamber such that air flow though the chamber may flow in a direction which is substantially transverse to the surface direction, i.e. substantially orthogonally to the plane of the generally planar sheet-like aerosol generating component. An example of such a configuration can be found in WO2018/211252 , the contents of which are incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
The aerosol generating component may have, and/or be formed of, any one of the following structures: a woven or weave structure, mesh structure, fabric structure, open-pored fiber structure, open-pored sintered structure, open-pored foam or open-pored deposition structure. Said structures are suitable in particular for providing an aerosol generating component with a high degree of porosity. A high degree of porosity may ensure that the heat produced by the aerosol generating component is predominately used for evaporating the liquid and high efficiency can be obtained. A porosity of greater than 50% may be envisaged with said structures. In one embodiment, the porosity of the aerosol generating component is 50% or greater, 60% or greater, 70% or greater. The open-pored fiber structure can consist, for example, of a non-woven fabric which can be arbitrarily compacted, and can additionally be sintered in order to improve the cohesion. The open-pored sintered structure can consist, for example, of a granular, fibrous or flocculent sintered composite produced by a film casting process. The open-pored deposition structure can be produced, for example, by a CVD process, PVD process or by flame spraying. Open-pored foams are in principle commercially available and are also obtainable in a thin, fine-pored design.
In one embodiment, the aerosol generating component is formed from a single layer. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating component has at least two layers, wherein the layers contain at least one of the following structures: a plate, foil, paper, mesh, woven structure, fabric, open-pored fiber structure, open-pored sintered structure, open-pored foam or open-pored deposition structure. For example, the aerosol generating component can be formed by an electric heating resistor consisting of a metal foil combined with a structure comprising a capillary structure. Where the aerosol generating component is considered to be formed from a single layer, such a layer may be formed from a metal wire fabric, or from a non-woven metal fiber fabric. Individual layers are advantageously but not necessarily connected to one another by a heat treatment, such as sintering or welding. For example, the aerosol generating component can be designed as a sintered composite consisting of a stainless steel foil and one or more layers of a stainless steel wire fabric (material, for example AISI 304 or AISI 316). Alternatively, the aerosol generating component can be designed as a sintered composite consisting of at least two layers of a stainless steel wire fabric. The layers may be connected to one another by spot welding or resistance welding. Individual layers may also be connected to one another mechanically. For instance, a double-layer wire fabric could be produced just by folding a single layer. Instead of stainless steel, use may also be made, by way of example, of heating conductor alloys-in particular NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys ("Kanthal") which have an even higher specific electric resistance than stainless steel. The material connection between the layers is obtained by the heat treatment, as a result of which the layers maintain contact with one another-even under adverse conditions, for example during heating by the aerosol generating component and resultantly induced thermal expansions. Alternatively, the aerosol generating component may be formed from sintering a plurality of individual fibers together. Thus, the aerosol generating component can be comprised of sintered fibers, such as sintered metal fibers.
The aerosol generating component may comprise, for example, an electrically conductive thin layer of electrically resistive material, such as platinum, nickel, molybdenum, tungsten or tantalum, said thin layer being applied to a surface of the vaporizer by a PVD or CVD process, or any other suitable process. In this case, the aerosol generating component may comprise an electrically insulating material, for example of ceramic. Examples of suitable electrically resistive material include stainless steels, such as AISI 304 or AISI 316, and heating conductor alloys-in particular NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys ("Kanthal"), such as DIN material number 2,4658, 2,4867, 2,4869, 2,4872, 1,4843, 1,4860, 1,4725, 1,4765 and 1,4767.
As described above, the aerosol generating component may be formed from a sintered metal fiber material and may be in the form of a sheet. Material of this sort can be thought of a mesh or irregular grid, and is created by sintering together a randomly aligned arrangement or array of spaced apart metal fibers or strands. A single layer of fibers might be used, or several layers, for example up to five layers. As an example, the metal fibers may have a diameter of 8 to 12 µm, arranged to give a sheet of thickness 0.16 mm, and spaced to produce a material density of from 100 g/m² to 1500 g/m², such as from 150 g/m² to 1000 g/m², 200 g/m² to 500 g/m², or 200 to 250 g/m², and a porosity of 84%. The sheet thickness may also range from 0.1mm to 0.2mm, such as 0.1mm to 0.15mm. Specific thicknesses include 0.10 mm, 0.11 mm, 0.12mm, 0.13 mm, 0.14 mm, 0.15 mm or 0.1 mm. Generally, the aerosol generating component has a uniform thickness. However, it will be appreciated from the discussion below that the thickness of the aerosol generating component may also vary. This may be due, for example, to some parts of the aerosol generating component having undergone compression. Different fiber diameters and thicknesses may be selected to vary the porosity of the aerosol generating component. For example, the aerosol generating component may have a porosity of 66% or greater, or 70% or greater, or 75% or greater, or 80% or greater or 85% or greater, or 86% or greater.
The aerosol generating component may form a generally flat structure, comprising first and second surfaces. The generally flat structure may take the form of any two dimensional shape, for example, circular, semi-circular, triangular, square, rectangular and/ or polygonal. Generally, the aerosol generating component has a uniform thickness.
A width and/or length of the aerosol generating component may be from about 1 mm to about 50 mm. For example, the width and/or length of the vaporizer may be from 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm or 10 mm. The width may generally be smaller than the length of the aerosol generating component. It is to be understood that the dimensions of the aerosol generating component may be varied.
Where the aerosol generating component is formed from an electrically resistive material, electrical current is permitted to flow through the aerosol generating component so as to generate heat (so called Joule heating). In this regard, the electrical resistance of the aerosol generating component can be selected appropriately. For example, the aerosol generating component may have an electrical resistance of 2 ohms or less, such as 1.8 ohms or less, such as 1.7 ohms or less, such as 1.6 ohms or less, such as 1.5 ohms or less, such as 1.4 ohms or less, such as 1.3 ohms or less, such as 1.2 ohms or less, such as 1.1 ohms or less, such as 1.0 ohm or less, such as 0.9 ohms or less, such as 0.8 ohms or less, such as 0.7 ohms or less, such as 0.6 ohms or less, such as 0.5 ohms or less. The parameters of the aerosol generating component, such as material, thickness, width, length, porosity etc. can be selected so as to provide the desired resistance. In this regard, a relatively lower resistance will facilitate higher power draw from the power source, which can be advantageous in producing a high rate of aerosolisation. On the other hand, the resistance should not be so low so as to prejudice the integrity of the aerosol generator. For example, the resistance may not be lower than 0.5 ohms. The aerosol generating component may have a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be arranged at opposing ends of the aerosol generating component from each other. The electrical resistance may be between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector. Each of the electrical connectors may be for connection to an electrical contact such that the aerosol generating component can be energised.
Planar aerosol generating components, such as heating elements, suitable for use in systems, devices and articles disclosed herein may be formed by stamping or cutting (such as laser cutting) the desired shape from a larger sheet of porous material. This may include stamping out, cutting away or otherwise removing material to create openings in the aerosol generating component. These openings can influence both the ability for air to pass through the aerosol generating component and the propensity for electrical current to flow in certain areas.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article 100 comprising: a sealed container 101 comprising a first releasable barrier 102 and a reservoir 103 for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component 104 for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material, wherein the first releasable barrier 102 prevents fluid communication between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104.
By virtue of the first releasable barrier 102, the aerosolisable material and the aerosol generating component 101 can be separated from each other until use. This reduces the risk of degradation of the aerosolisable material and the aerosol generating component 101, which increases the longevity and shelf-life of the article. Moreover, by virtue of the sealed container 101, the article can be conveniently stored without leakage.
Example articles 100 according to this aspect are shown in Figs. 1A to 4A and 5 (at least).
It is to be understood that the sealed container 101 may include at least one sealed region, and may be provided in various forms. It is also to be understood that the at least one sealed region may be releasably sealed. That is, the or each sealed region may be releasable such that the region is no longer sealed.
The container 101 may be provided in various ways. For example, the container 101 may comprise or be formed of one or more polymers and/or one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics).
As shown in Fig. 3, the sealed container 101 may comprise a moulded part 101A. The sealed container 101 may comprise a seal part 101B. The seal part 101B may cover the moulded part 101A. For example, the seal part 101B may be sealed to the moulded part 101A. The seal part 101B may be sealed around the periphery of the moulded part 101A. The moulded part 101A may comprise a sealing surface 101A'. The sealing surface 101A' may be substantially planar. The moulded part 101A may comprise at least one recess 101A". The seal part 101B may be sealed to the sealing surface 101A'. The seal part 101B may seal the or each recess 101A".
The moulded part 101A may be a moulded plastic part. The moulded part 101A may be formed as a tray and/or base. The moulded part 101A may be rigid relative to the seal part 101B. The moulded part 101A may comprise or be formed of one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics).
The seal part 101B may be formed of a sheet material. The seal part 101B may be substantially planar. The seal part 101B may be flexible. The seal part 101B may comprise or be formed of a film. For example, the seal part 101B may be formed of a substantially planar flexible sheet material and/or formed of a film. The seal part 101B may be formed of or comprise one or more polymers.
The one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics) may be selected from polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl acetate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
The one or more polymers may be selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and/or polyethylene terephthalate. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
It has been found that a sealed container 101 as defined herein is efficient (in terms of cost and simplicity) to manufacture. For example, the sealed container 101 comprising the moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B (e.g. which is substantially planar) is particularly efficient (in terms of cost and simplicity) to manufacture.
It is to be understood that various materials may be used for the moulded part 101A and/or the seal part 101B.
Referring to Figs. 1A to 3 and 5, the sealed container 101 comprises the reservoir 103. The reservoir 103 may be sealed. The sealed container 101 may form (or define) the reservoir 103. The moulded part 101A may at least partially define the reservoir 103. The moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the reservoir 103. A recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A may at least partially define the reservoir 102. For example, a recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the reservoir 102.
The sealed container 101 may comprise an aerosol generation chamber 105. The aerosol generation chamber 105 may be sealed. The sealed container 101 may form (or define) the aerosol generation chamber 105. The moulded part 101A may at least partially define the aerosol generation chamber 105. The moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the aerosol generation chamber 105. A recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A may at least partially define the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, a recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be arranged in the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The reservoir 103 may be configured to at least partially collapse in response to aerosolisable material flowing out of the reservoir 103. In such embodiments, the reservoir 103 may be formed of a resiliently deformable material. For example, the reservoir 103 may be provided in a resiliently deformed state. In the resiliently deformed state, the reservoir 103 may have a tendency to move to a rest state. In the resiliently deformed state, the reservoir 103 may contain aerosolisable material. Upon release of the first frangible barrier 102, aerosolisable material may flow out of the reservoir 103. The article 100 (or the device 200) may include a flow regulator for controlling the rate at which aerosolisable material flows out of the reservoir 103.
As shown in Fig. 5, the sealed container 101 may comprise a fluid conduit 117. The fluid conduit 117 may extend from the reservoir 102 to the aerosol generation chamber 105 (e.g. through the sealed container 101). The sealed container 101 may form (or define) the fluid conduit 117. The moulded part 101A may at least partially define the fluid conduit 117. The moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the fluid conduit 117. A recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A may at least partially define the fluid conduit 117. For example, a recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the fluid conduit 117.
As discussed below, fluid communication between the reservoir 102 and the aerosol generating component 104 (and/or the aerosol generation chamber 105) through the fluid conduit 117 may be prevented by the first releasable barrier 102. Upon release of the first releasable barrier 102 aerosolisable may flow from the reservoir 102 through the fluid conduit towards the aerosol generating component 104.
In use of the article 100, an amount of the aerosol generated from the aerosolisable material may condense in the container 101, e.g. in the aerosol generation chamber 105. Condensed aerosolisable material may have an adverse effect on performance, e.g. by causing degradation of the aerosol generating component 104 and/or restricting fluid flow through the article 100.
The sealed container 101 may comprise a passage 109 for transferring any condensed aerosolisable material from the aerosol generation chamber 105 to the reservoir 102. Moreover, the passage 109 may equilibrate pressure in the reservoir 103 with pressure in the aerosol generation chamber 105 (e.g. atmospheric pressure) in use, as aerosolisable material is transferred from the reservoir 103 towards the aerosol generating component 104. This facilitates the transfer of aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104.
Referring to Fig. 5, the passage 109 may extend from the reservoir 102 to the aerosol generation chamber 105 (e.g. through the sealed container 101). The sealed container 101 may form the passage 109. The moulded part 101A may at least partially define the passage 109. The moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the passage 109. A recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A may at least partially define the passage 109. For example, a recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the passage 109.
The sealed container 101 may comprise a second releasable barrier 109' which seals the passage 109. In this regard, the second releasable barrier 109' may prevent fluid communication between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generation chamber 105 (or aerosol generating component 104) through the passage 109. Upon release of the second releasable barrier 109', fluid may communicate between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generation chamber 105 through the passage 109. The second releasable barrier 109' also helps to seal the reservoir 103 until use.
The second releasable barrier 109' may be released in various ways. For example, the second releasable barrier 109' may be released by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing. For example, the second releasable barrier 109' may be released by a device 200 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. For example, insertion of the article 100 into the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the second releasable barrier 109'. For example, a movement of the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the second releasable barrier 109'.
The sealed container 101 may form the second releasable barrier 109'. For example, the moulded part 101A may comprise the second releasable barrier 109'. The moulded part 101A may form the second releasable barrier 109'. The second releasable barrier 109' may be provided in various forms. For example, the second releasable barrier 109' may comprise at least one ridge. Other forms are envisaged. The second releasable barrier 109' may be provided in the passage 109 (e.g. at various locations therein).
The sealed container 101 may comprise an air passageway 106. In use, air may flow through the air passageway 106 and entrain aerosol for inhalation by the user. In this way, the container 101 facilitates the dual functions of preventing (or permitting) communication of aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component, and preventing (or permitting) communication of air flow to the aerosol generating component 104 so as to entrain generated aerosol in use. Using a single container 101 to perform such functions increases the reliability of the article 100 relative to an article comprising multiple separate components for carrying out such functions, and improves manufacturing efficiency. Moreover, by forming part of the airflow path through the container, condensate formation in and/or leakage into the device 200 can be reduced.
The air passageway 106 may extend through the aerosol generation chamber 105 (e.g. through the sealed container 101). The sealed container 101 may form (or define) the air passageway 106. The moulded part 101A may at least partially define the air passageway 106. The moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the air passageway 106. A recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A may at least partially define the air passageway 106. For example, a recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the air passageway 106. This is shown in Figs. 1A to 3 and 5.
The air passageway 106 may extend from at least one air inlet opening 107 (which may be releasably sealed). The air passageway 106 may extend to at least one air outlet opening 108 (which may be releasably sealed). The air passageway 106 may extend from the at least one air inlet opening 107 to the at least one air outlet opening 108. The air passageway 106 may bypass the reservoir 103. The air passageway 106, the air inlet opening 107, the seal 107', the air outlet opening 108, and the seal 108', are shown in Fig. 5.
A releasable portion 107' of the sealed container 101 may seal the at least one air inlet opening 107 (which may be referred to as the at least one releasably sealed air inlet 107). The releasable portion 107' sealing the at least one air inlet opening 107 may be a releasable portion 107' of the seal part 101B. Upon release of the releasable portion 107' sealing the at least one air inlet opening 107, the at least one air inlet opening 107 may be provided in the container 101, e.g. in the seal part 101B. That is, upon release of the releasable portion 107' sealing the at least one air inlet opening 107, the at least one air inlet opening 107 may be no longer sealed.
A releasable portion 108' of the sealed container 101 may seal the at least one air outlet opening 108 (which may be referred to as the at least one releasably sealed air outlet 108). The releasable portion 108' sealing the at least one air outlet opening 108 may be a releasable portion 108' of the seal part 101B. Upon release of the releasable portion 108' sealing the at least one air outlet opening 108, the at least one air outlet opening 108 may be provided in the container 101, e.g. in the seal part 101B. That is, upon release of the releasable portion 108' of the sealed container 101, the at least one air outlet opening 108 may be no longer sealed.
Upon release of the releasable portions 107', 108', air may enter the at least one air inlet opening 107, flow through the air passageway 106, and exit the at least one air outlet opening 108.
As shown in Fig. 5, the at least one air inlet opening 107 may be upstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. The at least one air outlet opening 108 may be downstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. In such arrangements, it has been found that a reduced amount of condensate is formed in use relative to articles in which the air inlet opening is provided on a wall of the aerosol generation chamber 105. This results in improvements in efficiency and performance. For example, by reducing the amount of condensate in the aerosol generation chamber 105 in use, the aerosol generating component 104 has reduced exposure to said condensate which draws heat away from the aerosol generating component 104.
A releasable portion 105' of the sealed container 101 may be provided adjacent to the aerosol generating component 104. The releasable portion adjacent to the aerosol generating component 104 may be provided on the aerosol generation chamber 105. The releasable portion 105' adjacent to the aerosol generating component 104 may be a releasable portion 105' of the seal part 101B. Upon release of the releasable portion adjacent to the aerosol generating component 104, at least one electrode of the device 200 may form an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104 (e.g. through the container 101).
The sealed container 101 may comprise a retaining feature 115 for retaining the aerosol generating component 104. The retaining feature 115 may be provided in the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The sealed container 101 may form the retaining feature 115. For example, the moulded part 101A may form the retaining feature 115. By forming the retaining feature 115 of the container 101, the durability of the article 100 is improved. For example, the durability of the article 100 may be improved relative to an article in which a retaining feature is formed separately from a container, which retaining feature being at risk of displacement through normal use of the article.
The retaining feature 115 may be provided in various different forms. For example, the retaining feature 115 may comprise at least one ridge and/or at least one groove. For example, the retaining feature 115 may comprise at least one portion of increased rigidity and/or at least one portion of increased mechanical strength (e.g. relative to an adjacent portion of the container 100).
The retaining feature 115 may be for resiliently retaining the aerosol generating component 104. The retaining feature 115 may grip the aerosol generating component 104.
The retaining feature 115 may be for retaining the aerosol generating component 104 in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (as in, for example, Figs. 1A to 4A and 5). The retaining feature 115 may bias the aerosol generating component 104 against the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The retaining feature 115 may suspend the aerosol generating component 104 and/or the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 in the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the retaining feature 115 may suspend the aerosol generating component 104 in the aerosol generation chamber 105 such that the aerosol generating component 104 is spaced apart from the wall or walls of the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The retaining feature 115 may be for retaining the aerosol generating component 104 in contact with at least one electrode 207, e.g. of the device 200. This provides for a more stable electrical connection between the article 100 and the device 200 and thus more stable performance. The retaining feature 115 may bias the aerosol generating component 104 against the at least one electrode 207.
The first releasable barrier 102 prevents fluid communication between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104. Upon release of the first releasable barrier 102, aerosolisable material may communicate between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104 through the container 101. For example, upon release of the first releasable barrier 102, aerosolisable material may communicate between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104 through the fluid conduit 117.
The first releasable barrier 102 may be released in various ways. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be released by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be released by a device 200 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. For example, insertion of the article 100 into the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the first releasable barrier 102. For example, a movement of the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the first releasable barrier 102.
The sealed container 101 may form the first releasable barrier 102. For example, the moulded part 101A may comprise the first releasable barrier 102. The moulded part 101A may form the first releasable barrier 102.
The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in various forms. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may comprise at least one ridge. Other forms are envisaged.
The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in various locations. The first releasable barrier 102 is provided in the container 101. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided downstream of the reservoir 103. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided upstream of the aerosol generating component 104. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided upstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in the fluid conduit 117. In Figs. 1A to 4A and 5 (for example), the first releasable barrier 102 is provided upstream of the aerosol generating component 104 and aerosol generation chamber 105, downstream of the reservoir 103, and between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104. In Figs. 1A to 4A and 5 (for example), the first releasable barrier 102 is provided in the fluid conduit 117.
Upon release of the first releasable barrier 102, aerosolisable material may flow from the reservoir 103 through the container to the aerosol generating component 104, e.g. via the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. By configuring the article 100 such that aerosolisable material flows through the container 101 in use, there is a reduced risk of leakage of aerosolisable material into the device 200.
The article 100 may comprise an aerosolisable material transfer component 110 for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104. For example, the transferring may be upon release of the first releasable barrier 102. The transferring may be passive. That is, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104 in the absence of a power source effecting the transfer.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a flow gradient. The flow gradient may cause aerosolisable material to flow in a particular direction in the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have an upstream portion and a downstream portion. The flow gradient may be such that aerosolisable material flows from the upstream portion to the downstream portion. The downstream portion may be arranged towards or in contact with the aerosol generating component.
The flow gradient may cause passive flow of aerosolisable material. For example, the flow gradient may cause capillary flow of aerosolisable material.
The flow gradient may be provided in various ways. For example, the flow gradient may be provided by compression of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (or a portion thereof). For example, the downstream portion may have a smaller average pore size than the upstream portion. For example, the downstream portion may be more compressed than the upstream portion (e.g. to provide the variation in average pore size). It will be appreciated that aerosolisable material may tend to flow towards areas of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 having a reduced average pore size.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a capillary structure. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a porous structure (e.g. a porous capillary structure). The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be a wick (e.g. a capillary wick). For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise cotton (although other materials are envisaged).
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be provided in various forms. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a longitudinal extent. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be in the form of a strip. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be substantially flat.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may at least partially arranged in the reservoir 103. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the reservoir 103. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend through the fluid conduit 117. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend towards or to the aerosol generating component 104. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be at least partially arranged in the aerosol generation chamber 105. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend to the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the reservoir 103 to or towards the aerosol generating component 104.
As shown in Figs. 1A to 4A and 5, the aerosol generating component 104 may be arranged on the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. For example, the aerosol generating component 104 may be arranged in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The article 100 may comprise at securing element for securing the aerosol generating component 104 to the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. The securing element may be provided in various forms. For example, the securing element 104 may be formed by the aerosol generating component 104. For example, the securing element may extend around a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The article 100 may comprise an aerosolisable material storage component 111 arranged at least partially in the reservoir 103 (e.g. see Figs. 1A to 4A and 5). For example, the storage component 111 may be arranged in the reservoir 103. The storage component 111 can absorb aerosolisable material in the reservoir 103. In this way, the storage component 111 may help to provide aerosolisable material at a particular location in the reservoir 103.
The storage component 111 may have a flow gradient which causes aerosolisable material to flow in a particular direction in the storage component 111. For example, the storage component 111 may have an upstream portion 112 and a downstream portion 113. The flow gradient may be such that aerosolisable material flows from the upstream portion 112 to the downstream portion 113.
The flow gradient may cause passive flow of aerosolisable material. For example, the flow gradient may cause capillary flow of aerosolisable material.
The flow gradient may be provided in various ways. For example, the flow gradient may be provided by compression of the storage component 111 (or a portion thereof). For example, the downstream portion 113 may have a smaller average pore size than the upstream portion 112. For example, the downstream portion 113 may be more compressed than the upstream portion 112 (e.g. to provide the variation in average pore size). It will be appreciated that aerosolisable material may tend to flow towards areas of the storage component 111 having a reduced average pore size.
The downstream portion of the storage component 111 may be arranged towards or in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (as shown in Figs. 1A to 4A and 5). In this way, the storage component 111 can help to draw aerosolisable material to the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 for transfer to the aerosol generating component 104.
The article 100 may comprise a mouthpiece. For example, the container 101 may form a mouthpiece. For example, the air outlet opening 108 may be provided at the mouthpiece. In such articles 100, a portion of container 101 may extended outside of the device 200 in use.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be provided in various forms.
Referring to Figs. 1A to 4A and 5, the aerosol generating component 104 may be substantially planar. The aerosol generating component 104 may be formed of an electrically conductive material.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be an induction heating element. By use of an induction heating element, manufacture of the article 100 is simplified. In this regard, the article 100 can be used in a device in the absence of electrodes of the device projecting through the container 101 and forming an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104. Moreover, in the absence of such electrodes, there is a reduced risk of leakage of aerosolisable material into the device 200 during use. The induction heating element may comprise a susceptor. The device 200 may include an induction coil.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be a convection heating element. The convection heating element may be provided at a variety of different locations in the container 101, which allows for flexibility in design. The convection heating element may comprise a heater and a fan arranged to direct heated air from the heater (e.g. towards the at least one air outlet opening 108).
The aerosol generating component 104 may comprise at least one electrical contact 114.
The first releasable barrier 102 may be moveable between a closed state and an open state. In the closed state the first releasable barrier 102 may prevent communication between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104. In the open state fluid can flow between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104 through the first releasable barrier 102. Such a first releasable barrier 102 is schematically illustrated in Figs. 13A to 13C.
Figs. 13A and 13B each show schematic illustration of a container 101 having the features described in relation to Figs. 1A to 3 and 5. The container 101 has a longitudinal axis extending between respective ends thereof. Figs. 13A and 13B each show a cross-sectional view of the container in which the cutting plane extends through the first releasable barrier 102 and is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the container 101. In Fig. 13A the first releasable barrier 102 is in the closed state. In Fig. 13B the first releasable barrier 102 is in the open state.
Fig. 13C shows a schematic illustration of an article comprising the container of Figs. 13A and 13B, in plan (top) view. In Fig. 13C, the article 100 has the features described in relation to Figs. 1A to 3 and 5, but not all of these features are shown in Fig. 13C for clarity.
By virtue of the first releasable barrier 102 having a closed state and an open state, the article 100 can be interchanged between a storage configuration and a use configuration. For example, this is particularly advantageous when a user stops using and stores the article 100, e.g. for use at a later time. In particular, when the article 100 is stored and/or transported in the closed state there may be a reduced risk of leakage of aerosolisable material.
The first releasable barrier 102 may automatically tend to the closed state. For example, in the absence of a force moving the first releasable barrier 102 to the open state, the first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in the closed state. This further reduces the risk of leakage of aerosolisable material when the article 101 is stored and/or transported
The first releasable barrier 102 may be resiliently (or elastically) deformable from the closed state to the open state. In this way, in the closed state may be considered as a "rest" state, and the open state may be considered as a "deformed" state. In the absence of a force urging the first releasable barrier 102 into the open state, the first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in the closed state. For example, if the first releasable barrier 102 is moved to the open state by a force and said force is removed, the first releasable barrier 102 may relax from the open state to the closed state. The first releasable barrier 102 may be formed of a resiliently deformable material. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may comprise or be formed of a polymeric material, such as silicone. Other materials are envisaged. A resiliently deformable first releasable barrier 102 is efficient and reliable, as it does not require a power source and/or additional components.
Referring to Figs. 13A to 13C, the first releasable barrier 102 may comprise a first portion 102A, a second portion 102B, and/or an openable passage 102C. The first portion 102A and the second portion 102B may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the first portion 102A and the second portion 102B may be formed as separate pieces.
The openable passage 102C may be arranged between the first portion 102A and the second portion 102B. In the closed state the openable passage may be closed. In the closed state the openable passage may prevent fluid communication between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104. In the open state the openable passage may be open. In the open state fluid can flow between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104 through the (open) openable passage.
The first portion 102A and the second portion 102B may be movable relative to each other so as to vary the size of the openable passage 102C. The second portion 102B may be movable relative to the first portion 102A, which may be fixed in position.
The container 101 may comprise a locating structure 118. The locating structure 118 may permit movement of the second portion 102B relative to the first portion 102A, e.g. between the open state and the closed state. For example, the locating structure 118 may guide the movement of the second portion 102B relative to the first portion 102A, e.g. between the open state and the closed state. For example the second portion 102B may be configured to translate (e.g. slide) along the locating structure 118 relative to the first portion 102A, e.g. between the open state and the closed state. The locating structure 118 may retain the first portion 102A. The locating structure 118 may be a projection, e.g. a pin. The locating structure 108 may extend from an inner surface of the container 101.
A force may be applied to the second portion 102B to move (e.g. urge) the second portion 102B relative to the first portion 102A from the closed state to the open state. The movement may be sliding. Upon removal of the force, the second portion 102B may move (e.g. relax) relative to the first portion 102A from the open state to the closed state, e.g. under the influence of the first releasable barrier 102.
The second portion 102B may comprise at least one engagement portion 102B'. For example, the second portion 102B may comprise a plurality (e.g. a pair) of engagement portions 102B'. The at least one engagement portion 102B' may be a tab or projection. In use, a force can engage the at least one engagement portion 102B' to move the first releasable barrier 102 between the open state and the closed state.
Referring to Figs 13A to 13C, the locating structure 118 permits movement of the second portion 102B relative to the first portion 102A between the open state and the closed state, and retains the first portion 102A. The locating structure 118 is a projection which extends from an inner surface of the container 101 through the second portion 102B and abuts the first portion 102A, such that the second portion 102B can slide along the projection relative to the first portion 102A between the open state and the closed state. The second portion 102B comprises a pair of engagement portions 102B'. In use, a force (indicated by the arrows in Fig. 13A) may be applied to the engagement portions 102B' to move (e.g. urge) the second portion 102B relative to the first portion 102A from the closed state to the open state. Upon removal of the force, the second portion 102B may move (e.g. relax) relative to the first portion 102A from the open state to the closed state, e.g. under the influence of the first releasable barrier 102.
The container 101 may comprise at least one access aperture 119. The at least one access aperture 119 may facilitate access to the first releasable barrier 102, e.g. the second portion 102B, such as the at least one engagement portion 102B'. For example, the force may be applied through the at least one access aperture 119 to the first releasable barrier 102 (e.g. the second portion 102B, such as the at least one engagement portion 102B'). The at least one access aperture 119 may be sealed from the reservoir 103, the fluid conduit 117, the openable passage 102C, and/or the aerosol generation chamber 105. In Figs. 13A to 13C, the at least one access aperture 119 is sealed from the reservoir 103, the fluid conduit 117, the openable passage 102C, and the aerosol generation chamber 105. In this way, the at least one access aperture 119 may be sealed from all aerosolisable material flow paths in the container 101.
In embodiments comprising the aerosolisable material transfer component 110, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend through the openable passage. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 is shown schematically in Fig. 13C, but is not shown in Figs. 13A and 13B for simplicity.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be porous. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a capillary structure. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be compressible. In Fig. 13A to 13C, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 is as described in relation to Figs. 1A to 3 and 5.
In the open state fluid can flow between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104 through the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. In the closed state the first releasable barrier 102 may compress a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 such that aerosolisable material cannot flow between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104 through the compressed portion. The compressed portion may provide a flow restriction which prevents fluid flow therethrough. Compression of the portion may cause a reduction in the average pore size of the portion. In this way, the compressed portion may have a smaller average pore size than an uncompressed portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. This pore size differential may cause aerosolisable material to flow from an uncompressed portion towards the compressed portion. This helps to reduce leakage, and is particularly advantageous when the article 100 is not in use. The mechanical structure of the compressed portion along with aerosolisable material within the pores of the compressed portion result in a particularly effective seal.
The reservoir 103 may be flexible. For example, the reservoir 103 may be formed of a flexible material. Accordingly, a pressure applied to an external surface of the reservoir 103 may increase the internal pressure of the reservoir 103. Increasing the internal pressure of the reservoir 103 may promote the flow of aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 towards the aerosol generating component 104.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a device 200 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device 200 comprising: a housing 201 for receiving an article 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier 102.
Example devices 200 according to this aspect are shown in Figs. 4A and 4B and 6.
The device 200 may be configured to release the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108'.
The device 200 may release said barrier(s) 102, 109' and/or portion(s) 105', 107', 108' in various ways. For example, the device 200 may comprise at least one releasing component 202 for releasing the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108'.
The at least one releasing component 202 may comprise a releasing component 202 for releasing the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108. That is, a single releasing component 202 may release said barrier(s) 102, 109' and/or portion(s) 105', 107', 108'. Alternatively, the at least one releasing component 202 may comprise a respective releasing component 202 for releasing each of the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 107', 105', 108. That is, for example, a plurality of releasing components 202 may be provided, where a respective releasing component 202 releases a respective barrier 102, 109' or portion 105', 107', 108'. Other arrangements are envisaged.
The device 200 may be for breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108'. The or each releasing component 202 may be for breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108'. The or each releasing component 202 may be a piercing component, a puncturing component, a breaking component, and/or a rupturing component.
The at least one releasing component 202 may be provided in various forms. For example, the or each releasing component 202 may comprise at least one projection. The at least one projection may comprise at least one point and/or at least one blade. Other forms are envisaged.
The housing 201 may comprise (or form or define) a space 203 for receiving the article 100. When the article 100 is received by the housing 201, the article 100 may be partially within the housing 201 or completely within the housing 201. For example, a mouthpiece formed by the article 100 (or container 101) may extend out of the housing 201.
The housing 201 may be formed of a first part 204 and a second part 205. The first part 204 may be moveable between a closed position in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 together define an enclosed space 203 for at least part of the article 100 to be located (e.g. for aerosol generation), and an open position in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 are spaced apart from each other such that the space 203 is accessible. In Fig. 4A the device 200 is shown in the open position and in Fig. 4B the device 200 is shown in the closed position. In Fig. 6 the device 200 is shown in the closed position.
Movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 (e.g. the at least one releasing component 202) to release the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108'.
The at least one releasing component 202 may be provided in various locations. The at least one releasing component 202 may be provided on or by the first part 204 and/or the second part 205. For example, the or each releasing component may be provided on the first part 204 or the second part 205.
In Fig. 6, the device 200 includes five releasing components 202'. A first releasing component 202' is for releasing the first releasable barrier 102. A second releasing component 202' is for releasing the second releasable barrier 109'. A third releasing component 202' is for releasing the releasable portion 107'. A fourth releasing component 202' is for releasing the releasable portion 108'. A fifth releasing component 202' (provided by the at least one electrode 207, as discussed below) is for releasing the releasable portion 105'. The first to fourth releasing components 202' are provided on the first part 204, and the fifth releasing component 202' is provided on the second part 205. Movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position, when the article 101 is received by the housing 201, causes the releasing components 202' to release the first releasable barrier 102, the second releasable barrier 109', and the releasable portions 105', 107', 108'
The first part 204 may be slidably and/or rotatably moveable relative to the second part 205. The first part 204 may be connected to the second part 205 in the open position and the closed position.
In some aspects, the device 200 may comprise actuation means for causing the at least one releasing component 202 to release the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108. The actuation means may be provided in various forms. For example, the actuation means may be a button or a switch. In such aspects, the at least one releasing component 202 may be, for example, spring-loaded. Other forms are envisaged.
The device 200 may comprise at least one electrode 207 for forming an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104 (e.g. at least one electrical contact 114 thereof).
The at least one electrode 207 may be retained by the housing 201. The at least one electrode 207 may be provided on the first part 204 or the second part 205. A releasing component 202 of the at least one releasing component, may be provided by the at least one electrode 207. That is, the at least one releasing component 202 may comprise at least one electrode 207 for releasing a releasable portion (e.g. 105') of the container 101 and thereby forming an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104 through the container 101.
The device 200 may comprise at least one air inlet aperture 208 and at least one air outlet aperture 209. The at least one air inlet aperture 208 may be formed by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 or the second part 205). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 or the second part 205). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed as a mouthpiece (see Figs. 4A and 4B).
Considering Figs. 13A to 13C, the device 200 may be configured to move the first releasable barrier 102 between the closed state and the open state. For example, the device 200 may be configured to move (e.g. urge) the first releasable barrier 102 from the closed state to the open state. For example, the device 200 may be configured to apply a force to the first releasable barrier 102 (e.g. the second portion 102B, such as the at least one engagement portion 102B') to move (e.g. urge) the first releasable barrier 102 from the closed state to the open state. The device 200 may be considered to relinquish the force.
When the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement from the open position to the closed position may cause movement of the first releasable barrier 102 from the closed state to the open state. When the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause movement of the first releasable barrier 102 from the closed state to the open state. For example, when the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the first part 204 to apply a force to the first releasable barrier 102 (e.g. the second portion 102B, such as the at least one engagement portion 102B') thereby to cause the first releasable barrier 102 to move from the closed state to the open state.
When the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement from the closed position to the open position may cause movement of the first releasable barrier 102 from the open state to the closed state. When the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement of the first part 204 from the closed position to the open position may cause movement of the first releasable barrier 102 from the open state to the closed state. When the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement of the first part 204 from the closed positon to the open position may relinquish the force applied to the first releasable barrier 102 (e.g. the second portion 102B, such as the at least one engagement portion 102B'). In this way, the first releasable barrier 102 may move (e.g. relax) to the closed state, e.g. under the influence of the first releasable barrier 102.
The first part 204 may comprise at least one engagement structure (not shown in the figures). The engagement structure may be configured to engage the first releasable barrier 102 (e.g. the second portion 102B, such as the at least one engagement portion 102B'), so as to move the first releasable barrier 102 between the closed state and the open state. The at least one engagement structure may be a projection. The at least one engagement structure may project from the first part 204.
When the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement of the first part 204 from the open positon to the closed position may cause the at least one engagement structure to project through the at least one access aperture 119 and apply a force to the first releasable barrier 102 (e.g. the second portion 102B, such as the at least one engagement portion 102B'), so as to move (e.g. urge) the first releasable barrier 102 from the closed state to the open state. When the article 100 is received by the housing 101, movement of the first part 204 from the closed positon to the open position may retract the at least one engagement structure and relinquish the force. Upon removal of the force, the first releasable barrier 102 may move (e.g. relax) to the closed state, e.g. under the influence of the first releasable barrier 102.
The device 200 may be configured to apply a force to the reservoir 103, e.g. to increase the internal pressure of the reservoir 103 (which may be flexible). Movement from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 (e.g. the housing 201, e.g. the first part 204) to apply the force to the reservoir 103, e.g. to increase the internal pressure of the reservoir 103. For example, movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 (e.g. the housing 201, e.g. the first part 204) to apply the force to the reservoir 103, e.g. to increase the internal pressure of the reservoir 103. Releasing the first releasable barrier 102 and increasing the internal pressure of the reservoir 103 (e.g. simultaneously) helps to promote the flow of aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 towards the aerosol generating component 103.
In use of the device 200 of Figs. 4A and 4B and 6, the article 100 may be inserted into the housing 201 (e.g. in the space 203, e.g. when the device 200 is in the open position), such that the article 100 is received by the housing 201. For example, when the article 100 received by the housing 201, it is to be understood the face of the article shown in Fig. 1A faces the face of the second part 205 shown in Fig. 4A. Movement of the first part 205 from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 (e.g. the at least one releasing component 202) to release the first releasable barrier 102 and/or the second releasable barrier 109' and/or the or each releasable portion 105', 107', 108. With the first releasable barrier 102 released, aerosolisable material can flow from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104, e.g. via the aerosol generating material transfer component 110. With the second releasable barrier 109' released, any condensed aerosolisable material can be transferred from the aerosol generation chamber 105 to the reservoir 103. With each of the releasable portions 105', 107', 108 released, the at least one electrode 207 of the device 200 may form an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104 through the container, and air may enter the air inlet opening 107, flow through the air passageway 106 and aerosol generation chamber 105, and exit the air outlet opening 108.
When a user inhales on the device 200 (e.g. the mouthpiece), air enters the device 200 at the at least one air inlet aperture 212, flows through the at least one air inlet opening 107, the air passageway 106 and the aerosol generation chamber 105, the at least one air outlet opening 108, and the at least one air outlet aperture 213 via e.g. the mouthpiece, into the mouth of the user. Air flowing through the aerosol generation chamber 105 entrains aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 104, and the mixture of air and entrained aerosol flows into the mouth of the user.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: an article 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; a device 200 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
The system (e.g. the article 100 or the device 200) may be configured such that removal of the article 100 from the housing 201 renders the aerosol generating component inoperable. For example, removal of the article 100 from the housing 201 may break the aerosol generating component.
The system may include any feature or features of any aspect of the present disclosure.
In an aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an article 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article 100 comprising a container 101 comprising a sealed reservoir 103 for aerosolisable material, wherein the sealed reservoir 103 comprises a releasable portion 103, wherein upon release of the releasable portion 103 aerosolisable material can flow out of the reservoir 103. The sealed reservoir 103 may contain aerosolisable material. The article 100 according to this aspect is efficient (in terms of cost and simplicity) to manufacture.
An example article 100 according to this aspect is shown in Figs. 7A to 7C.
The container 101 may be provided in various forms. Referring to Figs. 7A to 7C, the container 101 may be formed of a sheet material. The container 101 may be flexible. The container 101 may comprise or be formed of a film. The container 101 may be integrally formed. In Figs. 7A to 7C, the container 101 is formed of a flexible, integrally formed sheet material formed of a film. As shown in Fig. 7B, the container 101 may have a substantially planar surface (e.g. outer surface) and an opposing convex surface (e.g. outer surface), as shown in Fig. 7B. The container 101 may comprise or be formed of one or more polymers and/or one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics). The container 101 may be referred to as a sealed container 101. Other forms are envisaged.
The one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics) may be selected from polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl acetate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
The one or more polymers may be selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and/or polyethylene terephthalate. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
An aerosol generating component 104 may not be present in the container 101.
The container 101 comprises the sealed reservoir 103. The container 101 may form (or define) the sealed reservoir 103. For example, the container 101 may define an enclosed space corresponding to the sealed reservoir 103.
It is to be understood that part the sealed reservoir 103 may be releasable, or the entire sealed reservoir 103 may be releasable. The latter is shown in Figs. 7A to 7C. Thus, it is to be understood that "releasable portion 103" encompasses a part of the sealed reservoir 103 and/or the entire of the sealed reservoir 103.
The releasable portion 103 may be released in various ways. For example, the releasable portion 103 may be released by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing. For example, the releasable portion 103 may be released by a device 200 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. For example, insertion of the article 100 into the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the releasable portion 103. For example, a movement of the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the releasable portion 103.
The sealed reservoir 103 may be configured to at least partially collapse in response to aerosolisable material flowing out of the reservoir 103. In such embodiments, the sealed reservoir 103 may be formed of a resiliently deformable material. For example, the sealed reservoir 103 may be provided in a resiliently deformed state. In the resiliently deformed state, the sealed reservoir 103 may have a tendency to move to a rest state. In the resiliently deformed state, the sealed reservoir 103 may contain aerosolisable material. Upon release of the releasable portion 103, aerosolisable material may flow out of the reservoir 103. The article 100 (or the device 200) may include a flow regulator for controlling the rate at which aerosolisable material flows out of the reservoir 103.
Referring to Fig. 7C, the article 100 may comprise an electrical link 116. The electrical link 116 may be for forming an electrical connection with an aerosol generating component 104 (e.g. at least one electrical contact 114 thereof), which may not be comprised by the article 100.
The electrical link 116 may be provided on the container 101. The electrical link 116 may be provided on an outer surface of the container 101. The electrical link 116 may be provided distal the sealed reservoir 103. The electrical link 116 may be provided downstream of the sealed reservoir 103. The electrical link 116 may be provided outside of the sealed reservoir 103.
The article 100 may include any feature or features described in relation to any aspect of the present disclosure.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a device 200 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device 200 comprising: a housing 201 for receiving an article 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; wherein the device is configured to release the releasable portion 103.
For example, the article 100 may be an article 100 according to Figs. 7A to C. For example, the article 100 may comprise a container 101 comprising a sealed reservoir 103 for aerosolisable material, wherein the sealed reservoir 103 comprises a releasable portion 103, wherein upon release of the releasable portion 103 aerosolisable material can flow out of the reservoir 103
Example devices 200 according to this aspect are shown in Figs. 8 and 9. The device 200 may include any feature or features described in relation to any aspect of the present disclosure.
The device 200 may be configured to release the releasable portion 103 in various ways. For example, the device 200 may include a releasing component 202 for releasing the releasable portion 103.
The device 200 may be for breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier 102. The releasing component 202 may be for breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier 102. The releasing component 202 may be a piercing component, a puncturing component, a breaking component, and/or a rupturing component.
The releasing component 202 may be provided in various forms. For example, the releasing component 202 may comprise at least one projection. The at least one projection may comprise at least one point and/or at least one blade. Other forms are envisaged.
The housing 201 may comprise a space 203 for receiving the article 100. When the article 100 is received by the housing 201, the article 100 may be partially within the housing 201 or completely within the housing 201. For example, a mouthpiece formed by the article 100 (or container 101) may extend out of the housing 201.
The housing 201 may be formed of a first part 204 and a second part 205. The first part 204 may be moveable between a closed position in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 together define an enclosed space 203 for at least part of the article 100 to be located (e.g. for aerosol generation), and an open position (see Figs. 8 and 9) in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 are spaced apart from each other such that the space 203 is accessible. In Figs. 8 and 9 the devices 200 are shown in the open position.
Movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 (e.g. the releasing component 202) to release the releasable portion 103.
The releasing component 202 may be provided in various locations. For example, the releasing component may be provided on the first part 204 (shown as an option in Fig. 9 in phantom line) or the second part 205 (shown in Figs. 8 and 9).
In Figs. 8 and 9, the devices include a single releasing component 202 which is provided on the second part 205. Movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position, when the article 101 is received by the housing 201, causes the releasing component 202 to release the releasable portion 103.
The first part 204 may be slidably and/or rotatably moveable relative to the second part 205. The first part 204 may be connected to the second part 205 in the open position and the closed position.
In some aspects, the device 200 may comprise actuation means for causing the device 200 (e.g. the releasing component 202) to release the releasable portion 103. The actuation means may be provided in various forms. For example, the actuation means may be a button or a switch. In such aspects, the at least one releasing component 202 may be, for example, spring-loaded. Other forms are envisaged.
The device 200 may comprise an aerosol generating component 104. The aerosol generating component 104 may include any feature or features of any aerosol generating component 104 described in relation to any aspect of the present disclosure. For example, the aerosol generating component 104 may be substantially planar. The aerosol generating component 104 may be formed of an electrically conductive material. The aerosol generating component 104 may be an induction heating element. The induction heating element may comprise a susceptor. The device 200 may include an induction coil. The aerosol generating component 104 may be a convection heating element. The convection heating element may be provided at a variety of different locations in the container 101. The convection heating element may comprise a heater and a fan arranged to direct heated air from the heater (e.g. towards the at least one air outlet aperture 209).
The aerosol generating component 104 may comprise at least one electrical contact 114.
The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may comprise an aerosol generation chamber 105. The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may form (or define) the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the first part 204 and/or the second part 205 may define the aerosol generation chamber 105 in the closed position.
The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may comprise an air passage 211. The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may form (or define) the air passage 211. For example, the first part 204 and/or the second part 205 may define the air passage 211 in the closed position.
The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may comprise at least one air inlet aperture 208 and at least one air outlet aperture 209. The air passage 211 may extend through the aerosol generation chamber 105. The air passage 211 may extend between the at least one air inlet aperture 208 and the at least one air outlet aperture 209. The at least one air inlet aperture 208 may be formed (or defined) by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 or the second part 205, e.g. in the closed position). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed (or defined) by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 or the second part 205, e.g. in the closed position). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed as a mouthpiece.
The at least one air inlet aperture 208 may be upstream from the aerosol generation chamber 105. The at least one air inlet aperture 209 may be downstream from the aerosol generation chamber 105. Such arrangements help to reduce the amount of condensate that may form in the aerosol generation chamber 105 in use.
The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may comprise a cavity 210' for receiving the sealed reservoir 103. The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may form (or define) the cavity 210'. For example, the first part 204 and/or the second part 205 may define the cavity 210' in the closed position. Upon release of the releasable portion 103, aerosolisable material may flow into the cavity 210'.
The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may comprise a channel 210" extending from the cavity 210' to the aerosol generation chamber 105. The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may form (or define) the channel 210". For example, the first part 204 and/or the second part 205 may define the channel 210" in the closed position.
The channel 210" may be a capillary channel. The channel 210" may be configured to transfer aerosolisable material from the cavity 210' to the aerosol generation chamber 105. The channel 210" may be configured to transfer aerosolisable material from the cavity 210' towards the aerosol generating component 104. The channel 210" may be upstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The device 210 may comprise an aerosol generating material transfer component 110. The aerosol generating material transfer component 110 may include any feature or features of any aerosol generating material transfer component 110 described in relation to any aspect of the present disclosure.
For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 (upon release; or the cavity 210') to the aerosol generating component 104. For example, the transferring may be upon release of the releasable portion 103. The transferring may be passive. That is, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 (upon release) to the aerosol generating component 104 in the absence of a power source effecting the transfer.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a flow gradient. The flow gradient may cause aerosolisable material to flow in a particular direction in the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have an upstream portion and a downstream portion. The flow gradient may be such that aerosolisable material flows from the upstream portion to the downstream portion. The downstream portion may be arranged towards or in contact with the aerosol generating component.
The flow gradient may cause passive flow of aerosolisable material. For example, the flow gradient may cause capillary flow of aerosolisable material.
The flow gradient may be provided in various ways. For example, the flow gradient may be provided by compression of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (or a portion thereof). For example, the downstream portion may have a smaller average pore size than the upstream portion. For example, the downstream portion may be more compressed than the upstream portion (e.g. to provide the variation in average pore size). It will be appreciated that aerosolisable material may tend to flow towards areas of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 having a reduced average pore size.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a capillary structure. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a porous structure (e.g. a porous capillary structure). The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be a wick (e.g. a capillary wick). For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise cotton (although other materials are envisaged).
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be provided in various forms. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a longitudinal extent. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be in the form of a strip. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be substantially flat.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may at least partially arranged in the cavity 210'. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the cavity 210'. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend through the channel 210". The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend towards or to the aerosol generating component 104. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be at least partially arranged in the aerosol generation chamber 105. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend to the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the cavity 210' to the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the cavity 210' to or towards the aerosol generating component 104.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be arranged on the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. For example, the aerosol generating component 104 may be arranged in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The article 100 may comprise at securing element for securing the aerosol generating component 104 to the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. The securing element may be provided in various forms. For example, the securing element 104 may be formed by the aerosol generating component 104. For example, the securing element may extend around a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The aerosol generating material transfer component 110 may be at least partially provided in the channel 210". The aerosol generating material transfer component 110 may extend from the cavity 210' to or towards the aerosol generating component 104, e.g. through the channel 210".
In use of the devices 200 of Figs. 8 and 9, the article 100 may be inserted into the housing 201 (e.g. in the space 203 when the first part 204 is in the open position), such that the article 100 is received by the housing 201. Movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 (e.g. the releasing component 202) to release the releasable portion 103. With the releasable portion 103 released, aerosolisable material can flow from the reservoir 103 to cavity 210'. Aerosolisable material in the cavity 210' can flow to the aerosol generating component 104 through the channel 210", e.g. via the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (not shown in Figs. 8 and 9). Aerosol may be generated from the aerosolisable material at the aerosol generating component 105.
When a user inhales on the device 200 (e.g. the mouthpiece), air enters the device 200 at the at least one air inlet aperture 208, flows through the air passage 211 and the aerosol generation chamber 105, and exits the device 200 at the at least one air outlet aperture 209, e.g. via the mouthpiece, into the mouth of the user. Air flowing through the aerosol generation chamber 105 entrains aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 104, and the mixture of air and entrained aerosol flows into the mouth of the user.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; the device 200 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
The system may include any feature or features of any aspect of the present disclosure.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise:

the article 100 comprising: a container 101 comprising a sealed reservoir 103 for aerosolisable material, wherein the sealed reservoir 103 comprises a releasable portion 103, wherein upon release of the releasable portion 103 aerosolisable material can flow out of the reservoir 103;
and an electrical link;
the device 200 comprising: a housing 201 for receiving the article 100; an aerosol generating component 104 for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material; wherein the device is configured to release the releasable portion 103; and
a power source for supplying power to the aerosol generating component 104;
wherein the system is configurable in:
- a disconnected state (or a first state) in which the aerosol generating component 104 (e.g. the at least one electrical contact 114 thereof) is disconnected from the electrical link 116 such that power cannot be supplied to the aerosol generating component 104 by the power source; and
- a connected state (or a second state) in which the aerosol generating component 104 (e.g. the at least one electrical contact 114 thereof) is connected to the electrical link 116 such that power can be supplied to the aerosol generating component 104 by the power source.

The device 200 may comprise the power source.
In this aspect, the aerosol generating component 104 is provided as part of the device 200. The aerosol generating component 104 may be a reusable component of the device 200, and the article 100 may be for a single use. In the absence of the aerosol generating component 104, the article 100 is particularly efficient (in terms of cost and/or simplicity) to manufacture. Moreover, by virtue of the electrical link and the first and second states, the security of the system is improved. An example article 100 and device 200 of the system of this aspect are shown in Figs. 7C and 9. The system may include any feature or features of any aspect of the present disclosure.
In the disconnected state the article 100 may not be received by the housing 201. For example, in the disconnected state the article 100 may not be inserted into a space 203 of the housing 201. In the connected state the article 100 be received by the housing 201. For example, in the connected state the article 100 may be inserted into a space 203 of the housing 201.
In the disconnected state the aerosol generating component 104 and the electrical link 116 may be spaced apart from each other. In the connected state the aerosol generating component 104 and the electrical link 116 may be in contact with each other.
The electrical link 116 may be formed of any suitable electrically conductive material. For example, the electrical link 116 may be formed of copper. The electrical link 116 may comprise one or more components. For example, electrical link 116 may comprise two components for connection to respective parts (e.g. respective ends or sides) of the aerosol generating component.
The system may be movable between the disconnected state and the connected state. That is, the system may be movable from the disconnected state to the connected state, and movable from the connected state to the disconnected state.
Movement of the system from the disconnected state to the connected state may bring the aerosol generating component 104 and the electrical link 116 into contact with each other. Movement of the system from the connected state to the disconnected state may space apart the aerosol generating component 104 and the electrical link 116 from each other.
For example, the system may be configured (e.g. movable) from the disconnected state to the connected state by insertion of the article 100 into the device 200, e.g. such that the article 100 is received by the housing 201. The system may be movable from the connected state to the disconnected state by removal of the article 100 from the device 200, e.g. such that the article 100 is not received by the housing 201.
The system may be configured (e.g. moveable) from the disconnected state to the connected state by movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position (e.g. when the article 100 is received by the housing 201). The system may be configured (e.g. moveable) from the connected state to the disconnected state by movement of the first part 204 from the closed position to the open position (e.g. when the article 100 is received by the housing 201).
The system may be configured (e.g. movable) from the disconnected state to the connected state (or vice versa) by use of a button or any other actuation means (e.g. when the article 100 is received by the housing 201).
Referring to Fig. 9 (which includes any of the features of Fig. 8), the article 100 comprises an electrical link 116 in the form of two, spaced apart components (e.g. formed of copper). When the article 100 is not received by the housing 201, in the disconnected state, the components of the electrical link 116 are disconnected from the aerosol generating component 104 of the device 200. When the article 100 is inserted into the device 200 such that the article 100 is received by the housing 201, the components of the electrical link 116 are located at the position shown in Fig. 9, i.e. at respective ends of the aerosol generating component 100 (the other components of the article 100 are not shown in Fig. 9). In some aspects, with the article 100 received by the housing 201 and the first part 204 in the open position, the electrical components of the electrical link 116 may be connected to the aerosol generating component 104 such that power can be delivered to the aerosol generating component 104 by the power source. In this connected state, the electrical link 116 (e.g. the components thereof) may form an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104 and one or more electrical wires 215 connected to the power source. In some aspects, with the article 100 received by the housing 201 and where the first part 204 is in the open position, the electrical components of the electrical link 116 may adjacent to but disconnected from the aerosol generating component 104 so that power cannot be delivered to the aerosol generating component 104 by the power source. The first part 204 may be moved from the open position to the closed position to bring the components of the electrical link 116 into contact with the aerosol generating component 104 so that power can be delivered to the aerosol generating component 104 by the power source. In this connected state, the electrical link 116 (e.g. the components thereof) may form an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104 and one or more electrical wires 215 connected to the power source.
In the disconnected state an electrical circuit including the aerosol generating component 104 and the power source may be broken (or open) such that power cannot be supplied to the aerosol generating component 104 by the power source. In the connected state the electrical link 116 may complete (or close) an electrical circuit including the aerosol generating component 104 and the power source such that power can be supplied to the aerosol generating component 104 by the power source. In the connected state the electrical link 116 may contact the aerosol generating component 104 and at least one electrical wire 215 to the power source. The dotted lines relating to the electrical link 215 in Fig. 10 indicate the location of the electrical link 215 when the article 100 is received by the housing 201, in the second state.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article 100 comprising: a container 101 forming a first releasable barrier 102 and a reservoir 103 for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component 104 for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material, wherein the container 101 is movable from a first position to a second position.
Providing a container that is movable from a first position to a second position facilitates the provision of an article 100 that can perform a particular function in each respective position, thereby improving the versatility of the article 100.
Example articles according to this aspect are shown in Figs. 10A to 11B.
The container 101 may be foldable and/or rollable and/or twistable from the first position to the second position. In Figs. 10A to 11B, the, the container is foldable from the first position (Figs. 10A and 11A) to the second position (Figs. 10B and 11B). The first position may be referred to as an open position. The second position may be referred to as a closed position.
The container 101 may be provided in various forms. The container 101 may be formed of a sheet material. The container 101 may be flexible. The container 101 may comprise or be formed of a film. The container 101 may be integrally formed. The container 101 may include any feature or features of any container 101 described herein. The container 101 may comprise or be formed of one or more polymers and/or one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics).
The one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics) may be selected from polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl acetate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
The one or more polymers may be selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and/or polyethylene terephthalate. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
The container 101 may comprise a fold line 101" about which the container is foldable. The container 101 may comprise container portions 101' connected at the fold line 101". The container 101 may be foldable so as to provide overlapping container portions 101' (e.g. at least two or a pair thereof) connected at the fold line 101".
As shown in Figs. 10B and 11B, in the second position the container 101 may form (or define) an aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the container 101 may form respective parts of the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' may form the aerosol generation chamber 105, e.g. in the second position. For example, one of the respective parts may be formed by one of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' and the other of the respective parts may be formed by the other of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101'. When the container 101 is folded from the first position to the second position, the (e.g. overlapping) portions 101' may be brought together thereby to form the aerosol generation chamber 105.
As shown in Figs. 10B and 11B, in the second position the container 101 may form (or define) an air passageway 106. In this way, in use, air may flow through the air passageway 106 and entrain aerosol for inhalation by the user. As such, the container 101 facilitates the dual functions of preventing (or permitting) communication of aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104, and preventing (or permitting) communication of air flow to the aerosol generating component 104 so as to entrain generated aerosol in use. Using a single container 101 to perform multiple functions increases the reliability of the article 100 relative to an article comprising multiple separate components for carrying out such functions, and may improve manufacturing efficiency and space/size efficiency (e.g. compactness).
The air passageway 106 may extend through the aerosol generation chamber 105. The air passageway 106 may extend between an air inlet opening 107 and an air outlet opening 108. The air inlet opening 107 may be upstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. The air outlet opening 108 may be downstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105.
For example, the container 101 may form respective parts of the air passageway 106. The (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' may form the air passageway 106, e.g. in the second position. One of the respective parts may be formed by one of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' and the other of the respective parts may be formed by the other of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101'. When the container 101 is folded from the first position to the second position, the (e.g. overlapping) portions 101' may be brought together thereby to form the air passageway 106.
For example, the container 101 may form (or define) respective parts of the air inlet opening 107. The (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' may form the air inlet opening 107, e.g. in the second position. One of the respective parts may be formed by one of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' and the other of the respective parts may be formed by the other of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101'. Thus, when the container 101 is folded from the first position to the second position, the (e.g. overlapping) portions 101' may be brought together thereby to form the air inlet opening 107.
For example, the container 101 may form (or define) respective parts of the air outlet opening 108. The (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' may form the air outlet opening 108, e.g. in the second position. One of the respective parts may be formed by one of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' and the other of the respective parts may be formed by the other of the (e.g. overlapping) container portions 101'. Thus, when the container 101 is folded from the first position to the second position, the (e.g. overlapping) portions 101' may be brought together thereby to form the air outlet opening 108.
The air inlet opening 107 may be upstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. The air outlet opening 108 may be downstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. In such arrangements, it has been found that a reduced amount of condensate is formed in use relative to articles in which the air inlet opening is provided on a wall of the aerosol generation chamber 105. This results in improvements in efficiency and performance. For example, by reducing the amount of condensate in the aerosol generation chamber 105 in use, the aerosol generating component 104 has reduced exposure to said condensate which draws heat away from the aerosol generating component 104.
In the second position, the aerosol generating component 104 may be surrounded by the container 101 (e.g. by the wall(s) of the aerosol generation chamber 105).
The air passageway 106 may bypass the reservoir 103.
The container 101 comprises the reservoir 103. The reservoir 103 may be sealed. For example, the reservoir 102 may be sealed by the first releasable barrier 102. The container 101 may form (or define) the reservoir 103. A (e.g. one of the, e.g. overlapping) container portions 101' may form (or define) the reservoir.
The container 101 may comprise or form a retaining feature 115 for retaining the aerosol generating component 104. The moulded part 101A may comprise or form (or define) the retaining feature 115.
The retaining feature 115 may be provided in the aerosol generation chamber 105.
By retaining the aerosol generating component 104 in a particular position, the aerosol generating component 104 is less prone to displacement and therefore exhibits more consistent performance throughout the lifetime of the article 100. Moreover, by forming the retaining feature 115 of the container 101, the durability of the article 100 is improved. For example, the durability of the article 100 may be improved relative to an article in which a retaining feature is formed separately from a container.
The retaining feature 115 may be provided in various different forms. For example, the retaining feature 115 may comprise at least one ridge and/or at least one groove. For example, the retaining feature 115 may comprise at least one portion of increased rigidity and/or mechanical strength (e.g. relative to an adjacent portion of the container 100).
The retaining feature 115 may be for resiliently retaining the aerosol generating component 104. The retaining feature 115 may grip the aerosol generating component 104.
The retaining feature 115 may be for retaining the aerosol generating component 104 in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (as in, for example, Figs. 1A to 4A and 5). The retaining feature 115 may bias the aerosol generating component 104 against the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The retaining feature 115 may suspend the aerosol generating component 104 and/or the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 in the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the retaining feature 115 may suspend the aerosol generating component 104 in the aerosol generation chamber 105 such that the aerosol generating component 104 is spaced apart from the wall or walls of the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The retaining feature 115 may also be for retaining the aerosol generating component 104 in contact with at least one electrode 207, e.g. of the device 200. This provides for a more stable electrical connection between the article 100 and the device 200 and thus more stable performance. The retaining feature 115 may bias the aerosol generating component 104 against the at least one electrode 207.
The article 100 may comprise an aerosolisable material transfer component 110 for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104, e.g. in the second position. For example, the transferring may be upon release of the first releasable barrier 102.
The transferring may be passive. That is, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104 in the second position in the absence of a power source effecting the transfer. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a flow gradient. The flow gradient may cause aerosolisable material to flow in a particular direction in the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have an upstream portion and a downstream portion. The flow gradient may be such that aerosolisable material flows from the upstream portion to the downstream portion. The downstream portion may be arranged towards or in contact with the aerosol generating component.
The flow gradient may cause passive flow of aerosolisable material. For example, the flow gradient may cause capillary flow of aerosolisable material.
The flow gradient may be provided in various ways. For example, the flow gradient may be provided by compression (e.g. by movement of the container 101 from the first position to the second position) of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (or a portion thereof). For example, the downstream portion may have a smaller average pore size than the upstream portion. For example, the downstream portion may be more compressed than the upstream portion (e.g. to provide the variation in average pore size). It will be appreciated that aerosolisable material may tend to flow towards areas of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 having a reduced average pore size.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a capillary structure. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a porous structure (e.g. a porous capillary structure). The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be a wick (e.g. a capillary wick).
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may at least partially arranged in the reservoir 103. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend towards or to the aerosol generating component 104 in the second position. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be at least partially arranged in the aerosol generation chamber 105 in the second position. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the reservoir 103 to or towards the aerosol generating component 104 in the second position. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generation chamber 105 in the second position.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be arranged on the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 in the second position. For example, the aerosol generating component 104 may be arranged in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 in the second position.
The article 100 may comprise at least one securing element for securing the aerosol generating component 104 to the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 in the second position. The at least one securing element may be provided in various forms. The at least one securing element may be a clip or latch. For example, the at least one securing element 104 may be formed by the aerosol generating component 104. Various forms are envisaged. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be provided in various forms. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a longitudinal extent. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be in the form of a strip. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be substantially flat.
The article 100 may comprise a mouthpiece. For example, the container 101 may form a mouthpiece.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be provided in various forms.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be substantially planar. For example, the aerosol generating component 104 may be formed of an electrically conductive material.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be an induction heating element. By use of an induction heating element, manufacture of the article 100 is simplified. In this regard, the article 100 can be used in a device in the absence of electrodes of the device projecting through the container 101 and forming an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component 104. Moreover, in the absence of such electrodes, there is a reduced risk of leakage of aerosolisable material into the device 200 during use. The induction heating element may comprise a susceptor. The device 200 may include an induction coil.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be a convection heating element. The convection heating element may be provided at a variety of different locations in the container 101, which allows for flexibility in design. The convection heating element may comprise a heater and a fan arranged to direct heated air from the heater (e.g. towards the air outlet opening 108).
The aerosol generating component 104 may comprise at least one electrical contact 114. The at least one electrical contact 114 may project through the container 101, e.g. an overlapping portion 101'.
In the first position the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosol generating material transfer component 110 may be spaced apart from each other (e.g. as shown in Figs. 10A and 11A). In the second position, the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosol generating material transfer component 110 may be in contact with each other (e.g. as shown in Figs. 10B and 11B). For example, the container 101 may be configured such that movement from the first position to the second position brings the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosol generating material transfer component 110 into contact with each other.
By virtue of the first and second positions, the article 100 may for use in particular devices 200, such that security is improved. Furthermore, the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (and the aerosolisable material) may be separated from each other until use (e.g. the second position). This helps to preserve the respective components and/or prevent degradation thereof. Furthermore, the article 100 is efficient (in terms of cost and simplicity) to manufacture.
The first releasable barrier 102 may include any feature or features of any first releasable barrier 102 described herein.
The first releasable barrier 102 may prevent fluid communication from the reservoir 103 to a location outside of the reservoir. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be for preventing aerosolisable material from flowing out of the reservoir 103. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be for preventing fluid communication from the reservoir 103 to at least a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 arranged outside of (e.g. downstream from) the reservoir 103.
Upon release of the first releasable barrier 102, aerosolisable material can flow from the reservoir 103 to a portion of the aerosol aerosolisable material transfer component 110 arranged outside of (e.g. downstream from) the reservoir 103. For example, upon release of the first releasable barrier 102, aerosolisable material can flow from the reservoir 103 to a portion of the aerosol aerosolisable material transfer component 110 arranged in contact with the aerosol generating component 104 in the second position.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be arranged partially within the reservoir 103 and partially externally of (and downstream from) the reservoir 103.
The first releasable barrier 102 may be released in various ways. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be released by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing. A movement of the device 200 may cause the release of the first releasable barrier 102. For example, a movement of the device 200 may move the container 101 from the first position to the second position to cause the release of the first releasable barrier 102.
Moving (e.g. folding) the container 101 from the first position (Figs. 10A and 11A) to the second position (Figs. 10B and 11B), may release the first releasable barrier 102 (e.g. by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier 102) and bring the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 into contact with each other. In this way, aerosolisable material can flow downstream, from the reservoir 103 to a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 arranged in contact with the aerosol generating component 104.
The container 101 may form the first releasable barrier 102. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in various forms. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may comprise at least one ridge. Other forms are envisaged.
The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in various locations. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided downstream of the reservoir 103. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided between the reservoir 103 and a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 arranged outside of (e.g. downstream from) the reservoir 103. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided between the reservoir 103 and a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 arranged in contact with the aerosol generating component 104 in the second position. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided at the fold line 101" of the container 101.
The article 100 may comprise an aerosolisable material storage component 111. The aerosolisable material storage component 111 may be arranged in the reservoir 103. The aerosolisable material storage component 111 may include any feature or features of any aerosolisable material storage component 111 described herein. In some aspects, the article 100 does not comprise a storage component 111.
The container 101 may be configured such that movement from the first position to the second position compresses a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 and/or the aerosolisable material storage component 111. Such compression may increase the propensity of aerosolisable material to flow towards the compressed portion (e.g. by reducing pore size where the storage component 111 is porous). In this way, movement to the second position may cause aerosolisable material to preferentially flow in a particular direction.
The compressed portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be arranged proximal (or adjacent) to the aerosol generating component 104. Thus, in the second position, aerosolisable material may preferentially flow to or towards the aerosol generating component 104.
The compressed portion of the storage component 111 may be arranged proximal (or adjacent) to the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. Thus, in the second position, aerosolisable material may preferentially flow to or towards the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The container 101 may be configured such that movement from the second position to the first position renders the article 100 inoperable. For example, the container 101 may be configured such that movement from the second position to the first position breaks the aerosol generating component 104 and/or the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. Such features improve the security of the article 100 and/or prevent reuse of the article 100.
The article 100 may comprise a retention element (not shown) for retaining the container 101 in the second positon. The retention element may be a clip, a snap, a latch, or a hook (for example). Movement from the first position to the second position may secure the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 to each other via the retention element.
As described herein, the container 101 may be foldable from the first position to the second position, and may comprise a fold line 101" about which the container 101 is foldable.
In the second position, the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be sandwiched between the overlapping container portions 101'. Referring to Figs. 10B and 11B, in the second position the container 101 has a folded end (F) and an open end (O). The folded end may be upstream of the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. The open end may be downstream of the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.The folded end may be downstream of the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. The open end may be upstream of the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
In the second position, the air outlet opening 108 may be formed at or towards the folded end. Such a configuration helps to trap condensation within the article 100 in use.
In the second position, the air passageway 106 may bypass the at least one electrical contact 114 of the aerosol generating component 110. For example, in the second position, the at least one electrical contact 114 may project through the container 101 (e.g. the overlapping portion 101'), distal the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (see Figs. 10B and 11B). In this way, the electrical contact(s) 114 are subjected to reduced exposure to condensation in use, relative to aspects in which the electrical contact(s) 114 are arranged in the air passageway 106. Such arrangements improve the performance of the article 100 as a more reliable electrical connection can be formed.
It is to be understood that the container 101 may include one or more seals (not shown) for reducing inadvertent airflow from the air passageway 106 and/or the aerosol generation chamber 105 in use.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a device 200 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device 200 comprising: a housing 201 for receiving the article 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; wherein the device 200 is configured to release the first releasable barrier 102.
The housing 201 may comprise a space 203 for receiving the article 100. When the article 100 is received by the housing 201, the article 100 may be partially within the housing 201 or completely within the housing 201. For example, a mouthpiece formed by the article 100 (or container 101) may extend out of the housing 201.
The housing 201 may be formed of a first part 204 and a second part 205. The first part 204 may be moveable between a closed position in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 together define an enclosed space 203 for at least part of the article 100 to be located (e.g. for aerosol generation), and an open position in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 are spaced apart from each other such that the space 203 is accessible.
When the article 100 is received by the housing 201, movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may move the container 101 from the first position to the second position and thereby release the first releasable barrier 102. For example, said movement may break, rupture, puncture, and/or pierce the first releasable barrier 102.
The first part 204 may be slidably and/or rotatably moveable relative to the second part 205. The first part 204 may be connected to the second part 205 in the open position and the closed position.
The device 200 may comprise at least one electrode 207 for forming an electrical connection with the at least one electrical contact 114 of the aerosol generating component 104. The at least one electrode 207 may be retained by the housing 201. The at least one electrode 207 may be provided on the first part 204 or the second part 205.
The device 200 may comprise at least one air inlet aperture 208 and at least one air outlet aperture 209. The at least one air inlet aperture 208 may be formed by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 and/or the second part 205). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 and/or the second part 205). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed as a mouthpiece.
In use of the device 200, the article 100 may be inserted into the housing 201 (e.g. in the space 203, e.g. when the first part 204 is in the open position), such that the article 100 is received by the housing 201. Movement of the first part 205 from the open position to the closed position may move the container from the first position to the second position and thereby release the first releasable barrier 102. With the first releasable barrier 102 released, aerosolisable material can flow from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104, e.g. via the aerosol generating material transfer component 110, in the second position.
When a user inhales on the device 200 (e.g. the mouthpiece), air enters the device 200 at the air inlet aperture 212, flows through the air inlet opening 107, the air passageway 106 and the aerosol generation chamber 105, the air outlet opening 108, and the air outlet aperture 213 via e.g. the mouthpiece, into the mouth of the user. Air flowing through the aerosol generation chamber 105 entrains aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 104, and the mixture of air and entrained aerosol flows into the mouth of the user.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: an article 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; a device 200 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising:

an article 100 comprising: a container 101 comprising a reservoir 103 for aerosolisable material, and a first releasable barrier 102 sealing the reservoir 103 (and/or for preventing aerosolisable material from flowing out of the reservoir 103); and
a device 200 comprising: a housing 201 for receiving the article 100; an aerosol generating component 104 for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material; wherein the device 200 is configured to release the first releasable barrier 102, and wherein the device 200 is configured to provide (or form) at least one air outlet opening 108 in the container 101.

An example article 100 and device 200 of the system of this aspect are shown in Figs. 12A to 12C.
The system (e.g. the article 100 and/or the device 200) may include any feature or features of any aspect of the present disclosure.
The container 101 may be provided in various ways. For example, the container 101 may comprise or be formed of one or more polymers and/or one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics).
The container 101 may comprise a moulded part 101A. The container 101 may comprise a seal part 101B. The seal part 101B may cover the moulded part 101A. For example, the seal part 101B may be sealed to the moulded part 101A. The seal part 101B may be sealed around the periphery of the moulded part 101A. The moulded part 101A may comprise a sealing surface 101A'. The sealing surface 101A' may be substantially planar. The moulded part 101A may comprise at least one recess 101A". The seal part 101B may be sealed to the sealing surface 101A'. The seal part 101B may seal the or each recess 101A".
The moulded part 101A may be a moulded plastic part. The moulded part 101A may be formed as a tray and/or base. The moulded part 101A may be rigid relative to the seal part 101B. The moulded plastic part 101A may comprise or be formed of one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics).
The seal part 101B may be formed of a sheet material. The seal part 101B may be substantially planar. The seal part 101B may be flexible. The seal part 101B may comprise or be formed of a film. For example, the seal part 101B may be formed of a substantially planar flexible sheet material and/or formed of a film. The seal part 101B may be formed of or comprise one or more polymers.
The one or more plastics (e.g. one or more thermoplastics) may be selected from polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl acetate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
The one or more polymers may be selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and/or polyethylene terephthalate. The polyethylene may be selected from low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and/or high density polyethylene.
The container 101 may form (or define) the reservoir 102. The moulded part 101A may at least partially define the reservoir 103. The moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the reservoir 103. A recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A may at least partially define the reservoir 102. For example, a recess 101A" of the moulded part 101A and the seal part 101B may define the reservoir 102.
The container 101 may comprise an aerosol generation chamber 105. The container 101 may form (or define) the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The container 101 may comprise an air passageway 106. In use, air may flow through the air passageway 106 and entrain aerosol for inhalation by the user.
The container 101 may form (or define) the air passageway 106. The moulded part 101A may at least partially define the air passageway 106. The air passageway 106 may extend from at least one air inlet opening 107 (which may be releasably sealed). The air passageway 106 may extend to the at least one air outlet opening 108 (once formed). The air passageway 106 may extend from the at least one air inlet opening 107 to the at least one air outlet opening 108 (once the latter is formed). The air passageway 106 may bypass the reservoir 103.
The at least one air inlet opening 107 may be upstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. The at least one air outlet opening 108 may be downstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. In such arrangements, it has been found that a reduced amount of condensate is formed in use relative to articles in which the air inlet opening is provided on a wall of the aerosol generation chamber 105. This results in improvements in efficiency and performance. For example, by reducing the amount of condensate in the aerosol generation chamber 105 in use, the aerosol generating component 104 has reduced exposure to said condensate which draws heat away from the aerosol generating component 104.
The first releasable barrier 102 seals the reservoir 103. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be for preventing aerosolisable material from flowing out of the reservoir.
Upon release of the first releasable barrier 102, aerosolisable material may flow from the reservoir to or towards the aerosol generating component 104, e.g. via the aerosolisable material transfer component 110, e.g. when the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 are arranged in contact with each other.
The first releasable barrier 102 may be released in various ways. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be released by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may be released by a device 200 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. For example, insertion of the article 100 into the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the first releasable barrier 102. For example, a movement of the device 200 may cause the device 200 to release the first releasable barrier 102.
The container 101 may form the first releasable barrier 102. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in various forms. For example, the first releasable barrier 102 may comprise at least one ridge. Other forms are envisaged. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided in various locations. The first releasable barrier 102 is provided in the container 101. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided downstream of the reservoir 103. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided upstream of the aerosol generating component 104. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided upstream of the aerosol generation chamber 105. The first releasable barrier 102 may be provided between the reservoir 103 and the aerosol generating component 104.
The article 100 may comprise an aerosolisable material transfer component 110 for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104. For example, the transferring may be upon release of the first releasable barrier 102, e.g. when the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 are arranged in contact with each other. The transferring may be passive. That is, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generating component 104 in the absence of a power source effecting the transfer.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a flow gradient. The flow gradient may cause aerosolisable material to flow in a particular direction in the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have an upstream portion and a downstream portion. The flow gradient may be such that aerosolisable material flows from the upstream portion to the downstream portion. The downstream portion may be arranged towards or in contact with the aerosol generating component.
The flow gradient may cause passive flow of aerosolisable material. For example, the flow gradient may cause capillary flow of aerosolisable material.
The flow gradient may be provided in various ways. For example, the flow gradient may be provided by compression of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (or a portion thereof). For example, the downstream portion may have a smaller average pore size than the upstream portion. For example, the downstream portion may be more compressed than the upstream portion (e.g. to provide the variation in average pore size). It will be appreciated that aerosolisable material may tend to flow towards areas of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 having a reduced average pore size.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a capillary structure. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a porous structure (e.g. a porous capillary structure). The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be a wick (e.g. a capillary wick). For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise cotton (although other materials are envisaged).
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be provided in various forms. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a longitudinal extent. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be in the form of a strip. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be substantially flat.
The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may at least partially arranged in the reservoir 103. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the reservoir 103. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may be at least partially arranged in the aerosol generation chamber 105. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may form an interface between the inside of the container 101 and the outside of the container 101. The aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend to the aerosol generation chamber 105. For example, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may extend from the reservoir 103 to the aerosol generation chamber 105.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be provided in various forms.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be substantially planar. The aerosol generating component 104 may be formed of an electrically conductive material.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be an induction heating element. The induction heating element may comprise a susceptor. The device 200 may include an induction coil.
The aerosol generating component 104 may be a convection heating element. The convection heating element may be provided at a variety of different locations in the container 101. The convection heating element may comprise a heater and a fan arranged to direct heated air from the heater (e.g. towards the at least one air outlet opening 108).
The aerosol generating component 104 may comprise at least one electrical contact 114.
The device 200 may be configured to release the first releasable barrier 102. The device 200 may release said the first releasable barrier 102 in various ways. For example, the device 200 may comprise a releasing component 202 for releasing the first releasable barrier 102. The device 200 (e.g. the releasing component 202) may be for breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier 102.
The releasing component 202 may be provided in various forms. For example, the releasing component 202 may comprise at least one projection. The at least one projection may comprise at least one point and/or at least one blade. Other forms are envisaged.
The housing 201 may comprise (or form or define) a space 203 for receiving the article 100. When the article 100 is received by the housing 201, the article 100 may be partially within the housing 201 or completely within the housing 201. For example, a mouthpiece formed by the article 100 (or container 101) may extend out of the housing 201.
The housing 201 may be formed of a first part 204 and a second part 205. The first part 204 may be moveable between a closed position in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 together define an enclosed space 203 for at least part of the article 100 to be located (e.g. for aerosol generation), and an open position in which the first part 204 and the second part 205 are spaced apart from each other such that the space 203 is accessible.
Movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 (e.g. the releasing component 202) to release the first releasable barrier 102.
The releasing component 202 may be provided in various locations. The releasing component 202 may be provided on or by the first part 204 and/or the second part 205. For example, the releasing component may be provided on the first part 204 or the second part 205.
The first part 204 may be slidably and/or rotatably moveable relative to the second part 205. The first part 204 may be connected to the second part 205 in the open position and the closed position.
In some aspects, the device 200 may comprise actuation means for causing the releasing component 202 to release the first releasable barrier 102. The actuation means may be provided in various forms. For example, the actuation means may be a button or a switch. In such aspects, the releasing component 202 may be, for example, spring-loaded. Other forms are envisaged.
The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may comprise an air passage 211. The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may form (or define) the air passage 211. For example, the first part 204 and/or the second part 205 may define the air passage 211 in the closed position.
The device 200 (e.g. the housing 201) may comprise at least one air inlet aperture 208 and at least one air outlet aperture 209. The air passage 211 may extend between the at least one air inlet aperture 208 and the at least one air outlet aperture 209. The at least one air inlet aperture 208 may be formed (or defined) by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 or the second part 205, e.g. in the closed position). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed (or defined) by the housing 201 (e.g. by the first part 204 or the second part 205, e.g. in the closed position). The at least one air outlet aperture 209 may be formed as a mouthpiece.
The device 200 may be configured to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108 in the container 101 in various ways. The device 200 may be configured to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108 in the container 101 by breaking and/or rupturing and/or piercing and/or puncturing the container 101. For example, the device 200 may include a releasing (e.g. piercing and/or puncturing) element 214. The device 200 may be configured to urge the container 101 against the releasing element 214 thereby to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108. The device 200 may be configured to urge the aerosol generating component 104 against the container 101 and thereby the container 101 against the releasing element 214 to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108.
The device 200 may comprise an actuator 216 for urging the container 101 and/or for urging the aerosol generating component 104. The actuator 216 may be provided in various locations and in various forms. The actuator 216 may be provided on the first part 204 or the second part 205. The actuator 216 may include a biasing element, such as a spring. The actuator 216 may be moveable between a retracted state and an extended state.
The actuator 216 may be for urging the container 101 against the releasing element 214 thereby to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108. The actuator 216 may be for urging the aerosol generating component 104 against the container 101 and thereby the container 101 against the releasing element 214 to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108.
The device 200 may be configured to urge the aerosol generating component 104 against the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 and thereby (e.g. in tandem) the container 101 against the releasing element 214 to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108. The actuator 216 may be for urging the aerosol generating component 104 against the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 and thereby (e.g. in tandem) the container 101 against the releasing element 214 to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108. This arrangement is shown in Figs. 12A to 12C.
As discussed above, the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may have a flow gradient. The flow gradient may be provided by compression of the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 (or a portion thereof). For example, the compression may be provided by urging of the aerosol generating component 104 against the aerosolisable material transfer component 110.
The releasing element 214 may be a piercing element, a puncturing element, a breaking element, and/or a rupturing element. In Figs. 12A to 12C, the releasing element 214 is a piercing and/or puncturing element. The releasing element 214 may be a pin.
Referring to Figs. 12A to 12C, the device 200 may be configurable in a primary state, a secondary state, and/or a tertiary state. The actuator 216 may be configured to move the device 200 between the primary state, the secondary state, and the tertiary state.
As shown in Fig. 12A, in the primary state the aerosol generating component 104 may be spaced apart from the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. The primary state may be considered as a state prior to use of the article. The actuator 216 may be retracted in the primary state.
As shown in Fig. 12B, in the secondary state the aerosol generating component 104 may contact the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 and the releasing (e.g. piercing and/or puncturing) element 214 may extend through a portion of the container 101 to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108 (e.g. the piercing and/or puncturing element 214 may be pierced and/or punctured through a portion of the container 101 to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108). For example, in the secondary state the actuator 216 may urge the aerosol generating component 104 against the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 and thereby (e.g. in tandem) the container 101 against the releasing element 214 such that the releasing element 214 extends (e.g. pierces and/or punctures) through a portion of the container 101 to form the at least one air outlet opening 108. The actuator 216 may be extended in the secondary state.
As shown in Fig. 12C, in the tertiary state the aerosol generating component 104 may contact the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 and the at least one air outlet opening 108 may be formed in the container 101. The actuator 216 may be retracted in the tertiary state.
As shown in Fig. 12A, the device 200 may comprise a releasing component 202 for releasing the releasable barrier 103. In Fig. 12A to 12C, the releasing component 202 is provided on the first part 204.
The aerosol generating component 104 or the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 may comprise a retaining feature for retaining the other of the aerosol generating component 104 and the aerosolisable material transfer component 110, e.g. upon contact therebetween. The retaining feature may comprise a hook, a latch, or an adhesive. Other forms are envisaged.
In use, the article 100 may be inserted into the device 200 such that the article 100 is received by the housing 201, e.g. when the first part 204 is in the open position. When the article 100 is received by the housing 201, the article 100 may be partially within the housing 201 or completely within the housing 201. For example, a mouthpiece formed by the article 100 (or container 101) may extend out of the housing 201. The first part 204 may be moved from the open position to the closed position. Movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the device 200 to release the first releasable barrier 102 and may cause the device to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108 in the container 101. For example, movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the releasing component 202 to release the first releasable barrier 102 and may cause the releasing (e.g. piercing and/or puncturing) element 214 to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108 in the container 101. For example, movement of the first part 204 from the open position to the closed position may cause the releasing component 202 to release the first frangible barrier 102 and may cause the actuator 216 to move the device from the primary state to the secondary state to the tertiary state to provide the at least one air outlet opening 108. With the first frangible barrier 102 released, aerosolisable material can flow from the reservoir to the aerosolisable material transfer component 110. With the aerosol generating component 104 in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component 110 and the at least one air outlet opening 108 formed, aerosol can be formed from aerosolisable material at the aerosol generating component 104 and can exit the container 101 via the at least one air outlet opening 108.
When a user inhales on the device 200 (e.g. air outlet aperture 209 formed as a mouthpiece), air enters the device 200 at the air inlet aperture 208, flows through the air at least one inlet opening 107, the air passageway via the aerosol generation chamber 105, the at least one air outlet opening 108, and the air outlet aperture 209, into the mouth of the user. Air flowing through the aerosol generation chamber 105 entrains aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 104, and the mixture of air and entrained aerosol flows into the mouth of the user.
In any aspect herein, the aerosolisable material may be a liquid aerosolisable material.
In any aspect herein, the article 100 may comprise a pressure balance device. The pressure balance device may be configured such that: in response to a change in pressure from atmospheric pressure to a first pressure, any aerosol generating material in the reservoir flows from the reservoir 103 to the pressure balance device; and in response to a change in pressure from the first pressure to atmospheric pressure, any aerosolisable material in the pressure balance device flows from the pressure balance device to the reservoir 103. The first pressure may be less than atmospheric pressure. For example, the first pressure may be no greater than 95% of atmospheric pressure. For example, the first pressure may be no greater than 90% of atmospheric pressure. For example, the first pressure may be no greater than 85% of atmospheric pressure.
In any aspect herein, "sealed" may mean "hermetically sealed".
In any aspect herein, the container 101 may be formed of a plurality of layers. Each layer may be individually selected from a polymer, a plant-based material, a biomass-based material, and a metal-containing material.
According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided:

Clause A1. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a sealed container comprising a first releasable barrier and a reservoir for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material, wherein the first releasable barrier prevents fluid communication between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component.
Clause A2. The article according to clause A1, wherein the first releasable barrier is released by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing.
Clause A3. The article according to clause A1 or A2, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
Clause A4. The article according to clause A3, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a capillary structure.
Clause A5. The article according to clause A3 or A4, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged on the aerosolisable material transfer component.
Clause A6. The article according to clause A3 or A4, wherein the aerosol generating component comprises at least one securing element for securing the aerosol generating component to the aerosolisable material transfer component.
Clause A7. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A6, wherein the sealed container comprises an aerosol generation chamber, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause A8. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A7, wherein the sealed container comprises an air passageway extending from at least one air inlet opening to at least one air outlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air inlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air outlet opening, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the air passageway.
Clause A9. The article according to clause A8 wherein the at least one air inlet opening is upstream of the aerosol generation chamber and the at least one air outlet opening is downstream of the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause A10. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A9, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material storage component arranged at least partially in the reservoir.
Clause A11. The article according to clause A10, wherein the aerosol generating material storage component has a downstream portion and an upstream portion, wherein the aerosol generating material storage component has a flow gradient such that aerosolisable material flows from the upstream portion to the downstream portion.
Clause A12. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A11, wherein the sealed container comprises a moulded part and a seal part, wherein the moulded part and the seal part define the reservoir.
Clause A13. The article according to clause A12, wherein the moulded part is a moulded plastic part, optionally wherein the moulded part is formed of one or more thermoplastics.
Clause A14. The article according to clause A12 or A13, wherein the seal part is formed of a sheet material.
Clause A15. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A14, wherein the aerosol generating component is substantially planar.
Clause A16. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A15, wherein the aerosol generating component is an induction heating element.
Clause A17. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A15, wherein the aerosol generating component is a convection heating element.
Clause A18. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A17 when dependent on clause A7, wherein the sealed container comprises a passage for transferring any condensed aerosolisable material from the aerosol generation chamber to the reservoir.
Clause A19. The article according to clause A18, wherein the sealed container comprises a second releasable barrier which seals the passage.
Clause A20. The article according to any one of clauses A1 to A19, wherein the article comprises a pressure balance device, the pressure balance device being configured such that: in response to a change in pressure from atmospheric pressure to a first pressure, any aerosolisable material in the reservoir flows from the reservoir to the pressure balance device; and in response to a change in pressure from the first pressure to atmospheric pressure, any aerosolisable material in the pressure balance device flows from the pressure balance device to the reservoir.
Clause A21. A device for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device comprising: a housing for receiving the article according to any one of clauses A1 to A20; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier.
Clause A22. The device according to clause A21 when dependent on clause A8 and/orA19, wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier and/or the second releasable barrier and/or the or each releasable portion.
Clause A23. The device according to clause A21 or A22, wherein the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein movement from the open position to the closed position causes the device to release the first releasable barrier.
Clause A24. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article according to any one of clauses A1 to A20; the device according to any one of clauses A21 to A23; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
Clause A25. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause A25, wherein removal of the article from the housing renders the aerosol generating component inoperable.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided:

Clause B1. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a sealed container comprising a first releasable barrier and a reservoir for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material; wherein the first releasable barrier prevents fluid communication between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component, and wherein the sealed container comprises a retaining feature for retaining the aerosol generating component.
Clause B2. The article according to clause B1, wherein the retaining feature is for resiliently retaining the aerosol generating component.
Clause B3. The article according to clause B1 or B2, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
Clause B4. The article according to clause B3, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged on the aerosolisable material transfer component.
Clause B5. The article according to clause B3 or B4, wherein the retaining feature is for retaining the aerosol generating component in contact with the aerosolisable material transfer component.
Clause B6. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B5, wherein the retaining feature is for retaining the aerosol generating component in contact with at least one electrode.
Clause B7. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B6, wherein the retaining feature comprises at least one ridge and/or at least one groove and/or at least one portion of increased rigidity and/or mechanical strength.
Clause B8. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B7, wherein the sealed container comprises an aerosol generation chamber, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause B9. The article according to clause B8 when dependent on clause B2, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component is at least partially arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause B10. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B9, wherein the sealed container comprises an air passageway extending from at least one air inlet opening to at least one air outlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the container seals the at least one air inlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the container seals the at least one air outlet opening, and wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the air passageway.
Clause B11. The article according to clause B10, wherein the air inlet opening is upstream of the aerosol generation chamber and wherein the air outlet opening is downstream of the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause B12. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B11, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material storage component arranged at least partially in the reservoir.
Clause B13. The article according to clause B12, wherein the aerosol generating material storage component has a downstream portion and an upstream portion, wherein the aerosol generating material storage component has a flow gradient such that aerosolisable material flows from the upstream portion to the downstream portion
Clause B14. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B13, wherein the sealed container comprises a moulded part and a seal part.
Clause B15. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B14, wherein the moulded part comprises one or more thermoplastics.
Clause B16. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B15, wherein the seal part is formed of a film.
Clause B17. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B16, wherein the aerosol generating component is an induction heating element or a convection heating element.
Clause B18. The article according to any one of clauses B1 to B17 when dependent on clause B7, wherein the sealed container comprises a passage for transferring any condensed aerosolisable material from the aerosol generation chamber to the reservoir.
Clause B19. The article according to clause B18, wherein the sealed container comprises a second releasable barrier which seals the passage.
Clause B20. A device for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device comprising: a housing for receiving the article according to any one of clauses B1 to B19; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier.
Clause B21. The device according to clause B20 when dependent on clause B10 or B19, wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier and/or the second releasable barrier and/or the or each releasable portion.
Clause B22. The device according to clause B20 or B21, wherein the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein movement from the open position to the closed position causes the device to release the first releasable barrier.
Clause B23. The device according to any one of clauses B20 to B22, wherein the device comprises a releasing component for releasing the first releasable barrier, wherein the releasing component is for breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier.
Clause B24. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article according to any one of clauses B1 to B19; the device according to any one of clauses B20 to B23; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
Clause B25. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause B24, wherein removal of the article from the housing renders the aerosol generating component inoperable.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided:

Clause C1. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a sealed container comprising a first releasable barrier and a reservoir for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material; wherein the releasable frangible barrier prevents fluid communication between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component, wherein the sealed container comprises an air passageway extending from at least one air inlet opening to at least one air outlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air inlet opening and a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air outlet opening, and wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the air passageway.
Clause C2. The article according to clause C1, wherein the air passageway bypasses the reservoir.
Clause C3. The article according to clause C1 or C2, wherein the container comprises an aerosol generation chamber, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause C4. The article according to clause C3, wherein the at least one air inlet opening is upstream of the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause C5. The article according to clause C3 or C4, wherein the at least one air outlet opening is downstream of the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause C6. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C5 when dependent on clause 3, wherein the sealed container comprises a passage for transferring any condensed aerosolisable material from the aerosol generation chamber to the reservoir.
Clause C7. The article according to clause C6, wherein the sealed container comprises a second releasable barrier which seals the passage.
Clause C8. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C7, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for supplying aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
Clause C9. The article according to clause C8, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a capillary structure.
Clause C10. The article according to clause C8 or C9, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged on the aerosolisable material transfer component.
Clause C11. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C10, wherein the reservoir is configured to at least partially collapse in response to aerosolisable material exiting the reservoir.
Clause C12. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C12, wherein the sealed container comprises a moulded part and a seal part.
Clause C13. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C12, wherein the moulded part comprises one or more thermoplastics.
Clause C14. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C13, wherein the seal part is formed of a film.
Clause C15. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C14, wherein the aerosol generating component is substantially planar.
Clause C16. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C15, wherein the aerosol generating component is an induction heating element.
Clause C17. The article according to any one of clauses C1 to C15, wherein the aerosol generating component is a convection heating element.
Clause C18. A device for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device comprising: a housing for receiving the article according to any one of clauses C1 to C17; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier and/or the or each releasable portion.
Clause C19. The device according to any one of clauses C1 to C18 optionally when dependent on clause C7, wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier and/or the second releasable barrier and/or the or each releasable portion.
Clause C20. The device according to clause C18 or C19, wherein the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein movement from the open position to the closed position causes the device to release the first releasable barrier and/or the second releasable barrier and/or the or each releasable portion.
Clause C21. The device according to any one of clauses C18 to C20, wherein the device is for breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing the first releasable barrier and/or the second releasable barrier and/or the or each releasable portion.
Clause C22. The device according to clause C20 or clause C21 when dependent on clause C20, wherein the first part is slidably and/or rotatably moveable relative to the second part.
Clause C23. The device according to any one of clauses C20 to C22 when dependent on clause C20, wherein the first part is connected to the second part in the open position and the closed position.
Clause C24. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article according to any one of clauses C1 to C17; the device according to any one of clauses C18 to C23; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
Clause C25. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause C24, wherein removal of the article from the housing renders the aerosol generating component inoperable.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided:

Clause D1. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a container comprising a sealed reservoir for aerosolisable material, wherein the sealed reservoir comprises a releasable portion, wherein upon release of the releasable portion aerosolisable material can flow out of the reservoir.
Clause D2. The article according to clause D1, wherein the sealed reservoir contains aerosolisable material.
Clause D3. The article according to clause D1 or D2, wherein the container is formed of a film.
Clause D4. The article according to any one of clauses D1 to D3, wherein the container is integrally formed.
Clause D5. The article according to any one of clauses D1 to D4, the article comprising an electrical link for forming an electrical connection with an aerosol generating component.
Clause D6. The article according to clause D5, wherein the electrical link is provided outside of the reservoir.
Clause D7. The article according to any one of clauses D1 to D6, wherein the releasable portion is released by breaking, piercing, puncturing, and/or rupturing.
Clause D8. A device for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device comprising: a housing for receiving the article according to any one of clauses D1 to D7; an aerosol generating component; wherein the device is configured to release the releasable portion.
Clause D9. The device according to clause D8, wherein the housing comprises an aerosol generation chamber, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause D10. The device according to clause D8 or D9, wherein the housing comprises an air passage extending between at least one air inlet aperture and at least one air outlet aperture.
Clause D11. The device according to any one of clauses D8 to D10, wherein the housing comprises a cavity for receiving the sealed reservoir.
Clause D12. The device according to clause D11 when dependent on clause D9, wherein the housing comprises a channel extending from the cavity to the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause D13. The device according to clause D12, wherein the channel is a capillary channel.
Clause D14. The device according to any one of clauses D11 to D13, wherein the device comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component extends from the cavity to the aerosol generating component.
Clause D15. The device according to any one of clause D9 or clauses D10 to D14 when dependent on clause D9, wherein the channel is upstream of the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause D16. The device according to any one of clauses D8 to D15, wherein the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein movement from the open position to the closed position causes the device to release the releasable portion.
Clause D17. The device according to any one of clauses D8 to D16, wherein the aerosol generating component is an induction heating element.
Clause D18. The device according to any one of clauses D8 to D16, wherein the aerosol generating component is a convection heating element.
Clause D19. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article according to any one of clauses D1 to D7; and the device according to any one of clauses D8 to D18; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
Clause D20. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause D19, wherein the article is configured such that removal of the article from the housing renders the aerosol generating component inoperable.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided:

Clause E1. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a container comprising a first releasable barrier and a reservoir for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material, wherein the container is movable from a first position to a second position.
Clause E2. The article according to clause E1, wherein the container is foldable and/or rollable and/or twistable from the first position to the second position.
Clause E3. The article according to clause E1 or E2, wherein the container is configured such that movement from the first position to the second position releases the first releasable barrier.
Clause E4. The article according to any one of clauses E1 to E3, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
Clause E5. The article according to clause E4, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a capillary structure.
Clause E6. The article according to clause E4 or E5, wherein in the first position the aerosol generating component and the aerosolisable material transfer component are spaced apart from each other, and in the second position the aerosol generating component and the aerosolisable material transfer component are in contact with each other.
Clause E7. The article according to any one of clauses E4 to E6, wherein the first releasable barrier prevents fluid communication from the reservoir to at least a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component arranged externally of the reservoir.
Clause E8. The article according to clause E6 or E7 when dependent on clause E6, wherein upon release of the first releasable barrier, aerosolisable material can flow from the reservoir to a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component arranged in contact with the aerosol generating component in the second position.
Clause E9. The article according to any preceding clause when dependent on clause E4, wherein the container is configured such that movement from the first position to the second position compresses a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component such that aerosolisable material flows from the reservoir towards the compressed portion.
Clause E10. The article according to any preceding clause when dependent on clause E4, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component extends from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
Clause E11. The article according to any one of clauses E1 to E10, wherein the container is configured such that the movement from the second position to the first position renders at least part of the article inoperable.
Clause E12. The article according to any one of clauses E1 to E11, wherein the article comprises at least one retention element for retaining the container in the second position.
Clause E13. The article according to any one of clauses E1 to E12 when dependent on clause E4, wherein in the second position the aerosol generating component and the aerosolisable material transfer component are surrounded by the container.
Clause E14. The article according to clause E13, wherein in the second position the container forms at least one air passageway extending from an air inlet opening to an air outlet opening.
Clause E15. The article according to clause E14, wherein in the second position the air passageway bypasses at least one electrical contact of the aerosol generating component.
Clause E16. The article according to clause E14 or E15, wherein in the second position the air outlet opening is formed as a mouthpiece.
Clause E17. The article according to any one of clauses E1 to E16, wherein the container is formed of a sheet material.
Clause E18. The article according to any one of clauses E1 to E17, wherein the container comprises a fold line about which the article is foldable from the first position to the second positon.
Clause E19. The article according to any one of clauses E1 to E18, wherein the container is integrally formed.
Clause E20. A device for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device comprising: a housing for receiving the article according to any one of clauses E1 to E19; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier.
Clause E21. The device according to clause E20, wherein the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein when the article is received by the housing, movement from the open position to the closed position moves the container from the first position to the second position and thereby releases the first releasable barrier.
Clause E22. The device according to clause E21, wherein the first part is slidably and/or rotatably moveable relative to the second part.
Clause E23. The device according to any one of clauses E20 to E22, wherein the device comprises at least one electrode for forming an electrical connection with the aerosol generating component.
Clause E24. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article according to any one of clauses E1 to E17; the device according to any one of clauses E20 to E23; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
Clause E25. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause E24, wherein removal of the article from the housing renders the aerosol generating component inoperable.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided:

Clause F1. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising:
- an article comprising: a container comprising a sealed reservoir for aerosolisable material,
- wherein the sealed reservoir comprises a releasable portion, wherein upon release of the releasable portion aerosolisable material can flow out of the reservoir; and an electrical link;
- a device comprising: a housing for receiving the article; an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material; wherein the device is configured to release the releasable portion; and
- a power source for supplying power to the aerosol generating component;
- wherein the system is configurable in:
  - a disconnected state in which the aerosol generating component is disconnected from the electrical link such that power cannot be supplied to the aerosol generating component by the power source; and
  - a connected state in which the aerosol generating component is connected to the electrical link such that power can be supplied to the aerosol generating component by the power source.
Clause F2. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause F1, wherein in the disconnected state the aerosol generating component and the electrical link are spaced apart from each other, and in the connected state the aerosol generating component and the electrical link are in contact with each other.
Clause F3. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause F1 or F2, wherein the system is moveable from the disconnected state to the connected state by insertion of the article into the device, such that the article is received by the housing.
Clause F4. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F3, wherein movement from the disconnected state to the connected state brings the aerosol generating component and the electrical link into contact with each other.
Clause F5. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F4, wherein movement from the connected state to the disconnected state spaces apart the aerosol generating component and the electrical link from each other.
Clause F6. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F5, wherein the housing comprises an air passage extending between an air inlet aperture and an air outlet aperture.
Clause F7. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F6, wherein the housing comprises an aerosol generation chamber, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause F8. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F7, wherein the housing comprises a cavity for receiving the reservoir.
Clause F9. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause F8 when dependent on clause F7, wherein the housing comprises a channel extending from the cavity to the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause F10. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause F9, wherein the channel is a capillary channel.
Clause F11. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any preceding clause when dependent on clauses F7 and F9, wherein the channel is upstream of the aerosol generation chamber.
Clause F12. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F11, wherein the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein movement from the open position to the closed position causes the device to release the releasable portion.
Clause F13. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause F12, wherein the system is moveable from the disconnected state to the connected state by movement of the first part from the open position to the closed position.
Clause F14. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F13, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for supplying aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
Clause F15. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause F14, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a capillary structure.
Clause F16. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause F14 or F15 when dependent on clause F9, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component is provided in the channel.
Clause F17. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F16, wherein the aerosol generating component is substantially planar.
Clause F18. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F17, wherein the container is formed of a sheet material.
Clause F19. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F18, wherein the container is integrally formed.
Clause F20. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses F1 to F19, wherein the article is configured such that removal of the article from the housing renders the aerosol generating component inoperable.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided:

Clause G1. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising:
- an article comprising: a container comprising a reservoir for aerosolisable material, and a first releasable barrier sealing the reservoir; and
- a device comprising: a housing for receiving the article; an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier, and wherein the device is configured to provide at least one air outlet opening in the container.
Clause G2. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause G1, wherein the device comprises a releasing element, wherein the device is configured to urge the container against the releasing element thereby to provide the at least one air outlet opening.
Clause G3. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause G2, wherein the device is configured to urge the aerosol generating component against the container and thereby the container against the releasing element to provide the at least one air outlet opening.
Clause G4. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses G1 to G3, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
Clause G5. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause G4, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a capillary structure.
Clause G6. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause G4 or G5, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component is formed as a strip.
Clause G7. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses G4 to G6, wherein the aerosol generating component or the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a retaining feature for retaining the other of the aerosol generating component and the aerosolisable material transfer component.
Clause G8. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses G4 to G7 when dependent on clause G2, wherein the device is configured to urge the aerosol generating component against the aerosolisable material transfer component and thereby the container against the releasing element to provide the at least one air outlet opening.
Clause G9. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause G8, wherein the device is configurable in a primary state, a secondary state, and a tertiary state, wherein:
- in the primary state the aerosol generating component is spaced apart from the aerosolisable material transfer component;
- in the secondary state the aerosol generating component contacts the aerosolisable material transfer component and the releasing element extends through the container to provide the at least one air outlet opening; and
- in the tertiary state the aerosol generating component contacts the aerosolisable material transfer component and the at least one air outlet opening is formed in the container.
Clause G10. The article according to any one of clauses G1 to G9, wherein the wherein the aerosol generating component is formed of an electrically conductive material.
Clause G11. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses G1 to G10, wherein the aerosol generating component is substantially planar.
Clause G12. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses G1 to G11, wherein the device comprises an actuator for urging the container.
Clause G13. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause G12, wherein the actuator is moveable between a retracted state and an extended state.
Clause G14. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause G13 when dependent on clause 9, wherein the actuator is configured to move the device between the primary state, the secondary state, and the tertiary state.
Clause G15. The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses G1 to G15, wherein the article is configured such that removal of the article from the housing renders the aerosol generating component inoperable.

Any aspect of the present disclosure may be defined in relation to any of the other aspects of the present disclosure. For example, any aspect of the present disclosure may include any feature or features of any other aspect of the present disclosure.
The figures herein are schematic and not drawn to scale. 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

An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a sealed container comprising a first releasable barrier and a reservoir for aerosolisable material; and an aerosol generating component for generating aerosol from the aerosolisable material, wherein the first releasable barrier is moveable between a closed state and an open state, wherein:
in the closed state the first releasable barrier prevents fluid communication between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component, and

in the open state fluid can flow between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component by way of the first releasable barrier.
The article according to claim 1, wherein the first releasable barrier automatically tends to the closed state, optionally wherein the first releasable barrier is resiliently deformable from the closed state to the open state.
The article according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first releasable barrier comprises a first portion, a second portion, and an openable passage arranged between the first portion and the second portion, wherein:
in the closed state the openable passage is closed, and

in the open state the openable passage open.
The article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the article comprises an aerosolisable material transfer component for transferring aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the aerosol generating component.
The article according to claim 4, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component comprises a capillary structure.
The article according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component is compressible.
The article according to any one of claims 4 to 6 when dependent on claim 3, wherein the aerosolisable material transfer component extends through the openable passage, wherein in the closed state the first releasable barrier compresses a portion of the aerosolisable material transfer component such that aerosolisable material cannot flow between the reservoir and the aerosol generating component through the compressed portion.
The article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sealed container comprises an aerosol generation chamber, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
The article according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sealed container comprises an air passageway extending from at least one air inlet opening to at least one air outlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air inlet opening, wherein a releasable portion of the sealed container seals the at least one air outlet opening, wherein the aerosol generating component is arranged in the air passageway.
The article according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the reservoir is flexible.
A device for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the device comprising: a housing for receiving the article according to any one of claims 1 to 20; wherein the device is configured to release the first releasable barrier, wherein the device is configured to move the first releasable barrier between the closed state and the open state.
The device according to claim 11, wherein the housing is formed of a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is moveable between a closed position in which the first part and the second part together define an enclosed space for at least part of the article to be located, and an open position in which the first part and the second part are spaced apart from each other such that the space is accessible, wherein when the article is received by the housing, movement from the open position to the closed position causes movement of the first releasable barrier from the closed state to the open state.
The device according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the device comprises a locating structure for locating the first releasable barrier, wherein the locating structure retains the first portion of the first releasable barrier, wherein the locating structure permits movement of the second portion of the first releasable barrier relative to the first portion of the first releasable barrier.
The device according to claim 13, wherein movement from the open position to the closed position causes the device to apply a force to the reservoir to increase the internal pressure of the reservoir.
A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the article according to any one of claims 1 to 10; the device according to any one of claims 11 to 14; and one or more of a power source and a controller.