EP4683532A2

EP4683532A2 - Article

Info

Publication number: EP4683532A2
Application number: EP24715252.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Richard HAINES
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2023-03-21
Filing date: 2024-03-20
Publication date: 2026-01-28
Also published as: WO2024194632A3; WO2024194632A2; CN121419691A

Abstract

A substantially planar aerosol generating component (100) for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system. The substantially planar aerosol generating component includes at least two aerosol generating portions (101) and an airflow aperture (102) provided between the at least two aerosol generating portions.

Description

Article

Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating component for use as part of a noncombustible aerosol provision system, an airflow diverter for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, an article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, and a non-combustible aerosol provision system,.

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 aerosol delivery systems which have improved control of these characteristics.

Summary

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a substantially planar aerosol generating component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the substantially planar aerosol generating component comprising at least two aerosol generating portions and an airflow aperture provided therebetween. In one embodiment, the airflow aperture is sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 15 mL/s.

In one embodiment, the airflow aperture is sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 60 mL/s.

In one embodiment, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is a heating element.

In one embodiment, the heating element is a resistive heating element.

In one embodiment, the heating element is an induction heating element.

In one embodiment, the substantially planar aerosol generating component comprises a central portion in which the airflow aperture is provided.

In one embodiment, the central portion is a thermal break.

In one embodiment, in use the temperature of the central portion is at least 10% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions.

In one embodiment, the substantially planar aerosol generating component is integrally formed.

In one embodiment, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is porous.

In one aspect, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions comprises a plurality of elongate apertures.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an airflow diverter for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the airflow diverter having a longitudinal axis and comprising: a first side and an opposing second side, the first side comprising at least two longitudinally extending surfaces and an airflow diverting portion arranged on the first side and transversely between the longitudinally extending surfaces.

In one embodiment, the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces are arranged in a common plane. In one embodiment, the plane in which the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces is arranged is offset from the second side.

In one embodiment, the aerosol diverter is substantially planar.

In one embodiment, each of the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces comprises at least one airflow orifice.

In one embodiment, each of the at least one airflow orifice extends from the first side to the second side.

In one embodiment, the airflow diverter is integrally formed.

In one embodiment, the airflow diverting portion extends orthogonally from the first side.

In one embodiment, the airflow diverting portion comprises a ridge and/or a ramp.

In one embodiment, the airflow diverter is a thermal break.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a housing having at least one reservoir for an aerosol generating material; an airflow channel extending at least partially alongside the at least one reservoir; and the substantially planar aerosol generating component according to an above aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the substantially planar aerosol generating component is housed within the housing such that the airflow aperture is aligned with the airflow channel.

In one embodiment, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is configured to be activated independently of the other.

In one embodiment, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is configured to be deactivated after a predetermined operating time. In one embodiment, the article comprises at least one aerosol generating material transfer component, wherein each of the at least one aerosol generating material transfer component is arranged to transfer aerosol generating material from the at least one reservoir to the at least two aerosol generating components.

In one embodiment, the article comprises a mouthpiece outlet to which the airflow channel extends.

In one embodiment, the at least one reservoir is arranged between the mouthpiece outlet and the substantially planar aerosol generating component.

In one embodiment, the airflow diverter is housed within the housing such that the airflow diverting portion is aligned with the airflow channel, wherein the airflow diverter is arranged upstream of the substantially planar aerosol generating component with respect to the direction of airflow.

In one embodiment, the article is configured such that, in use, airflow passes along the at least two longitudinally extending portions, to the airflow diverting portion, and then to the airflow outlet.

In one embodiment, the article is configured such that, in use, airflow passes through each of the airflow orifices, along the at least two longitudinally extending portions, to the airflow diverting portion, and then to the airflow outlet.

The substantially planar aerosol generating component may be characterised in accordance with any other aspect of the present disclosure.

The airflow diverter may be characterised in accordance with any other aspect of the present disclosure.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: an article according to an above aspect of the present disclosure; a power source; and a controller. The article may be characterised in accordance with any other aspect of the present disclosure.

Any feature of any aspect or embodiment of the present disclosure may be combined with any other aspect or embodiment of the present disclosure.

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. 1 is a schematic diagram of a non-combustible aerosol provision system according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 2 is a top view of an aerosol generating component for use as part of the non-combustible aerosol provision system of Fig. 1 , according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an airflow diverter for use as part of the non-combustible aerosol provision system of Fig. 1 , according to the present disclosure; and

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of an article for use as part of the non-combustible aerosol provision system of Fig. 1 , according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 5 is an alternative perspective view of the article of Fig. 4;

Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of certain components of the article of Fig. 4; and

Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of part of the article of Fig. 4.

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 and articles that generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material (also referred to herein as “aerosolisable material”) without combusting the aerosol- generating material. Examples of such systems include electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating systems, and hybrid systems (which generate aerosol using a combination of aerosolgenerating materials). In some examples, 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 of the present disclosure. In some examples, 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 examples, 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 in such a hybrid system may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some examples, 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 nontobacco product.

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.

In some examples, the present disclosure relates to consumables for holding aerosolgenerating material, and which are configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables may be referred to as “articles” throughout the present disclosure.

The non-combustible aerosol provision system typically comprises a device part (also referred to herein as a “device”) and a consumable/article part (also referred to herein as an “article”). The device part typically comprises a power source and a controller. The power source may typically be an electrical power source, e.g. a rechargeable battery.

In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving or engaging with the consumable/article, an aerosol generator (which may or may not be within the consumable/article), an aerosol generation area (which may be within the consumable/article), a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

In some examples, the consumable/article for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area (also referred to herein as a reservoir for aerosolisable material), an aerosol-generating material transfer component (e.g. a wick, such as a pad), 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.

The systems described herein typically generate an inhalable aerosol by vaporisation of 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.

Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants. In some examples, the aerosolgenerating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). In some examples, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some examples, the aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

The term “active substance” as used herein may relate to 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.

The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some examples, 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 “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.

Fig. 1 is a highly schematic diagram (not to scale) of an example non-combustible aerosol provision system such as an e-cigarette 10. The e-cigarette 10 has a generally cylindrical shape, extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by a dashed line, and comprises two main components, namely a control or power component or section 20 (which may be referred to herein as a device) and a cartridge assembly or section 30 (which may be referred to herein as an “article”, “consumable”, “cartomizer”, or “cartridge”) that operates as a vapour generating component.

The cartridge assembly (i.e. the article) 30 includes a storage compartment (also referred to herein as a reservoir) 3 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 3 has 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 3 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 3 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 30 also comprises an electrical aerosol generating component 4 located externally of the reservoir tank 3 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 (via resistive or inductive heating) to raise the temperature of the aerosolisable material until it evaporates. An aerosol generating material transfer component, e.g. a liquid conduit arrangement such as a wick or other porous element (not shown), may be provided to deliver aerosolisable material from the storage compartment 3 to the aerosol generating component 4. The aerosol generating material transfer component may have one or more parts located inside the storage compartment 3 so as to be able to absorb aerosolisable material and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other parts of the aerosol generating material transfer component that are in contact with the aerosol generating component 4. This aerosolisable material is thereby vaporised, and is to be replaced by new aerosolisable material transferred to the aerosol generating component 4 by the aerosol generating 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, in which the parts may be differently arranged compared to the highly schematic representation of Fig. 1. For example, the wick may be an entirely separate element from the aerosol generating component.

In some cases, the aerosol generating 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 aerosol generating 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 required aerosol.

Returning to Fig. 1 , the cartridge assembly 30 also includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening or air outlet through which a user may inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 4, and delivered through the airflow channel. The power component 20 includes a cell 5 (also referred to herein as a battery, and which may be re-chargeable) to provide power for electrical components of the e-cigarette 10, in particular the aerosol generating component 4. Additionally, there is a printed circuit board 28 and/or other electronics or circuitry for generally controlling the e-cigarette. The control electronics/circuitry connect the vapour generating element 4 to the battery 5 when vapour is required, 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 10 during which air enters through one or more air inlets 26 in the wall of the power component 20 to flow along the airflow channel. When the aerosol generating component 4 receives power from the battery 5, the aerosol generating component 4 vaporises aerosolisable material delivered from the storage compartment 3 to generate the aerosol, and this is then inhaled by a user through the opening in the mouthpiece 35. The aerosol is carried to the mouthpiece 35 along the airflow channel (not shown in Fig. 1) that connects the air inlet 26 to the air outlet when a user inhales on the mouthpiece 35. 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 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 are separate parts detachable from one another by separation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, as indicated by the solid arrows in Fig. 1. The components 20, 30 are joined together when the device 10 is in use by cooperating engagement elements 21 , 31 (for example, a screw, magnetic or bayonet fitting) which provide mechanical and electrical connectivity between the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly 30. This is merely an example arrangement, however, and the various components may be differently distributed between the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly section 30, and other components and elements may be included. The two sections may connect together end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration as in Fig. 1 , 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 10 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 invention 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 via so-called resistive heating or induction 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 W02010/045670 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 pm, 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 0.1 mm to 0.2mm, such as 0.1 mm 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 50mm. 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 will 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 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 required 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.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a substantially planar aerosol generating component 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system 30, the substantially planar aerosol generating component 100 comprising at least two aerosol generating portions 101 and an airflow aperture provided therebetween 102.

An example aerosol generating component 100 is illustrated in Fig. 2. An article 300 comprising the aerosol generating component 100 is illustrated in Figs. 4 to 7.

The present inventors have found that an article 300 comprising the aerosol generating component 100 can exhibit improved performance. By virtue of the arrangement of the airflow aperture 102 and the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 , airflow can pass along each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 before being directed through the airflow aperture 102. This arrangement facilitates simplified airflow through the article 300, which in turn can improve aerosol properties. By contrast, a more complex airflow increases pressure drop (PD) and results in airflow stalling, as well as increased condensation within the article and thus less aerosol being delivered to a user. Furthermore, a simplified airflow can provide for reduced airflow turbulence. Moreover, this arrangement facilitates the individual operation of each aerosol generating portion 101 , which provides for a more flexible/configurable article 100. For example, the aerosol generating portions 101 can be activated together, independently of each other, and/or at different powers relative to each other. This can further provide for respective aerosol particles (e.g. different liquids can be fed to each aerosol generating portion 101) and/or aerosol particle sizes, corresponding to the respective aerosol generating portions 101.

As shown in Fig. 2, the aerosol generating component 100 may comprise an axis, e.g. a longitudinal axis. Each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 may comprise at least one elongate aperture 103. For example, as shown in e.g. Fig. 2, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 may comprise a plurality of elongate apertures 103 (not all are numbered). The elongate apertures 103 may be arranged in series, e.g. along an axis of the aerosol generating component 100. A number of the apertures 103 may have an open end. A number of the apertures 103 may define a closed shape.

Each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 may comprise a plurality of elongate heating portions 104 (e.g. heating strips; not all are numbered). The heating portions 104 may be arranged in series, e.g. along an axis of the aerosol generating component 100. Adjacent heating portions 104 may be separated from each other by an elongate aperture 103.

The aerosol generating component 100 may comprise at least one (e.g. two) electrical connection portions 105. A respective electrical connection portion 105 may be arranged at a free end/side of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101. Each electrical connection portion 105 may comprise an aperture 101 for receiving an electrical contact 1000. The at least one electrical connection portion 105 can be connected to the electrical contact 1000 by insertion of the electrical contact 1000 into the aperture 106, such that the edge of the at least one electrical connection portion 105 defining the perimeter of the aperture 106 retains the electrical contact 1000. For example, the electrical contact 1000 may comprise a cylindrical pin. For example, the aperture 104 may be a substantially circular aperture. The aperture 104 may have a closed end.

The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 10 mL/s. Advantageously, such an airflow rate provides for an effective delivery of airflow to a user in use. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 12 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 14 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 15 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 16 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 17 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 18 mL/s.

The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 60 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 58 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 56 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 54 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 52 mL/s. The airflow aperture 102 may be sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 50 mL/s.

Each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 may be a heating element. Each heating element 101 may be a resistive heating element. Alternatively, each heating element 101 may be an induction heating element, i.e. act as a susceptor. As shown particularly in Fig. 2, the aerosol generating component may comprise a central portion 107. The airflow aperture 102 may be provided in the central portion 107. The central portion 107 may comprise or be a thermal break. The central portion 107 may have a lower thermal conductivity than the aerosol generating portions 101 (e.g. the material from which the central portion 107 is formed may have a lower thermal conductivity than the material from which each aerosol generating portion 101 is formed). Advantageously, the thermal break can reduce the risk of overheating of the aerosol generating component 100. For example, the central portion 107 may comprise or be formed of a thermally insulating material. Thermally insulating materials are known to those skilled in the art. Non-limiting examples of suitable thermally insulating materials include high temperature polymers, e.g. polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyaryletherketone (PAEK), and polyphthalamide (PPA).

Moreover, the central portion 107 may comprise an electrical terminal. This electrical terminal may be common to each of the aerosol generating portions 101. For example, the common electrical terminal of the central portion 107 may be a negative electrical terminal, and the or each electrical connection portion 105 may comprise a positive electrical terminal. This arrangement provides for simplified construction. Where the central portion 107 comprises an electrical terminal, the article 300 may comprise an electrical contact (not shown) arranged to connect to this electrical terminal.

In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be at least 80 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be at least

100 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be at least 150 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be at least 180 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions

101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be at least 200 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be at least 220 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be at least 250 °C.

In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be no greater than 320 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be no greater than 300 °C. In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be no greater than 280 °C.

In use, the temperature each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 in contact with an aerosolisable material may be from 250 °C to 270 °C.

In this context, “in use” may mean when power is delivered to the aerosol generating component 100, such that the aerosol generating portions 101 can aerosolise aerosolisable material.

In use, the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 10% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101. In use, the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 20% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101. In use, the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 30% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101. In use, the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 40% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 . In use the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 50% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 . In use the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 60% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101. In use the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 70% lower than the maximum of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 . In use the temperature of the central portion 107 may be at least 80% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 .

The aerosol generating component 100 may be integrally formed. By “integrally formed”, we mean the aerosol generating component 100 is formed of a single piece. This provides for a more robust aerosol generating component 100 relative those formed of multiple pieces. Moreover, this provides for more efficient and/or simplified manufacture of the aerosol generating component 100 relative to those formed of multiple pieces.

The aerosol generating component 100 may be porous. For example, the aerosol generating component 100 may comprise or be formed of a porous material. The aerosol generating component 100 may be as described elsewhere herein. In some aspects, the aerosol generating component 100 may be curved with respect to an axis of the aerosol generating component 100, e.g. a longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating component 100, as shown in Fig. 6 particularly.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an airflow diverter 200 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the diverter 200 having a longitudinal axis X and comprising: a first side 201 and an opposing second side 202, the first side 201 comprising at least two longitudinally extending surfaces 203 and an airflow diverting portion 204 arranged on the first side 201 and transversely between the longitudinally extending surfaces 203.

An example airflow diverter 200 is illustrated in Fig. 3. An article 300 comprising the airflow diverter 200 is also illustrated in Figs. 4 to 7.

The present inventors have found that an article 300 comprising the airflow diverter 200 can exhibit improved performance. In this regard, the features of the airflow diverter 200 are such that, in use, airflow can be effectively diverted in a predetermined direction (e.g. towards an outlet 301c of the article 300). Moreover, the airflow diverter 200 can provide for a simplified airflow through the article 300 in use.

Referring particularly to Figs. 3, 6, and 7, the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces 203 may be arranged in a common plane. For example, the plane in which the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces 203 is arranged may be offset from the second side 202 (shown particularly in Fig. 3). In this way, the airflow diverter 200 may be used to create a narrow airflow channel in an article 300 in use, which may facilitate an increased airflow velocity. This may improve aerosol properties.

Further, the airflow diverter 200 may be substantially planar.

In some aspects, each of the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces 203 may comprise at least one airflow orifice 205. Each of the at least one airflow orifice 205 may extends from the first side 201 to the second side 202. In this way, the at least one airflow orifice 205 can be considered as a “through hole”. The present inventors have further identified that the positioning of the at least one airflow orifice 205 can influence the particle size of the generated aerosol in use. Accordingly, the positioning of the at least one airflow orifice 205 can be adjusted for a given application, providing for flexible performance. The airflow diverter 200 may be integrally formed. By “integrally formed”, we mean the airflow diverter 200 is formed as a single piece. This provides for a more robust airflow diverter 200 relative an airflow diverter 200 formed of multiple pieces. Moreover, this provides for more efficient and/or simplified manufacture of the airflow diverter 200 relative to an airflow diverter 200 formed of multiple pieces.

The airflow diverting portion 204 may extend orthogonally from the first side 201 . For example, the airflow diverting portion 204 may extend orthogonally to the longitudinal axis X of the airflow diverter 200.

The airflow diverting portion 204 may comprise a curved apex. This can help reduce turbulence in airflow in use. As shown particularly in Fig. 3, the airflow diverting portion 204 may comprise a ridge and/or a ramp.

The airflow diverter 200 may comprise or be a thermal break. For example, the airflow diverter 200 may comprise or be formed of a thermally insulating material. Thermally insulating materials are known to those skilled in the art. Non-limiting examples of suitable thermally insulating materials include high temperature polymers, e.g. polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyaryletherketone (PAEK), and polyphthalamide (PPA).

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 300 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system 10, the article 300 comprising: a housing 301 having at least one reservoir 302, 303 for an aerosol generating material; an airflow channel 304 extending at least partially alongside the at least one reservoir 302, 303; and the substantially planar aerosol generating component according 100 according to an above aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the substantially planar aerosol generating component 100 is housed within the housing 301 such that the airflow aperture 102 is aligned with the airflow channel 304.

An example of the article 300 is illustrated in Figs. 4 to 7.

The present inventors have found that the article 300 comprising the aerosol generating component 100 can exhibit improved performance. By virtue of the substantially planar aerosol generating component 100, the airflow through the article 300 can be simplified, which in turn can improve aerosol properties. For example, alignment of the airflow aperture 102 and the airflow channel 304 can simplify airflow through the article 300. By contrast, a more complex airflow increases pressure drop (PD) and results in airflow stalling, as well as increased condensation within the article and thus less aerosol being delivered to a user. Furthermore, a simplified airflow can provide for reduced airflow turbulence. Moreover, this arrangement facilitates the individual operation of each aerosol generating portion 101 , which provides for a more flexible/configurable article 100. For example, the aerosol generating portions 101 can be activated together, independently of each other, and/or at different powers relative to each other. This can further provide for respective aerosol particles (e.g. different liquids can be fed to each aerosol generating portion 101) and/or aerosol particle sizes, corresponding to the respective aerosol generating portions 101. Furthermore, by virtue of the airflow channel extending at least partially alongside the at least one reservoir 302, the article 300 may be constructed with an increased reservoir 302, 303 capacity.

Referring to Figs. 4 to 7, the housing 301 may comprise a first portion (e.g. a mouthpiece portion) 301a and a second portion (e.g. a base portion) 301b. The first portion 301a and the second portion 301 b may be connectable together. For example, an end of the first portion 301a and the second portion 301b may be connectable together. In Figs. 4 to 7, an end of the first portion 301a comprises an opening for receiving the second portion 301b, such that the first portion 301a and the second portion 301b are connectable together.

The article 300 (e.g. the housing 300 such as the first portion 301a) may comprise a mouthpiece outlet 301c (see Fig. 4) to which the airflow channel 304 extends. The mouthpiece outlet 301c may be provided at an end of the article 300 (e.g. the housing 300 such as the first portion 301a, e.g. at the end opposite from the second portion 301 b). The article 300 may define an axis. For example, the article 300 in Figs. 4 to 7 defines a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may extend between the mouthpiece outlet 301 c and the second portion 301 b.

The article 300 may comprise at least one aerosol generating material transfer component 305, 306. For example, the article 300 may comprise two aerosol generating material transfer components 305, 306, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7. The or each aerosol generating material transfer component 305, 306 may be as described elsewhere herein. For example, the or each aerosol generating material transfer component 305, 306 may be or comprise a wick. Each of the at least one aerosol generating material transfer component 305, 306 may be porous. Each of the at least one aerosol generating material transfer component 305, 306 may be arranged to transfer an aerosol generating material from the at least one reservoir 302, 303 to the aerosol generating component 100, e.g. to the at least two aerosol generating portions 101. For example, where there are at least two aerosol generating material transfer components 305, 306, each of the aerosol generating material transfer components 305, 306 may be arranged to transfer an aerosol generating material to a respective aerosol generating portion 101. The at least one aerosol generating material transfer component 305, 306 may be arranged between the at least one reservoir 302, 303 and the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 (see Fig. 7). The at least one aerosol generating material transfer component 305, 306 may be arranged adjacent to or in direct contact with the at least two aerosol generating portions 101. For example, each of the aerosol generating material transfer components 305, 306 may be arranged adjacent to or in direct contact with a respective aerosol generating portion 101 (e.g. see Fig. 7).

As explained herein, the article 300 comprises at least one reservoir 302, 303 for an aerosol generating material. For example, the housing 301 , such as the first portion 301a, may comprise the at least one reservoir 302, 303. As shown in Fig. 4 and 5, the article 300 (e.g. the housing 301 or the first portion 301a) may comprise two reservoirs 302, 303 for an aerosol generating material. The at least one reservoir 302, 303 may be arranged between the mouthpiece outlet 301c and the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 (see Figs. 4 and 5). Each reservoir 302, 303 may comprise a respective aerosol generating material.

For example, each reservoir 302, 303 may be arranged to communicate an aerosol generating material to a respective aerosol generating portion 101. For example, the reservoir 302 (or 303) may be arranged to communicate an aerosol generating material to each of the aerosol generating portions 101. For example, a first reservoir 302 may be arranged to communicate a first aerosol generating material to one of the aerosol generating portions 101 , and a second reservoir 303 may be arranged to communicate a second aerosol generating material to another of the aerosol generating portions 101. The first and second aerosol generating materials may be different from each other. For example, the first aerosol generating material may comprise nicotine (e.g. and no flavour) and the second aerosol generating material may comprise a flavour. Therefore, the article 300 may be tailored to deliver aerosol formed from a mixture of different aerosol generating materials, for example at varying concentrations of each in the mixture. Alternatively, the article 300 (e.g. the housing 301 or the first portion 301a) may comprise one reservoir 302 (or 303) for an aerosol generating material. The reservoir 302 (or 303) may be arranged to deliver an aerosol generating material to each of the aerosol generating portions 101. In some aspects, the reservoir 302 (or 303) may form an annulus which surrounds the airflow path 304 (not illustrated). In some aspects, the or each reservoir 302, 303 may extend along at least 40% of the total length of the article 300. In some aspects, the or each reservoir 302, 303 may extend along at least 50% of the total length of the article 300. In some aspects, the or each reservoir 302, 303 may extend along at least 60% of the total length of the article 300. In some aspects, the or each reservoir 302, 303 may extend along at least 70% of the total length of the article 300. Such arrangements provide for an increased reservoir 302, 303 capacity.

The article 300 may comprise a sealing component 307. The sealing component 307 may be arranged to prevent leakage of aerosol generating material from the or each reservoir 302, 303, e.g. between the first portion 301a and the second portion 301b. The sealing component 307 may comprise one or more sealing ribs. The sealing ribs may extend along an outer perimeter of the sealing component 307, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7. The sealing component 307 may comprise a through-going opening 306a.

The article 300 may comprise the airflow diverter 200 according to an above aspect of the present disclosure. The present inventors have found that an article 300 comprising the combination of the aerosol generating component 100 and the airflow diverter 200 provides for particularly The airflow diverter 200 may be housed within the housing 301 , such that the airflow diverter 200 is aligned with the airflow channel 304. For example, the airflow diverter 200 may be arranged upstream of the substantially planar aerosol generating component 200 with respect to the direction of airflow.

As explained herein, the article 300 comprises an airflow channel 304 extending at least partially alongside the at least one reservoir 302, 303 for an aerosol generating material. This is shown particularly in Figs. 4 to 7. The airflow channel 304 may extend between one or more airflow inlets 308 of the article 300 and the mouthpiece outlet 301c of the article 300. The manner in which the airflow channel 304 is provided may be varied. For example, in Figs. 4 to 7 the airflow channel 304 comprises a longitudinal of the first portion 301a, the through-going opening 307a of the sealing component 307, and an airflow channel of the second portion 301 b.

In some aspects, the portion of the airflow channel 304 extending between the airflow aperture 102 and the outlet 301c may be straight. In some aspects, the portion of the airflow channel 304 extending between the airflow aperture 102 and the outlet 301c may extend along at least 40% of the total length of the article 300. In some aspects, the portion of the airflow channel 304 extending between the airflow aperture 102 and the outlet 301c may extend along at least 50% of the total length of the article 300. In some aspects, the portion of the airflow channel 304 extending between the airflow aperture 102 and the outlet 301c may extend along at least 60% of the total length of the article 300. In some aspects, the portion of the airflow channel 304 extending between the airflow aperture 102 and the outlet 301c may extend along at least 70% of the total length of the article 300. Such arrangements provide for more effective airflow through the article 300.

In some aspects, such as in Figs. 4 to 7, the article 300 may comprise a single airflow outlet 301c. This provides for simplified airflow. Further, this provides for construction of an article having an increased reservoir 302, 303 capacity (e.g. relative to an article in which multiple airflow channels are used).

The article 300 may comprise an aerosol generation chamber 310. The aerosol generating component 100 may be arranged in the aerosol generation chamber 310. For example, the airflow channel 304 may comprise the aerosol generation chamber 308.

The article 300 may comprise one or more electrical contacts 309. The or each electrical contact 309 may be arranged to connect to a (or a respective) electrical connection portion 105 of the aerosol generating component 100 (see, e.g., Fig. 7).

In some aspects, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 is configured to be activated independently of the other 100. This improves the configurability/flexibility of the article 300. For example, one aerosol generating portion 101 may be activated and the other not, where an aerosol formed from a specific aerosol generating material is desired. For example, one aerosol generating portion 101 may be activated and the other not, where one of the aerosol generating portions 101 is overheated and/or if one of the reservoirs 302, 303 arranged in communication with that aerosol generating portion 101 is empty.

In some aspects, each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 is configured to be deactivated after a predetermined operating time. This can be used when, for example, an aerosol formed from a specific aerosol generating material is desired and/or one of the aerosol generating portions 101 is overheated and/or one of the reservoirs 302, 303 arranged in communication with that aerosol generating portion 101 is empty. Airflow through the article 300 in use will now be described. In use, when a user draws on the mouthpiece outlet 301c, an airflow through the airflow channel 304 of the article 300 may be generated. The article 300 may be configured such that airflow enters the article through the at least one airflow inlet 308. The article 300 may be configured such that airflow passes along the second side 202 of the airflow diverter 200. The article 300 may be configured such that airflow passes through each of the at least two airflow orifices 205, e.g. from the second side 202 to the first side 201 of the airflow diverter 200. The article 300 may be configured such that airflow passes along the at least two longitudinally extending portions 203 to the airflow diverting portion 204. The article 300 may be configured such that the airflow diverting portion 204 diverts airflow to the airflow aperture 102. The airflow diverter 200 may comprise an airflow splitter. That is, the airflow diverter 200 may be configured to split incoming airflow into multiple airflows (e.g. using the airflow orifices 205). The article 300 may be configured such that each of the multiple airflows passes along a respective aerosol generating portion 101. The article 300 may be configured to combine the multiple airflows into a single airflow, e.g. at the airflow diverting portion 204 and/or the airflow aperture 102. The article 300 may be configured such that airflow passes through the airflow aperture 102. The article 300 may be configured such that airflow exiting the airflow aperture 102 is directed to the mouthpiece outlet 301c.

For example, referring to Fig. 7, when a user draws on the mouthpiece outlet 301c (not shown), an airflow through the airflow channel 304 of the article 300 is generated. That is, airflow enters the article 300 through the at least one airflow inlet 308, and then passes along the second side 202 of the airflow diverter 200 before passing through each of the airflow orifices 205, such that the airflow passes from the second side 202 to the first side 201 of the airflow diverter 200. The airflow exits each of the at least two airflow orifices 205 on the first side 201 passes along the respective longitudinally extending surfaces 203, before reaching the airflow diverting portion 204, which diverts the airflow towards the airflow aperture 102. In this way, and as particularly illustrated in Fig. 7, the airflow diverter 200 splits incoming airflow into multiple airflows, and each of the multiple airflows passes along a respective aerosol generating portion 101 , which are then combined into a single airflow at the airflow diverting portion 204 and/or the airflow aperture 102. The thick arrow in Fig. 7 indicates the direction of airflow.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, aerosol generating material that is transferred to each of the aerosol generating portions 101 is vaporised when the aerosol generating component 100 is powered by power source. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the generated aerosol is transported along the airflow channel 304 when a user draws on the mouthpiece outlet 301c.

The article 300 may comprise one or more of a power source and a controller.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 300 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system 10, the article 300 comprising: a housing 101 having at least one airflow inlet 308 and an airflow outlet 301c (which may be described herein as a mouthpiece outlet 301c); a substantially planar aerosol generating component 100 according to an above aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the airflow aperture 102 of the aerosol generating component 100 is arranged such that airflow travelling from the airflow inlet 308 to the airflow outlet 301c flows along each of the at least two aerosol generating portions 101 and then through the airflow aperture 102.

The article 300 may be characterised by the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

An example of the article 300 is illustrated in Figs. 4 to 7.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 300 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system 10, the article 300 comprising: a housing 301 having at least one airflow inlet 308 and an airflow outlet 301c (which may be described herein as a mouthpiece outlet 301c); an airflow diverter 200 according to an above aspect of the present disclosure, the airflow diverter 200 being arranged such that airflow entering the housing 100 via the at least one airflow inlet 308 flows along the longitudinal axis of the airflow diverter 200 towards the airflow diverting portion 204.

An example of the article 300 is illustrated in Figs. 4 to 7.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system 10 comprising: an article 300 according to an above aspect of the present disclosure; a power source; and a controller 200.

The non-combustible aerosol provision system 10 may be characterised by the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure

Any aspect of the present disclosure may comprise any feature 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

1 . A substantially planar aerosol generating component for use as part of a noncombustible aerosol provision system, the substantially planar aerosol generating component comprising at least two aerosol generating portions and an airflow aperture provided therebetween.

2. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to claim 1 , wherein the airflow aperture is sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of at least 15 mL/s.

3. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the airflow aperture is sized to permit an airflow rate therethrough of no greater than 60 mL/s.

4. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is a heating element, optionally wherein the heating element is a resistive heating element or an induction heating element.

5. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the substantially planar aerosol generating component comprises a central portion in which the airflow aperture is provided.

6. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to claim 5, wherein the central portion is a thermal break.

7. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to claim 5 or 6, wherein in use the temperature of the central portion is at least 10% lower than the temperature of each of the at least two aerosol generating portions.

8. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the substantially planar aerosol generating component is integrally formed.

9. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is porous.

10. The substantially planar aerosol generating component according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each of the at least two aerosol generating portions comprises a plurality of elongate apertures.

11. An airflow diverter for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the airflow diverter having a longitudinal axis and comprising: a first side and an opposing second side, the first side comprising at least two longitudinally extending surfaces and an airflow diverting portion arranged on the first side and transversely between the longitudinally extending surfaces.

12. The airflow diverter according to claim 11 , wherein the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces are arranged in a common plane.

13. The airflow diverter according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the plane in which the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces is arranged is offset from the second side.

14. The airflow diverter according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the aerosol diverter is substantially planar.

15. The airflow diverter according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein each of the at least two longitudinally extending surfaces comprises at least one airflow orifice.

16. The airflow diverter according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein each of the at least one airflow orifice extends from the first side to the second side.

17. The airflow diverter according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein: the airflow diverter is integrally formed; and/or the airflow diverting portion extends orthogonally from the first side; and/or the airflow diverting portion comprises a ridge and/or a ramp; and/or the airflow diverter is a thermal break.

18. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: a housing having at least one reservoir for an aerosol generating material; an airflow channel extending at least partially alongside the at least one reservoir; and the substantially planar aerosol generating component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the substantially planar aerosol generating component is housed within the housing such that the airflow aperture is aligned with the airflow channel.

19. An article according to claim 18, wherein: each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is configured to be activated independently of the other; and/or each of the at least two aerosol generating portions is configured to be deactivated after a predetermined operating time.

20. An article according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the article comprises at least one aerosol generating material transfer component, wherein each of the at least one aerosol generating material transfer component is arranged to transfer an aerosol generating material from the at least one reservoir to the at least two aerosol generating portions.

21. An article according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the article comprises a mouthpiece outlet to which the airflow channel extends, optionally wherein the at least one reservoir is arranged between the mouthpiece outlet and the substantially planar aerosol generating component.

22. An article according to any one of claims 18 to 21 , wherein the article comprises the airflow diverter according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the airflow diverter is housed within the housing such that the airflow diverter is aligned with the airflow channel, wherein the airflow diverter is arranged upstream of the substantially planar aerosol generating component with respect to the direction of airflow.

23. An article according to claim 22, wherein the article is configured such that, in use, airflow passes along the at least two longitudinally extending portions, to the airflow diverting portion, and then to the airflow aperture.

24. An article according to claim 22 or 23 when dependent on claim 15, wherein the article is configured such that, in use, airflow passes through each of the airflow orifices, along the at least two longitudinally extending portions, to the airflow diverting portion, and then to the airflow aperture.

25. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: an article according to any one of claims 18 to 24; a power source; and a controller.