GB2598276A

GB2598276A - Non-combustible aerosol provision device

Info

Publication number: GB2598276A
Application number: GB2008544.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Quarmby Jack; Leoni Charles
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2020-06-05
Filing date: 2020-06-05
Publication date: 2022-03-02
Also published as: WO2021245283A1; GB202008544D0

Abstract

A non-combustible aerosol provision device 1 comprises: an aerosol generation zone 110 for receiving a consumable 21 comprising aerosol-generating material; an aerosol generator 120 for generating aerosol from the material in the generation zone 110 during at least one session of use; a collection zone 130b for collecting residue produced as a consequence of the session of use and remaining in the device 1 after the session of use; and a transportation mechanism 140b which assists in transportation of the residue away from the generation zone 110 and to the collection zone 130b, wherein the device 1 is configured to heat the collection zone 130b to remove the residue from the collection zone 130b. An absorbent may comprise a catalyst such as a ceramic, and said absorbent may comprise the collection zone and the transportation mechanism. The device 1 may comprise a first heater 121 for heating the aerosol generation zone 110 at a first temperature, and a second heater 122 for heating the collection zone 130b to a second, higher temperature to remove the residue. The collection zone 130b may comprise a removable receptacle 160.

Description

NON-COMBUSTIBLE AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE

Technical Field

The present invention relates to non-combustible aerosol provision devices, noncombustible aerosol provision systems comprising a non-combustible aerosol provision device, and methods of removing residue from a non-combustible aerosol provision device.

Background

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like, burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without combusting. Examples of such products are so-called "heat not bum" products or tobacco heating devices or products, which release compounds by heating, but not burning, material. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

A non-combustible aerosol provision device is an example of a "heat not burn" product. During use of such a non-combustible aerosol provision device, condensation can build up in the device, and in specific areas of the device associated with aerosol-generation. Over time, the condensation results in a build-up of deposits in these areas, and possibly also in an aerosol generation zone, which can affect user experience of the device

Summary

A first aspect of the invention provides a non-combustible aerosol provision device comprising: an aerosol generation zone for receiving a consumable comprising aerosol-generating material; an aerosol generator for generating aerosol from the aerosol-generating material in die aerosol generation zone during at least one session of use of the non-combustible aerosol provision device; a collection zone for collecting residue produced as a consequence of the at least one session of use and remaining in the non-combustible aerosol provision device after the at least one session of use: and a transportation mechanism to assist in transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone; wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises an absorbent wherein the absorbent comprises the collection zone.

In some embodiments, die absorbent comprises the transportation mechanism. In some embodiments, the absorbent comprises a catalyst, in some embodiments, the catalyst is a ceramic.

In some embodiments, the collection zone is at a side of die aerosol generation zone.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater for generating the aerosol by heating die aerosol-generating material and is configured to heat die collection zone to remove die residue from the collection zone. in some embodiments, the collection zone is at an end of the aerosol generation zone.

In some embodiments, the transportation mechanism comprises a repellent. In some embodiments, the repellent is hydrophobic.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a receptacle configured to provide at least one portion of the collection zone. in some embodiments, the receptacle is removable from the rest of the non-combustible aerosol provision device so as to fluidically disconnect the collection zone from the aerosol generation zone.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a first heater configured to generate the aerosol by heating the aerosol generation zone, and the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a second heater configured to heat the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a control system configured to: control the first heater to heat the aerosol generation zone to a first temperature; and control the second heater to heat the collection zone to a second temperature higher than the first temperature.

In some embodiments, die non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a sensing system configured to sense and indicate an absence of the consumable in the aerosol generation zone; and the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone when the sensing system indicates absence of the consumable in the aerosol generation zone.

In some embodiments, the second heater is configured to heat the collection zone to the second temperature when the sensing system indicates the absence of the consumable in die aerosol generation zone.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises: an opening via which the consumable is insertable into the aerosol generation zone; a cover for selectively closing the opening; and a sensing system configured to indicate a state of the cover; wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone when the sensing system indicates that the opening is at least partially open to enable heated residue to pass out of the non-combustible aerosol provision device through the opening.

In some embodiments the aerosol generation zone comprises the transportation mechanism.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a rechargeable power source; and the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone when the rechargeable power source is being charged. In other embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone without the rechargeable power source being charged.

A second aspect of the invention provides a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: a consumable comprising aerosol-generating material: and the non-combustible aerosol provision device according to the first aspect.

A third aspect of the invention provides a method of removing residue from a noncombustible aerosol provision device, wherein the residue is produced as a consequence of at least one session of use and remains in the non-combustible aerosol provision device after the at least one session of use, wherein the method comprises: assisting, by a transportation mechanism of the non-combustible aerosol provision device, transportation of the residue away from an aerosol generation zone of the non-combustible aerosol provision device and to a collection zone of the non-combustible aerosol provision device; collecting, in the collection zone, the residue that is transported by assistance of the transportation mechanism; and heating, by the non-combustible aerosol provision device, the residue in the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone.

In some embodiments, the assisting comprises assisting, by an absorbent of the noncombustible aerosol provision device, in the transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone.

In some embodiments, the assisting comprises assisting, by a repellent of the non-combustible aerosol provision device, in the transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone.

In some embodiments, the method according to the third aspect is for removing residue of the non-combustible aerosol provision device according to the first aspect.

Further aspects of the invention described herein may provide the use of the noncombustible aerosol provision device according to the first aspect ancUor second aspect in the generation of an inhalablc aerosol.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of a non-combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device is shown with a consumable comprising aerosol-generating material inserted; Figure 2 shows a schematic front cross-sectional view of the example non-combustible aerosol provision device of Figure I with the consumable inserted through line A-A shown in Figure I; Figure 3 shows a schematic front cross-sectional view of the example non-combustible aerosol provision device of Figure 1 without a consumable inserted; Figure 4 schematically shows another example of a non-combustible aerosol provision device Figure 5 schematically shows a further example of a non-combustible aerosol provision device; Figure 6 schematically shows an example non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising an example non-combustible aerosol provision device and consumable; and Figure 7 shows a method of removing residue from a non-combustible aerosol provision device.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates to non-combustible aerosol provision systems. According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a powered noncombustible 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.

The non-combustible aerosol provision system comprises 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 or consisting of aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. Part or all of the aerosol-generating material 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.

A susceptor is 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.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a noncombustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and 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 fonn 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 device may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

An aerosol-modifying agent is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol generation area, that is configured to modify the aerosol generated, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent.

The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be a solid, a liquid, or a gel.

The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material.

In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered 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 one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.

An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol, 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.

Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a schematic perspective view of non-combustible aerosol provision device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The device comprises an aerosol generator configured to cause aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. In this embodiment, the device 1 is for heating aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user. In this embodiment, the aerosol-generating material comprises tobacco, and the device 1 is a tobacco heating product (also known in the art as a tobacco heating device or a heat-not-burn device). The device 1 is a handheld device for inhalation of the aerosol-generating material by the user of the handheld device.

The device 1 comprises a first end 3 and a second end 5, opposite the first end 3. The first end 3 is sometimes referred to herein as the mouth end or proximal end of the device 1. The second end 5 is sometimes referred to herein as the distal end of the device 1. The device 1 has an on/off button 7 to allow the device I. as a whole, to be switched on and off as desired by a user of the device 1.

In broad outline, the device 1 is configured to generate an aerosol to be inhaled by a user by heating an aerosol generating material. In use, a user inserts a consumable 21 into the device 1 and activates the device 1, e.g. using the button 7, to cause the device I to begin generating aerosol from the aerosol generating material, such as by heating in this embodiment. The user subsequently draws on a mouthpiece 21b of the consumable 21 near the first end 3 of the device 1 to inhale an aerosol generated by the device 1. As a user draws on the consumable 21, generated aerosol flows through the device 1 along a flow path towards the proximal end 3 of the device 1.

In examples, a vapour is produced that then at least partly condenses to form an aerosol before exiting the device Ito be inhaled by the user. In this respect, first it may be noted that, in general, a vapour is a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature, which means that for example the vapour can be condensed to a liquid by increasing its pressure without reducing the temperature. On the other hand, in general, an aerosol is a colloid of fine solid particles or liquid droplets, in air or another gas. A "colloid" is a substance in which microscopically dispersed insoluble particles are suspended throughout another substance. For reasons of convenience, as used herein die terni aerosol should be taken as meaning an aerosol, a vapour or a combination of an aerosol and vapour.

The device 1 comprises a casing 9 for locating and protecting various internal components of the device 1. The casing 9 is an external housing for housing the internal components. In the embodiment shown, the casing 9 encompasses a perimeter of the device 1, capped with a top panel 17, at die first end 3, which defines generally the 'top' of the device 1 and a bottom panel 19, at the second end 5 (see Figures 2 to 5), which defines generally the 'bottom' of the device 1. The first end 3 of the device 1 is therefore provided at atop portion of the device 1, shown as an upper portion of the device 1 in Figure 1. The second end 3 of the device 1 is provided at a bottom portion of the device I. shown as a lower portion of the device 1 in Figure I. As shown in Figure 1, the device 1 comprises a longitudinal axis in a Y-axis direction, and die casing surrounds the internal components in a direction radial to the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the top panel 17 and/or the bottom panel 19 may be removably fixed to the casing 9, to permit easy access to the interior of the device 1. in some embodiments, the casing 9 may be "permanently" fixed to the top panel 17 and/or the bottom panel 19, for example to deter a user from accessing the interior of the device 1. in one embodiment, the panels 17 and 19 are made of a plastics material, including for example glass-filled nylon formed by injection moulding, and the casing 9 is made of aluminium, though other materials and other manufacturing processes may be used.

The top panel 17 of the device 1 has an opening 20 at the mouth end 3 of the device 1 through which, in use, the consumable 21 containing aerosol-generating material is inserted into the device 1 through line A-A and removed from the device 1 by a user through line A-A. In this embodiment, the mouthpiece 2 lb is integral to the consumable arid is configured to be placed between lips of the user's mouth. In other embodiments, an external mouthpiece may be provided wherein at least one volatilised component of the aerosol-generating material is drawn through the mouthpiece. When an external mouthpiece is used, the aerosol-generating material is not provided in the external mouthpiece.

The opening 20 in this embodiment is opened and closed by a door 4. in the embodiment shown, the door 4 is movable between a closed position and an open position to allow for insertion of the consumable 21 into the device 1 when in the open position. The door 4 is configured to move bi-directional ly along an X-axis direction.

In some embodiments, the device I may comprise at least one ventilation opening (not shown) for allowing condensate to escape from the device 1. The at least one ventilation opening is separate to the opening 20 of the device 1. The at least one ventilation opening is to reduce or avoid the presence of condensate in the device 1 so that condensate escapes rather than condensing on the interior of the device I, particularly on portions, such as internal walls, that are heated when the consumable 21 is heated, in use, In some embodiments, the at least one ventilation opening comprises a plurality of holes. In some embodiments, the at least one ventilation opening communicates to the external environment via at least one aperture in the casing 9.

A connection port 6 is shown at the second end 5 of the device I. The connection port 6 is for connection to a cable and a power source 27 (shown in Figure 3) for charging the power source 27 of the device 1. The connection port 6 extends in a Z-axis direction from a front side of die device I to a rear side of the device I. As shown in Figure 3, the connection port 6 is accessible on a right-side of the device 1 at the second end 5 of the device 1. Advantageously, the device I may stand on the second end 5 whilst charging or to provide a data connection through the connection port 6. In the embodiment shown, the connection port 6 is a USB socket.

Figure 2 arid Figure 3 show schematic front cross-sectional views of the device I with the consumable inserted and withdrawn, respectively through line A-A of the device I as showm in Figure I. As shown in Figure 3, the casing 9 has located or fixed therein a heater arrangement 23, control circuitry 25 and the power source 27. In this embodiment, the control circuitry 25 is part of an electronics compartment. In this embodiment, the control circuitry 25 and the power source 27 are laterally adjacent to the heater arrangement 23 (that is, adjacent when viewed from an end), with the control circuitry 25 being located below the power source 27. Advantageously, this allows the device 1 to be compact in a lateral direction, corresponding to the X-axis direction.

The control circuitry 25 in this embodiment includes a controller, such as a microprocessor arrangement, configured and arranged to control the heating of the aerosol-generating material in the consumable 21, as discussed thither below.

The power source 27 in this embodiment is a rechargeable battery. In other embodiments, a non-rechargeable battery, a capacitor, a battery-capacitor hybrid, or a connection to a mains electricity supply may be used. Examples of suitable batteries include for example a lithium-ion battery, a nickel battery (such as a nickel-cadmium batten), an alkaline battery and/ or the like. The battery 27 is electrically coupled to the heater arrangement 23 to supply electrical power when required and under control of the control circuitry 25 to heat the aerosol-generating material in the consumable (as discussed, to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material without causing the aerosol-generating material to burn).

In one embodiment, the heater arrangement 23 is generally in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube, having a hollow interior heating chamber 29 into which the consumable 21 comprising the aerosol-generating material is inserted for heating, in use. Broadly speaking, the heating chamber 29 is a heating zone for receiving the consumable 21. Different arrangements for the heater arrangement 23 are possible, in some embodiments, the heater arrangement 23 may comprise a single heating clement or may be formed of plural heating elements aligned along the longitudinal axis of the heater arrangement 23. The or each heating element may be annular or tubular, or at least part-annular or part-tubular around its circumference, in an embodiment, the or each heating element may be a thin-film heater. In another embodiment, the or each heating element may be made of a ceramics material. Examples of suitable ceramics materials include alumina and aluminium nitride and silicon nitride ceramics, which may be laminated and sintered.

Other heater arrangements are possible, including for example inductive heating, infrared heater elements, which heat by emitting infrared radiation, or resistive heating elements formed by for example a resistive electrical winding.

In this embodiment, the heater arrangement 23 is supported by a stainless-steel support tube 75 and comprises a heater 71. In one embodiment, the heater 71 may comprise a substrate in which at least one electrically conductive element is formed. The substrate may be in the form of a sheet and may comprise for example a plastics layer. in a preferred embodiment the layer is a polyimide layer. The electrically conductive element/s may be printed or otherwise deposited in the substrate layer. The electrically conductive element's may be encapsulated within or coated with the substrate.

The support tube 75 is a heating element that transfers heat to the consumable 21. The support tube 75 comprises therefore heating material. In this embodiment, the heater material is stainless-steel. In other embodiments, other metallic materials may be used as the heating material. For example, the heating material may comprise a metal or a metal alloy. The heating material may comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of: aluminium, gold, iron, nickel, cobalt conductive carbon, graphite, steel, plain-carbon steel, mild steel, ferritic stainless-steel, molybdenum, copper, and bronze.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-3, the heater 71 is an external heater in that heater 71 is positioned externally of the consumable 21, in use. in some embodiments, the heater may be an internal heater for example a male member that is configured to penetrate the consumable when the consumable is inserted into the non-combustible aerosol provision device. Examples of such male members include a pin, rod, or blade (not shown). When configured as a blade the male member may be referred to as a blade heater. In embodiments where the device comprises an internal heater, the male member may extend within or into the heating chamber of the device and may be referred to as a protruding heater.

In embodiments where the heating arrangement is for inductive heating, the male member may be a susceptor. in such embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise a magnetic field generator comprising a coil and a device for passing a varying electrical current, such as an alternating current, through the coil so as to cause the coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. When the consumable is suitably located in the device, an alternating magnetic field is produced by the coil that is caused to penetrate heating material of the susceptor.

The heater arrangement 23 is dimensioned so that substantially the whole of the aerosol-generating material when the consumable 21 is inserted in the device 1 so that substantially the whole of the aerosol-generating material is heated in use In some embodiments, the or each heating element may be arranged so that selected zones of the aerosol-generating material can be independently heated, for example in turn (over time) or together (simultaneously) as desired.

The heater arrangement 23 in this embodiment is surrounded along at least part of its length by a vacuum region 31. The vacuum region 31 helps to reduce heat passing from the heater arrangement 23 to the exterior of the device 1. This helps to keep down the power requirements for the heater arrangement 23 as it reduces heat losses generally. The vacuum region 31 also helps to keep the exterior of the device 1 cool during operation of the heater arrangement 23. In some embodiments, the vacuum region 31 may be surrounded by a double-walled sleeve wherein the region between the two walls of the double-walled sleeve has been evacuated to provide a low-pressure region so as to minimise heat transfer by conduction and/or convection. In other embodiments, another insulating arrangement may be used, for example using heat insulating materials, including for example a suitable foam-type material, in addition to or instead of a vacuum region.

The casing 9, sometimes referred to as a housing, may fiirther comprise various internal support structures 37 (best seen in Figure 3) for supporting all internal components, as well as the heater arrangement 23.

The device 1 further comprises a collar 33 which extends around and projects from the opening 20 into the interior of the casing 9 and an expansion element 35 which is located between the collar 33 and one end of the vacuum region 31. The expansion element 35 is a funnel that forms an expansion chamber 40 at the mouth end 3 of the device 1. The collar 33 is a retainer for retaining the consumable 21 (as is best shown in Figure 2). In this embodiment, the retainer is reversibly removable from the device I. One end of the expansion element 35 connects to and is supported by the casing 9 and the other end of the expansion element 35 connects to and is support by one end of a cassette 51. A first sealing element 55, shown as an o-ring, is interposed between the expansion element 35 and the casing 9, and a second sealing element 57, also shown as an o-ring, is interposed between the expansion element 35 and the cassette 51. Each o-ring is made of silicone, however, other elastomeric materials may be used to provide the seal. The first and second sealing elements 55, 57 prevent the transmission of gas into surrounding components of the device 1. Sealing elements are also provided at the distal end to prevent fluid ingress and egress at the distal end As best seen in Figure 3, the collar 33, the expansion element 35 and the vacuum region 31/heater arrangement 23 are arranged co-axially, so that, as best seen in Figure 2, when the consumable 21 is inserted in the device 1, the consumable 21 extends through the collar 33 and the expansion element 35 into the heating chamber 29.

As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the heater arrangement 23 is generally in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube. The heating chamber 29 formed by this tube is in fluid communication with the opening 20 at the mouth end 3 of the device 1 via the expansion chamber 40.

In this embodiment, the expansion element 35 comprises a tubular body that has a first open end adjacent the opening 20 and a second open end adjacent the heating chamber 29. The tubular body comprises a first section that extends from the first open end to approximately half away along the tubular body and a second section that extends from approximately half away along the tubular body to the second open end. The first section comprises a flared portion that widens away from the second section. The first section therefore has an internal diameter that tapers outwardly towards the opening first open end The second section has a substantially constant internal diameter.

As best seen in Figure 3, in this embodiment, the expansion element 35 is located between the collar 33 and the vacuum region 31/heater arrangement 23. More specifically, at the second open end, the expansion element 35 is interposed between an end portion of the support tube 75 of the heater arrangement 23 and an inside of the vacuum region 31 so that the second open end of the expansion element 35 engages with the support tube 75 and the inside of the vacuum region 31. At the first open end, the expansion element 35 receives the collar 33 so that legs 59 of the collar 33 project into the expansion chamber 40. Therefore, an inner diameter of the first section of the expansion element 35 is greater than an external diameter of the legs when the consumable 21 is received in the device 1 (see Figure 2) and when no consumable 21 is present.

As is best appreciated from Figure 2, the inner diameter of the first section of the expansion element 35 is larger than the external diameter of the consumable 21. There is therefore an air gap 36 between the expansion element 35 and the consumable 21 when the consumable 21 is inserted in the device 1 over at least part of the length of the expansion element 35 The air gap 36 is around the entire circumference of the consumable 21 in that region.

As best seen in Figure 3, the collar 33 comprises a plurality of legs 59. In this embodiment there are four legs 59, where only three are visible in the view of Figure 3. However, in other embodiments there may be more or fewer than four legs 59. The legs 59 are arranged circumferentially equally spaced around an inner surface of the collar 33 and exist in the expansion chamber 40 when the device I is assembled. In this embodiment, when installed in the device I. the legs 59 are circumferentially equally spaced around the periphery of the opening 20. In one embodiment, there are four legs 59, in other embodiments there may be more or fewer than four legs 59. Each of the legs 59 extend in the Y-axis direction and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the expansion chamber 40 and project into the opening 20. Together, the legs 59 provide a gripping section that grips the consumable 21 in order to correctly position arid retain the portion of the consumable 21 that is within the expansion chamber 40 when the consumable 21 is within the device 1. Between them, the legs 59 gently compress or pinch the consumable 21 in the region or regions of the consumable that arc contacted by the legs 59.

In this embodiment, the legs 59 are fonned integrally with a main body of the collar 33. However, in some embodiments, the legs 59 may be separate components that are attached to the body of the collar 33. The inner diameter of the space formed between the legs 59 in the first, rest position, may be, for example, between 4.8mm and 5mm, and preferably 4.9mm. The legs 59 take up space within the opening 20 such that the open span of the opening 20 at the locations of the legs 59 is less than the open span of the opening 20 at the locations without the legs 59.

The expansion element 35 may be formed of for example a plastics material, including for example polyether ether ketone (PEEK). PEEK has a relatively high melting point compared to most other thermoplastics, and is highly resistant to thermal degradation.

Referring to Figure 3, in this embodiment, the heating chamber 29 communicates with a region 38 of reduced internal diameter towards the distal end 5. This region 38 defines a clean-out chamber 39 formed by a clean-out tube 41. The clean-out tube 41 is a hollow tube that provides an end stop for the consumable 21 passed through the opening at the mouth end 3 (see Figure 2). The clean-out tube 41 is arranged to support and locate the heater arrangement 23.

The device 1 may further comprise a door 61 at the distal end 5 of the device 1 that opens and closes an opening in the bottom panel 19 to provide access to the heating chamber 29. The door 61 pivots about a hinge 63. This access through the door 61 particularly enables the user to clean within the heater arrangement 23 and the heating chamber 29 at the distal end 5. When the door 61 is open, a straight through-bore is provided through the whole device 1 between the opening 20 at the mouth end 3 and an opening at one end of the clean-out chamber at the distal end 5 of the device I. The whole of the interior of the hollow heating chamber 29 is therefore able to be cleaned.

As shown in Figure 3, the top panel 17 generally forms the first end 3 of the casing 9 of the device 1. The top panel 17 supports the collar 33 which defines an insertion point in the form of the opening 20 through which the consumable 21 is removably inserted into the device 1 in use.

The collar 33 extends around and projects from the opening 20 into the interior of the casing 9. In this embodiment, the collar 33 is a distinct element from the top panel 17, and is attached to the top panel 17 through an attachment, such as a bayonet locking mechanism. In other embodiments, an adhesive or screws may be used to couple the collar 33 to the top panel 17. in other embodiments, the collar 33 may be integral with the top panel 17 of the casing 9 so the collar 33 and the top panel 17 form a single piece.

As best appreciated from Figures 5 and 6, open spaces defined by adjacent pairs of legs 59 of the collar 33 and the consumable 21 form ventilation paths 20a around the exterior of the consumable 21. These ventilation paths 20a, allow hot vapours that have escaped from the consumable 21 to exit the device 1 and allow cooling air to flow into the device 1 around the consumable 21. In this embodiment, four ventilation paths are located around the periphery of the consumable 21, which provide ventilation for the device 1. In other embodiments, more or fewer of such ventilation paths 20a may be provided.

Referring again particularly to Figure 2, in this embodiment, the consumable 21 is in the form of a cylindrical rod which has or contains aerosol-generating material 21a at a rear end in a section of the consumable 21 that is within the heater arrangement 23 when the consumable 21 is inserted in the device 1. A front end of the consumable 21 extends from the device 1 and acts as the mouthpiece 2 lb which is an assembly that includes one or more of a filter for filtering aerosol and/or a cooling element 21c for cooling aerosol. The filter/cooling element 21c is spaced from the aerosol-generating material 21a by a space 21d and is also spaced from a tip of mouthpiece assembly 21 b by a further space 2 le. The consumable 21 is circumferentially wrapped in an outer layer (not shown). In this embodiment, the outer layer of the consumable 21 is permeable to allow some heated volatilised components from the aerosol-generating material 21a to escape the consumable 21.

In operation, the heater arrangement 23 will heat the consumable 21 to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material 21a.

The primary flow path for the heated volatilised components from the aerosol-generating material 21a is axially through the consumable 21, through the space 21d, the filter/cooling element 2 lc and the further space 21e before entering a user's mouth through the open end of the mouthpiece assembly 21b. However, some of the volatilised components may escape from the consumable 21 through its permeable outer wrapper and into the space 36 surrounding the consumable 21 in the expansion chamber 40.

It would be undesirable for the volatilised components that flow from the consumable 21 into the expansion chamber 40 to be inhaled by the user, because these components would not pass through the filter/cooling element 21c and would thus be unfiltered and not cooled.

The volume of air surrounding the consumable 21 in the expansion chamber 40 causes at least some of the volatilised components that escape the consumable 21 through its outer layer to cool and condense on the interior wall of the expansion chamber 40 preventing those volatilised components from being possibly inhaled by a user. Condensation can accumulate in the device 1, particularly in the clean-out tube 41 and the expansion chamber 40. Overtime, the condensation results in a build-up of deposits which can affect user experience of the device 1. Deposits can build up, for example, in the clean-out chamber 39, expansion chamber 40, and heating chamber 29, and specifically on internal surfaces of components in these chambers The cooling effect may be assisted by cool air that is able to enter from outside the device 1 into the space 36 surrounding the consumable 21 in the expansion chamber 40 via ventilation paths which allow fluid to flow into and out of the device 1. Some heated volatilised components can escape the consumable 21 through its outer wrapper by not condensing on the internal wall of the expansion chamber 40 and are able to flow safely out of the device 1 via the ventilation paths without being inhaled by a user. However, some condensation will turn into residue and remain in the device 1 after use. Although the expansion chamber 40 and the ventilation paths both aid in reducing the temperature and the content of water vapour composition released in heated volatilised components from the aerosol-generating material, the issue of condensation still exits.

As shown in Figure 3, the support tube 75 is externally wrapped by a heater 71. In this example, the heater 71 is a thin-film heater comprising polyimide and electrically conductive elements. The heater 7 I may comprise a plurality of heating regions that are independently controlled and/or simultaneously controlled. In this example, the heater 71 is formed as a single heater. However, in other embodiments, the heater 71 may be formed of a plurality of heaters aligned along the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber 29. In some embodiments, a plurality of temperature sensors may be used to detect the temperature of the heater 71 and/or support tube.

The support tube 75 in this embodiment is made from stainless-steel to conduct heat from the heater 71 towards the consumable 21 when the consumable 21 is inserted in a heating zone (the heating zone is defined by the thermal conduction region of the support tube 75). In other embodiments, the support tube 75 may be made from a different material, as long as the support tube 75 is thermally conductive. Other heating elements 75 may be used in other embodiments.

For example, the heating element may be a susceptor that is heatable by induction. In this embodiment, the support tube 75 acts as an elongate support for supporting, in use, the consumable 21 comprising aerosol-generating material.

In this embodiment, the heater 71 is located externally of the support tube 75. However, in other embodiments, the heater 71 may be located internally of the support tube 75. The heater 71 in this embodiment comprises a portion that passes outside of the support tube 75 and is referred to herein as a heater tail 73. The heater tail 73 extends beyond the heating chamber 29 and is configured for electrical connection to the control circuitry 25. An electrical current may be provided by the power source 27 to the heater 71 via the control circuitry 25 and the heater tail 73.

As a connection between the heating chamber 29 and the control circuitry 25 is required, it can be difficult to prevent airflow (or the flow of any other fluids) between the heating chamber 29 and the electronics compartment. In this embodiment, a gasket 15 is therefore used to prevent such fluid flow, as shown in Figure 3. The gasket 15 comprises a first seal 15a and a second seal 15b. The gasket 15 surrounds the heater tail 73 and is clamped together by a base 53 and the cassette 51. In the embodiment shown, four fastening members 43 are used to provide the enough force to clamp the base 53 and cassette 51 together and seal off access to and from the chamber 29 at this point. The fastening members 43 are screws that are tightened to a predetermined torque. In other embodiments, different fastening members 43 may be used such as bolts.

Referring to Figure 4, a non-combustible aerosol provision device 100a is shown. The device 100a corresponds to the device 1, as previously discussed in relation to Figures 1 to 3, except for the differences discussed herein The device 100a comprises an aerosol generation zone 110 for receiving a consumable comprising aerosol-generating material. That is, the consumable is to be inserted into the aerosol generation zone 110. An example consumable is the consumable 21 as previously described in relation to Figures 1 and 2.

The device 100a comprises an aerosol generator 120 arranged to generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating material in the aerosol generation zone 110 during at least one session of use of the device 100a. In this embodiment, the at least one session of use refers to when the consumable is present in the aerosol generation zone 110 and is being used by a user. Such use by the user comprises use of the consumable by drawing from the consumable to inhale aerosol from the consumable. The use may further include when the consumable is in preparation for a user to draw from the consumable, and/or when the user has completed drawing from the consumable but the consumable is still in the device 100a. In some embodiments, the at least one session is performed using only a single consumable or plural respective consumables.

The device 100a comprises a collection zone 130a for collecting residue. An example of the residue that is collected by the collection zone 130a is residue produced as a consequence of the at least one session of use of the device 100a and remaining in the device 100a after the at least one session of use.

The device 100a comprises a transportation mechanism 140a to assist in transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone 110 and to the collection zone 130a. Movement of residue in use is schematically represented by the dashed arrows shown parallel to the X-axis direction. In this embodiment, the device 100a comprises an absorbent 150. The absorbent 150 comprises the collection zone 130a and the transportation mechanism 140a. That is, the absorbent serves two functions of assisting in the transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone 110 and collecting the subsequently transported residue. In other embodiments, the transportation mechanism 140a may be additional to the absorbent 150. The residue is to embed in the absorbent 150 and at least partially fill the collection zone 130a. Once the residue has been embedded, the residue can be removed, for example, by burning off the residue.

Advantageously, the device 100a is cleaned automatically without the device 100a being cleaned physically by the user. This allows the user to remain isolated from the cleaning process and ensures repeatability of the cleaning process regardless of the users.

In this embodiment, the absorbent 150 comprises a catalyst. The catalyst is a ceramic or comprises ceramic, in other embodiments, the catalyst is or may comprise a material other than ceramic. in this embodiment, the catalyst is configured to activate at temperature to break down the residue and clean the device 100a, in this embodiment, the activation temperature is around 350 degrees Celsius. In other embodiments, the activation temperature is around 200 degrees Celsius. In other embodiments, the activation temperature is between 200 and 350 degrees Celsius, for example, in this embodiment, the activation temperature is above a temperature range of the at least one session of use. In this embodiment, a maximum temperature of the at least one session of use is between 250 and 280 degrees Celsius, in other embodiments, the maximum temperature of the at least one session of use is less than 350 degrees Celsius. In still other embodiments, the maximum temperature of the at least one session of use may be other than one of the temperatures listed here. For example, the maximum temperature of the at least one session of use may be no more than 500 degrees Celsius, or no more than 400 degrees Celsius, or no more than 300 degrees Celsius. Alternatively, or additionally, the maximum temperature of the at least one session of use may be at least 100 degrees Celsius, or at least 150 degrees Celsius, or at least 200 degrees Celsius.

As shown in Figure 4, the collection zone 130a extends from one end of the aerosol generation zone 110 to another end of the aerosol generation zone 110 in a direction parallel to a Y-axis direction of the device 100a. The one end is a first end 3 and the other end is a second end 5 opposite the first end 3. As described previously, in relation to Figure 1, the first end 3 of devices I, 100a is the mouth end of the respective device I, 100a, and the second ends is the distal end of the respective device 1, 100a In this embodiment, the device 100a is configured to heat the collection zone 130a to remove the residue from the collection zone 130a or at least reduce a quantity of the residue in the collection zone 130a, In this embodiment, the aerosol generator 120 is arranged to heat the collection zone 130a to remove the residue from the collection zone 130a. The aerosol generator 120 is therefore a heater for causing aerosol to be generated by heating aerosol-generating material, such as the aerosol-generating material 21a of the consumable 21 shown in Figure 2, as well as a heater for heating the collection zone 130a. In some embodiments, the heating of the residue by the aerosol generator 120 is provided when the device 100a is charging and connected to an external power supply, such as mains power.

In Figure 4, the aerosol generator 120 of the device 100a is shown to be closer to a centre of the aerosol generation zone 110 than both the transportation mechanism 140a and collection zone 130a is to the centre of the aerosol generation zone 110. However, in other embodiments, the transportation mechanism 140a and collection zone 130a may be closer to the centre of the aerosol generation zone 110 than the aerosol generator 120. For example, the transportation mechanism I40a and collection zone 130a may line the aerosol generation zone 110. That is, the absorbent 150 is configured to act as a liner within an interior of the device 100a, wherein the interior comprises the aerosol generation zone 110. The liner provides a layer of the interior of the device 100a.

In this embodiment, the device 100a comprises a control system 170 configured to control the aerosol generator 120 to generate aerosol in the aerosol generation zone 110 when the consumable is inserted into the aerosol generation zone 110.

In this embodiment, the collection zone 130a is at a side of the aerosol generation zone 110. In other embodiments, the collection zone 130a is provided at a portion of the aerosol generation zone 110 excluding the side of the aerosol generation zone 110. In further embodiments, the collection zone 130a is provided at various portions of the aerosol generation zone 110, including or excluding the side of the aerosol generation zone 110.

In this embodiment, the collection zone 130a is to trap the residue by absorption of the residue. Once the residue is trapped, the residue can be removed from the device 100a. In other embodiments, the collection zone 130a is to receive the residue without trapping the residue.

Referring to Figure 5, an alternative non-combustible aerosol provision device 100b is shown. The device 100b corresponds to the device I. as previously discussed in relation to Figures 1 to 3, except for the differences discussed herein. Furthermore, some features described in relation to the device 100a of Figure 4 are also shown in the alternative device 100b of Figure 5.

These features comprise the same reference numerals. For brevity, only the differences between the devices 1, 100a, 100b are discussed herein.

The device 100b comprises a collection zone 130b for collecting residue. An example of the residue that is collected by the collection zone 130b is residue produced as a consequence of the at least one session of use of the device 100b and remaining in the device 1006 after the at least one session of use.

As shown in Figure 5, the collection zone 130b is closer to the second end 5 of the device 100b than the collection zone 130b is to the first end 3 of the device 100b. That is, the collection zone 130b is arranged away from the mouth end of the device 100b. This allows gravity to assist in the transportation of the residue to the collection zone 130b and encourage the reside towards the collection zone 130b. The use of gravity to assist in the transportation of residue is advantageous because additional power consumption is not required to drive the residue away from the aerosol generation zone 110. In some embodiments, the device 100b may therefore be arranged such that the transportation mechanism 140b always provides a downward angle towards the collection zone 130b when the device 1006 is standing or when the device 100b is lying on a side.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the transportation mechanism 140b comprises a repellent 141. The repellent 141, in this embodiment, is hydrophobic. In this embodiment, a surface of the transportation mechanism 140b is a hydrophobic surface. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic surface may be as a consequence of an artificial physical structure integral to the transportation mechanism 140b. For example, the hydrophobic surface may be as a result of etching, such as by laser, to create a fine texture. In other embodiments, the repellent 141 is a hydrophobic coating that coats the surface of the transportation mechanism 140b. In this embodiment, the repellent 141 comprises a low coefficient of friction, for example a coefficient of friction that is less than or equal to 0.1. In some embodiments, the coefficient of friction may be in the range 0.05 to 0.10. In some embodiments, the repellent 141 may be or comprise a polymer. Advantageously, the transportation mechanism 140b allows residue to accumulate away from the aerosol generation zone 110. This avoids or minimises the detrimental effect of residue in the aerosol generation zone 110.

The repellent 141 is to assist in transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone 110 and to the collection zone 130b. In this embodiment, die aerosol generation zone 110 comprises the transportation mechanism I40b. Movement of residue in use is schematically represented by the dashed arrows shown parallel to the Y-axis direction. This may occur when condensate percolates through or generally traverses down the consumable, when the consumable is present in the aerosol generation zone 110, and then drips from the consumable into the collection zone I30b. Additionally, or alternatively movement of residue may comprise movement of condensate down a surface of the aerosol generation zone 110 outside of the consumable.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the device 100b comprises a receptacle 160 configured to provide at least one portion of the collection zone 130b. The receptacle 160 may be referred to as a bucket. In this embodiment, the collection zone 130b is fluidically connected to the aerosol generation zone 110. In other embodiments, the collection zone 130b and the aerosol generation zone 110 may be fluidically interconnected by an intermediary member, such as a filter or a transportation line. in this embodiment, the receptacle 160 is removable from the rest of the device 100b so as to fluidically disconnect the collection zone I30b from the aerosol generation zone 110, This may facilitate emptying and cleaning of the receptacle 160. Alternatively, a used receptacle 160 may be removed from the device 100b and replaced by a replacement receptacle 160.

In this embodiment, the collection zone 130b is a trap to trap the residue by absorption of the residue by the collection zone 130b. In some embodiments, the collection zone 130b comprises a clay. In other embodiments, the collection zone 130b is to receive the residue without trapping the residue. In this embodiment, the collection zone 130b comprises a chamber to hold the residue. In other embodiments, the collection zone 1306 comprises a sponge-like material to retain the residue In this embodiment, the device 100b comprises a first heater 121 and a second heater 122. The aerosol generator comprises the first heater 121. The first heater 121 is configured to cause aerosol to be generated by the device 100b by heating the aerosol generation zone 110. An example of aerosol-generating material is the aerosol-generating material 21a of the consumable 21, as shown in Figure 2 The second heater 122 is configured to heat the collection zone 130b to remove the residue from the collection zone 130b. In this embodiment, the second heater 122 is to heat the collection zone 130b to remove the residue from the collection zone 130b by pyrolysis. Given that significant power is required to burn off the residue from the collection zone 1306 by pyrolysis, in this embodiment, the device 100b is configured to be connected to an external power source during the heating by the second heater 122. Advantageously, the device 100b is cleaned automatically without the need for physical cleaning by a user.

In this embodiment, the first heater 121 and the second heater 122 are independently controllable. In some embodiments, the first heater 121 may be disabled and inoperable when the second heater 122 is active. In other embodiments, the first heater 121 may provide some heat when the second heater 122 is active.

In this embodiment, the device I 00b comprises a control system 170 configured to control the first heater 121 to heat the aerosol generation zone 110 to a first temperature. The control system 170 is configured to control the second heater 122 to heat the collection zone 130b to a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature of the first heater 121. In this embodiment, the first temperature is a maximum temperature of the at least one session of use, in other embodiments, the first temperature is an average temperature of the at least one session of use. In some embodiments the first temperature comprises a first temperature range. In some embodiments the second temperature comprises a second temperature range. The first temperature range may refer to a temperature range of the at least one session of use.

In this embodiment, the second temperature is around 500 degrees Celsius and is above a temperature range of the at least one session of use. In other embodiments, the second temperature is between 300 and 500 degrees Celsius. In this embodiment, a maximum temperature of the at least one session of use is between 250 and 280 degrees Celsius. In other embodiments, the maximum temperature of the at least one session of use is less than 350 degrees Celsius.

Referring to both Figures 4 and 5, the devices 100a, 100b each comprise a sensing system 180. The sensing system 180 is configured to sense and indicate an absence of a consumable in the aerosol generation zone 110. An example consumable 21 is that shown in Figure 1 and discussed previously. In this embodiment, an absence of the consumable comprises ifill removal of the consumable from the respective device 100a, 100b. This allows the aerosol generation zone to fully communicate with the surround environment in order to release residue from the respective device 100a, 100b.

Each of devices 100a, 100b is configured to heat the respective collection zone 130a, 130b to remove the residue from the respective collection zone 130a, 130b when the respective sensing system 180 indicates absence of the consumable in the aerosol generation zone 110. This ensures that the consumable is not reheated during the cleaning process and does not impede the release of residue from the respective device 100a, 100b.

The second heater 122 of the device 100b, as shown in Figure 5, is configured to heat the collection zone 130b to the second temperature when the sensing system 180 indicates the absence of the consumable in the aerosol generation zone 110. In some embodiments, a delay is introduced from first removal of the consumable to ensure that the user is not intending to start another session of use.

The devices 100a, 100b of Figures 4 and 5 each comprise an opening 112 through which the consumable is insertable into the aerosol generation zone 110. The devices 100a, 100b each comprise a cover 116 for selectively closing the opening 112. The sensing system 180 is configured to indicate a state of the cover 116, such as whether the cover 116 is closed to prevent release of residue through the opening 1 12. In this embodiment, the cover 116 is pivotable about a hinge 114. In other embodiments, the cover may be slidable, such as the door 4 shown in the device 1 of Figure 1.

The devices 100a, 100b are configured to heat the respective collection zones 130a, 130b when the respective sensing systems 180 indicate that the respective openings 112 are at least partially open. Ensuring the respective openings 112 are at least partially open enables heated residue to pass through the opening 112. The partially open opening 112 allows the heated residue to exit the respective devices 100a, 100b.

The devices 100a, 100b of Figures 4 and 5 each comprise a rechargeable power source 190, wherein the devices 100a, 100b are configured to heat the respective collection zones I30a, 130b when the rechargeable power source 190 is being charged. In these embodiments, the rechargeable power source 190 is configured to be charged by external power, such as mains electricity or an external power source, in some embodiments, the devices 100a, 100b comprise a connection port, such as the connection port 6 shown in Figures 1 and 3. An electrical connection may therefore be made between each of the respective rechargeable power sources 190 to external power through the connection port 6.

During cleaning, the respective devices 100a, 100b are configured to alert the user that cleaning is taking place. This may occur by visual, audible or mechanical feedback to the user. in some embodiments, the mechanical feedback comprises haptic feedback. The feedback may be temporary, for example if a consumable is attempted to be inserted into the device 100a, 100b or if the user attempts to start at least one session of use of the device 100a, 100b.

In some embodiments, the device 100a, 100b indicates to a user that the device 100a, 100b requires cleaning. A session of use may not be available to a user until the device 100a, 100b is cleaned. This forces the user to clean the device 100a, 100b to increase longevity of the device 100a, 100b.

Figure 6 shows a non-combustible aerosol provision system 200 comprising a consumable 210 comprising aerosol-generating material, and a non-combustible aerosol provision device 205.

A suitable consumable 210 is the consumable 21 as previously described in relation to Figure 2. A suitable non-combustible aerosol provision device 205 is one of the devices 100a, 100b as previously described in relation to Figures 4 and 5, respectively.

Referring to Figure 7, a method 300 of removing residue from a non-combustible aerosol provision device is shown. The residue is produced as a consequence of at least one session of use of the device and remains in the device after the at least one session of use. The method 300 is applicable to any one of the non-combustible aerosol provision devices 100a, 100b as previously discussed.

Ile method 300 comprises assisting 301, by a transportation mechanism of the noncombustible aerosol provision device, transportation of the residue away from an aerosol generation zone of the device and to a collection zone of the device. The method 300 comprises collecting 302, in the collection zone, the residue that is transported by assistance of the transportation mechanism. The method 300 comprises heating 303, by the device, the residue in the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone.

In some embodiments, the assisting 301 comprises assisting. by an absorbent of the device. in the transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone. Examples of such an absorbent are described above in relation to the device 100a of Figure 4. In other embodiments, the assisting 30 I comprises assisting, by a repellent of the device, in the transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone. Examples of such a repellent are described above in relation to the device 100b of Figure 5.

In general, the use of heat to remove residue is advantageous and convenient. Sticky deposits within the non-combustible aerosol provision device can be difficult to remove. Heat allows the deposits to degrade when exposed to heat such that internal bonds are broken and an adhesion force of the deposit to the device is decreased. Any remnants remaining in the noncombustible aerosol provision can affect an efficiency of the device. Therefore, the removal of such renmants improves usability of the device. For example, the performance and overall lifetime of a rechargeable power source of the device is increased because the rechargeable power source requires less charging. Further, the generation of aerosol by the device is quicker and more efficient because the residue no longer acts against this.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" includes materials that provide volatilised components, for example upon heating, typically in the form of vapour or an aerosol. "Aerosol-generating material" may be a non-tobacco-containing material or a tobacco-containing material. "Aerosol-generating material" may, for example, include one or more of tobacco per se, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenised tobacco or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol-generating material can be in the form of ground tobacco, cut rag tobacco, extruded tobacco, liquid, gel, gelled sheet, powder, or agglomerates. "Aerosol-generating material" also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. "Aerosol-generating material" may comprise one or more hurnectants, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

Aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants. The aerosol-generating material may comprise an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e. non-fibrous). In sonic embodiments, 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 cases, the aerosol-generating material comprises from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid. in some cases, the aerosol-generating material consists of amorphous solid.

The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances ancUor flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other fiunctional materials In some cases, the aerosol-generator may comprise a heater that may heat, without burning, the aerosol-generating material to between 120°C and 350°C in use. in some cases, the heater may heat, without burning, the aerosol-generating material to between 140°C and 250°C in use.

The term "residue" is used herein to define unwanted material. The residue may be referred to as detritus or waste. The residue is associated with use of a consumable with a non-combustible aerosol provision device. For example, as a consequence of use of the device, remnants of the consumable or remnants originating from the consumable may remain in the device once a spent consumable is absent from the device. An example of a remnant is a flavourant such as tobacco. Remnants originating from the consumable comprise substances produced as a result of generating aerosol from the aerosol-generating material that remain in the device following use of die consumable. Any such remnants may initially be in a fluid state, such as a liquid, and solidify to a solid state. Any such remnants may be considered loose material when in the device. That is, the loose material is unrestricted on surface contact with the device and moves freely within the device. Other such remnants may at least partially adhere to the device on surface contact and not move freely within the device. During use of the device condensate is produced that becomes residue that remains in the device after use. The residue may therefore originate from condensate.

Such residue may be referred to as condensate residue The residue may comprise organic and/or inorganic matter.

For the avoidance of doubt, where in this specification the term "comprises" is used in defining the invention or features of the invention, embodiments are also disclosed in which die invention or feature can be defined using the terms "consists essentially of' or "consists of' in place of "comprises". Reference to a material "comprising" certain features means that those features are included in, contained in. or held within the material.

The above embodiments are to be imderstood as illustrative examples of the invention. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.

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

CLAIMSA non-combustible aerosol provision device comprising: an aerosol generation zone for receiving a consumable comprising aerosol-generating material; an aerosol generator for generating aerosol from the aerosol-generating material in the aerosol generation zone during at least one session of use of the non-combustible aerosol provision device; a collection zone for collecting residue produced as a consequence of the at least one session of use and remaining in the non-combustible aerosol provision device after the at least one session of use; and a transportation mechanism to assist in transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone; wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone.
2. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 1, comprising an absorbent, wherein the absorbent comprises the collection zone.
3. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein the absorbent comprises the transportation mechanism.
4. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the absorbent comprises a catalyst.
The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 4, wherein the catalyst is a ceramic.
6. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the collection zone is at a side of the aerosol generation zone.
7. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the aerosol generator is a heater for generating the aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material and is configured to heat the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone.
8. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 1, wherein the collection zone is at an end of the aerosol generation zone.
9. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claim 1 to claim 8, wherein the transportation mechanism comprises a repellent.
10. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 9, wherein the repellent is hydrophobic.
11 The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claim 7 to claim ID. comprising a receptacle configured to provide at least one portion of the collection zone.
12. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim II. wherein the receptacle is removable from the rest of the non-combustible aerosol provision device so as to fluidically disconnect the collection zone from the aerosol generation zone.
13 The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claim 7 to claim 12, wherein: the aerosol generator comprises a first heater configured to generate the aerosol by heating the aerosol generation zone in use, and the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a second heater configured to heat the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone.
14. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 13, comprising a control system configured to: control the first heater to heat the aerosol generation zone to a first temperature; and control the second heater to heat the collection zone to a second temperature higher than the first temperature.
15. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a sensing system configured to sense and indicate an absence of the consumable in the aerosol generation zone; and the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone to remove the residue from the collection zone when the sensing system indicates absence of the consumable in the aerosol generation zone.
16. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to claim 14 and claim 15, wherein the second heater is configured to heat the collection zone to the second temperature when the sensing system indicates the absence of the consumable in the aerosol generation zone.
17. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, comprising: an opening via which the consumable is insertable into the aerosol generation zone; a cover for selectively closing the opening; and a sensing system configured to indicate a state of the cover; wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone when the sensing system indicates that the opening is at least partially open to enable heated residue to pass out of the non-combustible aerosol provision device through the opening.
18. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the aerosol generation zone comprises the transportation mechanism.
19. The non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the non-combustible aerosol provision device comprises a rechargeable power source; and the non-combustible aerosol provision device is configured to heat the collection zone when the rechargeable power source is being charged.
20. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: a consumable comprising aerosol-generating material; and the non-combustible aerosol provision device according to any one of claims Ito 19.
21. A method of removing residue from a non-combustible aerosol provision device, wherein the residue is produced as a consequence of at least one session of use and remains in the noncombustible aerosol provision device after the at least one session of use wherein the method comprises: assisting, by a transportation mechanism of the non-combustible aerosol provis on device, transportation of the residue away from an aerosol generation zone of the noncombustible aerosol provision device and to a collection zone of the non-combustible aerosol provision device; collecting, in the collect transportation mechanism; and heating, by the non-combust stance of the ble aerosol provision device, the residue in the collect on on zone, the residue that s transported by ass zone to remove the residue from the collection zone.
22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the assisting comprises assisting, by an absorbent of the non-combustible aerosol provision device, in the transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone.
23. The method according to claim 21, wherein the assisting comprises assisting, by a repellent of the non-combustible aerosol provision device, in the transportation of the residue away from the aerosol generation zone and to the collection zone.