WO2024084058A1

WO2024084058A1 - Aerosol provision device

Info

Publication number: WO2024084058A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/079324
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Richardson
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Limited
Priority date: 2022-10-21
Filing date: 2023-10-20
Publication date: 2024-04-25
Also published as: TW202423315A; GB202215584D0

Abstract

Aerosol provision device (101) for generating an aerosol from an article (110) comprising an aerosol-generating material. The device comprises: a device body (104); a heating system for heating the article; and a locating element (140) projecting from the device body. The locating element comprises an external surface. The external surface comprises a first surface section (144) with a first roughness, and a second surface section (146) with a second roughness greater than the first roughness. The locating element is configured to be received within the article so that the first surface section and the second surface section contact an inner surface of the article. Also provided is an aerosol provision system comprising the aerosol provision device and an article comprising an aerosol-generating material and a method of using the aerosol provision system.

Description

AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from a removable aerosol-generating article. The present invention also relates to an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device and an aerosol-generating-article, and a method of using the aerosol provision system.

Background

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

Summary

According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising an aerosol-generating material, the device comprising: a device body; a heating system for heating the article; and a locating element, the locating element comprising an external surface, the external surface comprising a first surface section with a first surface roughness, and a second surface section with a second surface roughness greater than the first surface roughness, the locating element configured to be received within the article so that the first surface section and the second surface section contact an inner surface of the article.

Optionally, the locating element projects from the device body.

Optionally, the second surface section is configured to frictionally retain the article on the locating element.

Optionally, the locating element comprises a free end. Optionally, the second surface section is spaced from the free end. Optionally, the first surface section extends from the free end. Optionally, the second surface section provides an anchor to anchor the article.

Optionally, the first surface section and the second surface section are arranged along a length of the locating element. Optionally, the second surface section is closer to the device body than the first surface section.

Optionally, the locating element comprises a base end. Optionally, the second surface section extends from the base end.

Optionally, the second surface section is spaced from the base end.

Optionally, the second surface section extends a minority of the axial length of the locating element. Optionally, the second surface section extends less than 50% of the axial length of the locating element. Optionally, the second surface section extends less than 25% of the axial length of the locating element.

Optionally, the first surface section extends a majority of the axial length of the locating element. Optionally, the first section extends more than 50% of the axial length of the locating element. Optionally, the first surface section extends more than 75% of the axial length of the locating element.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second surface sections comprises a surface roughness which varies along the length of the locating element.

Optionally, the second surface section is a band extending circumferentially around the locating element.

Optionally, at least a portion of the external surface of the locating element is tapered.

Optionally, the second surface section is provided on the tapered portion.

Optionally, the first surface section is disposed between the second surface section and the body.

Optionally, the tapered portion is at the base end of the locating element.

Optionally, the locating element comprises a heater which is heatable by the heating system.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device comprises a heater. Optionally, the heater is a pin heater. Optionally, the heater is a blade heater.

Optionally, the heater comprises a heating section along at least part of a length of the heater.

Optionally, the the heating section is one of a plurality of heating sections spaced along the length of the heater.

Optionally, the plurality of heating sections are independently heatable.

Optionally, the first and second surface sections are discrete from the heating section.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device comprises a support member comprising the first and second surface sections, wherein the heater is on the support member.

Optionally, the device body comprises a housing encircling the locating element and configured to receive the article.

Optionally, the first surface section and second surface section are provided on a one-piece component.

Optionally, the locating element comprises a protruding element and a retaining member. Optionally, the retaining member at least partially surrounds the protruding element. Optionally, the second surface section is provided on the retaining member.

Optionally, the retaining member is a ring or sleeve.

Optionally, the first surface section has an absolute roughness coefficient of between 0.1 and 10 microns. Optionally, the first surface section has an absolute roughness coefficient of between 0.1 and 1 microns. Optionally, the first surface section has an absolute roughness coefficient of 0.5 microns.

Optionally the first surface section is formed of alloy steel.

Optionally, the second surface section has an absolute roughness coefficient of between 10 and 100 microns. Optionally, the second surface section has an absolute roughness coefficient of 50 microns. Optionally, the second surface section comprises a weld. Optionally, the second surface section comprises a turned feature.

Optionally, the locating element is a pin. Optionally, the locating element is a blade.

Optionally, the locating element comprises a coating.

Optionally, the first surface section comprises the coating to provide the first surface roughness.

Optionally, the second surface section is free from the coating.

Optionally, the coating is a low friction coating relative to the surface roughness of the locating element.

Optionally, the coating comprises polytetrafluoroethylene.

Optionally, the second surface section comprises the coating to provide the second surface roughness.

Optionally, the coating is a high friction coating relative to the surface roughness of the locating element.

Optionally, the first surface section is free from the coating.

According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising an aerosol-generating material, the device comprising: a device body; a heating system for heating the article; and a locating element, the locating element comprising an external surface, the external surface comprising a first surface section with a coating to provide a first surface roughness, and a second surface section free from a coating to provide a second surface roughness greater than the first surface roughness, the locating element configured to be received within the article so that the first surface section and the second surface section contact an inner surface of the article.

Optionally, the coating comprises polytetrafluoroethylene.

According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol provision device of any preceding aspect; and an article comprising an aerosol-generating material, the article comprising a cavity defined by an inner surface, wherein the locating element is received within the cavity so that the external surface of the locating element contacts the inner surface of the article.

Optionally, the article comprises a support.

Optionally, the aerosol generating material comprises a gel composition. Optionally, the gel composition is provided on the support. Optionally, the support is a substrate.

Optionally, the support comprises aerosol generating material.

Optionally, the support comprises crimped and gathered aerosol generating material.

Optionally, the support comprises longitudinal strips.

Optionally, the aerosol generating material comprises plant material or extract. Optionally, the aerosol generating material comprises tobacco material or extract.

The aerosol provision device may comprise any of the previously mentioned optional features.

According to an aspect, there is provided a method of using the aerosol provision system of the preceding aspect, the method comprising: receiving the article on the locating element such that the article is in contact with the first surface section, and moving the article along the locating element into subsequent contact with the second surface section.

The aerosol provision system may comprise any of the previously mentioned optional features.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows a schematic part cutaway view of an aerosol provision system with an aerosol provision device inserted into an aerosol provision article; Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision system of Figure 1 with the aerosol-generating article separated from the aerosol provision device;

Figure 3 shows another aerosol provision device;

Figure 4 shows another aerosol provision device;

Figure 5 shows a further aerosol provision device; and

Figure 6 shows a further aerosol provision device.

Detailed Description

As used herein, the term “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. Aerosol-generating material may include any plant based material, such as tobacco-containing material and may, for example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating material also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosolgenerating material may for example be in the form of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax or the like. Aerosol-generating material may for example also be a combination or a blend of materials. Aerosol-generating material may also be known as “smokable material”.

The aerosol-generating material may comprise a binder and an aerosol former. Optionally, an active and/or filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, is also present and one or more other components of the aerosolgenerating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free from botanical material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco free.

The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be an “amorphous solid”. The amorphous solid may be a “monolithic solid”. In some 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 embodiments, 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 aerosol-generating material may comprise an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The aerosol-generating sheet or shredded sheet may be substantially tobacco free.

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

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosolgenerating material is not a requirement.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non- combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non- combustible aerosol provision device.

In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosolgenerating 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.

An aerosol provision device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An “article” in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilise the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol provision device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size that is configured to be placed within or over a heater of the device which is sized to receive the article.

Figures 1 and 2 show an example of an aerosol provision system 100. The system 100 includes an aerosol provision device 101 for generating aerosol from a removable aerosol-generating article 110, and the removable aerosol-generating article 110, which includes an aerosol-generating material. The device 101 can be used to heat the article 110, to generate an aerosol or other inhalable material which can be inhaled by a user of the device 101.

In embodiments, the article 110 is in the form of a rod of aerosol generating material. In embodiments, the article 110 comprises a support. The support in embodiments is a substrate. The support in embodiments comprises the aerosol generating material.

The aerosol generating material may be crimped and gathered aerosol generating material. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in the form of longitudinal strips. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises plant material or extract. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises tobacco material or extract.

The device 101 includes a device body 104. The device body 104 includes a housing 103 which surrounds and houses various components of the device 101. The housing 103 is elongate. The device body 104 may include a chassis and other components forming part of the device 101.

A locating element 140 extends from the housing 103. The locating element 140 is configured to be received within the aerosol-generating article 110. The locating element 140 projects from the device body 104. The device body 104 forms a base from which the locating element 140 projects.

The device 101 defines a longitudinal axis 102, along which the aerosol- generating-article 110 may extend when positioned over the locating element 140. The locating element 140 is aligned on the longitudinal axis 102. The end 109 of the locating element 140 distal from the device housing 103 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) 109 of the device 101 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. The end 109 of the locating element 140 defines an axial extent of the device 101 along the longitudinal axis 102. The end 109 of the locating element 140 is therefore a free end.

The locating element 140 defines an external surface 142. In this example, the locating element 140 is sized and shaped to be received within an elongate core 112 of the aerosol-generating article 110. The elongate core 112 of the aerosol generating article 110 defines a cavity for receiving the locating element 140. The cavity is open at an insertion end. The cavity has a closed end. The elongate core 112 of the aerosol generating article 110 defines an inner surface 114. In embodiments, the inner surface 114 comprises a paper based material. In embodiments, the inner surface 114 comprises a paper/foil laminate. When the locating element 140 is received in the elongate core 112 of the article 110, the external surface 142 of the locating element 140 abuts the inner surface 114 of the elongate core 112 of the article 110. In examples, the article 110 does not comprise an elongate core 112. In such examples, the article 110 is a solid body. That is the article 110 is free from a preformed bore into which the locating element is received. In such examples, the locating element 140 is configured to penetrate the article 110. In such examples, the locating element 140 may have a tapered tip.

The device 101 comprises a heater 107. In embodiments, the heater 107 forms the locating element 140. In embodiments, the heater 107 is a pin. That is, the heater 107 in embodiments is an elongate member. The pin heater may be cylindrical, or another regular shape in cross section in which the width in a first direction is substantially the same as a width in a second transverse direction. In embodiments, the heater 107 is a blade. That is, the heater 107 in embodiments is an elongate member with a width in a first direction greater than a width in a second transverse direction.

For example, the length of the heater 107 may be greater than or equal to 15mm, the width of the heater 107 may be greater than or equal to 5 mm and the thickness of the heater 107 may be less than or equal to 3 mm.

The blade heater or the pin heater in embodiments has a tapered or sharpened end. This may aid the heater 107 to be pushed into a solid mass of aerosol generating material. In embodiments, the heater 107 is a resistive pin heater or a resistive blade heater.

The heater 107 comprises a plurality of heating sections 136. In examples, the heating sections 136 are disposed in the locating element 140. The heating sections 136 are spaced along a length of the locating element 140. In this example, the heating sections 136 are evenly distributed along the length of the locating element 140. In other examples, the heating sections 136 are unevenly distributed along the length of the locating element 140. The heating sections 136 are independently heatable. The heating sections may be operable to provide progressive heating of the aerosol generating material. For example, the heating sections may be operable to heat a distal portion of aerosol generating material before or more quickly than a proximal portion of aerosol generating material. Alternatively, the heating sections may be operable to heat a proximal portion of aerosol generating material before or more quickly than a distal portion of aerosol generating material. This may provide an improved user experience, such as by avoiding over-heating of portions of aerosol generating material which may cause undesirable tastes in the generated aerosol.

The heater 107 may include various components to heat the aerosolgenerating material of the aerosol-generating article 110 via an inductive heating process or a resistive heating process, for example.

Resistive heating utilises the Joule heating effect arising from the electrical resistance of a material in response to application of a current directly therethrough.

Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conducting heating element (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may comprise an inductive element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying electric current, such as an alternating electric current, through the inductive element. The varying electric current in the inductive element produces a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor suitably positioned with respect to the inductive element, and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor.

The susceptor has electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and hence the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Joule heating. In cases where the susceptor comprises ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e. by the varying orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the varying magnetic field. In inductive heating, as compared to heating by conduction for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating. Further, there need not be any physical contact between the inductive element and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced freedom in construction and application.

The susceptor may be included in the locating element 140, for example positioned on the external surface 142 of the locating element 140. The susceptor may define the or at least a part of the locating element 140. The susceptor may define the entire locating element 140. In other examples, the susceptor may be included in the aerosol-generating article 110, for example positioned on a surface of the elongate core 112 such that the susceptor directly contacts the locating element 140 when the aerosol-generating article 110 is positioned on the device The heater 107 may comprise a magnetic field generator. The magnetic field generator is configured to generate one or more varying magnetic fields that penetrate the susceptor so as to cause heating in the susceptor. The magnetic field generator includes an inductor coil arrangement. The inductor coil arrangement comprises an inductor coil, acting as an inductor element. The inductor coil is a helical coil, however other arrangements are envisaged. In examples, the inductor coil arrangement comprises two or more inductor coils. The two or more inductor coils in embodiments are disposed adjacent to each other and may be aligned coaxially along the axis.

In some examples, in use, the inductor coil is configured to heat the susceptor to a temperature of between about 200 °C and about 350 °C, such as between about 240°C and about 300°C, or between about 250°C and about 280°C.

The inductor coil may be a helical coil comprising electrically-conductive material, such as copper. The coil is formed from wire, such as Litz wire, which is wound helically around a support member. In embodiments, the support member is omitted. The support member is tubular. The coil defines a generally tubular shape. The inductor coil has a generally circular profile. In other embodiments, the inductor coil may have a different shape, such as generally square, rectangular or elliptical. The coil width may increase or decrease along its length.

Other types of inductor coil may be used, for example a flat spiral coil. With a helical coil it is possible to define an elongate inductor zone in which to receive a susceptor, which provides an elongate length of susceptor to be received in the elongate inductor zone. The length of susceptor subjected to varying magnetic field may be maximised. By providing an enclosed inductor zone with a helical coil arrangement it is possible to aid the flux concentration of the magnetic field.

Litz wire comprises a plurality of individual wires which are individually insulated and are twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wires are designed to reduce the skin effect losses in a conductor. Other wire types could be used, such as solid. The configuration of the helical inductor coil may vary along its axial length. For example, the inductor coil, or each inductor coil, may have substantially the same or different values of inductance, axial lengths, radii, pitches, numbers of turns, etc. The device 101 may include a user-operable control element, such as a button or switch 106, which operates the device 101 when operated, e.g. pressed. For example, a user may activate the device 101 by pressing the switch 106.

In use, a user places an aerosol-generating article 110 over the locating element 140, operates the user control to begin heating the aerosol-generating material in the aerosol-generating article 110 and draws on the aerosol generated in the aerosol-generating article 110. This causes the aerosol to flow through the aerosol-generating article 110 along one or more flow paths 120 towards the proximal end 109 of the device 101.

The end of the device housing 103 distal from the locating element 140 may be known as the distal end 108 of the device 101 because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows in a direction towards the proximal end of the device 101. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of the device 101 will be described by reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to each other in a proximal-distal direction along the axis 102.

The device 101 may further include a controller (control circuit), and a power source housed within the device housing 103. The heater 107 is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material of the aerosol-generating article 110 when positioned over the locating element 140, such that an aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating material. The power source supplies electrical power to the heater 107, and the heater 107 converts the supplied electrical energy into heat energy for heating the aerosol-generating material.

The power source may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, a lithium battery (such as a lithium-ion battery), a nickel battery (such as a nickel-cadmium battery), and an alkaline battery.

The power source may be electrically coupled to the heater 107 to supply electrical power when required and, under control of the controller, to heat the aerosol- generating material of the aerosol-generating article 110. The control circuit may be configured to activate and deactivate the heater 107 based on a user operating the control element. For example, the controller may activate the heater 107 in response to a user operating the switch 106. In the present example, the article 110 is generally cylindrical with a generally cylindrical elongate core 112, and the locating element 140 is correspondingly generally cylindrical in shape. However, other shapes may also be suitable.

The aerosol-generating article 110 may comprise one or more conduits that form part of the flow path 120. In use, the distal end of the aerosol-generating article 110 may be positioned in proximity or engagement with a base (or distal end) of the locating element 140. Air may pass through the one or more conduits forming part of the flow path 120, into the aerosol-generating article 110, and flow through the article 110 towards the proximal end of the device 101.

The external surface 142 of the locating element 140 comprises a first surface section 144 with a first roughness, and a second surface section 146 with a second roughness greater than the first roughness. The second surface section 146 has a larger coefficient of friction with the inner surface 114, compared to the first surface section 144. The inner surface 114 of the elongate core 112 of the article 110 may slide over the first surface section 144 more easily than it may slide over the second surface section 146.

In an example, the first surface section 144 is a smooth surface section and the second surface section 146 is textured. In an example, one or both of the first surface section 144 and second surface section 146 comprises a roughness which varies along the length of the locating element 140. In an example, the external surface 142 comprises a roughness which varies continually along the length of the locating element 140.

In embodiments, the first surface section 144 has an absolute roughness coefficient of between 0.1 and 1 microns. In embodiments, the first surface section 144 has an absolute roughness coefficient of 0.5 microns.

In embodiments, the first surface section 144 is formed of alloy steel.

In embodiments, the locating element 140 comprises a coating. The first surface section 144 comprises the coating to provide the first surface roughness. The second surface section is free from the coating. The coating provides a relatively low surface roughness on the locating element 140. The relatively low surface roughness of the locating element 140 reduces the friction between the locating element 140 and the article 110, for example between the locating element 140 and the substrate of the article 110. This may facilitate insertion and removal of the locating element 140 into the substrate. The reduced friction between the locating element 140 and the article 110 may avoid or reduce displacement of aerosol generating material from the article 110 during removal of the locating element 140 from the article 110. This may improve hygiene during use of the aerosol provision system 100.

In embodiments, the first surface section 144 comprises the low friction coating. The low friction coating may provide the relatively low first roughness. The coating may comprise polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The coating may reduce friction between the locating element and the article 110. The second surface section 146 provides an anchor to aid retention of the article.

In embodiments, the second surface section comprises a coating to provide the second surface roughness, and the first surface section is free from the coating. The coating in such an arrangement is a high friction coating relative to the surface roughness of the locating element.

In embodiments, the second surface section has an absolute roughness coefficient of between 10 and 100 microns. In embodiments, the second surface section has an absolute roughness coefficient of 50 microns.

In embodiments, the second surface section comprises a weld. In embodiments, the second surface section comprises a turned feature.

The locating element 140 is configured to be received within the article 110 so that the first surface section 144 and the second surface section 146 contact the inner surface 114 of the article 110. In examples in which the heating sections 136 are disposed in the locating element 140, heat may therefore be efficiently transferred to the article 110.

The second surface section 146 is configured to retain the article 110 on the locating element 140. The article 110 forms a friction fit with the second surface section 146 when the locating element 140 is fully received in the article 110.

The locating element 140 may be considered fully received in the article 110 when it is not possible to move the locating element 140 further into the article 110. In examples, the proximal end 109 of the device 101 may contact an end of the elongate core 112 of the article 110 when the locating element 140 is fully received in the article 110. In examples, a proximal end of the article 110 may abut the device body 104 when the locating element 140 is fully received in the article 110.

The article 110 is securely held on the locating element 140 by the frictional engagement with the second surface section 146 when the locating element 140 is fully received in the article 110. It will be understood that it is still possible to remove the article 110 from the locating element 140, but the frictional engagement of the article 110 with the second surface section 146 aids retention. The second surface section 146 offers resistance to axial movement of the article 110 along the locating element 140. The article 110 is therefore less likely to be accidentally removed from the locating element 140 during use. For example, the second surface section 146 offers greater resistance to removal of the article 110 than the weight of the article 110. The article 110 therefore cannot fall off the locating element 140 due to gravity.

Once the resistance offered by the second surface section 146 is overcome, the article 110 slides more easily along the first surface section 144 for easy removal.

The first surface section 144 and the second surface section 146 are arranged along a length of the locating element 140. The second surface section 146 is closer to the device body 104 than the first surface section 144. The second surface section 146 is at the distal end 109 of the locating element 140. The second surface section 146 may help to anchor the article 110 in place relative to the locating element 140. The first surface section 144 is at the proximal end 109 of the locating element 140. The second surface section 146 is adjacent to the device body 104.

In embodiments, the inner surface 114 comprises a retaining feature (not shown). The retaining feature may be for example an embossed portion of the inner surface 114 or a crimp on the inner surface 114. The retaining feature is arranged to contact the second surface section 146 when the article 110 is retained on the locating element 140. The retaining feature increases the frictional interaction between the second surface section 146 and the inner surface 114 of the article 110.

The second surface section 146 is between the first surface section 144 and the device body 104. When the locating element 140 is inserted into the elongate core 112 of the article 110, the first surface section 144 contacts the inner surface 114 of the article 110 before the second surface section 146. The article 110 may therefore slide along the locating element 140 in the axial direction 102 before contacting the second surface section 146. This allows the article 110 to be easily moved along the locating element 140 before engaging the second surface section 146. It also reduces the chance that the inner surface 114 of the article 110 is damaged by contact with the second surface section 146. Such damage may lead to aerosol generating material becoming dislodged, which may reduce hygiene during use of the aerosol provision system 100.

The first surface section 144 extends around a circumference of the locating element 140. In examples, the first surface section 144 and/or the second surface section 146 do not extend around the entire circumference of the locating element 140. For example, the second surface section 146 may form axial striations on the locating element 140 or may comprise a plurality of separate areas. In such examples, the second surface section 146 may include areas between the striations of the second surface section 146. The second surface section 146 may therefore comprises portions of differing roughness. At least a first portion may comprise the same or similar roughness to the first surface section, with a second portion having a greater roughness. A proximal portion of the locating element 140 which is free or at least substantially free from the second surface section 146. The second surface section 146 extends around a circumference of the locating element 140. The first surface section 144 and second surface section 146 have the same diameter. This may simplify manufacturing of the locating element. The first surface section 144 and the second surface section 146 define axial regions of the locating element 140. The first surface section 144 and the second surface section 146 together cover the entire axial extent of the locating element 140. The first surface section 144 and the second surface section 146 together define the entire external surface 142 of the locating element 140. In other examples, the external surface 142 may comprise further surface sections.

The first surface section 144 extends along a majority of the axial extent of the locating element 140. In examples, the first surface section extends along greater than half, greater than two thirds, greater than three quarters or greater than 85% of the axial extent of the locating element 140.

The first surface section 144 and second surface section 146 are provided as part of a one-piece component. That is, the first surface section 144 and second surface section 146 are defined by portions of the surface of the locating element 140, and the locating element 140 is a single component. In examples, the heating sections 136 are disposed within the locating element 140. In examples, the heating sections 136 are a part of the locating element 140.

As used herein, one-piece component refers to a component which is not separable into two or more components following assembly. Integrally formed relates to two or more features that are formed into a one-piece component during a manufacturing stage of the component.

Figure 3 shows another example of an aerosol provision device 101. The aerosol provision device 101 is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2 and like reference numerals have been used. The aerosol provision device 101 of Figure 3 is suitable for use with the article 110.

In the aerosol provision device of Figure 3, the locating element 140 is the heater. The heater is a susceptor. The first surface section 144 and second surface section 146 are provided on a surface of the susceptor. In embodiments, the heater is a resistive heater. In embodiments, the locating element 140 comprises a support and the heater is provided on the support. The first surface section 144 and/or second surface section 146 may be provided on the heater or on the support.

Figure 4 shows another example of an aerosol provision device 101. The aerosol provision 101 device is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2 and like reference numerals have been used. The aerosol provision device 101 of Figure 4 is suitable for use with the article 110.

The locating element 140 of the aerosol provision device 101 of Figure 4 comprises a protruding element 151 and a retaining member 152. The retaining member 152 at least partially surrounds the protruding element 151. The second surface section 146 is provided on the retaining member 152.

The retaining member 152 has an annular cross section. In examples, the retaining member 152 is a ring or sleeve. The retaining member 152 is joined to the protruding element 151 to prevent movement of the retaining member 152 along the axial direction 102 relative to the protruding element 151 when the locating element 140 is withdrawn from the article 110. In examples, the retaining member 152 is joined to the protruding element 151 by a friction fit, an adhesive, or a mechanical fixing such as a bayonet or screw mechanism. In examples, an outer surface of the retaining member 152 is proud of an outer surface of the protruding element 151. In examples, the inner core 112 of the article 110 is profiled to accommodate the retaining member 152. In examples, the retaining member 152 is flush with an outer surface of the protruding element 151.

Figure 5 shows another example of an aerosol provision device 101. The aerosol provision 101 device is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2 and like reference numerals have been used. The aerosol provision device 101 of Figure 5 is suitable for use with the article 110.

In the aerosol provision device 101 of Figure 5, the housing 104 further comprises a housing portion 160 extending from the device body 104. The housing portion 160 encircles the locating element 140. The housing portion 160 overlaps the locating element 140. The housing portion 160 is configured to receive the article 110. The housing portion 160 defines a heating zone 162 configured and dimensioned to receive the article 110 to be heated. In the present example, the article 110 is generally cylindrical, and the heating zone 162 is correspondingly generally cylindrical in shape. However, other shapes would be possible. The housing portion 160 is a cylindrical member. The housing portion 160 is concentric with the locating element 140. The heating zone 162 is defined by the inner surfaces of the housing portion 160. The housing portion 160 extends along and around and substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis 102 of the device 101. However, other shapes would be possible. The housing portion 160 (and so heating zone 162) is open at its proximal end such that an article 110 inserted into an opening of the housing portion 160 can be received in the heating zone 162 therethrough. The housing portion 160 is closed at its distal end by the device body 104.

The housing portion 160 reduces the likelihood of the user unintentionally touching the locating element after use, when the locating element may be hot and may burn the user if touched.

In examples, the heater 107 is disposed in the housing portion 160. In examples, the heater 107 projects from the device body 104. In examples, the heating sections 136 are disposed in the housing. In examples, the heater 107 comprises a heating element which is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field and an inductor coil. The heating element may be disposed in the housing portion 160. The heating element may be a tubular member. The article 110 may be receivable in the heating element.

Figure 6 shows another example of an aerosol provision device 101. The aerosol provision device 101 is generally similar to that of Figures 1 and 2 and like reference numerals have been used. The aerosol provision device 101 of Figure 6 is suitable for use with the article 110.

A portion of the external surface 142 of the locating element 140 is tapered. In examples, the entire external surface 142 of the locating element 140 is tapered.

The locating element 140 comprises a peripheral wall 150. The peripheral wall 150 extends around the locating element 140. The peripheral wall 150 extends between a distal end of the locating element and the proximal end 109. The peripheral wall 150 defines a longitudinal side of the locating element 140. The peripheral wall 150 forms the side wall or face of the locating element 150. The external surface 142 of the locating element 140 is defined by the peripheral wall 150. The peripheral wall 150 is elongate and a substantive portion of the peripheral wall 150 is tapered in a longitudinal direction of the locating element 140. The peripheral wall 150 has a length in the longitudinal axis of between 10mm and 30mm. Optionally, the length of the peripheral wall 150 is between 15mm and 25mm.

The peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 30 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the locating element 140. Optionally, the peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 15 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the locating element 140. Optionally, the peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 15 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the locating element 140. Optionally, the peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of up to 5 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the locating element 140. In embodiments, the peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of greater than 5 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the locating element to form the taper. Optionally, the peripheral wall 150 extends at an angle of greater than 10 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the locating element 140 to form the taper.

By providing a tapered member it is possible to aid with providing progressive heating of the article 110. It will be understood that the rate of heating of the heating sections 136 and the area of the heating sections 136 exposed to the aerosol-generating material will taper in the longitudinal direction and so may help progressive generation of vapour. Heat transfer across the aerosol-generating material of the article 110 may be relatively faster at the distal end and relatively slower towards the proximal end.

In examples, the inner surface 114 of the aerosol generating article 110 is tapered. The inner surface 114 tapers from the open end to the closed end. The peripheral wall 150 of the locating element 140 and the inner surface 114 of the article 110 are complimentary sized to form a contact fit. The inner surface 114 is configured to form a close contact with the locating element 140 to maximise heat transfer between the locating element 140 and the article 110. In embodiments where the configuration of the locating element varies, the elongate core 112 of the article 110 is provided as a complimentary cavity. The cavity is tapered.

By providing a tapered arrangement, it is possible to aid location of the article 110 with the locating element 140. In a co-axial arrangement with the article 110, the arrangement is able to self-centre and so aids alignment on insertion. Accordingly, the contact between locating element 140 and article 110 may be improved and so consistency of heating along the length of the locating element 140 may be maximised. By providing a tapered profile, the robustness of the locating element 140 may be aided.

The proximal end 109 of the locating element 140 in the present embodiment extends to a tip. The tip is formed by the peripheral wall 150. In examples the proximal end 109 is blunt. The locating element 140 is conical. The shape of the locating element 140 may differ. The locating element 140, or at least the portion of the locating element formed by the peripheral wall 150, in examples has another pyramidal shape. The locating element 140 in examples is a frustum shape. In examples, the locating element 140 is a truncated cone. An end surface may be provided at the proximal end 109 of the locating element 140. The end surface extends transverse to the longitudinal axis of the locating element 140. In such an embodiment, the inner core 112 of the article 110 comprises a complimentary shape.

The second surface section 146 is provided on the peripheral wall 150. The second surface section 146 is provided at the proximal end of the peripheral wall 150. The first surface section 144 is provided at the distal end of the peripheral wall 150. That is, the first surface section 144 is adjacent to the device body 104. The first surface section 144 is disposed between the second surface section 146 and the device body 104. The elongate core 112 of the article 110 is profiled so that when inserting the locating element 140 into the article 110, the inner surface 114 of the article 110 contacts the first surface section 144 before contacting the second surface section 146. When the locating element 140 is fully inserted in the article 110, the second surface section 146 contacts the inner surface 114 of the article 110.

Also disclosed is a method of using the aerosol provision system 100. The method may be used with any of the aerosol provision devices 101 of Figures 1 to 6.

The method comprises receiving the article 110 on the locating element 140 such that the article 110 is in frictional contact with the external surface 142, and moving the article 110 along the locating element 140. It will be understood that receiving the article 110 on the locating element 140 and inserting the locating element 140 into the article 110 are the same operation.

Initially, the article 110 contacts the first surface section 144. The article 110 may slide along the first surface section 144 due to the lower roughness of the first surface section 144. The article 110 is moved along the locating element 140 until the article 110 contacts the second surface section 146. Due to the greater roughness of the second surface section 146 than the first surface section 144, there is greater frictional resistance to sliding the article 110 along the second surface section 146. The article is moved along the locating element 140 until the locating element 140 is fully received in the article. When the locating element 140 is fully received in the article 110, the second surface section 146 retains the article 110 on the locating element 140. The second surface section 146 forms a friction fit with the article 110.

It will be understood that it is still possible to remove the article 110 from the locating element 140, but the frictional engagement of the article 110 with the second surface section 146 aids retention. The second surface section 146 offers resistance to axial movement of the article 110 along the locating element 140. The article 110 is therefore less likely to be accidentally removed from the locating element 140 during use. For example, the second surface section 146 offers greater resistance to removal of the article 110 than the weight of the article 110. The article 110 therefore cannot fall off the locating element 140 due to gravity.

In some of the above described embodiments, the heating arrangement is an inductive heating arrangement. In other embodiments, other types of heating arrangement are used, such as resistive heating. The configuration of the device is generally as described above and so a detailed description will be omitted. In such arrangements the heater comprises a resistive heating generator including components to heat the heater via a resistive heating process. In this case, an electrical current is directly applied to a resistive heating component, and the resulting flow of current in the heating component causes the heating component to be heated by Joule heating. The resistive heating component comprises resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable electrical current passes through it, and the heater comprises electrical contacts for supplying electrical current to the resistive material.

In embodiments, the heater forms the resistive heating component itself. In embodiments the resistive heating component transfers heat to the heater, for example by conduction.

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. An aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from an article comprising an aerosol-generating material, the device comprising: a device body; a heating system for heating an article; and a locating element, the locating element comprising an external surface, the external surface comprising a first surface section with a first surface roughness, and a second surface section with a second surface roughness greater than the first surface roughness, the locating element configured to be received within the article so that the first surface section and the second surface section contact an inner surface of the article.

2. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1 , wherein the locating element projects from the device body.

3. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second surface section is configured to frictionally retain the article on the locating element.

4. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the locating element comprises a free end and wherein the second surface section is spaced from the free end.

5. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locating element comprises a base end and the second surface section extends from the base end.

6. The aerosol provision device according to claim 5, wherein the second surface section is spaced from the base end.

7. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second surface section extends a minority of the axial length of the locating element.

8. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the first and second surface sections comprises a surface roughness which varies along the length of the locating element.

9. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least a portion of the external surface of the locating element is tapered.

10. The aerosol provision device according to claim 9, wherein the second surface section is provided on the tapered portion.

11. The aerosol provision device according to claim 10, wherein the first surface section is disposed between the second surface section and the body.

12. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 9 to 11 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the tapered portion is at the base end of the locating element.

13. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the locating element is a heater which is heatable by the heating system.

14. The aerosol provision device according to claim 13, wherein the heater comprises a heating section along at least part of the length of the heater.

15. The aerosol provision device according to claim 14, wherein the heating section is one of a plurality of heating sections that are independently heatable.

16. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 14 or 15, wherein the first and second surface sections are discrete from the heating section.

17. The aerosol provision device according to 16, comprising a support member comprising the first and second surface sections, wherein the heating section is on the support member.

18. The aerosol provision device according to any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the locating element comprises a protruding element and a retaining member at least partially surrounding the protruding element, the second surface section being provided on the retaining member.

19. An aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 18; and an article comprising an aerosol-generating material, the article comprising a cavity defined by an inner surface, wherein the locating element is received within the cavity so that the external surface of the locating element contacts the inner surface of the article.

20. A method of using the aerosol provision system of claim 19, the method comprising: receiving the article on the locating element such that the article is in contact with the first surface section, and moving the article along the locating element into subsequent contact with the second surface section.