RU2802335C2 - Aerosol delivery device - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol delivery devices.

SUBSTANCE: various aerosol delivery devices are described which, during use, can suppress or prevent the accumulation of condensate in the channel that connects the heating chamber of the device to the outside of the device. In devices according to one aspect, the interior surface of such a channel is heated during a session of use. In devices according to another aspect, the inner surface of such a channel is heated so that at least a portion of its inner surface reaches a temperature of at least 85°C. In devices according to another aspect, the inner surface portion has a thermal conductivity greater than or equal to 1 W/m/K. In another aspect, the inner surface of such a channel is heated so that at least the middle portion of its inner surface reaches a temperature of at least 70°C. Devices according to another aspect include an air heating module for heating air in such a duct, thereby substantially preventing condensation in the duct. In devices according to yet another aspect, at least a portion of such a channel is defined by a component comprising a first current collector, the first current collector being heated by an inductor which forms part of a heating assembly for heating a heating chamber of the device; wherein the current collector in turn heats the duct, thereby substantially preventing condensation in the duct. In devices according to yet another aspect, at least a portion of such a conduit is defined by a component containing a thermally conductive material, the thermally conductive material of the component abutting against a heating element that forms part of a heating assembly for heating the heating chamber of the device, such that the component is heated by transferring heat from the heating element. element, thereby essentially preventing the accumulation of condensate in the duct. Devices according to yet another aspect, wherein when an article containing an aerosol generating material is fully inserted into the device and engaged with a restraint in the device, there is a first section along the length of the device that does not overlap with any heating element, the first section extends either in the direction of the proximal end from the distal end of the product, or in the distal direction from the proximal end of the product.

EFFECT: in devices according to another aspect, one or more components define such a conduit and a heating chamber to the device, the one or more components providing an airtight seal where the heating chamber meets the conduit.

70 cl, 11 dwg

Description

The technical field to which the invention belongs

The invention relates to an aerosol supply device, an aerosol generation method using an aerosol supply device, and an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol supply device.

State of the art

Products such as cigarettes, cigars, etc. during their use, tobacco is burned to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these types of products that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. A device is known that heats a smoking substance to vaporize at least one component of the smoking substance, typically to form an aerosol that can be inhaled without burning or igniting the smoking substance. Such a device is sometimes described as a "non-burning heating device" or "tobacco heating article" (THP) or "tobacco heating device" or the like. Many different devices are known for volatilizing at least one component of the smokable material.

The substance may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products or combinations, such as mixtures, which may or may not contain nicotine.

Disclosure of invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; an induction heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session; and a channel having an inner surface, the channel connecting the heating chamber to the outer part of the aerosol supply device; wherein the aerosol delivery device is configured such that the inside surface of the channel is heated during a session of use to thereby substantially prevent the accumulation of condensate in the channel.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol supply apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply apparatus comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; an induction heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session when the aerosol generating material is located in the heating chamber; and a channel having an inner surface, the channel connecting the heating chamber to the outer part of the aerosol supply device; moreover, the aerosol supply device is configured so that the inner surface of the channel is heated during a session of use so that at least part of the inner surface reaches a temperature greater than or equal to 85°C.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol supply apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply apparatus comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; a heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session; and a channel having an inner surface, the channel connecting the heating chamber to the outer part of the aerosol supply device; and at least part of the inner surface has a thermal conductivity greater than or equal to 1 W/m/K.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol supply apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply apparatus comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; a heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session; and a channel having an inner surface, the channel connecting the heating chamber to the outer part of the aerosol supply device; moreover, the aerosol supply device is configured so that the inner surface of the channel is heated during the session of use so that at least the middle part of the inner surface, which is located in the middle between the proximal and distal ends of the channel, reaches a temperature greater than or equal to 70°C.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol supply apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply apparatus comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; a heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session; a channel connecting the heating chamber with the outer part of the aerosol supply device; and an air heating unit for heating air in the duct to thereby substantially prevent condensation in the duct.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol supply apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material is provided, the aerosol supply apparatus comprising: a heating assembly comprising an inductor; a heating chamber for inserting the aerosol generating material, in which the aerosol generating material can be heated by the heating unit; and a channel connecting the heating chamber with the opening on the outer part of the aerosol supply device, and at least part of the channel is limited to a component containing the first current collector; wherein the device is configured such that the first pantograph can be heated by the inductor to heat the duct, thereby substantially preventing the accumulation of condensate in the duct.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol supply apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material is provided, the aerosol supply apparatus comprising: a heating unit comprising a heating element that is heated by the heating unit; a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material, in which the aerosol generating material can be heated by a heating element; and a channel connecting the heating chamber with an opening on the outside of the aerosol dispenser, wherein at least a portion of the channel is defined by a component containing a thermally conductive material; wherein the thermally conductive material of the component abuts against the heating element to be heated by heat transfer from the heating element to heat the duct, thereby substantially preventing accumulation of condensate in the duct.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol delivery device is provided for inserting an article containing an aerosol generating material into it and for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol delivery device comprising: a restrictor that prevents the distal end of the article from moving beyond an end position when the article is inserted into the aerosol dispenser; and a heating unit for heating the aerosol generating material during a use session, the heating unit comprising a heating element in which heat is generated during use of the heating unit; moreover, when the product is fully inserted into the device, so that the distal end of the product is located in the extreme position, the first section of the length of the product does not overlap with any heating element heated to heat the product, and the first section extends either a first distance from the distal end of the product along towards the proximal end, or the first distance from the proximal end towards the distal end of the product,

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol supply apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material is provided, the aerosol supply apparatus comprising: a heating assembly; and one or more components that define: a heating chamber for inserting the aerosol generating material, in which the aerosol generating material can be heated by the heating unit; and a channel connecting the heating chamber with the outer part of the aerosol supply device; wherein one or more components provide a hermetic seal where the heating chamber and conduit meet.

Brief description of the drawings

In FIG. 1 is a front view of an example of an aerosol dispenser;

in fig. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a heating assembly in an aerosol dispenser;

in fig. 3a is an enlarged cross-sectional view through a modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2, which includes a layer of thermally conductive material on the inner surface of the intake port;

in fig. 3b is an enlarged cross-sectional view through an alternative modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2;

in fig. 3c is an enlarged cross-sectional view through another modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2;

in fig. 3d is an enlarged cross-sectional view through another modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2;

in fig. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view through a modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2, which includes an air heating module for heating air in an inlet of the device;

in fig. 5a is an enlarged cross-sectional view through a modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2, which includes an inductively heated component defining an inlet;

in fig. 5b is an enlarged view of an alternative modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2 which includes inductively heated components defining inlet and outlet passages;

in fig. 6a is a schematic view of another modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2, in which the components defining the channels and the heating chamber are hermetically connected to each other;

in fig. 6b is a schematic view of a modified version of the device shown in FIG. 6a, in which respective inductors are provided for heating the components defining the inlet, outlet and heating chamber;

in fig. 6c is a schematic view of another alternative modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2, in which one component defines the inlet and outlet channels and the heating chamber;

in fig. 6d is a schematic view of a modified version of the device shown in FIG. 6c, in which respective inductors are provided to heat the components defining the inlet, outlet, and heating chamber;

in fig. 7a is an enlarged cross-sectional view through a modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2, which is configured such that the distal end portion of the aerosol generating material in the inserted article is not heated;

in fig. 7b is a schematic view of an alternative modified version of the device shown in FIG. 1 and 2, which is configured such that the proximal end and distal end portions of the aerosol generating material in the inserted article are not heated;

in fig. 8 is a front view of the aerosol dispenser shown in FIG. 1, with outer cover removed;

in fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol dispenser shown in FIG. 1;

in fig. 10 is a exploded view of the aerosol dispenser shown in FIG. 1;

in fig. 11A is a cross-sectional view of an example of a heating assembly in an aerosol dispenser; And

in fig. 11B is an enlarged view of a portion of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 11A.

Implementation of the invention

To facilitate aerosol generation in use, the aerosol generating material for aerosol delivery devices (eg, tobacco heating articles) typically contains more water and/or aerosol generating agent than smoking material within the burned smoking articles. This increased content of water and/or aerosol generating agent can increase the risk of condensation building up inside the aerosol dispenser during use, especially in locations away from the heating module.

The inventors believe that this problem may be more serious in devices with closed heating chambers. In such devices, the heating chamber may be connected to the outside of the device via a conduit, such as an inlet or outlet. Having studied the test results of devices with such channels, the inventors came to the conclusion that there is a certain risk of condensate accumulation in the channels.

Such collected condensate may, in some cases, leak out of the device, making smoking less enjoyable for the user. In addition, or instead, such condensate may dry out over time, potentially forming tar on the inner surfaces of the channels. This resin can be difficult to remove and therefore can build up over time. In addition, if the aerosol generating material is contained in a consumable, the resin may adhere to the consumable, potentially discoloring it or preventing it from being removed after use.

However, the inventors have determined that if the device is designed in such a way that the inner surface of this channel is heated during a session of use, then the accumulation of condensate in the channel in question can be limited, and in some cases significantly prevented. In particular, it is possible to reduce the deposition of condensate on the inner surfaces of the channel.

Let us turn to Fig. 1, which is a side view of an example of an aerosol delivery device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating medium/material. In general terms, device 100 can be used to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol generating medium to produce an aerosol or other respirable medium that is inhaled by a user of device 100.

The device 100 includes a housing 102 (in the form of an outer cover) that surrounds and houses the various components of the device 100. The device 100 has an opening 104 at one end through which an article 110 can be inserted for heating by a heating assembly. In use, article 110 may be wholly or partially inserted into a heating assembly where it may be heated by one or more components of the heating assembly.

In FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of selected internal components of the device 100 of FIG. 1. As shown, the apparatus 100 includes a heating chamber 101 for receiving an aerosol generating material 110a. The device 100 also includes an inlet 103a that connects the heating chamber 101 to the exterior of the device 100. During use, air may be drawn into the device 100 by passing through the inlet 103a before entering the heating chamber 101.

As can be seen from FIG. 2, the width of the inlet duct 103a may differ from the width of the heating chamber 101, for example, it may be smaller. For example, the average width of the inlet 103a may be less than the average width of the heating chamber 101. This may provide the user with, for example, a desired amount of inflow or flow resistance.

Device 100 also includes an outlet 103b that connects heating chamber 101 to the exterior of device 100 (and which, in the specific example shown, includes expansion chamber 144). During use, the aerosol generated in the heating chamber 101 may pass through the outlet 103b before exiting the device 100.

As can be seen from FIG. 2, the width of the outlet channel 103b may differ from the width of the heating chamber 101, for example, it may be larger. For example, the average width of the outlet channel 103b may be larger than the average width of the heating chamber 101. This may, for example, allow the aerosol to expand and cool before it is inhaled by the user.

As also shown in FIG. 2, the device 100 includes two heating modules 161, 162 for heating the aerosol generating material 110a. Although the example shown includes two heating modules 161, 162, it should be understood that this is by no means essential and device 100 may include only one heating module, or may include three or more heating modules, depending from circumstances.

The inventors studied the test results of devices having a design similar to that of the device 100 shown in FIG. 1 and 2. Based on these test results, the inventors foresee a certain risk that condensate will accumulate inside the channels that connect the heating chamber 101 to the outside of the device, such as inlet 103a and outlet 103b.

A possible contributing factor is that, in some cases, unheated portions of the entire path through the device may experience a pressure drop relative to heated portions, including in particular the heating chamber. Therefore, any condensate that forms in the device, due to the pressure drop in the hot heating chamber, will tend to move to colder areas before and after the heating chamber, ie to the inlet and outlet ports 103a, 103b.

Another possible factor is that in some cases the device 100 may be designed to resist or impede the flow of air into the device in order to control the flow of air through the device 100; such resistance/impedance may prevent the exit of condensate forming substances from the inlet 103a and/or the outlet 103b.

An additional contributing factor in the case of inlet 103a is that in many cases, in order for the condensate forming substances to exit from inlet 103a, they will move in the opposite direction to the air flow passing through inlet 103a during use.

Without wishing to be bound by this understanding of contributing factors, the inventors have determined that if the device 100 is designed to heat the inside surface of the inlet 103a and/or outlet 103b during a session of use, then accumulation of condensate in the channel(s) in question can be limited, and in some cases substantially prevented. Such heating of the inner surface of the inlet 103a and/or the outlet 103b may promote the re-evaporation of the condensate, facilitating the exit of condensate forming substances from the inlet 103a and/or the outlet 103b. In addition or alternatively, such heating of the inner surface of the inlet duct 103a and/or the outlet duct 103b may cause heating of the air within the duct in question, thereby increasing the amount of moisture retained by the air, and thereby reducing the likelihood that condensation will form in the duct in question.

In devices in accordance with one aspect of this invention, heating the inner surface causes at least a portion of the inner surface to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 85°C. The inventors believe that reaching a temperature of 85°C for at least part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 90°C for at least part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 95°C, in others at least 100°C. It is understood that this may stimulate the re-evaporation of the condensate, facilitating the exit of substances forming the condensate from the inlet.

In devices according to another aspect of this invention, heating of the inner surface causes the middle portion of the inner surface, which is midway between the first and second ends of the conduit in question, to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 70°C. The temperature of this middle part is considered to be technically significant since it can generally characterize the degree of heating provided by the inner surface to the condensate, compared, for example, with the temperature of the area at the end closest to the heating chamber, in which the condensate can be additionally heated by residual heat from the heating chamber. . The inventors believe that reaching a temperature of at least 70°C in the middle part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 80°C in the middle part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 95°C, in others at least 100°C.

As mentioned above, such heating of the inner surface of the inlet duct 103a and/or the outlet duct 103b may cause the air within the duct in question to be heated, thereby increasing the amount of moisture held by the air, and thereby reducing the likelihood that condensation will form in the duct in question. Accordingly, the inventors contemplate that in some devices in accordance with the aspects mentioned above, heating the inner surface of the inlet duct 103a and/or the outlet duct 103b may cause the air inside the duct in question to be heated to a temperature greater than or equal to 120°C. The inventors believe that achieving such an air temperature will in many cases be sufficient to significantly reduce the likelihood of condensation in the duct in question. However, the inventors believe that in other cases it may be desirable to design the device in such a way that the air is heated to a temperature greater than or equal to 150°C, or, in other cases, greater than or equal to 170°C, or, in other cases, above or equal to 200°C.

Returning now to FIG. 1 and 2, it should be noted that in the specific example of the apparatus shown, the heating modules 161, 162 are induction heating modules. Induction heating modules can provide rapid heating of the aerosol generating material. However, the inventors believe that such rapid heating may be a risk factor for the accumulation of condensate, for example, because induction heating devices can generate condensate forming substances at a higher rate than they can be carried away.

In the specific example of device 100 shown in FIG. 2, each induction heating module 161, 162 comprises a respective coil 124, 126 and a respective heating element 134, 136. In the specific example shown, the electrically conductive heating elements 134, 136 of the two heating modules 161, 162 correspond to respective sections of a single metal tube 132. However, in others examples, each heating element may be a separate and distinct design. More generally, it should be understood that the device may include any suitable number of heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material; for example, two, three or more heating elements may be provided.

In general, the coil of an induction heating element may, for example, be configured to cause heating of one or more electrically conductive heating elements, for example, so as to transfer thermal energy from such electrically conductive heating elements to the aerosol generating material, to thereby cause heating of the material, generating aerosol. The induction heating module may be configured to cause the coil to generate an alternating magnetic field penetrating the at least one heating element to thereby cause induction heating of the at least one heating element. In the device 100 shown in FIG. 2, the coil 124, 126 of each induction heating module 161, 162 causes the corresponding electrically conductive heating element 134, 136 to be heated. Then, each heating element 134, 136 conducts heat to the aerosol generating material 110a.

It should be understood that other examples may use heating modules other than induction heating modules. For example, the device may include one or more resistive heating elements. For example, each of the induction heating modules 161, 162 can be replaced with a resistive heating element. The resistive heating module may comprise (or essentially consist of) one or more resistive heating elements. By "resistive heating element" is meant that when a voltage is applied to the element, a current flows within the element and the electrical resistance in the element converts electrical energy into thermal energy which heats the aerosol generating substrate. The resistive heating element may, for example, be in the form of a resistive wire, mesh, coil and/or multiple wires. The heat source may be a thin film heater.

Let us now turn to FIG. 3a which is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a modified version 100' of the device 100 shown in FIG. 1 and 2. In the device 100' shown in FIG. 3a, the portion 1035 of the inner surface of the inlet passage 103a is thermally conductive. Based on experimental tests, the inventors believe that the thermal conductive section 1035 may have a thermal conductivity of more than 1 W/m/K. For example, a thermally conductive ceramic such as zirconium dioxide or alumina may be used. Such thermal conduction may facilitate heat transfer from the heating chamber 101 through thermal conduction. Then, the transferred heat can stimulate the re-evaporation of the condensate, facilitating the exit of condensate-forming substances from the inlet 103a.

In some cases, the device 100 may be designed so that the thermal conductivity of the thermally conductive portion is greater than or equal to 5 W/m/K, for example, if ceramic materials with higher thermal conductivity (for example, aluminum oxide or aluminum nitride) are used to form the thermally conductive portion of the inner surface inlet port 103a. In some cases, the device 100 may be designed so that the thermal conductivity of the thermally conductive portion is greater than 10 W/m/K, for example, if metallic materials, such as metals or alloys, are used to form the thermally conductive portion of the inner surface of the inlet 103a. Illustrative examples of suitable metallic materials include brass, copper, aluminum, and steel, such as stainless steel. (It may be noted that most metals and most steels have a thermal conductivity greater than 10 W/m/K). In other cases, the device can be designed so that the thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting part is greater than 20 W/m/K or greater than 50 W/m/K, for example, if metallic materials such as brass, copper, aluminum are used. (It may be noted that, for example, aluminum and aluminum alloys typically have thermal conductivity well above 100 W/m/K).

It should be understood that although FIG. 3a shows an example where the inner surface portion 1035 of the inlet duct 103a is made to be thermally conductive, the inner surface portion of the outlet 103b can be made to be thermally conductive using essentially the same approach, such as using the materials described above. .

Thus, the device 100' shown in FIG. 3a can be seen more generally as an example of an apparatus in which the heating of the inner surface of the channel during a session of use is due at least in part to the transfer of heat generated by the heating module. Even more generally, it can be seen as just one way in which the device can be configured such that the inside surface of the channel is heated during a session of use.

Returning to the specific example shown in FIG. 3a, it can be noted that the heat conductive portion 1035 of the inner surface of the inlet port 103a is usually provided with a heat conductive material coating on the support 131 of the inlet port. As shown in FIG. 3a, this inlet support 131 may, for example, provide the remainder of the inner surface of the inlet 103a. In some examples, inlet support 131 may be molded and therefore (or otherwise) suitably constructed from a moldable polymer material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Therefore, or otherwise, the support 131 of the inlet in some examples can be made as a single unit (for example, from one homogeneous material); however, in other examples, the inlet support 131 may comprise several components and/or may be of a composite structure.

Furthermore, although device 100' includes only one area of thermally conductive material, cover 1035, in other examples, the device may include multiple areas of thermally conductive material, each providing a corresponding portion of the interior surface of channel 103a. Different regions of the thermally conductive material may contain different (thermally conductive) materials.

It may be noted that in the particular device 100' shown in FIG. 3a, the distal end of the cover 1035 is located near the distal end 1031 of the inlet 103a. This may, for example, reduce the risk of the user coming into contact with the hot surface of the device. For the same reasons, in devices having multiple thermally conductive material portions that form an inner surface portion of the inlet 103a, such thermally conductive material portions may have their distal ends located closer to the distal end 1031 of the inlet 103a.

It may also be noted that in the particular device 100' shown in FIG. 3a, the cover 1035 extends to the proximal end 1032 of the inlet 103a. This may assist the thermally conductive coating material to conduct heat away from the heating chamber 101, particularly (but not exclusively) where the proximal end of the inlet port abuts the distal end of the heating chamber 101, as shown in FIG. 3. In general, in devices having one or more areas of thermally conductive material that provide a portion of the interior surface of the inlet 103a, at least some of these areas may extend to the proximal end of the inlet to facilitate heat transfer.

Once again with reference to FIG. 3a, it can be noted that the illustrated specific example of device 100' includes a plurality of holes 141 each extending from one side to the distal end 1031 of inlet 103a, and from the opposite side out of the device. Accordingly, it can be said that such openings 141 can, for example, connect the inlet to the outside of the device. During use of the device, air may enter the inlet 103a through these openings 141. Such openings 141 may provide adequate resistance to airflow into the device to control the flow of air through the device 100. However, such an impedance may equally increase the risk of condensation building up in the inlet. 103a. However, by configuring device 100' in accordance with one aspect of this invention, accumulation of condensate in the inlet can be limited, and in some cases substantially prevented.

Although the coating 1035 is mentioned here, it should of course be understood that this is simply an example of a layer (and in particular a conformal layer) of thermally conductive material providing the thermally conductive portion 1035 of the inner surface of the inlet 103a. Accordingly, the idea is not limited to layers formed using coating methods. As will be appreciated, there are many methods for forming a conformal layer of material, such as physical or chemical deposition methods; as a specific example, coating techniques (eg electroplating) can be used to form a layer of thermally conductive material.

In addition, although in the device 100', only a portion of the inner surface of the inlet 103a is thermally conductive, it should be understood that in other examples, essentially the entire inner surface may be thermally conductive, having a thermal conductivity greater than 1 W/m/K.5 W /m/K (or 20 W/m/K or 50 W/m/K, depending on specific configuration). Such an example is shown in FIG. 3b where the cover 1035' extends to the distal end 1031 of the inlet 103a.

Moreover, of course, it is not necessary for the device to comprise a conformal layer of thermally conductive material, such as a coating 1035. Indeed, there are various design approaches to providing a thermally conductive portion of the inner surface of the inlet 103a. As one example, the device may include a lining in the inlet 103a.

As a further example, the device may include a tubular/cylindrical component 1036 made entirely of a thermally conductive material (e.g., a metallic material such as a metal or an alloy; illustrative examples of suitable metallic materials include brass, copper, aluminum, and steel, e.g. stainless steel; or a thermally conductive ceramic material such as zirconium dioxide or alumina), wherein the thermally conductive portion of the inner surface of the inlet 103a is provided with a tubular component. Such an example is shown in FIG. 3c, where the device includes a tubular component 1036 that defines the entire interior surface of the inlet 103a. In a particular example, tubular component 1036 may suitably be constructed entirely from metallic materials such as brass, aluminium, steel (eg, stainless steel), and/or copper. In the specific example shown, the tubular component 1036 is generally the same shape as the inlet support 131 shown in FIG. 3a and 3b and is therefore connected to and supports other components of the device, including a metal tube 132 which provides two heating elements 134, 136; however, this is of course not essential, and the tubular component 1036 may be of any suitable shape.

Another example of a design that provides a heat conductive portion of the inner surface of the inlet port 103a is shown in FIG. 3d, where the tubular component 1037 is made entirely of a thermally conductive material (e.g., a metallic material such as a metal or an alloy; illustrative examples of suitable metallic materials include brass, copper, aluminum, and steel, such as stainless steel; or a thermally conductive ceramic material, such as such as zirconium dioxide or alumina) is made as an insert in another component, which can be constructed, for example, from heat-insulating materials such as polymeric materials. In the specific example shown in FIG. 3d, tubular component 1037 is provided as an insert in inlet support 131, which, as noted above, may be made of a moldable polymeric material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The tubular component 1037 may suitably be constructed entirely from metallic materials such as brass, aluminium, steel (eg stainless steel) and/or copper.

It should also be understood that any of the above-described approaches for providing a heat-conducting portion 1035 of the inner surface of the inlet duct 103a can equally be used to provide a heat-conducting portion of the inner surface of the outlet 103b. Thus, outlet 103b may, for example, include a cover 1035, a tubular/cylindrical component 1036, and/or a tubular insert 1037 as described above.

In addition, although the cover 1035, tubular/cylindrical component 1036, and tubular insert 1037 have been described as being formed from a thermally conductive material, it should be understood that they may also be formed from an electrically conductive material such as a metallic material, such as a metal or alloy. Illustrative examples of suitable metallic materials include brass, copper, aluminum and steel (eg stainless steel). In a more general sense, they should be understood as examples of devices in which at least part of the inner surface of the inlet channel is formed from an electrically conductive material. Furthermore, it should be understood that if such devices include at least one induction heating module that heats the heating chamber of the device (e.g., induction heating modules 161, 162 of device 100'), then the induction heating module can also cause induction heating. electrically conductive section of the inner surface of the inlet channel. In addition, this electrically conductive portion may, in some examples, be formed from a ferromagnetic and/or ferrimagnetic material so that it is further heated as a result of magnetic hysteresis loss.

Even more generally, such induction heating can be considered as an additional (or alternative) method by which the inner surface of the channel can be heated during a session of use.

In view of the idea of this invention should be obvious additional methods of heating the inner surface of the inlet or outlet channel during a session of use. For example, in other examples, one or more dedicated heating modules may be provided to heat the interior surface of the conduit.

Moreover, in accordance with a further aspect of this invention, it is proposed that a heating module can be provided which heats the air in the inlet or outlet duct. In this regard, refer to FIG. 4, which shows an apparatus 100'' in accordance with this aspect of the invention. In general, device 100'' is a modified version of device 100 shown in FIG. 1 and 2.

Notably, the device 100'' includes a heating module 163 for heating the air in the intake duct 103a. In accordance with the present aspect of the invention, this heating of the air within the duct 103a substantially prevents the accumulation of condensate within the duct 103a. In specific examples, the air is heated to a temperature greater than or equal to 120°C. The inventors believe that achieving such an air temperature will in many cases be sufficient to significantly reduce the likelihood of condensation in the duct in question. However, the inventors believe that in other cases it may be desirable to design the device 100'' in such a way that the air is heated to a temperature greater than or equal to 150°C, or, in other cases, greater than or equal to 170°C or, in in other cases, greater than or equal to 200°C.

Although in the example device 100'' of FIG. 4, the heating module 163 is positioned to heat the air in the inlet duct 103a of the device 100'', it should be understood that in other examples a similar heating module could be provided to heat the air in the outlet 103b. Indeed, in other embodiments, the inlet and outlet passages 103a, 103b may be provided with respective heating modules to heat the air.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 4, the air heating unit 163 includes a resistance heating element 1034. Resistance heating elements may be suitable because they are relatively compact. However, devices in accordance with additional examples may use other types of heating elements.

As shown in FIG. 4, the heating element 1034 may, for example, define a portion of the inner surface of the inlet duct 103a. However, this is not essential and, in other examples, other components may define the inner surface of the channel. In such examples, the heating element, for example, may be positioned to transfer heat to the conduit-limiting components by conduction. Therefore, the components that define the channel can be made from one of the thermally conductive materials discussed above.

As can be seen from FIG. 4, the heating element 1034 extends in a circumferential direction around the inlet 103a. However, in other examples, the heating element(s) of the heating module 163 may instead be provided at the end of the conduit 103a, such as the end farthest from the heating chamber 101. In such examples, the heating element(s) may be positioned so that the air passed through or between the heating element(s) when entering the channel (in the case of the inlet channel 103a) or when leaving the channel (in the case of the outlet channel 103b). In a specific example, the heating element(s) may be provided on a cover 140 or in a door that separates the conduit from the exterior of the device.

As also shown in FIG. 4, the heating element 1034 is located at a distance from the outside of the device, such that it is not accessible to the user during use of the device 100″, for example. Positioning the heating element(s) of the heating module 163 so that it is separated from the outside of the device may, for example, reduce the risk of the user coming into contact with the hot surface of the device 100″.

In some examples, the heating module 163 for heating air is controlled separately from the heating module(s) 161, 162 that heats the aerosol generating material in the heating chamber 101 of the device 100''. As a result, the heating module 163 for heating the air can operate at different times with the heating module(s) 161, 162 of the heating chamber 101. Typically, the heating module(s) 161, 162 for the heating chamber 101 may be activated before the heating module 163 for air heating for duct 103a, for example, because condensation is not expected to form until the aerosol generating material has been heated for a significant period of time.

It is also envisaged that the heating module 163 for heating air can be controlled depending on the output signal of one or more sensors. The output of one or more sensors may in some instances be fed to a controller, such as a microcontroller, which in turn controls the heating module 163 to heat the air based on such output, or in other examples it may be fed directly to the heating module 163 to heating air, which, for example, may include appropriate logic to control the operation of the heating module 163 to heat the air.

In one example, one or more sensors may include one or more sensors that determine whether an aerosol generating material is present in the heating chamber 101 in use. Such sensors may, for example, include pressure sensors positioned such that any aerosol generating material the aerosol present in the chamber exerts pressure on them, or optical sensors positioned such that any aerosol generating material reduces the amount of light reaching the optical sensors. The output of such sensors can be used to control the air heater 163 to heat the air in the duct (e.g., above a threshold temperature) in response to a sensor output indicating that the aerosol generating material has been removed from the heater. cameras. In such an example, the air heating module 163 may assist in removing moisture from the device 100″ that has been generated during a user session.

In another example, one or more sensors may include one or more sensors that determine whether the user is inhaling the aerosol generated by the device. Such sensors may be, for example, sound sensors (eg microphones) or air pressure sensors. The output of such sensors can be used to control the air heating module 163 to heat the air in the duct (eg, above a threshold temperature) in response to the sensor output indicating that the user has inhaled the aerosol. For example, the heating module 163 for heating the air may reach the threshold temperature shortly after the user finishes inhaling. Therefore, or otherwise, the heating module 163 for heating air can be operated between puffs performed by the user.

Let us now turn our attention to Fig. 5a, which shows a device 100''' in accordance with another aspect of this invention, in which the component 1038a defining at least a portion of the inlet 103a includes a current collector 1039a, which is heated by an inductor 126. As shown in FIG. 5a, the current collector 1039a may, for example, surround a portion of the inlet.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 5a, the entire component 1038a is made of the same electrically conductive material. For example, component 1038a may be made of a metallic material such as a metal or a metal alloy. Illustrative examples of suitable metallic materials include brass, copper, aluminum, and steel, such as stainless steel. However, in other examples, the current collector 1039a may be made of other materials compared to other parts of the component 1038a.

As shown in FIG. 5a, in some embodiments, current collector 1039a may simply correspond to the proximal portion of component 1038a that is surrounded by inductor 126. In other examples, current collector 1039a may comprise substantially the entire component 1038a. In one such example, the inductor 126 may extend beyond the distal end of the inlet delimiting component 1038a to surround the entire component 1038a, and not just its proximal portion, as is the case shown in FIG. 5a.

It may be noted that in the specific example shown in FIG. 5a, pantograph 1039a abuts sensing element 136. As a result, pantograph 1039a is further heated by heat transfer from pantograph 136. However, this is not essential, and in other examples of devices in accordance with this aspect, pantograph 1039a and pantograph 136 may be spaced apart. from each other and, indeed, can be thermally insulated from each other.

Furthermore, it may be noted that, as shown in FIG. 5a, the proximal end of component 1038a surrounds the distal end of current collector 136. This may assist in the secure positioning of current collector 136 during assembly of the device and/or may provide efficient thermal conduction from the current collector to component 1038a.

As also shown in FIG. 5a, the device 100''' may also include a support 131 that contains (or is made substantially entirely of) a thermally insulating material. For example, support 131 may comprise (or be substantially entirely made of) a plastic or polymeric material, such as a molded polymeric material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Obviously, support 131 includes a passage that extends between the two ends of support 131, with component 1038a located within this passage.

As also shown in FIG. 5a, the current collector 1039a and the component 1038a as a whole are spaced from the farthest end of the passage in the support 131. This may, for example, reduce the risk of the user coming into contact with the hot surface of the device.

Furthermore, it should be noted that in the specific example shown in FIG. 5a, the inductor 126 operates to generate heat within both the current collector 1039a (thereby causing the inlet 103 to heat) and the current collector 136 (thereby causing the heating chamber 101 to heat). However, it is contemplated that in some embodiments in accordance with this aspect of the invention, the heating chamber 101 may instead be heated by a separate dedicated heating module. Thus, for example, a separate inductor could be provided to generate heat within pantograph 136. In addition or alternatively, pantograph 1039a could be designed to be inherently less susceptible to induction heating than pantograph 136. For example, pantograph 1039a may be made of a material that is inherently less susceptible to induction heating than the material from which pantograph 136 is made. In one example, pantograph 1039a may be made of stainless steel, and pantograph 136 may be made of mild steel or carbon steel. .

Moreover, in some embodiments, the heating module for heating chamber 101 may not be an induction heating module; it can be, for example, a resistive heating element. Therefore, the device may, for example, include a resistive heating element, such as a coil of resistive heating wire, or one or more interconnected conductive tracks on a substrate (eg forming part of a film heater).

More generally, it is contemplated that any of the approaches described above for induction heating of inlet 103a may, in addition or alternatively, be used to heat outlet 103b. In this regard, refer to FIG. 5b, which is a schematic diagram of an apparatus in which both the inlet delimiting component 1038a and the outlet delimiting component 1038b are inductively heated. Although in FIG. 5b shows an apparatus in which both the inlet restricting component 1038a and the outlet restricting component 1038b are inductively heated, it should be understood that the apparatus can equally be configured such that only the exhaust restricting component 1038b is heated inductively. channel.

With reference to FIG. 5b, as can be seen, the outlet defining component 1038b includes a portion (or portion) that acts as a current collector 1039b to be inductively heated by the induction coil 126. In the specific example shown, the inductor 126 causes the current collector 136 to be inductively heated, which heats the heating chamber 101 (and any aerosol generating material disposed therein), induction heating of the current collector 1039b of the exhaust conduit defining component 1038b, and induction heating of the current collector 1039a of the conduit defining component 1038a. However, this is by no means essential, and in other embodiments, appropriate inductors can be provided to inductively heat the inlet delimiter 1038a and the outlet delimiter 1038b. In addition, as noted above, the heating chamber 101 can also be provided with a special heating module, which, as an option, should not be inductive; therefore, in some embodiments, the heating chamber 101 may be heated by one or more resistive heating elements.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or both of the current collectors 1039a, 1039b of the channel-limiting components 1038a, 1038b may be configured to be inherently less susceptible to induction heating than the current collector 136 that heats the heating chamber 101. For example, they may be made of a material that is inherently less susceptible to induction heating than the material from which the current collector 136 is made. In one example, they may be made of stainless steel, while the current collector 136 may be made of soft or carbon steel.

In addition, in devices in accordance with this aspect of the present invention, heating of the current collector may cause the internal surface of the respective inlet or outlet to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 85°C. As noted above, the inventors believe that reaching a temperature of 85°C for at least part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 90°C for at least part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 95°C, in others at least 100°C.

Alternatively or in addition, in devices according to this aspect of this invention, heating of the channel may cause the middle part of the inner surface, which is midway between the first and second ends of the channel in question, to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 70°C. The temperature of this middle part is considered to be technically significant since it can generally characterize the degree of heating provided by the inner surface to the condensate, compared, for example, with the temperature of the area at the end closest to the heating chamber, in which the condensate can be additionally heated by residual heat from the heating chamber. . The inventors believe that reaching a temperature of at least 70°C in the middle part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 80°C in the middle part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 90°C, in others at least 100°C.

Returning to FIG. 5b, it can be noted that the width of the heating chamber 101 is substantially constant over its length. Thus, the width w2 of the heating chamber at the distal end is substantially the same as its width w3 at the proximal end and its width w1 in the middle. However, this is not significant. In other examples, the width of the chamber may increase from its middle towards its proximal and/or distal end (eg, so that the chamber is hourglass shaped). In particular (but not exclusively), if the heating elements for the chamber surround or define the chamber, the greater width of the proximal and distal end portions of the chamber may result in the proximal and/or distal end of the smoking article receiving less heat. Reducing the heating of the end portions of the article, and in particular the end portions of the aerosol generating material within the article, may cause these end portions to collect and/or absorb condensate. In addition, reduced heating of the proximal end of the article may be particularly suitable if the article includes a filter at its proximal end, as this may reduce the risk of damage to the filter.

It should be noted that the inventors consider the device 100''' in FIG. 5a and device 100''' in FIG. 5b as an implementation of a further aspect of this invention which will now be described.

As can be seen in FIG. 5a, a component 1038a that defines at least a portion of the inlet 103a of the device 100''' abuts against the current collector 136. Therefore, it is understood that if this component 1038a contains thermally conductive material, then it can be heated by heat transfer from the current collector. 136. This, in turn, can cause the inlet 103a to heat up, thereby helping to prevent condensation from accumulating inside the inlet 103a.

In the device shown in Fig. 5b, both the inlet defining component 1038a and the exhaust confining component 1038b abut against the current collector 136. Thus, if the components 1038a and 1038b contain thermally conductive material, then each of them can be heated by heat transfer from the current collector 136. , which in turn causes the inlet port 103a and the outlet port 103b to heat up.

In accordance with the present aspect, it is contemplated that such conducted heat can be used to heat the inlet 103a and/or the outlet 103b and thus prevent the accumulation of condensate in the respective duct(s) 103a, 103b, without the need for the respective component to (s) 1038a, 1038b, the confining channel included any part that is inductively heated, such as a current collector 1039a. Further, given that such induction heating is optional in this aspect of the invention, the inventors contemplate that the respective channel defining components 1038a, 1038b may abut against the non-inductive heating element. Thus, in devices according to the present aspect, the channel delimiting component 1038a, 1038b may, for example, abut against a resistive heating element rather than current collector 136 as shown in FIG. 5.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5a, component 1038a and current collector 136 are not only adjacent, but also "fixed", being rotationally locked or interconnected. However, in other embodiments, they may be attached to each other to prevent relative movement as a whole, such as by soldering, welding, brazing, gluing, mechanical bonding, or otherwise.

In some embodiments, the thermally conductive material of the channel-limiting component may have a thermal conductivity greater than or equal to 1 W/m/K, for example, if a thermally conductive ceramic such as zirconia or alumina is used. In other embodiments, the implementation of the thermally conductive material may have a thermal conductivity greater than or equal to 5 W/m/K, for example, if using ceramic materials with higher thermal conductivity (eg, aluminum oxide or aluminum nitride). In other embodiments, the implementation of the thermally conductive material may have a thermal conductivity greater than 10 W/m/K, for example, if using metallic materials, such as metals or alloys. Illustrative examples of suitable metallic materials include brass, copper, aluminum, and steel, such as stainless steel. (It may be noted that most metals and most steels have a thermal conductivity greater than 10 W/m/K). In other embodiments, the thermally conductive material may have a thermal conductivity greater than 20 W/m/K or greater than 50 W/m/K, for example if metallic materials such as brass, copper, aluminum are used. (It may be noted that, for example, aluminum and aluminum alloys typically have thermal conductivity well above 100 W/m/K).

In some embodiments, essentially the entire component 1038a, 1038b, limiting the channel, can be made of thermally conductive material, as described above.

In devices in accordance with this aspect of the present invention, the heating of the inlet and/or outlet channel may cause the inner surface of the respective channel to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 85°C. As noted above, the inventors believe that reaching a temperature of 85°C for at least part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 90°C for at least part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 95°C, in others at least 100°C.

Alternatively or in addition, in devices in accordance with this aspect of the present invention, heating of the inlet and/or outlet duct may cause the average portion of the inner surface of the duct(s) in question to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 70°C ( the middle part of the channel is defined as the area located in the middle between the first and second ends of the channel). The temperature of this middle part is considered to be technically significant since it can generally characterize the degree of heating provided by the inner surface for any condensate, compared, for example, with the temperature of the area at the end closest to the heating chamber, in which the condensate can be additionally heated by residual heat from the heating chamber. cameras. The inventors believe that reaching a temperature of at least 70°C in the middle part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 80°C in the middle part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 90°C, in others at least 100°C.

Although in FIG. 5a shows the inlet delimiting component 1038a and the current collector 136 which are rotationally locked or interconnected, instead, as mentioned above, they can be attached to each other to prevent relative movement as a whole. For example, they can be attached to each other by soldering, welding, soldering, gluing, mechanical attachment (eg, crimping or insertion), or mechanical connection. In accordance with yet another aspect of this invention, it is envisaged that the inlet delimiting component 1038a and the current collector 136 can be hermetically connected to each other (for example, by welding, soldering, soldering, gluing or mechanical connection), so that a hermetic seal is made where the heating chamber 101 and the inlet 103a meet. Some embodiments can be described as providing a tight seal near the confluence or junction of the heating chamber 101 with the inlet 103a.

Indeed, the same approach can be used in relation to the component 1038b, restricting the exhaust channel. For example, the outlet restricting component 1038b in FIG. 5b may be hermetically connected to the current collector 136 so as to provide a hermetic seal where the heating chamber 101 and the outlet 103b meet. Some embodiments can be described as providing a tight seal near the confluence or junction of the heating chamber 101 with the outlet 103b.

It is believed that there is a certain risk of leakage of condensate forming substances where the heating chamber meets the inlet or outlet. Such substances can contaminate the space between the heating chamber 101 and the insulating element 128 (described below), which, for example, is located radially outside the heating chamber 101. Such a hermetic seal greatly reduces this risk.

Let us now turn to FIG. 6a, which shows an apparatus 100 in accordance with an embodiment of this aspect of the invention. As can be seen, the device 100 includes a current collector 136 that is welded or soldered to the inlet delimiter 1038a at one end (as shown in heavy lines 1033a) and welded or soldered to the outlet delimiter 1038b at the other end. (indicated by bold lines 1033b). As can be seen, welding/soldering 1033a, 1033b has been performed around the current collector 136 and the conduit-limiting components 1038a, 1038b. This avoids the impact of welding or soldering on the shape of the internal passage, which contains the heating chamber 101 and the inlet and outlet channels 103a, 103b. However, in other embodiments, in addition to or instead of the outside, welding or soldering may be performed on the inside.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inlet delimiting component 1038a and/or the outlet delimiting component 1038b comprises (or is formed from) a thermally conductive material.

In some embodiments, the thermally conductive material of the channel-limiting component may have a thermal conductivity greater than or equal to 1 W/m/K, for example, if a thermally conductive ceramic such as zirconia or alumina is used. In other embodiments, the implementation of the thermally conductive material may have a thermal conductivity greater than or equal to 5 W/m/K, for example, if using ceramic materials with higher thermal conductivity (eg, aluminum oxide or aluminum nitride). In other embodiments, the implementation of the thermally conductive material may have a thermal conductivity greater than 10 W/m/K, for example, if using metallic materials, such as metals or alloys. Illustrative examples of suitable metallic materials include brass, copper, aluminum, and steel, such as stainless steel. (It may be noted that most metals and most steels have thermal conductivity greater than 10 W/m/K). In other embodiments, the thermally conductive material may have a thermal conductivity greater than 20 W/m/K or greater than 50 W/m/K, for example if metallic materials such as brass, copper, aluminum are used. (It may be noted that, for example, aluminum and aluminum alloys typically have thermal conductivity well above 100 W/m/K).

In some embodiments, essentially the entire component 1038a, 1038b, limiting the channel, can be made of thermally conductive material, as described above. In other embodiments, only a portion of the inner surface of the components 1038a, 1038b that defines the inlet and/or outlet may be made of a thermally conductive material.

Although the heating chamber 101 is limited by the current collector 136 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6a, this is by no means essential, and in other embodiments, the heating chamber 101 may be limited to one or more components, none of which act as a current collector. For example, the components defining the heating chamber 101 may include a thermally conductive component (eg, a tube formed from a thermally conductive material) on which one or more resistance heating elements are mounted.

In the specific embodiment shown in FIG. 6a, the inlet restricting component 1038a and the outlet restricting component 1038b act as a current collector and are heated by the same inductor 126 which causes the current collector 136 to heat up. However, in other embodiments, such as the one shown in FIG. . 6b, both the inlet restricting component 1038a and the exhaust passage restricting component 1038b can be heated with the respective dedicated inductor 127a, 127b. In such a case, the device may be configured to individually control the heating of the inlet delimiter 1038a and the outlet delimiter 1038b.

In other embodiments, multiple inductors may be provided to heat respective portions of current collector 136. For example, multiple inductors may cause heating of respective longitudinal portions of current collector 136, as in the case of the apparatus shown in FIG. 2 which includes inductors 124 and 126. In some embodiments in which multiple inductors are provided, the first inductor (or the first group of inductors) may be positioned to cause heating of the area of the current collector that defines the heating chamber, as well as the area of the current collector that defines the inlet or outlet. Alternatively, the second inductor (or second group of inductors) may be positioned to cause heating of another area of the current collector that defines the heating chamber, as well as the area of the current collector that defines another inlet or outlet.

Further approaches to configuring the aerosol delivery device so as to heat the inside surface of the channel during a session of use will be apparent from the further discussion above. For example, heat may be transferred by conduction from a heating element (e.g., pantograph 136) of heating chamber 101. Accordingly, it should be understood that it is by no means necessary for an inlet delimiting component 1038a and an outlet delimiting component 1038b to protrude. as current collectors.

It should be understood that sealing the components that define the heating chamber with the components that define the inlet or outlet is only one approach to provide an airtight seal when the heater chamber meets the inlet or outlet. An alternative approach is illustrated in FIG. 6c, which shows an apparatus that includes a single or integral component 1011 that defines a heating chamber 101, an inlet 103a, and an outlet 103b. As shown, a continuous passage or lumen may pass through the single component 1011. In the embodiment shown, this passage includes a heating chamber 101, an inlet 103a, and an outlet 103b. In some embodiments, this entire passage may be hermetically sealed to substantially prevent leakage of condensate-forming materials, except for, for example, the longitudinal ends of the passage.

While such a passage that is sealed substantially along its entire length has been described with reference to an embodiment including a single component, it should be understood that such a substantially sealed passage may equally be present in embodiments such as those shown in FIG. .6a and 6b, where several components define the heating chamber and the inlet and/or outlet channels.

Returning to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6c, it should be understood that a single component 1011 may be formed using several suitable processes. For example, the single component 1011—particularly if the single component 1011 is formed from a metal or alloy—may be formed in a spin-forming or extrusion-molding process. In other examples, a single component 1011 may be formed using an additive manufacturing/3D printing process, extrusion, or casting.

In the specific embodiment shown in FIG. 6c, the first section 1361 of the integral component 1011 defines the heating chamber 101 and acts as the first current collector that heats the aerosol generating material inside the heating chamber 101. The second and third sections 1362, 1363 of the integral component 1011 are delimited, respectively. , inlet 103a and outlet 103b, and are inductively heated using the same inductor 126, which induces inductive heating of the first section 1361.

However, in other embodiments, such as the one shown in FIG. 6d, the second and third portions 1362, 1363 of integral component 1011 can be heated by means of an appropriate inductor 127a, 127b. In such a case, the device may be configured to individually control the heating of the inlet delimiter 1038a and the outlet delimiter 1038b.

Although in the embodiments shown in FIG. 6c and 6d, the same integral component 1011 defines the heating chamber 101, the inlet 103a and the outlet 103b, in other embodiments the integral component may instead only define the heating chamber 101 and the inlet 103a, or only the heating chamber 101 and the outlet 103b. In such a case, one or more separate components may define the outlet passage 103b or the inlet passage 103a, respectively, and these components, for example, are hermetically connected to the integral component, for example, by welding (for example, as described above) soldering, hard soldering or glue.

In devices in accordance with this aspect of the present invention, the heating of the inlet and/or outlet channel may cause the inner surface of the respective channel to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 85°C. As noted above, the inventors believe that reaching a temperature of 85°C for at least part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 90°C for at least part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 95°C, in others at least 100°C.

Alternatively or in addition, in devices in accordance with this aspect of the present invention, heating of the inlet and/or outlet duct may cause the average portion of the inner surface of the duct(s) in question to reach a temperature greater than or equal to 70°C ( the middle part of the channel is defined as the area located in the middle between the first and second ends of the channel). The temperature of this middle part is considered to be technically significant since it can generally characterize the degree of heating provided by the inner surface for any condensate, compared, for example, with the temperature of the area at the end closest to the heating chamber, in which the condensate can be additionally heated by residual heat from the heating chamber. cameras. The inventors believe that reaching a temperature of at least 70°C in the middle part of the inner surface will in many cases be sufficient to cause significant re-evaporation of the condensate. However, in some cases, the device may be configured to achieve a temperature of at least 80°C in the middle part of the inner surface, in other cases at least 90°C, in others at least 100°C.

Let us now turn to FIG. 7a, which shows a device 100'''' in accordance with yet another aspect of this invention. Like the devices shown in FIG. 1-5d, device 100'''' in FIG. 7a is configured to receive an article 110 containing an aerosol generating material, and the device 100'''' is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material 1105 when the article 110 is inserted into the device 100''''. Accordingly, the device 100'''' includes a heating assembly for heating the aerosol generating material 1105 during a session of use. The heating assembly includes at least one heating element, such as a current collector 136, as shown in FIG. 7a.

The device shown in Fig. 7a further includes a stopper 105. A stopper 105 that prevents the distal end of article 110 from moving beyond the end position when article 110 is inserted into the aerosol dispenser. As can be seen, in the specific example shown in FIG. 7, the limiter 105 defines an end position that is located away from the distal end of the current collector 136. In contrast, in the devices shown in FIG. 1-5b, the limiter 105 defines an extreme position at the distal end of the current collector 136.

As can be understood, as a result of the end position being away from the distal end of the current collector 136, there is a length of aerosol generating material 1105 within the smoking article that, when the article 110 is fully inserted into the device, does not overlap with any heating element. This section extends toward the proximal end a first distance 151 from the distal end 1101 of the aerosol generating material 1105. The inventors believe that this area, which heats up to a much lesser extent than other areas of the aerosol generating material 1105, can collect and/or absorb condensate that might otherwise accumulate inside the device, for example, in an inlet or outlet.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 7a, the restrictor 105 has an annular surface. However, it could instead comprise an array of circumferentially spaced protrusions, or any suitable design.

In many cases, the stopper 105 will be aligned with the opening 104 in the device 100 through which the product 110 is inserted (as well as the product insertion chamber 101). In addition, the stopper 105 may have a minimum inside diameter that is smaller (e.g., 2 mm or more) than the minimum inside diameter of the hole 104, so that although the article can move freely through the hole 104, the stopper 105 blocks its movement.

It may also be noted that in the specific embodiment shown in FIG. 7a, the distal end of the current collector 136 is extended outward. In some embodiments, this expanded distal end may extend 2 mm or less in the direction of the length of the current collector. The extended distal end may assist in secure positioning of the current collector 136 during assembly of the device. For example, as shown in FIG. 7a, the flared distal end may contact (or abut) anvil 1315. In the specific example shown in FIG. 7a, stop 1315 has an annular surface. However, it could instead comprise an array of circumferentially spaced protrusions, or any suitable design.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 7a, stop 1315 is provided by a component 1038 that delimits inlet 103a (at least in part). Thus, in the example shown in FIG. 7a, both stop 105 and stop 1315 are made by component 1038. However, this is merely an illustrative arrangement and stop 1315 may be made by any suitable component of device 1.

As can be seen in FIG. 7a, the apparatus 100'''' includes an article insertion chamber 1010 or heating chamber 1010 and an inlet 103a. Obviously, the width of the inlet 103a is less than the width of the product insertion chamber 1010; this can provide the user with, for example, the required amount of inflow or flow resistance.

As can also be seen in FIG. 7a, the distal portion 1015 of the product insertion chamber 1010 that extends from the distal end of the current collector 136 (or, more generally, from the distal end of the farthest heating element if the device 100'''' has multiple heating elements) has a width that greater than or equal to the portion of the product insertion chamber 1010 that is located closer to the proximal end. Such an arrangement may facilitate insertion of the article into the distal portion 1015 of the article insertion chamber.

As shown in FIG. 7a, the distal portion 1015 of the article insertion chamber 1010 may be separated from the inlet 103a by a restrictor 105. In the specific example shown, the restrictor 105 is provided at the junction of the distal portion 1015 of the article insertion chamber 1010 and the inlet 103a.

In some embodiments, the distal portion 1015 of the product insertion chamber 1010 may be defined by a thermally insulating material. This may further help reduce the amount of heat applied to the distal portion of the smoking article. A suitable heat insulating material may be plastic, such as polyetheretherketone.

It should be understood that although the current collector 136 is used as a heating element in the device 100'''' shown in FIG. 7a, the present aspect is not limited to this. Indeed, it is believed that different types of heating elements may be used depending on the particular application. For example, current collector 136 may be replaced by a resistive heating element, such as a coil of resistive heating wire, or one or more interconnected conductive tracks on a substrate (eg, forming part of a film heater).

In addition, the inventors contemplate that it may be desirable to additionally (or alternatively) provide a non-heating portion at the proximal end 1102 of the aerosol generating material 1105 within the smoking article 110.

To illustrate the broad scope of this aspect of the invention, refer to FIG. 7b which is a schematic diagram showing a smoking article 110 fully inserted into a device in accordance with a further embodiment of this aspect of the invention. For ease of explanation, the device shown in FIG. 7b includes only one heating element 1200, which is shown schematically; however, it should be understood that the device may include two, three or more heating elements, depending on the particular application.

As is obvious, in FIG. 7b shows the product 110 fully inserted into the device, with the distal end 111 of the product 110 in the end position defined by the stop 105.

In FIG. 7b also shows the aerosol generating material 1105 in the article 110. The length of the aerosol generating material 1105 is indicated in FIG. 8 double-sided arrow 1005.

As shown in FIG. 7b, in some embodiments, the distal end 111 of the article 110 may be defined by the distal end 1101 of the aerosol generating material 1105. As also shown in FIG. 7b, aerosol generating material 1105 may be in the form of an elongated body, such as a cylindrical body. Furthermore, it may be noted that in the specific example shown in FIG. 7b, article 110 includes a filter 1106 that extends from the proximal end 1102 of aerosol generating material 1105.

As shown in FIG. 7b, when article 110 is in the fully inserted position, there is a first length of aerosol generating material 1105 that extends a first distance 1001 toward the proximal end from the distal end 1101 of aerosol generating material 1105 that does not overlap with any heating element.

As also shown in FIG. 7b, in addition, there is a second length of aerosol generating material 1105 that extends a second distal end distance 1002 from the proximal end 1102 of aerosol generating material 1105 that also does not overlap with any heating element.

Both the first and second portions of the article may collect and/or absorb condensate that might otherwise accumulate within the device, such as in an inlet or outlet.

The first distance 1001 may be, for example, not less than 2 mm and not more than 10 mm. In some cases, it can be at least 3 mm and not more than 7 mm. In other cases, it may be about 5 mm. Similarly, the second distance 1002 may be no less than 2 mm and no more than 10 mm, for example. In some cases, it can be at least 3 mm and not more than 7 mm. In other cases, it may be about 5 mm. In some cases, the first and second distances 1001, 1002 may be substantially equal.

Although in FIG. 7b shows an apparatus in which neither the first portion 1001 nor the second portion 1002 of the aerosol generating material 1105 overlaps with any heating element, it should be understood that in other embodiments the apparatus may be configured such that only the second length portion of the material 1105 generating aerosol does not overlap with any heating element. (Hence, such embodiments will have at least one heating element that overlaps with the proximal end of the aerosol generating material 1105.)

Referring next to FIG. 8-11B, which show various features of the construction and operation of the devices shown in FIG. 1-3. Similar features can also be used in the devices shown in FIG. 5a-7b.

Referring first to FIG. 8, as shown, device 100 may include a first end member 106 that includes a cover 108 that is movable relative to first end member 106 to cover opening 104 when article 110 is not in place. In FIG. 1, lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, however, lid 108 may change to a closed configuration. For example, the user may slide cover 108 in the direction of arrow "A".

Device 100 may also include a user-operable control 112, such as a button or switch, that, when pressed, activates device 100. For example, a user may turn on device 100 using switch 112.

The device 100 may also include an electrical component, such as a socket/port 114, that can accept a cable to charge the battery of the device 100. For example, socket 114 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port.

In FIG. 8 shows the device 100 shown in FIG. 1 with outer cover 102 removed and product 110 removed. Device 100 defines longitudinal axis 180.

As shown in FIG. 8, the first end 106 is located at one end of the device 100 and the second end 116 is located at the opposite end of the device 100. The first and second end elements 106, 116 together at least partially define the end surfaces of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end element 116 at least partially defines the bottom surface of the device 100. The edges of the outer cover 102 may also define part of the end surfaces. In this example, cover 108 also defines a portion of the top surface of device 100.

The end of the device closest to opening 104 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of device 100 because it is closest to the user's mouth in use. In use, the user inserts article 110 into opening 104, operates user control 112 to begin heating the aerosol generating material, and draws in the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to pass through the device 100 along a flow path to the proximal end of the device 100.

The other end of the device furthest from opening 104 may be known as the distal end of device 100 because it is furthest away from the user's mouth in use. When the user draws in the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol passes from the distal end of the device 100.

The device 100 may also include a power source 118. The power source 118 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 battery is electrically connected to the heating unit to supply electricity when needed and controlled by a controller (not shown) to heat the aerosol generating material. In this example, the battery is connected to a central support 120 that holds the battery 118 in place.

The device may also include at least one electronic module 122. The electronic module 122 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). Circuit board 122 may support at least one controller such as a processor and memory. Circuit board 122 may also include one or more electrical tracks for electrically interconnecting various electronic components of device 100. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to circuit board 122 so that power can be distributed throughout device 100. Socket 114 may also be electrically connected to the battery via electrical tracks.

As noted above, in the exemplary apparatus 100, the heating unit is an induction heating unit and includes various components for heating the aerosol generating material 110a through an induction heating process. Induction heating is the process of heating an electrically conductive object (such as a current collector) using electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may include an inductive element, such as one or more induction coils, and a device for passing a varying electrical current, such as an alternating electrical current, through the inductive element. The changing electric current in an inductive element creates a changing magnetic field. The alternating magnetic field penetrates through the pantograph, appropriately positioned relative to the inductive element, and creates eddy currents inside the pantograph. The current collector has an electrical resistance to eddy currents, and therefore the flow of eddy currents against this resistance causes heating of the current collector due to Joule heating. In cases where the current collector contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat can also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the current collector, i.e. the changing orientation of the magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the changing magnetic field. With induction heating, compared to, for example, heating by heat transfer, heat is generated inside the current collector, which ensures rapid heating. In addition, there is no need for any physical contact between the induction heater and the current collector, allowing greater freedom in design and application.

The induction heating assembly of an exemplary device 100 includes a current collector structure 132 (referred to herein as a "susceptor"), a first inductor 124, and a second inductor 126. The first and second inductors 204, 206 are made of an electrically conductive material. In this example, the first and second inductors 124, 126 are made of winding wire/cable wound in a helix to form helical inductors 124, 126. The winding wire is made up of many individual wires that are individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Winding wires are designed to reduce skin effect losses in the conductor. In the exemplary device 100, the first and second inductors 124, 126 are made of copper winding wire having a rectangular cross section. In other examples, the winding wire may have a cross section of a different shape, such as round.

The first inductor 124 is configured to generate a first alternating magnetic field to heat the first section 134 of the current collector 132, and the second inductor 126 is configured to generate a second alternating magnetic field to heat the second section 136 of the current collector 132. Thus, as discussed above with reference in fig. 2, the first inductor 124 and the first section 134 of the current collector 132 can be considered part of the first heating module 161, in which the first section 134 of the current collector 132 acts as a heating element, generating heat that is transferred to the aerosol generating material. In contrast, the second inductor 126 and the second section 136 of the current collector 132 can be considered part of the second heating module 162, in which the second section 136 of the current collector 132 acts as a heating element, generating heat that is transferred to the aerosol generating material.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the first inductor 124 is adjacent to the second inductor 126 in the direction along the longitudinal axis 180 of the apparatus 100 (ie, the first and second inductors 124, 126 do not overlap). The current collector structure 132 may include one or two or more separate current collectors. The ends 130 of the first and second inductors 124, 126 may be connected to the circuit board 122.

It is clear that the first and second coils 124, 126 in some examples may have at least one characteristic that is different from each other. For example, first inductor 124 may have at least one different characteristic than second inductor 126. More specifically, in one example, first inductor 124 may have a different inductance than second inductor 126. FIG. . 10, the first and second inductors 124, 126 have different lengths such that the first inductor 124 is wound on a smaller section of the current collector 132 than the second inductor 126. Thus, the first coil 124 may contain a different number of turns than the second coil 126 (provided that the distance between the individual turns is essentially the same). In another example, the first inductor 124 may be made from a different material than the second inductor 126. In some examples, the first and second inductors 124, 126 may be substantially identical.

In this example, the first inductor 124 and the second inductor 126 are wound in opposite directions. This can be useful when the inductors are turned on at different times. For example, the first inductor 124 may be operated first to heat the first section/part of article 110, and later the second inductor 126 may be operated to heat the second section/part of article 110. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps to reduce the current induced in the inactive coil when used in conjunction with a certain type of control circuit. In FIG. 8, the first inductor 124 is a right helix, and the second inductor 126 is a left helix. However, in another embodiment, the inductors 124, 126 may be wound in the same direction, or the first inductor 124 may be left-handed and the second inductor 126 may be right-handed.

The current collector 132 in this example is hollow and therefore defines a heating chamber 101 into which the aerosol generating material is placed. For example, article 110 may be inserted into current collector 132. In this example, current collector 120 is tubular with a circular cross section.

Current collector 132 may be made from one or more materials. In one example, the current collector 132 is composed of nickel or cobalt plated carbon steel.

In some examples, current collector 132 may include at least two materials that can be heated at two different frequencies to selectively aerosolize at least two materials. For example, the first section of current collector 132 (which is heated by the first inductor 124) may contain a first material, and the second section of current collector 132, which is heated by the second inductor 126, may contain a second, different material. In another example, the first section may comprise first and second materials, where the first and second materials may be heated differently depending on the operation of the first inductor 124. The first and second materials may be adjacent along an axis defined by the current collector 132, or may form different layers within the current collector 132. Similarly, the second section may comprise third and fourth materials, where the third and fourth materials may be heated differently depending on the operation of the second. coils 126 inductors. The third and fourth materials may be adjacent along an axis defined by the current collector 132, or may form different layers within the current collector 132. The third material may be the same as the first material, and the fourth material may be the same as the second material, for example. Alternatively, all materials may be different. The current collector may comprise, for example, carbon steel or aluminum.

Device 100 in FIG. 8 also includes an insulating element 128, which may be generally tubular and at least partially surround the current collector 132. The insulating element 128 may be made of any insulating material, such as plastic. In this particular example, the insulating element is made of polyether ether ketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 can help insulate the various components of the device 100 from the heat generated in the current collector 132.

The insulating member 128 may also fully or partially support the first and second inductors 124, 126. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, first and second inductors 124, 126 are located around insulating element 128 and are in contact with the radially outer surface of insulating element 128. In some examples, insulating element 128 does not abut against first and second inductors 124, 126. For example, there may be a small gap between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surface of the first and second inductors 124, 126.

In a specific example, current collector 132, insulating element 128, and first and second inductors 124, 126 lie on the same central longitudinal axis of current collector 132.

In FIG. 9 shows a side view of the device 100 in partial section. In this example, an outer cover 102 is present. The rectangular cross-sectional shape of the first and second inductors 124, 126 is more clearly visible.

The device 100 also includes an inlet support 131 which, in the particular example shown, engages one end of the current collector tube 132 to hold the current collector tube 132 in place. The inlet support 131 is connected to the second end member 116.

The device may also include a second circuit board 138 associated with the control element 112.

The device 100 also includes a second cover/cap 140 and a spring 142 located toward the distal end of the device 100. The spring 142 allows the second cover 140 to be opened to provide access to the current collector tube 132. The user may open the second cover 140 to clean the current collector tube 132 and/or the inside surface of the inlet 103a.

The device 100 also includes an expansion chamber 144 that extends from the proximal end of the current collector 132 to the opening 104 of the device. As noted above, the expansion chamber 144 forms part of the outlet channel 103b in the device example 1 shown in FIG. 1 and 2. At least partially within the expansion chamber 144 is a retaining clip 146 that abuts against the product 110 and holds it in the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 is connected to the end member 106.

In FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the device 100 shown in FIG. 1, without outer cover 102.

In FIG. 11A shows a cross section of a portion of the device 100 shown in FIG. 8. In FIG. 11B is a close-up view of the area of FIG. 11A. In FIG. 11A and 11B show article 110 placed in pantograph 132, with article 110 sized such that the outer surface of article 110 abuts the inner surface of pantograph 132. This provides the most efficient heating. The article 110 of this example contains an aerosol generating material 110a. Aerosol generating material 110a is disposed within current collector 132. Article 110 may also include other components such as a filter, wrapping materials, and/or a cooling structure.

In FIG. 11B shows that the outer surface of the current collector 132 is separated from the inner surface of the inductors 124, 126 by a distance 150, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the current collector 132. In one particular example, the distance 150 is from about 3 mm to 4 mm, from about 3 mm to 3.5 mm or approximately 3.25 mm.

In FIG. 11B also shows that the outer surface of the insulating member 128 is separated from the inner surface of the inductors 124, 126 by a distance 152, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the current collector 132. In one particular example, the distance 152 is approximately 0.05 mm. In another example, distance 152 is substantially 0 mm so that inductors 124, 126 abut against and touch insulating member 128.

In one example, current collector 132 has a wall thickness 154 of about 0.025 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.05 mm.

In one example, current collector 132 has a length of about 40 mm to 60 mm, about 40 to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.

In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of about 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.

Although the devices shown in FIG. 1-11B have heating elements for aerosol generating material that surround a heating chamber, it should be understood that other devices implementing the various aspects disclosed herein may have at least one heating element (e.g., shaped like a pin , rod or blade) that protrudes into the heating chamber and heats the aerosol generating material from the inside out. At least one heating element can be aligned, for example, with the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber.

As used herein, the term "use session" refers to a single period of use by a user of an aerosol dispenser. A usage session begins when at least one heating element present in the heating assembly is first energized. The device will be ready for use after a certain period of time has elapsed from the start of the session. The usage session ends at the moment when none of the heating elements in the aerosol dispenser is energized. The end of a session of use may coincide with the point at which the smoking article ends (the point at which the total particle yield (mg) per puff would be considered unacceptably low by the user). The session will last for several puffs. Said session may be less than 7 minutes, or 6 minutes, or 5 minutes, or 4 minutes and 30 seconds, or 4 minutes, or 3 minutes and 30 seconds. In some embodiments, a usage session may have a duration of 2 to 5 minutes, or 3 to 4.5 minutes, or 3.5 to 4.5 minutes, or 4 minutes, respectively. The session can be initiated by the user by pressing a button or turning on the device, which causes at least one heating element to begin to heat up.

As used herein, the term "heating chamber" may, for example, refer to a space that is heated by at least one heating element of at least one heating module. In some examples, the heating chamber may have two open ends (eg, an open proximal and distal end) and there may, for example, be an abrupt change in cross-sectional area at one or both of these open ends. In some examples, the proximal end of the inlet can exit or be directly connected to the distal end of the heating chamber. Thus, there may be a sharp change in the cross-sectional area between the proximal end of the inlet port and the distal end of the heating chamber. Therefore, (or otherwise) the cross-sectional area of the proximal end of the inlet port may be less than the cross-sectional area of the distal end of the heating chamber.

The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention are contemplated. It should 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 embodiment, or any combination of any other embodiments. . In addition, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be used without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (116)

1. An aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; an induction heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session; And a channel having an inner surface, the channel connecting the heating chamber to the exterior of the aerosol dispenser; wherein the aerosol delivery device is configured such that at least a portion of the inner surface of the channel is heated during a session of use to thereby substantially prevent accumulation of condensate in the channel. 2. An aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; an induction heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session when the aerosol generating material is located in the heating chamber; And a channel having an inner surface, the channel connecting the heating chamber to the exterior of the aerosol dispenser; moreover, the aerosol supply device is configured such that the inner surface of the channel is heated during a session of use so that at least a portion of the inner surface reaches a temperature greater than or equal to 85°C. 3. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the inner surface is made of a thermally conductive material having a thermal conductivity greater than 1 W/m/K. 4. An aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; a heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a session of use, and a channel having an inner surface, the channel connecting the heating chamber to the exterior of the aerosol dispenser; moreover, at least a portion of the inner surface is made of a heat-conducting material having a thermal conductivity of more than 1 W/m/K. 5. Apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the heating module is an inductive heating module. 6. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 3-5, wherein the thermally conductive material has a thermal conductivity greater than 10 W/m/K, alternatively greater than 20 W/m/K, or alternatively greater than 50 W/m/K. 7. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 3-6, in which the channel has a first end and a second end, the first end being closer to the heating chamber than the second end; wherein at least a portion of the inner surface, made of heat-conducting material, has a first end and a second end, and the first end is located closer to the heating chamber than the second end; moreover, the second end of at least a section of the inner surface made of a heat-conducting material is closer to the heating chamber than the second end of the channel, and/or the first end of at least a section of the inner surface made of a heat-conducting material is located at the first end of the channel. 8. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 3-7 further comprising a channel support having an inner surface defining a passage; moreover, at least a section of the inner surface of the channel, made of heat-conducting material, is made in the form of a layer of heat-conducting material on the inner surface of the channel support. 9. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 3-7 further comprising a tubular component made of a thermally conductive material, wherein at least an inner surface portion made of a thermally conductive material provides the tubular component; alternatively, the tubular component provides the entire inner surface of the channel. 10. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 3-9, wherein the thermally conductive material is a ceramic material such as alumina or zirconia, or a metallic material such as aluminium, brass or stainless steel. 11. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 3-10, wherein the thermally conductive material is an electrically conductive material. 12. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 3-11, wherein the thermally conductive material is a ferromagnetic and/or ferrimagnetic material. 13. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-12, in which the heating of the inner surface of the channel during a session of use occurs, at least in part, due to the transfer of heat generated by the heating module. 14. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-13, in which the aerosol delivery device is designed so that the channel is heated during the session of use, and thereby at least a portion of the inner surface reaches a temperature of at least 85°C, alternatively not less than 90°C, also alternatively not less than 95°C and optionally not less than 100°C. 15. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-14, in which the aerosol supply device is configured such that the inner surface of the channel is heated during a session of use so that at least the middle part of the inner surface, which is located in the middle between the first and second ends of the channel, reaches a temperature of at least 70°C, as variant 80°C, also as variant 90°C and as variant 100°C. 16. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-15, in which the heating of the inner surface of the duct leads to heating of the air in the duct to a temperature of at least 120°C, alternatively at least 150°C, also at least 170°C, and alternatively at least 200°C. 17. An aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material; a heating module for heating the aerosol generating material during a usage session; a channel connecting the heating chamber with the outer part of the aerosol supply device; And an air heating unit for heating air in the duct to thereby substantially prevent condensation in the duct. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the air heating module comprises one or more heating elements. 19. The device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein each one or more heating elements of the air heating module are located at a distance from the outside of the device. 20. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 17-19, wherein at least some, optionally all, of the heating elements are resistance heating elements. 21. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 17-20 further comprising at least one aerosol generating material sensor for detecting whether an aerosol generating material is present in the heating chamber, moreover, the device is configured so that the air heating module is controlled depending on the output signal from at least one sensor of the material that generates the aerosol. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the air heating module is configured to heat the air in the duct to a threshold temperature in response to an output signal from at least one aerosol generating material sensor indicating that the aerosol generating material has been removed from the heating chamber. 23. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 17-22, further comprising at least one inhalation sensor for determining whether the user is inhaling the aerosol generated in the device, moreover, the device is configured so that the air heating module is controlled depending on the output signal from at least one inspiratory sensor. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the air heating module is configured to heat the air in the duct to a threshold temperature in response to an output signal from at least one inhalation sensor indicating that the user has inhaled the aerosol generated in the device. 25. The device according to claim 22 or 24, wherein the threshold temperature is greater than or equal to 120°C, alternatively greater than or equal to 150°C, also greater than or equal to 170°C, alternatively greater than or equal to 200°C. 26. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 17-19, 21 and 23, in which the air heating module is configured to heat the air in the duct to a threshold temperature that is greater than or equal to 120°C, alternatively greater than or equal to 150°C, also alternatively greater than or equal to 170°C , also alternatively greater than or equal to 200°C. 27. An aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a heating unit containing an inductor; a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material, in which the aerosol generating material can be heated by the heating unit; and a channel connecting the heating chamber with the opening on the outer part of the aerosol supply device, and at least part of the channel is limited to a component containing the first current collector; wherein the device is configured such that the first pantograph is heated by the inductor to heat the duct, thereby substantially preventing the accumulation of condensate in the duct. 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the first pantograph surrounds at least a portion of the channel. 29. An apparatus according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the heating unit is configured such that the aerosol generating material, if present in the heating chamber, is heated by means of an inductor. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the heating assembly comprises a second current collector that is heated by the inductor to thereby heat the heating chamber. 31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the second pantograph surrounds at least a portion of the heating chamber. 32. The device according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the first pantograph abuts against the second pantograph so as to heat it by transferring heat from the second pantograph. 33. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 27-32, in which the channel has a width greater than or less than the width of the heating chamber. 34. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 27-33, wherein the inductor comprises an inductor, wherein at least a portion of the inductor surrounds at least a portion of the first current collector. 35. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 27-34, which further comprises a support containing heat insulating material and having first and second ends, the first end being closer to the heating chamber than the second end, and the passage extending between the first and second ends; wherein at least a section of the first pantograph is located in the passage. 36. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the first pantograph is spaced from the second end of the support so as to be spaced from the opening. 37. An aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a heating unit containing a heating element that is heated by the heating unit; a heating chamber for inserting an aerosol generating material, in which the aerosol generating material can be heated by a heating element; And a channel connecting the heating chamber with an opening on the outside of the aerosol dispenser, wherein at least a portion of the channel is defined by a component containing a thermally conductive material; wherein the thermally conductive material of the component abuts against the heating element to be heated by heat transfer from the heating element to heat the duct, thereby substantially preventing accumulation of condensate in the duct. 38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the thermally conductive material surrounds at least a portion of the channel. 39. The apparatus of claim 37 or 38, wherein the proximal end of the component surrounds the distal end of the heating element. 40. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 37-39, wherein the heating assembly comprises an inductive heating module and the heating element is a current collector. 41. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 37-40, wherein the heating element surrounds at least a portion of the heating chamber. 42. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 37-41, in which the channel has a width greater than or less than the width of the heating chamber. 43. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 37-42, further comprising a support containing heat insulating material and having first and second ends, the first end being closer to the heating chamber than the second end, and the passage extending between the first and second ends; wherein at least part of the component is located in the passage. 44. The apparatus of claim 43 wherein the component is spaced from the second end of the support so as to be spaced from the opening. 45. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-44, in which the channel is an inlet channel. 46. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-44, in which the channel is an exhaust channel. 47. An aerosol supply device for inserting an article containing an aerosol generating material into it and for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a stopper that prevents the distal end of the article from moving beyond the end position when the article is inserted into the aerosol dispenser; And a heating unit for heating the aerosol generating material during a use session, the heating unit comprising a heating element in which heat is generated during use of the heating unit; moreover, when the article is fully inserted into the device, so that the distal end of the article is located in the extreme position, the first section of the length of the aerosol generating material does not overlap with any heating element heated to heat the article, and the first section extends either a first distance from the distal end of the aerosol generating material towards the proximal end, or a first distance from the proximal end towards the distal end of the aerosol generating material. 48. The apparatus of claim 47 wherein the heating module is an inductive heating module and the heating element is a current collector. 49. The apparatus of claim 47 or 48, wherein the heating element has a distal end that expands outward. 50. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 47-49 further comprising a heating chamber, wherein the heating element surrounds a portion of the heating chamber. 51. The device according to p. 50, further comprising an inlet channel, and the inlet channel connects the heating chamber with an opening on the outer part of the aerosol supply device; moreover, the width of the heating chamber is greater than the width of the inlet channel. 52. The device according to claim 50 or 51, wherein the heating chamber has a distal portion that extends from the distal end of the heating element to the stop, wherein the distal portion has a width that is equal to or greater than the width of the portion of the heating chamber located in the direction towards the proximal end of the distal section. 53. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein the distal portion of the heating chamber is delimited by a thermally insulating material. 54. The apparatus of claim 53 wherein the heat insulating material is plastic and optionally polyetheretherketone. 55. An aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: heating unit and one or more components that limit: a heating chamber for inserting the aerosol generating material, in which the aerosol generating material can be heated by the heating unit; And a channel connecting the heating chamber with the outer part of the aerosol supply device; wherein one or more components provide a hermetic seal where the heating chamber and conduit meet. 56. The apparatus of claim 55, wherein the one or more components comprise at least one channel delimiting component that delimits the channel and at least one heating chamber delimiting component that delimits the heating chamber, and wherein at least one component delimiting the channel is hermetically connected to at least one component delimiting the heating chamber. 57. The apparatus of claim 56 wherein the at least one conduit defining component is sealed to the at least one heating chamber defining component by welding or soldering. 58. The apparatus of claim. 57, wherein welding or soldering is carried out on the outside of at least one of the conduit-limiting component and the heating chamber-limiting component. 59. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 56-58, wherein at least one of the at least one channel-limiting component comprises a thermally conductive material. 60. The device according to claim 55, in which one or more components consist of one component made as a whole. 61. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 55-60, wherein the heating assembly is an inductive heating assembly and includes at least one inductor, and the one or more components provide a first current collector that is heated by the at least one inductor to thereby heat the aerosol generating material to generate the aerosol. 62. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 56-59, 61, wherein at least one heating chamber delimiting component comprises a first current collector. 63. The apparatus of claim 62, wherein the at least one channel defining component comprises a second current collector that is heated by at least one inductor. 64. The device according to claim 63, in which at least one inductor contains a first inductor and a second inductor, wherein the first pantograph is heated by means of the first inductor, wherein the second pantograph is heated by means of the second inductor. 65. The device according to claim 60 or 61, in which at least one inductor contains a first inductor and a second inductor, wherein the first inductor operates to inductively heat the first portion of the integral component, the first portion delimiting the heating chamber and providing said first current collector, and wherein the second inductor operates to inductively heat the second section of the integral component, the second section defining the channel. 66. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 55-65, in which the channel connects the first end of the heating chamber with the first hole on the outside of the aerosol dispenser, where one or more components also define an additional channel that connects the second, opposite, end of the heating chamber with the second hole on the outer part of the aerosol dispenser, and wherein one or more components additionally provide a hermetic seal where the heating chamber and the additional duct meet. 67. The apparatus of claim 66, wherein the passage that connects the first end of the heating chamber to the first opening has a smaller internal width than the heating chamber. 68. The device according to claim 66 or 67, in which the additional channel has a greater internal width than the heating chamber. 69. The method of generating an aerosol, including the use of an aerosol supply device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-68 to heat the aerosol generating material to generate the aerosol. 70. An aerosol generation system, comprising: an aerosol dispenser according to any one of paragraphs. 1-68; And aerosol generating material.