WO2024127017A1

WO2024127017A1 - Aerosol provision system

Info

Publication number: WO2024127017A1
Application number: PCT/GB2023/053230
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gary Fallon; Paul Gibson
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2022-12-15
Filing date: 2023-12-14
Publication date: 2024-06-20
Anticipated expiration: 2025-06-15
Also published as: GB202218992D0; MX2025006908A; AR131368A1; TW202430062A; JP2025538638A; EP4633408A1; CN120417797A; KR20250094740A

Abstract

An aerosol generating material transfer component (100) for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system (10). The aerosol generating material transfer component (100) is formed of an electrically conductive material. An outer surface 102 of the aerosol generating material transfer component (100) defines at least one groove 104. The aerosol generating material transfer component (100) is arranged in direct contact with an aerosol generating component 200.

Description

Aerosol Provision System

Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating material transfer component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, to an article comprising the aerosol generating material transfer component, and to a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising the article.

Background

Non-combustible aerosol provision systems that generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user are known in the art. Such systems typically comprise an aerosol generating component which is capable of converting an aerosolisable material into an aerosol. In some instances, the aerosol generated is a condensation aerosol whereby an aerosolisable material is first vaporised and then allowed to condense into an aerosol. In other instances, the aerosol generated is an aerosol which results from the atomisation of the aerosolisable material. Such atomisation may be induced mechanically, e.g. by subjecting the aerosolisable material to vibrations so as to form small particles of material that are entrained in airflow. Alternatively, such atomisation may be induced electrostatically, or in other ways, such as by using pressure.

Since such aerosol provision systems are intended to generate an aerosol which is to be inhaled by a user, consideration should be given to the characteristics of the aerosol produced. These characteristics can include the size of the particles of the aerosol, the total amount of the aerosol produced, etc.

Where the aerosol provision system is used to simulate a smoking experience, e.g. as an e- cigarette or similar product, control of these various characteristics is especially important since the user may expect a specific sensorial experience to result from the use of the system.

It would be desirable to provide aerosol delivery systems which have improved control of these characteristics.

Summary According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating material transfer component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is formed of an electrically conductive material, and an outer surface of the aerosol generating material transfer component defines at least one groove.

In one aspect, the at least one groove has a depth of at least 0.01 mm.

In one aspect, the at least one groove has a width of at least 0.01 mm.

In one aspect, the at least one groove comprises a plurality of grooves.

In one aspect, an imaginary flat plane forms a plane of best fit through the outer surface.

In one aspect, the outer surface is undulated.

In one aspect, the outer surface is corrugated.

In one aspect, the outer surface is bridge-shaped.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component is formed of a thermally conductive material.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one aspect, the metallic alloy is stainless steel. In one aspect, the stainless steel is stainless steel 316.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component is porous. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component is a mesh.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising: an aerosol generating material transfer component formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol generating material transfer component defines at least one groove; and an aerosol generating component, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce the risk of or prevent electrical short circuiting between respective parts of the aerosol generating component via the aerosol generating material transfer component.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component is directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with the respective parts of the aerosol generating component.

In one aspect, the at least one groove is arranged between sections of the aerosol generating material transfer component directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with the respective parts of the aerosol generating component.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating component comprises a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. Each electrical connector may be arranged at a respective end of the aerosol generating component.

In one aspect (e.g. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component), the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol generating component is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component.

In one aspect (e.g. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component), the percentage decrease (X) from the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol generating component, to the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component, is defined by the following formula:

X = 100*((RAGC — RAGTC)/RAGC) wherein RAGG is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol generating component, and RAGTC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component, wherein X is at least 5%.

In one aspect (e.g. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component), the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component is longer than the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol generating component.

In one aspect (e.g. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component), the current path between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component is tortuous.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating component is formed of an electrically conductive material.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating component comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one aspect, the metal alloy is stainless steel. In one aspect, the stainless steel is stainless steel 316.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating component is substantially planar.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating component comprises at least one elongate aperture. In one aspect, the aerosol generating component comprises elongate apertures. In one aspect, one or more elongate aperture is open. In one aspect, one or more elongate aperture is closed.

In one aspect, the elongate apertures are spaced apart from each other. In one aspect, the elongate apertures are spaced apart from each other along an axis of the aerosol generating component. In one aspect, the elongate apertures are spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating component. In one aspect, the elongate apertures are arranged in parallel with each other. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component is characterised by any features of the aerosol generating material transfer component of an above aspect of the present disclosure.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: an article comprising: an aerosol generating material transfer component formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol generating material transfer component defines at least one groove; and an aerosol generating component, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce the risk of or prevent electrical short circuiting between respective parts of the aerosol generating component via the aerosol generating material transfer component; and a device for connecting to the article and delivering electrical power to the aerosol generating component, the device comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

The article may be characterised in accordance with any features of the article of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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

Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an aerosol provision system according to the present disclosure;

Fig. 2A is a side view of an aerosol generating material transfer component of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 2B is perspective, underside view of the aerosol generating material transfer component Fig. 2A; Fig. 2C; is a side view of the aerosol generating material transfer component of Fig. 2A arranged in direct contact with an aerosol generating component;

Fig. 3A. is a side view of an aerosol generating material transfer component of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 3B is perspective, underside view of the aerosol generating material transfer component Fig. 3A;

Fig. 3C; is a side view of the aerosol generating material transfer component of Fig. 3A arranged in direct contact with an aerosol generating component;

Fig. 4A. is a side view of an aerosol generating material transfer component of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 4B is perspective, underside view of the aerosol generating material transfer component Fig. 4A;

Fig. 4C; is a side view of the aerosol generating material transfer component of Fig. 4A arranged in direct contact with an aerosol generating component;

Fig. 5 is plan view of an aerosol generating component of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

Fig. 6 is an alternative version of Fig. 2C, showing different current paths through the article.

Detailed Description

Aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are discussed/described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be implemented conventionally and these are not discussed/described in detail in the interests of brevity. It will thus be appreciated that aspects and features of articles and systems discussed herein which are not described in detail may be implemented in accordance with any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

As described above, the present disclosure relates, but is not limited, to non-combustible aerosol provision systems and articles that generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material (also referred to herein as “aerosolisable material”) without combusting the aerosolgenerating material. Examples of such systems include electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating systems, and hybrid systems (which generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials). In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosolgenerating material is not a requirement of the present disclosure. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system. In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials in such a hybrid system may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some examples, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

Throughout the following description the terms “e-cigarette” and “electronic cigarette” may sometimes be used. However, it will be appreciated these terms may be used interchangeably with non-combustible aerosol (vapour) provision system or device as explained above.

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

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

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

In some examples, the consumable/article for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area (also referred to herein as a reservoir for aerosolisable material), an aerosol-generating material transfer component (e.g. a wick, such as a pad), an aerosol generator (also referred to herein as an aerosol generating component), an aerosol generation area (also referred to herein as an aerosol generation chamber), a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

The systems described herein typically generate an inhalable aerosol by vaporisation of an aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and/or one or more other functional materials.

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

The term “active substance” as used herein may relate to a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may for example be selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may comprise for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.

The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3- butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate. The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.

As used herein, the term “component” is used to refer to a part, section, unit, module, assembly or similar of an electronic cigarette or similar device that incorporates several smaller parts or elements, possibly within an exterior housing or wall. An electronic cigarette may be formed or built from one or more such components, and the components may be removably or separably connectable to one another, or may be permanently joined together during manufacture to define the whole electronic cigarette. The present disclosure is applicable to (but not limited to) systems comprising two components separably connectable to one another and configured, for example, as a consumable/article component capable of holding an aerosol generating material (also referred to herein as a cartridge or cartomiser), and a device/control unit having a battery for providing electrical power to operate an element for generating vapour from the aerosol generating material.

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

The cartridge assembly 30 includes a storage compartment (also referred to herein as a reservoir) 3 containing an aerosolisable material comprising (for example) a liquid formulation from which an aerosol is to be generated, for example containing nicotine. As an example, the aerosolisable material may comprise around 1 to 3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, with the remainder comprising roughly propylene glycol, and possibly also comprising other components, such as water or flavourings. The storage compartment 3 has the form of a storage tank, being a container or receptacle in which aerosolisable material can be stored such that the aerosolisable material is free to move and flow (if liquid) within the confines of the tank. Alternatively, the storage compartment 3 may contain a quantity of absorbent material such as cotton wadding or glass fibre which holds the aerosolisable material within a porous structure. The storage compartment 3 may be sealed after filling during manufacture so as to be disposable after the aerosolisable material is consumed, or may have an inlet port or other opening through which new aerosolisable material can be added. The cartridge assembly 30 also comprises an electrical aerosol generating component 4 located externally of the reservoir tank 3 for generating the aerosol by vaporisation of the aerosolisable material. In many examples, the aerosol generating component may be a heating element (heater) which is heated by the passage of electrical current (via resistive or inductive heating) to raise the temperature of the aerosolisable material until it evaporates. An aerosol generating material transfer component such as a wick or other porous element (not shown) may be provided to deliver aerosolisable material from the storage compartment 3 to the aerosol generating component 4. The wick may have one or more parts located inside the storage compartment 3 so as to be able to absorb aerosolisable material and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other parts of the wick that are in contact with the aerosol generating component 4. This aerosolisable material is thereby vaporised, and is to be replaced by new aerosolisable material transferred to the aerosol generating component 4 by the wick.

A heater and wick combination, or other arrangement of parts that perform the same functions, is sometimes referred to as an atomiser or atomiser assembly. Various designs are possible, in which the parts may be differently arranged compared to the highly schematic representation of Fig. 1. For example, the wick may be an entirely separate element from the aerosol generating component, or the aerosol generating component may be configured to be porous and able to perform the wicking function directly (by taking the form of a suitable electrically resistive mesh or capillary body, for example).

In some cases, the aerosol generating material transfer component for delivering liquid for vapour generation may be formed at least in part from one or more slots, tubes or channels between the storage compartment and the aerosol generating component which are narrow enough to support capillary action to draw source liquid out of the storage compartment and deliver it for vaporisation. In general, an atomiser can be considered to be an aerosol generating component able to generate vapour from aerosolisable material delivered to it, and a liquid conduit (pathway) able to deliver or transport liquid from a storage compartment or similar liquid store to the aerosol generating component by a capillary force.

Typically, the aerosol generating component is at least partly located within an aerosol generating chamber that forms part of an airflow channel through the electronic cigarette/system. Vapour produced by the aerosol generating component is driven off into this chamber, and as air passes through the chamber, flowing over and around the aerosol generating component, it collects the produced vapour whereby it condenses to form the required aerosol.

Returning to Fig. 1, the cartridge assembly 30 also includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening or air outlet through which a user may inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 4, and delivered through the airflow channel.

The power component 20 includes a cell 5 (also referred to herein as a battery, and which may be re-chargeable) to provide power for electrical components of the e-cigarette 10, in particular the aerosol generating component 4. Additionally, there is a printed circuit board 28 and/or other electronics or circuitry for generally controlling the e-cigarette. The control electronics/circuitry connect the vapour generating element 4 to the battery 5 when vapour is required, for example in response to a signal from an air pressure sensor or air flow sensor (not shown) that detects an inhalation on the system 10 during which air enters through one or more air inlets 26 in the wall of the power component 20 to flow along the airflow channel. When the aerosol generating component 4 receives power from the battery 5, the aerosol generating component 4 vaporises aerosolisable material delivered from the storage compartment 3 to generate the aerosol, and this is then inhaled by a user through the opening in the mouthpiece 35. The aerosol is carried to the mouthpiece 35 along the airflow channel (not shown) that connects the air inlet 26 to the air outlet when a user inhales on the mouthpiece 35. An airflow path through the electronic cigarette is hence defined, between the air inlet(s) (which may or may not be in the power component) to the atomiser and on to the air outlet at the mouthpiece. In use, the air flow direction along this airflow path is from the air inlet to the air outlet, so that the atomiser can be described as lying downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the air outlet.

In this particular example, the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 are separate parts detachable from one another by separation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, as indicated by the solid arrows in Fig. 1. The components 20, 30 are joined together when the device 10 is in use by cooperating engagement elements 21 , 31 (for example, a screw, magnetic or bayonet fitting) which provide mechanical and electrical connectivity between the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly 30. This is merely an example arrangement, however, and the various components may be differently distributed between the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly section 30, and other components and elements may be included. The two sections may connect together end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration as in Fig. 1 , or in a different configuration such as a parallel, side- by-side arrangement. The system may or may not be generally cylindrical and/or have a generally longitudinal shape. Either or both sections may be intended to be disposed of and replaced when exhausted (the reservoir is empty or the battery is flat, for example), or be intended for multiple uses enabled by actions such as refilling the reservoir, recharging the battery, or replacing the atomiser. Alternatively, the e-cigarette 10 may be a unitary device (disposable or refillable/rechargeable) that cannot be separated into two or more parts, in which case all components are comprised within a single body or housing. Examples of the present invention are applicable to any of these configurations and other configurations of which the skilled person will be aware.

As mentioned, a type of aerosol generating component, such as a heating element, that may be utilised in an atomising portion of an electronic cigarette (a part configured to generate vapour from a source liquid) combines the functions of heating and liquid delivery, by being both electrically conductive (resistive) and porous. Note here that reference to being electrically conductive (resistive) refers to components which have the capacity to generate heat in response to the flow of electrical current therein. Such flow could be imparted by via so-called resistive heating or induction heating. An example of a suitable material for this is an electrically conductive material such as a metal or metal alloy formed into a sheet-like form, i.e. a planar shape with a thickness many times smaller than its length or breadth. Examples in this regard may be a mesh, web, grill and the like. The mesh may be formed from metal wires or fibres which are woven together, or alternatively aggregated into a nonwoven structure. For example, fibres may be aggregated by sintering, in which heat and/or pressure are applied to a collection of metal fibres to compact them into a single porous mass. It is possible for the planar aerosol generating component to define a curved plane and in these instances reference to the planar aerosol generating component forming a plane means an imaginary flat plane forming a plane of best fit through the component.

These structures can give appropriately sized voids and interstices between the metal fibres to provide a capillary force for wicking liquid. Thus, these structures can also be considered to be porous since they provide for the uptake and distribution of liquid. Moreover, due to the presence of voids and interstices between the metal fibres, it is possible for air to permeate through said structures. Also, the metal is electrically conductive and therefore suitable for resistive heating, whereby electrical current flowing through a material with electrical resistance generates heat. Structures of this type are not limited to metals, however. Other conductive materials may be formed into fibres and made into mesh, grill or web structures. Examples include ceramic materials, which may or may not be doped with substances intended to tailor the physical properties of the mesh.

A planar sheet-like porous aerosol generating component of this kind can be arranged within an electronic cigarette such that it lies within the aerosol generating chamber forming part of an airflow channel. The aerosol generating component may be oriented within the chamber such that air flow though the chamber may flow in a surface direction, i.e. substantially parallel to the plane of the generally planar sheet-like aerosol generating component. An example of such a configuration can be found in W02010/045670 and WO2010/045671 , the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. Air can thence flow over the heating element, and gather vapour. Aerosol generation is thereby made very effective. In alternative examples, the aerosol generating component may be oriented within the chamber such that air flow though the chamber may flow in a direction which is substantially transverse to the surface direction, i.e. substantially orthogonally to the plane of the generally planar sheet-like aerosol generating component. An example of such a configuration can be found in WO2018/211252, the contents of which are incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

The aerosol generating component may have, and/or be formed of, any one of the following structures: a woven or weave structure, mesh structure, fabric structure, open-pored fiber structure, open-pored sintered structure, open-pored foam or open-pored deposition structure. Said structures are suitable in particular for providing an aerosol generating component with a high degree of porosity. A high degree of porosity may ensure that the heat produced by the aerosol generating component is predominately used for evaporating the liquid and high efficiency can be obtained. A porosity of greater than 50% may be envisaged with said structures. In one embodiment, the porosity of the aerosol generating component is 50% or greater, 60% or greater, 70% or greater. The open-pored fiber structure can consist, for example, of a non-woven fabric which can be arbitrarily compacted, and can additionally be sintered in order to improve the cohesion. The open-pored sintered structure can consist, for example, of a granular, fibrous or flocculent sintered composite produced by a film casting process. The open-pored deposition structure can be produced, for example, by a CVD process, PVD process or by flame spraying. Open-pored foams are in principle commercially available and are also obtainable in a thin, fine-pored design.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating component is formed from a single layer. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating component has at least two layers, wherein the layers contain at least one of the following structures: a plate, foil, paper, mesh, woven structure, fabric, open-pored fiber structure, open-pored sintered structure, open-pored foam or open- pored deposition structure. For example, the aerosol generating component can be formed by an electric heating resistor consisting of a metal foil combined with a structure comprising a capillary structure. Where the aerosol generating component is considered to be formed from a single layer, such a layer may be formed from a metal wire fabric, or from a nonwoven metal fiber fabric. Individual layers are advantageously but not necessarily connected to one another by a heat treatment, such as sintering or welding. For example, the aerosol generating component can be designed as a sintered composite consisting of a stainless steel foil and one or more layers of a stainless steel wire fabric (material, for example AISI 304 or AISI 316). Alternatively, the aerosol generating component can be designed as a sintered composite consisting of at least two layers of a stainless steel wire fabric. The layers may be connected to one another by spot welding or resistance welding. Individual layers may also be connected to one another mechanically. For instance, a double-layer wire fabric could be produced just by folding a single layer. Instead of stainless steel, use may also be made, by way of example, of heating conductor alloys-in particular NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys ("Kanthal") which have an even higher specific electric resistance than stainless steel. The material connection between the layers is obtained by the heat treatment, as a result of which the layers maintain contact with one another-even under adverse conditions, for example during heating by the aerosol generating component and resultantly induced thermal expansions. Alternatively, the aerosol generating component may be formed from sintering a plurality of individual fibers together. Thus, the aerosol generating component can be comprised of sintered fibers, such as sintered metal fibers.

The aerosol generating component may comprise, for example, an electrically conductive thin layer of electrically resistive material, such as platinum, nickel, molybdenum, tungsten or tantalum, said thin layer being applied to a surface of the vaporizer by a PVD or CVD process, or any other suitable process. In this case, the aerosol generating component may comprise an electrically insulating material, for example of ceramic. Examples of suitable electrically resistive material include stainless steels, such as AISI 304 or AISI 316, and heating conductor alloys-in particular NiCr alloys and CrFeAl alloys ("Kanthal"), such as DIN material number 2,4658, 2,4867, 2,4869, 2,4872, 1,4843, 1,4860, 1,4725, 1,4765 and 1 ,4767.

As described above, the aerosol generating component may be formed from a sintered metal fiber material and may be in the form of a sheet. Material of this sort can be thought of a mesh or irregular grid, and is created by sintering together a randomly aligned arrangement or array of spaced apart metal fibers or strands. A single layer of fibers might be used, or several layers, for example up to five layers. As an example, the metal fibers may have a diameter of 8 to 12 pm, arranged to give a sheet of thickness 0.16 mm, and spaced to produce a material density of from 100 g/m² to 1500 g/m², such as from 150 g/m² to 1000 g/m², 200 g/m² to 500 g/m², or 200 to 250 g/m², and a porosity of 84%. The sheet thickness may also range from 0.1mm to 0.2mm, such as 0.1mm to 0.15mm. Specific thicknesses include 0.10 mm, 0.11 mm, 0.12mm, 0.13 mm, 0.14 mm, 0.15 mm or 0.1 mm. Generally, the aerosol generating component has a uniform thickness. However, it will be appreciated from the discussion below that the thickness of the aerosol generating component may also vary. This may be due, for example, to some parts of the aerosol generating component having undergone compression. Different fiber diameters and thicknesses may be selected to vary the porosity of the aerosol generating component. For example, the aerosol generating component may have a porosity of 66% or greater, or 70% or greater, or 75% or greater, or 80% or greater or 85% or greater, or 86% or greater.

The aerosol generating component may form a generally flat structure, comprising first and second surfaces. The generally flat structure may take the form of any two dimensional shape, for example, circular, semi-circular, triangular, square, rectangular and/ or polygonal.

A width and/or length of the aerosol generating component may be from about 1 mm to about 50mm. For example, the width and/or length of the vaporizer may be from 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm or 10 mm. The width may generally be smaller than the length of the aerosol generating component. It will be understood that the dimensions of the aerosol generating component may be varied.

Where the aerosol generating component is formed from an electrically resistive material, electrical current is permitted to flow through the aerosol generating component so as to generate heat (so called Joule heating). In this regard, the electrical resistance of the aerosol generating component can be selected appropriately. For example, the aerosol generating component may have an electrical resistance of 2 ohms or less, such as 1.8 ohms or less, such as 1.7 ohms or less, such as 1.6 ohms or less, such as 1.5 ohms or less, such as 1.4 ohms or less, such as 1.3 ohms or less, such as 1.2 ohms or less, such as 1.1 ohms or less, such as 1.0 ohm or less, such as 0.9 ohms or less, such as 0.8 ohms or less, such as 0.7 ohms or less, such as 0.6 ohms or less, such as 0.5 ohms or less. The parameters of the aerosol generating component, such as material, thickness, width, length, porosity etc. can be selected so as to provide the desired resistance. In this regard, a relatively lower resistance will facilitate higher power draw from the power source, which can be advantageous in producing a high rate of aerosolisation. On the other hand, the resistance should not be so low so as to prejudice the integrity of the aerosol generator. For example, the resistance may not be lower than 0.5 ohms. The aerosol generating component may have a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be arranged at opposing ends of the aerosol generating component from each other. The electrical resistance may be between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector. Each of the electrical connectors may be for connection to an electrical contact such that the aerosol generating component can be energised. For example, the electrical connectors may be for connection to a power source via the electrical contacts.

Planar aerosol generating components, such as heating elements, suitable for use in systems, devices and articles disclosed herein may be formed by stamping or cutting (such as laser cutting) the required shape from a larger sheet of porous material. This may include stamping out, cutting away or otherwise removing material to create openings in the aerosol generating component. These openings can influence both the ability for air to pass through the aerosol generating component and the propensity for electrical current to flow in certain areas.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating material transfer component 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system 10, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is formed of an electrically conductive material, and an outer surface 102 of the aerosol generating material transfer component defines at least one groove 104.

The present inventors have discovered that during use of articles in which an aerosol generating material transfer component may, under certain conditions, directly contact respective parts of an aerosol generating component, there can be a risk of electrical short circuiting between the respective parts of the aerosol generating component via the aerosol generating material transfer component. The short circuiting can reduce the performance of or damage the article and/or components thereof. By virtue of the at least one groove 104, the article 30 can be provided such that the risk of electrical short circuiting between the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is obviated or ameliorated. Without being bound by theory, the at least one groove 104 is considered to increase the electrical resistance of the current path between the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 (i.e. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the aerosol generating component 200). Without being bound by theory, the electrical resistance of the current path may be increased by increasing the length of the current path and/or decreasing the cross-sectional area of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100. By increasing the electrical resistance of the current path between the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100, the risk of electrical short circuiting between the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 can be reduced or eliminated.

Example aerosol generating material transfer components 100 are shown in Figs. 2A to 4C.

As shown in Figs. 2A to 4C, the at least one groove 104 may be elongate. The at least one groove may extend from one side of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 to another side (e.g. an opposite side) of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100, as shown in Figs. 2A to 4C.

In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.01 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.02 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.03 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.04 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.05 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.06 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.07 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.08 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.09 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.1 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.12 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.15 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.2 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.25 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.3 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a depth of at least 0.4 mm. The depth may be the maximum depth. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.01 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.02 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.03 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.04 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.05 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.06 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.07 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.08 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.09 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.1 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.12 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.15 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.2 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.25 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.3 mm. In one aspect, each of the at least one groove 104 has a width of at least 0.4 mm. The width may be the maximum width.

The depth “d” and width “w” of the at least one groove 104 are illustrated in Figs. 2C, 3C, and 4C.

As can be understood from Figs. 2A to 4C, an imaginary flat plane may form a plane of best fit through the outer surface 102 defining the at least one groove 104. Where there are multiple grooves 104, the grooves may be arranged in series. The outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. The grooves 104 may be separate from each other.

Referring to Figs. 2A to 2C, the outer surface 102 defining the at least one groove 104 may be corrugated. The corrugations of the outer surface 102 may define the at least one groove 104. For example, the corrugations of the outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a polygonal (e.g. triangular) profile. Each ridge 103 may have a polygonal (e.g. triangular) profile.

Referring to Figs. 3A to 3C, the outer surface 102 defining the at least one groove 104 may be undulated. The undulations of the outer surface 102 104 may define the at least one groove 104. For example, the undulations of the outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a curved profile. Referring to Figs. 4A to 4C, the outer surface 102 defining the at least one groove 104 may be bridge-shaped. For example, the bridge-shaped the outer surface 102 may define a series of alternating grooves 104 and ridges 103. Each groove 104 may have a polygonal (e.g. rectangular) profile. Each ridge 103 may have a polygonal (e.g. rectangular) profile.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be formed of a thermally conductive material. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 W/mK (Watts per metre-Kelvin). In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 2 W/mK. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 4 W/mK. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 5 W/mK. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 8 W/mK. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 10 W/mK. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 12 W/mK. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 14 W/mK. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 15 W/mK.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 x10⁵ S/m (Siemens per metre). In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 2 x10⁵ S/m. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 5 xio⁵ S/m. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 xio⁶ S/m. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer componentlOO has an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1.2 xio⁶ S/m. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1.4 xio⁶ S/m. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 has an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1.4 xio⁶ S/m. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 comprises or is formed of a metallic material. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal. In one aspect, the metallic material is a metal alloy. In one aspect, the metallic alloy is stainless steel. In one aspect, the stainless steel is stainless steel 316.

In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is porous. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is a mesh.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 30 for use as part of a noncombustible aerosol provision system 10, the article 30 comprising: an aerosol generating material transfer component 100 formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 defines at least one groove 104; and an aerosol generating component 200, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 200, wherein the at least one groove 104 is configured to reduce the risk of or prevent electrical short circuiting between respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100.

The aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be characterised by any features of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 of an above aspect of the present disclosure.

Example arrangements of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the aerosol generating component 200 as provided in the article 30 are depicted in Figs. 2C, 3C, and 4C. The other components of the article 30 art not illustrated but will be known to those skilled in the art.

As will be understood from Figs. 2C, 3C, and 4C, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 100. For example, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200. The “respective parts” are shown in Figs. 2C, 3C, and 4C (i.e. where there is direct contact between the respective components 100, 200).

“Directly contactable” means that the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 can, but need not necessarily, directly contact the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200. In other words, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be spaced apart from the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200, such that an empty space between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 is provided. In this way, direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 can occur, e.g. through general use of the article 30, which may cause relative movement of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and/or the aerosol generating component 200. “Direct contact” between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 is illustrated in Figs. 2C, 3C, and 4C.

Referring again to Figs. 2C, 3C, and 4C, the at least one groove 104 may be arranged between sections of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200.

In one aspect, the “internal structure” (e.g. due to any pores or interstices) of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may not be considered as part of the at least one groove 104.

Fig. 5 shows an example aerosol generating component 200. The aerosol generating component 200 may be formed of an electrically conductive material. The aerosol generating component 200 may comprise a metallic material. The aerosol generating component 200 may be formed of a metallic material. The metallic material may be a metal. The metallic material may be a metal alloy. The metal alloy may be stainless steel, e.g. stainless steel 316. The aerosol generating component 200 may be substantially planar.

The aerosol generating component 200 comprises an aerosol generating section 202 configured to generate aerosol from an aerosolisable material. The aerosol generating component 200 may be an electrically resistive heating element. The aerosol generating component 200 may comprises a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204. Each electrical connector 203, 204 may be arranged at a respective end of the aerosol generating component 200. The electrical connectors may take any form which facilitates an electrical connection. For example, the electrical connectors may correspond to contact points (e.g. tabs which can form an electrical connection by contact alone with an electrical contact), and/or comprise secure connection means for secure connection to an electrical contact.

The aerosol generating component 200 may comprise at least one elongate aperture 205, such as a plurality of elongate apertures 205. Herein, “aperture” requires a through-hole. One or more elongate aperture 205 may be open, as shown in Fig. 5. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more elongate aperture 205 may be closed. The arrangement of open and/closed apertures 205 may be varied.

The elongate apertures 205 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the elongate apertures 205 may be spaced apart from each other along an axis (e.g. the longitudinal axis, as shown in Fig. 5) of the aerosol generating component 200. The elongate apertures 205 may be arranged in parallel with each other. The elongate apertures 205 may be arranged in series. A first series of elongate apertures 205 may be arranged along a first edge of the aerosol generating component 200. A second series of elongate apertures 205 may be arranged along a second (e.g. opposite from the first) edge of the aerosol generating component 200. The first series and the second series may be offset from each other, for example as shown in Fig. 5. The elongate apertures 205 may be slots or slits. The elongate apertures 205 increase the electrical resistance through the aerosol generating component 200 (e.g. measured between the first and second electrical connectors 203, 204), e.g. by increasing the current path length through the aerosol generating component 200 and/or reducing the cross sectional area of the aerosol generating component 200 through which the current path flows. In one aspect, the or each elongate aperture 205 extends through at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the width (or length) of the aerosol generating component 200. In one aspect, the width of the or each elongate aperture 205 is at least 0.05 mm, at least 0.08 mm, at least 0.1 mm, at least 0.12 mm, at least 0.14 mm, at least 0.16 mm, at least 0.18 mm, or at least 0.2 mm.

The aerosol generating section 202 is configured to be heated to an aerosolisation temperature for aerosolising aerosolisable material. The aerosol generating section 202 may comprise or be formed of a plurality of elongate heating sections 206. The elongate heating sections 206 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the elongate heating sections 206 may be spaced apart from each other along an axis (e.g. the longitudinal axis) of the aerosol generating component 200. The elongate heating sections 206 may be arranged in parallel with each other. The elongate heating sections 206 may be arranged in series. The elongate heating sections 206 are configured to be heated to an aerosolisation temperature for aerosolising aerosolisable material.

In one aspect (e.g. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200), the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 200 may be less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100. In one aspect (e.g. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200), the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be longer than the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 100. In one aspect (e.g. when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200), the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be tortuous.

These concepts are illustrated in Fig. 6, in which the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 200 is indicated by arrow “A”, and the current path between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is indicated by arrow “B”. The current path herein is the path of least electrical resistance through the aerosol generating component 200 only, or through the aerosol generating component 200 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100.

Herein, “the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 200 is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100” means the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 by way of a current path that traverses only the aerosol generating component 200 is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 by way of any current path that traverses the aerosol generating material transfer component 100.

Herein, “between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100” means from the first electrical connector 203, through an upstream section of the aerosol generating component (e.g. an upstream section of the aerosol generating section 202), through at least part of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100, through a downstream section of the aerosol generating component (e.g. a downstream section of the aerosol generating section 202), to the second electrical connector 204. “Upstream” and “downstream” in this context are with respect to the direction of current flow.

The percentage decrease (X) from the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 200, to the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100, is defined by the following formula:

X = 100*((RAGC — RAGTC)/RAGC) wherein RAGG is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 200, and RAGTC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100, wherein X is at least 5%.

X may be at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 12%, at least 14%, at least 16%, at least 18%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, or at least 50%.

The aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may have an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 x10⁵ S/m (Siemens per metre), at least 2 x10⁵ S/m, at least 5 xio⁵ S/m, at least 1 xio⁶ S/m, at least 1.2 xio⁶ S/m, at least 1.4 xio⁶ S/m, or at least 1.4 xio⁶ S/m. The aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be formed of a thermally conductive material. In this way, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 can effectively distribute (and/or dissipate) heat so as to avoid or reduce the risk of formation of localised “hot spots” in use. By contrast, aerosol generating material transfer components with a relatively poor thermal conductivity, such as cotton, can experience localised “hot spots”. In cotton, these localised “hot spots” can result in inadvertent formation of carbonyls.

The aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may have a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 W/mK (Watts per metre-Kelvin), at least 2 W/mK, at least 4 W/mK, at least 5 W/mK, at least 8 W/mK, at least 10 W/mK, at least 12 W/mK, at least 14 W/mK, or at least 15 W/mK.

The aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may comprise a metallic material. The aerosol generating material transfer component 100 may be formed of a metallic material. The metallic material may be a metal. The metallic material may be a metal alloy. The metal alloy may be stainless steel, e.g. stainless steel 316. In one aspect, the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 comprises or is formed of a mesh.

The aerosol generating component 200 may have an electrical conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 xio⁵ S/m (Siemens per metre), at least 2 x10⁵ S/m, at least 5 x10⁵ S/m, at least 1 xio⁶ S/m, at least 1.2 xio⁶ S/m, at least 1.4 xio⁶ S/m, or at least 1.4 x10⁶ S/m.

The aerosol generating component 200 may be formed of a thermally conductive material.

The aerosol generating component 200 may have a thermal conductivity at atmospheric pressure and 20°C of at least 1 W/mK (Watts per metre-Kelvin), at least 2 W/mK, at least 4 W/mK, at least 5 W/mK, at least 8 W/mK, at least 10 W/mK, at least 12 W/mK, at least 14 W/mK, or at least 15 W/mK.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article 30 for use as part of a noncombustible aerosol provision system 10, the article 30 comprising: an aerosol generating material transfer component 100 formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 defines at least one groove 104; and an aerosol generating component 200 comprising a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 200, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200, wherein when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200, the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 200 is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100.

The article 30 may be characterised by any features of the article 30 of an above aspect of the present disclosure.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system 10 comprising: article 30 comprising: an aerosol generating material transfer component 100 formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 defines at least one groove 104; and an aerosol generating component 200, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 200, wherein the at least one groove 104 is configured to reduce the risk of or prevent electrical short circuiting between respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100; and a device 20 for connecting to the article 30 and delivering electrical power to the aerosol generating component 200, the device comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

The article 30 may be characterised by any features of the article 30 of an above aspect of the present disclosure. In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol provision system 10 comprising: an article 30 comprising: an aerosol generating material transfer component 100 formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface 102 of the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 defines at least one groove 104; and an aerosol generating component 200 comprising a first electrical connector 203 and a second electrical connector 204, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 200, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 is directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200, wherein when there is direct contact between the aerosol generating material transfer component 100 and the respective parts of the aerosol generating component 200, the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 through only the aerosol generating component 200 is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector 203 and the second electrical connector 204 via the aerosol generating material transfer component 100; and a device 20 for connecting to the article 30 and delivering electrical power to the aerosol generating component 200, the device 20 comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

Any aspect of the present disclosure may be defined in relation to any of the other aspects of the present disclosure. For example, one aspect of the present disclosure may include any of the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure and/or the features of one aspect of the present disclosure may be as defined in relation to the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

The figures herein are schematic and not drawn to scale. The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating material transfer component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is formed of an electrically conductive material, and an outer surface of the aerosol generating material transfer component defines at least one groove.

2. An aerosol generating material transfer component according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one groove has a depth of at least 0.01 mm.

3. An aerosol generating material transfer component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one groove has a width of at least 0.01 mm.

4. An aerosol generating material transfer component according to any one of claims 1 to

3, wherein the at least one groove comprises a plurality of grooves.

5. An aerosol generating material transfer component according to any one of claims 1 to

4, wherein an imaginary flat plane forms a plane of best fit through the outer surface.

6. An aerosol generating material transfer component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outer surface is undulated.

7. The aerosol generating material transfer component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outer surface is corrugated.

8. The aerosol generating material transfer component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outer surface is bridge-shaped.

9. An aerosol generating material transfer component according to any one of claims 1 to

8, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is formed of a thermally conductive material.

10. An aerosol generating material transfer component according to any one of claims 1 to

9, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises or is formed of a metallic material.

11. An article for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the article comprising:

29

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) an aerosol generating material transfer component formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol generating material transfer component defines at least one groove; and an aerosol generating component, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce the risk of or prevent electrical short circuiting between respective parts of the aerosol generating component via the aerosol generating material transfer component.

12. An article according to claim 11, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with the respective parts of the aerosol generating component.

13. An article according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the at least one groove is arranged between sections of the aerosol generating material transfer component directly contactable or arranged in direct contact with the respective parts of the aerosol generating component.

14. An article according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the aerosol generating component comprises a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector.

15. An article according to claim 14, wherein the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol generating component is less than the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component.

16. An article according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the percentage decrease (X) from the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol generating component, to the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component, is defined by the following formula:

X = 100*((RAGC — RAGTC)/RAGC)

30

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) wherein RAGG is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector through only the aerosol generating component, and RAGTC is the electrical resistance between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector via the aerosol generating material transfer component, wherein X is at least 5%.

17. An article according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the aerosol generating component comprises or is formed of a metallic material.

18. An article according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the aerosol generating component is substantially planar.

19. An article according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the aerosol generating component comprises at least one elongate aperture.

20. An article according to claim 19, wherein the or each elongate aperture is open at the periphery of the aerosol generating component.

21. An article according to any one of claims 11 to 20, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is characterised by any one of claims 2 to 10.

22. A non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: an article comprising: an aerosol generating material transfer component formed of an electrically conductive material, wherein an outer surface of the aerosol generating material transfer component defines at least one groove; and an aerosol generating component, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component is arranged to deliver aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component, wherein the at least one groove is configured to reduce the risk of or prevent electrical short circuiting between respective parts of the aerosol generating component via the aerosol generating material transfer component; and a device for connecting to the article and delivering electrical power to the aerosol generating component, the device comprising one or more of a power source and a controller.

23. An aerosol provision system according to claim 22, wherein the article is characterised according to any one of claims 12 to 20.

31

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)