WO2025056375A1

WO2025056375A1 - An aerosol provision device

Info

Publication number: WO2025056375A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/074598
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marcus Hartley; Mark Potter
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2023-09-12
Filing date: 2024-09-03
Publication date: 2025-03-20
Anticipated expiration: 2026-03-12
Also published as: GB202313911D0

Abstract

An aerosol provision device (200) comprising an article receiving portion (206) configured to receive, in use, an article (300) comprising an aerosol generating material (302) and a heating arrangement (312) comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material. The aerosol provision device also comprises an electrical connector (230) for supplying power to an article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts (232) for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article. One or more of the connector electrical contacts comprise one or more device magnetic components (390) respectively, the one or more device magnetic components being configured to apply a force to an article, that forces the article into a position in which the plurality of connector electrical contacts engage a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts.

Description

AN AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE

Technical Field The present invention relates to an aerosol provision device, and an article for an aerosol provision device, the article comprising aerosol generating material.

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

Aerosol provision systems, which cover the aforementioned devices or products, are known. Common systems use heaters to create an aerosol from a suitable medium which is then inhaled by a user. Often the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide a different aerosol for inhalation. It is known to use resistive heating systems as heaters to create an aerosol from a suitable medium.

Summary According to an aspect there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: an article receiving portion configured to receive, in use, an article comprising an aerosol generating material and a heating arrangement comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material; and an electrical connector for supplying power to an article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article, wherein one or more of the connector electrical contacts comprise one or more device magnetic components respectively, the one or more device magnetic components being configured to apply a force to an article, when the article is being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the plurality of connector electrical contacts engage a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article. In embodiments the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may comprise one or more permanent magnets.

In embodiments, the one or more device magnetic components comprise a magnetic or magnetisable material. For example, a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material. In embodiments the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more electromagnets.

In embodiments the one or more electromagnets comprise one or more coils. In embodiments the one or more electromagnets comprise one or more magnetic cores, wherein each of the one or more coils is wrapped around a respective magnetic core of the one or more magnetic cores. The magnetic core may comprise a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material In embodiments the magnet, magnetic core or the magnetisable material comprises one or more of iron, cobalt, nickel, or a rare earth metal.

In embodiments the magnet, magnetic core or the magnetisable material comprises a samarium-cobalt alloy, or a neodymium-iron-boron alloy.

In embodiments the one or more device magnetic components comprises a plurality of device magnetic components.

In embodiments the aerosol provision device is an elongate aerosol provision device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol provision device defines a distal end which is directed away from the user when in use.

In embodiments one or more of the one or more device magnetic components are positioned in the aerosol provision device to longitudinally overlap the article receiving portion. In embodiments the one or more device magnetic components comprises a plurality of device magnetic components, and a plurality of connector electrical contacts of the plurality of connector electrical contacts each comprise a device magnetic component of the plurality of device magnetic components.

In embodiments the electrical connector is arranged in the article receiving portion.

According to an aspect there is provided an article for an aerosol provision device, comprising: an aerosol generating material; a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements, and a plurality of article electrical contacts wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; and wherein one or more of the article electrical contacts comprise one or more article magnetic components, the one or more article magnetic components being configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol provision device configured to receive the article, and apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, that forces the article into a position in which the article electrical contacts engage corresponding connector electrical contacts of the aerosol provision device.

In embodiments of any of the above the one or more article magnetic components comprise a magnetic or magnetisable material. In embodiments, the magnetisable material comprises a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material. In embodiments, the one or more article magnetic components comprise a magnet. The magnetic material may form the magnet.

According to an aspect there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: an article comprising: an aerosol generating material and a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements, and a plurality of article electrical contacts comprising at least a first and second article electrical contact, wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; and one or more article magnetic components; wherein the system further comprises an aerosol provision device, comprising: an article receiving portion configured to receive, in use, the article; an electrical connector for supplying power to the article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article, the plurality of connector electrical contacts comprising at least a first and second connector electrical contact; and one or more device magnetic components, configured to apply a force to the one or more article magnetic components, when being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the first and second article electrical contacts of the article engage the first and second connector electrical contacts of the electrical connector respectively.

In embodiments of any of the above, the plurality of article electrical contacts comprises a third article electrical contact and the plurality of connector electrical contacts comprises a third connector electrical contact, and the one or more device magnetic components are configured to apply a force to the one or more article magnetic components, when being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the first, second, and third article electrical contacts of the article engage the first, second, and third connector electrical contacts of the electrical connector respectively. In embodiments of any of the above the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may comprise one or more permanent magnets.

In some embodiments, the one or more device magnetic components comprise a magnetic or magnetisable material. The magnetisable material may comprise a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material.

In embodiments of any of the above the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more electromagnets.

In embodiments of any of the above the one or more device magnetic components comprises a plurality of device magnetic components.

In embodiments of any of the above the aerosol provision device is an elongate aerosol provision device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol provision device defines a distal end which is directed away from the user when in use. In embodiments of any of the above one or more of the one or more device magnetic components are positioned in the aerosol provision device distal to the article receiving portion.

In embodiments of any of the above one or more of the one or more device magnetic components are positioned in the aerosol provision device to longitudinally overlap the article receiving portion. According to an aspect there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: an article receiving portion configured to receive, in use, an article comprising an aerosol generating material and a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements and a plurality of article electrical contacts comprising a first and second article electrical contact, wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of the article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; an electrical connector for supplying power to an article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article, the plurality of connector electrical contacts comprising at least a first and second connector electrical contact; and one or more device magnetic components, configured to apply a force to one or more magnetic components of an article, when the article is being inserted into the article interface, that forces the article into a position in which the first and second connector electrical contacts engage corresponding first and second article electrical contacts of the article respectively.

In embodiments of any of the above, the electrical connector comprises a third connector electrical contact, wherein the plurality of article electrical contacts comprises a third article electrical contact, and wherein one or more device magnetic components are configured to apply a force to one or more of the magnetic components of an article, when the article is being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the first, second, and third connector electrical contacts engage corresponding first, second, and third article electrical contacts of the article respectively. In embodiments of any of the above the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may comprise one or more permanent magnets The one or more device magnetic components may comprise a magnetic or magnetisable material. The magnetisable material may comprise a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material.

In embodiments of any of the above the one or more device magnetic components comprises a plurality of device magnetic components. According to an aspect there is provided an article for an aerosol provision device, comprising: an aerosol generating material; a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements, and a plurality of article electrical contacts comprising a first and second article electrical contact, wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; and one or more article magnetic components, configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol provision device configured to receive the article, and apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, that forces the article into a position in which the first and second article electrical contacts of the article engage corresponding first and second connector electrical contacts of the aerosol provision device respectively.

In embodiments of any of the above, the plurality of article electrical contacts comprises a third article electrical contact, and wherein the one or more article magnetic components are configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol provision device configured to receive the article, and apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, that forces the article into a position in which the first, second, and third article electrical contacts of the article engage corresponding first, second, and third connector electrical contacts of the aerosol provision device respectively. In embodiments of any of the above the one or more article magnetic components comprise one or more magnets. The one or more magnets may comprise one or more permanent magnets. The one or more article magnetic components may comprise a magnetic or magnetisable material. The magnetisable material may comprise a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material. In embodiments of any of the above, the one or more device magnetic components and/or the one or more of the article magnetic components comprise a magnet (e.g. a permanent magnet or an electromagnet). In embodiments of any of the above, the one or more device magnetic components and/or the one or more of the article magnetic components comprise a magnetic or magnetisable material. The magnetisable material may comprise a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material. Where one of the device magnetic component(s) or the article magnetic component(s) comprises a magnetisable material (e.g. a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material), the other of the device magnetic component(s) and the article magnetic component(s) may comprise a magnet (e.g. a permanent magnet or electromagnet) which magnetically engages with the magnetisable material.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the article may be formed from a plurality of layers. The plurality of layers may form a layered structure. At least one of the layers may comprise a resistive heating layer and at least one of the layers may comprise an aerosol generating layer. At least one of the layers may comprise a support configured to support the resistive heating layer. At least one of the layers may at least partially define an air flow path through the article. At least one of the layers may comprise an outermost layer which encloses at least one other layer of the article (e.g. the resistive heating layer). The outermost layer may be considered to be a wrap or sleeve. At least one of the plurality of layers may form a body of the article. Such an at least one of the plurality of layers which forms the body of the article may be considered to be a body layer. At least one of the layers may define an air inlet of the article and/or an air outlet of the article, or indeed any other feature of the article. In embodiments of any of the above the aerosol generating material is in form of a sheet. In embodiments of any of the above the heating arrangement comprises an array of at least two heating elements. In embodiments of any of the above the one or more heating elements of the array are in contact with the sheet of aerosol generating material.

In embodiments of any of the above the one or more heating elements of the array are arranged in the form of a layer.

In embodiments of any of the above each of the one or more heating elements comprise a track of electrically conductive material providing an electrically conductive path for resistive heating of at least a portion of the aerosol generating material In embodiments of any of the above each article electrical contact of the article comprises an exposed region of a heating element which is accessible to a respective one of the plurality of connector electrical contacts.

In embodiments of any of the above each heating element extends between a pair of article electrical contacts.

In embodiments of any of the above multiple heating elements of the plurality of heating elements extend from a common article electrical contact. In an embodiment of any of the above, an exterior of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width, wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and wherein the width is greater than the depth. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is in the form of an aerosol generating layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the heating arrangement and aerosol generating material form an aerosol generator. Other features, e.g. the article electrical contacts, may also be part of the aerosol generator. In an embodiment, the heating arrangement comprises a resistive heating layer. The resistive heating layer may define the one or more heating elements.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generator comprises a support configured to support the resistive heating layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the support comprises a support layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the support is electrically insulative.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the support comprises at least one of paper and card.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is in direct contact with the resistive heating layer. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer is in direct contact with the resistive heating layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is in indirect contact with the resistive heating layer. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer is in indirect contact with the resistive heating layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the resistive heating layer and the support layer define a substrate. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generator comprises a laminate comprising the resistive heating layer and the support layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the laminate comprises the aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the laminate comprises the aerosol generating layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the support layer comprises a card layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the first type of electrical contact is configured to electrically connect with a device electrical connector and the second type of electrical contact is configured to electrically connect with the device electrical connector.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the support defines an exposed contact area of the first type of electrical contact.

In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the exposed contact area is a first exposed contact area, and the support defines a second exposed contact area of the second type of electrical contact.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is a continuous aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer is a continuous aerosol generating layer. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material is a discontinuous aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer is a discontinuous aerosol generating layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating material comprises a plurality of discrete aerosol generating portions. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer comprises a plurality of discrete aerosol generating portions.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the resistive heating element is one of a plurality of resistive heating elements.

In an embodiment of any of the above, one of the discrete aerosol generating portions is associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of resistive heating elements. In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generating layer comprises at least one of dots, strips and patches.

In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the resistive heating element is a first heating element and the resistive heating layer forms a second resistive heating element, each resistive heating element providing an electrically conductive path for resistive heating of a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol at the respective portion of the aerosol generating material. In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the resistive heating element is a first heating element and the resistive heating layer forms a second resistive heating element, each resistive heating element providing an electrically conductive path for resistive heating of a portion of the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol at the respective portion of the aerosol generating layer.

In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the resistive heating layer forms an array of resistive heating elements comprising at least the first resistive heating element and the second resistive heating element.

In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein each of the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are configured to enable an electric current to be individually provided to each of the resistive heating elements.

In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the aerosol generating layer comprises a film or gel layer comprising the aerosol generating material.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generator comprises a plurality of the first type of electrical contact, wherein each of the heating elements comprises a separate electrical contact of the first type.

In an embodiment of any of the above, the aerosol generator comprises a plurality of the second type of electrical contacts, wherein each of the resistive heating elements comprises a separate second type of electrical contact.

In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the aerosol generator comprises a single second type of electrical contact. In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the single second type of electrical contact is shared between each of the resistive heating elements.

In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the resistive heating element is formed by at least one of: cutting said resistive heating layer; chemically etching said resistive heating layer; forming or pressing the resistive heating layer in the substrate; and printing said resistive heating layer. In an embodiment of any of the above, wherein the resistive heating layer is in the form of a foil. According to another aspect there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device according to any of the aspects or embodiments set out above; and an article according to any of the aspects or embodiments set out above.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Various embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol provision system;

Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an article comprising aerosol generating material of the aerosol provision system of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a first side of an aerosol generator of the article of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of part of a second side of the aerosol generator of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of an aerosol provision system such as the system shown in Figure 1;

Figure 6 is a schematic partially exploded perspective view of the article of Figure 2, with an aerosol generator shown inverted from an assembled orientation and in a spaced relationship with other components;

Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another aerosol generator such as the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3;

Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of a heating element of the aerosol generator of Figure 3;

Figure 9 is a schematic plan view of a resistive heating layer of the aerosol generator of Figure 3 with a plurality of heating elements;

Figure 10 is a flow chart showing a method of forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator of Figure 3; Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol generator being formed; Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view of a resistive heating layer of an aerosol generator being formed;

Figure 13 is a flow chart showing a method of forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator of Figure 3; Figure 14 is a flow chart showing a method of forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator of Figure 3;

Figure 15 is a flow chart showing a method of forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator of Figure 3;

Figure 16 is a schematic perspective view of a resistive heating layer of an aerosol generator being formed;

Figure 17 is a schematic plan view of a heating element of an aerosol generator; Figure 18 is a schematic plan view of a heating element of an aerosol generator; Figure 19 is a schematic perspective view of part of an aerosol generator of the article of Figure 2; Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view of a device connector of an aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of Figure 1;

Figure 21 is a schematic side view of the aerosol generating system of Figure 1 ;

Figure 22 is a flow chart showing a method of forming an aerosol generator, such as the aerosol generator of Figure 3; Figures 23 to 25 show an aerosol generator being formed;

Figures 26, 27, and 28 show a schematic view of an aerosol provision device and an article being inserted into the aerosol provision device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 29 shows a schematic view of an aerosol provision device and an article for being received by the aerosol provision device, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

As used herein, the term “delivery mechanism” is intended to encompass systems that deliver a substance to a user, and includes: non-combustible aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosolisable material without combusting the aerosolisable material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosolisable materials; and articles comprising aerosolisable material and configured to be used in one of these non-combustible aerosol provision systems. According to the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user. In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

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

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

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

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

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

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source.

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

As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” (which is sometimes referred to herein as an aerosolisable material) is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or semi-solid (such as a gel) which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.

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

The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be in the form of an aerosol- generating film. The aerosol-generating film may comprise a binder, such as a gelling agent, and an aerosol former. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and/or filler may also be present. The aerosol-generating film may be substantially free from botanical material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco free. The aerosol-generating film may have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness may be in the range of about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm. The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may comprise or be a continuous sheet of material.

The aerosol-generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosolgenerating film may comprise one or more discrete portions or regions of aerosol- generating material, such as dots, stripes or lines, which may be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

In embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a plurality of aerosolgenerating films. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating film comprises a plurality of aerosol-generating film regions. Such plurality of aerosol-generating films and/or plurality of aerosol-generating film regions may have different properties, for example at least one of different compositions, thicknesses, density, active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.

The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol-former and one or more other components, such as one or more substances to be delivered, to form a slurry and then heating the slurry to volatilise at least some of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film.

The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt% or 90 wt% of the solvent. The aerosol-generating material may be an “amorphous solid”. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid is a “monolithic solid”. The aerosol-generating material may be non-fibrous or fibrous. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be a dried gel. The aerosol-generating material may be a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments the retained fluid may be water (such as water absorbed from the surroundings of the aerosolgenerating material) or the retained fluid may be solvent (such as when the aerosolgenerating material is formed from a slurry). In some embodiments, the solvent may be water.

The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerine, 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.

The material may be present on or in a support, to form a substrate. The support may, for example, be or comprise paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. An aerosol provision device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An “article” in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilise the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol provision device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales.

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

A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosolgenerating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosolgenerating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may comprise a conductor which can be heated by the passage of an electrical current through the conductor. Non-combustible aerosol provision systems may comprise a modular assembly including both a reusable aerosol provision device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may, for example, comprise an electric power source, such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations the aerosol generating article may comprise partially, or entirely, the aerosol generating component. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an aerosol provision system 100. The aerosol provision system 100 comprises an aerosol provision device 200 and an article 300 comprising aerosol generating material 302 (refer to Figure 3). The article 300 is shown in Figure 2 removed from the aerosol provision device 200. An aerosol generator 304 of the article 300 is shown in Figure 3 with a perspective view of a first side 306, with a perspective view of part of a second side 307 shown in Figure 4.

The article 300 comprises the aerosol generator 304. The aerosol generator 304 is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material 302 upon operation of the aerosol provision system 100, as will be describe in detail below.

The aerosol provision system 100 may be elongate, extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol provision system 100 has a proximal end 102, which will be closest to the user (e.g. the user’s mouth) when in use by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol provision system 100, and a distal end 104 which will be furthest from the user when in use.

The proximal end may also be referred to as the “mouth end”. The aerosol provision system 100 accordingly defines a proximal direction, which is directed towards the user when in use. Further, the aerosol provision system 100 likewise defines a distal direction, which is directed away from the user when in use. The terms ‘proximal’ and ‘distal’ as applied to features of the system 100 will be described by reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to each other in a proximal-distal direction along a longitudinal axis.

The article 300 is received by the aerosol provision device 200. The configuration of the article 300 and the aerosol provision device 200 may vary. In the present embodiment, the aerosol provision device 200 comprises a device body 202. The device has a housing 204 enclosing components of the device 200. An article receiving portion 206 (sometimes referred to as a device chamber 206), as shown in Figure 5, is configured to receive a portion of the article 300. A proximal end 308 of the article protrudes from the device 200 when the article 300 is received in the device chamber 206. A receptacle 208 defines the chamber 206. The receptacle 208 comprises a receptacle base 210 and a receptacle peripheral wall 212. The configuration of the receptacle 208 may vary in dependence on the configuration of the article 300.

One or more user-operable control elements 224, such as a button or switch, which can be used to operate the aerosol provision system 100 may be provided on the aerosol provision device 200. For example, a user may activate the system 100 by pressing the control element 224. The one or more user-operable control elements may be omitted. In embodiments, the aerosol provision system 100 is operated by another user action, for example puff activated by a user drawing air through the system.

The aerosol provision device 200 comprises an opening 214 at the proximal end, leading into the device chamber 206. The opening 214 is provided in one end, through which the article 300 can be inserted. In embodiments, the article 300 may be fully or partially inserted into the device 200. The configuration of the device 200 may vary, for example the opening may be in a longitudinal side wall of the device 200, and/or may be closed by another feature of the device 200 during use. In the present configuration, the article 300 defines a mouthpiece 310 at the proximal end 308. In other embodiments, the device 200 defines the mouthpiece. The user places their mouth over the mouthpiece during use.

The device 200 defines the longitudinal axis along which an article 300 may extend when inserted into the device 200. The opening 214 is aligned on the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be an axis along which the article 300 is inserted into the device 200. The longitudinal axis may be considered to be a receiving axis of the device 200. The article 300 may similarly have a longitudinal axis along which it is inserted into the device and this axis may be considered to be an insertion axis.

The aerosol provision device 200 comprises a power source 220. The power source 220 may be a battery, for example a rechargeable battery. The device 200 also comprises a control circuit 222, acting as a controller, comprising a processor and a memory.

As discussed in detail below, a heating system 110 is configured to heat the aerosol generating material 302 of an article 300. The article 300 in embodiments is a consumable, and is interchangeable with other articles 300. The heating system 110 comprises the aerosol generator 304. The heating system 110 comprises other components of the aerosol provision system 100 including components of the article 300 and the aerosol provision device 200, for example the power source 220 and the control circuit 222. The aerosol generator 304 forms part of the article 300. The aerosol generator 304 comprises a heating arrangement 312 configured to heat aerosol generating material 302, for example at least one of a film and a gel to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating material may be referred to as aerosolisable material. The heating arrangement 312 is a resistive heating arrangement comprising one or more heating elements. The or each heating element in embodiments is a resistive heating element, as described in detail below. In such arrangements the heating system 110 comprises a resistive heating generator including components to heat the heating arrangement 312 via a resistive heating process. In this case, an electrical current is directly applied to a resistive heating element, and the resulting flow of current in the heating element, acting as a heating component, causes the heating element to be heated by Joule heating. The resistive heating element comprises resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable electrical current passes through it, and the heating arrangement 312 comprises electrical contacts for supplying electrical current to the resistive material. The provision of a resistive heating arrangement 312 allows for a compact arrangement. Resistive heating provides an efficient configuration.

In the use of the aerosol provision system 100, air is drawn into an air inlet 314 of the article 300, as indicated by arrow 316. The air inlet 314 is in a distal end of the article 300. In embodiments, the air inlet 314 may have a different configuration, for example in the side. The air flow to the air inlet 314 of the article 300 may be defined, for example by at least one of an air path through the device 200, an air path external to the device 200, and an air path between the device 200 and the article 300. An aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 304 exits the device at an aerosol outlet 318, as indicated by arrow 319. In embodiments the aerosol outlet 318 is in the mouthpiece of the article 300, such that the aerosol is drawn directly from the article 300 into the mouth of a user of the system 100.

In some example embodiments, the aerosol provision system comprises two main components, namely a control section forming a reusable part and a consumable section forming a replaceable or disposable part which may be referred to as a replaceable or disposable article or cartridge. As described herein, the aerosol provision device 200 forms a control section and the article 300 forms the consumable section. In the use of the aerosol generating system, the control section and the consumable part may be releasably connected at an interface. The consumable part may be removable and replaceable, for example when the consumable part is used, with the control section being re-used with a different consumable part. The aerosol provision system 100 as shown is provided by way of example only and is highly schematic. Different aerosol generating devices and other devices may be used in example implementations of the principles described here. For example, in some example embodiments, air is drawn into an air inlet in the control section, passes through the interface, and exits the consumable part.

As shown schematically in Figure 5, and described in detail below, the article 300 has an article electrical contact configuration 320. The electrical contact configuration 320 in embodiments is formed by the aerosol generator 304. The electrical contact configuration 320 comprises heater electrical contacts 322. The heater electrical contacts 322 may also be known as heater or article (electrical) contacts. The aerosol provision device 200 comprises an electrical connector 230, configured to supply power (or provide an electrical connection) to an article received by the article receiving portion, for example to supply power to the heating arrangement 321 for heating the aerosol generating material of the article 300. The electrical connector 230 comprises connector electrical contacts 232. The connector electrical contacts 232 may also be known as connector or device contacts. The article electrical contact configuration 320 is configured to electrically communicate with the device electrical connector 230.

The configuration of the article 300 may vary. The article 300 comprises a body 324. The body 324 is hollow. The body 324 defines a flow path 326 (refer to Figure 6) through the article 300. The flow path 326 extends between the air inlet 314 and the aerosol outlet 318. The flow path 326 is defined by an internal space in the article along which air and/or aerosol can flow. The flow path 326 is defined in the body 324. The or each aerosol generator 304 bounds the flow path 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the flow path 326. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed in the internal space. The internal space in embodiments comprises two or more chambers.

The air inlet 314 comprises an opening 315. The opening 315 is formed in the body 324. In embodiments, the opening is formed in another component of the article 300, for example the aerosol generator 304 or another wall feature. The aerosol outlet 318 comprises an outlet opening 317. The outlet opening 317 is formed in the body 324. In embodiments, the outlet opening 317 is formed in another component of the article 300, for example the aerosol generator 304 or another wall feature.

As shown in Figure 6, the article 300 comprises two aerosol generators 304 forming an aerosol generator arrangement. The number of aerosol generators 304 may differ. Each aerosol generator 304 comprises aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generating material 302 is exposed to the flow path 326. In embodiments the article 300 comprises a single aerosol generator 304. One of the aerosol generators 304 will be described in detail, with such detail being applicable to one or more further aerosol generators 304 in embodiments. The or each aerosol generator 304 and the body 324 are formed in a stacked configuration. In embodiments, other arrangements such as a tubular arrangement of the article are envisaged. In such tubular arrangements the aerosol generator 304 defines a tubular configuration. Tubular may include circular cross-sectional, an elliptical cross section and other polygonal shapes. In embodiments, as shown in the Figures, the article 300 has a flat configuration.

That is, wherein an exterior of the article has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width, wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and wherein the width is greater than the depth. Other configurations are envisaged. Figure 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of the article 300, with an aerosol generator 304 shown inverted from an assembled orientation and in a spaced relationship with other components. The article 300 comprises a first one of the aerosol generator 302, the body 324 and a second one of the aerosol generator. The body 324 spaces the first and second aerosol generators 304. The first and second aerosol generators 304 close the internal space defined by the body 324 along which air and/or aerosol can flow. The aerosol generating material 302 of the first and second aerosol generators 304 face each other and is exposed to the internal space. When assembled, the first and second aerosol generators 304 sandwich the body 324. In the embodiment of Figure 6 at least, the first and second aerosol generators 304 and the body have equal plan areas. In embodiments, one or more of the first and second aerosol generators 304 and the body 324 has a greater length and/or width. In embodiments, one of the first and second aerosol generators 304 is replaced by a blank panel. The body 324 comprises a body layer. The body may comprise a plurality of body layers. The body layers may be formed in a stack and arranged to define features of the article 300, such as the air inlet 314 and aerosol outlet 318.

A wrap encircles the article 300 and forms part of the article 300. The wrap may comprise a sheet. The wrap acts as a fixed sleeve. The or each aerosol generator 304 protrudes from the wrap at a distal end. Exposed electrical contact regions 323 of the heater contacts 322 are exposed at the distal end, for example refer to Figure 2. Other configurations are envisaged, for example at least one exposed electrical contact region 323 may additionally or alternatively be defined along a minor longitudinal face or edge of the article 300, and on a major face of the article defined by the aerosol generator 304.

The aerosol generator 304 is schematically shown in cross section in Figure 7. The aerosol generator 304 is an implementation of the aerosol generator 304 of the aerosol provision system 100 described above.

The aerosol generator 304 comprises an aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer is also known as an aerosolisable layer. More generally, the aerosol generator 304 can be said to comprise a heating arrangement (such as resistive heating layer 340), and aerosol generating material (such as the aerosol generating layer 330). The aerosol generating layer 330 comprises the aerosol generating material 302. The aerosol generator 304 comprises a resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating layer 340, in embodiments, is formed as an electrically conductive layer. The aerosol generating layer 330 is on the resistive heating layer 340. The aerosol generating layer 330 is in direct contact with the resistive heating layer 340. In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 is in indirect contact with the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating layer 340 may in embodiments comprise a coating. As described in detail below, the resistive heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistive heating elements 342, for example as shown in Figures 8 and 9. The or each resistive heating element 342 forms at least a portion of an electrically conductive path between a pair of the electrical contacts 322. The or each resistive heating element 342 provides the electrically conductive path for resistive heating of at least of portion of the aerosol generating material 302 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating material 302 is, in embodiments, in the form of a film or a gel. The resistive heating layer 340 is formed as an electrically conductive layer. This layer in embodiments takes the form of at least one of a metal layer, such as an aluminium layer, or a non-metallic material, such as graphene. The resistive heating layer 340 is in the form of a foil, for example an aluminium foil.

The aerosol generator 304 comprises a support 350. The support 350 in embodiments comprise a paper or card material. The support 350 provides structural support for the aerosol generator 304. The resistive heating layer 340 is on the support 350. The support 350 is configured as a support layer. As shown in Figure 7, in the aerosol generator 304, the resistive heating layer 340 is sandwiched between the support 350 and the aerosol generating layer 330. The support 350 is electrically insulative. The resistive heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define a substrate 352. The substrate 352 supports the aerosol generating layer 330.

The article 300 may comprise a laminate 354 comprising the resistive heating layer 340 and the support layer 350. In embodiments, the laminate 354 comprises the aerosol generating layer 330. The aerosol generating layer 330 may be formed as a contiguous configuration, or may be formed from discrete portions. The discrete portions may comprise one or more of dots, strips, spirals, or other shapes.

In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 comprises an aerosol- generating film. In embodiments, the aerosol generating layer 330 comprises a plurality of aerosol-generating films. In embodiments, the aerosol-generating film comprises a plurality of aerosol-generating film regions. Such plurality of aerosol-generating films and/or plurality of aerosol-generating film regions may have different properties, for example at least one of different compositions, thicknesses, density, active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.

One or more of the aerosol generating layer 330, resistive heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 may comprise a further layer. For example the support layer 350 may comprise a backing layer or an intermediate layer. The support layer 350 in embodiments is omitted.

Figure 8 shows one of the resistive heating elements 342. The resistive heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistive heating elements 342. In embodiments, the resistive heating layer 340 comprises a single resistive heating element 342.

The plurality of heating elements 342 may be formed in an array 344 as shown in Figure 9. Other configurations are envisaged.

The resistive heating element 342 comprises a resistive heating path. The resistive heating path is formed by an electrically conducting path. The resistive heating path is non-straight. The resistive heating path is convoluted. The configuration of the resistive heating path may vary. The electrical resistance of the heating element 342 may be dependent on the nature of the resistive heating path in the conductive layer, for example the length, width, thickness and arrangement of the path.

The resistive heating element 342 extends between a first type of electrical contact 360 and a second type of electrical contact 365. The first type of electrical contact 360 is configured to provide a positive contact and the second type of electrical contact 365 is configured to provide a negative contact. Electrical current flows between the first type of electrical contact 360 and the second type of electrical contact 365 through the path. The contact arrangement may be reversed. The first and second types of electrical contacts 360, 365 are heater electrical contacts 322. The first and second types of electrical contacts 360, 365 form at least part of the article electrical contact configuration 320.

The meandering or serpentine nature of the path of the resistive heating element 342 is such that the electrical resistance of the path is increased when compared with a straight path between the first and second type of electrical contacts.

The resistive heating layer 340 may comprise a first type of electrical track 361 extending from the resistive heating element 342. The first type of electrical track 361 comprises the first type of electrical contact 360. The electrical contact 360 of the first type is configured to electrically connect with the device electrical connector 230. The first type of electrical contact 360 comprises a first type of exposed contact region 362.

The first type of exposed contact region 362 is exposed on the article for direct connection with the device electrical connector 230.

The resistive heating layer 340 may comprise a second type of electrical track 366 extending from the resistive heating element 342. The second type of electrical track 366 comprises the second type of electrical contact 365. The electrical contact 365 of the second type is configured to electrically connect with the device electrical connector 230. The second type of electrical contact 365 comprises a second type of exposed contact region 367. The second type of exposed contact region 367 is exposed on the article 300 for direct connection with the device electrical connector 230. As discussed in detail below, the conducting path of the resistive heating element

342 in embodiments is created by defining at least one electrically insulative barrier 346 in the resistive heating layer 340. In embodiments, the electrically insulative barrier 346 is formed by cutting electrically insulative barrier restrictions (i.e. electrically insulating portions), such as gaps, channels or slots into a sheet formed of electrically conductive material to form the resistive heating layer 340. In embodiments, the resistive heating layer 340 is preformed to define the or each resistive heating element 342 and then applied to the support 350. In embodiments, the resistive heating layer 340 is applied to the support 350, and the or each resistive heating element 342 then defined in the resistive heating layer 340. The or each restive heating element 342 defining the resistive heating layer 340 may be a printed heater. The insulative barrier may be an air gap. In embodiments, the insulative barrier is a filled gap, for example filled with an insulative material. The barrier defines a barrier to electrical conduction across the barrier. The or each resistive heating element 342 defining the resistive heating layer 340 may be formed by a cutting action. Cutting may include die cutting. The resistive heating element may be formed by an action applied to the resistive heating layer only. In embodiments, the resistive heating element may be formed by an action applied to the resistive heating layer and the support layer, for example an action of cutting the resistive heating layer and the support layer.

The at least one electrically insulative barrier 346 defines the first and second types of electrical track 361 , 366.

In some embodiments, the tracks of the or each resistive heating element 342 have a width in the region of 0.5mm to 1mm (two example prototypes have widths of 0.93mm and 0.72mm respectively) and gaps between the tracks of less than about

0.25mm (the same two example prototypes have gaps of 0.2mm and 0.05mm respectively). The or each resistive heating element 342 may have overall dimensions of the order of 10mm x 10mm. Other dimensions are possible in other example embodiments. By forming the or each resistive heating element 342 of these dimensions from an aluminium foil of having a thickness of 0.006mm and an electrical resistivity of between 2 and 6 pOhmcm, the resistance of the path has been calculated to be of the order of 1 Ohm. In one example embodiment, the resistance was measured at between 0.83 and 1.31 Ohms.

As shown in Figure 9, the resistive heating layer 340 may be formed into a plurality of resistive heating elements, indicated generally by the reference numerals 342a, 342b, 242c, 342d and 342e. Each of the resistive heating elements 342a-342e extends from a respective one of the first type of electrical contact, indicated generally by the reference numerals 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d and 360e to a single second type of electrical contact 365. The number of electrical contacts may vary. As such, each resistive heating element 342a-342e extends between a discrete first type of electrical contact and a common second type of electrical contact.

Each of the resistive heating element 342a-342e provides an electrically conductive path for resistive heating of a portion of the aerosol generating material 302 to generate an aerosol at the respective portion of the aerosol generator 304. The separate first type 360a-360e of electrical contacts enable an electric current to be individually provided to each of the plurality of resistive heating elements 342a- 342e. The heating of different zones of the aerosol generating layer 330 can be controlled. For example, an aerosol generator may be provided with five aerosol generating zones. The resistive heating layer 340 allows each of those zones to be activated separately. Accordingly, for example, five puffs of aerosol may be generated from a single consumable incorporating a single aerosol generator 304, and ten puffs of aerosol may be generated from a single consumable incorporating two aerosol generators 304. In the example resistive heating layer 340, the plurality of first type of electrical contacts 360a-360e, for example a positive electrical connection, are provided and a single second type of electrical contact 365, for example a negative electrical connection is provided. This is not essential to all implementations. For example, multiple contacts of the second type could be provided. In embodiments each resistive heating element 342a-342e comprises a corresponding one of the first type of electrical contact 360 and a corresponding one of the second type of electrical contact 365.

In the shown embodiment of Figure 9 of the resistive heating layer 340, the first type of electrical contacts 360a-360e are arranged on a first edge 363 of the resistive heating layer 340 and the second type of electrical contact 365 is arranged on a second edge 368 of the resistive heating layer 340. This may allow for convenient connection of electrical power, but, of course, many other configurations are possible, some of which are discussed further below.

Figure 10 is a flow chart showing part of a method of forming an aerosol generator 304 or an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 400, in accordance with an example embodiment.

The method or algorithm 400 starts at operation 402, where a resistive heating layer is formed into one or more heating elements (e.g. a plurality of heating elements), wherein each resistive heating element extends from an electrical contact of a first type to an electrical contact of a second type. In use, the or each heating element may be used to provide an electrically conductive path for resistive heating of a portion of an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol. The formation of the or each resistive heating element may occur prior to or post application of the resistive heating layer on a support, where a support is present. The resistive heating layer may be adhered to the support, or mounted or formed on the support in a different configuration. At operation 404, the formed resistive heating layer is placed in contact with the aerosol generating layer, wherein said aerosol generating layer incorporates aerosol generating material. Algorithm 400 may be used to produce the aerosol generator 304 described above. Figure 11 shows the aerosol generator 304 being formed in accordance with an embodiment. The aerosol generating material 302 is formed on the resistive heating layer 340 by depositing aerosol generating material, for example by spraying, painting, dispensing or in some other way. The aerosol generating layer 330 is disposed on resistive heating layer 340 as indicated by the arrow 406, in an example implementation of the operation 404.

Figure 12 shows the resistive heating layer 340 being formed in accordance with an example embodiment. The resistive heating layer 340 is in the process of being cut using a laser cutter 408. The cutting of the resistive heating layer 340 can be used to form the paths of the heating elements described herein. The use of the laser cutter 408 (or some other cutting process) is not the only method by which the resistive heating layer 340 described herein may be generated. Some example methods are described below.

Figure 13 is a flow chart showing part of a method of forming an aerosol generator 304 or an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 410. The method or algorithm 410 starts at operation 412, where the resistive heating layer is provided. At operation 414, one or more of the resistive heating elements are formed in the resistive heating layer by chemically etching the resistive heating layer. The operations 412 and 414 are an example implementation of the operation 402 of the method 400 described above. The aerosol generating material is then disposed on the resistive heating layer, thereby implementing the operation 404 described above.

Figure 14 is a flow chart showing part of a method of forming an aerosol generator 304 or an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 418. The method or algorithm 418 starts at operation 420, where one or more heating elements are formed, at least in part, by printing a resistive heating layer. The operation 420 is therefore an example implementation of the operation 402 of the algorithm 400 described above. The aerosol generating material is then disposed on the resistive heating layer, thereby implementing the operation 404 described above.

The cutting, etching and printing methods described above are provided by way of example; other additional or alternative methods are also possible. For example, a so- called “hot foiling” approach could be used in which a heating element is made out of a resistive heating layer, and then assembled/bonded onto a support. Yet other techniques could be used, such as die cutting. Moreover, two or more technologies could be combined (e.g. electrical conductivity could be added to connection traces by adding more conductive material, such as additional foil, printed material, etc.). The skilled person will be aware of many further technologies, or combinations of technologies, that could be used in implementations of the principles described herein.

Figure 15 is a flow chart showing method of operation or an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 424, in accordance with an example embodiment. The method or algorithm 424 may, for example, be implemented using any of the aerosol generators described herein. The method or algorithm 424 is initiated when an instruction to activate heating is received in an instance of operation 426. In response to the instruction to activate heating, a determination is made (in operation 428) regarding whether a heating element is available. As discussed above, a plurality of heating elements may be provided. The operation 428 may involve determination which of the heating elements have been used and/or the corresponding available aerosol generating material used up.

If a heating element is available, the algorithm moves to operation 430, where an available heating element is used. As discussed above, heating elements may be individually controllable, for example by providing electrical power to individual heating elements. Once the operation 430 is complete, the algorithm terminates at operation 432. If, at operation 428, a determination is made that no heating elements are available, for example because all heating elements have been used, then the algorithm terminates at operation 432. This may mean that a consumable part being used to implement the algorithm 424 needs to be replaced.

Figure 16 shows the resistive heating layer 340 being formed in accordance with an embodiment. The resistive heating layer 340 is being cut using the laser cutter 408, although other methods could be used, such as chemical etching or printing, as discussed above. The cutting of the electrically conductive layer 340 forms the heating elements as described herein.

In the embodiment of Figure 16, the paths cut are linear paths, extending along the length of the electrically conductive layer 120.

Figure 17 shows another embodiment of the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating layer 340 may be formed using the laser cutter 408 described above, or some similar device or another method. The resistive heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of resistive heating elements 342, each resistive heating element 342 being a linear heating element comprising a conducting path extending along a length of the resistive heating layer 340. Each resistive heating element 342 extends from one of the first type of electrical contact 360, for example a positive electrical connection to one of the second type of electrical contact 365, for example a negative electrical contact. In such an embodiment, both types of electrical contact are provided at the same end of the resistive heating layer 340 and are provided next to each other. In such an arrangement that there is free from a common second type of electrical contact as is some other embodiments; instead, each heating element has separate first and second types of electrical contacts.

Figure 18 shows another embodiment of the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating layer 340 may be formed using the laser cutter 408 described above, or some similar device or another method. The resistive heating layer 340 comprises a plurality of heating elements 342, each heater element 342 being a linear heating element comprising a conducting path extending along a length of the resistive heating layer 340. Each resistive heating element 342 extends from one of the first type of electrical contact 360, for example a positive electrical connection to the second type of electrical contact 365, for example a negative electrical contact. In such an embodiment, the different types of electrical connection are provided at the opposite ends of the resistive heating layer 340 and a common second type of electrical contact is provided. Although a linear path is provided, an increase in the electrical resistance may be provided by means of providing a crenelated path, acting as a convoluted path. Note that the paths of any other embodiments described herein could also be crenelated. Figure 19 shows the distal end of the article 300. As shown, the body 324 comprises a plurality of body layers 325. The body layers 325 are arranged in a stack of body layers 325. The body layers 325 form a laminate. The body layers 325 in embodiments are card layers. Other suitable materials may be used. The body layers 325 are configured to define features of the article 300. At least one body layer in embodiments comprises a gap defining the air inlet 315. The gap defines the opening 314.

The aerosol generator 304 comprises the resistive heating layer 340. The resistive heating layer 340 comprises the resistive heating elements 342, the first type of electrical contacts 360, for example providing positive electrical connections to each of a plurality of heating elements 342 and a single second type of electrical contact 365, for example providing a common negative electrical connection to the plurality of heating elements 342. The first and second types of electrical contacts 360, 365, namely the heater contacts 322, together form at least part of the article electrical contact configuration 320 of the aerosol generator 304. The resistive heating elements 342 are on an inner side of the resistive heating layer 340. The inner side defines the first side 306 of the aerosol generator 304 as shown in Figure 3. The heater contacts 322 are on the second side 307 of the resistive heating layer 340. The second side 307 defines an outer side of the aerosol generator 304. The heater contacts 322 are exposed so that they are able to be brought into contact with the device electrical connector 230. The heater contacts 322 are on an opposing side of the resistive heating layer 340 to the resistive heating elements 342. Other configurations are envisaged.

The support layer 350 is between an inner portion of the resistive heating layer 340 and an outer portion of the resistive heating layer 340. A fold 370 is formed in the resistive heating layer 340. The fold 370 defines the heater contacts 322. The fold 370 as shown in Figures 2 to 4 and 19 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 304. The fold 370 defines a flap 372. The heater contacts 322 are on the flap 372. The flap defines a contact panel. The remaining part of the blank defines a main panel. In embodiments with the support layer 350, the support layer 350 in embodiments is folded. The substrate 352 is folded at the fold 370. In embodiments, the support layer 350 ends at the fold. In embodiments, the fold 370 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 304.

The folded portion of resistive heating layer 340 is affixed in the folded position. This folded portion in embodiments is adhered, for example by bonding. Other fixing means are anticipated.

The fold 370 defines the first type of exposed contact region 362. The fold 370 defines the second type of exposed contact region 367. The electrical tracks 361, 366 electrically communicate across the fold 370. The heater contacts 322 of the first type of electrical track 361 and the second type of electrical track 366 are defined on the second side of the resistive heating layer 340. Portions of the first type of electrical track 361 and the second type of electrical track 366 extend on the first side of the resistive heating layer 340. In embodiments the resistive heating elements extend from the fold 370. Other configurations are anticipated. The device 200 comprises a plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 of the electrical connector 230. The configuration of the device connector 230 is dependent on the configuration of the heater contacts 322 of the aerosol generator 304. In embodiments, such as the aerosol generator as shown in Figure 19, the aerosol generator 300 comprises a plurality of heater contacts 322 including a plurality of the first type of heater contact 360 and one of the second type of heater contact 365. The article 300 comprises another set of heater contacts 322 on the opposing side of the article 300 corresponding to the second aerosol generator 304.

Figure 20 shows a device connector 230 of the aerosol provision device 200 used in some embodiments. The connector 230 has separate connector electrical contacts 232 for connection with the heater contacts 322.

Figure 21 schematically shows the aerosol provision system 100. The system 100 comprises the article 300 and aerosol provision device 200, both shown in block diagram. The device 200 comprises first and second connector electrical contacts 230a and 230b.

The connectors 230a and 230b enable the aerosol provision device 200 to provide regulated or controlled electrical voltages and/or currents to the various first and second type of heater contacts 360, 365 of the aerosol generator 304 when the article 300 is inserted into the aerosol provision device 200. The aerosol provision device 200 may comprise a connector arrangement configured to provide electrical power to the connector electrical contacts 230a, 230b. The aerosol provision device 200 may, for example, operate the method as described above.

Figure 22 is a flow chart showing a method of forming an aerosol generator 304 or an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 440, in accordance with an example embodiment.

The method or algorithm 440 starts at operation 442, where a resistive heating layer is formed into at least one resistive heating element, the or each heating element providing an electrically conductive path for resistive heating of at least a portion of an aerosolisable material to generate an aerosol. Example heating elements that may be formed in the operation 442 are described elsewhere in this document.

At operation 442, an aerosol generating material is applied and/or formed on the resistive heating layer. The operations 442 and 444 of the method or algorithm 440 are similar to (and may be identical to) the operations 402 and 404 of the method or algorithm 400 described above.

In operation 446 at least one first type of heater electrical contact is provided on the resistive heating layer. The method of formation may be any of the methods described above. In operation 448 at least one second type of heater electrical contact is provided on the resistive heating layer. The method of formation may be any of the methods described above.

In embodiments, the first and second types of heater electrical contact are formed along or proximal a single edge of the resistive heating layer. In embodiments, the first and second types of heater electrical contact are formed along or proximal to different edges of the resistive heating layer.

In embodiments, the first types of heater electrical contact (e.g. positive connection(s)) are provided along a first edge of the resistive heating layer. In embodiments, the heater second types of electrical contact (e.g. negative electrical connection(s)) are provided along a second edge of the resistive heating layer. The operations 446 and 448 could be performed in a different order, or at the same time. Moreover, the operations 446 and 448 could be performed together with the operation 442. At operation 450, the resistive heating layer is folded. In embodiments, the support layer is folded together with the resistive heating layer. In embodiments, the resistive heating layer is folded such that heater electrical contacts of the first and second type are provided adjacent to one another, as discussed in detail below.

Figures 23 to 25 show an embodiment of the aerosol generator 304 being formed in accordance with the algorithm 440.

Figure 23 shows another embodiment of the aerosol generator 304 being formed. The resistive heating layer 340 is being cut using a laser cutter 408. The prefolded configuration defines a blank for forming the aerosol generator 304. The blank in embodiments defines fold lines along which folds are made during formation of the aerosol generator. The aerosol generator 304 blank comprises the resistive heating layer 340 and the support layer 350. The resistive heating layer 340 and the support layer 350 define panels defined by the fold lines. As shown in Figure 23, the resistive heating layer 340 is formed into a plurality of heating elements 192, although the number may differ and may be one. A plurality of the first type of the heater electrical contact 360 (e.g. positive electrical contact) are provided along the first edge of the electrically conductive layer (one heater electrical contact for each heating element is shown). A single second type of heater electrical contact 365 is provided along the second edge of the resistive heating layer 340. In embodiments the heater electrical contacts are spaced from the edges. As discussed above, each heating element of the plurality extends from a heater electrical contact of the first type to a heater electrical contact of the second type. The cutting of the resistive heating layer 340 by the laser cutter 408 forms the paths of the or each heating element 342. As discussed above, laser formation or some other cutting process is not the only method by which the resistive heating layer 340 described above may be generated. Some example alternative methods include chemical etching and printing. As indicated in Figure 24, the aerosol generating layer 200 is provided on the resistive heating layer 340. The blank is then folded, as indicated by the arrows in Figure 24. In this embodiment, the folds are formed parallel to a longitudinal direction of the aerosol generator 304. Two folds are formed. A first panel 375 is defined comprising the heating elements 342. A second panel 376 is formed comprising the plurality of the first type of the electrical contact 360. A third panel 377 is formed comprising the second type of electrical contact 365. The aerosol generating layer 330 is on the first panel 375. Figure 25 shows the folded aerosol generator 304.

When inserting the article 300 into the article receiving portion of the device 200, it is important to ensure that article 300 is positioned correctly such that the article electrical contacts, such as article electrical contacts 322, 360, 365 (referred to interchangeably as heater electrical contacts), are positioned to engage with corresponding connector electrical contacts of the device 200, such as connector electrical contacts 232, 230a, 230b. For example, it may be desired for each of the article electrical contacts to contact a corresponding connector electrical contact, in a consistent and repeatable manner. This can be difficult to achieve, particularly given that the article 300 may be repeatedly inserted into the receiving portion of the device 200, and various different articles may be used after each is exhausted in turn. In particular, this may not be straightforward to achieve in arrangements where the article comprises a higher number of article electrical contacts, for example more than two article electrical contacts, as the size, spacing and arrangement of the article electrical contacts may increasingly make alignment more difficult.

In order to address this issue, the Applicant has appreciated a magnetic interaction can be used to repeatably bring the article 300 into the correct engagement with the receiving portion 206 and electrical connector 230 of the device 200, without requiring the use of moving mechanical parts. An embodiment of an aerosol provision system 100 utilising magnetic alignment is shown in Figure 26 which shows a schematic representation of an aerosol provision device 200 and an article 300. As shown in Figure 26, the article 300 comprises one or more article magnetic components 390, and the aerosol provision device 200 comprises one or more device magnetic components 290 which are configured to apply a force to an article 300, when the article 300 is being inserted into the article receiving portion 206, that forces the article 300 into a position in which the plurality of connector electrical contacts 232, of an electrical connector 230, engage a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts 322 of the article. As depicted in Figure 26, the plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 comprise a first connector electrical contact 233, a second connector electrical contact 234, and a third connector electrical contact 235, as well as further connector electrical contacts which do not have individual reference numerals. Likewise, the plurality of article electrical contacts comprises a first article electrical contact 323, a second article electrical contact 324, and a third article electrical contact 235, as well as further article electrical contacts which do not have individual reference numerals. The one or more article and device magnetic components 290, 390 could apply a force which draws the article 300 into the article receiving portion 206 when the article 300 comes into proximity to the aerosol provision device 200. In an arrangement where the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206 of the device 200 in a distal direction, such as that shown in Figure 26, the one or more device magnetic components 290 may apply a force to the article 300, for example by applying a force to one or more article magnetic components 390, which forces the article 300 in the distal direction such that the article electrical contacts 320 are driven into the position to engage with (e.g. contact) the respective connector electrical contacts 232. This can ensure that the respective article electrical contacts 322 and the electrical connector 230 of the aerosol provision device 200 are engaged correctly, without requiring the application of extensive force by a user. This can also ensure that these electrical contacts 232, 322 remain engaged to one another during use, and while the article 300 is received in the article receiving portion 206, despite any movement of the aerosol provision device 200 by the user. It is noted, that although the above arrangement is discussed in the context of an approach in which the plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 comprise first, second, and third connector electrical contacts 233, 234, 235, and the plurality of article electrical contacts 322 comprise first, second, and third article electrical contacts 323, 324, 325, these techniques may also be applied in approaches in which the plurality of connector electrical contacts 232 comprise first and second connector electrical contacts 233, 234, and the plurality of article electrical contacts 322 comprise first and second, article electrical contacts 323, 324, and the third connector electrical contact 235 and third article electrical contact 325 are not provided. Similarly, the techniques discussed may also be applied to arrangements comprising at least 5, e.g. at least 7, e.g. at least 10, e.g. at least 15 connector electrical contacts and a corresponding at least 5, e.g. at least 7, e.g. at least 10, e.g. at least 15 article electrical contacts, in which the (relatively large number of) respective article electrical contacts may be caused align with their respective corresponding connector electrical contacts through the magnetic interaction between the device and the article.

In particular, as shown in Figure 27, as the article 300 is inserted into the article receiving portion 206, the article 300 may end up in a position in which the connector electrical contacts 232 are not correctly aligned with the article electrical contacts 322 to make the requisite engagements necessary to selectively supply power to each of the (possibly high number of) different heating elements of the aerosol generator of the article 300. In such positions, some of the connector electrical contacts 232 may engage multiple of the article electrical contacts 322, which could lead to an electrical short circuit, or an inability to effectively supply power via a number of the connector electrical contacts 232 to the article 300. However, the one or more device magnetic components 290 may advantageously apply a force to the one or more article magnetic components 390, which drives the article 300 from the position depicted in Figure 27, to the position depicted in Figure 28, in which the connector electrical contacts 232 engage the article electrical contacts 322 in the correct configuration. Particularly in arrangements in which the article 300 has such a high number of article electrical contacts 322, such as including the first article electrical contact 323, the second article electrical contact 324, and the third article electrical contact 325, it can be difficult for a user to consistently orient the article 300 in the correct position, with undesirable consequences, and the techniques discussed herein can enable the correct position to be achieved repeatedly and without the requirement of moving parts. One or more of the device magnetic components 290 may be arranged distal to the article receiving portion 206, i.e. displaced in a distal direction from the article receiving portion 206. This may enable a force to be applied by the one or more device magnetic components 290 on the article 300 to drive the article 300 in the distal direction, and to the point of complete insertion in the article receiving portion 206.

Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the device magnetic components 290 may be arranged at a location longitudinally overlapping the article receiving portion 206. In other words, these one or more device magnetic components 290 are arranged adjacent the article receiving portion 206, and are not displaced from the article receiving portion 206 along the longitudinal axis. This may enable a force to be applied by the device magnetic components 290 on the article 300 to drive the article 300 in a direction at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol provision device 200, e.g. at an angle to the proximal or distal direction. This force could assist with driving one or more article electrical contacts 322 which are arranged along the sides of the article 300 (i.e. not arranged on the longitudinal ends of the article) into engagement with corresponding connector electrical contacts 232. In embodiments where the article is flexible, this can ensure that each of the plurality of article electrical contacts 322, which may be distributed along the length of the article 300, e.g. on one or more sides of the article 300, as depicted in Figures 28, 29, and 30, may be continually forced into engagement with a corresponding connector electrical contact 232.

In embodiments, the one or more article magnetic components 390 and/or the one or more device magnetic components 290 can comprise one or more magnets comprising magnetic material, for example one or more permanent magnets. This may have the advantage that the magnetic components can generate a consistent magnetic field without the supply of power from a power source such as the battery of the device. The magnetic material may comprise one or more of iron, cobalt, nickel, or a rare earth metal. For example, the magnetic material may comprise a ferrite material, a samariumcobalt alloy, or a neodymium-iron-boron alloy.

In embodiments, the one or more article magnetic components 390 and/or the one or more device magnetic components 290 can comprise one or more electromagnets configured to generate a magnetic field when a current is passed therethrough. This may have the advantage that they can be controlled by a controller, for example the controller of the device, such as control circuit 220. The controller may be configured to activate one or more electromagnets of the aerosol provision device 200 responsive to the insertion of the article being detected by an article detection sensor, or additionally or alternatively responsive to a predetermined manipulation of one or more control elements of the aerosol provision device 200 by a user. The one or more electromagnets may comprise a coil, which may be wound around a magnetic core comprising a magnetisable material such as a ferromagnetic material. In embodiments, the one or more device magnetic components 290 comprise one or more permanent magnets and/or one or more electromagnets, while the one or more article magnetic components 390 comprise one or more magnetic components comprising a magnetisable material, which experience a force from the magnetic field of the one or more device magnetic components, but which may not necessarily generate a magnetic field themselves. Likewise, the one or more article magnetic components 390 may comprise one or more permanent magnets and/or one or more electromagnets, while the one or more device magnetic components 290 comprise one or more magnetic components comprising a magnetisable material. It will be appreciated that such a combination of components may nonetheless facilitate alignment such that the connector electrical contacts 232 engage with corresponding ones of the article electrical contacts.

As shown in Figure 29, in some embodiments, one or more of the connector electrical contacts 232 may comprise the one or more device magnetic components 290. Likewise, one or more of the article electrical contacts 322 may comprise the one or more article magnetic components 390. This can ensure that a force is applied directly between the one or more connector electrical contacts 232 and the one or more article electrical contacts 322 which drives them into engagement. For example, one of the connector electrical contacts 232 and/or one of the article electrical contacts 322 may be both magnetic and electrically conductive. In other arrangements, a device magnetic component 290 may be arranged within a connector electrical contact 232, and likewise an article magnetic component 390 may be arranged within an article electrical contact 322.

In arrangements such as that shown in Figure 6, in which the article 300 comprises a plurality of resistive heating elements, indicated generally by the reference numerals 342a, 342b, 242c, 342d and 342e (each of which extends from a respective one of the first type of article electrical contact, indicated generally by the reference numerals 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d and 360e to a single second type of article electrical contact 365), it is important to ensure that all of the significant number of article electrical contacts are properly engaged with a corresponding significant number of connector electrical contacts. For example, the article may comprise 3 or more article electrical contacts, including a first article electrical contact, a second article electrical contact, and a third article electrical contact. The article may comprise further article electrical contacts, for example 4 or more, 5 or more, 8 or more, 10 or more, or 15 or more.

Reliable alignment between each of the connector electrical contacts 232 and the corresponding ones of the article electrical contacts 322 may help to ensure that the system 100 is able to function as intended. For example, it may be important for the first connector electrical contact 232 to engage with the first article electrical contact 323 such that an electrical component (e.g. a heating element) connected to the first article electrical contact 323 is supplied with power when the first article electrical contact 323 is supplied with power. As such, unintended operation of other electrical components (e.g. heating elements) within the article 300 may be avoided. In contrast, misalignment between the connector electrical contacts 232 and article electrical contacts 323 may cause no electrical connections to be made, or inappropriate electrical connections to be made, e.g. where the first connector electrical contact 233 engages the third article electrical contact 325. Such misalignment may result in improper use of, and/or damage to, the system 100.

It will be appreciated that one or more of the article electrical contacts 322 need not necessarily be electrically connected to a heating element, and in other embodiments one or more of the article electrical contacts 322 may be connected to another electrical component of the article 300. In arrangements with such a high quantity of article electrical contacts 322, such as that shown in Figures 26 to 29, in which the article 300 comprises first, second, and third article electrical contacts (or more), and/or the device 200 comprises first, second, and third connector electrical contacts (or more), there may be less freedom in the positions in which each article electrical contact 322 engages a connector electrical contact 232. As a result, precise and repeatable retention of the article 300 by the article receiving portion 206 can be particularly important, and the Applicant has recognised that the use of the one or more article magnetic components 390 and the one or more device magnetic components 290 provide a particularly applicable solution which can apply the forces to the article 300 necessary to retain the article electrical contacts 322 engaged with the device electrical contacts 232. In such arrangements, the use of a plurality of device magnetic components 290 and a plurality of article magnetic components 390 may advantageously enable the application of forces to the article 300 in different directions, particularly when arranged at different longitudinal positions with regard to the article receiving portion 206 as discussed above, which can drive the article electrical contacts 322 distributed along the article 300, e.g. distributed along the article receiving portion 206, into engagement with the connector electrical contacts 232.

In the embodiments discussed above, the heating arrangement which comprises the one or more heating elements, is part of the article, e.g. the aerosol generator thereof.

In some embodiments of the different arrangements of aerosol generators and articles described above the aerosol generating material is formed in a configuration other than as an aerosol generating layer. The aerosol generating material in embodiments is in the form of an aerosol generating segment. The aerosol generating segment generally comprises a solid material. Such a solid material may be shredded tobacco. The aerosol generating material, arranged as an aerosol generating segment for example, may comprise a plurality of individual pieces of aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material may be individual pieces of tobacco material. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises a plurality of strips, beads or pellets. In embodiments the aerosol generating segment is a plug of material.

The aerosol generating segment in embodiments comprises a body of material. The aerosol generating material is a non-liquid. In such an embodiment, the body of material comprises a rod of aerosol generating material, for example a tobacco rod. For example, the body of material may comprise shredded tobacco material. The body of material may be formed into a rod. In some embodiments, the body of material comprises cut rag tobacco that is formed into a rod. The aerosol generating material may comprise tobacco material. The aerosol generating material may comprise extruded tobacco. The aerosol generating material may comprise reconstituted tobacco.

The aerosol generating material, formed as a solid material, may comprise nicotine. The aerosol generating material may comprise, consist of, or essentially consist of, tobacco. In embodiments, the aerosol generating material is free from tobacco.

In embodiments of any of the above, the heating of the article provides a relatively constant release of volatile compounds into an inhalable medium. In an embodiment of the above, the aerosol generating segment is a plug of material. The article may comprise a mouth end section. A tubular element may be located between the aerosol generating material and the mouth end section. The article may comprise a ventilation area in the mouth end section. The mouth end section may define a mouthpiece configured to be placed between a user’s lips. In embodiments of any of the above described articles, the or each resistive heating element is configured to heat substantially the entire aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating segment in embodiments is at least substantially cylindrical. In embodiments, the aerosol generating segment is at least partially wrapped by the resistive heating layer. In embodiments, the resistive heating element extends in the aerosol generating segment. The resistive heating element may extend around the aerosol generating segment. In embodiments, the resistive heating element encircles the aerosol generating segment. In some arrangements at least a portion of the flow path through the article is through the aerosol generating segment. The aerosol generating segment may define part of the air path. In embodiments, the first type of electrical contact and the second type of electrical contact are exposed from the aerosol generating segment.

The aerosol generating material may comprise tobacco material as described herein, which includes a tobacco component. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco component may contain paper reconstituted tobacco. The tobacco component may also contain leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and/or bandcast tobacco. The tobacco material may be provided in the form of cut rag tobacco. The cut rag tobacco can be formed from a mixture of forms of tobacco material, for instance a mixture of one or more of paper reconstituted tobacco, leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco and bandcast tobacco. In embodiments, the tobacco material comprises paper reconstituted tobacco or a mixture of paper reconstituted tobacco and leaf tobacco. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco material may contain a filler component. The filler component is generally a non-tobacco component, that is, a component that does not include ingredients originating from tobacco. The filler component may be a non-tobacco fibre such as wood fibre or pulp or wheat fibre. The filler component may also be an inorganic material such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulphate, magnesium carbonate. The filler component may also be a non-tobacco cast material or a non- tobacco extruded material. The filler component may be present in an amount of 0 to 20% by weight of the tobacco material, or in an amount of from 1 to 10% by weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the filler component is absent. In the tobacco material described herein, the tobacco material contains an aerosol-former material. In this context, an "aerosol-former material" is an agent that promotes the generation of an aerosol. An aerosol-former material may promote the generation of an aerosol by promoting an initial vaporisation and/ or the condensation of a gas to an inhalable solid and/ or liquid aerosol. In some embodiments, an aerosol-former material may improve the delivery of flavour from the aerosol generating material. In general, any suitable aerosol-former material or agents may be included in the aerosol generating material of the invention, including those described herein. Paper reconstituted tobacco refers to tobacco material formed by a process in which tobacco feedstock is extracted with a solvent to afford an extract of solubles and a residue comprising fibrous material, and then the extract (usually after concentration, and optionally after further processing) is recombined with fibrous material from the residue (usually after refining of the fibrous material, and optionally with the addition of a portion of non-tobacco fibres) by deposition of the extract onto the fibrous material. The process of recombination resembles the process for making paper.

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

Claims

1. An aerosol provision device comprising: an article receiving portion configured to receive, in use, an article comprising an aerosol generating material and a heating arrangement comprising one or more heating elements for heating the aerosol generating material; and an electrical connector for supplying power to an article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article, wherein one or more of the connector electrical contacts comprise one or more device magnetic components respectively, the one or more device magnetic components being configured to apply a force to an article, when the article is being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the plurality of connector electrical contacts engage a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article.

2. The aerosol provision device of claim 1, wherein the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more magnets.

3. The aerosol provision device of claim 2, wherein the one or more magnets comprise one or more permanent magnets.

4. The aerosol provision device of any preceding claim, wherein the one or more device magnetic components comprise a magnetic or magnetisable material

5. The aerosol provision device of any preceding claim, wherein the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more electromagnets.

6. The aerosol provision device of claim 5, wherein the one or more electromagnets comprise one or more coils and one or more magnetic cores, wherein each of the one or more coils is wrapped around a respective magnetic core of the one or more magnetic cores.

7. The aerosol provision device of claim 4, wherein the magnetic or magnetisable material comprises one or more of iron, cobalt, nickel, or a rare earth metal.

8. The aerosol provision device of claim 7, wherein the magnetic material comprises a samarium-cobalt alloy, or a neodymium-iron-boron alloy.

9. The aerosol provision device of any preceding claim, wherein the one or more device magnetic components comprises a plurality of device magnetic components.

10. The aerosol provision device of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol provision device is an elongate aerosol provision device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol provision device defines a distal end which is directed away from the user when in use.

11. The aerosol provision device of claim 10, wherein one or more of the one or more device magnetic components are positioned in the aerosol provision device to longitudinally overlap the article receiving portion.

12. The aerosol provision device of any preceding claim, wherein the electrical connector is arranged in the article receiving portion.

13. An article for an aerosol provision device, comprising: an aerosol generating material; a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements, and a plurality of article electrical contacts wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; and wherein one or more of the article electrical contacts comprise one or more article magnetic components, the one or more article magnetic components being configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol provision device configured to receive the article, and apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, that forces the article into a position in which the article electrical contacts engage corresponding connector electrical contacts of the aerosol provision device.

14. The article of claim 13, wherein the one or more article magnetic components comprise one or more magnets.

15. An aerosol provision system comprising: an article comprising: an aerosol generating material and a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements, and a plurality of article electrical contacts comprising at least a first and second article electrical contact, wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; and one or more article magnetic components; wherein the system further comprises an aerosol provision device, comprising: an article receiving portion configured to receive, in use, the article; an electrical connector for supplying power to the article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article, the plurality of connector electrical contacts comprising at least a first and second connector electrical contact; and one or more device magnetic components, configured to apply a force to the one or more article magnetic components, when being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the first and second article electrical contacts of the article engage the first and second connector electrical contacts of the electrical connector respectively.

16. The aerosol provision system of claim 15, wherein the plurality of article electrical contacts comprises a third article electrical contact and the plurality of connector electrical contacts comprises a third connector electrical contact, and wherein the one or more device magnetic components are configured to apply a force to the one or more article magnetic components, when being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the first, second, and third article electrical contacts of the article engage the first, second, and third connector electrical contacts of the electrical connector respectively.

17. The aerosol provision system of claim 15 or 16, wherein the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more magnets.

18. The aerosol provision system of any of claims 15 to 17, wherein the one or more device magnetic components comprise one or more electromagnets.

19. The aerosol provision system of any of claims 15 to 18, wherein the one or more device magnetic components comprises a plurality of device magnetic components.

20. The aerosol provision system of any of claims 15 to 19, wherein the aerosol provision device is an elongate aerosol provision device extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the aerosol provision device defines a distal end which is directed away from the user when in use.

21. The aerosol provision system of claim 20, wherein one or more of the one or more device magnetic components are positioned in the aerosol provision device distal to the article receiving portion, or wherein one or more of the one or more device magnetic components are positioned in the aerosol provision device to longitudinally overlap the article receiving portion.

22. An aerosol provision device comprising: an article receiving portion configured to receive, in use, an article comprising an aerosol generating material and a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements and a plurality of article electrical contacts comprising a first and second article electrical contact, wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of the article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; an electrical connector for supplying power to an article received by the article receiving portion, the electrical connector comprising a plurality of connector electrical contacts for engaging a corresponding plurality of article electrical contacts of the article, the plurality of connector electrical contacts comprising at least a first and second connector electrical contact; and one or more device magnetic components, configured to apply a force to one or more magnetic components of an article, when the article is being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the first and second connector electrical contacts engage corresponding first and second article electrical contacts of the article respectively.

23. The aerosol provision device of claim 22, wherein the electrical connector comprises a third connector electrical contact, wherein the plurality of article electrical contacts comprises a third article electrical contact, and wherein one or more device magnetic components are configured to apply a force to one or more of the magnetic components of an article, when the article is being inserted into the article receiving portion, that forces the article into a position in which the first, second, and third connector electrical contacts engage corresponding first, second, and third article electrical contacts of the article respectively.

24. An article for an aerosol provision device, comprising: an aerosol generating material; a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the heating arrangement comprises one or more heating elements, and a plurality of article electrical contacts comprising a first and second article electrical contact, wherein each heating element of the one or more heating elements extends between a pair of article electrical contacts of the plurality of article electrical contacts; and one or more article magnetic components, configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol provision device configured to receive the article, and apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, that forces the article into a position in which the first and second article electrical contacts of the article engage corresponding first and second connector electrical contacts of the aerosol provision device respectively.

25. The article of claim 24, wherein the plurality of article electrical contacts comprises a third article electrical contact, and wherein the one or more article magnetic components are configured to interact with one or more magnetic components of an aerosol provision device configured to receive the article, and apply a force to the one or more magnetic components of the article, that forces the article into a position in which the first, second, and third article electrical contacts of the article engage corresponding first, second, and third connector electrical contacts of the aerosol provision device respectively.