TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a smoking substitute system and particularly, although
not exclusively, to a smoking substitute system comprising a heated tobacco device.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The smoking of tobacco is generally considered to expose a smoker to potentially
harmful substances. It is generally thought that a significant amount of the potentially
harmful substances are generated through the heat caused by the burning and/or combustion
of the tobacco and the constituents of the burnt tobacco in the tobacco smoke itself.
[0003] Conventional combustible smoking articles, such as cigarettes, typically comprise
a cylindrical rod of tobacco comprising shreds of tobacco which is surrounded by a
wrapper, and usually also a cylindrical filter axially aligned in an abutting relationship
with the wrapped tobacco rod. The filter typically comprises a filtration material
which is circumscribed by a plug wrap. The wrapped tobacco rod and the filter are
joined together by a wrapped band of tipping paper that circumscribes the entire length
of the filter and an adjacent portion of the wrapped tobacco rod. A conventional cigarette
of this type is used by lighting the end opposite to the filter, and burning the tobacco
rod. The smoker receives mainstream smoke into their mouth by drawing on the mouth
end or filter end of the cigarette.
[0004] Combustion of organic material such as tobacco is known to produce tar and other
potentially harmful by-products. There have been proposed various smoking substitute
systems (or "substitute smoking systems") in order to avoid the smoking of tobacco.
[0005] Such smoking substitute systems can form part of nicotine replacement therapies aimed
at people who wish to stop smoking and overcome a dependence on nicotine.
[0006] Smoking substitute systems include electronic systems that permit a user to simulate
the act of smoking by producing an aerosol (also referred to as a "vapour") that is
drawn into the lungs through the mouth (inhaled) and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol
typically bears nicotine and/or flavourings without, or with fewer of, the odour and
health risks associated with traditional smoking.
[0007] In general, smoking substitute systems are intended to provide a substitute for the
rituals of smoking, whilst providing the user with a similar experience and satisfaction
to those experienced with traditional smoking and with combustible tobacco products.
Some smoking substitute systems use smoking substitute articles (also referred to
as a "consumables") that are designed to resemble a traditional cigarette and are
cylindrical in form with a mouthpiece at one end.
[0008] The popularity and use of smoking substitute systems has grown rapidly in the past
few years. Although originally marketed as an aid to assist habitual smokers wishing
to quit tobacco smoking, consumers are increasingly viewing smoking substitute systems
as desirable lifestyle accessories.
[0009] There are a number of different categories of smoking substitute systems, each utilising
a different smoking substitute approach.
[0010] One approach for a smoking substitute system is the so-called Heated Tobacco ("HT")
approach in which tobacco (rather than an "e-liquid") is heated or warmed to release
vapour. HT is also known as "heat not burn" ("HNB"). The tobacco may be leaf tobacco
or reconstituted tobacco. The vapour may contain nicotine and/or flavourings. In the
HT approach the intention is that the tobacco is heated but not burned, i.e. the tobacco
does not undergo combustion.
[0011] A typical HT smoking substitute system may include a device and a consumable. The
consumable may include the tobacco material. The device and consumable may be configured
to be physically coupled together. In use, heat may be imparted to the tobacco material
by a heating element of the device, wherein airflow through the tobacco material causes
components in the tobacco material to be released as vapour. A vapour may also be
formed from a carrier in the tobacco material (this carrier may for example include
propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine) and additionally volatile compounds released
from the tobacco. The released vapour may be entrained in the airflow drawn through
the tobacco.
[0012] As the vapour passes through the consumable (entrained in the airflow) from the location
of vaporisation to an outlet of the consumable (e.g. a mouthpiece), the vapour cools
and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user. The aerosol will normally
contain the volatile compounds.
[0013] In HT smoking substitute systems, heating as opposed to burning the tobacco material
is believed to cause fewer, or smaller quantities, of the more harmful compounds ordinarily
produced during smoking. Consequently, the HT approach may reduce the odour and/or
health risks that can arise through the burning, combustion and pyrolytic degradation
of tobacco.
[0014] There may be a need for improved design of smoking substitute systems, in particular
HT smoking substitute systems, to enhance the user experience and improve the function
of the HT smoking substitute system.
[0015] The present disclosure has been devised in the light of the above considerations.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] At its most general, the present invention relates to a heated tobacco device for
operable in different modes.
[0017] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided A heated
tobacco device, comprising: a heater; a controller configured to operate the heater
according to at least two user-selectable operating modes, the operating mode being
selectable by the user via user input means, wherein the heater is for engagement
with a heated tobacco consumable, the heated tobacco consumable including an active
component for delivery to the user; wherein the at least two user-selectable operating
modes include: a first mode in which the heater is operated to deliver a first amount
of active component to the user, and a second mode in which the heater is operated
to deliver a second amount of active component to the user, and wherein the second
amount of active component is higher than the first amount of active component.
[0018] By providing a heated tobacco device comprising a controller to operate the device
at least in two user-selectable modes, the device may operate in intense mode for
providing higher delivery of active component of the consumable.
[0019] Optional features will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination
with any aspect.
[0020] Optionally, in the second mode the controller operates the heater to deliver the
active component at a higher rate than in the first mode.
[0021] Optionally, the controller is configured to operate the heater at a first operating
temperature in the first mode and at a second operating temperature in the second
mode, wherein the second operating temperature is higher than the first operating
temperature.
[0022] Optionally, the controller is configured to operate the heater for a first consumable
cycle duration in the first mode and for a second consumable cycle duration in the
second mode, wherein the second consumable cycle duration is longer than the first
consumable cycle duration.
[0023] Optionally, the controller is configured to select from the at least two operating
modes based on a user default mode.
[0024] Optionally, the controller is configured to permit the user to set the user default
mode.
[0025] Optionally, the controller is configured to set the user default mode based on historic
usage of the device.
[0026] Optionally, the active component is nicotine.
[0027] Optionally, the device further comprises: a consumable detector sensor for detecting
a type of consumable engaged with the heater or for detecting the active component
content of the consumable.
[0028] Optionally, the controller is configured to select from the at least two operating
modes based on the type of consumable detected or on the active component content
of the type of consumable detected.
[0029] Optionally, the user input means includes a button.
[0030] Optionally, the user input means includes a touch screen.
[0031] Optionally, the user input means includes a motion sensor for detecting a predetermined
movement of the device.
[0032] Optionally, the user input means includes a voice recognition means.
[0033] Advantageously, the controller 308 is configured to enable the device to operate
in the second mode based on the type and/or content of the consumable.
[0034] The device may comprise an elongate body. An end of the elongate body may be configured
for engagement with an aerosol-forming article. For example, the body may be configured
for engagement with a heated tobacco (HT) consumable (or heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable).
The terms "heated tobacco" and "heat-not-burn" are used interchangeably herein to
describe a consumable that is of the type that is heated rather than combusted (or
are used interchangeably to describe a device for use with such a consumable). The
device may comprise a cavity that is configured for receipt of at least a portion
of the consumable (i.e. for engagement with the consumable). The aerosol-forming article
may be of the type that comprises an aerosol former (e.g. carried by an aerosol-forming
substrate).
[0035] The device may comprise a heater for heating the aerosol-forming article. The heater
may comprise a heating element, which may be in the form of a rod that extends from
the body of the device. The heating element may extend from the end of the body that
is configured for engagement with the aerosol-forming article.
[0036] The heater (and thus the heating element) may be rigidly mounted to the body. The
heating element may be elongate so as to define a longitudinal axis and may, for example,
have a transverse profile (i.e. transverse to a longitudinal axis of the heating element)
that is substantially circular (i.e. the heating element may be generally cylindrical).
Alternatively, the heating element may have a transverse profile that is rectangular
(i.e. the heater may be a "blade heater"). The heating element may alternatively be
in the shape of a tube (i.e. the heater may be a "tube heater"). The heating element
may take other forms (e.g. the heating element may have an elliptical transverse profile).
The shape and/or size (e.g. diameter) of the transverse profile of the heating element
may be generally consistent for the entire length (or substantially the entire length)
of the heating element.
[0037] The heating element may be between 15 mm and 25 mm long, e.g. between 18 mm and 20
mm long, e.g. around 19 mm long. The heating element may have a diameter of between
1.5 mm and 2.5 mm, e.g. a diameter between 2 mm and 2.3 mm, e.g. a diameter of around
2.15 mm.
[0038] The heating element may be formed of ceramic. The heating element may comprise a
core (e.g. a ceramic core) comprising Al2O3. The core of the heating element may have
a diameter of 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm, e.g. between 1.9 mm and 2 mm. The heating element
may comprise an outer layer (e.g. an outer ceramic layer) comprising Al2O3. The thickness
of the outer layer may be between 160 µm and 220 µm, e.g. between 170 µm and 190 µm,
e.g. around 180 µm. The heating element may comprise a heating track, which may extend
longitudinally along the heating element. The heating track may be sandwiched between
the outer layer and the core of the heating element. The heating track may comprise
tungsten and/or rhenium. The heating track may have a thickness of around 20 µm.
[0039] The heating element may be located in the cavity (of the device), and may extend
(e.g. along a longitudinal axis) from an internal base of the cavity towards an opening
of the cavity. The length of the heating element (i.e. along the longitudinal axis
of the heater) may be less than the depth of the cavity. Hence, the heating element
may extend for only a portion of the length of the cavity. That is, the heating element
may not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the cavity.
[0040] The heating element may be configured for insertion into an aerosol-forming article
(e.g. a HT consumable) when an aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity.
In that respect, a distal end (i.e. distal from a base of the heating element where
it is mounted to the device) of the heating element may comprise a tapered portion,
which may facilitate insertion of the heating element into the aerosol-forming article.
The heating element may fully penetrate an aerosol-forming article when the aerosol-forming
article is received in the cavity. That is, the entire length, or substantially the
entire length, of the heating element may be received in the aerosol-forming article.
[0041] The heating element may have a length that is less than, or substantially the same
as, an axial length of an aerosol-forming substrate forming part of an aerosol-forming
article (e.g. a HT consumable). Thus, when such an aerosol-forming article is engaged
with the device, the heating element may only penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate,
rather than other components of the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may
penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate for substantially the entire axial length
of the aerosol forming-substrate of the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be
transferred from (e.g. an outer circumferential surface of) the heating element to
the surrounding aerosol-forming substrate, when penetrated by the heating element.
That is, heat may be transferred radially outwardly (in the case of a cylindrical
heating element) or e.g. radially inwardly (in the case of a tube heater).
[0042] Where the heater is a tube heater, the heating element of the tube heater may surround
at least a portion of the cavity. When the portion of the aerosol-forming article
is received in the cavity, the heating element may surround a portion of the aerosol-forming
article (i.e. so as to heat that portion of the aerosol-forming article). In particular,
the heating element may surround an aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol-forming
article. That is, when an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the
aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article may be located adjacent an
inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated,
heat may be transferred radially inwardly from the inner surface of the heating element
to heat the aerosol forming substrate.
[0043] The cavity may comprise a (e.g. circumferential) wall (or walls) and the (tubular)
heating element may extend around at least a portion of the wall(s). In this way,
the wall may be located between the inner surface of the heating element and an outer
surface of the aerosol-forming article. The wall (or walls) of the cavity may be formed
from a thermally conductive material (e.g. a metal) to allow heat conduction from
the heating element to the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be conducted from
the heating element, through the cavity wall (or walls), to the aerosol-forming substrate
of an aerosol-forming article received in the cavity.
[0044] In some embodiments the device may comprise a cap disposed at the end of the body
that is configured for engagement with an aerosol-forming article. Where the device
comprises a heater having a heating element, the cap may at least partially enclose
the heating element. The cap may be moveable between an open position in which access
is provided to the heating element, and a closed position in which the cap at least
partially encloses the heating element. The cap may be slideably engaged with the
body of the device, and may be slideable between the open and closed positions.
[0045] The cap may define at least a portion of the cavity of the device. That is, the cavity
may be fully defined by the cap, or each of the cap and body may define a portion
of the cavity. Where the cap fully defines the cavity, the cap may comprise an aperture
for receipt of the heating element into the cavity (when the cap is in the closed
position). The cap may comprise an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configured
for receipt of at least a portion of an aerosol-forming article. That is, an aerosol-forming
article may be inserted through the opening and into the cavity (so as to be engaged
with the device).
[0046] The cap may be configured such that when an aerosol-forming article is engaged with
the device (e.g. received in the cavity), only a portion of the aerosol-forming article
is received in the cavity. That is, a portion of the aerosol-forming article (not
received in the cavity) may protrude from (i.e. extend beyond) the opening. This (protruding)
portion of the aerosol-forming article may be a terminal (e.g. mouth) end of the aerosol-forming
article, which may be received in a user's mouth for the purpose of inhaling aerosol
formed by the device.
[0047] The device may comprise a power source or may be connectable to a power source (e.g.
a power source separate to the device). The power source may be electrically connectable
to the heater. In that respect, altering (e.g. toggling) the electrical connection
of the power source to the heater may affect a state of the heater. For example, toggling
the electrical connection of the power source to the heater may toggle the heater
between an on state and an off state. The power source may be a power store. For example,
the power source may be a battery or rechargeable battery (e.g. a lithium ion battery).
[0048] The device may comprise an input connection (e.g. a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C
port, etc.). The input connection may be configured for connection to an external
source of electrical power, such as a mains electrical supply outlet. The input connection
may, in some cases, be used as a substitute for an internal power source (e.g. battery
or rechargeable battery). That is, the input connection may be electrically connectable
to the heater (for providing power to the heater). Hence, in some forms, the input
connection may form at least part of the power source of the device.
[0049] Where the power source comprises a rechargeable power source (such as a rechargeable
battery), the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power source.
[0050] The device may comprise a user interface (Ul). In some embodiments the UI may include
input means to receive operative commands from the user. The input means of the UI
may allow the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the device.
In some embodiments the input means may comprise a power button to switch the device
between an on state and an off state. In some embodiments, the input means may comprise
a motion sensor for receiving operative commands from the user by detecting movement
of the device. In some embodiments, the input means may comprise a microphone for
receiving operative commands by a sound of the user. In some embodiments, the input
means may comprise a touch screen for user to provide operative commands by touch.
In some embodiments, the operative command may comprise changing of modes for modifying
user experience by changing an operating mode of the device.
[0051] In some embodiments the UI may additionally or alternatively comprise output means
to convey information to the user. In some embodiments the output means may comprise
a light to indicate a condition of the device (and/or the aerosol-forming article)
to the user. In some embodiments, the output means may comprise a haptic feedback
to indicate the condition of the device. In some embodiments the output means may
comprise a display screen to display the condition of the device. The condition of
the device (and/or aerosol-forming article) indicated to the user may comprise a condition
indicative of the operation of the heater. For example, the condition may comprise
whether the heater is in an off state or an on state. In some embodiments, the UI
unit may comprise at least one of a button, a display, a touchscreen, a switch, a
light, and the like. For example, the output means may comprise one or more (e.g.
two, three, four, etc.) light-emitting diodes ("LEDs") that may be located on the
body of the device.
[0052] The device may further comprise a puff sensor (e.g. airflow sensor), which form part
of the input means of the Ul. The puff sensor may be configured to detect a user drawing
on an end (i.e. a terminal (mouth) end) of the aerosol-forming article. The puff sensor
may, for example, be a pressure sensor or a microphone. The puff sensor may be configured
to produce a signal indicative of a puff state. The signal may be indicative of the
user drawing (an aerosol from the aerosol-forming article) such that it is e.g. in
the form of a binary signal. Alternatively or additionally, the signal may be indicative
of a characteristic of the draw (e.g. a flow rate of the draw, length of time of the
draw, etc).
[0053] The device may further comprise a consumable detector sensor (e.g. nicotine sensor,
tobacco sensor), which may form part of the input means of the Ul. The consumable
detector sensor may be configured to detect the type of tobacco used or present in
the consumable. The consumable detector sensor may be configured to detect the nicotine
content present in the consumable. The consumable detector sensor may detect the type
of tobacco or nicotine content based on detecting the active compound/molecule in
the consumable. The consumable detector sensor may be configured to produce a signal
indicative of type of tobacco or nicotine content. The signal may be indicative of
the type of consumable inserted in the device such that it is e.g. in the form of
a binary signal. For example, the consumable detector sensor may be able to determine
a visual characteristic of the consumable. For example, a colour of the consumable
may be indicative of the type of consumable. Alternatively, the consumable may include
a detectable visual cue (e.g. a barcode) that is detectable by the consumable detector
sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the signal may be indicative of a characteristic/nature
of the consumable.
[0054] The device may comprise a controller, or may be connectable to a controller that
may be configured to control at least one function of the device. The controller may
comprise a microcontroller that may e.g. be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB).
The controller may also comprise a memory, e.g. non-volatile memory. The memory may
include instructions, which, when implemented, may cause the controller to perform
certain tasks or steps of a method. Where the device comprises an input connection,
the controller may be connected to the input connection.
[0055] The controller may be configured to control the operation of the heater (and e.g.
the heating element). Thus, the controller may be configured to control vaporisation
of an aerosol forming part of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device.
The controller may be configured to control the intensity of aerosol delivery by controlling
an operation of the heater. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to control
the duration of aerosol delivery by controlling operations of the heater. In some
embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the amount of aerosol delivery.
In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the voltage applied
by power source to the heater. For example, the controller may be configured to toggle
between applying a full output voltage (of the power source) to the heater and applying
no voltage to the heater. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may implement
a more complex heater control protocol.
[0056] The device may further comprise a voltage regulator to regulate the output voltage
supplied by the power source to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may
subsequently be applied to the heater.
[0057] In some embodiments, where the device comprises a Ul, the controller may be operatively
connected to one or more components of the Ul. The controller may be configured to
receive command signals from an input means of the Ul. The controller may be configured
to control the heater in response to the command signals. For example, the controller
may be configured to receive "on" and "off" command signals from the UI and, in response,
may control the heater so as to be in a corresponding on or off state. The controller
may be configured to receive command signals from the consumable detector sensor,
and in response, may control the heater. Additionally, the controller may be configured
to receive command signals from user via input means to change modes of the device
to control amount of aerosol delivery.
[0058] The controller may be configured to send output signals to a component of the UI.
The UI may be configured to convey information to a user, via an output means, in
response to such output signals (received from the controller). For example, where
the device comprises one or more LEDs, the LEDs may be operatively connected to the
controller. Hence, the controller may be configured to control the illumination of
the LEDs (e.g. in response to an output signal). For example, the controller may be
configured to control the illumination of the LEDs according to (e.g. an on or off)
state of the heater.
[0059] Where the device comprises sensor (e.g. a puff/airflow sensor/consumable detector
sensor), the controller may be operatively connected to the sensor. The controller
may be configured to receive a signal from the sensor (e.g. indicative of a condition
of the device and/or engaged aerosol-forming article). The controller may be configured
to control the heater, or an aspect of the output means, based on the signal from
the sensor.
[0060] The device may comprise a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly
(e.g. via Bluetooth (e.g. a Bluetooth low-energy connection) or Wi-Fi) with an external
device. Similarly, the input connection may be configured for wired connection to
an external device so as to provide communication between the device and the external
device.
[0061] The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the external device may
be a smart phone, tablet, smart watch, or smart car. An application (e.g. app) may
be installed on the external device (e.g. mobile device). The application may facilitate
communication between the device and the external device via the wired or wireless
connection.
[0062] The wireless or wired interface may be configured to transfer signals between the
external device and the controller of the device. In this respect, the controller
may control an aspect of the device in response to a signal received from an external
device. Alternatively or additionally, an external device may respond to a signal
received from the device (e.g. from the controller of the device).
[0063] In a second aspect, there is provided a system (e.g. a smoking substitute system)
comprising a device according to the first aspect and an aerosol-forming article.
The aerosol-forming article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate at an upstream
end of the aerosol-forming article. The article may be in the form of a smoking substitute
article, e.g. heated tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a heat-not-burn (HNB)
consumable).
[0064] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are intended to refer to the
flow direction of the vapour/aerosol i.e. with the downstream end of the article/consumable
being the mouth end or outlet where the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation
by the user. The upstream end of the article/consumable is the opposing end to the
downstream end.
[0065] The aerosol-forming substrate is capable of being heated to release at least one
volatile compound that can form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be located
at the upstream end of the article/consumable.
[0066] In order to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least
one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised/aerosolised and that may provide
the user with a recreational and/or medicinal effect when inhaled. Suitable chemical
and/or physiologically active volatile compounds include the group consisting of:
nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, opiates and opoids, cathine and cathinone, kavalactones,
mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A together with any combinations, functional
equivalents to, and/or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.
[0067] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant material. The plant material may
comprise least one plant material selected from the list including
Amaranthus dubius, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry),
Argemone mexicana, Amica, Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees,
Galea zacatechichi, Canavalia maritima (Baybean),
Cecropia mexicana (Guamura),
Cestrum noctumum, Cynoglossum virginianum (wild comfrey),
Cytisus scoparius, Damiana, Entada rheedii, Eschscholzia califomica (California Poppy),
Fittonia albivenis, Hippobroma longiflora, Humulus japonica (Japanese Hops),
Humulus lupulus (Hops),
Lactuca virosa (Lettuce Opium),
Laggera alata, Leonotis leonurus, Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort),
Leonurus sibiricus (Honeyweed),
Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia inflata (Indian-tobacco),
Lobelia siphilitica, Nepeta cataria (Catnip),
Nicotiana species (Tobacco),
Nymphaea alba (White Lily),
Nymphaea caerulea (Blue Lily), Opium poppy,
Passiflora incamata (Passionflower),
Pedicularis densiflora (Indian Warrior),
Pedicularis groenlandica (Elephant's Head),
Salvia divinorum, Salvia dorrii (Tobacco Sage), Salvia species (Sage),
Scutellaria galericulata, Scutellaria lateriflora, Scutellaria nana, Scutellaria species (Skullcap),
Sida acuta (Wireweed),
Sida rhombifolia, Silene capensis, Syzygium aromaticum (Clove),
Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon),
Tarchonanthus camphoratus, Tumera diffusa (Damiana),
Verbascum
[0068] (Mullein),
Zamia latifolia (Maconha Brava) together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and/or
synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.
[0069] The plant material may be tobacco. Any type of tobacco may be used. This includes,
but is not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, Maryland Tobacco, dark-air
cured tobacco, oriental tobacco, dark-fired tobacco, perique tobacco and rustica tobacco.
This also includes blends of the above mentioned tobaccos.
[0070] The tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder,
tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenised tobacco, shredded
tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g. slurry
recon or paper recon).
[0071] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gathered sheet of homogenised (e.g.
paper/slurry recon) tobacco or gathered shreds/strips formed from such a sheet.
[0072] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more additives selected from humectants,
flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and binders.
[0073] The flavourant may be provided in solid or liquid form. It may include menthol, liquorice,
chocolate, fruit flavour (including e.g. citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g.
ginger, cinnamon) and tobacco flavour. The flavourant may be evenly dispersed throughout
the aerosol-forming substrate or may be provided in isolated locations and/or varying
concentrations throughout the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0074] The aerosol-forming substrate may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape
such that the article/consumable resembles a conventional cigarette. It may have a
diameter of between 5 and 10mm e.g. between 6 and 9mm or 6 and 8mm e.g. around 7 mm.
It may have an axial length of between 10 and 15mm e.g. between 11 and 14mm such as
around 12 or 13mm.
[0075] The article/consumable may comprise at least one filter element. There may be a terminal
filter element at the downstream/mouth end of the article/consumable.
[0076] The or at least one of the filter element(s) (e.g. the terminal filter element) may
be comprised of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. The at least one filter element
(e.g. the terminal filter element) may be comprised of activated charcoal. The at
least one filter element (e.g. the terminal element) may be comprised of paper. The
or each filter element may be at least partly (e.g. entirely) circumscribed with a
plug wrap e.g. a paper plug wrap.
[0077] The terminal filter element (at the downstream end of the article/consumable) may
be joined to the upstream elements forming the article/consumable by a circumscribing
tipping layer e.g. a tipping paper layer. The tipping paper may have an axial length
longer than the axial length of the terminal filter element such that the tipping
paper completely circumscribes the terminal filter element plus the wrapping layer
surrounding any adjacent upstream element.
[0078] In some embodiments, the article/consumable may comprise an aerosol-cooling element
which is adapted to cool the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate
(by heat exchange) before being inhaled by the user.
[0079] The article/consumable may comprise a spacer element that defines a space or cavity
between the aerosol-forming substrate and the downstream end of the consumable. The
spacer element may comprise a cardboard tube. The spacer element may be circumscribed
by the (paper) wrapping layer.
[0080] The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described
except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.
[0081] The skilled person will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive, a feature
or parameter described in relation to any one of the above aspects may be applied
to any other aspect. Furthermore, except where mutually exclusive, any feature or
parameter described herein may be applied to any aspect and/or combined with any other
feature or parameter described herein.
SUMMARY OF THE FIGURES
[0082] So that the invention may be understood, and so that further aspects and features
thereof may be appreciated, embodiments illustrating the principles of the invention
will now be discussed in further detail with reference to the accompanying figures,
in which:
Figure 1A is a schematic of a smoking substitute system;
Figure 1B is a schematic of a variation of the smoking substitute system of Figure
1A;
Figure 2A is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitute system with
the consumable engaged with the device;
Figure 2B is a front view of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system
with the consumable disengaged from the device;
Figure 2C is a section view of the consumable of the first embodiment of the smoking
substitute system;
Figure 2D is a detailed view of an end of the device of the first embodiment of the
smoking substitute system;
Figure 2E is a section view of the first embodiment of the substitute smoking system;
and Figure 3 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a heated tobacco device, and;
Figure 3 is a schematic of an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0083] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference
to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those
skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by
reference.
[0084] Figure 1A is a schematic providing a general overview of a smoking substitute system
100. The system 100 includes a substitute smoking device 101 and an aerosol-forming
article in the form of a consumable 102, which comprises an aerosol former 103. The
system is configured to vaporise the aerosol former by heating the aerosol former
103 (so as to form a vapour/aerosol for inhalation by a user).
[0085] In the illustrated system, the heater 104 forms part of the consumable 102 and is
configured to heat the aerosol former 103. In this variation, the heater 104 is electrically
connectable to the power source 105, for example, when the consumable 102 is engaged
with the device 101. Heat from the heater 104 vaporises the aerosol former 103 to
produce a vapour. The vapour subsequently condenses to form an aerosol, which is ultimately
inhaled by the user.
[0086] The system 100 further comprises a power source 105 that forms part of the device
101. In other embodiments the power source 105 may be external to (but connectable
to) the device 101. The power source 105 is electrically connectable to the heater
104 such that it is able to supply power to the heater 104 (i.e. for the purpose of
heating the aerosol former 103). Thus, control of the electrical connection of the
power source 105 to the heater 104 provides control of the state of the heater 104.
The power source 105 may be a power store, for example a battery or rechargeable battery
(e.g. a lithium ion battery).
[0087] The system 100 further comprises an I/O module comprising a connector 106 (e.g. in
the form of a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.). The connector 106 is configured
for connection to an external source of electrical power, e.g. a mains electrical
supply outlet. The connector 106 may be used in substitution for the power source
105. That is the connector 106 may be electrically connectable to the heater 104 so
as to supply electricity to the heater 104. In such embodiments, the device may not
include a power source, and the power source of the system may instead comprise the
connector 106 and an external source of electrical power (to which the connector 106
provides electrical connection).
[0088] In some embodiments, the connector 106 may be used to charge and recharge the power
source 105 where the power source 105 includes a rechargeable battery.
[0089] The system 100 also comprises a user interface (Ul) 107. Although not shown, the
UI 107 may include input means to receive commands from a user. The input means of
the UI 107 allows the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the
system 100. The input means may, for example, be in the form of a button, touchscreen,
switch, microphone, motion sensor, etc.
[0090] The UI 107 also comprises output means to convey information to the user. The output
means may, for example, comprise lights (e.g. LEDs), a display screen, speaker, vibration
generator, etc. The system 100 further comprises a controller 108 that is configured
to control at least one function of the device 101. In the illustrated embodiment,
the controller 108 is a component of the device 101, but in other embodiments may
be separate from (but connectable to) the device 101. The controller 108 is configured
to control the operation of the heater 104 and, for example, may be configured to
control the voltage applied from the power source 105 to the heater 104. The controller
108 may be configured to toggle the supply of power to the heater 104 between an on
state, in which the full output voltage of the power source 105 is applied to the
heater 104, and an off state, in which the no voltage is applied to the heater 104.
[0091] Although not shown, the system 100 may also comprise a voltage regulator to regulate
the output voltage from the power source 105 to form a regulated voltage. The regulated
voltage may then be applied to the heater 104.
[0092] In addition to being connected to the heater 104, the controller 108 is operatively
connected to the UI 107. Thus, the controller 108 may receive an input signal from
the input means of the UI 107. Similarly, the controller 108 may transmit output signals
to the UI 107. In response, the output means of the UI 107 may convey information,
based on the output signals, to a user. The controller also comprises a memory 109,
which is a non-volatile memory. The memory 109 includes instructions, which, when
implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.
[0093] Figure 1B is a schematic showing a variation of the system 100 of Figure 1A. In the
system 100' of Figure 1B, the heater 104 forms part of the device 101, rather than
the consumable 102. In this variation, the heater 104 is electrically connected to
the power source 105.
[0094] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a heated-tobacco (HT) smoking substitute system 200.
The system 200 is an example of the systems 100, 100' described in relation to Figures
1A or 1B. System 200 includes an HT device 201 and an HT consumable 202. The description
of Figures 1A and 1B above is applicable to the system 200 of Figures 2A and 2B, and
will thus not be repeated.
[0095] The device 201 and the consumable 202 are configured such that the consumable 202
can be engaged with the device 201. Figure 2A shows the device 201 and the consumable
202 in an engaged state, whilst Figure 2B shows the device 201 and the consumable
202 in a disengaged state.
[0096] The device 201 comprises a body 209 and cap 210. In use the cap 210 is engaged at
an end of the body 209. Although not apparent from the figures, the cap 210 is moveable
relative to the body 209. In particular, the cap 210 is slideable and can slide along
a longitudinal axis of the body 209.
[0097] The device 201 comprises an output means (forming part of the UI of the device 201)
in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 211 arranged linearly along
the longitudinal axis of the device 201 and on an outer surface of the body 209 of
the device 201. A button 212 is also arranged on an outer surface of the body 209
of the device 201 and is axially spaced (i.e. along the longitudinal axis) from the
plurality of LEDs 211.
[0098] Figure 2C show a detailed section view of the consumable of 202 of the system 200.
The consumable 202 generally resembles a cigarette. In that respect, the consumable
202 has a generally cylindrical form with a diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of
70 mm. The consumable 202 comprises an aerosol forming substrate 213, a terminal filter
element 214, an upstream filter element 215 and a spacer element 216. In other embodiments,
the consumable may further comprise a cooling element. A cooling element may exchange
heat with vapour that is formed by the aerosol-forming substrate 213 in order to cool
the vapour so as to facilitate condensation of the vapour.
[0099] The aerosol-forming substrate 213 is substantially cylindrical and is located at
an upstream end 217 of the consumable 202, and comprises the aerosol former of the
system 200. In that respect, the aerosol forming substrate 213 is configured to be
heated by the device 201 to release a vapour. The released vapour is subsequently
entrained in an airflow flowing through the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The airflow
is produced by the action of the user drawing on a downstream 218 (i.e. terminal or
mouth) end of the consumable 202.
[0100] In the present embodiment, the aerosol forming substrate 213 comprises tobacco material
that may, for example, include any suitable parts of the tobacco plant (e.g. leaves,
stems, roots, bark, seeds and flowers). The tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf
tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded
tobacco, homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco
and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g. slurry recon or paper recon). For example, the
aerosol-forming substrate 213 may comprise a gathered sheet of homogenised (e.g. paper/slurry
recon) tobacco or gathered shreds/strips formed from such a sheet.
[0101] In order to generate an aerosol, the aerosol forming substrate 213 comprises at least
one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised/aerosolised and that may provide
the user with a recreational and/or medicinal effect when inhaled. The aerosol-forming
substrate 213 may further comprise one or more additives. For example, such additives
may be in the form of humectants (e.g. propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine),
flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and/or binders.
[0102] The terminal filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical, and is located
downstream of the aerosol forming substrate 213 at the downstream end 218 of the consumable
202. The terminal filter element 214 is in the form of a hollow bore filter element
having a bore 219 (e.g. for airflow) formed therethrough. The diameter of the bore
219 is 2 mm. The terminal filter element 214 is formed of a porous (e.g. monoacetate)
filter material. As set forth above, the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202
(i.e. where the terminal filter 214 is located) forms a mouthpiece portion of the
consumable 202 upon which the user draws. Airflow is drawn from the upstream end 217,
thorough the components of the consumable 202, and out of the downstream end 218.
The airflow is driven by the user drawing on the downstream end 218 (i.e. the mouthpiece
portion) of the consumable 202.
[0103] The upstream filter element 215 is located axially adjacent to the aerosol-forming
substrate 213, between the aerosol-forming substrate 213 and the terminal filter element
214. Like the terminal filter 214, the upstream filter element 215 is in the form
of a hollow bore filter element, such that it has a bore 220 extending axially therethrough.
In this way, the upstream filter 215 may act as an airflow restrictor. The upstream
filter element 215 is formed of a porous (e.g. monoacetate) filter material. The bore
220 of the upstream filter element 215 has a larger diameter (3 mm) than the terminal
filter element 214.
[0104] The spacer 216 is in the form of a cardboard tube, which defines a cavity or chamber
between the upstream filter element 215 and the terminal filter element 214. The spacer
216 acts to allow both cooling and mixing of the vapour/aerosol from the aerosol-forming
substrate 213. The spacer has an external diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of
14mm.
[0105] Although not apparent from the figure, the aerosol-forming substrate 213, upstream
filter 215 and spacer 216 are circumscribed by a paper wrapping layer. The terminal
filter 214 is circumscribed by a tipping layer that also circumscribes a portion of
the paper wrapping layer (so as to connect the terminal filter 214 to the remaining
components of the consumable 202). The upstream filter 215 and terminal filter 214
are circumscribed by further wrapping layers in the form of plug wraps.
[0106] Returning now to the device 201, Figure 2D illustrates a detailed view of the end
of the device 201 that is configured to engage with the consumable 202. The cap 210
of the device 201 includes an opening 221 to an internal cavity 222 (more apparent
from Figure 2D) defined by the cap 210. The opening 221 and the cavity 222 are formed
so as to receive at least a portion of the consumable 202. During engagement of the
consumable 202 with the device 201, a portion of the consumable 202 is received through
the opening 221 and into the cavity 222. After engagement (see Figure 2B), the downstream
end 218 of the consumable 202 protrudes from the opening 221 and thus also protrudes
from the device 201. The opening 221 includes laterally disposed notches 226. When
a consumable 202 is received in the opening 221, these notches 226 remain open and
could, for example, be used for retaining a cover in order to cover the end of the
device 201.
[0107] Figure 2E shows a cross section through a central longitudinal plane through the
device 201. The device 201 is shown with the consumable 202 engaged therewith.
[0108] The device 201 comprises a heater 204 comprising heating element 223. The heater
204 forms part of the body 209 of the device 201 and is rigidly mounted to the body
209. In the illustrated embodiment, the heater 204 is a rod heater with a heating
element 223 having a circular transverse profile. In other embodiments the heater
may be in the form of a blade heater (e.g. heating element with a rectangular transverse
profile) or a tube heater (e.g. heating element with a tubular form).
[0109] The heating element 223 of the heater 204 projects from an internal base of the cavity
222 along a longitudinal axis towards the opening 221. As is apparent from the figure,
the length (i.e. along the longitudinal axis) of the heating element is less than
a depth of the cavity 222. In this way, the heating element 223 does not protrude
from or extend beyond the opening 221.
[0110] When the consumable 202 is received in the cavity 222 (as is shown in Figure 2E),
the heating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate 213 of the consumable
202. In particular, the heating element 223 extends for nearly the entire axial length
of the aerosol-forming substrate 213 when inserted therein. Thus, when the heater
204 is activated, heat is transferred radially from an outer circumferential surface
the heating element 223 to the aerosol-forming substrate 213.
[0111] The device 201 further comprises an electronics cavity 224. A power source, in the
form of a rechargeable battery 205 (a lithium ion battery), is located in electronics
cavity 224.
[0112] The device 201 includes a connector (i.e. forming part of an IO module of the device
201) in the form of a USB port 206. The connector may alternatively be, for example,
a micro-USB port or a USB-C port for examples. The USB port 206 may be used to recharge
the rechargeable battery 205.
[0113] The device 201 includes a controller (not shown) located in the electronics cavity
224. The controller comprises a microcontroller mounted on a printed circuit board
(PCB). The USB port 206 is also connected to the controller 208 (i.e. connected to
the PCB and microcontroller).
[0114] The controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of the device 202.
For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the operation of the heater
204. Such control of the operation of the heater 204 may be accomplished by the controller
toggling the electrical connection of the rechargeable battery 205 to the heater 204.
For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the heater 204 in response
to a user depressing the button 212. Depressing the button 212 may cause the controller
to allow a voltage (from the rechargeable battery 205) to be applied to the heater
204 (so as to cause the heating element 223 to be heated).
[0115] The controller is also configured to control the LEDs 211 in response to (e.g. a
detected) a condition of the device 201 or the consumable 202. For example, the controller
may control the LEDs to indicate whether the device 201 is in an on state or an off
state (e.g. one or more of the LEDs may be illuminated by the controller when the
device is in an on state).
[0116] The device 201 comprises a further input means (i.e. in addition to the button 212)
in the form of a puff sensor 225. The puff sensor 225 is configured to detect a user
drawing (i.e. inhaling) at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202. The puff
sensor 225 may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor, flowmeter or a microphone.
The puff sensor 225 is operatively connected to the controller 208 in the electronics
cavity 224, such that a signal from the puff sensor 225, indicative of a puff state
(i.e. drawing or not drawing), forms an input to the controller 208 (and can thus
be responded to by the controller 208).
[0117] Figure 3 shows a block diagram of the heated tobacco device 301.
[0118] The device 301 comprises a heater 304 comprising a heating element.
[0119] The device 301 includes a consumable detector sensor 328 and a puff sensor 325. A
signal from the puff sensor may be used to actuate a change of mode from a first mode
to a second mode, or second mode to first mode, after detecting a predetermined puff
signal from the user. In some embodiments, the predetermined puff signal may be a
user puff exceeding a puff duration threshold, for example. In some embodiments, the
puff sensor 325 may give a signal to the controller 308 for changing the mode from
first to second or from second to first after detecting a predetermined duration of
puff.
[0120] The consumable detector sensor 328 is configured to detect various types of consumable
or of tobacco. The consumable detector sensor 328 may detect the level of nicotine
content present in the tobacco. The consumable detector sensor 328, may, for example,
detect chemicals or molecules to identify the tobacco and/or the level of nicotine
content. The consumable detector sensor 328 may be a bio-sensor which, in use, is
in contact with the consumable and identify type of tobacco or nicotine level. The
consumable detector sensor 328 may be an aerosol sensor which detects the chemicals
present in the aerosol from the consumable to detect the type of tobacco and/or nicotine
level. The consumable detector sensor 328 is operatively coupled to the controller
308. The consumable detector sensor 328 may signal the controller 308 indicating the
type of tobacco present in the consumable 202. The signal from the consumable detector
sensor 328 forms an input to the controller 308, based on which the controller 308
selects an operating mode.
[0121] The controller 308 is configured to operate the heater of the device 202 according
to at least two user-selectable operating modes. The two user-selectable operating
modes are a first and second mode. The first may be considered a normal or standard
mode. In the first mode, a first amount of nicotine is delivered to the user. The
second mode may be considered a "boost" or "intense" mode. In the second mode, as
second amount of nicotine is delivered to the user. The second amount is greater than
the first amount. In other words, the device delivers more nicotine to the user when
operating in the second mode than in the first mode.
[0122] There a number of operating mode mechanisms to achieve the difference in nicotine
delivery amounts between operating modes. Some of those mechanisms are exemplified
here. However, the skilled person will appreciate that other mechanisms are possible.
[0123] In some embodiments, the duration of the consumable cycle is higher in the second
mode as compared to the first mode. In other words, the heater is maintained at operating
temperature for a longer period in the second mode than in the first mode. The device
is thus able to deliver a greater amount of nicotine in the second mode than in the
first mode. For example, operating the heater in the second mode for 5 mins instead
of 4 mins in the first mode. This permits the user to have an 'intense' consumable
cycle during which more nicotine is delivered. The consumable cycle is the period
in which a single consumable is heated for use by the user.
[0124] In some embodiments, in the second mode, the controller 308 is configured to operate
the heater at a higher temperature than in in the first mode. A higher temperature
may lead to a higher nicotine output for each puff taken by the user. The nicotine
is thus delivered at higher rate in the second mode than in the first mode. The controller
308 may be configured to increase the temperature of the heater 304 by controlling
power supply to the heater.
[0125] The second mode can be selected by the user using a user interface of the device.
The user interface may include at least one of: a button, a touch screen, a motion
sensor, or a voice recognition means. Any of these components may be used to select
or change the operating mode of the device. In embodiments including a motion sensor,
the device may be configured to change operating mode is response to detecting a predetermined
motion of the device performed by the user.
[0126] In some embodiments, the device has a default mode, where the default mode is one
of the first or second operating modes. The device will operate according to the default
mode unless and until the user changes the mode (for example, using a user interface
of the device). In some embodiments, the device is configured to allow the user to
change the default mode. In some embodiments, the device is configured to select the
default mode based on historic use of the device.
[0127] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims,
or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of
a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining
the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such
features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.
[0128] While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments
described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments
of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting.
Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention.
[0129] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are
provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors
do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.
[0130] Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not
to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.
[0131] Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context
requires otherwise, the words "have", "comprise", and "include", and variations such
as "having", "comprises", "comprising", and "including" will be understood to imply
the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the
exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.
[0132] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly
dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular
value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed,
another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular
value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent
"about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.
The term "about" in relation to a numerical value is optional and means, for example,
+/- 10%.
[0133] The words "preferred" and "preferably" are used herein refer to embodiments of the
invention that may provide certain benefits under some circumstances. It is to be
appreciated, however, that other embodiments may also be preferred under the same
or different circumstances. The recitation of one or more preferred embodiments therefore
does not mean or imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended
to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, or from the scope of
the claims.