SMOKING SUBSTITUTE DEVICE

Abstract

 A smoking substitute device (103) having an aerosol generator and a fluid outlet (108). The aerosol generator comprises a heater (111) operable to generate an aerosol vapour from an aerosol precursor (104) and is arranged in fluid communication with said fluid outlet (108) such that a user may draw fluid including an aerosol generated by the aerosol generator towards the fluid outlet. The system further comprises a condensation surface (130) arranged between the aerosol generator and the fluid outlet (108), the condensation surface (130) being arranged for flow of said aerosol thereacross and being configured such that aerosol drawn from the aerosol generator towards the fluid outlet (108) forms condensation on said condensation surface (130). A region of said condensation surface (130) carries a flavourant comprising one or more substances effective to activate at least one of an olfactory receptor in a human nasal cavity; and a taste receptor in a human oral cavity. The formation of condensation on said condensation surface (130) is effective to release flavourant from the condensation surface for entrainment in fluid being drawn across the condensation surface towards the fluid outlet (108).

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a smoking substitute device and, in particular, a smoking substitute device that is able to deliver flavour to a user.

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] Combustion of organic material such as tobacco is known to produce tar and other potentially harmful byproducts. There have been proposed various smoking substitute systems in order to avoid the smoking of tobacco.

[0004] 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.

[0005] 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 a flavourant without, or with fewer of, the odour and health risks associated with traditional smoking.

[0006] 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.

[0007] 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. There are a number of different categories of smoking substitute systems, each utilising a different smoking substitute approach.

[0008] One approach is the so-called "vaping" approach, in which a vaporisable liquid, typically referred to (and referred to herein) as "e-liquid", is heated by a heating device (referred to herein as an electronic cigarette or "e-cigarette" device) to produce an aerosol vapour which is inhaled by a user. The e-liquid typically includes a base liquid as well as nicotine and/or a flavourant. The resulting vapour therefore also typically contains nicotine and/or a flavourant. The base liquid may include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine.

[0009] A typical e-cigarette device includes a mouthpiece, a power source (typically a battery), a tank for containing e-liquid, as well as a heating device. In use, electrical energy is supplied from the power source to the heating device, which heats the e-liquid to produce an aerosol (or "vapour") which is inhaled by a user through the mouthpiece.

[0010] E-cigarettes can be configured in a variety of ways. For example, there are "closed system" vaping smoking substitute systems, which typically have a sealed tank and heating element. The tank is prefilled with e-liquid and is not intended to be refilled by an end user. One subset of closed system vaping smoking substitute systems include a main body which includes the power source, wherein the main body is configured to be physically and electrically coupled to a consumable including the tank and the heating element. In this way, when the tank of a consumable has been emptied, that consumable is disposed of. The main body can be reused by connecting it to a new, replacement, consumable. Another subset of closed system vaping smoking substitute systems are completely disposable, and intended for one-use only.

[0011] There are also "open system" vaping smoking substitute systems which typically have a tank that is configured to be refilled by a user. In this way the entire device can be used multiple times.

[0012] An example vaping smoking substitute system is the myblu™ e-cigarette. The myblu™ e-cigarette is a closed system which includes a main body and a consumable. The main body and consumable are physically and electrically coupled together by pushing the consumable into the main body. The main body includes a rechargeable battery. The consumable includes a mouthpiece, a sealed tank which contains e-liquid, as well as a heater, which for this device is a heating filament coiled around a portion of a wick. The wick is partially immersed in the e-liquid, and conveys e-liquid from the tank to the heating filament. The device is activated when a microprocessor on board the main body detects a user inhaling through the mouthpiece. When the device is activated, electrical energy is supplied from the power source to the heating device, which heats e-liquid from the tank to produce a vapour which is inhaled by a user through the mouthpiece.

[0013] For a smoking substitute device it is desirable to deliver nicotine into the user's lungs, where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. As explained above, in the so-called "vaping" approach, e-liquid is heated by a heating device to produce an aerosol vapour which is inhaled by a user. Many e-cigarettes also deliver flavour to the user to enhance the experience. In such e-cigarettes, flavour compounds are contained in the e-liquid that is heated. However, toxicology restrictions are placed on the amount of flavour that can be contained in the e-liquid, and this can result in some e-liquid flavours delivering a weak and underwhelming taste sensation to consumers in the pursuit of safety. Further, there is a view that providing a flavourant as part of the e-liquid, such that the flavourant is vaporised with the e-liquid, may be disadvantageous.

[0014] There may be a need for improved design of smoking substitute systems, in particular in regards to the delivery of flavour to a user.

[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 smoking substitute system or smoking substitute device having a surface on which an aerosol can condense to release a flavourant from said surface.

[0017] Providing a flavourant in this way may allow for increased versatility in the provision of flavour to the user of a smoking substitute system.

[0018] According to a first aspect there is provided a smoking substitute device having an aerosol generator and a fluid outlet, the aerosol generator comprising a heater operable to generate an aerosol vapour from an aerosol precursor and being arranged in fluid communication with said fluid outlet such that a user may draw fluid including an aerosol generated by the aerosol generator towards the fluid outlet; wherein a condensation surface is arranged between the aerosol generator and the fluid outlet, the condensation surface being arranged for flow of said aerosol thereacross and being configured such that aerosol drawn from the aerosol generator towards the fluid outlet forms condensation on said condensation surface; a region of said condensation surface carrying a flavourant comprising one or more substances effective to activate at least one of an olfactory receptor in a human nasal cavity and a taste receptor in a human oral cavity; and wherein the formation of condensation on said condensation surface is effective to release flavourant from the condensation surface for entrainment in fluid being drawn across the condensation surface towards the fluid outlet.

[0019] Optionally, the flavourant can be provided as a coating applied to a region of the condensation surface.

[0020] Conveniently, a region of the condensation surface can define part of a fluid passage between the aerosol generator and the fluid outlet.

[0021] Advantageously, a region of the condensation surface may define a peripheral wall of said fluid passage.

[0022] Optionally, the condensation surface can be substantially thermally isolated from the heater.

[0023] Conveniently, at least part of the condensation surface can be formed of metal.

[0024] Advantageously, at least part of the condensation surface can be formed of plastic material.

[0025] Optionally, the condensation surface can be comprised within a removable component of the smoking substitute device.

[0026] Conveniently, the condensation surface can be comprised within a replaceable component of the smoking substitute device.

[0027] Advantageously, the condensation surface can be comprised within a consumable component of the smoking substitute device.

[0028] Optionally, the smoking substitute device can be comprised within a smoking substitute system which also includes a reusable part comprising a power source for the aerosol generator.

[0029] Conveniently, the smoking substitute device can be a removable component of the smoking substitute system.

[0030] Advantageously, the smoking substitute device can be a replaceable component of the smoking substitute system.

[0031] Optionally, the smoking substitute device can be a consumable component of the smoking substitute system.

[0032] Conveniently, the aerosol precursor can be substantially free of flavourant.

[0033] Advantageously, the aerosol precursor can be a liquid.

[0034] Optionally, the aerosol precursor can contain nicotine.

[0035] The flavourant may be natural or synthetic. For example, the flavourant 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 across a condensation surface (e.g. as a uniform coating on a condensation surface) or may be provided in isolated locations and/or varying concentrations.

[0036] The smoking substitute device may be in the form of a consumable. The consumable may be configured for engagement with a main body (i.e. so as to form a closed smoking substitute system). For example, the consumable may comprise components of the system that are disposable, and the main body may comprise non-disposable or non-consumable components (e.g. power supply, controller, sensor, etc.) that facilitate the delivery of aerosol by the consumable. In such an embodiment, the aerosol precursor (e.g. e-liquid) may be replenished by replacing a used consumable with an unused consumable.

[0037] Alternatively, the smoking substitute device may be a non-consumable apparatus (e.g. that is in the form of an open smoking substitute system). In such embodiments an aerosol precursor (e.g. e-liquid) of the system may be replenished by re-filling e.g. a reservoir of the smoking substitute device with the aerosol precursor (rather than replacing a consumable component of the apparatus).

[0038] In light of this, it should be appreciated that some of the features described herein as being part of the smoking substitute device may alternatively form part of a main body for engagement with the smoking substitute device (i.e. when the smoking substitute device is in the form of a consumable).

[0039] Where the smoking substitute device is in the form of a consumable, the main body and the consumable may be configured to be physically coupled together. For example, the consumable may be at least partially received in a recess of the main body, such that there is an interference fit between the main body and the consumable. Alternatively, the main body and the consumable may be physically coupled together by screwing one onto the other, or through a bayonet fitting.

[0040] Thus, the smoking substitute device may comprise one or more engagement portions for engaging with a main body. In this way, one end of the smoking substitute device may be coupled with the main body, whilst an opposing end of the smoking substitute device may define a mouthpiece of the smoking substitute system.

[0041] The smoking substitute device may comprise a reservoir configured to store an aerosol precursor, such as an e-liquid. The e-liquid may, for example, comprise a base liquid and e.g. nicotine. The base liquid may include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine. The e-liquid may be flavourless. That is, the e-liquid may not contain any flavourants and may consist solely of a base liquid of propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine and nicotine.

[0042] The reservoir may be in the form of a tank. At least a portion of the tank may be translucent. For example, the tank may comprise a window to allow a user to visually assess the quantity of e-liquid in the tank. A housing of the smoking substitute device may comprise a corresponding aperture (or slot) or window that may be aligned with a translucent portion (e.g. window) of the tank. The reservoir may be referred to as a "clearomizer" if it includes a window, or a "cartomizer" if it does not.

[0043] The smoking substitute device comprises a passage for fluid flow therethrough. The passage extends through (at least a portion of) the smoking substitute device, between openings that may define an inlet and an outlet of the passage. The outlet may be at a mouthpiece of the aerosol-delivery device. In this respect, a user may draw fluid (e.g. air) into and through the passage by inhaling at the outlet (i.e. using the mouthpiece). The passage may be at least partially defined by the tank. The tank may substantially (or fully) define the passage. In this respect, the tank may surround the passage.

[0044] The smoking substitute device comprises an aerosol generator. The aerosol generator comprises a heater. The aerosol generator may further comprise a wick. The wick may comprise a porous material. A portion of the wick may be exposed to fluid flow in the passage. The wick may also comprise one or more portions in contact with liquid stored in the reservoir. For example, opposing ends of the wick may protrude into the reservoir and a central portion (between the ends) may extend across the passage so as to be exposed to fluid flow in the passage. Thus, fluid may be drawn (e.g. by capillary action) along the wick, from the reservoir to the exposed portion of the wick.

[0045] The heater may comprise a heating element, which may be in the form of a filament wound about the wick (e.g. the filament may extend helically about the wick). The filament may be wound about the exposed portion of the wick. The heating element may be electrically connected (or connectable) to a power source. Thus, in operation, the power source may supply electricity to (i.e. apply a voltage across) the heating element so as to heat the heating element. This may cause liquid stored in the wick (i.e. drawn from the tank) to be heated so as to form a vapour and become entrained in fluid flowing through the passage. This vapour may subsequently cool to form an aerosol in the passage.

[0046] The smoking substitute device (or main body engaged with the smoking substitute device) may comprise a power source. The power source may be electrically connected (or connectable) to the heater of the smoking substitute device (e.g. when engaged with the main body). The power source may be a battery (e.g. a rechargeable battery). A connector in the form of e.g. a USB port may be provided for recharging this battery.

[0047] When the smoking substitute device is in the form of a consumable, the smoking substitute device may comprise an electrical interface for interfacing with a corresponding electrical interface of the main body. One or both of the electrical interfaces may include one or more electrical contacts. Thus, when the main body is engaged with the consumable, the electrical interface may be configured to transfer electrical power from the power source to a heater of the consumable.

[0048] The electrical interface may also be used to identify the smoking substitute device (in the form of a consumable) from a list of known types. For example, the consumable may have a certain concentration of nicotine and the electrical interface may be used to identify this. The electrical interface may additionally or alternatively be used to identify when a consumable is connected to the main body.

[0049] Again, where the smoking substitute device is in the form of a consumable, the main body may comprise an interface, which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g. a type) of a consumable engaged with the main body. In this respect, the consumable may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[0050] The smoking substitute device or main body may comprise a controller, which may include a microprocessor. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heater of the smoking substitute device (e.g. via the electrical contacts). A memory may be provided and may be operatively connected to the controller. The memory may include non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions which, when implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.

[0051] The main body or smoking substitute device may comprise a wireless interface, which may be configured to communicate wirelessly with another device, for example a mobile device, e.g. via Bluetooth®. To this end, the wireless interface could include a Bluetooth® antenna. Other wireless communication interfaces, e.g. WiFi®, are also possible. The wireless interface may also be configured to communicate wirelessly with a remote server.

[0052] A puff sensor may be provided that is configured to detect a puff (i.e. inhalation from a user). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal to the controller that is indicative of a puff state (i.e. puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor. That is, the controller may control power supply to the heater of the consumable in response to a puff detection by the sensor. The control may be in the form of activation of the heater in response to a detected puff. That is, the smoking substitute device may be configured to be activated when a puff is detected by the puff sensor. When the smoking substitute device is in the form of a consumable, the puff sensor may form part of the consumable or the main body.

[0053] The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.

Summary of the Figures

[0054] 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 1 is a front view of a smoking substitute device and a main body in an engaged position;

Figure 2 is a front view of a smoking substitute device and a main body in a disengaged position;

Figure 3 is a section view of a smoking substitute device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 is an enlarged section view of an exemplary configuration of a passage having a condensation surface according to the present invention, wherein the condensation surface is located in a part of a fluid passage having substantially parallel sides;

Figure 5 is an end-on view of the passage illustrated in Figure 4;

Figure 6 is an enlarged section view similar to that of Figure 4, but which shows an alternative exemplary configuration of a passage having a condensation surface according to the present invention, wherein the condensation surface has a corrugated or ridged structure, the corrugations or ridges being generally perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow along the passage

Figure 7 is another similar section view showing another alternative configuration of a passage having a condensation surface according to the present invention, wherein the condensation surface is formed on a plurality of projections into the fluid passage;

Figure 8 shows a section view of an alternative exemplary configuration which is somewhat similar to that illustrated in Figure 7;

Figure 9 shows an end-on view of an exemplary configuration of a passage having another possible configuration of condensation surface, wherein the condensation surface is provided on surfaces arranged generally parallel to the direction of flow along the fluid passage;

Figure 10 shows an end-on view of another exemplary configuration of a passage having a condensation surface, wherein the condensation surface is provided on a component mounted within the passage;

Figure 11 shows an end-on view of an alternative exemplary configuration, which is somewhat similar to that illustrated in Figure 10;

Figure 12 shows a section view of an exemplary configuration of a passage having a plug comprising a condensation surface according to the present invention; and

Figure 13 shows an end-on view of the passage illustrated in Figure 12, illustrated further possible details of the plug.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0055] 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.

[0056] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101. The system 101 comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102 of the system 101, and a smoking substitute device in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or "pod") 103. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103 (smoking substitute device) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101 is a closed system.

[0057] As is apparent from Figures 1 and 2, the consumable 103 is configured to engage the main body 102. Figure 1 shows the main body 102 and the consumable 103 in an engaged state, whilst Figure 2 shows the main body 102 and the consumable 103 in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103 is received in a cavity of the main body 102 and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102 and consumable 103 may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[0058] The system 101 is configured to vaporise an aerosol-former or aerosol precursor, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104. The e-liquid 104 comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine. The e-liquid 104 may comprise additional components to promote condensation formation on one or more surfaces within the system, such as within the consumable 103. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104 is flavourless (and does not include any added flavourant). That is, if the e-liquid 104 were to be inhaled (i.e. in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavour or taste. It is to be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments the e-liquid 104 may comprise an inherent flavourant. In the present specification, the term flavourant may be understood as referring to one or more substances effective to activate at least one of an olfactory receptor in a human nasal cavity; and a taste receptor in a human oral cavity.

[0059] As is more apparent from Figure 3, the e-liquid 104 is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105 that forms part of the consumable 103. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103 is a "single-use" consumable 103. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104 in the tank 105, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e. aerosol precursor) may be the only part of the system that is truly "single-use". That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g. a refillable cartomizer).

[0060] The tank 105 surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a fluid flow passage 106 that extends between an inlet 107 and an outlet 108 at opposing ends of the consumable 103. In this respect, the passage 106 comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103 that engages with the main body 102, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103 that comprises a mouthpiece 109 of the system 101. When the consumable 103 is engaged with the main body 102, a user can inhale (i.e. take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109 so as to draw air through the passage 106, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107 to the outlet 108 of the passage 106. The passage 106 may be partially defined by a tube (e.g. a metal tube or a tube formed from plastic material) extending through the consumable 103. The passage 106 is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103 and the main body 102 (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101 is drawn into the passage 106 (during an inhale).

[0061] The smoking substitute device 101 is configured to vaporise the e-liquid 104 for inhalation by a user. To provide this function, the consumable 103 comprises an aerosol generator having a porous wick 110 and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111 that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110. The aerosol generator is arranged between the inlet 107 and outlet 108 of the smoking substitute system 101, and is in fluid communication with both the inlet 107 and outlet 108. The porous wick 110 extends across the passage 106 (e.g. transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106) and opposing ends of the wick 110 extend into the tank 105 (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104). In this way, e-liquid 104 contained in the tank 105 is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110 to a central portion of the porous wick 110 so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106 (i.e. caused by a user inhaling).

[0062] The helical filament 111 is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110 and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112 mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102 (when engaged). When the consumable 103 is engaged with the main body 102, the electrical contacts 112 contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111 is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102 to the filament 111 in order to heat the filament 111. This heat is transferred from the filament 111 to the porous wick 110 which causes e-liquid 104 conveyed by the porous wick 110 to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporises. The vaporised e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporisation point at the filament 111 and the outlet 108 of the passage 106, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109, by a user of the system 101.

[0063] The power source of the main body 102 may be in the form of a battery (e.g. a rechargeable battery). The main body 102 may comprise a connector in the form of e.g. a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102 may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111. In this way, the filament 111 may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g. during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102 may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e. inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e. puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[0064] Although not shown, the main body 102 and consumable 103 may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g. a type) of a consumable 103 engaged with the main body 102. In this respect, the consumable 103 may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[0065] In the illustrated smoking substitute device 103, the passage 106 comprises at least one condensation surface 130 on which aerosol from the aerosol generator may form condensation. The condensation surface 130 is arranged in the passage 106 such that aerosol flows across the surface. The condensation surface 130 carries a flavourant. Formation of condensation on said condensation surface 130 is effective to moisten the condensation surface, the resulting increase in moisture at the condensation surface being effective to release flavourant from the condensation surface 130 for entrainment in fluid being drawn across the condensation surface 130 towards the outlet 108. The flavourant may, for example, be comprised in a coating on at least a region of the condensation surface 130. Additionally or alternatively, the condensation surface 130 may be formed of a porous material, with the flavourant carried in the pores of the material.

[0066] In embodiments in which the e-liquid 104 contains an inherent flavourant, it will be appreciated that the release of flavourant from the condensation surface 130 in the manner noted above will serve to supplement, and optionally blend with, the flavourant of the e-liquid 104 in use. For example, the flavourant of the condensation surface 130 may have the same flavour as that in the e-liquid 104 in order to supplement the flavour provided within the e-liquid 104 and thereby provide the user with an intensified flavour sensation. Alternatively, the flavourant 130 of the source may be complementary to that in the e-liquid 104 (i.e. the flavours/aromas of the two flavourants, when mixed, provide a pleasing sensory combination to a user). Providing the flavourant 130 separately from the aerosol precursor 104 affords the user an opportunity to select from or change between different flavourants 130 without necessitating a change of e-liquid, for example during a vaping session.

[0067] The condensation which forms on the condensation surface 130 may, for example, release flavourant by dissolution of the flavourant itself, or by dissolution of an encapsulating material or coating.

[0068] Figures 4-13 illustrate exemplary configurations of the condensation surface 130. As illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the condensation surface 130a may form part of the inner surface of a fluid passage 106 in a region having substantially parallel walls. The condensation surface 130a in such an arrangement may therefore form at least part of the peripheral wall of the passage 106. While the passage 106 is shown in Figure 5 as being circular in transverse cross-section, this is for illustrative purposes only, and it is to be understood that alternative cross-sectional shapes for the passage 106 are also possible.

[0069] In an alternative arrangement, it is envisaged that the condensation surface 130 may form part of the inner surface of a fluid passage 106 along a region of the passage not having substantially parallel walls. For example, the fluid passage 106 may be tapered so as to widen or narrow in the region comprising the condensation surface 130.

[0070] Further, as illustrated in Figure 6, at least a part of the peripheral wall of the passage 106 may have a corrugated or ridged structure, wherein a series of ridges 131 are formed along the peripheral walls of the passage and generally perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow along the passage 106. Alternatively, said ridges 131 could be arranged in a different orientation (e.g. generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow along passage 106). Said ridges 131 form at least part of the condensation surface 130b.

[0071] Further, as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the condensation surface 130c may be formed as one or more fins or projections 132 extending inwardly into the passage 106 from the peripheral sidewall of the passage. The angle of the fins or projections 132 to the passage 106, and the number of fins 132 forming the condensation surface 130c shown in Figure 7 is illustrative, and not to be understood as limiting. For example, the fins or projections 132 may instead be arranged such that the condensation surface 130c is substantially parallel to the direction of fluid flow along the passage 106. There may be more or fewer fins or projections 132 than illustrated in Figure 7. The fins or projections 132 may be arranged at respectively different angles to the passage 106, rather than all having the same orientation, as shown for example in Figure 8. The condensation surface may be located (i.e. flavourant may be carried) on one or both sides of each fin or projection.

[0072] Further, the condensation surface 130d may be formed by one or more components 133 mounted within the passage 106 rather than forming the peripheral wall of the passage. For example, the condensation surface may be one or more surfaces arranged generally parallel to the direction of flow along the fluid passage 106, as shown in Figure 9. Such surfaces may have gaps or holes therethrough to allow mixing of the aerosol between the different sides of the surfaces.

[0073] Further, a component 134 may be mounted so as to divide the passage 106 into two discrete regions comprising an inner passage region 106a and an outer passage region 106b. The component surfaces may have gaps or holes therethrough to allow mixing of the aerosol between the different sides of the surfaces. The cross-sectional shape of the component may be substantially the same as that of the passage 106, an example of which is shown in Figure 10 which illustrates the component 134a and the passage 106 both being substantially circular in cross section. Alternatively, the cross sectional shape of the component 134b may be different to the cross sectional shape of the passage 106, as shown for example in Figure 11. In such a configuration, the condensation surface 130, and hence the flavourant, may be carried on one or both of the inner 130f, 130h and outer 130e, 130g surfaces of the component.

[0074] Further, a plurality of discrete condensation surfaces 130i may be defined within a plug 135 having a plurality of smaller passages or bores 106c extending therethrough, as illustrated in Figures 12 and 13. Said plug 135 may extend partially across the passage 106 (e.g. leaving a space between its peripheral surface and the peripheral wall of the passage 106), or may extend substantially fully across the passage 106 (i.e. such that passage 106 is fully closed except for the smaller passages 106c). The passages or bores 106c formed through the plug 135 may be oriented so as to be substantially parallel to the outer passage 106, at least in the region of the passage 106 having the plug 135. Alternatively, for example, the passages or bores 106c formed through the plug 135 could follow a serpentine or helical path along the direction of fluid flow from the aerosol generator to the outlet 108 through plug 135, to thereby increase the passage length between the aerosol generator and the outlet 108.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, part of the passage 106 may also be shaped to increase the passage length between the aerosol generator and the outlet 108, for example by having a serpentine or helical configuration.

[0076] The condensation surface 130 in any of the foregoing exemplary arrangements may be textured to increase the surface area available for condensation formation.

[0077] The condensation surface 130 may be partially or substantially formed from metal. The condensation surface 130 may be partially or substantially formed from one or more plastic materials. The condensation surface 130 may be formed from a material or coated with a material such that the condensation surface 130 has a surface energy suitable to promote wetting of the surface by condensation that forms thereupon. For example, the surface energy of the condensation surface 130 may be configured such that a thin film of condensation forms rather than larger droplets, ensuring that the flavourant can be more readily entrained in airflow past the condensation surface 130.

[0078] The condensation surface 130 may be arranged so as to be substantially thermally isolated from the filament 111. Similarly, or additionally, the condensation surface 130 may be arranged so as to be substantially thermally isolated from a mouthpiece 109. This arrangement may avoid a situation where heat conducted from the filament 111 or mouthpiece 109 to the condensation surface prevents or restricts the formation of condensation on the condensation surface 130.

[0079] The condensation surface 130 may be comprised within a replaceable or consumable part of the smoking substitute system 101. This consumable may be an e-cigarette consumable (or "pod") 103. The flavourant could be applied to the condensation surface 130 during manufacture of the consumable, for example by spray-coating or dip-coating.

[0080] Alternatively, the condensation surface 130 may be comprised within a "stand-alone" consumable, which is itself separable from both the main body 102 and e-cigarette consumable 103. This may, for example, allow a user easily to interchange the flavourant during a vaping session. A consumable of this type may be at least partially received in the passage 106 of a "pod" 103, such that there is an interference fit between the consumable comprising the condensation surface 130 and the passage 106 of the "pod" 103. Alternatively, the consumable comprising a condensation surface 130 and the "pod" 103 may be physically coupled together by screwing one onto the other, or through a bayonet fitting.

[0081] Either the "pod" 103 or the "stand-alone" consumable may be provided in a retail pack comprising one or more consumables. The pack may comprise consumables, each with a condensation surface 130 having the same flavourant. Alternatively, the pack may comprise consumables, each with a condensation surface 130 having a different flavourant to provide a selection to the user.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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%.

[0088] 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.

Claims

1. A smoking substitute device (103) having an aerosol generator and a fluid outlet (108),
the aerosol generator comprising a heater (111) operable to generate an aerosol vapour from an aerosol precursor (104) and being arranged in fluid communication with said fluid outlet (108) such that a user may draw fluid including an aerosol generated by the aerosol generator towards the fluid outlet;
the smoking substitute device (103) being characterized in that:

a condensation surface (130) is arranged between the aerosol generator and the fluid outlet (108), the condensation surface (130) being arranged for flow of said aerosol thereacross and being configured such that aerosol drawn from the aerosol generator towards the fluid outlet (108) forms condensation on said condensation surface (130);

a region of said condensation surface (130) carrying a flavourant comprising one or more substances effective to activate at least one of:

an olfactory receptor in a human nasal cavity; and

a taste receptor in a human oral cavity; and wherein

the formation of condensation on said condensation surface (130) is effective to release flavourant from the condensation surface for entrainment in fluid being drawn across the condensation surface towards the fluid outlet (108).

2. A smoking substitute device (103) according to claim 1, wherein
the flavourant is provided as a coating applied to a region of the condensation surface (130).

3. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein
at least a region of the condensation surface (130) defines part of a fluid passage (106) between the aerosol generator and the fluid outlet.

4. A smoking substitute device (103) according to claim 3, wherein
at least a region of the condensation surface (130) defines at least part of a peripheral wall of said fluid passage (106).

5. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
the condensation surface (130) is substantially thermally isolated from the heater.

6. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
at least part of the condensation surface (130) is formed of metal.

7. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
at least part of the condensation surface (130) is formed of plastic material.

8. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
the condensation surface (130) is comprised within a removable component of the smoking substitute device (103).

9. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
the condensation surface (130) is comprised within a replaceable component of the smoking substitute device (103).

10. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
the condensation surface (130) is comprised within a consumable component of the smoking substitute device (103).

11. A smoking substitute system (101) comprising
the smoking substitute device (103) of any one of the preceding claims; and
a reusable part (102) comprising a power source for the aerosol generator.

12. A smoking substitute system (101) according to claim 11, wherein
the smoking substitute device (103) is a removable component of the smoking substitute system (101).

13. A smoking substitute system (101) according to claim 12, wherein
the smoking substitute device (103) is a replaceable component of the smoking substitute system (101).

14. A smoking substitute system (101) according to claim 13, wherein
the smoking substitute device (103) is a consumable component of the smoking substitute system (101).

15. A smoking substitute device (103) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
the aerosol precursor (104) is substantially free of flavourant.

Drawing