SMOKING SUBSTITUTE SYSTEM

Abstract

 A heat not burn device including a heater (204) for penetrating a portion of a heat not burn consumable (202) engaged with the device is disclosed. The heater includes an electrically conductive heating track (250). Further, the heater includes an electrically conductive temperature sensing track (260) such that the temperature sensing track has a serpentine section (261) extending along a major axis of the heater. The heater comprising a temperature sensing track may facilitate accurate measurement of temperature during heating of an HNB consumable.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a smoking substitute system and particularly, although not exclusively, to a smoking substitute system comprising a device having a heater and an aerosol-forming article].

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 heat not burn device including a heater to heat a heat not burn consumable.

[0017] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a heat not burn device including a heater, for penetrating a portion of a heat not burn consumable engaged with the device. The heater includes an electrically conductive heating track. Further, the heater includes an electrically conductive temperature sensing track such that the temperature sensing track has a serpentine section extending along a major axis of the heater.

[0018] By providing a heat not burn device comprising a heater with a fabricated electrically conductive temperature sensing track, it may facilitate accurate measurement of temperature during heating of an HNB consumable.

[0019] Optional features will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.

[0020] Optionally, the serpentine section may be between 20%-80% of a length of a heating zone of the heater. The serpentine section between 20%-80% of a length of the heating zone may facilitate larger surface area to detect the measurement of temperature.

[0021] Advantageously, the serpentine section may comprise at least one turn of the temperature sensing track of a first sense and at least one turn of a second sense, such that each turn includes an apex

[0022] Optionally, the serpentine section may comprise at least two turns of the first sense and second sense. This configuration may provide required surface area within a definite section of the length to conduct the heat within the heater.

[0023] Optionally, the apexes of adjacent turns of first sense and second sense may be separated by at least 1 mm. This configuration allows heat transfer within the heater in short period of time.

[0024] Optionally, the serpentine section may comprise a first line defined by joining apexes of the first sense, such that the apexes of first sense may be aligned along a longitudinal direction of the heater. The apexes of first sense aligned along the longitudinal direction of the heater provides uniform heat transfer within the heater thereby allowing uniform heating of the heater

[0025] Optionally, the serpentine section may comprise a second line defined by joining the apexes of the second sense, when the apexes of second sense may be aligned along the longitudinal direction of the heater. The apexes of second sense aligned along the longitudinal direction of the heater provides uniform heat transfer within the heater thereby allowing uniform heating of the heater.

[0026] Conveniently, the first and second lines may be parallel. The parallel configuration allows simultaneous heat transfer in the first sense and the second sense.

[0027] Optionally, the temperature sensing track may comprise a straight section which may be parallel to the first or second lines. The straight section provides the structural integrity and thermal conduction of the heater.

[0028] Optionally, the straight section and the the serpentine section forms at least one of a forward path of the electrically conductive temperature sensing track and a return path of the electrically conductive temperature sensing track. This configuration may allow effective heat transfer from one section to another section.

[0029] Optionally, the temperature sensing track may have configuration of at least one of a sawtooth profile, a sinusoidal profile, a triangle wave and a square-wave profile. This configuration may provide structural integrity with larger surface area thereby providing effective heat transfer in the heater.

[0030] The device may comprise an elongate body. An end of the elongate body may be configured for engagement with an aerosol-forming article (e.g. a heated tobacco (HT) 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).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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. 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).

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] The device may comprise a user interface (UI). 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.

[0047] 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. 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.

[0048] 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).

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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 UI. 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.

[0053] 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 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.

[0054] Where the device comprises a sensor (e.g. a puff/airflow 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.

[0055] The device may comprise a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly (e.g. via Bluetooth (e.g. a Bluetooth low-energy connection) or WiFi) 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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 HNB consumable. The HNB consumable may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate at an upstream end of the HNB consumable. The HNB consumable 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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

[0063] (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 (Mullein), Zamia latifolia (Maconha Brava) together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and/or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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.

[0067] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more additives selected from humectants, flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and binders.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using the system according to the system for smoking substitute device, the method comprising inserting the HNB consumable into the device; and heating the HNB consumable using the heater of the device.

[0076] In some embodiments the method may comprise inserting the HNB consumable into a cavity within a body of the device and penetrating the HNB consumable with the heating element of the device upon insertion of the HNB consumable.

[0077] The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.

[0078] 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

[0079] 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 smoking substitute system; and

Figure 2F is a sectional view of a heater of the smoking substitute system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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).

[0082] In the illustrated system, the heater (104) forms part of the consumable (102) and is configured to heat the aerosol former (103). 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.

[0083] 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).

[0084] 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).

[0085] In some embodiments, the connector (106) may be used to charge and recharge the power source (105) where the power source (104) includes a rechargeable battery.

[0086] The system (100) also comprises a user interface (UI) (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, etc.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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 (105) 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).

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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 consumable (102), rather than the device (101). 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).

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] The device (201) comprises a body (209) and cap (210). In use the cap (209) 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).

[0095] 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).

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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).

[0101] 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 (214) has a larger diameter (3 mm) than the terminal filter element (214).

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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 protrudes also 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 to cover the end of the device (201).

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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).

[0107] 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 2E, 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).

[0108] 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).

[0109] Referring to Figure 2F, which shows a schematic sectional view of the heater (204) of the heat not burn device (201). The heater (204) may be configured to penetrate the tobacco portion of the HNB consumable (202). As described above the heater (204) may be a tube heater. The heater may be of a circular cross section and includes a base (302) and distal end (303). Base portion (302) or base of the heater (204) may be fixedly or removably positioned inside the body 209 [as shown in Figure. 2E] of the heat not burn device (201). In an embodiment, the base 302 of the rod may be positioned in a slot defined in the body (209) of the heat not burn smoking device (201). The heater (204) includes a heating element (223), and the heating element may be an electrically conductive heating track (250). The heater (204) further includes an electrically conductive temperature sensing track (260). The temperature sensing track (260) has a serpentine section (261) that may extend along a major axis of the heater (204). In certain embodiment, the serpentine section (261) may extend along the longitudinal axis of the device (201). The electrically conductive heating track (250) and temperature sensing track (260) are disposed within the heater (204), such that the temperature sensing track (260) is interposed between the electrically conductive heating track (250).

[0110] Further, as illustrated in figure 2F, the serpentine section (261) may be greater than 20 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204). The serpentine section (261) may be at least 20 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204). In another embodiments, the serpentine section (261) may be at least 30 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204). In another embodiments, the serpentine section (261) may be at least 40 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204). In yet another embodiment, the serpentine section (261) may be at least 50 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204). In other embodiments, the serpentine section (261) may be at least 60 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204). Optionally, the serpentine section (261) may be at least 70 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204). Preferably, the serpentine section (261) may be at least 80 % of the length of the heating zone (251) of the heater (204).

[0111] For example, considering the total length of the heater rod (204) may be between 15 mm and 25 mm long and may have a diameter of between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm. Further, the heating zone (251) of the heater (204) may extend to a length of 14.5 mm.

[0112] The serpentine section (261) may comprise at least one turn of the temperature sensing track (260) of a first sense 262 and at least one turn of a second sense (264), such that each turn includes an apex 265. In an embodiment, the first sense 262 may be defined as a crest and the second sense 264 may be define by a trough each having the apex 265. The serpentine section (261) may include at least two turns of the first sense 262 and the second sense 264. Further, the apexes (265) of the each of the first sense 262 and the second sense 264 may be placed in a spaced apart configuration. In an embodiment, the apexes (265) of the adjacent turns of the first sense 262 and the second sense 264 may be separated by at least 1 mm. In respect of this, the apex (265) of the first sense 262 and the apex (265) of the second sense are placed at a distance of at least 1mm.

[0113] As evident from Figure. 2F, the first line 266 may be formed by joining the apexes (265) of the first sense 262 configured on the temperature sensing track (260) such that the apexes (265) pf the first sense 262 may be aligned along a longitudinal direction of the heater (204) (i.e., along the major axis of the heater). Similarly, a second line 267 may be formed by joining (261) the apexes (265) of the second sense 264 configured on the temperature sensing track (260) such that the apexes (265) of the second sense 264 may be aligned along a longitudinal direction of the heater (204) (i.e. along the major axis of the heater). In another embodiments, the apex (265) of the first sense (262) may abut the electrically conductive hearting track (250), such that the first line 266 may be formed by abutting the electrically conductive heating track (250). In another embodiments, the apex (265) of the second sense (264) may be away from the heating track (250), such that the second line (266) maybe formed opposite to the first line (266) abutting the electrically conductive heating track (250). Further, the first line (266) and the second line (267) are configured parallel to each other.

[0114] The temperature sensing track (260) further includes a straight section 268 parallel to the first line 266 and the second line (267). The straight section (268) may form a forward path of the electrically temperature sensing track (260), and the serpentine section (261) may form a return path of the electrically temperature sensing track (260) and vice -versa. The heating of the sensor track (260) may be achieved by the supplying power to the heater (204) by connecting at least one heating electrode and sensor electrode to the power source via a plurality of connecting wires (269). The temperature sensing track (260) having the serpentine section (261) may be a dimensioned senor for accurate measurement of temperature of the heater (204). In respect of this, the heater (204) yields higher impedances. In an embodiment, the impedances maybe above 5 Ohms. The sensing element has an impedance in excess of 5 Ohms and a temperature coefficient in excess of 2000 ppm per degree Celsius. In order to increase the impedance of the sensing element it is made into a serpentine shape. This way the length of the sensing material is increased thus increasing the impedance. Further, the temperature sensing track (260) may have a configuration of at least one of sawtooth profile, a sinusoidal profile, a triangle wave or a square wave profile.

[0115] The device (202) 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).

[0116] The device (202) 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).

[0117] The device (202) 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).

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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).

[0120] The device (202) 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).

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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%.

[0127] 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 heat not burn device (201) including:

a heater (204) for penetrating a portion of a heat not burn consumable (202) engaged with the device (201);

wherein the heater (204) includes:

an electrically conductive heating track (250); and

an electrically conductive temperature sensing track (260), wherein the temperature sensing track (260) has a serpentine section (261) extending along a major axis of the heater (204).

2. The heat not burn device (201) according to claim 1, wherein the serpentine section (261) is at least 20%-80% of a length of a heating zone (251) of the heater (204).

3. The heat not burn device (201) according to at least of the preceding claims, wherein the serpentine section (261) comprises at least one turn of the temperature sensing track (260) of a first sense (262) and at least one turn of a second sense (264), wherein each turn includes an apex ((265)).

4. The heat not burn device (201) according to claim 3, wherein the serpentine section (261) comprises at least two turns of each of the first sense (262) and the second sense (264).

5. The heat not burn device (201) according to claim 3 and/or 4, wherein the apexes (265) of adjacent turns of first sense (262) and second sense (264) are separated by at least 1 mm.

6. The heat not burn device (201) according to at least of claims 3 to 5, wherein the serpentine section (261) comprises a first line (266) defined by joining apexes (265) of the first sense (262), wherein the apexes of first sense (262) are aligned along a longitudinal direction of the heater (204).

7. The heat not burn device (201) according to at least of claims 3 to 6, wherein the serpentine section (261) comprises a second line (267) defined by joining the apexes (265) of the second sense (264), wherein the apexes of second sense (264) are aligned along the longitudinal direction of the heater (204).

8. The heat not burn device (201) according to claim 7, wherein the first and second lines (266, 267) are parallel.

9. The heat not burn device (201) according to at least of the preceding claims, wherein the temperature sensing track (260) comprises a straight section (268) parallel to the first (266) or second lines (267).

10. The heat not burn device (201) according to claim 9, wherein the straight section (268) and the the serpentine section (261) forms at least one of a forward path of the electrically conductive temperature sensing track (260) and a return path of the electrically conductive temperature sensing track (260).

11. The heat not burn device (201) according to at least of the preceding claims, wherein the temperature sensing track (260) has configuration of at least one of a sawtooth profile, a sinusoidal profile, a triangle wave or a square-wave profile.

12. A smoking substitute system comprising:

a heat not burn device according to any one of the preceding claims; and

an aerosol-forming article.

13. The smoking substitute system according to claim 12, wherein the article is a heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable.

14. A method of using the system according to claim 12 and/or 13, the method comprising:

inserting the heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable into the device; and

heating the heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable using the heating element.

15. A method according to claim 14, further comprising inserting the article into a cavity within a body of the device and penetrating the heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable with the heating element upon insertion of the heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable.

Drawing