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

A first aspect of the present invention provides a method of assembling an apparatus for heating aerosolisable material to volatilise at least one component of the aerosolisable material to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the apparatus having a first proximal end and a second distal end. The method comprises: providing a first chassis for supporting a heating arrangement for receiving and heating aerosolisable material, the first chassis or a component supported by the first chassis comprising a first engagement element; providing a first sleeve to form at least a part of a casing of the apparatus, the first sleeve comprising a second engagement element; and inserting the first chassis into a cavity of the first sleeve to cause automatic engagement of the first engagement element and the second engagement element during assembly of the apparatus.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inserting causes engagement of the first chassis and the first sleeve or a component supported by the first chassis and the first sleeve via a first snap-fit arrangement comprising the first engagement element and the second engagement element.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inserting comprises inserting the first chassis towards an end stop of the first sleeve for blocking movement of the first chassis relative to the first sleeve by the end stop.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises blocking movement of the first chassis relative to the first sleeve by the end stop. In an exemplary embodiment, the blocking movement comprises blocking movement of the first chassis relative to the first sleeve in a first direction opposite a second direction along which the first chassis is inserted into the cavity.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first snap-fit arrangement comprises the end stop.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first engagement element is a protrusion of the first chassis or the component support by the first chassis and the second engagement element is a receiving portion of the first sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving portion comprises the end stop, and the engagement comprises inserting the protrusion into the receiving portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion is a clip.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first snap-fit arrangement exists at the second distal end.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of inserting the first chassis into the cavity comprises abutting the first sleeve and the first chassis by the end stop at the second distal end of the apparatus.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first sleeve is for engaging with a second sleeve for combination to form a casing of the apparatus.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first proximal end is an end of the apparatus for receiving aerosolisable material and the second distal end is the end of the apparatus towards which the aerosolisable material is inserted.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second distal end is an end opposite an opening for inserting aerosolisable material into a heating chamber of the heating arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises: providing a second chassis comprising a first zone for occupancy by a power source; and engaging the second chassis and the first chassis using a third engagement element of the first chassis and a fourth engagement element of the second chassis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the providing the second chassis comprises providing a second chassis comprising the first engagement element, and wherein the step of inserting the first chassis into the cavity of the first sleeve is after the step of engaging the second chassis and the first chassis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the engaging the second chassis and the first chassis comprises engaging using a second snap-fit arrangement comprising the third engagement element and the fourth engagement element. In an exemplary embodiment, the engaging the second chassis and the first chassis comprises inserting the second chassis into the cavity of the first sleeve before engaging the second chassis and the first chassis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second chassis and first chassis are engaged at the second distal end of the apparatus.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second snap-fit arrangement exists at the second distal end.

In an exemplary embodiment, the snap-fit arrangement provides for localised flexing of at least one engageable part and momentarily distort the at least one engageable part.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of inserting the first chassis into the cavity of the first sleeve is before the step of engaging the second chassis to the first chassis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first chassis comprises a second zone for occupancy by at least one printed circuit board (PCB), and wherein the step of engaging the second chassis and the first chassis comprises surrounding, by the first sleeve, the second zone and only a portion of the first zone. In an exemplary embodiment, the second zone is for occupancy by a plurality of PCBs. In an exemplary embodiment, the PCBs are of substantially equal length.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of surrounding, by the first sleeve, comprises surrounding, by the first sleeve, an entire length of the second zone.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises providing a second sleeve of the casing; and engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve using a fifth engagement element of the first sleeve and a sixth engagement element of the second sleeve.

In an exemplary embodiment, the engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve using a third snap-fit arrangement comprising the third engagement element and the fourth engagement element. In an exemplary embodiment, the first sleeve and second sleeve form a casing of the apparatus.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first to third snap-fit arrangements are different to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the difference between the first to third snap-fit arrangements is a difference in geometry. In an exemplary embodiment, the difference between the first to third snap-fit arrangements is a difference in freedom of movement between engaged parts. In an exemplary embodiment, the difference between the first to third snap-fit arrangements is a difference in structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the difference between the first to third snap-fit arrangements is a difference in a number of engaging portions. In an exemplary embodiment, the third snap-fit arrangement may comprise three or more engaging portions. In an exemplary embodiment, the second snap-fit arrangement may comprise a plurality of engaging portions. In an exemplary embodiment, the first snap-fit arrangement may comprise a single engaging portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the third snap-fit arrangement may comprise at least one more engaging portion than the second snap-fit arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises surrounding, by each of the second sleeve and the first sleeve, at least a portion of the first zone. In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises surrounding, by each of the second sleeve and first sleeve, at least a portion of a power source within the power source compartment.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises restricting bi-directional movement of the first sleeve with respect to the first chassis, wherein the bi-directional movement is along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of a heating chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises progressive engagement. In an exemplary embodiment, the progressive engagement comprises intermittently engaging and disengaging the first sleeve and the second sleeve in a number of fixed steps. In an exemplary embodiment, the number of fixed steps of the intermittently engaging and disengaging corresponds to a number of engaging portions of the third snap-fit arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises inserting the engaged first and second chassis into the second sleeve before engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises causing a user-operated button to align with a hole in the second sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises covering the user-operated button by the second sleeve until the user-operated button aligns with the hole in the second sleeve.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of engaging the second sleeve and the first sleeve comprises surrounding, by the second sleeve, a portion of a heating chamber of the heating arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of surrounding, by the second sleeve, comprises surrounding, by the second sleeve, only a portion of the heating chamber.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of surrounding, by the second sleeve, comprises surrounding by the second sleeve, an expansion chamber of the heating arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of surrounding, by the second sleeve, comprises surrounding a portion of the heating chamber by a thermal liner of the second sleeve, wherein the thermal liner has a different heat conductivity to the heat conductivity of the second sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, comprising engaging the thermal liner and an interior of the second sleeve.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step of surrounding, by the second sleeve, comprises surrounding an expansion chamber of the heating arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second chassis comprises a pair of arms defining a third zone for occupancy by a support tube of the heating arrangement, wherein the step of engaging the first chassis and the second chassis comprises guiding the pair of arms around the support tube.

In an exemplary embodiment, the third snap-fit arrangement comprises cooperative engagement of a perimeter of the first sleeve and a perimeter of the second sleeve.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises fastening the second sleeve to the second chassis using a fastener. In an exemplary embodiment, the step of fastening comprises engaging the fastener with a threaded portion of the second chassis. In an exemplary embodiment, the step of fastening comprises inserting the fastener first through the second sleeve and then the second chassis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the aerosolisable material comprises tobacco and/or is reconstituted and/or is in the form of a gel and/or comprises an amorphous solid.

A second aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for heating aerosolisable material to volatilise at least one component of the aerosolisable material to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the apparatus having a first proximal end and a second distal end. the apparatus comprises: a first chassis for supporting a heating arrangement for receiving and heating aerosolisable material, the first chassis or a component supported by the first chassis comprising a first engagement element; and a first sleeve to form at least a part of the casing of the apparatus, the first sleeve comprising a second engagement element; wherein the first engagement element and second engagement element are arranged to automatically engage when the first chassis is inserted into a cavity of the first sleeve during assembly of the apparatus.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first sleeve comprises an end stop towards which the first chassis can be inserted such that movement of the first chassis relative to the first sleeve is configured to be blocked by the end stop.

In an exemplary embodiment, the end stop is provided at a distal end of the first sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal end of the first sleeve corresponds to the second distal end of the apparatus.

In an exemplary embodiment, the end stop is configured to block movement of the first chassis relative to the first sleeve in a first direction opposite a second direction along which the first chassis is inserted into the cavity.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first engagement element and the second engagement element form a first snap-fit arrangement for engagement of the first chassis and the first sleeve or the component supported by the first chassis and the first sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the first snap-fit arrangement comprises the end stop.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first engagement element is a protrusion of the first chassis or the component support by the first chassis and the second engagement element is a receiving portion of the first sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving portion comprises the end stop. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion is a clip.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a second chassis engageable with the first chassis using a third engagement element of the first chassis and a fourth engagement element of the second chassis. In an exemplary embodiment, the second chassis comprises the first engagement element. In an exemplary embodiment, the second chassis is engageable with the first chassis using a second snap-fit arrangement comprising the third engagement element and the fourth engagement element. In an exemplary embodiment, the snap-fit arrangement provides for localised flexing of at least one engageable part and momentarily distort the at least one engageable part.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a second sleeve, such that when the second sleeve and first sleeve are engaged, each of the second sleeve and the first sleeve surrounds at least a portion of a first zone of the second chassis for occupancy by a power source.

In an exemplary embodiment, the heating arrangement comprises a heating chamber and each of the second sleeve and first sleeve surround a portion of the heating chamber.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second sleeve is engageable with the second chassis by a fastener, wherein the fastener is to first insert through the second sleeve and then the second chassis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second sleeve comprises an opening for receiving aerosolisable material and a hole for alignment with a user-operated button.

As used herein, the term "aerosolisable material" includes materials that provide volatilised components upon heating, typically in the form of vapour or an aerosol. "Aerosolisable material" may be a non-tobacco-containing material or a tobacco-containing material. "Aerosolisable material" may, for example, include one or more of tobacco per se, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenised tobacco or tobacco substitutes. The aerosolisable material can be in the form of ground tobacco, cut rag tobacco, extruded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, reconstituted aerosolisable material, liquid, gel, amorphous solid, gelled sheet, powder, or agglomerates, or the like. "Aerosolisable material" also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. "Aerosolisable material" may comprise one or more humectants, such as glycerol or propylene glycol. The term "aerosol generating material" may also be used herein interchangeably with the term "aerosolisable material".

As noted above, the aerosolisable material may comprise an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e. non-fibrous), or as a "dried gel". The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some cases, the aerosolisable material comprises from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid. In some cases, the aerosolisable material consists of amorphous solid.

As used herein, the term "sheet" denotes an element having a width and length substantially greater than a thickness thereof. The sheet may be a strip, for example.

As used herein, the term "heating material" or "heater material", in some examples, refers to material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, for example when the aerosolisable material is heated by an inductive heating arrangement.

Other forms of heating a heating material include resistive heating which involves electrically resistive heating elements that heat up when an electric current is applied to the electrically resistive heating element, thus transferring heat by conduction to the heating material.

Referring to <FIG>, there is shown a schematic perspective view of an apparatus <NUM> according to an embodiment of the invention. The apparatus <NUM> is for heating aerosolisable material to volatilise at least one component of the aerosolisable material to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user. In this embodiment, the aerosolisable material comprises tobacco, and the apparatus <NUM> is a tobacco heating product (also known in the art as a tobacco heating device or a heat-not-bum device). The apparatus <NUM> is a handheld device for inhalation of the aerosolisable material by the user of the handheld device.

The apparatus <NUM> comprises a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>, opposite the first end <NUM>. The first end <NUM> is sometimes referred to herein as the mouth end or proximal end of the apparatus <NUM>. The second end <NUM> is sometimes referred to herein as the distal end of the apparatus <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> has an on/off button <NUM> to allow the apparatus <NUM>, as a whole, to be switched on and off as desired by a user of the apparatus <NUM>.

In broad outline, the apparatus <NUM> is configured to generate an aerosol to be inhaled by a user by heating an aerosol generating material. In use, a user inserts an article <NUM> into the apparatus <NUM> and activates the apparatus <NUM>, e.g. using the button <NUM>, to cause the apparatus <NUM> to begin heating the aerosol generating material. The user subsequently draws on a mouthpiece 21b of the article <NUM> near the first end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> to inhale an aerosol generated by the apparatus <NUM>. As a user draws on the article <NUM>, generated aerosol flows through the apparatus <NUM> along a flow path towards the proximal end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>.

In examples a vapour is produced that then at least partly condenses to form an aerosol before exiting the apparatus <NUM> to be inhaled by the user.

In this respect, first it may be noted that, in general, a vapour is a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature, which means that for example the vapour can be condensed to a liquid by increasing its pressure without reducing the temperature. On the other hand, in general, an aerosol is a colloid of fine solid particles or liquid droplets, in air or another gas. A "colloid" is a substance in which microscopically dispersed insoluble particles are suspended throughout another substance.

For reasons of convenience, as used herein the term aerosol should be taken as meaning an aerosol, a vapour or a combination of an aerosol and vapour.

The apparatus <NUM> comprises a casing <NUM> for locating and protecting various internal components of the apparatus <NUM>. The casing <NUM> is therefore an external housing for housing the internal components. In the embodiment shown, the casing <NUM> comprises a sleeve <NUM> that encompasses a perimeter of the apparatus <NUM>, capped with a top panel <NUM>, at the first end <NUM>, which defines generally the 'top' of the apparatus <NUM> and a bottom panel <NUM>, at the second end <NUM> (see <FIG>), which defines generally the 'bottom' of the apparatus <NUM>.

The sleeve <NUM> comprises a second sleeve 11a and a first sleeve 11b. The second sleeve <NUM>1a is provided at a top portion of the apparatus <NUM>, shown as an upper portion of the apparatus <NUM>, and extends away from the first end <NUM>. The first sleeve 11b is provided at a bottom portion of the apparatus <NUM>, shown as a lower portion of the apparatus <NUM>, and extends away from the second end <NUM>. The second sleeve 11a and first sleeve <NUM>1b each encompass a perimeter of the apparatus <NUM>. That is, the apparatus <NUM> comprises a longitudinal axis in a Y-axis direction, and the second sleeve 11a and the first sleeve 11b each surround the internal components in a direction radial to the longitudinal axis.

In this embodiment, the second sleeve 11a and a first sleeve <NUM>1b are removably engaged with each other. In this embodiment, the second sleeve 11a is engaged with the first sleeve 11b in a snap-fit arrangement comprising recesses.

In some embodiments, the top panel <NUM> and/or the bottom panel <NUM> may be removably fixed to the corresponding first and second sleeves 11b, 11a, respectively, to permit easy access to the interior of the apparatus <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sleeve <NUM> may be "permanently" fixed to the top panel <NUM> and/or the bottom panel <NUM>, for example to deter a user from accessing the interior of the apparatus <NUM>. In one embodiment, the panels <NUM> and <NUM> are made of a plastics material, including for example glass-filled nylon formed by injection moulding, and the sleeve <NUM> is made of aluminium, though other materials and other manufacturing processes may be used.

The top panel <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> has an opening <NUM> at the mouth end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> through which, in use, the consumable article <NUM> containing aerosolisable material is inserted into the apparatus <NUM> and removed from the apparatus <NUM> by a user. In this embodiment, the consumable article <NUM> acts as the mouthpiece for the user to place between lips of the user. In other embodiments, an external mouthpiece may be provided wherein at least one volatilised component of the aerosolisable material is drawn through the mouthpiece. When an external mouthpiece is used, the aerosolisable material is not provided in the external mouthpiece.

The opening <NUM> in this embodiment is opened and closed by a door <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the door <NUM> is movable between a closed position and an open position to allow for insertion of the consumable article <NUM> into the apparatus <NUM> when in the open position. The door <NUM> is configured to move bi-directionally along an X-axis direction.

A connection port <NUM> is shown at the second end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The connection port <NUM> is for connection to a cable and a power source <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) for charging the power source <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The connection port <NUM> extends in a Z-axis direction from a front side of the apparatus <NUM> to a rear side of the apparatus <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the connection port <NUM> is accessible on a right-side of the apparatus <NUM> at the second end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. Advantageously, the apparatus <NUM> may stand on the second end <NUM> whilst charging or to provide a data connection through the connection port <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the connection port <NUM> is a USB socket.

Referring to <FIG>, the second sleeve 11a comprises a surface at the first end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> that is tapered. The tapered surface comprises a first angle α with respect to a surface of the first sleeve 11b at the second end <NUM>. In this embodiment, the surface of the first sleeve <NUM>1b at the second end <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-axis direction. Therefore, as shown, the consumable article <NUM> is insertable through the opening <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) at a proximal portion of the first end <NUM>. Where the second sleeve 11a and first sleeve 11b meet at a join 11c, a second angle β with respect to the X-axis direction is formed. The second angle β is shown to be greater than the first angle a.

<FIG> and <FIG> respectively show a right-side and left-side of the apparatus <NUM>. Here, the consumable article <NUM> is shown in a laterally central location. This is because the opening <NUM> through which the consumable article <NUM> is inserted is positioned at a mid-way point of the apparatus along the and Z-axis direction and off-centre in the X-axis direction.

<FIG> and <FIG> show schematic front cross-sectional views of the apparatus <NUM> with the consumable article inserted and withdrawn, respectively through line A-A of the apparatus <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, the casing <NUM> has located or fixed therein a heater arrangement <NUM>, control circuitry <NUM> and the power source <NUM>. In this embodiment, the control circuitry <NUM> is part of an electronics compartment and comprises two printed circuit boards (PCBs) 25a, 25b. In this embodiment, the control circuitry <NUM> and the power source <NUM> are laterally adjacent to the heater arrangement <NUM> (that is, adjacent when viewed from an end), with the control circuitry <NUM> being located below the power source <NUM>. Advantageously, this provides allows the apparatus <NUM> to be compact in a lateral direction, corresponding to the X-axis direction.

The control circuitry <NUM> in this embodiment includes a controller, such as a microprocessor arrangement, configured and arranged to control the heating of the aerosolisable material in the consumable article <NUM>, as discussed further below.

The power source <NUM> in this embodiment is a rechargeable battery. In other embodiments, a non-rechargeable battery, a capacitor, a battery-capacitor hybrid, or a connection to a mains electricity supply may be used. Examples of suitable batteries include for example a lithium-ion battery, a nickel battery (such as a nickel-cadmium battery), an alkaline battery and/ or the like. The battery <NUM> is electrically coupled to the heater arrangement <NUM> to supply electrical power when required and under control of the control circuitry <NUM> to heat the aerosolisable material in the consumable (as discussed, to volatilise the aerosolisable material without causing the aerosolisable material to bum).

An advantage of locating the power source <NUM> laterally adjacent to the heater arrangement <NUM> is that a physically large power source <NUM> may be used without causing the apparatus <NUM>, as a whole, to be unduly lengthy. As will be understood, in general, a physically large power source <NUM> has a higher capacity (that is, the total electrical energy that can be supplied, often measured in Amp-hours or the like) and thus the battery life for the apparatus <NUM> can be longer.

In one embodiment, the heater arrangement <NUM> is generally in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube, having a hollow interior heating chamber <NUM> into which the consumable article <NUM> comprising the aerosolisable material is inserted for heating, in use. Broadly speaking, the heating chamber <NUM> is a heating zone for receiving the consumable article <NUM>. Different arrangements for the heater arrangement <NUM> are possible. In some embodiments, the heater arrangement <NUM> may comprise a single heating element or may be formed of plural heating elements aligned along the longitudinal axis of the heater arrangement <NUM>. The or each heating element may be annular or tubular, or at least part-annular or part-tubular around its circumference. In an embodiment, the or each heating element may be a thin-film heater. In another embodiment, the or each heating element may be made of a ceramics material. Examples of suitable ceramics materials include alumina and aluminium nitride and silicon nitride ceramics, which may be laminated and sintered. Other heater arrangements are possible, including for example inductive heating, infrared heater elements, which heat by emitting infrared radiation, or resistive heating elements formed by for example a resistive electrical winding.

In this embodiment, the heater arrangement <NUM> is supported by a stainless steel support tube <NUM> and comprises a heater <NUM>. In one embodiment, the heater <NUM> may comprise a substrate in which at least one electrically conductive element is formed. The substrate may be in the form of a sheet and may comprise for example a plastics layer. In a preferred embodiment the layer is a polyimide layer. The electrically conductive element/s may be printed or otherwise deposited in the substrate layer. The electrically conductive element/s may be encapsulated within or coated with the substrate.

The support tube <NUM> is a heating element that transfers heat to the consumable article <NUM>. The support tube <NUM> comprises therefore heating material. In this embodiment, the heater material is stainless steel. In other embodiments, other metallic materials may be used as the heating material. For example, the heating material may comprise a metal or a metal alloy. The heating material may comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of: aluminium, gold, iron, nickel, cobalt, conductive carbon, graphite, steel, plain-carbon steel, mild steel, ferritic stainless steel, molybdenum, copper, and bronze.

The heater arrangement <NUM> is dimensioned so that substantially the whole of the aerosolisable material when the consumable article <NUM> is inserted in the apparatus <NUM> so that substantially the whole of the aerosolisable material is heated in use.

In some embodiments, the or each heating element may be arranged so that selected zones of the aerosolisable material can be independently heated, for example in turn (over time) or together (simultaneously) as desired.

The heater arrangement <NUM> in this embodiment is surrounded along at least part of its length by a vacuum region <NUM>. The vacuum region <NUM> helps to reduce heat passing from the heater arrangement <NUM> to the exterior of the apparatus <NUM>. This helps to keep down the power requirements for the heater arrangement <NUM> as it reduces heat losses generally. The vacuum region <NUM> also helps to keep the exterior of the apparatus <NUM> cool during operation of the heater arrangement <NUM>. In some embodiments, the vacuum region <NUM> may be surrounded by a double-walled sleeve wherein the region between the two walls of the sleeve has been evacuated to provide a low-pressure region so as to minimise heat transfer by conduction and/or convection. In other embodiments, another insulating arrangement may be used, for example using heat insulating materials, including for example a suitable foam-type material, in addition to or instead of a vacuum region.

The casing <NUM>, sometimes referred to as a housing, may further comprise various internal support structures <NUM> (best seen in <FIG>) for supporting all internal components, as well as the heater arrangement <NUM>.

The apparatus <NUM> further comprises a collar <NUM> which extends around and projects from the opening <NUM> into the interior of the housing <NUM> and an expansion element <NUM> which is located between the collar <NUM> and one end of the vacuum region <NUM>. The expansion element <NUM> is a funnel that forms an expansion chamber <NUM> at the mouth end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The collar <NUM> is a retainer for retaining the consumable article <NUM> (as is best shown in <FIG>). In this embodiment, the retainer is reversibly removable from the apparatus <NUM>.

One end of the expansion element <NUM> connects to and is supported by the second sleeve 11a and the other end of the expansion element <NUM> connects to and is support by one end of a cassette <NUM>. A first sealing element <NUM>, shown as an o-ring, is interposed between the expansion element <NUM> and the second sleeve 11a, and a second sealing element <NUM>, also shown as an o-ring, is interposed between the expansion element <NUM> and the cassette <NUM>. Each o-ring is made of silicone, however, other elastomeric materials may be used to provide the seal. The first and second sealing elements <NUM>, <NUM> prevent the transmission of gas into surrounding components of the apparatus <NUM>. Sealing elements are also provided at the distal end to prevent fluid ingress and egress at the distal end.

As best seen in <FIG>, the collar <NUM>, the expansion element <NUM> and the vacuum region <NUM>/heater arrangement <NUM> are arranged co-axially, so that, as best seen in <FIG>, when the consumable article <NUM> is inserted in the apparatus <NUM>, the consumable article <NUM> extends through the collar <NUM> and the expansion element <NUM> into the heating chamber <NUM>.

As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the heater arrangement <NUM> is generally in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube. The heating chamber <NUM> formed by this tube is in fluid communication with the opening <NUM> at the mouth end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> via the expansion chamber <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the expansion element <NUM> comprises a tubular body that has a first open end adjacent the opening <NUM> and a second open end adjacent the heating chamber <NUM>. The tubular body comprises a first section that extends from the first open end to approximately half away along the tubular body and a second section that extends from approximately half away along the tubular body to the second open end. The first section comprises a flared portion that widens away from the second section. The first section therefore has an internal diameter that tapers outwardly towards the opening first open end. The second section has a substantially constant internal diameter.

As best seen in <FIG>, in this embodiment, the expansion element <NUM> is located in the housing <NUM> between the collar <NUM> and the vacuum region <NUM>/heater arrangement <NUM>. More specifically, at the second open end, the expansion element <NUM> is interposed between an end portion of the support tube <NUM> of the heater arrangement <NUM> and an inside of the vacuum region <NUM> so that the second open end of the expansion element <NUM> engages with the support tube <NUM> and the inside of the vacuum region <NUM>. At the first open end, the expansion element <NUM> receives the collar <NUM> so that legs <NUM> of the collar <NUM> project into the expansion chamber <NUM>. Therefore, an inner diameter of the first section of the expansion element <NUM> is greater than an external diameter of the legs when the consumable article <NUM> is received in the apparatus <NUM> (see <FIG>) and when no consumable article <NUM> is present.

As is best appreciated from <FIG>, the inner diameter of the first section of the expansion element <NUM> is larger than the external diameter of the consumable article <NUM>. There is therefore an air gap <NUM> between the expansion element <NUM> and the consumable article <NUM> when the consumable article <NUM> is inserted in the apparatus <NUM> over at least part of the length of the expansion element <NUM>. The air gap <NUM> is around the entire circumference of the consumable article <NUM> in that region.

As best seen in <FIG>, the collar <NUM> comprises a plurality of legs <NUM>. In this embodiment there are four legs <NUM>, where only three are visible in the view of <FIG>. However, in other embodiments there may be more or fewer than four legs <NUM>. The legs <NUM> are arranged circumferentially equally spaced around an inner surface of the collar <NUM> and exist in the expansion chamber <NUM> when the apparatus <NUM> is assembled. In this embodiment, when installed in the apparatus <NUM>, the legs <NUM> are circumferentially equally spaced around the periphery of the opening <NUM>. In one embodiment, there are four legs <NUM>, in other embodiments there may be more or fewer than four legs <NUM>. Each of the legs <NUM> extend in the Y-axis direction and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the expansion chamber <NUM> and project into the opening <NUM>. The legs <NUM> also extend radially at a tip 59a of the leg <NUM> in a direction towards the expansion element <NUM> such that the tips 59a are angled away from each other. The tip 59a of each leg <NUM> provides for improved passage of the consumable article <NUM> so as to avoid damage to the consumable article <NUM> when inserting and/or removing the consumable article <NUM> from the apparatus <NUM>. Together, the legs <NUM> provide a gripping section that grips the consumable article <NUM> in order to correctly position and retain the portion of the consumable article <NUM> that is within the expansion chamber <NUM> when the consumable article <NUM> is within the apparatus <NUM>. Between them, the legs <NUM> gently compress or pinch the consumable article <NUM> in the region or regions of the consumable article that are contacted by the legs <NUM>.

The legs <NUM> may be comprised of a resilient material (or be resilient in some other way) so that they deform slightly (for example compress) to better grip the consumable article <NUM> when the consumable article <NUM> is inserted in the apparatus <NUM> but then regain their original shape when the consumable article <NUM> is removed from the apparatus <NUM> since the legs <NUM> are biased to a rest position shown in <FIG>. Therefore, the legs <NUM> are reversibly movable from a first position, which is the rest position, to a second position, which is a deformed position shown in <FIG>, whereby the consumable article <NUM> is gripped. In this embodiment, the legs <NUM> are formed integrally with a main body of the collar <NUM>. However, in some embodiments, the legs <NUM> may be separate components that are attached to the body of the collar <NUM>. The inner diameter of the space formed between the legs <NUM> in the first, rest position, may be, for example, between <NUM> and <NUM>, and preferably <NUM>. The legs <NUM> take up space within the opening <NUM> such that the open span of the opening <NUM> at the locations of the legs <NUM> is less than the open span of the opening <NUM> at the locations without the legs <NUM>.

The expansion element <NUM> may be formed of for example a plastics material, including for example polyether ether ketone (PEEK). PEEK has a relatively high melting point compared to most other thermoplastics, and is highly resistant to thermal degradation.

Referring to <FIG>, in this embodiment, the heating chamber <NUM> communicates with a region <NUM> of reduced internal diameter towards the distal end <NUM>. This region <NUM> defines a clean-out chamber <NUM> formed by a clean-out tube <NUM>. The clean-out tube <NUM> is a hollow tube that provides an end stop for the consumable article <NUM> passed through the opening at the mouth end <NUM> (see <FIG>). The clean-out tube <NUM> is arranged to support and locate the heater arrangement <NUM>.

The apparatus <NUM> may further comprise a door <NUM> at the distal end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> that opens and closes an opening in the bottom panel <NUM> to provide access to the heating chamber <NUM> so that the heating chamber <NUM> can be cleaned. The door <NUM> pivots about a hinge <NUM>. This access through the door <NUM> particularly enables the user to clean within the heater arrangement <NUM> and the heating chamber <NUM> at the distal end <NUM>. When the door <NUM> is open, a straight through-bore is provided through the whole apparatus <NUM> between the opening <NUM> at the mouth end <NUM> and an opening at one end of the clean-out chamber at the distal end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The user is therefore easily able to clean through substantially the whole of the interior of the hollow heating chamber <NUM>. For this, the user can access the heating chamber <NUM> via either end of the apparatus <NUM> at choice. The user may use one or more various cleaning devices for this purpose, including for example a classic pipe cleaner or a brush or the like.

As shown in <FIG>, the top panel <NUM> generally forms the first end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The top panel <NUM> supports the collar <NUM> which defines an insertion point in the form of the opening <NUM> through which the consumable article <NUM> is removably inserted into the apparatus <NUM> in use.

The collar <NUM> extends around and projects from the opening <NUM> into the interior of the housing <NUM>. In this embodiment, the collar <NUM> is a distinct element from the top panel <NUM>, and is attached to the top panel <NUM> through an attachment, such as a bayonet locking mechanism. In other embodiments, an adhesive or screws may be used to couple the collar <NUM> to the top panel <NUM>. In other embodiments, the collar <NUM> may be integral with the top panel <NUM> of the housing <NUM> so the collar <NUM> and the top panel <NUM> form a single piece.

As best appreciated from <FIG> and <FIG>, open spaces defined by adjacent pairs of legs <NUM> of the collar <NUM> and the consumable article <NUM> form ventilation paths 20a around the exterior of the consumable article <NUM>. These ventilation paths 20a, allow hot vapours that have escaped from the consumable article <NUM> to exit the apparatus <NUM> and allow cooling air to flow into the apparatus <NUM> around the consumable <NUM>. In this embodiment, four ventilation paths are located around the periphery of the consumable article <NUM>, which provide ventilation for the apparatus <NUM>. In other embodiments, more or fewer of such ventilation paths 20a may be provided.

Referring again particularly to <FIG>, in this embodiment, the consumable article <NUM> is in the form of a cylindrical rod which has or contains aerosolisable material 21a at a rear end in a section of the consumable article <NUM> that is within the heater arrangement <NUM> when the consumable article <NUM> is inserted in the apparatus <NUM>. A front end of the consumable article <NUM> extends from the apparatus <NUM> and acts as the mouthpiece 21b which is an assembly that includes one or more of a filter for filtering aerosol and/or a cooling element 21c for cooling aerosol. The filter/cooling element 21c is spaced from the aerosolisable material 21a by a space 21d and is also spaced from a tip of mouthpiece assembly 21b by a further space 21e. The consumable article <NUM> is circumferentially wrapped in an outer layer (not shown). In this embodiment, the outer layer of the consumable article <NUM> is permeable to allow some heated volatilised components from the aerosolisable material 21a to escape the consumable article <NUM>.

In operation, the heater arrangement <NUM> will heat the consumable article <NUM> to volatilise at least one component of the aerosolisable material 21a.

The primary flow path for the heated volatilised components from the aerosolisable material 21a is axially through the consumable article <NUM>, through the space 21d, the filter/cooling element 21c and the further space 21e before entering a user's mouth through the open end of the mouthpiece assembly 21b. However, some of the volatilised components may escape from the consumable article <NUM> through its permeable outer wrapper and into the space <NUM> surrounding the consumable article <NUM> in the expansion chamber <NUM>.

It would be undesirable for the volatilised components that flow from the consumable article <NUM> into the expansion chamber <NUM> to be inhaled by the user, because these components would not pass through the filter/cooling element 21c and thus would be unfiltered and not cooled.

Advantageously, the volume of air surrounding the consumable article <NUM> in the expansion chamber <NUM> causes at least some of the volatilised components that escape the consumable article <NUM> through its outer layer to cool and condense on the interior wall of the expansion chamber <NUM> preventing those volatilised components from being possibly inhaled by a user.

This cooling effect may be assisted by cool air that is able to enter from outside the apparatus <NUM> into the space <NUM> surrounding the consumable article <NUM> in the expansion chamber <NUM> via the ventilation paths 20a, which allows fluid to flow into and out of the apparatus. A first ventilation path is defined between a pair of the plurality of neighbouring legs <NUM> of the collar <NUM> to provide ventilation around the outside of the consumable article <NUM> at the insertion point. A second ventilation path is provided between a second pair of neighbouring legs <NUM> for at least one heated volatilised component to flow from the consumable article <NUM> at a second location. Therefore, ventilation is provided around the outside of the consumable article <NUM> at the insertion point by the first and second ventilation paths. Furthermore, heated volatilised components that escape the consumable article <NUM> through its outer wrapper do not condense on the internal wall of the expansion chamber <NUM> and are able to flow safely out of the apparatus <NUM> via the ventilation paths 20a without being inhaled by a user. The expansion chamber <NUM> and the ventilation both aid in reducing the temperature and the content of water vapour composition released in heated volatilised components from the aerosolisable material.

The apparatus <NUM> is fitted with a thermal liner <NUM> towards the first end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the liner <NUM> is engaged with the second sleeve 11a. The thermal liner <NUM> is a heat diffuser that helps to manage heat distribution and helps to protect the second sleeve 11a from thermal stress by distributing internal heat generated by use of the apparatus <NUM> over a larger area. The thermal liner <NUM> is made from a metallic material such as aluminium in order to be lightweight and sufficiently spread heat around the proximal end <NUM>. This helps to avoid localised hot spots and increases the longevity of the second sleeve 11a. The liner <NUM> distributes heat by conduction. The liner <NUM> is not configured to insulate heat or reflect heat by radiation.

As shown in <FIG>, the support tube <NUM> is externally wrapped by a heater <NUM>. In this example, the heater <NUM> is a thin-film heater comprising polyimide and electrically conductive elements. The heater <NUM> may comprise a plurality of heating regions that are independently controlled and/or simultaneously controlled. In this example, the heater <NUM> is formed as a single heater. However, in other embodiments, the heater <NUM> may be formed of a plurality of heaters aligned along the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments, a plurality of temperature sensors may be used to detect the temperature of the heater <NUM> and/or support tube. The support tube <NUM> in this embodiment is made from stainless steel to conduct heat from the heater <NUM> towards the consumable article <NUM> when the consumable article <NUM> is inserted in a heating zone (the heating zone is defined by the thermal conduction region of the support tube <NUM>). In other embodiments, the support tube <NUM> may be made from a different material, as long as the support tube <NUM> is thermally conductive. Other heating elements <NUM> may be used in other embodiments. For example, the heating element may be a susceptor that is heatable by induction. In this embodiment, the support tube <NUM> acts as an elongate support for supporting, in use, the article <NUM> comprising aerosolisable material.

In this embodiment, the heater <NUM> is located externally of the support tube <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the heater <NUM> may be located internally of the support tube <NUM>. The heater <NUM> in this embodiment comprises a portion that passes outside of the support tube <NUM> and is referred to herein as a heater tail <NUM>. The heater tail <NUM> extends beyond the heating chamber <NUM> and is configured for electrical connection to the control circuitry <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the heater tail <NUM> physically connects to one PCB 25a. An electrical current may be provided by the power source <NUM> to the heater <NUM> via the control circuitry <NUM> and the heater tail <NUM>.

As a connection between the heating chamber <NUM> and the control circuitry <NUM> is required, it can be difficult to prevent airflow (or the flow of any other fluids) between the heating chamber <NUM> and the electronics compartment. In this embodiment, a gasket <NUM> is used to prevent such fluid flow, as shown in <FIG>. The gasket <NUM> comprises a first seal 15a and a second seal 15b. The gasket <NUM> surrounds the heater tail <NUM> and is clamped together by a base <NUM> and the cassette <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, four fastening members <NUM> are used to provide the enough force to clamp the base <NUM> and cassette <NUM> together and seal off access to and from the chamber <NUM> at this point. The fastening members <NUM> are screws that are tightened to a predetermined torque. In other embodiments, different fastening members <NUM> may be used such as bolts.

Referring to <FIG>, an assembly procedure <NUM> is shown. The assembly procedure <NUM> is for assembling parts of the apparatus <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

In this embodiment, the assembly procedure <NUM> comprises three steps S1-S3. Each of the three steps S1-S3 are shown in <FIG> by a dashed arrow. The order of the three steps S1-S3 does not necessarily equate to the step number because the steps are interchangeable and can be performed in any order. For example, at least one of the three steps S1-S3 can be performed as a first step or as a last step of the assembly procedure <NUM>. This provides an assembly process which is flexible.

When the three assembly steps S1-S3 are provided in sequence (step S1 first, step S2 second, S3 third), the assembly process is convenient because each part or group of parts are is/are brought together with an adjacent part or group of parts in the same direction. The direction may be a downward direction, for example in the Y-axis direction (corresponding to a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus <NUM>), and the bringing together of the various components may be towards a surface on which the first sleeve <NUM>1b stands or is configured to stand (for example, the bottom end <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>).

In a first assembly step S1, a first chassis <NUM> is brought towards a first sleeve 11b. In this embodiment, the first chassis <NUM> comprises the bottom panel <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The insertion direction of the first chassis <NUM> into the first sleeve 11b corresponds to the Y-axis direction. The first chassis <NUM> is shown engaged with and supporting the heating arrangement <NUM> and the control circuity <NUM>. As previously discussed, aerosolisable material is received by the heating arrangement <NUM> by inserting the aerosolisable material in a longitudinal direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus <NUM> and the longitudinal axis of the elongate heating zone <NUM>.

In the first assembly step S1, as also shown in <FIG>, the engaged first chassis <NUM> and heating arrangement <NUM> are inserted into a cavity 12b of the first sleeve 11b.

In this embodiment, the control circuitry <NUM>, comprising the two PCBs 25a, 25b (shown in <FIG>), are also engaged with the first chassis <NUM>.

Following insertion of the first chassis <NUM> and the heating arrangement <NUM> into the cavity 12b, relative movement of the first chassis <NUM> and first sleeve is inhibited by a first end stop <NUM> (see <FIG>) shown as a receiving portion <NUM>. The receiving portion <NUM> is configured to receive a clip <NUM> of the first chassis <NUM>. The clip <NUM> may be referred to as a tab because the clip <NUM> is a protrusion. The clip <NUM> is configured to deflect under load in order to mate with the receiving portion <NUM>. In this embodiment, the clip <NUM> is shown as a cantilever protrusion. The clip <NUM> therefore comprises a tip at a distal end away from a body of the first chassis <NUM>, and a base at a proximal end closest to the body of the first chassis <NUM>. The tip is configured to deflect or flex about the base in order to engage and disengage. Although in this embodiment, first engagement element, as shown by the clip <NUM>, is part of the first chassis <NUM>, in other embodiments, the first engagement element may be comprised by a component that is supported by the first chassis <NUM>. The second chassis <NUM>, for example, is a component that is supported by the first chassis <NUM>, when the second chassis <NUM> is engaged with the first chassis <NUM>.

The clip <NUM> and receiving portion <NUM> are each examples of an engagement element that latch together to interlock. The clip <NUM> may be said to be a first engagement element and the receiving portion <NUM> may be said to be a second engagement element. In this embodiment, a degree of movement is provided between the clip <NUM> and receiving portion <NUM>. This is because precise location control in the first assembly step S1 is not required, unlike the second and third assembly steps S2, S3. In other embodiments, little or no freedom of movement may be provided between the clip <NUM> and receiving portion <NUM> because precise location control may be used.

The receiving portion <NUM> comprises an edge which abuts a protrusion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> to block the clip <NUM> and inhibits relative movement of the first chassis <NUM> and first sleeve <NUM>1b at least in a first direction, for example, the direction opposite to the direction of insertion of the first chassis <NUM> into the cavity 12b.

The clip <NUM> is shown inside the receiving portion <NUM> in <FIG>. The protrusion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> is automatically received in the receiving portion <NUM> when the first chassis <NUM> is inserted into the cavity 12b of the first sleeve <NUM>1b. The clip <NUM> is caused to deflect inwardly by the first sleeve 11b until the clip <NUM> is received in the receiving portion <NUM>. Once received in the receiving portion <NUM>, the clip <NUM> is not structurally stressed or deflected from a resting position.

An abutment portion <NUM> of the first chassis <NUM> is configured to abut a second end stop <NUM> of the first sleeve 11b. The second end stop <NUM> acts to restrict relative movement between the first sleeve 11b and the first chassis <NUM> in a second direction, for example, the direction of insertion of the first chassis <NUM> into the cavity 12b. In this embodiment, the second end stop <NUM> inhibits relative movement between the first sleeve 11b and the first chassis <NUM> in a direction opposite the direction of relative movement inhibited by the first end stop <NUM>. Accordingly, the abutment between the abutment portion <NUM> and the second end stop <NUM> may prevent further insertion of the first chassis <NUM> through the cavity 12b of the first sleeve 11b. The abutment portion <NUM> is shown as a ledge which extends around the perimeter of the first chassis <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the abutment portion <NUM> may be a protrusion or a plurality of protrusions as long as the abutment portion <NUM> is able to abut with the second end stop <NUM>. The second end stop <NUM> is therefore configured to block (restrict) relative movement between the first chassis <NUM> and the first sleeve <NUM>1b in the insertion direction. That is, the second end stop <NUM> inhibits insertion of the first chassis <NUM> in a direction along the Y-axis direction. In contrast, the first end stop <NUM> is configured to block (restrict) relative movement between the first chassis <NUM> and the first sleeve <NUM>1b in a withdrawal direction opposite to the insertion direction. The blocking direction of the second end stop <NUM> may be one direction along the Y-axis direction such that the first chassis <NUM> and first sleeve <NUM>1b are free to move relative each other at this stage in the direction opposite the insertion direction.

In the embodiment shown, the second end stop <NUM> is provided at a distal end of the first sleeve <NUM>1b, whereas the first end stop <NUM> is provided close to the distal end of the first sleeve 11b and not at the distal end. However, in other embodiments, the second end stop <NUM> may be provided away from the distal end of the first sleeve 11b.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the abutment portion <NUM> of the first chassis <NUM> and the second end stop <NUM> of the first sleeve 11b are both located at a distal end, towards the bottom of the apparatus <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>). In this embodiment, the abutment portion <NUM> of the first chassis <NUM> comprises an end space for receiving the second end stop <NUM> of the first sleeve 11b. In some embodiments, the abutment portion <NUM> of the first chassis <NUM> may comprise a plurality of protrusions forming a space between adjacent protrusions, wherein the space is for receiving a protrusion of the second end stop <NUM> of the first sleeve 11b. In this embodiment, the second end stop <NUM> of the first sleeve 11b comprises an end of the first sleeve 11b, which, as shown in <FIG>, is at the distal end of the first sleeve <NUM>1b. The second end stop <NUM> is shown in this embodiment as an inwardly turned portion of a main body of the first sleeve <NUM>1b, rather than a protrusion of the main body of the first sleeve <NUM>1b. In some embodiment, the second end stop <NUM> of the first sleeve <NUM>1b may comprise a protrusion, which may be a single protrusion. In other embodiments, the second end stop <NUM> may comprise a plurality of protrusions.

When the abutment portion <NUM> of the first chassis <NUM> is configured to abut the second end stop <NUM> in the first assembly step S1, an aperture 6a provides access to the electrical connection port <NUM>. Otherwise, the main body of the first sleeve 11b covers the first chassis <NUM> and at least part of the heating arrangement <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the first chassis <NUM> is engaged with the first sleeve <NUM>1b by a first snap-fit arrangement in the first assembly step S1 of the assembly procedure <NUM>. The first snap-fit arrangement comprises the clip <NUM> and the receiving portion <NUM>. As the first chassis <NUM> moves towards the distal end of the first sleeve 11b the protrusion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> automatically enters the receiving portion <NUM> of the first sleeve 11b. When the clip <NUM> enters the cavity 12b, the clip <NUM> is configured to automatically deflect inwardly and then automatically deflect outwardly when arriving at the receiving portion <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the protrusion <NUM> comprises a ramped portion <NUM>. The ramped portion <NUM> provides ease of engaging of the first snap-fit arrangement and the positive fitment of the first chassis <NUM> to the first sleeve <NUM>1b. The protrusion <NUM> also comprises a blocking portion to prevent withdrawal of the first chassis <NUM> from the first sleeve 11b in a direction opposite the direction of insertion. The blocking portion abuts the receiving portion <NUM>. The only way to remove the first chassis <NUM> from the first sleeve 11b once engaged by the first snap-fit arrangement is to reversibly deflect the clip <NUM> and remove the protrusion <NUM> from the receiving portion <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown, the first snap-fit arrangement comprises two clips <NUM> and two receiving portions <NUM> are shown. The two clips <NUM> are arranged on opposing sides of the chassis <NUM> and the two receiving portions <NUM> are arranged on opposing sides of the first sleeve 11b. In other embodiments, the first snap-fit arrangement may comprise a single clip <NUM> to engage with a corresponding single receiving portion <NUM>.

The first assembly step S1 is convenient because no lining up of the engaging parts of the first snap-fit arrangement is required because a shape of the cavity 12b of the first sleeve 11b effectively feeds the first chassis <NUM> along the first sleeve 11b. The act of insertion therefore leads to automatic engagement of engagement elements. A process of pushing the two parts together, in this instance, the first chassis <NUM> and the first sleeve 11b, leads to automatic interlocking of the first chassis <NUM> and the first sleeve 11b.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a second assembly step S2 of the assembly procedure <NUM> is shown. The second assembly step S2 comprises the bringing together of the first chassis <NUM> and a second chassis <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the second chassis <NUM> is a support structure for the power source <NUM>. The second chassis <NUM> comprises a first zone where the power source <NUM> is positioned. That is, the first zone is for occupancy by the power source <NUM>. The second chassis <NUM> comprises a first engageable portion <NUM>. The first chassis <NUM> comprises a second engageable portion <NUM>. Together, the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM> form a second snap-fit arrangement. The first engageable portion <NUM> and second engageable portion <NUM> are each examples of an engagement element. The second engageable portion <NUM> may be said to be a third engagement element and the first engageable portion <NUM> be said to be a fourth engagement element.

In this embodiment, a lesser degree of movement is provided between the first engageable portion <NUM> and second engageable portion <NUM> than a degree of movement between the clip <NUM> and the receiving portion <NUM>. This is because more precise location control is required in the second assembly step S2, unlike the first assembly step S1. In other embodiments, some freedom of movement may be provided between the first engageable portion <NUM> and second engageable portion <NUM>.

Once the first chassis <NUM> is fully inserted in the cavity 12b of the first sleeve <NUM>1b, such that the abutment portion <NUM> abuts the second end stop <NUM>, the first sleeve <NUM>1b is configured to surround only a portion of the first zone. Furthermore, a second zone for occupancy by the PCBs 25a, 25b is surrounded by the first sleeve 11b, when the second chassis <NUM> is engaged with the first chassis <NUM> in the second and first assembly steps S1, S2.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the second chassis <NUM> comprises a first arm 37b and a second arm 37c defining a cavity 37a therebetween. The cavity 37a of the second chassis <NUM> is for receiving the heating arrangement <NUM> engaged with the first chassis <NUM>. As further shown in <FIG>, each of the first and second arms 37a, 37b comprise the first engageable portion <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the first engageable portion <NUM> comprises two first protrusions 87a which are spaced apart from each other by a first recess 87b.

As shown in <FIG>, the second engageable portion <NUM> is a clip for insertion into and engagement with the first engageable portion <NUM>. The second engageable portion <NUM> comprises two second recesses 85a to receive the two first protrusions 87a of the first engageable portion <NUM>. Once received, the two first protrusions 87a of the first engageable portion <NUM> abut against a wall of the second engageable portion <NUM> defining two second protrusions 85b to retain the first and second engageable portions <NUM>, <NUM> together and engage the first chassis <NUM> and the second chassis <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, for example, the two first protrusions 87a of the first engageable portion <NUM> comprise a ramped portion to allow the two second protrusions 85b of the second engageable portion <NUM> to slide along the two first protrusions 87a before entering the first recess 87b. The ramped portion tapers from a tip of each of the first protrusions 87a towards the first recess 87b.

Once engaged, the two first protrusions 87a are held within the respective second recesses 85a of the second engageable portion <NUM> and the two second protrusions 85b of the second engageable portion <NUM> are held within the first recess 87b of the first engageable portion <NUM>.

The snap-fit arrangement of the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM> therefore provide greater resistance to separation of the engagement. Although local deformation is required to engage and separate the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM>, the reversible deformation (deflection) is encouraged by the ramped portion to provide ease of insertion and positive fitment of the first chassis <NUM> and second chassis <NUM>.

Although the temporary flexing of the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM> occurs, in this embodiment the flexing movement is reversible and the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM> return to a state of rest when the first chassis <NUM> and the second chassis <NUM> are engaged. In the state of rest, no deformation force is exerted between the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the second snap-fit arrangement provides cooperative engagement between the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM> when the second chassis <NUM> and first chassis <NUM> are engaged. That is, the first engageable portion <NUM> and the second engageable portion <NUM> are interlocked once engaged so as to prevent (inhibit) relative movement between the second chassis <NUM> and the first chassis <NUM>. For example, the two second protrusions 85b fit precisely within the recess 87b to prevent such relative movement. In other embodiments, cooperatively engagement may not be required, for example when friction is used to hold a state of engagement.

The engaging of parts using a snap-fit arrangement allows engaged parts to be pushed together and combined in a simple manner. In some embodiments, the engagement of one engagement element with another engagement element may inhibit movement but not entirely restrain the two parts. That is, in some snap-fit arrangements, some play between the parts may exist.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a third assembly step S3 of the assembly procedure <NUM> is shown. The third assembly step S3 comprises bringing together the second sleeve 11a with the second chassis <NUM>.

The second sleeve 11a comprises a cavity 12a to receive the second chassis <NUM> and heating arrangement <NUM>. Once brought together, the second sleeve 11a can be engaged to the second chassis <NUM> using a fastener <NUM>. Once engaged, the user-operated button <NUM> is caused to align with a hole in the second sleeve 11a. As shown in <FIG>, the hole corresponds to the outer concentric circle and the inner concentric circle corresponds to the user-operated button <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, two fasteners <NUM> are shown. In other embodiments, a single fastener <NUM> may be used as long as the second sleeve 11a is held securely to the second chassis <NUM>. The use of two fasteners <NUM> helps to distribute forces across a larger area than with one fastener <NUM> to provide stability in the assembly procedure <NUM>. In other examples, three or more fasteners <NUM> may be used. To accommodate the fasteners <NUM>, threaded portions <NUM> are provided in a main body of the second chassis <NUM>.

When the first chassis <NUM> is engaged with the second chassis <NUM>, the fasteners <NUM> allow the second sleeve 11a to be engaged with the second chassis <NUM> so that the second sleeve 11a, second chassis <NUM> and first chassis <NUM> can be engaged as a unit to the first sleeve 11b. The fasteners <NUM> also help to improve the ease of assembly by holding a relative position of the second sleeve 11a to the engaged second chassis <NUM> and first chassis <NUM> when engaging the second sleeve 11a and the first sleeve 11b in the third assembly step S3.

The second sleeve 11a is engaged with the first sleeve 11b under a third snap-fit arrangement in the third assembly step S3. The third snap-fit arrangement comprises a first arrangement <NUM> of protrusions and spaces of the second sleeve 11a. The protrusions and spaces of the first arrangement <NUM> are angled to the X-axis direction. In other embodiments, the protrusions and spaces of the first arrangement <NUM> may be arranged in the X-axis direction. The first sleeve comprises a second arrangement <NUM> comprising a protrusion. In other embodiments, the second arrangement <NUM> may comprise protrusions and spaces and may be substantially the same as the first arrangement <NUM> for respective engagement.

As the second sleeve <NUM>1a is brought towards the first sleeve <NUM>1b the protrusion of the second arrangement <NUM> is intermittently passed between adjacent spaces formed between the protrusions of the first arrangement <NUM>. This provides feedback to an assembler and provides a stepped engagement procedure. When fully inserted, the first arrangement <NUM> is within the cavity 12b of the first sleeve 11b and is concealed by the first sleeve <NUM>1b.

The first arrangement <NUM> and second arrangement <NUM> are each examples of an engagement element. The second arrangement <NUM> may be said to be a fifth engagement element and the first arrangement <NUM> be said to be a sixth engagement element. In this embodiment, little or no freedom of movement is provided between the first arrangement <NUM> and second arrangement <NUM> when engaged. This is because the first sleeve 11b and the second sleeve 11a are required to be precisely engaged as a single unit. Such location control is more important than in the first assembly step S1, for example.

As shown in <FIG>, when apparatus <NUM> is assembled, such that the second sleeve <NUM>1a and first sleeve <NUM>1b are engaged, each of the second sleeve 11a and the first sleeve <NUM>1b is configured to surround at least a portion of the first zone within which the power source <NUM> is positioned.

Advantageously, the apparatus <NUM> is assembled in a quick and convenient manner. The use of snap-fit arrangements leads to an automatic engaging of parts to help speed up the assembly process.

Although a snap-fit arrangement is described, in some embodiments, the first and second engagement elements, the third and fourth engagement elements, and/or the fifth and sixth engagement elements form a mechanical latch mechanism that engages and/or disengages under pressure. That is, respective engagement elements of the mechanical mechanism can be pressed together to engage. The process of pressing together the respective engagement elements leads to the temporary flexing of at least one of the engagement elements before the engagement elements are caused to automatically interlock. The activation of the interlocking is therefore caused by the insertion of one of the engagement elements into another one of the engagement elements.

The first to sixth engagement elements described herein engage so as to interlock. The interlocking causes the two separate components or groups of components to become coupled. Although there may be some freedom of movement between the coupled components or groups of components the engagement of the engagement elements inhibits separation. That is, disengagement only occurs when at least one engagement element flexes (deflects) in a reversible manner.

Although the first chassis <NUM> comprises the first engagement element, the first engagement element may be comprised by any of the internal components that are supported by the first chassis <NUM>. For example, the first engagement element may be comprised by at least one of the heating arrangement <NUM>, the control circuity <NUM>, the second chassis <NUM>, and the power source <NUM>. In some embodiments, when the first engagement element is comprised by the second chassis <NUM> and/or the power source <NUM>, the first assembly step S1 occurs after the second assembly step S2. However, in other embodiments, the second assembly step S2 of engaging the first chassis <NUM> to the second chassis <NUM> may be performed before an assembly step of engaging the first sleeve 11b with the second chassis <NUM> and/or the power source <NUM>. This is because automatic engagement occurs between the second chassis <NUM> and/or the power source <NUM> and the first sleeve 11b during assembly of the apparatus rather than between the first chassis <NUM> and the first sleeve 11b.

<FIG> shows a flow diagram showing an example of a method <NUM> of assembling an apparatus for heating aerosolisable material to volatilise at least one component of the aerosolisable material. The method may additionally comprise any of the features as previously described alone or in combination.

The method <NUM> comprises providing a first chassis <NUM> for supporting a heating arrangement for receiving and heating aerosolisable material, the first chassis comprising a first engagement element. The method <NUM> further comprises providing a first sleeve <NUM> to form at least a part of a casing of the apparatus, the first sleeve comprising a second engagement element. Once the first chassis and first sleeve are provided, the method comprises inserting the first chassis <NUM> into a cavity of the first sleeve to cause automatic engagement of the first engagement element and the second engagement element during assembly of the apparatus.

In some embodiments, the aerosolisable material comprises tobacco. However, in other embodiments, the aerosolisable material may consist of tobacco, may consist substantially entirely of tobacco, may comprise tobacco and aerosolisable material other than tobacco, may comprise aerosolisable material other than tobacco, or may be free from tobacco. In some embodiments, the aerosolisable material may comprise a vapour or aerosol forming agent or a humectant, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, or diethylene glycol.

In some embodiments, the aerosolisable material is non-liquid aerosolisable material, and the apparatus is for heating non-liquid aerosolisable material to volatilise at least one component of the aerosolisable material.

Once all, or substantially all, of the volatilisable component(s) of the aerosolisable material in the consumable article <NUM> has/have been spent, the user may remove the article <NUM> from the apparatus <NUM> and dispose of the article <NUM>. The user may subsequently re-use the apparatus <NUM> with another of the articles <NUM>. However, in other respective embodiments, the article may be non-consumable, and the apparatus and the article may be disposed of together once the volatilisable component(s) of the aerosolisable material has/have been spent.

In embodiments described herein the consumable article <NUM> comprises a mouthpiece assembly 21b. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments an example apparatus as described herein may comprise a mouthpiece. For example, the apparatus <NUM> may comprise a mouthpiece which is integral with the apparatus, or in other embodiments the apparatus may comprise a mouthpiece which is detachably attached to the apparatus <NUM>. In an example, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to receive aerosolisable material to be heated. The aerosolisable material may be contained in a consumable article not comprising a mouthpiece portion. A user may draw on the mouthpiece of the apparatus <NUM> to inhale aerosol generated by the apparatus by heating the aerosolisable material.

In some embodiments, the article <NUM> is sold, supplied or otherwise provided separately from the apparatus <NUM> with which the article <NUM> is usable. However, in some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> and one or more of the articles <NUM> may be provided together as a system, such as a kit or an assembly, possibly with additional components, such as cleaning utensils.

Claim 1:
An apparatus (<NUM>) for heating aerosolisable material to volatilise at least one component of the aerosolisable material to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the apparatus (<NUM>) having a first proximal end (<NUM>) and a second distal end (<NUM>), the apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
a first chassis (<NUM>) engaged with and supporting a heating arrangement (<NUM>) for receiving and heating aerosolisable material, the first chassis (<NUM>) or a component supported by the first chassis (<NUM>) comprising a first engagement element (<NUM>); and
a first sleeve (11b) to form at least a part of the casing (<NUM>) of the apparatus (<NUM>), the first sleeve (11b) comprising a second engagement element (<NUM>);
characterised in that the first engagement element (<NUM>) and second engagement element (<NUM>) are arranged to automatically engage when the first chassis (<NUM>) is inserted into a cavity (12b) of the first sleeve (<NUM>1b) during assembly of the apparatus (<NUM>), wherein the first engagement element (<NUM>) and the second engagement element (<NUM>) form a first snap-fit arrangement for engagement of the first chassis (<NUM>) and the first sleeve (11b) or the component supported by the first chassis (<NUM>) and the first sleeve (11b).