Abstract: [en] a package for storing smoking articles includes a body having a plurality of walls defining a volume, including a front wall and a rear wall, and an opening; a lid for closing the opening and having a plurality of walls and being hinged on the rear wall, allowing the lid to be moved between closed and open positions; a locking tab; and an engagement recess for engaging the locking tab when the lid is in the closed position. the locking tab is connected to one of either the front wall of the body or an inner side of a front wall of the lid, and the engagement recess is located on the other one. the locking tab and the engagement recess each have a respective engagement edge for mutual engagement. the engagement edge of at least one of the locking tab and the engagement recess follows a curved line.

[en] 1. a package for storing smoking articles, the package comprising: a body comprising a plurality of walls defining a volume for storing the smoking articles, including a front wall and a rear wall substantially opposite the front wall, and an opening for accessing the volume and inserting or removing any smoking articles stored therein;a lid for closing the opening of the body, the lid comprising a plurality of walls and being hinged on the rear wall of the body, allowing the lid to be moved between a closed position and an open position;a locking tab;an engagement recess for engaging with the locking tab when the lid is in the closed position;wherein the locking tab is connected to one of either (a) the front wall of the body of the package or (b) an inner side of a front wall of the lid, and the engagement recess is located on the other one of either (a) the front wall of the body of the package, or (b) the inner side of the front wall of the lid; andwherein the locking tab and the engagement recess each have a respective engagement edge for mutual engagement between the locking tab and the engagement recess, wherein the engagement edge of at least one of the locking tab and the engagement recess follows a curved line.
2. a package according to claim 1, wherein the engagement edge of both the locking tab and the engagement recess follow a curved line.
3. a package according to claim 2, wherein the engagement edge of the engagement recess follows a first curved line and the engagement edge of the locking tab follows a second curved line which is parallel to and offset in a longitudinal direction of the package from the first curved line when the lid is in the closed position.
4. a package according to claim 1, wherein the engagement edge of the locking tab is inscribed in a first ellipse.
5. a package according to claim 4, wherein each end of the engagement edge is located at a different respective end of a major axis of the first ellipse and a locking tab hinge extends along the major axis of the first ellipse.
6. a package according to claim 5, wherein the engagement edge of the engagement recess is inscribed in a second ellipse.
7. a package according to claim 6, wherein the engagement edge of the engagement recess extends along at least half of the second ellipse between vertices on a major axis of the second ellipse and wherein the major axis of the second ellipse is parallel to the locking tab hinge when the lid is in the closed position.
8. a package according to claim 7, wherein the engagement edge of the engagement recess extends to, and is fully delimited by, the second ellipse.
9. a package according to claim 7, wherein the locking tab and the engagement recess are arranged such that, when the lid is in the closed position, the major axis of the first ellipse is coaxial and smaller than the major axis of the second ellipse.
10. a package according to claim 1, wherein the locking tab is located on the front wall of the body and connected to the front wall of the body by a fold line and wherein the engagement recess is located on the inner side of the front wall of the lid.
11. a package according to claim 1, wherein the engagement recess is located on the front wall of the body and is formed by a cut-out therein and wherein the locking tab is formed on the inner side of the front wall of the lid.
12. a package according to claim 1, wherein the locking tab and the engagement recess are arranged such that the locking tab fits into the engagement recess in the closed position of the lid and engages with the engagement recess in a hooking fashion upon opening of the lid towards the open position.
13. a package according to claim 1, further comprising an inner frame and wherein the front wall of the body of the package comprises a front wall of the inner frame.
14. a blank or set of blanks for forming the package of claim 1, the blank or set of blanks comprising: a plurality of panels for forming the walls of the body and the lid of the package, including a front wall panel for forming the front wall of the body and a rear wall panel for forming the rear wall of the body;a crease line for forming a hinged connection between the lid and the rear wall panel, the hinged connection allowing the lid to be moved between the closed position and the open position;wherein the locking tab is formed on one of either (a) the front wall panel or (b) a panel for forming the inner side of the front wall of the lid, and the engagement recess is formed on the other one of either (a) the front wall panel, or (b) the inner side of the front wall of the lid; andwherein the locking tab and the engagement recess are located to allow mutual engagement between the respective engagement edges of the locking tab and the engagement recess and are formed such that the engagement edge of at least one of the locking tab and the engagement recess follows a curved line.
15. a method of forming a package comprising folding the blank or set of blanks of claim 14.
16. a package according to claim 1, wherein the engagement edge of the engagement recess is inscribed in a second ellipse.
17. a package according to claim 16, wherein the engagement edge of the engagement recess extends along at least half of the second ellipse between vertices on a major axis of the second ellipse and wherein the major axis of the second ellipse is parallel to a locking tab hinge when the lid is in the closed position.
18. a package according to claim 17, wherein the engagement edge of the engagement recess extends to, and is fully delimited by, the second ellipse.
19. a blank for forming a package for storing smoking articles, the blank comprising: a plurality of panels for forming a body and a lid of the package, the body comprising a plurality of walls defining a volume for storing the smoking articles, including a front wall and a rear wall substantially opposite the front wall, and an opening for accessing the volume and inserting or removing any smoking articles stored therein, the lid for closing the opening of the body, the lid comprising a plurality of walls, the plurality of panels including a front wall panel for forming the front wall of the body and a rear wall panel for forming the rear wall of the body;a crease line for forming a hinged connection between the lid and the rear wall panel, the hinged connection allowing the lid to be moved between a closed position and an open position;wherein a locking tab is formed on one of either (a) the front wall panel or (b) a panel for forming an inner side of a front wall of the lid, and an engagement recess for engaging with the locking tab when the lid is in the closed position is formed on the other one of either (a) the front wall panel, or (b) the inner side of the front wall of the lid; andwherein the locking tab and the engagement recess are located to allow mutual engagement between respective engagement edges of the locking tab and the engagement recess and are formed such that the engagement edge of at least one of the locking tab and the engagement recess follows a curved line.


Abstract: [en] the present invention relates to an electronic smoking system comprising an aerosol generating device with a compressed fluid reservoir and a tank mount and as well as a tank to be mounted in the tank mount. the tank (1) comprises a cavity (7), which comprises at least a first compartment (8), which is fillable with a vaporizable liquid and a second compartment (9) in which a pressure generator and a pressure regulator is arranged. in a state in which the tank is mounted in the tank mount, the compressed fluid reservoir is in fluid communication with the second compartment with the fluid communication preferably to be controllable by the pressure regulator.the invention also relates to a method of pressurizing vaporizable liquids in a tank of an aerosol generating device. the device comprises a cavity that is defined by at least one wall, which comprises an orifice, through which a vaporizable liquid is pressable. the cavity comprises at least a first compartment, which is fillable with the vaporizable liquid and a second compartment in which a pressure generator is arranged. the method comprises the steps of: a) generating a pressure directed from the second compartment to the orifice, b) regulating the pressure by using a mechanical and/or electrical operated pressure regulator and c) transferring the pressure from the pressure generator to the vaporizable liquid.

[en] 1. aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol comprising a tank mount, suitable for removably mounting a tank for vaporizable liquids,characterized in that, the device comprises a compressed fluid reservoir, which is fillable with compressed fluid and which is connected in fluid communication to at least a device pressurization port, wherein the pressurization port is arranged at the tank mount.
2. aerosol generating device according to claim 1,characterized in that it comprises a pressure regulator arranged between the device pressurization port and the compressed fluid reservoir.
3. tank to be removably mounted on a tank mount of an aerosol generating device, comprising a cavity that is defined by at least one wall, which comprises an orifice, through which a vaporizable liquid is pressable, wherein the cavity comprises at least a first compartment, which is fillable with a vaporizable liquid and a second compartment in which a pressure generator is arranged,characterized in that, the tank comprises a pressure regulator, which regulates a pressure of the vaporizable liquid directed from the pressure generator against the orifice to create a flow of the vaporizable liquid from the second compartment through the orifice and out of the tank.
4. tank according to claim 3,characterized in that it comprises a separator separating the first compartment and the second compartment, wherein this separator is at least partially movable with respect to the cavity.
5. tank according to the preceding claim,characterized in that the separator is able to transfer the pressure from the pressure generator to the vaporizable liquid by being movable.
6. tank according to at least one of the preceding claims,characterized in that, the pressure generator comprises or is a compressed gas.
7. tank according to at least one of the preceding claims,characterized in that, the pressure regulator comprises at least one of a screw, a compressor or a valve.
8. tank according to at least one of the preceding claims,characterized in that, it comprises at least a tank pressurization port, which is in fluid connection to the second compartment and is preferably removably connectable to a countering device pressurization port.
9. tank according to the preceding claim,characterized in that, the pressure regulator is arranged between the tank pressurization port and the second compartment.
10. tank according to at least one of claims 7-9,characterized in that, the pressure regulator is able to regulate an opening of the valve.
11. tank according to at least one of the preceding claims,characterized in that, it comprises a gauge for detecting a filling level of the vaporizable liquid and/or pressure of the liquid, wherein the gauge is preferably linked to the pressure regulator via data technology, wherein preferably the gauge is able to send a regulation signal to the pressure regulator in order to trigger the opening of the valve.
12. an electronic smoking system comprising an aerosol generating device according to claim 1-2 and a tank according to claim 3-11, wherein the tank is mounted in the tank mount,characterized in that,the tank is fluidically and/or electronically connected to the aerosol generating device so that the compressed fluid reservoir is in fluid communication with the second compartment, wherein preferably that fluid communication is controllable by the pressure regulator.
13. an electronic smoking system according to the preceding claim,characterized in that, it comprises a window and/or a display able to show a level of the pressure or a filling level of the vaporizable liquid.
14. method of pressurizing vaporizable liquids in a tank of an aerosol generating device comprising a cavity that is defined by at least one wall, which comprises an orifice, through which a vaporizable liquid is pressable, wherein the cavity comprises at least a first compartment, which is fillable with the vaporizable liquid and a second compartment in which a pressure generator is arranged, comprising the steps of: a. generating pressure directed from the second compartment to the orifice,b. regulating the pressure by using a mechanical and/or electrical operated pressure regulator,c. transferring the pressure from the pressure generator to the vaporizable liquid.
15. method according to claim 14,characterized by, two additional steps: d. opening the orifice,e. releasing the pressure by allowing the vaporizable liquid to flow from the first compartment through the orifice and out of the tank.


Abstract: [en] a method of transferring a portion (12) of smokable material from a casing (11) into a smokable tube (202), the method comprising advancing at least one of the casing and the portion of smokable material toward the other to advance the casing and the portion into the tube by a first distance less than the length of the space within the tube, at least partially withdrawing the casing from the tube, while holding the portion in the tube, and further driving the tobacco portion into the tube, as well as a corresponding device.

[en] 1. a method of transferring a portion of smokable material from a casing into a smokable tube, the method comprising: advancing at least one of the casing and the portion of smokable material toward the other to advance the casing and the portion into the tube by a first distance less than the length of the space within the tube;at least partially withdrawing the casing from the tube, while holding the portion in the tube; andfurther driving the tobacco portion into the tube.
2. a method for producing a smoking article by transferring a portion of smokable material from a casing into a smokable tube, the method comprising: advancing at least one of the casing and the portion of smokable material toward the other to advance the casing and the portion into the tube and to drive a distal end of the portion to a closed end of the tube;at least partially withdrawing the casing from the tube, while holding the portion in the tube; andfurther driving the tobacco portion toward the tube to remove the cigarette tube from the casing.
3. a method according to claim 2, wherein the casing is a separate part of a consumable comprising the smokable portion and the casing.
4. a method according to claim 3, wherein the step of displacing the casing and the portion of smokable material into the smokable tube by a first distance leaves a gap between the portion and a closed end of the tube.
5. a method according to claim 4, wherein the first distance is less than a longitudinal length of the portion prior to insertion.
6. a method according to claim 5, wherein the first distance is less than: around nine tenths of the length of the portion; oraround four fifths of the length of the portion; oraround three-quarters of the length of the portion; oraround half of the length of the portion; oraround a quarter of the length of the portion; oraround 10 percent of the length of the portion.
7. a method according to claim 4, wherein displacing the portion within the casing is carried out by a portion driving member of a cigarette tube filling device.
8. a method according to claim 7, wherein the casing is engaged by a cigarette tube filling device to displace the casing.
9. a method according to claim 8, wherein the casing comprises an adaptor arranged to be engaged by a cigarette tube filling device.
10. a method according to claim 9, wherein the cigarette tube filling device comprises movable casing engagement means for engaging the casing such that the machine can displace the casing in a longitudinal manner.
11. a method according to claim 10, wherein the casing engagement means comprises a clamp.
12. a method according to claim 10, wherein tube end adapter means are provided at the open end of the smokable tube.
13. a method according to claim 12, wherein the tube end adapter comprises flexible members.
14. a method according to claim 12, wherein the tube end adapter comprises a substantially frustro-conical member.
15. a method according to claim 12, wherein the tube end adapter comprises a plurality of converging members having first ends located outside the tube and at a larger diameter than the tube and second ends at or within the tube end.
16. a method according to claim 12, further comprising displacing the portion and the smokable tube by driving an end of the portion.
17. a method according to claim 16, wherein the portion and the smokable tube are displaced until the tube abuts an end stop.
18. a method according to claim 16, wherein the portion and the smokable tube are displaced by driving against an end of the portion until the smokable tube is removed from an outer side of the casing.
19. a method according to claim 18, wherein the smokable tube is held in place by a tube retaining part of a machine during withdrawal of the casing.
20. a method according to claim 19, wherein: once the portion is transferred into the tube, the casing is partially withdrawn, such that a first part of the portion in the tube is not in the casing, a second part of the portion in the tube remains in the casing and a part of the tube covers an end part of the casing.
21. a method according to claim 20, wherein the portion is driven against a closed end of the tube to remove the tube from the casing.
22. a method according to claim 21, wherein the length of the portion prior to transfer to the cigarette tube is greater than the length of the void within the cigarette tube.
23. a method according to claim 22, wherein: a length of the smokable tube is measured; andan optimal end position to which the end of the portion should be driven is calculated.
24. a method according to claim 23, further comprising: after at least partially withdrawing the casing from the smokable tube while holding the portion in the tube, further driving both the casing and the portion toward the cigarette tube.
25. a method according to claim 24, further comprising the step of: withdrawing the casing from the cigarette tube after the step of further driving the casing and the portion toward the cigarette tube.
26. a method according to claim 25, wherein the portion is held in a substantially fixed position relative to the tube while the casing is withdrawn.
27. a method according to claim 26, wherein the step of at least partially withdrawing the casing relative to the tube comprises: withdrawing the casing by a distance of up to around 30 percent of the length of the tube; orwithdrawing the casing by a distance of between around 3 percent to around 30 percent of the length of the tube; orwithdrawing the casing by a distance of between around 10 percent and 30 percent of the length of the tube; orwithdrawing the casing by a distance of between around 10 percent and 25 percent of the length of the tube; orwithdrawing the casing by a distance of between around 3 percent and 10 percent or 25 percent of the length of the tube.
28. a method according to claim 27, further comprising the step of driving the second transfer member against the end of the tobacco portion in the filled cigarette tube to finish the cigarette end.
29. a tube filling device arranged to carry out the method of claim 2.
30. a tube filling device for transferring a portion of smokable material from a casing to a smokable tube comprising: a tube receiving area for receiving a smokable tube to be filled;portion displacement means for displacing the portion relative tothe casing; and casing displacement means for engaging and displacing the casing.
31. a device according to claim 30, wherein the casing displacement means and the portion displacement means are movable relative to one another.
32. a device according to claim 31, wherein the casing displacement means are movable relative to the tube receiving area.
33. a device according to claim 32, wherein the casing displacement means and the portion displacement means are movable relative to one another and relative to the tube receiving area.
34. a device according to claim 33, wherein the casing displacement means comprises casing engagement means.
35. a device according to claim 34, wherein the casing engagement means comprises clamping means.
36. a device according to claim 35, wherein the tube receiving area comprises tube engagement means for engaging the tube.
37. a device according to claim 36, wherein the tube engagement means comprises clamping means and/or an end stop.
38. a device according to claim 37, wherein the casing displacement means is driven by a first drive mechanism and the portion displacement means is driven by a second drive mechanism, such that each may be driven independently of the other.
39. a device according to claim 38, wherein the portion displacement means is arranged to actuate a casing engagement means of the casing displacement means.


Abstract: [en] an electronic cigarette includes an outer housing sleeve having an open end and a closed end, with an air inlet positioned towards the closed end. the electronic cigarette further includes a functional insert comprising electrical components and a cartridge seating arranged to receive a removable cartridge, wherein the functional insert is arranged to be introduced through the open end of the outer housing sleeve and is held within the outer housing sleeve. the electronic cigarette further includes an air channel plug arranged within the outer housing sleeve between the closed end of the outer housing sleeve and the functional insert, the air channel plug comprising: an air channel arranged to provide at least a portion of an air flow route connecting the air inlet to the cartridge seating. by providing an air channel plug in the base of the outer housing sleeve at the closed end, protection is provided to the electronic components such that the device is more resistance to accidental damage. furthermore, the air flow route from the air inlet into the device is better defined since the air channel plug blocks air entering the device other than through the air inlet and air channel so that air is correctly delivered to the cartridge seating.

[en]       claims   1. an electronic cigarette comprising an outer housing sleeve having an open end and a closed end, with an air inlet positioned towards the closed end; a functional insert comprising electrical components including a power source and a cartridge seating arranged to receive a removable cartridge, wherein the functional insert is arranged to be introduced through the open end of the outer housing sleeve and is held within the outer housing sleeve; an air channel plug arranged within the outer housing sleeve between the closed end of the outer housing sleeve and the functional insert, the air channel plug comprising: an air channel arranged to provide at least a portion of an air flow route connecting the air inlet to the cartridge seating.
2. the electronic cigarette of claim 1 wherein the air channel plug provides a seal across the cross section of the internal volume of the outer housing sleeve such that air flow into the outer housing sleeve from the air inlet is restricted to passing through the air channel.
3. the electronic cigarette or claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the air channel plug extends from the closed end of the outer housing sleeve over more than 25 percent of the length of the housing sleeve measured from the closed end to the open end.
4. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the air channel plug comprises a resilient deformable material.
5. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the air channel is arranged through the air channel plug such that the airflow route passes through the air channel plug.
6. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the functional insert is configured to contact the air channel plug within the outer housing sleeve.
7. the electronic cigarette of claim 6 wherein the air channel plug is configured to connect to the functional insert within the outer housing sleeve.
8. the electronic cigarette of claim 7 wherein the electronic cigarette further comprises a charging port wherein the charging port is positioned at least partially within the air channel plug and is connected to the power source, thereby providing a connection between the air channel plug and the functional insert.
9. the electronic cigarette of claim 7 or claim 8 wherein the functional insert comprises a pcb and the air channel plug comprises a slot arranged to receive an end of the pcb, thereby providing a connection between the air channel plug and the functional insert.
10. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the air channel plug is configured to engage with the closed end of the housing.
11. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the functional insert comprises a first end positioned at the open end of the housing sleeve and a second end positioned towards the closed end of the housing sleeve, the electronic cigarette further comprising: a mouthpiece hingedly connected to an end of the functional insert positioned at the open end of the housing sleeve.
12. the electronic cigarette according to any preceding claim further comprising: an airflow sensor; an air flow sensor housing comprising an internal cavity arranged to hold the air flow sensor and an airflow through channel separated from the internal cavity; wherein the airflow through channel is arranged to direct incoming air from the air channel of the air channel plug through the airflow sensor housing to the cartridge seating.


Abstract: [en] an outer packet part for e.g. cigarette packaging, comprising: front and back walls parallel to one another and connected in a spaced relationship by top and bottom walls to form an enclosure; wherein: said outer packet part is configured to have an inner packet part disposed therein, and to allow movement of said inner packet part therein between a closed position and an open position; and grip-enhancing means are provided on an outer surface of at least one of said walls to help a user grip the outer packet part while moving the inner packet part.

[en]   claims:   1. an outer packet part (1 1, 21) for packaging (10, 20) comprising: a front wall (18a, 28a), a back wall (18b, 28b), a top wall (15, 25) and a bottom wall (16, 26); said front and back walls being parallel to one another and connected in a spaced relationship by at least said top wall and said bottom wall to form an enclosure; wherein: said outer packet part is configured to have an inner packet part (12, 22) disposed therein, and to allow movement of said inner packet part relative to the outer packet part between a closed position and an open position; and one or more grip-enhancing means (14, 24) are provided on an outer surface of at least one of said walls and are configured to help a user grip the outer packet part while moving the inner packet part relative to the outer packet part.
2. an outer packet part according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the grip-enhancing means is located: substantially within a substantially median section (17a, 17b) of the front and/or back walls; and/or adjacent an edge of the top wall or the back wall.
3. an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the grip-enhancing means comprises a coating having a friction coefficient from 0.2 to 2.0.
4. an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the grip-enhancing means comprises raised features on the outer surface of the outer packet part.
5. an outer packet part according to claim 4, wherein the raised features comprise embossed ribs, lines or dots, or varnish ribs, lines or dots, or extruded or deposited ribs, lines or dots of a particulate and/or synthetic material.
6. an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of said grip-enhancing means regularly spaced from one another at a pitch of at least 0.5 mm, preferably up to 5.0 mm.
7. an outer packet part according to claim 4 or either of claims 5 or 6 as dependent thereon, wherein the grip-enhancing means have a height from 0.02 mm to 0.10 mm.
8. an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, wherein movement of the inner packet part from the open position to the closed position comprises linear movement or rotational movement.
9. an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the grip-enhancing means extends along at least one line inclined relative to at least one longitudinal side of the outer packet part.
10. an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the grip-enhancing means is configured to indicate orientation of the packaging to a user by touch.
 1 1. an outer packet part according to claim 10, wherein said at least one of the grip-enhancing means is configured to indicate orientation by asymmetry: in its shape or in the shape of a group of grip-enhancing means it is comprised in; in its size or the size of a group of grip-enhancing means it is comprised in; in its height or in the height of a group of grip-enhancing means it is comprised in; in its depth or the depth of a group of grip-enhancing means it is comprised in; or in its texture or in the texture of a group of grip-enhancing means it is comprised in.
12. an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, comprising means for reversible connection with the inner packet part configured such that the inner packet part can be removed and replaced.
13. a blank for forming an outer packet part according to any preceding claim, comprising: at least two main panels (18a, 18b, 28a, 28b) for forming the front and back walls; at least one connecting panel (19, 29) between said two main panels and articulated thereon along fold lines; and at least one flap (15a, 15b, 16a, 16b, 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) articulated along a fold line at each longitudinal end of at least one of the two main panels to form the top wall and the bottom wall; wherein at least one of the two main panels or at least one of said flaps comprises the grip-enhancing means on an outer surface thereof.
14. a method of making an outer packet part according to any of claims 1 to 12, comprising folding a blank according to claim 13.
15. packaging (10, 20) comprising an inner packet part and an outer packet part according to any of claims 1 to 12, the inner packet part being disposed within the outer packet part and movable relative to the outer packet part between a closed position and an open position.


Abstract: [en] an electronic cigarette (1) is described which includes a housing (10) comprising an air inlet (17); a vaporiser (60); a pressure sensor (90) configured to activate the vaporiser in response to a sensed change in air pressure; and a pressure sensor housing (80) comprising an internal cavity (81) arranged to hold the pressure sensor. the pressure sensor housing comprises a pressure channel (82) running between the internal cavity and a pressure channel opening (84) on the outer surface of the pressure sensor housing. the pressure channel is arranged to place the pressure sensor in communication with the vaporiser. the pressure sensor housing further comprises a main airflow through channel (83) providing an air flow route between the air inlet and the vaporiser. in this way, because the pressure sensor is housed within a cavity in the pressure sensor housing and because the incoming air flow from the inlet is directed through the main airflow through channel and does not pass over the pressure sensor, the responsiveness of the pressure sensor is increased. in particular, the pressure in the cavity drops rapidly upon user inhalation, triggering the pressure sensor.

[en]       claims   1. an electronic cigarette comprising a housing comprising an air inlet; a vaporiser; a pressure sensor configured to activate the vaporiser in response to a sensed change in air pressure; a pressure sensor housing positioned between the air inlet and vaporiser, the pressure sensor housing comprising an internal cavity arranged to hold the pressure sensor; wherein the pressure sensor housing comprises a pressure channel running between the internal cavity and a pressure channel opening on the outer surface of the pressure sensor housing, the pressure channel arranged to place the pressure sensor in communication with the vaporiser; the pressure sensor housing further comprising: a main airflow through channel providing an air flow route between the air inlet and the vaporiser.
2. the electronic cigarette of claim 1 wherein the pressure channel and main airflow through channel are separated within the pressure sensor housing.
3. the electronic cigarette of claim 1 or claim 2 wherein a first side of the pressure sensor housing faces the vaporiser and a second opposing side of the pressure sensor housing faces the air inlet; wherein the pressure channel opening is on the first side of the pressure sensor housing.
4. the electronic cigarette of claim 3 wherein the main airflow through channel runs through the pressure sensor housing from the second side to the first side.
5. the electronic cigarette of claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the pressure sensor housing forms a seal across the internal volume of the electronic cigarette between the inlet and the vaporiser.
6. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the pressure sensor housing comprises an elastic material.
7. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the vaporiser comprises a vaporiser air inlet wherein the vaporiser air inlet is larger than the housing air inlet.
8. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim further comprising an internal cavity within the housing, the internal cavity positioned between the pressure sensor housing and the vaporiser.
9. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim wherein the pressure sensor comprises a planar pressure sensing surface and the pressure channel is arranged substantially normal to the plane of the pressure sensing surface.
10. the electronic cigarette of claim 9 wherein the main air flow through channel is arranged substantially normal to the plane of the pressure sensing surface.
11. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim further comprising an air inlet tube arranged between the air inlet in the housing and the pressure sensor housing wherein the air inlet tube is connected to the main airflow through channel of the pressure sensor housing such that together the air inlet tube and the main airflow through channel provide an air flow route from the air inlet to the vaporiser.
12. the electronic cigarette of claim 11 wherein the pressure channel opening is provided on a protruding portion of the pressure sensor housing, the protruding portion sleeved within or around the air inlet tube to provide a sealed connection between the air inlet tube and the main airflow through channel of the pressure sensor housing.
13. the electronic cigarette according to any preceding claim wherein the pressure sensor housing comprises one or more lead wire through holes running through the housing for connections between the electrical components of the device to pass through the pressure sensor housing, wherein the holes comprise a film sealing one side of the lead wire through holes to prevent air passing through the lead wire through holes.
14. the electronic cigarette according to any preceding claim further comprising an air channel plug positioned within the housing between the air inlet and the pressure sensor housing wherein the air channel plug comprises an air inlet channel and the air channel plug is arranged to provide a seal across the internal volume of the housing such that air entering the air inlet is restricted to passing through the air channel to the pressure sensor housing.
15. the electronic cigarette of claim 14 wherein the air channel plug extends from an inner surface of the housing at the air inlet to the pressure sensor housing and the air channel connects the air inlet with the main airflow channel of the pressure sensor housing.
16. the electronic cigarette of any preceding claim further comprising a pcb wherein the plane of the pcb is arranged substantially normal to the pressure sensing surface of the pressure sensor.


Abstract: [en] there is provided an aerosol generating system, the system comprising: aerosol generating means; aerosol delivery means; and an aerosol guiding device (1). the aerosol guiding device comprises a chamber having an air inlet (14) and an air outlet (12) and the aerosol delivery means is configured such that aerosol is introduced from the aerosol generating means into the chamber in use. an airflow route is defined from the air inlet to the air outlet so as to convey the aerosol to the air outlet, and the relative dimensions of the air inlet and the air outlet are selected to provide pressure control means for controlling the pressure differential between the air inlet and the air outlet. there is also provided an aerosol guiding device for use in an aerosol generating system, the device comprising: a chamber having an air inlet and an air outlet. aerosol is introduced from an aerosol generating means into the chamber in use, an airflow route is defined from the air inlet to the air outlet so as to convey the aerosol to the air outlet, and the relative dimensions of the air inlet and the air outlet are selected to provide pressure control means for controlling the pressure differential between the air inlet and the air outlet.

[en] 1. an aerosol generating system, the system comprising: aerosol generating means;aerosol delivery means; andan aerosol guiding device,wherein the aerosol guiding device comprises a chamber having an air inlet and an air outlet, the aerosol delivery means being configured such that aerosol is introduced from the aerosol generating means into the chamber in use, wherein an airflow route is defined from the air inlet to the air outlet, and wherein the relative dimensions of the air inlet and the air outlet are selected to provide pressure control means for controlling the pressure differential between the air inlet and the air outlet.
2. the system according to claim 1, wherein the air inlet and the air outlet are of the same dimensions.
3. the system according to claim 1, wherein the chamber comprises an upstream portion that tapers inwardly from the air inlet and a downstream portion that tapers inwardly from the air outlet.
4. the system according to claim 3, wherein the taper angle of the upstream portion of the chamber if provided is between 20 and 40 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the chamber.
5. the system according to claim 1, wherein the pressure control means is configured to provide a pressure differential between the air inlet and the air outlet of between 75 and 110 mmwc in use.
6. the system according to claim 1, wherein the system further comprises an outer shell for housing the chamber of the aerosol guiding device.
7. the system according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol guiding device is insertable and removable from the aerosol generating system.
8. the system according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating means is located outside the device and/or in close proximity to a narrowest part of the chamber.
9. the system according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating means comprises a heater, wherein the heater comprises any one of a ceramic, a coil of wire, inductive heating means, ultrasonic heating means, and piezoelectric heating means.
10. the system according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating means further comprises a wick that is received by the chamber and the wick is in communication with a liquid reservoir.
11. an aerosol guiding device for use in an aerosol generating system, the device comprising: a chamber having an air inlet and an air outlet;wherein aerosol is introduced from an aerosol generating means into the chamber in use,wherein an airflow route is defined from the air inlet to the air outlet so as to convey the aerosol to the air outlet,and wherein the relative dimensions of the air inlet and the air outlet are selected to provide pressure control means for controlling the pressure differential between the air inlet and the air outlet.
12. the device according to claim 11, wherein the air inlet and the air outlet are of the same dimensions.
13. the device according to claims 11, wherein the chamber comprises an upstream portion that tapers inwardly from the air inlet and a downstream portion that tapers inwardly from the air outlet.
14. the device according to claim 13, wherein the taper angle of the upstream portion of the chamber is between 20 and 40 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the chamber.
15. the device according to claim 11, wherein the pressure control means is configured to provide a pressure differential between the air inlet and the air outlet of between 75 and 110 mmwc in use.
16. the system according to claim 1, wherein the air inlet has smaller dimensions than the air outlet or the air inlet has larger dimensions than the air outlet.
17. the system according to claim 3, wherein the taper angle of the downstream portion of the chamber if provided is between 3 and 7 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the chamber.
18. the device according to claim 11, wherein the air inlet has smaller dimensions than the air outlet or the air inlet has larger dimensions than the air outlet.
19. the device according to claim 13, wherein the taper angle of the downstream portion of the chamber is between 3 and 7 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the chamber.


Abstract: [en] the present invention relates aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device (200) comprising an optical reader system (200) and an aerosol generating article (1) extending along a longitudinal axis (3) and comprising at least one indicium (10) containing information about the article (1) arranged on a surface (5) of said article (1). the indicium (10) comprises at least one array of structures having greatest dimensions smaller than 5 micro m that are readable upon illumination by the optical reader system (200), said array of structures being arranged according to an optically readable pattern or code, said optical reader system comprising at least one light source (300, 302, 304, 306) emitting light having wavelengths between 250 nm and 5 micro m the present invention further relates to an aerosol-generating consumable article (1) comprising at least one indicium (10) containing information about the article (1) arranged on its surface. the indicium (10) comprises at least one array of structures having dimensions smaller than 5 micro m that are readable upon illumination by an optical reader system (200).

[en]       claims   1. an aerosol-generating system comprising an optical reader system (200) and an aerosol generating article (1) extending along a longitudinal axis (3) and comprising at least one indicium (10) containing information about the article (1) arranged on a surface (5) of said article (1), wherein the indicium (10) comprises at least one array of structures having greatest dimensions smaller than 5pm that are readable upon illumination by the optical reader system (200), said array of structures being arranged according to an optically readable pattern or code, said optical reader system comprising at least one light source (300, 302, 304, 306) emitting light having wavelengths between 250 nm and 5 pm.
2. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 1, wherein structures have greatest dimensions smaller than 1 pm, preferably smaller than 500 nm, still preferably smaller than 200 nm.
3. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one array of structures are arranged as light reflecting structures and/or light diffractive structures.
4. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said pattern consists in a plurality of light beams provided by said indicium upon the illumination with a light beam of at least a portion of said indicium.
5. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said array of structures is arranged on a support fixed on an outer surface (5) of the aerosol-generating article (1).
6. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 5, wherein said support is a lacquer layer provided on an outer surface (5) of the aerosol-generating article (1).
7. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 6, wherein said outer surface (5) is a surface of a wrapper of said article (1).
8. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein said support is made at least partially of a material chosen from: glasses, t1o2, or hf02, or ta20s, or zr02, or ain, or ai2o3, or zno, or s1o2, or s13n4, or caf2 or mgo, or combinations thereof.
9. the aerosol-generating system according to claims 5 to 7, wherein said support is made at least partially of transparent polymer chosen from: polyethylene terephthalate (pet), polycarbonate (pc), polyethylene naphtholate (pen), polymethyl methacrylate (pmma), polyesters, polyethylene (pe), polypropylene (pp), polyethylene furanoate, polymethyl methacrylate (pmma), polymers based on poly (bis - cyclopentadiene) condensates, colorless polyimide (cp), cellulose, peek polymers, a combination thereof.
10. the aerosol-generating system according to claims 1 or 2, wherein said array of structures is realized on, or inside, a waveguide (100) that is arranged on at least a portion of a circumference of said outer surface (5) of the article (1), said waveguide (100) being configured to guide light and having at least one incoupling surface (110) and at least one outcoupling surface (120).
11. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 10, wherein at least a portion of said waveguide is a leaky waveguide and is arranged to behave, upon illumination with an incident light, as a zero-order filter.
12. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein said incoupling surface (110) and/or said outcoupling surface (120) has an area that is greater than 10 percent, preferably greater than 30 percent, even more preferably greater than 50 percent of a greatest surface area of said support.
13. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein said indicium (10, 11) has a plurality of incoupling surfaces.
14. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein said indicium (10, 11) has a plurality of outcoupling surfaces.
15. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein at least one of the surfaces of said waveguide is arranged, over at least 50 percent of its entire length, as an incoupling surface and/or an outcoupling surface.
16. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein said indicium (10, 11) provides at least two projected light beams (i4’, i5’) upon illumination by at least two different light beams (i4, i5), said two projected light beams having a different projection angle (q1-q4), defined relative to the local normal n of the incidence area of the indicium (10,11).
17. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of optically readable indicia (10, 11, 13).
18. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 17, wherein said optically readable indicia (10, 11, 13) are different from one another.
19. the aerosol-generating system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein said optically readable indicia (10, 11, 13) are arranged according to parallel strips.
20. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein said array of structures is arranged to provide reflected and/or diffracted light upon direct illumination of a predetermined portion of said array by a light beam.
21. the aerosol-generating system according to any one of claims 5 to 20, wherein said support is made of a flexible and at least partially transparent material.
22. the aerosol-generating system according claim 21, wherein said flexible material is resistant to temperatures up to 250 degrees centigrade, preferably up to 300 degrees centigrade, more preferably up to 400 degrees centigrade
23. an aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein further comprising a control unit (250) configured to read and decipher said optically readable pattern or code to determine authenticity of the consumable article.
24. an aerosol generating article (1) extending along a longitudinal axis (3) and comprising at least one indicium (10), containing information about the article (1), arranged on a surface (5) of said article (1), the indicium (10) comprising at least one array of structures having greatest dimensions smaller than 5pm, said array of structures being arranged according to an optically readable pattern or code.


Abstract: [en] the present invention relates to a consumable article and an aerosol generation device for use with the consumable article. the consumable article comprises an aerosol generating substrate and a plurality of magnetic elements which form a pattern representing coded information. the aerosol generation device is configured for reading the code. it comprises a magnetic sensor configured to detect a plurality of signals caused by a plurality of magnetic elements comprised by the consumable article passing the magnetic sensor.

[en]       claims   1. a consumable article for use with an aerosol generation device, the consumable comprising: an aerosol generating substrate arranged in a wrapper; and a plurality of magnetic elements which form a pattern representing coded information.
2. consumable article according to the preceding claim, wherein the magnetic elements include ferromagnetic and/or ferrimagnetic elements.
3. consumable article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of magnetic elements are disposed at an exterior wall of the wrapper.
4. consumable article according to any one of claims l or 2, wherein the plurality of magnetic elements are disposed at an interior wall of the wrapper, facing the aerosol generating substrate.
5. consumable article according to any one of claims l or 2, wherein the plurality of magnetic elements are disposed about an exterior surface and/or within the aerosol generating substrate.
6. consumable article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of magnetic elements comprise a plurality of magnetic rings.
7. consumable article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of magnetic elements form a magnetic spiral, the number of windings of the spiral preferably corresponds to the number of magnetic elements in the plurality of magnetic elements.
8. consumable article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of magnetic elements are formed by one or more magnetic wires.
9. consumable article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the encoded information is based on at least one of the length, width, height, and/or thickness of elements of the plurality of magnetic elements.
10. consumable article according to the preceding claim, wherein the encoded information is further based on at least one of: the distance between neighboring elements of the plurality of magnetic elements, and/or the number of magnetic elements. li.
 11.consumable article according to the preceding claim, wherein the neighboring elements in the plurality of neighboring elements, are equidistantly, symmetrically, asymmetrically or irregularly spaced apart from each other.
12. consumable article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of magnetic elements are disposed along the direction of the consumable which corresponds to the insertion or removal direction of the consumable into or from the aerosol generation device and/or along a circumference of the consumable.
13. aerosol generation device comprising: a cavity for at least partially receiving a consumable article, preferably a consumable according to any one of claims 1 to 12; a heating element configured for applying heat to the cavity; a magnetic sensor, preferably a hall effect sensor; wherein the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a plurality of signals caused by a plurality of magnetic elements comprised by the consumable article passing the magnetic sensor.
14. aerosol generation device according to the preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generation device is configured for controlling the operation of the aerosol generation device based on at least one of the detected number, the detected magnitude, the detected shape, the detected temporal distance and the temporal distribution of the plurality of signals during insertion or removal of the consumable.
15. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the aerosol generation device comprises an outer housing, and the magnetic sensor is provided substantially at an opening of the housing through which the consumable is inserted into or removed from the cavity.
16. aerosol generation device according to the preceding claim, wherein the magnetic sensor is provided, in a direction parallel and/or a direction perpendicular to the direction of insertion or removal of the consumable into or from the aerosol generation device, within 15 mm, preferably within 10 mm, more preferably within 8 mm, even more preferably within 6 mm, even more preferably within 4 mm from the opening of the housing through which the consumable is inserted or removed into and from the cavity.
17. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the magnetic sensor is configured to detect the plurality of signals caused by a plurality of magnetic elements comprised by the consumable passing the magnetic sensor during insertion or removal of the consumable into or from the cavity and/or during rotation of the consumable in the cavity.
18. aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 13 to 17 and a consumable according to any one of claims 1 to 12.


Abstract: [en] a heating apparatus (20) for an aerosol generation device is disclosed comprising a heating element (22) comprising one or more planar sheets of electrically conductive material, where the planar sheet comprises at least one fold (32) and is configured to transport liquid by capillary action in use.

[en] 1. a heating apparatus for an aerosol generation device, the heating apparatus comprising: a heating element comprising one or more planar sheets of electrically conductive material, each comprising at least one fold, where the planar sheet is configured to transport liquid by capillary action in use.
2. the heating apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the electrically conductive material comprises fibres arranged to form a mesh.
3. the heating apparatus according to claims 1 or 2 wherein the at least one fold is across a length or a width of the planar sheet.
4. the heating apparatus according to claims 1, 2 or 3 wherein the folded planar sheet comprises a concertina shape.
5. the heating apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 4 wherein the planar sheet further comprises one or more slots extending inwardly from at least one of each side of the planar sheet.
6. the heating apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the slots are arranged such that the planar sheet comprises a square-wave shape.
7. the heating apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the at least one pair of slots are arranged such that each slot in the pair extends toward the other.
8. the heating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims wherein the planar sheet further comprises one or more holes, and wherein the at least one fold is arranged across a hole.
9. the heating apparatus according to claims 7 and 8 wherein each hole is positioned between each pair of slots.
10. the heating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims further comprising a support positioned along a fold in order to provide structural stability to the planar sheet.
11. the heating apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the support comprises two contact points arranged to allow a current to be applied to the support.
12. the heating apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the support is u-shaped and the planar sheet is folded over the support.
13. the heating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims further comprising: a heating element housing having one or more gaps, the housing configured to accommodate the one or more planar sheets within the housing; anda liquid store arranged outside of the heating element housing, wherein at least a portion of each sheet is arranged so as to interface with the liquid store through the one or more gaps.
14. a cartridge for an aerosol generation device comprising the heating apparatus according any of the claims 1 to 13.
15. an aerosol generation device comprising the heating apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 13.


Abstract: [en] a heating element (20) for an aerosol generation device is disclosed comprising a first electrically conductive component (28) and a second electrically conductive component (30), where the second component (30) has a higher electrical conductivity than the first component (28) and where the first and second components are arranged such that, in use, the second component (30) provides a preferential current path between electrical contact points of the heating element (20).

[en] 1. a heating element for an aerosol generation device, the heating element comprising: two contact points arranged to allow a current to be applied to the heating element in use;a first electrically conductive component; anda second electrically conductive component, the second component having a higher electrical conductivity than the first component, wherein the first and second components are arranged such that, in use, the second component provides a preferential current path across the heating element between the contact points.
2. the heating element according to claim 1 wherein the first and/or second components comprise a mesh of electrically conductive fibres configured to transport liquid through the heating element by capillary action in use.
3. the heating element according to claim 2 where both the first and second components comprise a mesh of electrically conductive fibres and wherein one or more of the following properties differ between the first and second components to provide the difference in conductivity: fibre thickness;porosity of the mesh;material of the electrically conductive fibres;density of the mesh.
4. the heating element according to claim 2 or 3 wherein the first and/or second component comprises a sheet of electrically conductive fibre mesh, the sheet following a serpentine path.
5. the heating element according to any of claims 2 to 4 wherein the first component comprises a sheet of electrically conductive fibre mesh and the second component comprises an electrically conductive wire running through the surrounding mesh.
6. the heating element according to any of claims 2 to 4 wherein the first component comprises a sheet of electrically conductive fibre mesh and the second component comprises a fibrous material woven into sheeting of electrically conductive fibre mesh.
7. the heating element according to any preceding claim, wherein the second component comprises a central layer and the first component comprises two surrounding layers, the central layer of the second component arranged between the surrounding layers of the first component.
8. the heating element according to claim 7 wherein surrounding layers of the first component each comprise a sheet of electrically conductive fibre mesh.
9. the heating element according to claim 8 wherein the central layer comprises a continuous conductive sheet.
10. the heating element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first component comprises a different electrically conductive material to the second component.
11. the heating element according to any preceding claims 1 to 9, wherein the electrically conductive material of the first component is the same as the electrically conductive material of the second component.
12. the heating element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and/or second electrically conductive component is porous.
13. the heating element according to any of the preceding claims wherein the contact points are positioned at a same side of the heating element and the second component is arranged to form a preferential current path which travels out from one contact point over a heating area of the heating element before returning to the other contact point.
14. the heating element according to any of the preceding claims wherein the first component is arranged at an edge region of the heating element and the second component is arranged at a central region, such that the preferential current path provides increased heating at a central region relative to an edge region during use.
15. an aerosol generation device, comprising: the heating element according to any of the preceding claims; and a liquid supply configured to supply a liquid to the heating element to form an aerosol during use.


Abstract: [en] the present invention relates to a heater (1) for an aerosol generating device (100). the heater includes a capillary sheet (10) comprising a sheet of heat conductive fibre mesh configured to provide capillary action in use and a heating element (20) in contact with the sheet of conductive fibre mesh and arranged to heat the sheet of conductive fibre mesh. by using a dedicated heating component, in particular a heating element in contact with the mesh in order to transfer heat to the mesh, the mesh heater material and structure can be configured to optimise the wicking properties and the heating element can be optimised to provide the required heating function.

[en] 1. a heater for an aerosol generating device comprising: a capillary sheet comprising a sheet of heat conductive fibre mesh configured to provide capillary action in use;a heating element in contact with the sheet of heat conductive fibre mesh and arranged to heat the sheet of conductive fibre mesh.
2. the heater of claim 1 wherein the heating element is a resistive heating element comprising two contact points to which a power source may be connected to provide a current through the heating element to heat the heating element.
3. the heater of any preceding claim wherein the heating element is in contact with a portion of the capillary sheet and arranged to preferentially heat the contacted portion of the capillary sheet.
4. the heater of any preceding claim wherein the heating element provides structural support to the capillary sheet.
5. the heater of any preceding claim wherein the heating element is a heating rod.
6. the heater of claim 5 wherein the capillary sheet is folded around the heating rod such that the heating rod provides structural support to the capillary sheet.
7. the heater of any preceding claim wherein the heating element is welded to the capillary sheet at one or more welding contact points.
8. the heater of any preceding claim comprising a plurality of heating elements each in contact with a different position on one or more capillary sheets.
9. an aerosol generating device comprising: the heater of any preceding claim; anda liquid store; whereinone or more peripheral edges of the capillary sheet are in contact with the liquid store such that liquid is drawn from the liquid store through the capillary sheet during use.
10. the aerosol generating device of claim 9 wherein the heating element comprises a u-shaped heating rod and the capillary sheet is folded over a central portion of the u-shaped heating rod, with opposite edges of the capillary sheet extending into the liquid store.
11. the aerosol generating device of claim 9 or 10 wherein the heating element comprises a heating rod and one or more capillary sheets are welded along the length of the heating rod.
12. the aerosol generating device of claim 11 wherein the heating rod has a periodically changing diameter along its length with a plurality of wider diameter portions separated by narrower diameter portions and one or more capillary sheets are welded to the wider diameter portions.
13. the aerosol generating device of claim 11 or 12 wherein the heating rod has a cross-sectional shape comprising a regular polygon defined by three or more flat surfaces wherein one or more capillary sheets are welded to the flat surfaces of the heating rod along its length.
14. the aerosol generating device of any of claims 9 to 13 comprising a tubular heater housing wherein the liquid store surrounds the tubular heater housing; wherein the capillary sheet runs along the length of the tubular heater housing with one or more peripheral edges of the capillary sheet extending radially through a longitudinal gap in the tubular heater housing to interface with the liquid store; andthe heating element is a rod which runs axially through the tubular heater housing along a surface of the capillary sheet.
15. the aerosol generating device of claim 14 comprising two heating rods positioned either side of the capillary sheet to heat opposing sides of the capillary sheet.


Abstract: [en] a heating apparatus for an aerosol generating device, comprising a first and second heating element supported by a housing, wherein the first and second heating elements each comprise a sheet of heating material and are arranged adjacent to each other, extending in the same direction along the length of the housing, a liquid supply configured to supply liquid to the first and second heating elements, an air flow path arranged to transport air over the first and second heating elements.

[en] 1. a heating apparatus for an aerosol generating device, comprising; a first and second heating element supported by a housing, wherein the first and second heating elements each comprise a sheet of heating material and are arranged adjacent to each other, extending in the same direction along the length of the housing; a liquid supply configured to supply liquid to the first and second heating elements; an air flow path arranged to transport air over the first and second heating elements.
2. the heating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid supply at least partially surrounds the housing and is configured to directly interface with the first and second heating element along the length of the housing.
3. the heating apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sheets of heating material each comprise a wicking structure for transporting liquid from the liquid supply by capillary action.
4. the heating apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sheets of heating material each comprise a mesh of conductive fibres.
5. the heating element of claim 4, wherein the mesh is a sintered mesh with a random arrangement of fibres.
6. the heating apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the housing comprises a first portion and a second portion that cooperatively engage along the length of the housing, and wherein the first and second heating elements are supported between the housing portions.
7. the heating apparatus of claim 6, wherein the housing comprises a third portion arranged between the first and second portion, wherein the housing portions cooperatively engage along the length of the housing, wherein the first heating element is supported between the first and second portions, and wherein the second heating element is supported between the second and third portions.
8. the heating apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sheets of heating material are substantially parallel.
9. the heating apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first and second heating elements are arranged to define a gap between the sheets of heating material.
10. the heating apparatus of claim 9, wherein the gap comprises a conducting material and/or a wicking material.
11. the heating apparatus of claim 9, wherein the gap comprises an air gap comprising a portion of the air flow path.
12. the heating apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sheets of heating element each comprise one or more slots extending inwardly from at least one edge of each sheet.
13. the heating apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the sheets of heating material is folded about a fold line, wherein the fold line lies parallel to the length of the housing.
14. the heating apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a support structure extending adjacent to the fold line.
15. the heating apparatus of claim 14, wherein the support structure is configured to conduct electricity to the adjacent sheet of heating material.


Abstract: [en] a cleaning tool (200) for cleaning a heating chamber of an aerosol generation device, wherein the heating chamber comprises a side wall, an end wall, and protrusion that protrudes from a central portion of the end wall into the heating chamber. the cleaning tool comprises a cleaning head (210), and the cleaning head comprises: an inner wipe (211) configured for cleaning the protrusion; and an outer wipe (212) configured for cleaning the end wall.

[en] 1. a cleaning tool for cleaning a heating chamber of an aerosol generation device, wherein the heating chamber comprises a side wall, an end wall, and protrusion that protrudes from a central portion of the end wall into the heating chamber, wherein the cleaning tool comprises a cleaning head, and the cleaning head comprises: an inner wipe configured for cleaning the protrusion; andan outer wipe configured for cleaning the end wall.
2. a cleaning tool according to claim 1, wherein the inner wipe and/or the outer wipe comprises a flexible wipe.
3. a cleaning tool according to claim 2, wherein the outer wipe comprises one or more rigid protrusions and the inner wipe comprises a flexible blade.
4. a cleaning tool according to claim 3, wherein the outer wipe further comprises a base portion attached to the one or more rigid protrusions, and the inner wipe is adapted to attach within the base portion.
5. a cleaning tool according to claim 2, wherein the outer wipe comprises one or more rigid protrusions and a flexible wipe.
6. a cleaning tool according to claim 5, wherein the outer wipe comprises a base portion attached to the one or more rigid protrusions, and the flexible wipe is adapted to attach within the base portion, the outer wipe and the one or more rigid protrusions being arranged such that the outer wipe can extend or bend to reach the end wall.
7. a cleaning tool according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the inner wipe comprises a flexible central blade configured for cleaning the protrusion, the central blade being shorter than the flexible wipe of the outer wipe.
8. a cleaning tool according to claim 7, wherein the central blade and the flexible wipe of the outer wipe are formed as a single flexible element.
9. a cleaning tool according to any of claims 3 to 8, wherein the cleaning tool is for a heating chamber comprising one or more ribs arranged along the side wall around an inner perimeter of the heating chamber, and the one or more rigid protrusions of the outer wipe are spaced to fit past the one or more ribs when the cleaning tool is appropriately aligned.
10. a cleaning tool according to any of claims 3 to 9, wherein the cleaning tool is for a heating chamber comprising one or more ribs arranged along the side wall around an inner perimeter of the heating chamber, and the one or more rigid protrusions of the outer wipe are arranged to rotate alongside the one or more ribs.
11. a cleaning tool according to any of claims 3 to 10, wherein the one or more rigid protrusions are barbs.
12. a cleaning tool according to any preceding claim, comprising a shaft, and arranged such that a user can hold one end of the shaft while using the cleaning head in the heating chamber, the shaft comprising a visual indicator arranged to indicate to the user when the cleaning head is near to the end wall.
13. a cleaning tool according to any preceding claim, further comprising a cap for covering the cleaning head, and a tether attaching the cap to the cleaning head.
14. a cleaning tool according to any preceding claim, comprising a cap for covering the cleaning head, wherein the cap is adapted to releasably attach to the cleaning head: in a first position at which the cleaning head is covered andin a second position at which the cleaning head is not covered and the cap is arranged as a handle or as a handle extension.


Abstract: [en] an electronic cigarette (1) comprises a vaporizing unit (16) and a liquid store (18). the vaporizing unit (16) comprises a plurality of fluidic channels (20) configured to receive liquid from the liquid store (18) and a surface (20a) of the fluidic channels (20) is configured to be heated to vaporize liquid in the fluidic channels (20). the fluidic channels (20) are separated into a plurality of groups (g1 to gi), each group (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20) is thermally connected to a separate heating element (19), and the groups (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20) have different cross-sectional areas.

[en]       claims   1. an electronic cigarette (1) comprising a vaporizing unit (16) and a liquid store (18), wherein: the vaporizing unit (16) comprises a plurality of fluidic channels (20) configured to receive liquid from the liquid store (18), a surface (20a) of the fluidic channels (20) is configured to be heated to vaporize liquid in the fluidic channels (20), the fluidic channels (20) are separated into a plurality of groups (g1 to gi), each group (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20) is thermally connected to a separate heating element (19), and the groups (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20) have different cross-sectional areas.
2. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the length of the fluidic channels (20) in one group is different from the length of the fluidic channels (20) in another group.
3. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a controller (50) configured to selectively operate one or more of the separate heating elements (19) to selectively heat one or more of the corresponding groups (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20).
4. the electronic cigarette according to claim 3, further comprising a control interface (54) configured to allow a user to select different heating profiles and wherein the controller (50) is configured to receive instructions from the control interface (54) and selectively operate one or more of the heating elements (19) corresponding to the selected heating profile.
5. the electronic cigarette according to claim 4, further comprising a communication unit (56) enabling transfer of data from a computing device, said data comprising operating instructions for the heating elements (19).
6. the electronic cigarette according to any of claims 3 to 5, further comprising a cartridge detection unit (60), configured to read an indicium on a cartridge (12) and send instructions to the controller (50) about the type of cartridge (12).
7. the electronic cigarette according to claim 6, wherein the indicium comprises a computer-readable code.
8. the electronic cigarette according to any of claims 3 to 7, wherein the cartridge (12) comprises a conductive label, configured to be measured by the controller (50).
9. the electronic cigarette according to any of claims 3 to 8, wherein the controller (50) is configured to execute a calibration cycle to determine which heating element (19), or group of heating elements (19), should be activated.
10. the electronic cigarette according to claim 9, wherein the controller (50) is configured to execute the calibration cycle by activating all of the heating elements (19) and by measuring the electrical resistance of each heating element (19).
11. the electronic cigarette according to claim 10, wherein the controller (50) is configured to sequentially activate the heating elements (19) to sequentially heat the corresponding groups (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20) and to indicate to a user which group (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20) is being heated, enabling the user to select a preferred heating element (19) or group of heating elements for activation via the control interface (54).
12. the electronic cigarette according to any of claims 3 to 11, wherein the controller (50) is configured to activate a variable number of heating elements (19) in order to regulate the vapor volume.
13. the electronic cigarette according to claim 12, wherein the vapor volume is user-selectable.
14. the electronic cigarette according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the controller (50) is configured to change the number of activated heating elements (19) and corresponding groups (g1 to gi) of fluidic channels (20) in order to provide a consistent vapor volume over time.


Abstract: [en] the present invention relates to a filter for an aerosol-generating article. the filter comprises filter material and at least one flavored filter segment, through which an aerosol stream is passable from a distal to a proximal segment end of said flavored segment. the filter contains at least one capsule and at least one dehydrated flavoring agent that is distributed at least partially inside said flavored segment. the present invention also relates to a method to produce a filter segment comprising the steps of: a. providing a filter material, preferably consisting of at least one acetate, b. producing at least one dehydrated flavoring agent, c. impregnating the filter material with at least one dehydrated flavoring agent and d. plasticizing the filter material.

[en] 1. a filter (10) for an aerosol-generating article (1), comprising at least one flavored filter segment (11) containing filter material (12), through which an aerosol stream (6) is passable from a distal (14) to a proximal (13) segment end of said flavored segment (11),characterized in that it comprises at least one capsule (20) arranged in said filter material (12) and at least one dehydrated flavoring agent (15) that is distributed at least partially inside said flavored segment (11).
2. a filter (10) according to claim 1,characterized in that the flavoring agent (15) is a powder.
3. a filter(10) according to any one of the preceding claims,characterized in that said capsule (20) is spaced from the proximal (13) segment end along a longitudinal direction (7) of the filter.
4. a filter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims,characterized in that said capsule (20) comprises a liquid substance and allows the release of said liquid substance by activation.
5. a filter(10) according to claim 4,characterized in that said liquid substance comprises an aqueous solution.
6. a filter (10) according to claim 4 or 5,characterized in that, said liquid substance comprises a flavor solved in a liquid.
7. a filter (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 6,characterized in that said capsule (20) allows the release of said substance in a specific direction (8) with respect to the longitudinal direction (7) of the filter.
8. a filter (10) according to any of previous claims,characterized in that the filter (10) and/or the capsule (20) has a circular or oval cross section.
9. a filter (10) according to any of previous claims,characterized in that the filter comprises a carbon filter segment (30) containing activated carbon (31).
10. an aerosol-generating article (1), comprising an aerosol-generating material segment having a proximal end and a distal end and a filter according to any one of claims 1 to 9 attached at the proximal end of the aerosol-generating material segment.
11. an aerosol-generating article according to claim 10, characterized in that the aerosol-generating material segment comprises tobacco.
12. method to produce a flavored filter segment (11) for a filter (10) according to any of claims 1-9 comprising the steps of: a. providing a filter material (12), preferably consisting of cellulose acetate,b. providing at least one dehydrated flavoring agent (15),c. impregnating the filter material (12) with at least one dehydrated flavoring agent (15),d. forming a rod from the filter material (12) impregnated in step c.e. cutting the rod into individual flavored segments (11).
13. method to produce a flavored filter segment (11) according to claim 12,characterized in that impregnation of the filter material (12) with at least one dehydrated flavoring agent (15) takes place just before or after the addition of a plasticizer to the filter material (12) during the production process of the filter rod.
14. method to produce a flavored filter segment according to any one of claims 12-13,characterized in that the flavoring agent (15) comprises a powder.
15. method to produce a filter segment according to any one of claims 12-14,characterized in that during step d. a plurality of capsules (20) are periodically incorporated into the filter rod (11) and each cut flavored segment (11) comprises at least one capsule arranged therein.


Abstract: [en] a package for smoking articles is disclosed comprising an inner container (4, 104) and an outer container (6, 106). the inner container is slidable relative to the outer container, and the inner container includes at least one compartment for holding a plurality of smoking articles. a slide rail can be provided as a slot (10) in the inner container (4) or as a folded flap (110) on the outer container (106). a tab can be provided on the outer container or a tab (116) can be provided on the inner container for sliding on the slide rail. the sliding interaction between the tab (116) and the slot (10) or flap (110) is provided inwardly of an outer wall (17, 117) of the outer container (6, 106).

[en]       claims   1. a package for smoking articles, the package comprising:   an outer container having an outer wall;   an inner container that is movable relative to the outer container, wherein the inner container is provided inwardly of the outer wall and comprises at least one compartment for holding a plurality of smoking articles;   a slide rail provided on one of the outer container and the inner container, and a tab provided on the other of the outer container and the inner container, wherein the tab is configured to slide with respect to the slide rail, and the slide rail and tab provide, in respective relative positions, a closed position for the inner container, and first and second open positions;   wherein the slide rail and the tab are provided inwardly of the outer wall of the outer container.
2. the package of claim 1, wherein the slide rail is provided by a slot in one of the outer container and the inner container, and the tab is arranged to be received in the slot.
3. the package of claim 1, wherein the slide rail is provided by a folded flap on one of the outer container and the inner container.
4. the package of any of the preceding claims, wherein the tab is arranged to loop over the slide rail in order to engage with the slide rail.
5. the package of any of the preceding claims, wherein the slide rail and tab are biased together.
6. the package of any of claims 3 to 5, wherein the slide rail comprises a major surface which is angled relative to the outer wall of the outer container.
7. the package of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first open position is reached by sliding the inner container in a first direction from the closed position, relative to the outer container, and wherein the second open position is reached by sliding the inner container in a second direction from the closed position, relative to the outer container, wherein the first and second directions are opposite to one another.
8. the package of claim 7, wherein the slide rail comprises first and second limit stops for limiting movement of the tab relative to the rail between the first and second open positions.
9. the package of any of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the slide rail is less than the width of the outer container or the inner container, on which the slide rail is provided.
10. a blank for forming a container for a smoking article package, comprising: an outer surface;   two major longitudinal panels, a base panel, and at least one of (i) a plurality of minor longitudinal side panels and (ii) a top panel, where the panels can be assembled to form a container for holding smoking articles;   wherein at least one major longitudinal panel comprises a tab projecting from the outer surface of the major longitudinal panel.
 1 1. the blank of claim 10, wherein the tab is formed by cutting.
12. the blank of any of claims 10 and 1 1, wherein the at least one major longitudinal panel comprising the tab is double-layered.
13. the blank of any of claims 10 to 12, comprising a circumferential contour extending around the blank, and wherein edges of the tab form part of the circumferential contour.
14. a blank for forming a container for a smoking article package, comprising: two major longitudinal panels, a base panel, and at least one of (i) a plurality of minor longitudinal side panels and (ii) a top panel, where the panels can be assembled to form a container for holding smoking articles;   wherein at least one major longitudinal panel comprises a slide rail.
15. the blank of claim 14, further comprising reinforcement panels to form at least one double-layered major longitudinal panel, wherein one of the reinforcement panels comprises a folded flap that forms the slide rail.


Abstract: [en] the present invention provides a method for assessing a product (c), especially a smoking article or a filter element therefor, to determine product quality and/or product integrity, the method comprising the steps of: passing a gas sample (g) through the product (c); directing the gas sample (g) to a sensor assembly (s) downstream of the product (c) for detecting at least one flavour compound (x); and analysing the gas sample (g) with the sensor assembly (s) to detect the at least one flavour compound (x) in the gas sample (g). the invention furthermore provides a system (1) for assessing a product (c), especially a smoking article or a smoking article filter element, to determine product quality and/or product integrity, comprising: holder means (h) for holding the product (c) in a testing zone (2) having a gas inlet (i) to a gas outlet (o); means for providing or generating flow of a gas sample (g) through the testing zone (2) from the inlet (i) to the outlet (o); and a sensor assembly (s) arranged downstream of the testing zone (2) to which the gas sample (g) is directed for detecting a flavour compound (x) in the gas sample (g).

[en] a method for assessing a product (c), especially a smoking article or a filter element therefor, to determine product quality and/or product integrity, the method comprising the steps of: passing a gas sample (g) through or around the product (c); directing the gas sample (g) to a sensor assembly (s) downstream of the product (c) for detecting at least one flavour compound (x); and analysing the gas sample (g) with the sensor assembly (s) to detect the at least one flavour compound (x) in the gas sample (g).
a method according to claim 1, wherein the step of analysing the gas sample (g) with the sensor assembly (s) includes establishing a response signal from the sensor assembly (s) and comparing the response signal with a reference signal to detect a presence of the at least one flavour component (x) in the gas sample (g).
a method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the step of passing the gas sample (g) through the product (c) comprises: holding the product (c) in a testing zone (2) between a gas inlet (i) and a gas outlet (o); and generating a flow or stream of the gas sample (g) through the testing zone (2) from the gas inlet (i) to the gas outlet (o).
a method according to claim 3, wherein the step of generating a flow or stream of the gas sample (g) through the testing zone (2) comprises: introducing pressurized gas at the gas inlet (i) of the testing zone (2); and/or connecting the gas outlet (o) of the testing zone (2) to an underpressure or vacuum source.
5. a method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the step of passing the gas sample (g) through the product (c) comprises streaming the gas sample (g) through the product (c) at a flow rate in the range of about 0.1 l/min to about 20 l/min, preferably in the range of about 5 l/min to 15 l/min.
6. a method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a step of: diluting the gas sample (g) downstream of the product (c) before the step of analysing the gas sample (g) with the sensor assembly (s); and/or heating the gas sample (g) downstream of the product (c) before the step of analysing the gas sample (g) with the sensor assembly (s).
7. a method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a step of regenerating a sensor (s1, s2, s3) of the sensor assembly (s) after detecting the at least one flavour compound (x) in the gas sample (g); wherein the step of regenerating the sensor (s1, s2, s3) preferably includes passing a clean gas (cg) to that sensor.
8. a method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor assembly (s) comprises at least one sensor (s1, s2, s3) selected from the group of: metal oxide sensors, thermo-conductivity sensors, and flame- ionization sensors.
9. a method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor assembly (s) comprises a plurality of sensors (s1, s2, s3), and wherein the step of directing the gas sample (g) to the sensor assembly (s) comprises switching a flow path of the gas flow (g) from one sensor (s1, s2, s3) to another sensor (s1, s2, s3) after detecting the flavour compound (x) in the gas sample (g).
10. a system (1) for assessing a product (c), especially a smoking article or a smoking article filter element, to determine product quality and/or product integrity, comprising: holder means (h) for holding the product (c) in a testing zone (2) having a gas inlet (i) to a gas outlet (o); means for providing or generating flow of a gas sample (g) through the testing zone (2) from the inlet (i) to the outlet (o); and a sensor assembly (s) arranged downstream of the testing zone (2) to which the gas sample (g) is directed for detecting a flavour compound (x) in the gas sample (g).
11. a system (1) according to claim 10, wherein the sensor assembly (s) comprises at least one sensor (s1, s2, s3) and a signal processing device configured to establish a response signal from the sensor (s1, s2, s3) and to compare the response signal with a reference signal for detecting the presence of the flavour compound in the gas sample (g) from the outlet (o) of testing zone (6).
a system (1) according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the sensor assembly (s) comprises at least one sensor (s1, s2, s3) selected from the group consisting of: metal oxide sensors, such as tin oxide sensors, thermo- conductivity sensors, and flame-ionization sensors.
a system (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the means for generating the flow of the gas sample (g) through the testing zone (2) comprises a pressurized sample gas connected for introduction at the gas inlet (i) of the testing zone (2) and/or an under-pressure or a suction applied at the gas outlet (o) of the testing zone (2).
a system (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the holder means (h) for holding the product (c) comprises a first holder member (h1) at the inlet (i) of the testing zone (2) and a second holder member (h2) at the outlet (o) of the testing zone (2), wherein the first and second holder members (h1, h2) preferably include one or more sealing elements (4) for engaging and sealing around the product (c).
15. a system (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 14, further comprising: means for diluting the gas sample (g) downstream of the testing zone (2) and upstream of the sensor assembly (s); and/or at least one heater (he) for heating the gas sample (g) downstream of the testing zone (2) and upstream of the sensor assembly (s).
16. a system (1) according to any of claims 10 to 15, further comprising means for regenerating each sensor (s1, s2, s3) in the sensor assembly (s), the regenerating means preferably comprising means for supplying air, oxygen and/or nitrogen to each sensor (s1, s2, s3).