SMOKING SUBSTITUTE APPARATUS

Abstract

A substrate for a reservoir having an aerosol former stored therein, the substrate comprising: a property modifying agent disposed on the substrate, wherein the substrate is configured to be received in the reservoir to contact the aerosol former, so as to facilitate a release of the property modifying agent from the substrate to the aerosol former, and wherein the substrate is insoluble in the aerosol former.

Claims

1. A smoking substitute apparatus, comprising: a substrate for a reservoir having an aerosol former stored therein, the substrate comprising: a property-modifying agent disposed on the substrate; wherein the substrate is configured to be received in the reservoir to contact the aerosol former, so as to facilitate a release of the property-modifying agent from the substrate to the aerosol former; and wherein the substrate is insoluble in the aerosol former.

2. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 1, wherein the property-modifying agent is configured to be deposited on a surface of the substrate.

3. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 1, wherein the substrate is coated in a soluble coating containing the property-modifying agent.

4. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises an absorbent paper.

5. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 1, wherein the substrate is configured to be removably received in the reservoir.

6. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 1, wherein an amount of property-modifying agent releasable to the aerosol former corresponds to a predetermined period of time the substrate is received in the reservoir.

7. The smoking substitute apparatus substrata of claim 1, wherein the substrate is configured to be received in a reservoir of a smoking substitute apparatus.

8. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 1, wherein the property-modifying agent comprises flavorant and/or colorant.

9. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a reservoir for receiving the substrate, the reservoir configured to store an aerosol former therein, the reservoir comprising an opening for providing access to the substrate as it extends into the reservoir to contact the aerosol former.

10. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 9, wherein the reservoir comprises a closure for closing the opening, wherein the closure is configured to open to provide access for the substrate.

11. The smoking substitute apparatus of claim 10, wherein the closure comprises a valve having a resilient member for forming a peripheral seal with the substrate as it extends through the opening.

12. (canceled)

13. A smoking substitute kit comprising: a substrate for a reservoir having an aerosol former stored therein, the substrate comprising: a property-modifying agent disposed on the substrate; wherein the substrate is configured to be received in the reservoir to contact the aerosol former, so as to facilitate a release of the property-modifying agent from the substrate to the aerosol former, and wherein the substrate is insoluble in the aerosol former; and the reservoir, wherein the reservoir is configured to store an aerosol former therein, the reservoir comprising an opening for providing access to the substrate as it extends into the reservoir to contact the aerosol former.

14. A method comprising: inserting a substrate into an opening of a reservoir so that the substrate extends into the reservoir and contacts an aerosol former, wherein the aerosol former is a liquid aerosol former, and wherein the substrate has an aerosol former stored therein, the substrate comprising: a property-modifying agent disposed on the substrate; wherein the substrate is configured to be received in the reservoir to contact the aerosol former, so as to facilitate a release of the property-modifying agent from the substrate to the aerosol former, and wherein the substrate is insoluble in the aerosol former.

15. The smoking substitute kit of claim 13, wherein the aerosol former is a liquid aerosol former.

16.-312. (canceled)

313. The method of claim 14, wherein the reservoir is configured to store an aerosol former therein, the reservoir comprising an opening for providing access to the substrate as it extends into the reservoir to contact the aerosol former.

314. The method of claim 313, wherein the reservoir comprises a closure for closing the opening, wherein the closure is configured to open to provide access for the substrate.

315. The method of claim 314, wherein the closure comprises a valve having a resilient member for forming a peripheral seal with the substrate as it extends through the opening.

Description

SUMMARY OF THE FIGURES

[1059] So that the disclosure may be understood, and so that further aspects and features thereof may be appreciated, embodiments illustrating the principles of the disclosure will now be discussed in further detail with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[1060] FIG. 1A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment of the first mode, in an engaged position.

[1061] FIG. 1B is a front view of smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the first mode in a disengaged position.

[1062] FIG. 1C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the first mode.

[1063] FIG. 2A is a section view of a substrate and a smoking substitute apparatus according to a second embodiment of the first mode.

[1064] FIG. 2B is a section view of the substrate being received in smoking substitute apparatus of the second embodiment of the first mode.

[1065] FIGS. 3A and 3B are respectively section views of exemplary embodiments of the first mode of various substrates and their corresponding openings.

[1066] FIG. 4A is a section view of a substrate and a smoking substitute apparatus according to a third embodiment of the first mode.

[1067] FIG. 4B is a section view of the substrate being received in smoking substitute apparatus of the third embodiment of the first mode.

[1068] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a substrate being received in a container of a fourth embodiment of the first mode.

[1069] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the process of producing a substrate according to a fifth embodiment of the first mode.

[1070] FIG. 7A is a front view of a smoking substitute system according to an embodiment of the second mode of the disclosure, in an engaged position.

[1071] FIG. 7B is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of the second mode of the smoking substitute system of FIG. 7A in a disengaged position.

[1072] FIG. 7C is a section view of a consumable of the smoking substitute system of FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment of the second mode of the disclosure.

[1073] FIG. 7D is a front view of the consumable of FIG. 7C.

[1074] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional side view of a sticker according to an embodiment of the second mode of the disclosure.

[1075] FIG. 8B is a top view of the sticker of FIG. 8A.

[1076] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view a flavorant-containing microcapsule that may be included in in a sticker that is an embodiment of the second mode of the disclosure.

[1077] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional schematic view of packaging according to an embodiment of the third mode of the disclosure.

[1078] FIG. 10B is an image of the packaging of FIG. 10A.

[1079] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of packaging according to another embodiment of the third mode of the disclosure.

[1080] FIG. 12 is an image of packaging according to another embodiment of the third mode of the disclosure.

[1081] FIG. 13A is a front view of a smoking substitute system that may be received in packaging of the third mode of the disclosure, the smoking substitute system being in an engaged position.

[1082] FIG. 13B is a front view of the smoking substitute system of FIG. 13A in a disengaged position.

[1083] FIG. 13C is a cross-sectional schematic view of a consumable of the smoking substitute system of FIGS. 13A and 13B.

[1084] FIG. 14A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment of the fourth mode, in an engaged position.

[1085] FIG. 14B is a front view of the smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the fourth mode in a disengaged position.

[1086] FIG. 14C is a detailed section view of the smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the fourth mode.

[1087] FIG. 14D is a further detailed section view of the smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the fourth mode during engagement with a receptacle.

[1088] FIG. 14E is a further detailed section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the fourth mode engaged with a receptacle.

[1089] FIG. 15 is section view of a smoking substitute apparatus according to a second embodiment of the fourth mode.

[1090] FIG. 16A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment of the fifth mode, in an engaged position.

[1091] FIG. 16B is a front view of smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the fifth mode in a disengaged position.

[1092] FIG. 16C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the fifth mode.

[1093] FIG. 17A is a section view of a capsule of a second embodiment of the fifth mode.

[1094] FIG. 17B is a front view of the capsule being received in a smoking substitute apparatus of the second embodiment of the fifth mode.

[1095] FIG. 17C illustrates a method of the fifth mode of releasing property modifying agent in the smoking substitute apparatus.

[1096] FIG. 17D illustrates another method of the fifth mode of releasing property modifying agent in the smoking substitute apparatus.

[1097] FIG. 18 illustrates a capsule being inserted into the smoking substitute apparatus of another embodiment of the fifth mode.

[1098] FIGS. 19A to 19C illustrates and exemplary embodiment of the fifth mode of the use of a dispenser for dispensing a capsule to a smoking substitute apparatus.

[1099] FIG. 20A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment of the sixth mode, in an engaged position.

[1100] FIG. 20B is a front view of smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the sixth mode in a disengaged position.

[1101] FIG. 20C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the sixth mode in a first position.

[1102] FIG. 20D is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the sixth mode in a second position.

[1103] FIG. 21A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment of the seventh mode of the disclosure, in an engaged position.

[1104] FIG. 21B is a front view of the smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the seventh mode in a disengaged position.

[1105] FIG. 21C is a cross-sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the seventh mode.

[1106] FIG. 22 is a schematic side view of a smoking substitute apparatus according to an embodiment of the seventh mode of the disclosure.

[1107] FIG. 23 is an illustration of textured outer surfaces that may be included on a mouthpiece according to an embodiment of the seventh mode of the disclosure.

[1108] FIGS. 24A-24C show schematic cross-sectionals views of a flavorant dispenser according to an embodiment of the seventh mode of the disclosure, illustrating a process of dispensing a flavorant onto a mouthpiece according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[1109] FIGS. 25A and 25B show top views of an engagement portion of a mouthpiece according to embodiments of the seventh mode of the disclosure.

[1110] FIG. 26A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment of the eighth mode, in an engaged position.

[1111] FIG. 26B is a front view of smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the eighth mode in a disengaged position.

[1112] FIG. 26C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the smoking substitute system of FIGS. 26B and 26C.

[1113] FIG. 27 is a front view of the smoking substitute apparatus according to a second embodiment of the eighth mode.

[1114] FIG. 28 is a front view of the smoking substitute apparatus according to a third embodiment of the eighth mode.

[1115] FIGS. 29A, 29B and 29C show sectional views of a dispenser according to a fourth embodiment of the eighth mode.

[1116] FIG. 30A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment, in an engaged position.

[1117] FIG. 30B is a front view of smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the ninth mode in a disengaged position.

[1118] FIG. 30C is a section view of an aerosol delivery device of the first embodiment of the ninth mode in a first position.

[1119] FIG. 30D is a section view of an aerosol delivery device of the first embodiment of the ninth mode in a second position.

[1120] FIG. 30E is a section view of an aerosol delivery device of the first embodiment of the ninth mode in a third position.

[1121] FIGS. 31A and 31B are schematics depicting a valve according to a second embodiment of the ninth mode.

[1122] FIGS. 32A and 32B are schematics depicting a valve according to a third embodiment of the ninth mode.

[1123] FIGS. 33A and 33B are schematics depicting a valve according a fourth embodiment of the ninth mode.

[1124] FIG. 34 is a front view of a smoking substitute device of the tenth mode and a main body in an engaged position.

[1125] FIG. 35 is a front view of a smoking substitute device of the tenth mode and a main body in a disengaged position.

[1126] FIG. 36 is a section view of a smoking substitute device of the tenth mode.

[1127] FIG. 37 is a section view of a main body of a smoking substitute system of the tenth mode comprising a heater.

[1128] FIG. 38 is a section view of an exemplary flavorant reservoir of the tenth mode having a wick extending into the fluid passage of a smoking substitute device.

[1129] FIG. 39 is a section view of an exemplary flavorant reservoir of the tenth mode having a fluid-permeable surface forming a peripheral wall of the fluid passage of a smoking substitute device.

[1130] FIG. 40 is an end-on view of an exemplary flavorant reservoir of the tenth mode having a plurality of bores extending therethrough.

[1131] FIG. 41 is an enlarged section view of a section of a flavored article of the tenth mode.

[1132] FIG. 42 is a section view of an exemplary flavor pod of the tenth mode having a porous wick.

[1133] FIG. 43 is a section view of an exemplary flavor pod of the tenth mode having a fluid-permeable surface.

[1134] FIG. 44 is an end-on view of an exemplary flavor pod of the tenth mode having a plurality of bores extending therethrough.

[1135] FIG. 45 is a front view of a smoking substitute device, main body, and flavor part of the tenth mode in an engaged position.

[1136] FIG. 46 is a front view of a smoking substitute device, main body and flavor part of the tenth mode in a disengaged position.

[1137] FIG. 47 is a section view of a smoking substitute device of the tenth mode comprising a heater and a flavorant reservoir.

[1138] FIG. 48A is a front view of a smoking substitute system of the eleventh mode in an engaged position.

[1139] FIG. 48B is a front view of the smoking substitute system of FIG. 48A in a disengaged position.

[1140] FIG. 48C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the eleventh mode.

[1141] FIG. 49 is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus having a flavor delivery apparatus according to an embodiment of the eleventh mode.

[1142] FIG. 50 is an enlarged section view of a flavor delivery apparatus according to an embodiment of the eleventh mode.

[1143] FIG. 51A is a front view of a smoking substitute system of the twelfth mode in an engaged position.

[1144] FIG. 51B is a front view of the smoking substitute system of the twelfth mode in a disengaged position.

[1145] FIG. 51C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the twelfth mode.

[1146] FIG. 52 is a front view of a smoking substitute device of the twelfth mode having a flavor delivery article.

[1147] FIG. 53 is a partial side section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the twelfth mode having a flavor delivery article.

[1148] FIG. 54A is a front view of a smoking substitute system of the thirteenth mode in an engaged position.

[1149] FIG. 54B is a front view of the smoking substitute system of FIG. 54A in a disengaged position.

[1150] FIG. 54C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the thirteenth mode.

[1151] FIG. 55 is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of an embodiment of the thirteenth mode.

[1152] FIG. 56 is an enlarged section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of an embodiment of the thirteenth mode.

[1153] FIG. 57A is a front view of a smoking substitute apparatus, according to a first embodiment of the fourteenth mode of the disclosure, in an engaged position.

[1154] FIG. 57B is a front view of smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the fourteenth mode in a disengaged position.

[1155] FIG. 57C is a section view of a cartridge according to an embodiment of the fourteenth mode.

[1156] FIG. 58 is schematic cross-sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus according to an embodiment of the fourteenth mode of the disclosure.

[1157] FIG. 59 is a diagrammatic representation of a smoking substitute system according to an embodiment of the fourteenth mode of the disclosure.

[1158] FIG. 60 is a front view of a smoking substitute device of the fifteenth mode and a main body in an engaged position.

[1159] FIG. 61 is a front view of a smoking substitute device of the fifteenth mode and a main body in a disengaged position.

[1160] FIG. 62 is a section view of a smoking substitute device of the fifteenth mode.

[1161] FIG. 63 is a section view of a smoking substitute device of the fifteenth mode comprising a flavorant reservoir.

[1162] FIG. 64 is a section view of a main body of a smoking substitute system of the fifteenth mode comprising a fluid passage therethrough.

[1163] FIG. 65 is a section view of an exemplary flavorant reservoir of the fifteenth mode having a wick extending into the fluid passage of a smoking substitute device.

[1164] FIG. 66 is a section view of an exemplary flavorant reservoir of the fifteenth mode having a fluid-permeable surface forming a peripheral wall of the fluid passage of a smoking substitute device.

[1165] FIG. 67 is an end-on view of an exemplary flavorant reservoir of the fifteenth mode having a plurality of bores extending therethrough.

[1166] FIG. 68 is an enlarged section view of a section of a flavored article of the fifteenth mode.

[1167] FIG. 69 is a section view of an exemplary flavor pod of the fifteenth mode having a porous wick.

[1168] FIG. 70 is a section view of an exemplary flavor pod of the fifteenth mode having a fluid-permeable surface.

[1169] FIG. 71 is an end-on view of an exemplary flavor pod of the fifteenth mode having a plurality of bores extending therethrough.

[1170] FIG. 72 is a front view of a smoking substitute device, main body, and flavor part of the fifteenth mode in an engaged position.

[1171] FIG. 73 is a front view of a smoking substitute device, main body and flavor part of the fifteenth mode in a disengaged position.

[1172] FIG. 74A is a front view of a smoking substitute system, according to a first embodiment of the sixteenth mode, in an engaged position.

[1173] FIG. 74B is a front view of smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of the sixteenth mode in a disengaged position.

[1174] FIG. 74C is a section view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the first embodiment of the sixteenth mode.

[1175] FIG. 75A is a front view of a second embodiment of the sixteenth mode of a smoking substitute system with a consumable of the system engaged with a device of the system.

[1176] FIG. 75B is a front view of the second embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the smoking substitute system with the consumable of the system disengaged from the device.

[1177] FIG. 75C is a schematic of the consumable of the second embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the substitute smoking system.

[1178] FIG. 76A is a sectional view of a flavor delivery article, in the form of a capsule, according to an embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the present disclosure.

[1179] FIG. 76B is a sectional view of a flavor delivery article, in the form of a composite sheet, according to another embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the present disclosure.

[1180] FIG. 77 is a sectional view of a flavor delivery article, in the form of a tablet, according to another embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the present disclosure.

[1181] FIG. 78 is a sectional view of a flavor delivery article, in the form of a substrate product, according to another embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the present disclosure.

[1182] FIG. 79 is a sectional view of a flavor delivery article, in the form of a solid/liquid suspension, according to another embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the present disclosure.

[1183] FIG. 80 is a sectional view of a flavor delivery article, in the form of a porous flavor delivery article, according to another embodiment of the sixteenth mode of the present disclosure.

[1184] FIG. 81 shows cross-sectional views of possible flavor delivery article carrying substrate shape profiles of the sixteenth mode.

[1185] FIG. 82 is sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the sixteenth mode having a thin, flat substrate (e.g., 1 mm thick) that is situated in the passage above the vaporizer engine.

[1186] FIGS. 83A to 83E are perspective views of five flavor delivery article of the sixteenth mode carrying substrate shapes.

[1187] FIG. 84 is a side view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the sixteenth mode having a substrate that protrudes from the passage of the smoking substitute apparatus (i.e., it is not fully contained within the smoking substitute apparatus) and through the outlet.

[1188] FIG. 85 is a sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the sixteenth mode having a flavor delivery article on a cylindrical substrate in the passage.

[1189] FIG. 86 is a sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of the sixteenth mode having a flavor delivery article applied directly to the surface of the passage, such as at the positions indicated by the arrows and therebetween.

[1190] FIG. 87 is a front view of an exemplary smoking substitute device of the seventeenth mode and main body in an engaged position.

[1191] FIG. 88 is a front view of the smoking substitute device and main body of FIG. 87 in a disengaged position.

[1192] FIG. 89 is a section view of an exemplary smoking substitute device of the seventeenth mode.

[1193] FIG. 90 is a front view of the exemplary smoking substitute device and main body illustrated in FIG. 87 in combination with a flavored article according to the present disclosure, the smoking substitute device being in an engaged position with the main body.

[1194] FIG. 91 is a front view of the smoking substitute device and main body illustrated in FIG. 90 in a disengaged position.

[1195] FIG. 92 is a section view of the smoking substitute device illustrated in FIG. 89 in combination with a flavored article according to the present disclosure.

[1196] FIG. 93 is an end on view of an exemplary flavored article in accordance with the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, the flavored article comprising a single flavorant.

[1197] FIG. 94 is a section view of a part of a flavored article in accordance with the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, wherein the flavorant is contained within pores in the substrate.

[1198] FIG. 95 is a section view of a part of a flavored article in accordance with the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, wherein the flavorant is coated on the substrate.

[1199] FIG. 96 is an end on view of an exemplary flavored article in accordance with the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, the flavored article comprising two distinct flavorants.

[1200] FIG. 97 is a section view of an exemplary smoking substitute system according to the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, and having a peripheral slot or groove for securing a flavored article in place.

[1201] FIG. 98 is a section view of the smoking substitute system illustrated in FIG. 95, with the flavored article in place.

[1202] FIG. 99 is a section view of an exemplary smoking substitute system according to the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, and having a projecting lip or shoulder for securing a flavored article in place.

[1203] FIG. 100 is a section view of the smoking substitute system illustrated in FIG. 97, with the flavored article in place.

[1204] FIG. 101 is a section view of an exemplary smoking substitute system according to the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, and having a clip or clasp for securing a flavored article in place.

[1205] FIG. 102 is a section view of the smoking substitute system illustrated in FIG. 99, with the flavored article in place.

[1206] FIG. 103 is a section view of an exemplary smoking substitute system according to the seventeenth mode of the present disclosure, and having a part of the outer casing extending across a peripheral groove or slot for securing a flavored article in place.

[1207] FIG. 104 is a section view of the smoking substitute system illustrated in FIG. 103, with the flavored article in place.

[1208] FIGS. 105A to 105C show a general smoking substitute system of the eighteenth mode configured to provide an e-liquid to a user.

[1209] FIG. 106A is a front view of a second embodiment of the eighteenth mode of a smoking substitute system with a consumable of the system engaged with a device of the system.

[1210] FIG. 106B is a front view of the second embodiment of the eighteenth mode of the smoking substitute system with the consumable of the system disengaged from the device.

[1211] FIG. 106C is a schematic of the consumable of the second embodiment of the eighteenth mode of the substitute smoking system.

[1212] FIG. 107 is a drawing of a smoking substitute apparatus of the eighteenth mode having a flavorant-containing element in the form of a visual graphic printed thereon.

[1213] FIGS. 108A to 108C show a general smoking substitute system of the nineteenth mode configured to provide an e-liquid to a user.

[1214] FIG. 109A is a front view of a second embodiment of the nineteenth mode of a smoking substitute system with a consumable of the system engaged with a device of the system.

[1215] FIG. 109B is a front view of the second embodiment of the nineteenth mode of the smoking substitute system with the consumable of the system disengaged from the device.

[1216] FIG. 109C is a schematic of the consumable of the second embodiment of the nineteenth mode of the substitute smoking system.

[1217] FIG. 110 shows a close-up view of a smoking substitute device of the nineteenth mode having a recess at its mouthpiece end.

[1218] FIG. 111 shows a smoking substitute kit of the nineteenth mode including a pen and a smoking substitute device.

[1219] FIG. 112 shows a smoking substitute kit of the nineteenth mode including a flavorant applicator and a smoking substitute device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[1220] Aspects and embodiments of the various mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the various modes will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1221] First Mode: A Substrate for Releasing a Property Modifying Agent to an Aerosol Former Stored in a Reservoir

[1222] FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101. The system 101 comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102 of the system 101, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103 (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101 is a closed system.

[1223] As is apparent from FIGS. 1A and 1B, the consumable 103 is configured to engage the main body 102. FIG. 1A shows the main body 102 and the consumable 103 in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 1B shows the main body 102 and the consumable 103 in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103 is received in a cavity of the main body 102 and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102 and consumable 103 may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1224] The system 101 is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104. The e-liquid 104 comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104 is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104 were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1225] As is more apparent from FIG. 1C, this e-liquid 104 is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105 that forms part of the consumable 103. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103 is a “single-use” consumable 103. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104 in the tank 105, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1226] The tank 105 surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106 that extends between an inlet 107 and an outlet 108 at opposing ends of the consumable 103. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103 that engages with the main body 102, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103 that comprises a mouthpiece 109 of the system 101. When the consumable 103 is engaged with the main body 102, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109 so as to draw air through the passage 106, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107 to the outlet 108 of the passage 106. Although not illustrated, the passage 106 may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103. The passage 106 is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103 and the main body 102 (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101 is drawn into the passage 106 (during an inhale).

[1227] The smoking substitute system 101 is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104 for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103 comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110 and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111 that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110. The porous wick 110 extends across the passage 106 (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106) and opposing ends of the wick 110 extend into the tank 105 (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104). In this way, e-liquid 104 contained in the tank 105 is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110 to a central portion of the porous wick 110 so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106 (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1228] The helical filament 111 is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110 and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112 mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102 (when engaged). When the consumable 103 is engaged with the main body 102, the electrical contacts 112 contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111 is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102 to the filament 111 in order to heat the filament 111. This heat is transferred from the filament 111 to the porous wick 110 which causes e-liquid 104 conveyed by the porous wick 110 to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111 and the outlet 108 of the passage 106, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109, by a user of the system 101.

[1229] The power source of the main body 102 may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). The main body 102 may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102 may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111. In this way, the filament 111 may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102 may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1230] Although not shown, the main body 102 and consumable 103 may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103 engaged with the main body 102. In this respect, the consumable 103 may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1231] FIGS. 2A and 2B show a smoking substitute apparatus, or consumable 203, and a substrate 220 for the consumable 203 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2A shows the substrate 220 being separated from the consumable 203, and FIG. 2B shows the substrate is partially received in a reservoir 205 of the consumable 203. For the purpose of illustration, some details of the consumable 203 are omitted from drawing but they are otherwise presented, for example the air flow passage and the heater. The consumable 203 in this embodiment is similar, structurally and functionally, to the consumable 103 as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C. However, the consumable 203 differs to the consumable 103 in that it is configured to receive the substrate 220 into the tank, or reservoir 205 of the consumable 203.

[1232] In the illustrated embodiment, the reservoir 205 comprises a supply of aerosol former, or e-liquid 204. The aerosol former is in a liquid form. The aerosol former comprises nicotine and a base liquid, e.g., propylene glycol. The aerosol former does not contain any flavorant and therefore the aerosol former is not flavored. Additionally, the aerosol former in this embodiment does not contain any colorant. That is, the aerosol former is in the natural color of the propylene glycol and the nicotine, and therefore it appears as a translucent or transparent liquid.

[1233] The consumable 203 comprises an opening 224, which is has a shape corresponding to a cross-sectional profile of the substrate 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate 220 is a card formed from an absorbent paper material, e.g., a bibulous paper. Sectional views of the planar substrate 220 and its corresponding opening 224 are respectively shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B as planar substrate 350 and planar opening 360. The substrate 220 has a planar form and therefore the opening 224 is a slit that extends longitudinally along a side wall of the reservoir 205. More specifically, the planar substrate 220 is configured to be inserted into the reservoir through the slit 225.

[1234] FIGS. 3A and 3B respectively illustrates various substrates 351, 352, 353, 354, 355 and corresponding openings 361, 362, 363, 364, 365 as featured in other embodiments. For example, the substrate may have a cross sectional profile of a circle 351, polygon such as a triangle 352 and a square 354, a star 353, a crescent 355 or other profiles, and configured to extend through an opening with corresponding shape, e.g., a circle 351, polygon such as a triangle 352 and a square 354, a star 353, a crescent 355 or other profiles. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the cross-sectional profile of the substrate may vary along its longitudinal axis. For example, one end of the substrate can be thinner than an opposing end. In addition, the substrate 220 may be curved in the longitudinal direction, e.g., the substrate 220 may have a curved or angled axis.

[1235] The substrate 220 comprises a property modifying agent disposed thereon. That is, upon contacting the aerosol former 204 stored in the reservoir 205, the property modifying agent is configured to be released from the substrate 220 and to be diffused into the aerosol former 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the property modifying agent is a power deposited on the substrate 220. The property modifying agent comprises a flavorant and a colorant respectively configured to modify the flavor and color of the aerosol form 204 as stored in the reservoir 205. In other embodiments, the property modifying agent may be one or more microcapsules, a gel, a liquid or a gas, either coated onto, embedded, absorbed or adsorbed in the substrate 220. The property modifying agent may comprise only a flavorant without the presence of a colorant or it may comprise only a colorant without the presence of a flavorant.

[1236] To prevent leakage of the aerosol former through the opening 224, e.g., at least during transportation and storage, the opening is provided a closure 222 for sealing the opening 224. In the illustrated embodiment, a flap 222 is hingedly attached to a sidewall of the reservoir 205 at a position adjacent to the opening 224. As such the flap is pivotable from a closed position where the flap covers the opening 224 to an opened position where the flap moves away from the opening 224. More specifically, in the closed position the flap 222 seals said opening 224 and in the opened position the opening 224 is free of obstruction.

[1237] The substrate 220 is configured to be partially inserted into the reservoir 205 through the opening 224 when the flap 222 is put into the opened position. In the illustrated embodiment, at least 90% of the length of substrate 220, towards an immersed end, is immersed in the aerosol former 204 so as to allow a significant amount of the property modifying agent to release from the substrate 220. The un-immersed portion of substrate 220, towards a tab end, forms a tab that allows the user to pull onto in order to withdraw the substrate 220 from the reservoir.

[1238] The amount of property modifying agent that is releasable to the aerosol former 204 is directly related to the contacting area between the substrate 220 and the aerosol former 204, a user may control the concentration of, or rate of release of, property modifying agent in the aerosol former by specifying the portion of substrate to submerge into the aerosol former 204. That is, an increased portion of the substrate 220 that remains emerged above the liquid surface of the aerosol former 204 means any property modifying agent in said emerged portion will not, or less likely to, be released into the aerosol former 204. For example, a user may only submerge 50%, or less, of the length of the substrate 220 in the aerosol former 204 so as to limit the amount, or rate, of release of property modifying agent into the aerosol former 204.

[1239] In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate 220 may be retained in the reservoir 205 and in contact with the aerosol former 204 for a predetermined period of time. This allow the property modifying agent to be released into the aerosol former 204. Said release approaches an equilibrium as the concentration of property modifying agent in the aerosol former increases throughout the predetermined period of time. Thereafter, the user may opt to withdraw the substrate 220 by pulling on its tab. Since said predetermined period of time is directly related to the amount of property modifying agent that is releasable to the aerosol former, a user may control the concentration of property modifying agent in the aerosol former by specifying the predetermined period of time before the substrate 220 is withdrawn from the reservoir 205. The predetermined period of time is the given example is less than or up to 60 minutes. In other embodiments, in the case of fast releasing property modifying agent, e.g., one with strong hydrophilic properties, the predetermined period of time can be less than a minute. In other embodiments, in the case of slow releasing property modifying agent, the predetermined period of time can be more than 60 minutes.

[1240] In the illustrated embodiment, the flap 222 is fully opened when the substrate 220 is partially received in the reservoir 205. As such, the consumable 203 lies on its side when receiving the substrate 220, with the opening 224 facing upwardly, in order to prevent aerosol former from flowing or leaking out of the opening 224 under gravity.

[1241] The user may remove the substrate 220 from the reservoir 205 after the lapse of said predetermined period of time, i.e., the aerosol former 204 has already received the required amount of property modifying agent from the substrate 220. The flap 222 may pivot toward the closed position in order to seal the opening 224 before the consumable 203 is assembled on to the main body.

[1242] FIG. 4 shows a substrate 420 and a consumable 403 according to an embodiment according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4A shows the substrate 420 separated from the consumable 403, and FIG. 4B shows the substrate is partially received in a reservoir 405 of the consumable 403. The consumable 403 is structurally and functionally similar to the consumable 403. The consumable 403 differs to consumable 203 in that the consumable 403 comprises a valve 422 positioned across the opening 424 for sealing said opening. The valve 422 is a duck bill valve that comprises a resilient member, e.g., rubber, for forming a seal around the peripheral of the substrate 420 when it is partially received in the reservoir 405. As such, when the substrate 420 is partially received in the reservoir, the opening 424 remains sealed so as to prevent aerosol former 404 from leaking out of the reservoir. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 403 may be rested in any orientation whilst the aerosol former 404 is prevented from leaking out of the opening 424.

[1243] The user may remove the substrate 420 from the reservoir 405 after the lapse of said predetermined period of time, i.e., the aerosol former 404 has already received the required amount of property modifying agent from the substrate 420. As the user withdraws the substrate 420 through the duck bill valve 422, the resilient member of the duck bill valve scrapes along the surface of the substrate and thereby removes excessive aerosol former retained thereon. Once the substrate is fully withdrawn, the resilient member seals the opening 424, thereby allowing the consumable 403 to be assembled on to the main body.

[1244] FIG. 5 shows a substrate 520 and a container 503 according to an embodiment according to the present disclosure, showing the substrate is partially received in a reservoir 505 of the container 503. The container 503 comprises an outlet 510 for dosing or adding aerosol former to a corresponding consumable. The container 503 is in the form of a bottle and stored with a supply of aerosol former 504. The container 503 comprises a valve 522 positioned across an opening 524 for sealing said opening. The valve 522 is a duck bill valve that comprises a resilient member, e.g., rubber, for forming a seal around the peripheral of the substrate 520 when it is partially received in the reservoir 505. As such, when the substrate 520 is partially received in the reservoir, the opening 524 remains sealed so as to prevent aerosol former 504 from leaking out of the reservoir. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 503 may be rested in any orientation whilst the aerosol former 504 is prevented from leaking out of the opening 524.

[1245] The user may remove the substrate 520 from the reservoir 505 after the lapse of said predetermined period of time, i.e., the aerosol former 504 has already received the required amount of property modifying agent from the substrate 520. As the user withdraws the substrate 520 through the duck bill valve 522, the resilient member of the duck bill valve scrapes along the surface of the substrate and thereby removes excessive aerosol former retained thereon. Once the substrate 520 is fully withdrawn, the resilient member seals the opening 524. The user may then add the property modified aerosol former 504 to a smoking substitute apparatus via the container outlet 510.

[1246] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a manufacturing process for the substrate. As shown in FIG. 6A, a flow of beaten paper pulp 610 is fed onto a moving conveyer belt having fine mesh screening 620. As the paper pulp is being conveyed along the conveyor belt 620 excessive water in the pulp drips through the fine mesh screening and thereby the pulp's water content reduces as it progresses along the conveyor belt 620. That is, the fine mesh screening is water permeable mesh. As the paper pulp is being conveyed along the conveyor belt 620, property modifying agent, e.g., flavorant and/or colorant, is applied to the paper pulp. In this illustrated embodiment, the property modifying agent is applied using a sprayer 640 such that a fine mist of property modifying agent may be readily absorbed or adsorbed to the paper pulp. This may allow property modifying agent to be added to a core portion of the substrate.

[1247] The paper pulp, added with property modifying agent, may then continue to be conveyed by the conveyor belt 620 to be mechanically pressed using a set of rollers 630. This further reduces water content in the pulp and thereby forms a continuous sheet of substrate.

[1248] The continuous sheet of substrate 612 then passes over a series of steam-heated cylinders 650 to remove any remaining moisture in the substrate 612. In the illustrated embodiment, further property modifying agent in the form of an aerosol is sprayed on using sprayer 660 to the substrate 612 before it is dried by the steam-heated cylinders 650 and wound onto a set of large reels 670. This may allow the property modifying agent to be added to the surface of the substrate 612. The reel of substrate 670 may then be cut to size to create the finished substrate for use with the container 503 and/or the consumable 103, 203, 403.

[1249] The substrate may be added with further property modifying agent with a secondary addition process. This may allow more property modifying agent to be added to the substrate. For example, further property modifying agent may be added by spraying an aerosol of property modifying agent to the surface of substrate, or by dipping the substrate into a storage of property modifying agent.

[1250] Other aspects of the first mode of the present disclosure are set out in the following numbered clauses.

[1251] 1. A substrate for a reservoir having an aerosol former stored therein, the substrate comprising: a property modifying agent disposed on the substrate; [1252] wherein the substrate is configured to be received in the reservoir to contact the aerosol former, so as to facilitate a release of the property modifying agent from the substrate to the aerosol former, and [1253] wherein the substrate is insoluble in the aerosol former.

[1254] 2. The substrate of clause 1; [1255] wherein the property modifying agent is configured to be deposited on a surface of the substrate.

[1256] 3. The substrate of clause 1; [1257] wherein the substrate is coated in a soluble coating containing the property modifying agent.

[1258] 4. The substrate of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the substrate comprises an absorbent paper.

[1259] 5. The substrate of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the substrate is configured to be removably received in the reservoir.

[1260] 6. The substrate of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the amount of property modifying agent releasable to the aerosol former corresponds to a predetermined period of time the substrate is received in the reservoir.

[1261] 7. The substrate of clause 6, wherein the predetermined period of time ranges from 1 minute to 2 hours.

[1262] 8. The substrate of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the substrate is configured to be received in a reservoir of a smoking substitute apparatus.

[1263] 9. The substrate of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the property modifying agent comprises flavorant and/or colorant.

[1264] 10. A reservoir for receiving the substrate of clauses 1 to 9, the reservoir is configured to store an aerosol former therein, the reservoir comprising an opening for providing access to the substrate as it extends into the reservoir to contact the aerosol former.

[1265] 11. The reservoir of clause 10, wherein the reservoir comprises a closure for closing the opening, wherein the closure is configured to open to provide access for the substrate.

[1266] 12. The reservoir of clause 11, wherein the closure comprises a valve having a resilient member for forming a peripheral seal with the substrate as it extends through the opening.

[1267] 13. A smoking substitute apparatus comprising the reservoir of clauses 11 to 12.

[1268] 14. A smoking substitute kit comprising: [1269] the substrate of any one of the clauses 1 to 9; and [1270] the reservoir of any one of clauses 10 to 12 or the smoking substitute apparatus of clause 13.

[1271] 15. A method of producing a substrate, comprising: [1272] preparing a pulp; [1273] applying a property modifying agent to the pulp; and [1274] drying the pulp to form the substrate.

[1275] Second Mode: A Flavored Sticker for Use with a Smoking Substitute Apparatus

[1276] Aspects and embodiments of the second mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects of the second mode and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1277] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101b. The system 101b comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102b of the system 101b, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103b. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103b (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101b. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101b is a closed system. An expanded schematic cross-sectional view of the consumable 103b is shown in FIG. 7C; a front view of the consumable 103b is shown in FIG. 7D.

[1278] As is apparent from FIGS. 7A and 7B, the consumable 103b is configured to engage the main body 102b. FIG. 7A shows the main body 102b and the consumable 103b in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 7B shows the main body 102b and the consumable 103b in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103b is received in a cavity of the main body 102b and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102b and consumable 103b may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1279] The system 101b is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104b. The e-liquid 104b comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104b is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104b were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1280] As is more apparent from FIG. 7C, this e-liquid 104b is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105b that forms part of the consumable 103b. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103b is a “single-use” consumable 103b. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104b in the tank 105b, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103b. In other embodiments, the e-liquid 104b (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank 105b may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1281] The tank 105b surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106b that extends between an inlet 107b and an outlet 108b at opposing ends of the consumable 103b. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103b that engages with the main body 102b, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103b that comprises a mouthpiece 109b of the system 101b. When the consumable 103b is engaged with the main body 102b, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109b so as to draw air through the passage 106b, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107b to the outlet 108b of the passage 106b. Although not illustrated, the passage 106b may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103b. The passage 106b is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103b and the main body 102b (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101b is drawn into the passage 106b (during an inhale).

[1282] The smoking substitute system 101b is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104b for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103b comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110b and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111b that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110b. The porous wick 110b extends across the passage 106b (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106b) and opposing ends of the wick 110b extend into the tank 105b (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104b). In this way, e-liquid 104b contained in the tank 105b is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110b to a central portion of the porous wick 110b so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106b (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1283] The helical filament 111b is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110b and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112b mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102b (when engaged). When the consumable 103b is engaged with the main body 102b, the electrical contacts 112b contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102b. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102b, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111b is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102b to the filament 111b in order to heat the filament 111b. This heat is transferred from the filament 111b to the porous wick 110b which causes e-liquid 104b conveyed by the porous wick 110b to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111b and the outlet 108b of the passage 106b, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109b, by a user of the system 101b.

[1284] The power source of the main body 102b may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1285] The main body 102b may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102b may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111b). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111b. In this way, the filament 111b may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102b may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1286] Although not shown, the main body 102b and consumable 103b may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103b engaged with the main body 102b. In this respect, the consumable 103b may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1287] The controller may further comprise a communication interface for communicating with an external device. For example, the controller may include a wireless interface for wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) or a wired interface for wired communication (e.g., USB).

[1288] A sticker 120b is affixed to the mouthpiece 109b of the consumable 103b, such that the sticker 120b covers the outlet 108b of the mouthpiece 109b (see FIG. 7C). The sticker 120b includes an adhesive portion which serves to adhere the sticker 120b to the mouthpiece 109b, and a flavored portion which is arranged to cover the outlet 108b of the mouthpiece 109b. The sticker is described in more detail below in relation to FIGS. 8A and 8B. The flavored portion of the sticker 120b is permeable to the aerosol generated in the apparatus 101b, such that the aerosol may pass through the flavored portion of the sticker 120b when a user inhales the aerosol through the mouthpiece 109b.

[1289] The flavored portion of the sticker 120b includes a flavorant which may be entrained by the aerosol when the aerosol passes through the flavored portion of the sticker 120b, to provide flavor to the user. The flavorant may also produce a taste on the user's tongue when the user puts the mouthpiece 109b in their mouth. In this manner, flavor may be delivered to the user without having to include any flavorant in the e-liquid.

[1290] The mouthpiece 109b includes a pair of flexible tabs 122b disposed adjacent to the outlet 108b and arranged to hold the sticker 120b in place on the mouthpiece 109b. The flexible tabs 122b are arranged to press the sticker 120b against an outer surface of the mouthpiece 109b, to prevent the sticker from moving or becoming unstuck during use. Together the flexible tabs 122b define a groove in which the sticker 120b is received. This may serve to ensure correct placement of the sticker 120b, to ensure that it completely covers the outlet 108b of the mouthpiece 109b. The sticker 120b may be affixed to the mouthpiece 109b by bending one or both of the flexible tabs 122b to enable the sticker 120b to be positioned over the outlet 108b.

[1291] For illustration purposes, the flexible tabs are not depicted in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

[1292] FIG. 7D illustrates a front view of the consumable 103b, i.e., a view of the consumable looking towards the outlet 108b along an axis defined by arrows 115 in FIG. 7C.

[1293] The consumable 103b and the sticker 120b may be provided separately (e.g., as parts of a kit for a smoking substitute apparatus). Then, before using the consumable 103b, the user may affix the sticker 120b to the mouthpiece 109b, so that they receive flavor when inhaling an aerosol through the mouthpiece 109b. When the sticker 120b is used up (e.g., when it no longer has any flavorant), the user may remove the sticker 120b and replace it with a new sticker 120b. The sticker 120b may be configured to last for a certain amount of time, e.g., for a predetermined number of puffs, or for a predetermined amount of time in the user's mouth.

[1294] Different stickers 120b may be provided, each having a different flavor. In this manner, a user may select a desired flavor by affixing a sticker having the desired flavor to the mouthpiece 109b.

[1295] FIG. 8A shows as cross-sectional side view of a sticker 700 that is and embodiment of the disclosure, the sticker being intended for use with a smoking substitute apparatus (e.g., apparatus 101b). FIG. 8B shows a top view of sticker 700. For example, sticker 700 may correspond to sticker 120b described above.

[1296] The sticker 700 has a generally circular shape and includes an adhesive portion 702 for adhering the sticker to a mouthpiece of a smoking substitute apparatus (e.g., mouthpiece 109b). The adhesive portion 702 is formed by a ring of adhesive material which is disposed on a first surface of a substrate 704 of the sticker 700. FIG. 8B shows the first surface of the substrate 704 with the ring of adhesive forming the adhesive portion 702. The ring of adhesive material is arranged to encircle an outlet of the mouthpiece (e.g., outlet 108b) when the sticker 700 is adhered to the mouthpiece 109b. A central portion 706 of the substrate may thus cover the outlet of the mouthpiece when the sticker 700 is adhered to the mouthpiece. In this manner, when the sticker is adhered to the mouthpiece, the adhesive portion 702 may form a seal around the outlet, so that aerosol exiting the outlet is forced through the central portion 706 of the substrate 704.

[1297] The adhesive material forming the adhesive portion 702 may be any suitable pressure-activated adhesive. In this manner, when the sticker 700 is pressed against an outer surface of the mouthpiece, the adhesive material causes the sticker 700 to adhere to the mouthpiece. A backing layer (not shown) may be provided to protect the adhesive portion 702 prior to use. Then, when a user wishes to apply the sticker to a mouthpiece, the user may remove the backing layer to expose the adhesive portion 702, so that the sticker may be adhered to the mouthpiece. The backing layer may, for example be made of paper, vinyl, or some other suitable material.

[1298] The substrate 704 may be made of a material that is permeable to an aerosol generated by the smoking substitute system, so that the aerosol may pass through the central portion 706 of the substrate 704 when the sticker 700 is adhered to a mouthpiece of the smoking substitute system. Preferably, the substrate 704 may be made of a porous material, to facilitate transmission of the aerosol. The porous material may, for example, be a mesh material, a cloth material, a fiber material, a filter material, or a paper material. In some cases, only the central portion 706 of the substrate 704 may be made of a porous material, and the remainder of the substrate 704 may be made of a non-porous material. In some embodiments, one or more apertures (not shown) may be formed in the central portion 706 of the substrate 704, to further facilitate transmission of the aerosol through the substrate 704.

[1299] In the example shown, the sticker 700 further includes a flavorant layer 708 disposed on a second surface of the substrate 704. The second surface of the substrate 704 is on an opposite side of the substrate 704 compared to the first surface of the substrate 704 on which the adhesive ring forming the adhesive portion 702 is disposed. Thus, when the sticker 700 is adhered to a mouthpiece, the flavorant layer 708 may face towards a user, so that it may come in direct contact with a user's mouth (e.g., tongue), when the user puts the mouthpiece in their mouth.

[1300] The flavorant of the flavorant layer 708 may be arranged to produce a taste sensation when the user's tongue comes into contact with the flavorant layer. Additionally, or alternatively, the flavorant may be arranged to be entrained by a flow of aerosol from the mouthpiece into the user's mouth, to deliver flavor to the user. For example, the flavorant may include a volatile liquid and/or flavorant particles which may be entrained by a flow of aerosol through the central portion 706 of the substrate 704.

[1301] The flavorant may be provided in solid or liquid form. The flavorant may be natural or synthetic. For example, the flavorant may include menthol, licorice, chocolate, fruit flavor (including, e.g., citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g., ginger, cinnamon) and tobacco flavor. The flavorant may be evenly dispersed or may be provided in isolated locations and/or varying concentrations in the flavored portion of the sticker.

[1302] In some embodiments, various mechanisms may be used to “activate” delivery of the flavorant to the user. This may ensure that flavorant is retained in the flavorant layer 708 and is not released before use. For example, the flavorant layer 708 may be heat- and/or friction-activated. In such a case, the flavorant may be contained in an array of microcapsules arranged to form the flavorant layer 708. The microcapsules may then be arranged to rupture to release flavorant upon heating (e.g., when the sticker comes into contact with the user's mouth) and/or when friction is applied to the flavorant layer 708 (e.g., by rubbing or scratching the flavorant layer 708). In some cases, the flavorant layer 708 may be activated by the aerosol itself. For example, a chemical in the aerosol may cause the microcapsules to rupture and release flavorant when aerosol passes through the central portion 706 of the substrate 704.

[1303] Such a scenario is discussed below in relation to FIG. 9.

[1304] Additionally, or alternatively, the sticker 700 may include a removable protective outer layer arranged to cover and protect the flavorant layer 708 prior to use. The removable protective outer layer may for example be a sticker arranged to cover the flavorant layer 708 which can be removed (e.g., peeled off) to expose the flavorant layer. The removable protective layer may be made of any suitable material, e.g., paper or vinyl.

[1305] In an alternative embodiment, flavorant may be directly incorporated into the substrate 704, instead of providing a separate flavorant layer 708. For example, the substrate 704 may be made of a porous material that is imbued with a flavorant liquid.

[1306] FIG. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a microcapsule 710 containing a flavorant 712. The microcapsule 710 is arranged to disintegrate in the presence of an aerosol generated by a smoking substitute system (e.g., system 101b), to release the flavorant 712 contained therein. A plurality of such microcapsules 710 containing flavorant may disposed in the flavorant layer 708 of the sticker 700.

[1307] The microcapsule 710 includes an outer membrane 714 made of a hydrogel composite which contains Chitosan. Chitosan is substantially stable around pH 7.5. Thus, when the microcapsule 710 is placed in a user's mouth, the Chitosan, and hence the outer membrane 714, may be stable and retain its integrity for a period of time. In this manner, the flavorant 712 contained in the microcapsule 710 is not released and so does not produce a flavor in the user's mouth.

[1308] A nicotine-containing e-liquid may produce an aerosol which has a pH around 7.8. Thus, when a user inhales such an aerosol produced with such an e-liquid, a pH in the user's mouth may increase above pH 7.5, which may cause rapid breakdown of the Chitosan in the outer membrane 714, resulting in disintegration of the microcapsule's outer membrane 714 and release of the flavorant 712.

[1309] The flavorant 712 in the microcapsule 710 may be in solid or liquid form. Preferably, the flavorant 712 may be a freeze-dried flavorant. In other words, during manufacture the flavorant 712 may have been freeze-dried to remove moisture from the flavorant 712. This may reduce the risk of flavorant 712 escaping from the microcapsule 710 prior to use. When the flavorant 712 is released from the microcapsule 710 due to disintegration of the outer membrane 714 in the user's mouth, the flavorant 712 may be activated by moisture in the user's mouth (e.g., the flavorant 712 may dissolve in the user's saliva), to produce a flavor in the user's mouth.

[1310] The outer membrane 714 may include Chitosan having a Deacetylation (DDT) of 75%-99%. The hydrogel composite forming the outer membrane may, for example, include 0.1% w/w up to 20% w/w of Chitosan. The hydrogel composite may further include excipients such as Xanthan Gum, water, propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin.

[1311] Any of the following compounds may also break down upon contacting the aerosol, and so may be included in the hydrogel composite (instead of, or in addition to, Chitosan): Hyaluronic Acid, Dextran, Poly-Acrylamide, Polyacrylic Acid, Guar Gum Succinate, Kappa-Carrageenan, Poly(vinyl Alcohol).

[1312] The microcapsule 710 may be manufactured by first freeze-drying a flavorant to remove any moisture from the flavorant and produce a flavorant cake. The flavorant cake may be molded into a desired shape (e.g., a ball) using a mold. Chitosan, together with excipients forming the hydrogel may be then be mixed together to produce the hydrogel composite. The hydrogel composite may be layered in a mold, into which the flavorant cake is inserted. The hydrogel composite may then be rolled to form an outer membrane around the flavorant cake.

[1313] The flavorant layer 708 may include a plurality of microcapsules 710. In use, the sticker 700 may be adhered to a mouthpiece of a smoking substitute apparatus and inserted into a user's mouth. In this manner, the microcapsules 710 may be located in the user's mouth. Then, when the user inhales an aerosol from the smoking substitute apparatus, the aerosol may pass through the central portion 706 of the sticker and thus come into contact with the microcapsules 710 in the flavorant layer 708. As a result, the outer membrane 714 of the microcapsules 710 may disintegrate due to the change in pH caused by the aerosol. This may cause release the flavorant 712 into the user's mouth.

[1314] Third Mode: Packaging for a Smoking Substitute Apparatus Including an Aromatic Additive

[1315] Aspects and embodiments of the third mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the third mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1316] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate packaging 720 for a smoking substitute apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 10A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of packaging 720, whilst FIG. 10B shows an image of packaging 720. Packaging 720 includes an outer housing 722 in the form of a box made of cardboard which defines a compartment 724 in which a smoking substitute apparatus may be received. The outer housing 722 includes a lid 726 arranged to cover an opening of the outer housing 722. The lid 726 may be opened to access the compartment 724 in the outer housing 722, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B.

[1317] An inner packaging component 728 is disposed within the inner compartment 724 in the outer housing 722. The inner packaging component 728 is arranged to hold a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of a consumable 730 (e.g., cartridge) for a smoking substitute system, and a main body 732 for the smoking substitute system. Examples of the consumable 730 and main body 732 for a smoking substitute system are described in more detail below in relation to FIGS. 13A-13C.

[1318] The inner packaging component 728 includes a first recess 734 defined therein which is arranged to receive the consumable 730, and a second recess 736 defined therein which is arranged to receive the main body 732. In the example shown, the first recess 734 is located below the second recess 736 and accessed via the second recess 736. This may serve to make the packaging 720 more compact. However, in other examples, the first and second recesses 734, 736 may be disposed adjacent to one another. A shape of the first recess 734 is complementary to a shape of the consumable 730. As can be seen in FIG. 10A, a cross-sectional shape of the first recess 734 substantially matches a cross-sectional shape of the consumable 730. In this manner, when the consumable 730 is inserted into the first recess 734, it may be securely held in place in the first recess 734. This may prevent the consumable 730 from moving around within the packaging 720, to avoid the consumable being damaged. Similarly, a shape of the second recess 736 is complementary to a shape of the main body 732, so that the main body may be securely held in place when it is inserted into the second recess 736.

[1319] The inner packaging component 728 further includes a third recess 738 arranged to receive a box 740. The box 740 may, for example, contain one or more components for the smoking substitute system. For example, the box 740 may contain a power cable for charging a battery in the main body 732.

[1320] The inner packaging component 728 is arranged such that a sidewall 742 of the inner packaging component 728 is in contact with a sidewall 744 of the outer housing 722, to prevent the inner packaging component from moving around within the compartment 724 in the outer housing 722. Additionally, the inner packaging component 728 is prevented from falling out of the outer housing 722 by a retaining lip 746 disposed on the sidewall 744 of the outer housing 722.

[1321] The inner packaging component 728 may be made of plastic and may, for example, be manufactured using a thermoforming (e.g., vacuum forming) technique. Surfaces of the inner packaging component 728 in the first recess 734 and second recess 736 may include a textured surface comprising a soft material (e.g., a textile material or the like). This may reduce the risk of scratching a surface of the consumable 730 or the main body 732 when they are inserted into their respective recesses.

[1322] An aromatic additive is included in the inner packaging component 728. The aromatic additive may be provided in various forms. In one embodiment, the aromatic additive is provided as a coating on a surface of the inner packaging component 728. For example, the aromatic additive may be sprayed or otherwise applied to the surface of the inner packaging component 728 during manufacture of the inner packaging component 728. Preferably, the aromatic additive may be provided on a surface of the inner packaging component 728 located in the first recess 734 and the second recess 736. In this manner, when the consumable 730 and main body 732 are held in the inner packaging component 728, they may come in direct contact with portion of the inner packaging component 728 comprising the aromatic additive. In this manner, aromatic additive may be transferred from the inner packaging component 728 to the consumable 730 and main body 732 when they are received in the packaging 720. Then, when the user uses the consumable 730 and/or main body 732, they may perceive an aroma produced by the aromatic additive located on the consumable 730 and/or main body 732.

[1323] Additionally, or alternatively, the aromatic additive may be directly incorporated into the material forming the inner packaging component 728. For example, where the inner packaging component 728 is made of plastic, the aromatic additive may be mixed into a polymer solution used to make the plastic for making the inner packaging component. This may produce an inner packaging component 728 which is itself scented, and which may release an aroma.

[1324] The aromatic additive may also be arranged to produce an aroma when the packaging 720 is opened by the user. For example, prior to use, the lid 726 of the outer housing 722 may be closed, to prevent the aromatic additive from diffusing outside the outer housing 722. The aromatic additive in and/or on the inner packaging component 728 may diffuse inside the compartment 724 in the outer housing. Then, when the user opens the lid 726, the aromatic additive may be released, producing an aroma perceived by the user.

[1325] The packaging 720 containing the consumable 730 and main body 732, as illustrated in FIG. 10A, may be considered as a smoking substitute product. In other examples, the packaging may be arranged to hold a different number of components, and/or different types of components for a smoking substitute system.

[1326] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of packaging 750 for a smoking substitute apparatus according to another embodiment of the disclosure. The packaging 750 includes a sealed plastic pouch 752 which defines a sealed enclosure in which a consumable 754 for a smoking substitute system is received. The sealed plastic pouch 752 is made of a transparent plastic to enable a user to see the consumable 754 within the pouch 752. The sealed plastic pouch 752 may, for example, be made using a flow wrapping technique. In the example shown, the consumable 754 is a cartridge for a smoking substitute system.

[1327] The sealed plastic pouch 752 contains an atmosphere comprising an aromatic additive. The atmosphere comprising the aromatic atmosphere is sealed inside the pouch 752 together with the consumable 754. In this manner, when the sealed plastic pouch 752 is opened by a user, the atmosphere comprising the aromatic additive may be released and produce an aroma that is perceived by the user. Additionally, some of the aromatic additive in the atmosphere in the sealed plastic pouch 752 may settle on a surface of the consumable 754, which may produce a scent and/or taste for the user when the user uses the consumable 754. As an example, the atmosphere in the sealed plastic pouch 752 may include a mist that is a mixture of ethanol and a flavorant.

[1328] To produce the packaging 750, first the plastic pouch 752 may be manufactured, e.g., using a flow wrapping technique. The consumable 754 may then be placed inside the pouch 752, and an atmosphere comprising an aromatic additive may be introduced into the plastic pouch 752. For example, a mixture of ethanol and flavorant may be atomized and sprayed into the plastic pouch 752. Subsequently, the plastic pouch 752 may be sealed, to form a sealed enclosure around the consumable 754 containing the atomized mixture of ethanol and flavorant. The atomized mixture of ethanol and flavorant may then settle on an inner surface of the pouch 752 and/or on the consumable. Over time, the ethanol may evaporate, leaving the flavorant on the inner surface of the pouch 752 and the consumable 754. This may produce an aroma in the packaging 750 and on the consumable 754, and may also produce a taste or scent when a user uses the consumable 754.

[1329] Together, the packaging 750 and consumable 754 may be considered as a smoking substitute product. Providing an individually packaged (wrapped) consumable in this manner may be beneficial, as it may enable the delivery of an aroma (via the aromatic additive in the packaging 750) for each consumable. In this manner, a user may experience a “fresh” aroma each time they open the packaging for a new consumable.

[1330] In other examples, other components of a smoking substitute system may be contained within the sealed plastic pouch 752, e.g., a main body of a smoking substitute system, or even a whole smoking substitute system.

[1331] FIG. 12 shows an image of packaging 750b for a smoking substitute apparatus that is another embodiment of the third mode of the disclosure. The packaging 750b is similar to packaging 750 described above in relation to FIGS. 10A and 10B. Accordingly, components of packaging 750b which correspond to components of packaging 750 described above are given the same reference numerals in FIG. 12 as the corresponding components in FIGS. 10A and 10B, and are not described again.

[1332] The packaging 750b includes a scented card 756, which may be placed inside the inner compartment 724 of the outer housing 722. The scented card 756 may be made of a paper or cardboard material, and includes an aromatic additive for producing an aroma. The aromatic additive comprised by the scented card 756 is a non-tobacco scented aromatic additive. For example, the aromatic additive may include menthol, licorice, chocolate, fruit flavor (including, e.g., citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g., ginger, cinnamon). The aromatic additive may be provided as a coating on an outer surface of the scented card 756 (e.g., it may be sprayed onto the scented card 756), or it may be incorporated into a material forming the scented card 756.

[1333] The scented card 756 may be placed in the inner compartment 724 of the outer housing 722 together with a smoking substitute apparatus (e.g., consumable 730 and/or main body 732). When the lid 726 of the outer housing 722 is closed, aromatic additive from the scented card 756 may diffuse within the inner compartment 724. This may produce an aroma that is perceived by a user when the user opens the lid 726. Some of the aromatic additive may be settle on a surface of the smoking substitute apparatus, which may produce a smell or taste when the user uses the smoking substitute apparatus. Additionally, some of the aromatic additive may transferred from the scented card 756 to the smoking substitute apparatus (e.g., where the scented card and smoking substitute apparatus are in contact). In this manner, the scented card 756 may enable flavor delivery to a user of the smoking substitute apparatus.

[1334] We now describe, with relation to FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C a smoking substitute system that may be contained in packaging of the disclosure, e.g., to form a smoking substitute product. FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101c. The system 101c comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102c of the system 101c, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 403. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103c (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101c. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101c is a closed system.

[1335] As is apparent from FIGS. 13A and 13B, the consumable 103c is configured to engage the main body 102c. FIG. 13A shows the main body 102c and the consumable 103c in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 13B shows the main body 102c and the consumable 103c in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103c is received in a cavity of the main body 102c and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102c and consumable 103c may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1336] The system 101c is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104c. The e-liquid 104c comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104c is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104c were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1337] As is more apparent from FIG. 13C, this e-liquid 104c is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105c that forms part of the consumable 103c. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103c is a “single-use” consumable 103c. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104c in the tank 105c, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103c. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1338] The tank 105c surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106c that extends between an inlet 107c and an outlet 108c at opposing ends of the consumable 103c. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103c that engages with the main body 102c, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103c that comprises a mouthpiece 109c of the system 101c. When the consumable 103c is engaged with the main body 102c, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109c so as to draw air through the passage 106c, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107c to the outlet 108c of the passage 106c. Although not illustrated, the passage 106c may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103c. The passage 106c is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103c and the main body 102c (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101c is drawn into the passage 106c (during an inhale).

[1339] The smoking substitute system 101c is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104c for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103c comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110c and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111c that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110c. The porous wick 110c extends across the passage 106c (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 406) and opposing ends of the wick 110c extend into the tank 105c (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104c). In this way, e-liquid 104c contained in the tank 105c is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110c to a central portion of the porous wick 110c so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106c (i.e., caused by a user inhaling). In other embodiments the heating filament 111c and/or wick 110c may form part of the main body (but, may engage the tank 105c during engagement of the main body 102c and the consumable 103c).

[1340] The helical filament 111c is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110c and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112c mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102c (when engaged). When the consumable 103c is engaged with the main body 102c, the electrical contacts 112c contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102c. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102c, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111c is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102c to the filament 111c in order to heat the filament 111c. This heat is transferred from the filament 111c to the porous wick 110c which causes e-liquid 104c conveyed by the porous wick 110c to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111c and the outlet 108c of the passage 106c, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109c, by a user of the system 101c.

[1341] The power source of the main body 102c may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1342] The main body 102c may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102c may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111c). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111c. In this way, the filament 111c may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102c may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1343] Although not shown, the main body 102c and consumable 103c may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103c engaged with the main body 102c. In this respect, the consumable 103c may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1344] In some cases, all or part of the smoking substitute system 101c may be received in packaging of the disclosure. For example, only the consumable 103c may be provided in packaging of the disclosure (e.g., in sealed plastic pouch 752), with the main body 102c being provided in separate packaging. In other cases, both the main body 102c and the consumable 103c may be provided in the same packaging (e.g., packaging 720 or 300).

[1345] The disclosure may be as described in the following clauses:

[1346] 1. Packaging for a smoking substitute apparatus, the packaging comprising a compartment for receiving a smoking substitute apparatus, and an aromatic additive.

[1347] 2. Packaging according to clause 1, wherein the packaging includes: [1348] an outer housing forming the compartment for receiving the smoking substitute apparatus; and [1349] an inner packaging component disposed within the outer housing, the inner packaging component being configured to hold the smoking substitute apparatus; [1350] wherein the inner packaging component comprises at least a part of the aromatic additive.

[1351] 3. Packaging according to clause 2, wherein the inner packaging component includes a recess for holding the smoking substitute apparatus, the recess having a shape that is complementary to a shape of the smoking substitute apparatus.

[1352] 4. Packaging according to clause 2 or 3, wherein at least part of the aromatic additive comprised by the inner packaging component is provided on a surface of the inner packaging component.

[1353] 5. Packaging according to clause 4, wherein the surface of the inner packaging component is arranged to contact the smoking substitute apparatus when the smoking substitute apparatus is held in the inner packaging component.

[1354] 6. Packaging according to one of clauses 2 to 5, wherein at least part of the aromatic additive comprised by the inner packaging component is integrated into a material forming the inner packaging component.

[1355] 7. Packaging according to clause 1, wherein the compartment for receiving the smoking substitute apparatus is a sealed enclosure containing an atmosphere comprising at least part of the aromatic additive.

[1356] 8. Packaging according to clause 7, wherein the sealed compartment is formed by a plastic pouch.

[1357] 9. Packaging according to any preceding clause, further comprising a scented card disposed within the compartment for receiving the smoking substitute apparatus, wherein the scented card comprises at least part of the aromatic additive.

[1358] 10. Packaging according to clause 9, wherein the aromatic additive comprised by the scented card is a non-tobacco scented aromatic additive.

[1359] 11. A smoking substitute product comprising: [1360] packaging according to any preceding clause; and [1361] a smoking substitute apparatus contained within the compartment for receiving a smoking substitute apparatus.

[1362] 12. A smoking substitute produce according to clause 11, wherein the smoking substitute apparatus is a consumable for a smoking substitute system.

[1363] 13. A method of packaging a smoking substitute apparatus, the method comprising: [1364] forming a compartment for receiving the smoking substitute apparatus; [1365] including an aromatic additive in the compartment; and [1366] placing the smoking substitute apparatus in the compartment.

[1367] 14. A method according to clause 13, further comprising: [1368] forming an outer housing of the packaging to provide the compartment for receiving the smoking substitute apparatus; [1369] forming an inner packaging component for holding the smoking substitute apparatus, the inner packaging component comprising at least part of the aromatic additive; [1370] placing the smoking substitute apparatus in the inner packaging component, and [1371] placing the inner packaging component in the outer housing.

[1372] 15. A method according to clause 13, further comprising: [1373] introducing into the compartment an atmosphere comprising at least part of the aromatic additive; and [1374] sealing the compartment to form a sealed enclosure around the smoking substitute apparatus containing the atmosphere.

[1375] 16. A method according to any one of clauses 13 to 15, further comprising: placing a scented card in the compartment for receiving the smoking substitute apparatus, the scented card comprising at least part of the aromatic additive.

[1376] 17. A method of delivering flavor to a user of a smoking substitute apparatus, the method comprising: [1377] providing a smoking substitute apparatus in packaging, the packaging including an aromatic additive; [1378] opening the packaging to retrieve the smoking substitute apparatus; perceiving, by the user, the aromatic additive; and [1379] using, by the user, the smoking substitute apparatus.

[1380] Fourth Mode: A Smoking Substitute Apparatus for Use with a Source of Pressurized Additive

[1381] Aspects and embodiments of the fourth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the fourth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1382] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101d. The system 101d comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102d of the system 101d, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103d. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103d (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101d. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101d is a closed system.

[1383] As is apparent from FIGS. 14A and 14B, the consumable 103d is configured to engage the main body 102d. FIG. 14A shows the main body 102d and the consumable 103d in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 14B shows the main body 102d and the consumable 103d in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103d is received in a cavity of the main body 102d and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102d and consumable 103d may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1384] The system 101d is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104d. The e-liquid 104d comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104d is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104d were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1385] As is more apparent from FIG. 14C, this e-liquid 104d is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105d that forms part of the consumable 103d. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103d is a “single-use” consumable 103d. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104d in the tank 105d, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103d. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1386] The tank 105d surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106d that extends between an inlet 107d and an outlet 108d at opposing ends of the consumable 103d. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103d that engages with the main body 102d, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103d that comprises a mouthpiece 109d of the system 101d.

[1387] When the consumable 103d is engaged with the main body 102d, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109d so as to draw air through the passage 106d, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107d to the outlet 108d of the passage 106d. Although not illustrated, the passage 106d may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103d. The passage 106d is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103d and the main body 102d (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101d is drawn into the passage 106d (during an inhale).

[1388] The smoking substitute system 101d is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104d for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103d comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110d and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111d that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110d. The porous wick 110d extends across the passage 106d (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106d) and opposing ends of the wick 110d extend into the tank 105d (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104d). In this way, e-liquid 104d contained in the tank 105d is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110d to a central portion of the porous wick 110d so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106d (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1389] The helical filament 111d is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110d and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112d mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102d (when engaged). When the consumable 103d is engaged with the main body 102d, the electrical contacts 112d contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102d. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102d, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111d is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102d to the filament 111d in order to heat the filament 111d. This heat is transferred from the filament 111d to the porous wick 110d which causes e-liquid 104d conveyed by the porous wick 110d to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111d and the outlet 108d of the passage 106d, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109d, by a user of the system 101d.

[1390] The power source of the main body 102d may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1391] The main body 102d may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102d may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111d). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111d. In this way, the filament 111d may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102d may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1392] Although not shown, the main body 102d and consumable 103d may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103d engaged with the main body 102d. In this respect, the consumable 103d may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1393] As is apparent from FIGS. 14C and 14D, the smoking substitute system 101d further comprises an additive source in the form of a receptacle 113d (formed of, e.g., metal or plastic) comprising a cavity 114d for containing a pressurized additive (i.e., contained above atmospheric pressure) which, in the present embodiment, comprises a flavorant (for delivering flavor to a user).

[1394] In order to deliver the additive to a user, the consumable 103d comprises an additive inlet 115d in fluid communication with the passage 106d downstream of the wick 110d. The additive inlet 115d is formed in an outer surface of a housing 116d of the consumable 103d and is fluidly connected to the passage 106d by a conduit 117d. This conduit 117d extends generally laterally with respect to the passage 106d, but is not perpendicular to the passage 106d, so as to provide for a smooth flow of additive from the conduit 117d to the passage 106d. As will be described further below, the inlet 115d is configured for connection with the receptacle 113d for supply of the additive from the cavity 114d of the receptacle 113d.

[1395] To control the flow of additive, the consumable 103d comprises a valve 118d between the additive inlet 115d and the passage 106d (i.e., in the conduit 117d). The valve 118d may be a one-way directional valve or a check valve. The valve 118d is movable between an open position (FIG. 14E) and a closed position (FIG. 14D). In the open position additive is able to flow from the inlet 115d to the passage 106d. In the closed position the valve 118d obstructs the inlet 115d and flow of additive from the inlet 115d to the passage 106d is prevented. The valve 118d is biased towards the closed position.

[1396] Although not immediately apparent from the figures, the valve 118d is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in response to an inhalation from the outlet 108d by a user. In other words, inhalation at the outlet 108d causes a pressure drop in the conduit 117d. The differential pressure across the valve 118d causes the valve 118d to move from the closed position to the open position. Thus, when a user is inhaling the valve 118d is in the open position and additive is combined with the aerosol flow in the passage 106d. Conversely, when a user is not inhaling, the valve 118d remains in the closed position (as shown in FIG. 14D).

[1397] For releasable connection (i.e., mounting) of the receptacle 113d to the consumable 103d, the consumable comprises a connector 119d. In the illustrated embodiment the connector 119d operates by way of a snap-fit mechanism. In particular, the connector 119d comprises bump features 760d that are configured to engage with corresponding grooves 762d formed in an outer surface of the receptacle 113d. As the receptacle 113d is moved into connection with the connector 119d (as indicated by the arrow of FIG. 14D) the outermost bump feature 760d is deflected by an outer surface of the receptacle 113d, until it reaches the corresponding groove 762d and engages with the groove 760d.

[1398] The connector 119d comprises a sealing member in the form of an elastomeric sealing ring 764d. This sealing ring 764d is compressed as the receptacle 113d engages with the connector 119d so as to form a fluid seal between the receptacle 113d and the connector 119d. This prevents leakage of pressurized additive between the receptacle 113d and the connector 119d.

[1399] To prevent leakage of the pressurized additive prior to connection of the receptacle 113d with the connector 119d, the receptacle 113d comprises a frangible seal 766d (or membrane) that extends across an opening of the receptacle 113d. The frangible seal 766d is a thinner piece of material (e.g., foil) that may be integrally formed with the receptacle 113d or attached in another manner. In order to release additive from the cavity 114d (upon connection of the receptacle 113d to the connector 119d), the connector 119d comprises a seal breaching portion in the form of a tapered ring 768d extending about an opening to the connector 119d (in fluid connection with the inlet 115d). The ring 768d is tapered from its base to a distal end so as to be pointed. Thus, the ring is able to pierce the frangible seal 766d to release pressurized additive from the cavity 114d of the receptacle 113d. As is shown by the dashed arrows of FIG. 14E, this allows the additive to flow from the receptacle, through the inlet 115d and to the passage 106d (via the conduit 117d). The additive then mixes with aerosol (generated at the wick 110d) and may be inhaled via the outlet 108d by a user. In this way, the additive may change a property (e.g., flavor) of the aerosol inhaled by the user.

[1400] FIG. 15 shows a further embodiment of a smoking substitute apparatus, again in the form of a consumable 203d. This consumable 203d differs from the previously described consumable 103d, in that it comprises first 225d and second 226d portions that are releasably mountable to one another (e.g., by a screw connection, bayonet connection, snap engagement, etc.). The first portion 225d comprises the receptacle 113d and a first passage section 206d-1. The second portion 226d comprises the remaining components of the consumable 103d (e.g., generator, wick, heater, etc. (not shown)), and a second passage section 206d-2. When the first 225 and second 226 portions are mounted together, the first 206d-1 and second 206d-2 passage sections define the passage of the consumable 103d.

[1401] Fifth Mode: A Smoking Substitute Apparatus have Separate Storage for Aerosol Former and Property Modifying Agent

[1402] Aspects and embodiments of the fifth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the fifth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1403] FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101e. The system 101e comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102e of the system 101e, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103e. The smoking substitute apparatus is a smoking substitute apparatus. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103e (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101e. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101e is a closed system.

[1404] As is apparent from FIGS. 16A and 16B, the consumable 103e is configured to engage the main body 102e. FIG. 16A shows the main body 102e and the consumable 103e in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 16B shows the main body 102e and the consumable 103e in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103e is received in a cavity of the main body 102e and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102e and consumable 103e may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1405] The system 101e is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104e. The e-liquid 104e comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104e is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104e were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1406] As is more apparent from FIG. 16C, this e-liquid 104e is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105e that forms part of the consumable 103e. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103e is a “single-use” consumable 103e. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104e in the tank 105e, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103e. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1407] The tank 105e surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106e that extends between an inlet 107e and an outlet 108e at opposing ends of the consumable 103e. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103e that engages with the main body 102e, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103e that comprises a mouthpiece 109e of the system 101e. When the consumable 103e is engaged with the main body 102e, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109e so as to draw air through the passage 106e, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107e to the outlet 108e of the passage 106e. Although not illustrated, the passage 106e may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103e. The passage 106e is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103e and the main body 102e (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101e is drawn into the passage 106e (during an inhale).

[1408] The smoking substitute system 101e is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104e for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103e comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110e and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111e that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110e. The porous wick 110e extends across the passage 106e (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106e) and opposing ends of the wick 110e extend into the tank 105e (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104e). In this way, e-liquid 104e contained in the tank 105e is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110e to a central portion of the porous wick 110e so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106e (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1409] The helical filament 111e is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110e and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112e mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102e (when engaged). When the consumable 103e is engaged with the main body 102e, the electrical contacts 112e contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102e. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102e, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111e is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102e to the filament 111e in order to heat the filament 111e. This heat is transferred from the filament 111e to the porous wick 110e which causes e-liquid 104e conveyed by the porous wick 110e to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111e and the outlet 108e of the passage 106e, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109e, by a user of the system 101e.

[1410] The power source of the main body 102e may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). The main body 102e may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102e may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111e). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111e. In this way, the filament 111e may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102e may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1411] Although not shown, the main body 102e and consumable 103e may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103e engaged with the main body 102e. In this respect, the consumable 103e may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1412] FIGS. 17A and 17B respectively shows a capsule 800 and a smoking substitute apparatus, or a consumable 203e for receiving the capsule 800 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The consumable 203e comprises a tank that is divided into a first compartment 802e-1 and a second compartment 802e-2 by a partition wall 804. In other words, the first compartment 802e-1 and the second compartment 802e-2 shares the partition wall 804. The partition wall 804 extends across the tank, e.g., from a sidewall of the tank towards an opposing sidewall of the tank, as such a base portion of the second compartment 802e-2 is adjacent to an upper portion of the first compartment 802e-1.

[1413] The capsule 800 comprises a shell 806 encapsulating a body of property modifying agent 808. In the illustrated embodiment the shell 806 is formed from a hydrolyzed collagen, such as a gelatin. The shell is insoluble in the property modifying agent, as such it remains stable during storage and transportation. The property modifying agent 808 in the illustrated embodiment is a liquid property modifying agent, and comprises a flavorant and a colorant respectively configured to modify the flavor and color of the aerosol former 204e as stored in the first compartment 802e-1. In other embodiments, the property modifying agent may be a solid, a gel, a liquid or a gas, and may comprise only a flavorant without the presence of a colorant or may comprise a colorant without the presence of a flavorant. For example, the property modifying agent 808 may alternatively be a powder encapsulated in the shell 806.

[1414] In the illustrated embodiment, the first compartment 802e-1 contains a supply of aerosol former, or e-liquid 204e, and the second compartment 802e-2 receives the capsule 800. That is, in this example, the consumable is provided with a capsule 800 contained in the second compartment 802e-2. The aerosol former 204e is in a liquid form. The aerosol former 204e comprises nicotine and a base liquid, e.g., propylene glycol. The aerosol former 204e does not contain any flavorant and therefore the aerosol former is not flavored. The aerosol former 204e in this embodiment does not contain any colorant. That is, the aerosol former 204e is in the natural color of the propylene glycol and the nicotine, and therefore it appears as a translucent or transparent liquid.

[1415] The partition wall 804 as shown in FIG. 17B comprises an opening 810. The opening 810 effects fluid communication between the first compartment 802e-1 and the second compartment 802e-2. However, the opening 810 is sized such that the capsule 800 as received in the first compartment 802e-1 is retained therein, e.g., the opening 810 is sized smaller than the cross-sectional diameter of the capsule 800. The opening 810 is unobstructed in the illustrated embodiment as shown in FIG. 17B. That is, the consumable 203e in this example is supplied with the aerosol former 204e freely flowable between the first compartment 802e-1 and second compartment 802e-2, e.g., the aerosol former 204e may be in contact with the capsule 800 and is separated from the property modifying agent 808 encapsulated in the capsule shell 806.

[1416] The second compartment 802e-2 of the consumable 203e in the illustrated embodiment comprises flexible sidewalls that deforms upon applying a force thereat. In some other embodiments, the consumable is formed from an elastic material and therefore both the first compartment and the second compartment comprise flexible sidewalls. Additionally, the mouthpiece 209e that surrounds the second compartment 802e-2 is also formed from an elastic material such that the second compartment 802e-2 may be configured to deform by compressing or twisting the mouthpiece 209e.

[1417] To release the property modifying agent 808 from the capsule 800, a user may compress, e.g., squeeze on, the mouthpiece 209e so as to bias the flexible sidewalls against each other, as shown in FIG. 17C.

[1418] Doing so urges the flexible sidewalls towards the capsule 800 and thereby compresses the capsule 800. The compressive stress acting on the capsule 800 causes the capsule shell 806 to rupture, and thereby releases the body of property modifying agent 808 to the cavity of the second compartment 802e-2. The property modifying agent 808 then flows or drips, under gravity, through the opening 810 and into the aerosol former 204e stored in the first compartment 802e-1. In the illustrated embodiment, the ruptured capsule shell 806 may be retained in the second compartment 802e-2 as its size precludes it form passing through the opening 810.

[1419] Alternatively, a user may twist the consumable 203e about its longitudinal axis, as shown in FIG. 17D. Doing so reduces the spacing between the flexible sidewalls and thereby urges the flexible sidewalls towards the capsule 800 to compress it. The compressive stress acting on the capsule 800 causes the capsule shell 806 to rupture, and thereby releases the body of property modifying agent 808 to the cavity of the second compartment 802e-2. The property modifying agent 808 then flows or drips, under gravity, through the opening 810 and into the aerosol former 204e stored in the first compartment 802e-1. In the illustrated embodiment, the ruptured capsule shell 806 may be retained in the second compartment 802e-2 as its size precludes it form passing through the opening 810. That is, the flexible sidewalls are configured to compress the capsule 800 stored in the second compartment 802e-2 either by compressing the flexible sidewalls or by twisting the consumable 203e.

[1420] In some other embodiments, the flexible sidewalls of the second compartment may comprise protrusion, in the form of ribs or projections for rupturing the capsules stored in the second compartment. The protrusions may allow pressure to build up at their tips, thereby allowing the capsules to be ruptured more efficiently.

[1421] In some other embodiments, the second compartment may comprise a moveable element for rupturing the capsule. The movable element may comprise an actuator that extends outwardly from the consumable that allows a user to move the moveable element and thereby to rupture the capsule. The movable element may be a movable wall positioned at an upper end of the second compartment away from the first compartment, and may configure to travel along the longitudinal axis of the consumable. In use, said movable wall may move towards the partition wall and thereby ruptures the capsules stored in the second compartment. That is, the moveable wall may function as a piston for rupturing the capsules. Alternatively, or in addition, the movable element may comprise one or more needles in the second compartment that is configured to travel along the longitudinal axis of the consumable. In use, said needles may move towards the capsules to pierce through the capsule shell, and thereby releasing the property modifying agent to the second compartment.

[1422] In some other embodiments, the capsules may comprise a capsule shell that is soluble in the aerosol former. In such cases, the opening may be sealed by a removable seal in order to prevent the aerosol former from coming into contact with the capsule shell, and thereby prevents the capsule shell from dissolving in the aerosol former prior to seal removal. More specifically, a seal portion of the removable seal may cover the opening in a sealing position and thereby hermetically seals the opening. Therefore, in the sealing position, the seal portion of the removable seal prevents fluid communication between the first compartment and the second compartment. The removal seal is configured to be removed from the sealing position and thereby detaches the seal portion form the opening, and thereby establishes fluid communication between the first compartment and second compartment.

[1423] The removable seal may additionally comprise a tab portion in connection with the seal portion. That is, the seal portion may be formed together with the tab portion to form the removable seal. Said tab portion may extends, along a slot in the consumable and outwardly from the base of the consumable through a check valve, such that at least a part of the tab portion is accessible to a user. The tab portion comprises an enlarged portion external to the consumable for a user to grip onto.

[1424] Prior to use or in use, the user may pull on the tab portion away from the consumable to detach the seal portion from the opening. The removable seal may be completely removed from the consumable to be disposed of. Doing so establishes fluid communication between the first compartment and second compartment, thereby allowing the aerosol former in the first compartment to come into contact with the capsule in the second compartment. More specifically, the capsule shell of the capsules may dissolve in the aerosol former once they come into contact with each other. As such, the body of the property modifying agent may then be released into the aerosol former.

[1425] FIG. 18 illustrates a consumable 814 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The consumable 814 is similar, functionally and structurally to the consumable 203e as shown in FIG. 17B. The consumable 814 differs to the consumable 203e in that the consumable 814 comprises a compartment inlet 816 at the second compartment 802e-3 for providing access to the second compartment 802e-3. More specifically, the compartment inlet 816 is sized to allow capsules 800 to be inserted through there and into the second compartment 802e-3. The compartment inlet 816 is closed by a flap 818 that is hingedly attached to the consumable 814 at a location adjacent to the compartment inlet 816. Therefore, the flap 818 is pivotable between an opened position for providing access to the second compartment 802e-3 and a closed position where the second compartment 802e-3 is sealed off. When the flap 818 in the opened position, a user may add capsules 800, either manually or with the use of a dispenser, to the second compartment 802e-2.

[1426] The quantity of property modifying agent releasable to the aerosol former relates to the number of capsules that is being added to the second compartment 802e-3. For example, a user may add a predetermined number of capsules to the second compartment 802e-3 in order to achieve the desired flavor and/or color. The user may add a mix of capsules each having a different flavorant (e.g., blueberry flavorant in a first capsule and cherry flavorant in a second capsule) so as to achieve a mixed flavor in the aerosol former.

[1427] In some embodiments, the volume of the second compartment 802e-3 is limited so as to limit the maximum amount of property modifying agent a user can add to the aerosol former. This prevents the user form overdosing the property modifying agent in the aerosol former.

[1428] FIGS. 19a, 19b and 19c sequentially show a dispenser 820 dispensing a predetermined number of capsules 800 to a second compartment 802e-4 of a consumable 203e-2. FIG. 19a and FIG. 19c show the dispenser 820 being separated from the consumable 203e-2 and FIG. 19b shows the dispenser 820 is engaged with the consumable 203e-2. The dispenser 820 comprises a storage 822 for storing a supply of capsules 800 and a dispensing chamber 824 for storing a predetermined number of capsules to be dispensed. For example, the dispensing chamber 824 is sized to receive the required number of capsules to be dispensed, in this case a single capsule. However, the dispensing chamber may be sized to receive a plurality of capsules such that said plurality of capsules may be dispensed at once. When the dispenser is separated from the consumable, as shown in FIG. 19a, a dispensing element 826d prevents the capsule from being dispensed from the dispensing chamber 824.

[1429] The dispenser comprises a dispensing mechanism, which is formed of dispensing elements 826a, 826b, 826c and 826d, and is configured to be activated by a corresponding activating mechanism 828a and 828b at the consumable 203e-2. More specifically, the activating mechanism 828a and 828b are protrusions that, when the dispenser 820 is engaged with the consumable 203e-2 as shown in FIG. 19B, push onto the dispensing element 826a and 826b and thereby urges the dispensing mechanism towards an upward direction. This causes the dispensing element 826d to move and thereby allows a capsule to dispense through a dispenser outlet 830 into the second compartment 802e-4. Furthermore, when the dispensing mechanism is activated as shown in FIG. 19B, a slot formed between the dispensing element 826b and 826c also moves in line with a capsule 440 stored in the storage 822 and thereby allowing the capsule in the storage 822 to drop into the dispensing chamber 824. That is, activating the dispensing mechanism causes a capsule to be dispensed from the dispensing chamber 824, as well as allowing a capsule form the storage 822 to replenish the dispensing chamber 824.

[1430] Sixth Mode: A Smoking Substitute Apparatus Including Separate First and Second Airflows

[1431] Aspects and embodiments of the sixth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the sixth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1432] FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101f. The system 101f comprises a main body 102f (i.e., an e-cigarette device) of the system 101f, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103f (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101f. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101f system 101f is a closed system.

[1433] As is apparent from FIGS. 20A and 20B, the consumable 103f is configured to engage the main body 102f. FIG. 20A shows the main body 102f and the consumable 103f in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 20B shows the main body 102f and the consumable 103f in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103f is received in a cavity of the main body 102f and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102f and consumable 103f may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1434] The system 101f is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104f. The e-liquid 104f comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104f is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104f were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1435] As is more apparent from FIGS. 20C and 20D, this e-liquid 104f is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105f that forms part of the consumable 103f. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103f is a “single-use” consumable 103f. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104f in the tank 105f, the intention is that the user disposes of the consumable 103f. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the device or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1436] The tank 105f surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a first passage 106f that extends between an inlet 107f and a mouthpiece opening 108f at opposing ends of the consumable 103f. In this respect, the first passage 106f comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable that engages with the main body 102f, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103f, which defines a mouthpiece 109f (comprising the mouthpiece opening 108f) of the system 101f. When the consumable 103f is engaged with the main body 102f, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109f so as to draw air through the first passage 106f, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows in FIG. 20C) in a direction from the inlet 107f to the mouthpiece opening 108f of the first passage 106f. Although not illustrated, the first passage 106f may be at least partly defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103f.

[1437] The smoking substitute system 101f is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104f (and subsequently aerosolize the e-liquid) for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103f comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110f and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111f that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110f. The porous wick 110f extends across the first passage 106f (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the first passage 106f) and opposing ends of the wick 110f extend into the tank 105f (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104f). In this way, e-liquid 104f contained in the tank 105f is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110f to a central portion of the porous wick 110f so as to be exposed to the airflow in the first passage 106f (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1438] The helical filament 111f is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110f and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112f mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102f (when engaged). When the consumable 103f is engaged with the main body 102f, the electrical contacts 112f contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102f. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102f, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111f is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102f to the filament 111f in order to heat the filament 111f. This heat is transferred from the filament 111f to the porous wick 110f which causes e-liquid 104f conveyed by the porous wick 110f to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111f and the mouthpiece opening 108f of the first passage 106f, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109f, by a user of the system 101f.

[1439] The power source of the main body 102f may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). The main body 102f may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102f may also comprise a controller that controls supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111f). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111f. In this way, the filament 111f may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102f may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing).

[1440] The consumable 103f further comprises a second passage 840. The second passage comprises a flavor delivery portion 842 in fluid communication (i.e., via the second passage 840) with the mouthpiece 109f and, in particular, with the mouthpiece opening 108f of the mouthpiece 109f. The flavor delivery portion 842 may comprise a sintered polymer, a ceramic matrix, an open-cell foam and/or a cotton-based fibrous media. Flavorant may be deposited on one or more surfaces of the flavor delivery portion 110f. Alternatively, or additionally, the flavor delivery portion 110f may be impregnated with flavorant. In the illustrated embodiment the flavor delivery portion 110f comprises a channel that forms part of the second passage 840.

[1441] The flavorant may be provided in solid or liquid form. It may include menthol, licorice, chocolate, fruit flavor (including, e.g., citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g., ginger, cinnamon) and tobacco flavor. The flavorant may be evenly dispersed or may be provided in isolated locations and/or varying concentrations.

[1442] The second passage 840 comprises an outlet 844 that, as will be described further below, is arranged to discharge an airflow (i.e., a flavored airflow) towards a user's nose (i.e., nasal cavity) upon exhalation into the mouthpiece 109f. In particular, the outlet 844 is formed in an in use upper surface 846 of the consumable 103f and is arranged so as to discharge an airflow (as depicted with arrows in FIG. 20D) in a direction that is at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the first passage 106f. The outlet 844 is spaced from the mouthpiece 109f such that it does not form part of the mouthpiece 109f and, as such, may remain unobstructed when a user inhales or exhales at the mouthpiece 109f.

[1443] The second passage 840 is connected to, and branches from, the first passage 106f. Thus, the second passage 840 comprises an inlet 848 arranged to receive an airflow from the first passage 106f (as is shown in FIG. 20D) and that is located axially between the mouthpiece 109f and the wick 110f. The second passage 840 extends generally laterally from the first passage 106 and follows a generally curved profile. In particular, this curved profile is such that an airflow entering the mouthpiece opening 108f and passing into the second passage 840 is gradually redirected from flowing in an axial direction (i.e., parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first passage 106) to a lateral direction (i.e., perpendicular to the axial direction).

[1444] As is apparent from a review of FIGS. 20C and 20D, the first passage 106f and the second passage 840 are arranged such that upon inhalation from the mouthpiece 109f (i.e., through the mouthpiece opening 108f) air flows past the wick 110f to the mouthpiece opening 108f. Further, upon exhalation into the mouthpiece opening 108f air flows from the mouthpiece 1091 and past the flavor delivery portion 842. In this way, flavorant of the flavor delivery portion 842 may be entrained in the air flowing past the flavor delivery portion 842. This flavored airflow may then be discharged from the outlet 844 of the second passage 840 towards a user's nasal cavity. Thus, exhalation by a user leads to the user smelling the flavored (or scented) air. If an exhalation is performed prior to an inhalation, the flavor or aroma of the flavored air may be smelled by a user prior to and during the inhalation. This may alter a user's overall experience during the inhalation.

[1445] In order to provide different inhalation and exhalation flow paths, the illustrated embodiment comprises a flow diverter 118. The flow diverter is movable between a first position (shown in FIG. 20C) and a second position (shown in FIG. 20D). In the first position airflow from the wick 110f to the mouthpiece 109f is permitted (i.e., such that air can be inhaled through the mouthpiece opening 108f by a user), whilst airflow from the mouthpiece 109f to the flavor delivery portion 842 is prevented. In the second position airflow between the wick 110f and the mouthpiece 109f is prevented, whilst airflow from the mouthpiece 109f to the flavor delivery portion 842 is permitted.

[1446] The flow diverter 850 is hingably mounted to a wall of the first passage 106f at the side of the second passage inlet 848 that is closer to the wick 110f. In this way, in the first position the flow diverter 850 extends from its hingable mounting towards the mouthpiece opening 108f so as to extend across (and obstruct) the second passage inlet 848. In the second position, the flow diverter 850 extends diagonally across the first passage 106 so as to obstruct the first passage 106. The angle of the flow diverter 850 with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first passage 106f facilitates flow of air from the first passage 106f into the second passage 840 (through the second passage inlet 848). Whilst not shown, the flow diverter 850 may be biased to the first or second position.

[1447] The flow diverter 850 may be configured to be moved between the first and second positions by exhalation and/or inhalation (i.e., by a user) at the mouthpiece. For example, the flow diverter 850 may be configured to be moved from the first position to the second position by exhalation into the mouthpiece opening 108f of the mouthpiece 109f and/or may be configured to be moved from the second position to the first position by an inhalation from the mouthpiece 109f.

[1448] The flow diverter 850 may alternatively or additionally comprise an actuator configured to move the flow diverter 850 between the first and second positions. The actuator may be configured to move the flow diverter 850 between the first and second positions in response to a control signal from the controller. For example, the actuator may be configured to move the flow diverter 850 in response to the detection (e.g., by a sensor) of an inhalation or exhalation at the mouthpiece 109f.

[1449] Although not shown, the main body 102f and consumable 103f may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103f engaged with the main body 102f. In this respect, the consumable 103f may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface. For example, the interface may allow the detection of the flavor associated with the flavor delivery portion 842. The controller may control, e.g., the power supply in response to the detected flavor.

[1450] Seventh Mode: A Mouthpiece for a Smoking Substitute Apparatus

[1451] Aspects and embodiments of the seventh mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the seventh mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1452] FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101g. The system 101g comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102g of the system 101g, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103g. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103g (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101g. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101g is a closed system.

[1453] As is apparent from FIGS. 21A and 21B, the consumable 103g is configured to engage the main body 102g. FIG. 21A shows the main body 102g and the consumable 103g in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 21B shows the main body 102g and the consumable 103g in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103g is received in a cavity of the main body 102g and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102g and consumable 103g may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1454] The system 101g is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104g. The e-liquid 104g comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104g is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104g were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1455] As is more apparent from FIG. 21C, this e-liquid 104g is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105g that forms part of the consumable 103g. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103g is a “single-use” consumable 103g. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104g in the tank 105g, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103g. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank 105g may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1456] The tank 105g surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106g that extends between an inlet 107g and an outlet 108g at opposing ends of the consumable 103g. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103g that engages with the main body 102g, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103g that comprises a mouthpiece 109g of the system 101g. When the consumable 103g is engaged with the main body 102g, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109g so as to draw air through the passage 106g, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107g to the outlet 108g of the passage 106g. Although not illustrated, the passage 106g may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103g. The passage 106g is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103g and the main body 102g (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101g is drawn into the passage 106g (during an inhale).

[1457] The smoking substitute system 101g is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104g for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103g comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110g and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111g that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110g. The porous wick 110g extends across the passage 106g (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106g) and opposing ends of the wick 110g extend into the tank 105g (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104g). In this way, e-liquid 104g contained in the tank 105g is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110g to a central portion of the porous wick 110g so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106g (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1458] The helical filament 111g is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110g and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112g mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102g (when engaged). When the consumable 103g is engaged with the main body 102g, the electrical contacts 112g contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102g. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102g, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111g is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102g to the filament 111g in order to heat the filament 111g. This heat is transferred from the filament 111g to the porous wick 110g which causes e-liquid 104g conveyed by the porous wick 110g to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111g and the outlet 108g of the passage 106g, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109g, by a user of the system 101g.

[1459] The power source of the main body 102g may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1460] The main body 102g may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102g may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111g). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111g. In this way, the filament 111g may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102g may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1461] Although not shown, the main body 102g and consumable 103g may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103g engaged with the main body 102g. In this respect, the consumable 103g may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1462] The mouthpiece 109g of the consumable 103g includes a textured outer surface 860 which is arranged to receive a liquid flavorant and distribute the liquid flavorant across the textured outer surface 860. In the example shown, the textured outer surface 860 includes a plurality of crisscrossing channels. The channels are formed as fine grooves in the outer surface of the mouthpiece 109g. Liquid flavorant applied to textured outer surface 860 may be retained in the channels due to surface tension of the liquid flavorant in the channels, and may be distributed across the textured outer surface 860 via capillary action of the liquid flavorant in the channels. In this manner, when a drop of liquid flavorant is applied to the textured outer surface 860, the liquid flavorant may be distributed over an area corresponding to the textured outer surface 860. The textured outer surface 860 is disposed adjacent to the outlet 108g of the mouthpiece, so that it may come into contact with the user's tongue in use. In this manner, liquid flavorant held on the textured outer surface 860 may produce a flavor in the user's mouth.

[1463] FIG. 22 shows a schematic side view of a smoking substitute apparatus, in the form of consumable 862 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The consumable 862 may be similar in configuration to the mouthpiece 103 described above, e.g., it may be configured for engagement with a main body to form a smoking substitute system. The consumable 862 includes a mouthpiece 864 having an outlet 866 for conveying an aerosol generated by the smoking substitute system to a user. Adjacent to the outlet 866 is a textured outer surface 868 for receiving a liquid flavorant.

[1464] The textured outer surface 868 includes a plurality of channels formed as fine grooves in the outer surface of the mouthpiece 864. The plurality of channels includes a first set of channels 870 which are arranged in parallel and oriented along a first direction that is substantially perpendicular to a flow direction of aerosol through the outlet 866 of the mouthpiece 864. The direction of flow of aerosol through the outlet 866 is illustrated by arrow 872, and corresponds to a longitudinal direction of the consumable 862. The first set of channels 870 are interconnected by a longitudinal channel 874 which extends in the longitudinal direction of the consumable 862, i.e., the first set of channels 870 are in fluid communication via the longitudinal channel 874. The textured outer surface 868 further includes a fluid receiving portion 876 which is arranged at an intersection between the longitudinal channel 874 and a first one of the first set of channels 870. The fluid receiving portion 876 may be a shallow cavity or recess formed in the outer surface of the mouthpiece 864. The fluid receiving portion 876 is in fluid communication with the longitudinal channel 874 and the first one of the first set of channels 870.

[1465] The longitudinal channel 874 and the channels in the first set of channels 870 may be similar to the channels described above in relation to the textured outer surface 860. In particular, they are arranged to receive a liquid flavorant, and to wick liquid flavorant along their length through capillary action. Liquid flavorant deposited in the fluid receiving portion 876 may be wicked out of the fluid receiving portion 876 and into the plurality of channels. The longitudinal channel 874 may serve to convey liquid flavorant from the fluid receiving portion to each of the first set of channels 870. Thus, liquid flavorant may be substantially evenly distributed throughout the plurality of channels. In this manner, liquid flavorant deposited in the flavorant receiving portion 876 may be distributed throughout the plurality of channels (including the longitudinal channel 874 and the first set of channels). Thus, a user may only need apply liquid flavorant to the fluid receiving portion 876. The textured outer surface 868 may provide a large area containing flavorant which may come into contact with the user's mouth (e.g., tongue), which may enable effective delivery of flavorant to the user.

[1466] In use, the consumable may typically be held so that the longitudinal direction of the consumable 862 (i.e., the direction indicated by arrow 872) is tilted along a downwards angle. As the first set of channels 870 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the consumable 862, this may serve to prevent liquid flavorant in the first set of channels 870 from dripping downwards, which could cause liquid flavorant to drip off the mouthpiece 864. This may avoid liquid flavorant coming into contact with electrical components in the smoking substitute apparatus. As only one longitudinal channel 870 is provided, a comparatively small amount of liquid flavorant may be held in the longitudinal channel 870 relative to the first set of channels 870. This may reduce the risk of flavorant liquid dripping out of the longitudinal channel 870.

[1467] FIG. 23 illustrates a series of different textured outer surfaces that may be included in a mouthpiece 880 according to the disclosure. The mouthpiece 880 forms part of a consumable 882, which may be similar in configuration to the consumable 103g described above.

[1468] As illustrated in window 884 of FIG. 23, the mouthpiece 880 may have a textured outer surface comprising a plurality of randomly arranged protrusions. The randomly arranged protrusions form a series of channels (gaps) between them, the channels being dimensioned to wick liquid flavorant deposited on the surface of the mouthpiece 880. In this manner, liquid flavorant may be substantially evenly distributed across a surface of the mouthpiece 880.

[1469] Alternatively, as illustrated in window 886 of FIG. 23, the mouthpiece 880 may have a textured outer surface comprising a regular array of protrusions. In the example shown, the protrusions are substantially cylindrical in shape. The array of protrusions forms a series of channels between the protrusions, the channels being dimensioned to wick liquid flavorant deposited on the surface of the mouthpiece 880. In this manner, liquid flavorant may be substantially evenly distributed across a surface of the mouthpiece 880.

[1470] As another example, as shown in window 888 of FIG. 23, the mouthpiece 880 may include a series of crisscrossing channels which are formed as grooves in the outer surface of the mouthpiece 880. The crisscrossing channels are formed by a first set of parallel channels oriented along a first direction, and a second set of parallel channels oriented along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. In this manner, the crisscrossing channels form a grid on the outer surface of the mouthpiece 880. In this manner, liquid flavorant may be wicked along the channels in the first and second directions, to provide a substantially even distribution of liquid flavorant over an area of the mouthpiece.

[1471] FIGS. 24A-24C show schematic cross-sectional views of a flavorant dispenser 900 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The flavorant dispenser 900 may be used to dispense flavorant onto a mouthpiece of a smoking substitute apparatus, for flavor delivery to a user.

[1472] The flavorant dispenser 900 includes a reservoir 902 for holding a liquid flavorant 904. The reservoir 902 is disposed in an outer housing 918 of the flavorant dispenser 900, the outer housing 918 forming a sidewall of the reservoir 902. The flavorant dispenser further includes a dispensing portion 906 for dispensing liquid flavorant from the reservoir 902. The dispensing portion 906 includes an outlet 908 through which liquid flavorant 904 may be dispensed, and a ball valve 910. The ball valve 910 is movable between a closed position in which the ball valve 910 blocks the outlet 908 (FIGS. 24A, 24C), and an open position where the ball valve 910 does not block the outlet 908 (FIG. 24B), so that liquid flavorant 904 from the reservoir can exit via the outlet 908. The outlet 908 is defined by a ring 909, in which the ball valve 910 is held when it is in the closed position.

[1473] The ball valve 910 is mounted on a plate 912 disposed in the outer housing 918, the plate 912 forming a first end of the reservoir 902 adjacent the dispensing portion 906. The plate 912 is movable with the ball valve 910 between the open and closed positions. The plate includes a series of apertures 913. When the ball valve 910 is in the closed position, the plate 912 abuts against a surface of the ring 909, so that the apertures 913 are blocked. When the ball valve 910 is in the open position, the plate 912 is spaced from the ring 909, so that the apertures 913 are no longer blocked, and liquid flavorant 904 from the reservoir can exit the flavorant dispenser via the apertures 913 and the outlet 908.

[1474] The flavorant dispenser 900 further includes a piston 914 mounted in the outer housing 918 of the flavorant dispenser 900, such that the piston 914 forms a second end of the reservoir 902, opposite the first end of the reservoir 902. The piston 914 is movable within the reservoir 902 along a longitudinal direction of the reservoir 902. A spring 916 is mounted between an outer housing 918 of the flavorant dispenser 900 and the piston 914, and arranged to push the piston 914 towards the outlet 908. In this manner, liquid flavorant 904 in the reservoir is urged towards the outlet 908 by the piston 914, under a biasing force of the spring 916. This causes the plate 912 to be pressed against the surface of the ring 909, so that the ball valve 910 blocks the outlet 908 and the apertures 913 are blocked by the surface of the ring 909. Thus, the spring 916 biases the ball valve 908 towards the closed position. This may prevent liquid flavorant 904 from leaking out of the flavorant dispenser 900 when the dispenser is not in use. The outer housing 918 further includes an aperture 920 arranged to allow pressure equalization inside the housing 918 due to movement of the piston 914.

[1475] The flavorant dispenser 900 is designed for use with a mouthpiece 926. In particular, the flavorant dispenser 900 is configured to dispense flavorant 904 onto the mouthpiece 926 when the mouthpiece 928 is brought into engagement with the flavorant dispenser 900, as described below.

[1476] The mouthpiece 926 may, for example, be similar to mouthpiece 109g described above. For illustration purposes, only a portion of the mouthpiece 926 is shown in FIGS. 24A-24C. The mouthpiece 926 may be mounted on, or form part of, a smoking substitute apparatus. The mouthpiece 926 includes an engagement portion 928 which includes a plurality of sidewalls 930 arranged in a ring around a central protrusion 932. FIGS. 25A and 25B show top views of possible configurations of the engagement portion 928. FIG. 25A shows a top view of an engagement portion 928a including a plurality of sidewalls 930a arranged in a circular ring around central protrusion 932a. As can be seen, some of the sidewalls 930a have different thicknesses. Gaps 934a are formed between adjacent sidewalls 930a. FIG. 25B shows a top view of an engagement portion 928b including a plurality of sidewalls 930b arranged in a hexagonal ring around central protrusion 932b. As can be seen, some of the sidewalls 930b have different thicknesses. Gaps 934b are formed between adjacent sidewalls 930b.

[1477] The dispensing portion 906 of the flavorant dispenser 900 includes a set of recesses 922 defined between the ring 909 and a sidewall 924 of the outer housing 918. The recesses 922 are arranged to receive the engagement portion 928 of the mouthpiece 926. In particular, the recesses 922 are arranged to receive the plurality of sidewalls 930 of the engagement portion 928 of the mouthpiece 926. The set of recesses 922 may be shaped and arranged to receive a specific engagement portion 928, e.g., engagement portion 928a or 928b. Thus, for instance, the recesses 922 may be arranged in a circular or a hexagonal ring, and the set of recesses 922 may include recesses having different widths to accommodate sidewalls 930 having different widths. The ring 909 is configured to receive the central protrusion 932 when the sidewalls 930 are engaged in the recesses 922.

[1478] The dispensing portion 906 is arranged such that, when the sidewalls 930 are received in the recesses 922, the sidewalls 930 abut against the plate 912 to press the plate 912 away from the ring 909. This enables flavorant to flow through the apertures 913 in the plate 912 and through the outlet 908, so that flavorant may be dispensed. In this manner, engagement between the dispensing portion 906 and the engagement portion 928 on the mouthpiece 926 causes flavorant 904 to be dispensed from the flavorant dispenser 900.

[1479] As a result of the arrangement of the set of recesses 922, the dispensing portion 926 is configured for engagement with a mouthpiece having a specifically arranged engagement portion. In some cases, the dispensing portion 926 and engagement portion of the mouthpiece may be arranged so that the dispensing portion 926 and the engagement portion can only be engaged when they are in a specific orientation. In this manner, the engagement portion of the mouthpiece may be considered as a key which is arranged for engagement with the dispensing portion.

[1480] We will now describe a process of dispensing flavorant onto the mouthpiece 926 using flavorant dispenser 900, with reference to FIGS. 24A-24C.

[1481] In FIG. 24A, the ball valve 910 is in the closed position and the reservoir 902 contains liquid flavorant 904. The ball valve 910 is maintained in the closed position, via the piston 914 which presses the liquid flavorant 904 against the plate 912, under action of the spring 916. The flavorant dispenser 900 is approached towards the engagement portion 928 of the mouthpiece 926, as indicated by arrow 940.

[1482] In FIG. 24B, the dispensing portion 906 of the flavorant dispenser 900 is engaged with the engagement portion 928 of the mouthpiece 926. In particular, the sidewalls 930 of the engagement portion 928 are received in the recesses 922 of the dispensing portion 906, and the central protrusion 932 is received in the ring 909. In this configuration, the sidewalls 930 abut against the plate 912 so that the plate 912 is spaced apart from the ring 909. As a result, the ball valve 910 is lifted out of the ring 909 so that the outlet 908 is no longer blocked, and the apertures 913 in the plate 912 are no longer blocked by the surface of the ring 909. Accordingly, liquid flavorant 904 may flow out of the reservoir 902 via the apertures 913 and the outlet 908.

[1483] When the dispensing portion 906 is engaged with the engagement portion 928 of the mouthpiece 926, the sidewalls 930 of the engagement portion 928 and the sidewall 924 of the outer housing 918 together define a receptacle (cavity) into which liquid flavorant 904 dispensed by the dispensing portion 906 is received. In particular, the sidewall 924 of the outer housing 918 may serve to prevent liquid flavorant 904 from escaping via gaps 934a, 934b between the sidewalls 930 of the engagement portion. Thus, whilst the dispensing portion 906 is engaged with the engagement portion 928, dispensed liquid flavorant may be contained within the sidewalls 930. The receptacle defined by the sidewalls 930 and sidewall 924 may have a predetermined volume, so that only a predetermined volume of liquid flavorant 904 may be dispensed when the dispensing portion 906 is engaged with the engagement portion 928.

[1484] After liquid flavorant 904 has been dispensed by the dispensing portion 906, the dispensing portion 906 may be disengaged from the mouthpiece, as shown in FIG. 24C and indicated by arrow 942. In this configuration, the ball valve 910 once again returns to the closed position due to the pressure exerted by the spring 916. A volume 938 of liquid flavorant 904 corresponding to the predetermined volume dispensed by the dispensing portion 906 is left on the mouthpiece 926. As the sidewall 924 of the outer housing 918 no longer blocks the gaps 934a, 934b between the sidewalls 930 of the engagement portion 928, the volume 938 of liquid flavorant may spread over a surface of the mouthpiece 926. For example, if the mouthpiece includes a textured outer surface, the textured outer surface may serve to distribute the volume 938 of liquid flavorant over an area of the mouthpiece 926.

[1485] Accordingly, the flavorant dispenser 900 may serve to dispense a predetermined volume of liquid flavorant 904 onto the surface of the mouthpiece 926 in a controlled manner. Specificity between the dispensing portion 906 and the engagement portion 928 of the mouthpiece 926 may ensure that the flavorant dispenser 900 is only used to dispense liquid flavorant onto the mouthpiece 926. This may prevent accidental dispensing of liquid flavorant, or dispensing of liquid flavorant on devices which are not intended for use with the flavorant dispenser 900.

[1486] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 926 and flavorant dispenser 900 may be provided as a kit.

[1487] Eighth Mode: A Smoking Substitute Apparatus that Allows an Aerosol Former to be Stored Separately from a Property Modifying Agent

[1488] Aspects and embodiments of the eighth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the eighth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1489] FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101h. The system 101h comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102h of the system 101h, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103h. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103h (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101h. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101h is a closed system.

[1490] As is apparent from FIGS. 26A and 26B, the consumable 103h is configured to engage the main body 102h. FIG. 26A shows the main body 102h and the consumable 103h in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 26B shows the main body 102h and the consumable 103h in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103h is received in a cavity of the main body 102h and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102h and consumable 103h may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1491] The system 101h is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104h. The e-liquid 104h comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104h is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104h were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1492] As is more apparent from FIG. 26C, this e-liquid 104h is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105h that forms part of the consumable 103h. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103h is a “single-use” consumable 103h. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104h in the tank 105h, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103h. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1493] The tank 105h surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106h that extends between an inlet 107h and an outlet 108h at opposing ends of the consumable 103h. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103h that engages with the main body 102h, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103h that comprises a mouthpiece 109h of the system 101h. When the consumable 103h is engaged with the main body 102h, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109h so as to draw air through the passage 106h, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107h to the outlet 108h of the passage 106h. Although not illustrated, the passage 106h may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103h. The passage 106h is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103h and the main body 102h (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101h is drawn into the passage 106h (during an inhale).

[1494] The smoking substitute system 101h is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104h for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103h comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110h and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111h that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110h. The porous wick 110h extends across the passage 106h (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106h) and opposing ends of the wick 110h extend into the tank 105h (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104h). In this way, e-liquid 104h contained in the tank 105h is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110h to a central portion of the porous wick 110h so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106h (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1495] The helical filament 111h is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110h and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112h mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102h (when engaged). When the consumable 103h is engaged with the main body 102h, the electrical contacts 112h contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102h. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102h, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111h is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102h to the filament 111h in order to heat the filament 111h. This heat is transferred from the filament 111h to the porous wick 110h which causes e-liquid 104h conveyed by the porous wick 110h to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111h and the outlet 108h of the passage 106h, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109h, by a user of the system 101h.

[1496] The power source of the main body 102h may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1497] The main body 102h may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102h may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111h). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111h. In this way, the filament 111h may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102h may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1498] Although not shown, the main body 102h and consumable 103h may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103h engaged with the main body 102h. In this respect, the consumable 103h may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1499] FIG. 27 illustrates an aerosol forming device, or a consumable 203h, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The consumable 203h comprises a tank 205h that is equally divided into a first compartment 205h-1 and a second compartment 205h-2 by a partition wall 950. In other words, the first compartment 205h-1 and the second compartment 205h-2 shares the partition wall 950. The partition wall 950 extends from a base of the consumable along the length of the first compartment 205h-1 and second compartment 205h-2. In the illustrated embodiment the first compartment 205h-1 and the second compartment 205h-2 are of equal volume, e.g., 1:1. In other embodiments, the ratio of the volume of the first compartment to the volume of the second compartment may be in the range of 1:1 to 9:1.

[1500] In the illustrated embodiment, the first compartment 205h-1 contains a supply of aerosol former, or e-liquid 204h, and the second compartment 205h-2 contains a property modifying agent 204h-2, or an additive. The aerosol former is in a liquid form. The aerosol former comprises nicotine and a base liquid, e.g., propylene glycol. The aerosol former does not contain any flavorant and therefore the aerosol former is not flavored. The aerosol former in this embodiment does not contain any colorant. That is, the aerosol former is in the natural color of the propylene glycol and the nicotine, and therefore it appears as a translucent or transparent liquid.

[1501] The property modifying agent 204h-2 in the illustrated embodiment is a liquid property modifying agent, comprises a flavorant and a colorant respectively configured to modify the flavor and color of the e-liquid 204h-1 as stored in the first compartment 205h-1. In other embodiments, the property modifying agent may be a solid, a gel, a liquid or a gas, and may comprise only a flavorant without the presence of a colorant or may comprise a colorant without the presence of a flavorant.

[1502] The partition wall 950 as shown in FIG. 27 comprises an opening 952. The opening 952 effects fluid communication between the first compartment 205h-1 and the second compartment 205h-2. The opening 952 is sealed by a barrier or removable seal 954 prior to its removal. More specifically, a seal portion 956 of the removable seal 954 covers the opening 952 in a sealing position and thereby hermetically seals the opening 952. Therefore, in the sealing position, the seal portion 956 of the removable seal 954 prevents fluid communication between the first compartment 205h-1 and the second compartment 205h-2. The removable seal 954 is configured to be removed from the sealing position and thereby detaches the seal portion 956 form the opening 952, and thereby establishes fluid communication between the first compartment 205h-1 and second compartment 205h-2.

[1503] The removable seal 954 additionally comprises a tab portion 958 in connection with the seal portion 956. That is the seal portion 956 is formed together with the tab portion 958 to form the removable seal. Said tab portion 958 extends, along a slot in the consumable 203h and outwardly from the base of the consumable 203h through a check valve 960, such that at least a part of the tab portion 958 is accessible to a user. The tab portion 958 comprises an enlarged portion 962 external to the consumable 203h for a user to grip onto.

[1504] Prior to use or in use, the user may pull on the tab portion 958 away from the consumable 203h to detach the seal portion 956 from the opening 952. The removable seal 954 is then completely removed from the consumable 203h to be disposed of. Doing so establishes fluid communication between the first compartment 205h-1 and second compartment 205h-2, thereby allowing the aerosol former 204a in the first compartment 205h-1 to come into contact with the property modifying agent 204h-2 in the second compartment 205h-2. More specifically, the property modifying agent 204h-2 may diffuse into or mix with the aerosol former 204a to form a modified aerosol former once they come into contact with each other. Furthermore, a user may shake the consumable 203h to promote mixing of the aerosol former 204a and the property modifying agent 204h-2.

[1505] In the illustrated embodiment, the property modifying agent 204a comprises a mixture of flavorant and colorant. The colorant may serve as a visual indicator indicating the degree of homogeneity in the modified aerosol former. More specifically, the user may visually inspect the modified aerosol former through a translucent wall of the consumable 203h. For example, a uniform distribution of color in the modified aerosol former across the first and second compartment indicates that the flavorant and colorant are homogenously mixed with the aerosol former. On the other hand, localized fluctuation in color signals uneven blending of the aerosol former 204a and the property modifying agent 204h-2 and further mixing is required.

[1506] In another embodiment, the opening is closed by a valve that is actuated by an actuator extending outwardly from the consumable. The actuator is a lever that is mechanically linked to the valve to actuate the valve from a closed position which prevents fluid communication to an opened position which establishes fluid commutation between the first and second compartments.

[1507] In such embodiment, the valve is a check valve 960 which allows the property modifying agent to flow from the second compartment towards the first compartment. This allows the flavorant and colorant to be dosed to the aerosol former in the first compartment, whilst preventing the aerosol former form entering the second compartment. In use, a user may actuate the actuator to control the flow of property modifying agent through said opening, and therefore dispense a desired amount of the property modifying agent from the first compartment into the second compartment. This advantageously allows the user to personalize the flavor and/or color of the e-liquid by controlling the dosage of flavorant and/or colorant.

[1508] In another embodiment, the partition wall 950 does not comprise an opening. Instead, the partition wall is removable for merging the second compartment with the first compartment to form a combined compartment. In this case, the partition wall comprises a planar element movable along a pair of slots extending in between the first and second compartments. In use, a user may pull the removable partition wall along the slot so as to remove said wall from the smoking substitute apparatus. The first and second compartments are then merge into a single combined compartment, i.e., the aerosol former in the first compartment and the property modifying agent in the second compartment may mix in the combined compartment.

[1509] FIG. 28 illustrates an aerosol forming device, or a consumable 203h-2, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The consumable 203h-2 is the similar in construction to the consumable 203h as shown in FIG. 27. For example, the consumable 203h-2 also comprises a partition wall 950 separating a first compartment 205h-3 and second compartment 205h-4. A removable seal 954-2 is provided for sealing an opening 952-2 at the partition wall 950. Removing the removable seal 954-2 establishes fluid communication between the first compartment 205h-3 and the second compartment 205h-4.

[1510] The consumable 203h-2 differs to the consumable 203h of FIG. 27 in that the consumable 203h-2 additionally comprises a compartment inlet 964 at the base of the second compartment 205h-4. The compartment inlet 964 is closed by a cover 966 hingedly connected to the body of the consumable 203h-2. The cover 966 is pivotable between a closed position that hermetically seals the second compartment 205h-4, and an open position that allows a property modifying agent 204h-2 to be added to the second compartment 205h-4. More specifically, the consumable 203h-2 is supplied with only an aerosol former 204h-1 provided in the first compartment 205h-3. The second compartment 205h-4 is empty having a void. Such arrangement allows the user to add a desired amount, and/or variety, of property modifying agent to the second compartment before it is mixed with the aerosol former. For example, a user may opt to add different flavorants (e.g., tobacco and blueberry flavor) into the second compartment 205h-4 so as to create a personalized vaping experience.

[1511] The property modifying agent 204h-2 in the illustrated example is a solid property modifying agent 204h-2 comprising a mixture of flavorant and colorant. In use, a user may pivot the cover 966 from the close position towards the open position, before insert the solid property modifying agent 204h-2 into the second compartment 205h-4. The user may then put the cover 966 into the close position to seal the second compartment 205h-4 from the atmosphere.

[1512] Similar to the consumable 203h of FIG. 27, upon removing the removable seal 954-2 from the consumable 203h-2 fluid communication is established, via the opening 952-2, between the first compartment 205h-3 and second compartment 205h-4. This allows the aerosol former 204h-1 to flow through the opening 952-2 and contacts the solid property modifying agent 204h-2 in the second compartment 205h-4. In the presence of aerosol former 204h-1, the solid property modifying agent 204h-2 dissolves and thereby releases the flavorant and colorant into the aerosol former 204h-1.

[1513] The solid property modifying agent 204h-2 may promptly dissolve in the aerosol former 204h-1, as such a modified aerosol former may be produced instantaneously. Alternatively, the solid property modifying agent 204h-2 may dissolve gradually and therefore the concentration of flavorant and colorant in the modified aerosol former may vary with time. This allows the user to control the strength of flavor and color in the generated aerosol according to his/her preference.

[1514] FIGS. 29A, 29B and 29C sequentially show a dispenser 820h dispensing a property modifying agent 968 to a second compartment 802h of a consumable 203h-3. The property modifying agent 968 in this case is solid property modifying agent in the form of pellets 968, comprising flavorant and colorant. FIG. 29A and FIG. 29C show the dispenser 820h being separated from the consumable 203h-3 and FIG. 29B shows the dispenser 820h is engaged with the consumable 203h-3. The dispenser 820h comprises a storage 822h for storing a supply of pellets 968 and a dispensing chamber 824h for storing a predetermined number of pellets to be dispensed. For example, the dispensing chamber 824h is sized to receive the required number of pellets to be dispensed, in this case a single pellet. However, the dispensing chamber 824h may be sized to receive a plurality of pellets such that said plurality of pellets may be dispensed at once. When the dispenser is separated from the consumable, as shown in FIG. 29A, a dispensing element 826h-d prevents the pellet from being dispensed out of the dispensing chamber 824h.

[1515] The dispenser comprises a dispensing mechanism, which is formed of dispensing elements 826h-a, 826h-b, 826h-c and 826h-d, and is configured to be activated by a corresponding activating mechanism 828h-a and 828h-b at or near a compartment inlet of the consumable 203h-3. More specifically, the activating mechanism 828h-a and 828h-b are protrusions that, when the dispenser 820h is engaged with the consumable 203h-3 as shown in FIG. 29B, push onto the dispensing element 826h-a and 826h-b and thereby urges the dispensing mechanism towards an upward direction. This causes the dispensing element 826h-d to move and thereby allows the pellet 968 in the dispensing chamber 824h to dispense through a dispenser outlet 830h into the second compartment 802h. Furthermore, when the dispensing mechanism is activated as shown in FIG. 29B, a slot formed between the dispensing element 826h-b and 826h-c also moves in line with a pellet 968 stored in the storage 822h and thereby allowing the pellet 968 in the storage 822h to drop into the dispensing chamber 824h. That is, activating the dispensing mechanism causes a pellet to be dispensed out of the dispensing chamber 824h, as well as allowing a pellet from the storage 822h to replenish the dispensing chamber.

[1516] Ninth Mode: A Smoking Substitute Apparatus Comprising a User Controllable Valve

[1517] Aspects and embodiments of the ninth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the ninth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1518] FIGS. 30A and 30B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101i. The system 101i comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102i of the system 101i, and an aerosol delivery device in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103i. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103i (aerosol delivery device) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101i. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101i is a closed system.

[1519] As is apparent from FIGS. 30A and 30B, the consumable 103i is configured to engage the main body 102i. FIG. 30A shows the main body 102i and the consumable 103i in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 30B shows the main body 102i and the consumable 103i in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103i is received in a cavity of the main body 102i and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102i and consumable 103i may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1520] The system 101i is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104i. The e-liquid 104i comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104i is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104i were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1521] As is more apparent from FIGS. 30C to 30E, this e-liquid 104i is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105i that forms part of the consumable 103i. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103i is a “single-use” consumable 103i. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104i in the tank 105i, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103i. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1522] The tank 105i surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a first passage 106i that extends between an inlet 107i-1 and an outlet 108i at opposing ends of the consumable 103i. In this respect, the passage 106i comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103i that engages with the main body 102i, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103i that comprises a mouthpiece 109i of the system 101i. When the consumable 103i is engaged with the main body 102i, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109i so as to draw air through the passage 106i, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows in FIGS. 30C and 30E) in a direction from the inlet 107i-1 to the outlet 108i. The first passage 106i is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103i and the main body 102i (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101i is drawn into the first passage 106i (during an inhale).

[1523] The smoking substitute system 101i is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104i for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103i comprises a heater having a porous wick 110i and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111i that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110i. The porous wick 110i extends across the first passage 106i (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106i) and opposing ends of the wick 110i extend into the tank 105i (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104i). In this way, e-liquid 104i contained in the tank 105i is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110i to a central portion of the porous wick 110i so as to be exposed to the airflow in the first passage 106i (i.e., caused by a user inhaling). In other embodiments the heating filament 111i and/or wick 110i may form part of the main body (but may engage the tank 105i during engagement of the main body 102i and the consumable 103i).

[1524] The helical filament 111i is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110i and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112i mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102i (when engaged). When the consumable 103i is engaged with the main body 102i, the electrical contacts 112i contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102i. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102i, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111i is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102i to the filament 111i in order to heat the filament 111i. This heat is transferred from the filament 111i to the porous wick 110i which causes e-liquid 104i conveyed by the porous wick 110i to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow in the first passage 106i and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111i and the outlet 108i, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109i, by a user of the system 101i.

[1525] The power source of the main body 102i may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1526] The main body 102i may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102i may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111i). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111i. In this way, the filament 111i may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102i may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1527] Although not shown, the main body 102i and consumable 103i may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103i engaged with the main body 102i. In this respect, the consumable 103i may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1528] The consumable 103i additionally comprises a second passage 970 that is arranged in parallel with the first passage 106i and (like the first passage 106i) is in fluid communication with the outlet 108i. Thus, the second passage 970 extends between an inlet 107i-2 and the outlet 108i. The second passage 970 comprises an additive delivery portion, in the form of a porous element 972 impregnated with a flavorant. The porous element 972 is located in the second passage 970 between the inlet 107i-2 and the outlet 108i so as to partially obstruct the passage 970. This porous element 972 delivers a flavorant to an airflow as it flows through the filter 972. Thus, when air is drawn through the outlet 108i and flows from the second passage 970 flavorant is carried from the porous element 972 to the outlet 108i.

[1529] Because the porous element 972 partially obstructs the passage 970, In addition to delivering a flavorant, the porous element 972 acts as an airflow restrictor. In other words, the porous element 972 increases the resistance to airflow of the second passage 970, such that the resistance to airflow of the second passage 970 is substantially greater than the resistance to airflow of the first passage 106i. As will be described further below, this allows the airflow through the second passage 970 to be controlled by way of a valve 974 forming part of the first passage 106i.

[1530] The valve 974 is movable transversely across the first passage 106i between first (FIG. 30C), second (FIG. 30D) and third (FIG. 30E) positions. That is, the valve 974 is movable progressively from a position in which the first passage 106i is unobstructed by the valve (i.e., the first position) to a position in which is obstructs the first passage 106i (i.e., the third position). In the illustrated embodiment, the valve is slidably engaged with a wall of the first passage 106i and comprises a barrier 978 and a pushbutton 976 rigidly connected to the barrier 978. Thus, a user can press the pushbutton 976 to move the barrier 978 transversely across the first passage 106i.

[1531] In the first position (FIG. 30C) the barrier 978 is retracted so as not to extend into the first passage 106i. In this position, the second passage 970 has a substantially greater resistance to airflow than the first passage 106i. Hence, the first passage 106i defines a path of least resistance an airflow drawn through the outlet 108i (as shown by the arrows) will flow through the first passage 106i and not the second passage 970. That is, the airflow received at the outlet 108i is exclusively formed of aerosol flowing from the first passage 106i.

[1532] In the second position (FIG. 30D), the barrier 978 extends partway across the first passage 106i. In this position the barrier 978 increases the resistance to airflow of the first passage 106i such that air (drawn through the outlet 108i) flows through both the first 106i and second 970 passages. Thus, the airflow received at the outlet 108i is a combination of aerosol (flowing through the first passage 106i) and flavored air (flowing from the second passage 970).

[1533] In the third position (FIG. 30E), the barrier 978 extends across the first passage 106i so as to fully obstruct the first passage 106i. Thus, air is forced to flow through the second passage 970 and the air received at the outlet 108i is exclusively formed of flavored air received from the second passage 970.

[1534] As should be apparent, the valve 974 allows a user to control (or select) the amount of additive (in this case flavorant) received through the outlet 108i.

[1535] FIGS. 31A to 33B illustrate three exemplary valves that may, for example, form part of the substitute smoking system described above with reference to FIGS. 30A to 30E.

[1536] In FIGS. 31A and 31B, the valve 974-1 is similar to that described above, except that it further comprises a biasing means in the form of a compression spring 980. The compression spring 980 is disposed between a distal end of the barrier 978-1 and an opposing wall of the first passage 106i-1, and is configured to urge the valve 974-1 towards the first position (i.e., retracted from the first passage 106i-1). Thus, in order to move the valve 974-1 from the first position (FIG. 31A) to the third position (FIG. 31B), a user must push the valve 974-1 against the biasing force of the spring 980.

[1537] The valve 974-2 of FIGS. 32A and 32B operates in a slightly different manner. In this embodiment the barrier 978-2 of the valve 974-2 comprises an aperture 982 that allows an airflow to pass through the barrier 978-2. Thus, in this embodiment, in the first position (FIG. 32B), the valve 974-2 extends across the first passage 106i-2 and an airflow passes through the aperture 982. In the third position (FIG. 32A) the valve 978-2 is retracted from the passage 106i-2, but the airflow is blocked by a shroud 984 of the biasing member (i.e., a compression spring 980-2). Thus, in this embodiment the valve 974-2 is biased by the compression spring 980-2 into the third position.

[1538] In the embodiment of FIGS. 33A and 33B, the valve 974-3 is hingeably mounted, by way of a hinge 986, to a wall of the first passage 106i-3. Thus, the valve 974-3 is configured to rotate (about the hinge 986) between the first (FIG. 33A) and second (FIG. 33B) positions. In particular, the valve 974-3 rotates in response to an airflow in the first passage 106i-3. This rotation is facilitated by lip 988 at a distal end of the barrier 978-3. As is shown in FIG. 33B, rotation of the valve 974-3 causes the barrier 978-3 to partially obstruct the first passage 106i-3. In this embodiment the valve 974-3 is biased towards the first position by a biasing member 980-3 extending between the valve 974-3 and the wall of the first passage 106i-3 to which the valve 974-3 is mounted.

[1539] Tenth Mode: A Heater to Heat Fluid Passing Through a Smoking Substitute Device

[1540] Aspects and embodiments of the tenth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1541] FIGS. 34 and 35 illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101j. The system 101j comprises an e-cigarette device defining a reusable main body 102j of the system 101j, and a smoking substitute device in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103j, which may also be referred to as a precursor part. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103j (smoking substitute device) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101j. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101j is a closed system.

[1542] As is apparent from FIGS. 34 and 35, the consumable 103j is configured to engage the main body 102j. FIG. 34 shows the main body 102j and the consumable 103j in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 35 shows the main body 102j and the consumable 103j in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103j is received in a cavity of the main body 102j and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102j and consumable 103j may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1543] The system 101j is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former or aerosol precursor, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104j. The e-liquid 104j comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104j is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104j were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste. It is to be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments the e-liquid 104j may comprise an inherent flavorant. In the present specification, the term flavorant may be understood as referring to one or more substances effective to activate at least one of an olfactory receptor in a human nasal cavity; and a taste receptor in a human oral cavity.

[1544] As is more apparent from FIG. 36, the e-liquid 104j is stored within a precursor reservoir in the form of a tank 105j that forms part of the consumable 103j. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103j is a “single-use” consumable 103j. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104j in the tank 105j, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103j. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol precursor) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1545] The tank 105j surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a fluid flow passage 106j-2 that extends between an inlet 107j-2 and an outlet 108j-2 at opposing ends of the consumable 103j. In this respect, the passage 106j-2 comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103j that engages with the main body 102j, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103j that comprises a mouthpiece 109j of the system 101j. The fluid flow passage 106j-2 comprises an inlet 107j-2 at its upstream end, and an outlet at its downstream end, the outlet 108j-2 thus forming part of, or being located at, the mouthpiece 109j. When the consumable 103j is engaged with the main body 102j, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109j so as to draw air through the passage 106j-2, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107j-2 to the outlet 108j-2 of the passage 106j-2.

[1546] The passage 106j-2 may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube or a tube formed from plastic material) extending through the consumable 103j. At its upstream inlet end, the passage 106j-2 may be in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103j and the main body 102j when the consumable 103j and the main body 102j are interengaged, such that when a user draws on the outlet 108j-2 at the mouthpiece 109j, ambient air from outside of the system 101j is drawn into the passage 106j-2 via the inlet 107j-2.

[1547] Alternatively, the main body 102j may additionally comprise a fluid passage 106j-1, extending from a main body inlet 107j-1 to a main body outlet 108j-1 as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 37. In such an arrangement, the main body outlet 108j-1 may be arranged such that when the main body 102j and consumable 103j are interengaged, a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed at the connection point between main body outlet 108j-1 and fluid inlet 107j-2, meaning that main body fluid passage 106j-1 and consumable passage 106j-2 become interconnected to form a single passage 106j extending through the smoking substitute system 101j and fluidly connecting main body inlet 107j-1 and consumable outlet 108j-2. Furthermore, the main body fluid passage 106j-1 or the consumable fluid passage 106j-2 may be shaped to provide a recess or receptacle 1000 into which a source of flavorant 132j may be received, as will be described in more detail hereinafter.

[1548] The smoking substitute system 101j is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104j for inhalation by a user. To provide this function, the consumable 103j is provided with an aerosol generator comprising a porous wick 110j and a resistive heating element in the form of a precursor heating filament 111j that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110j. The aerosol generator is arranged between the inlet 107j-1 and the outlet 108j-2 of the smoking substitute system 101j, and is in fluid communication with both the inlet 107j-1 and the outlet 108j-2. The porous wick 110j extends across the passage 106j (e.g., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106j), and opposing ends of the wick 110j extend into the tank 105j so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104j so as to draw e-liquid from the tank 105j via wicking or capillary action. In this way, e-liquid 104j contained in the tank 105j is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110j to a central portion of the porous wick 110j so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106j caused by a user inhaling or drawing on the mouthpiece 109j. The helical filament 111j is wound about the exposed central portion of the porous wick 110j and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112j mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102j (when engaged).

[1549] When the consumable 103j is engaged with the main body 102j, the electrical contacts 112j make contact with corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102j. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102j, such that the filament 111j is electrically connected to the power source when the consumable 103j and the main body 102j are interengaged. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102j to the filament 111j in order to heat the filament 111j. This heat is transferred from the filament 111j to the porous wick 110j which causes e-liquid 104j conveyed by the porous wick 110j to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow past the wick 110j and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111j and the outlet 108j-2 of the passage 106j, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109j, by a user of the system 101j.

[1550] The power source of the main body 102j may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). The main body 102j may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102j may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111j). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111j. In this way, the filament 111j may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102j may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1551] Although not shown, the main body 102j and consumable 103j may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103j engaged with the main body 102j. In this respect, the consumable 103j may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1552] In the illustrated smoking substitute system 101j, an additional heater 130j (i.e., separate from and in addition to the heater of the aerosol generator) is provided upstream of the aerosol generator along a fluid passage 106j connecting the fluid inlet 107j-1 or 107j-2 and the aerosol generator. Further, a source of flavorant 132j is provided along the fluid passage 106j, between the additional heater 130j and the aerosol generator, such that the source of flavorant 132j is presented to a flow of fluid from the additional heater 130j towards the aerosol generator. The arrangement is thus configured such that said flow of fluid is heated by the additional heater 130j to release flavorant 132j from the source for entrainment in said fluid upstream of the aerosol generator.

[1553] The flavorant 132j may be formulated such that heated fluid is required to release the flavorant 132j from the source. In other words, a fluid flow (for example from inhalation) without operation of the additional heater 130j would cause substantially no flavorant 132j to be entrained therein. This would allow, for example, for a user to select whether or not to use the flavorant during a vaping session. Further, this type of configuration may allow for control of intensity of the flavor, for example by varying the temperature of the additional heater 130j.

[1554] Using the additional heater 130j to heat a fluid flow, said fluid flow then being flowed past the source of flavorant to heat it indirectly, rather than heating the source of flavorant 132j directly, may allow for a greater range of flavorants to be used in smoking substitute system 101j. For example, it may allow the use of thermally sensitive flavorants 132j which could be degraded by the direct application of heat from a heater. Further, heating the fluid rather than heating the flavorant 132j directly may prolong the life of the additional heater 130j by preventing it from becoming fouled with residual flavorant 132j.

[1555] The additional heater 130j may be operable in combination (for example in synchronism or with a predetermined operating time offset) with the heating filament 111j of the aerosol generator. Additionally, or alternatively, the additional heater 130j and the heating filament 111j of the aerosol generator may be operable independently of one another.

[1556] In embodiments in which the e-liquid 104j contains an inherent flavorant, it will be appreciated that the release of flavorant 132j from the source in the manner noted above will serve to supplement, and optionally blend with, the flavorant of the e-liquid in use. For example, the flavorant 132j of the source may have the same flavor as that in the e-liquid 104j in order to supplement the flavor provided within the e-liquid and thereby provide the user with an intensified flavor sensation. Alternatively, the flavorant 132j of the source may be complementary to that in the e-liquid 104j (i.e., the flavors/aromas of the two flavorants, when mixed, provide a pleasing sensory combination to a user). Providing the flavorant 132j separately to the aerosol precursor 104j affords the user an opportunity to change between different flavorants 132j without necessitating a change of e-liquid, for example during a vaping session.

[1557] The additional heater 130j may comprise one or more heating elements such as resistive heating elements in the form of a mesh or a coil, around or through which fluid may flow. Such heating elements may extend partially or substantially completely across the passage 106j to maximize heat transfer from the or each element to the fluid. Alternatively, or additionally, the or each heating element may form a part of the peripheral wall of passage 106j.

[1558] Various arrangements within the smoking substitute device 101j, and specific configurations of both the additional heater 130j and the source of flavorant 132j are possible, some examples of which are described below.

[1559] For example, the additional heater 130j may be located in the main body 102j, as illustrated in FIG. 37. The configuration of the passage 106j-1 illustrated in FIG. 37 is for illustrative purposes only, and is not intended to be limiting. For example, the fluid inlet 107j-1 might alternatively be located closer to or further away from the end of main body 102j which is configured to engage with the smoking substitute device 103j than illustrated, or may even be located on a different face of the main body 102j. The recess 1000 maybe omitted, or may be located at a different position along the fluid passage 106j-1. Other components of the main body 102j (e.g., the power source) are not illustrated in FIG. 37 for clarity, but may be arranged to be adjacent to or surround all or part of the fluid passage 106j-1 as required.

[1560] In the case of embodiments in which the additional heater 130j is provided within the main body 102j of the system, the source of flavorant 132j may take the form of a flavorant reservoir 133j located either in the main body 102j, or as part of the consumable 103j. The flavorant reservoir 133j may surround, and thus define, at least part of the passage 106j. Alternatively, the flavorant reservoir 133j may be located adjacent to, but not surround the passage 106j. The flavorant provided in such a flavorant reservoir 133j may be provided, for example, as a flavored liquid. A reservoir 133j that is provided within the main body 102j may be user-refillable, and may thus be located proximate to the interface between main body 102j and the consumable pod 103j to allow convenient user-access for refilling. The flavorant reservoir may be at least partially filled during manufacture of the consumable 103j such that the user is not required to fill the reservoir with flavorant before using the consumable.

[1561] The flavorant reservoir may further comprise one or more porous wicks 134j extending across at least part of fluid flow passage 106j, so as to be presented to a fluid flow therethrough (e.g., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106j), as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 38, where the reservoir is denoted as 133j-1. In embodiments where the flavorant reservoir 133j-1 surrounds a portion of the passage 106j, the porous wick 134j may extend substantially completely across the passage 106j, such that both opposing ends of the wick extend into the flavorant reservoir 133j-1. Alternatively, in embodiments where the flavorant reservoir 133j-1 does not surround the passage 106j, only one end of each porous wick 134j may extend into the flavorant reservoir 133j-1, with the other end being located within the passage 106j. The end or ends of the porous wicks 134j that extend into the flavorant reservoir 133j-1 are arranged to be submerged in the flavorant 132j. In this way, flavorant 132j contained in the flavorant reservoir 133j-1 is conveyed from the end or ends of the porous wick 134j that extend into the flavorant reservoir 133j-1 to a portion of the porous wick 134j located within the passage 106 so as to be exposed to the airflow therein (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1562] Alternatively, or additionally, at least a part of a barrier separating the passage 106j from the flavorant reservoir 133j-2 may be permeable to flavorant 132j as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 39. FIG. 39 illustrates a perforated barrier 135j separating the passage 106j from the flavorant reservoir 133j-2. The barrier may thus comprise one or more small apertures 136j to permit the passage of flavorant therethrough, and may be formed as part of the sidewall of the flow passage 106j. In this type of arrangement, flavorant 132j may permeate through the barrier from the flavorant reservoir 133j-2 to the passage 106j, for example by capillary action, so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106j (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1563] In an alternative arrangement illustrated in FIG. 40, the flavorant reservoir 133j-3 is housed within the flow passage 106j so as to extend substantially completely across the flow passage 106j. As will be observed, in this arrangement, the reservoir 133j-3 is provided with a plurality of relatively small diameter bores 106j-1, each of which extends fully through the reservoir from its upstream end to its downstream end. Each bore 106j-1 may be defined by a similar permeable barrier 135j-3 (each of which may thus be perforated with small apertures 136j-3) in a similar manner to the barrier arrangement described above with reference to FIG. 40. As will be appreciated, fluid flow through the flow passage 106j will thus become split into separate flow streams through the bores 106j-1 of the reservoir, the flow streams then rejoining and mixing with one another downstream of the reservoir. This type of multi-bore configuration of the reservoir 133j-3 can be effective to increase the effective surface area through which the flavorant can permeate, when compared to the single barrier arrangement of FIG. 39, which can be effective to increase the concentration of flavorant which may be entrained in the airflow through the passage 106j.

[1564] Alternatively, with reference to FIG. 41, in embodiments where the additional heater 130j is provided within the main body 102j of the system, it is envisaged that the source of flavorant 132j may be a flavored article 137j, comprising a substrate 138j carrying the flavorant 132j. Such a flavored article 137j may be received within the fluid flow passage 106j, which may be shaped to provide a recess or receptacle 1000 within which the flavored article 137j may be located. At least part of the substrate 138j may be formed from a polymeric material (e.g., silicone). Further, at least part of the substrate 138j may be formed from a porous material, foam or foamed material as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 41. Still further, at least a part of the substrate 138j may be formed from an air permeable material. The flavorant 132j may be one or both of comprised within or coated on a surface of the substrate 138j. The flavorant 132j may be introduced into the flavored article 137j by coating (e.g., spray coating). Alternatively, or additionally, the flavorant 132j may be introduced or impregnated into the flavored article 137j by, for example, immersion of the substrate 138j in a liquid comprising flavorant 132j. This process of introducing flavorant 132j could either be carried out during manufacture of the flavored article 137j, or by an end-user.

[1565] Alternatively, having regard to FIG. 42, the source of flavorant 132j may be a “flavor pod” 139j comprising a container 140j at least partially filled with the flavorant 132j. Similar to the flavored article 137j illustrated in FIG. 41, the flavor pod 139j may be received within the passage 106j, which may be shaped to provide a recess or receptacle 1000 into which the flavor pod 139j may be located. When in place, a surface of the flavor pod 139j-2 may define part of a peripheral wall of the passage 106j. The flavor pod 139j-1 may furthermore comprise one or more porous wicks 141j extending at least partially across the passage 106j (e.g., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106j), so as to be presented to a fluid flow therethrough. At least one end of each porous wick 141j extends into the flavor pod container 140j, so as to be submerged in the flavorant 132j. In this way, the flavorant 132j contained in the flavor pod container 140j is conveyed from the end or ends of the porous wick 141j extending into the flavor pod container 140j to a portion of the porous wick 141j located within the passage 106j, so as to be exposed to the airflow therein (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1566] Additionally, or alternatively, at least a part of a surface of the flavor pod 139j located adjacent to, or defining part of passage 106j may be flavorant-permeable as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 43.

[1567] Alternatively, the flavor pod 139j-3 may have a plurality of fluid passages or bores 106j-2 therethrough, at least part of the wall or barrier dividing each bore 106d from the flavorant container 140j being flavorant-permeable as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 44. As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, these arrangements of FIGS. 43 and 44 bear similarities with the arrangements of FIGS. 39 and 40. In such arrangements, flavorant 132j may permeate from the flavor pod 139j to the passage 106j for entrainment in the airflow therethrough (i.e., caused by a user inhaling).

[1568] The recess or receptacle 1000 in which flavored article 137j or flavor pod 139j is locatable may be provided within the main body 102j, the system 101j, or within the consumable 103j. The flavored article 137j or flavor pod 139j may be releasably attached to the consumable 103j, for example to the end of the consumable which is configured to engage with the main body 102j. Various means of attachment between the source of flavorant 132j and the consumable 103j may be possible, including, but not limited to, an interference fit, a snap fit comprising one or more raised bumps and corresponding recesses on the interfacial surface between the two components, or through physically coupling together by screwing one onto the other, through a bayonet fitting, through a latching mechanism, or through a clip or clasp. If the source of flavorant 130j is attached via a latching mechanism, this may further include a button by which the latch may be released. A clip or clasp may be fixed in position relative to the consumable 103j, or hingedly, rotatably, or slidably attached to the consumable 103j so as to be movable to allow the flavored article 137j or flavor pod 139j to be fitted and released.

[1569] The flavored article 137j or flavor pod 139j may alternatively be comprised within a flavor part 142j of the smoking substitute system 101j, in the manner illustrated schematically in FIGS. 45 and 46. Said flavor part 142j may be located between the consumable 103j and the main body 102j, such that each engages with an opposing end or side of the flavor part 142j, but not directly with each other. The flavor part 142j in such an embodiment may further comprise an electrical contact 112j-2 and connection therethrough, so that power may be conveyed from the contacts of the main body 102j to the contacts 112j of the consumable 103j, via the flavor part 142j. The interface between the consumable 103j and flavor part 142j may be configured to be the same as the interface between the flavor part 142j and main body 102j, such that the user is afforded the option of choosing to use the smoking substitute device 101j either with or without the flavor part 142j.

[1570] The flavored article 137j or flavor pod 139j may therefore be provided as a stand-alone consumable, independent of the consumable 103j comprising the aerosol generator. One or more flavored articles 137j or flavor pods 139j may be provided in a retail pack. Each flavored article 137j or flavor pod 139j within a pack may comprise the same flavorant 132j. Alternatively, the pack may comprise flavored articles 137j or flavor pods 139j containing different flavorants 132j, in order to provide a user with a selection of possible flavorants 132j.

[1571] In alternative embodiments, it is envisaged that the additional heater 130j may be provided within a consumable 103j-2, located along the fluid passage 106j-2 between fluid inlet 107j-2 and the aerosol generator of the consumable, as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 47. In such an embodiment, the source of flavorant 132j could be a flavorant reservoir 133j. In such a configuration, the main body 102j may not comprise a fluid inlet 107j-1, outlet 108j-1 or passage 106j-1.

[1572] Eleventh Mode: A Delivery of Flavor to a User by Olfactory Flavor Delivery

[1573] Aspects and embodiments of the eleventh mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the eleventh mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1574] FIGS. 48A and 48B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101k. The system 101k comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102k of the system 101k, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103k. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103k (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101k. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101k is a closed system.

[1575] As is apparent from FIGS. 48A and 48B, the consumable 103k is configured to engage the main body 102k. FIG. 48A shows the main body 102k and the consumable 103k in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 48B shows the main body 102k and the consumable 103k in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103k is received in a cavity of the main body 102k and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102k and consumable 103k may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1576] The system 101k is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104k. The e-liquid 104k comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104k is flavorless (i.e., it does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104k were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1577] As is more apparent from FIG. 48C, this e-liquid 104k is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105k that forms part of the consumable 103k. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103k is a “single-use” consumable 103k. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104k in the tank 105k, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103k. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1578] The tank 105k surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106k that extends between an inlet 107k and an outlet 108k at opposing ends of the consumable 103k. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103k that engages with the main body 102k, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103k that comprises a mouthpiece 109k of the system 101k. When the consumable 103k is engaged with the main body 102k, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109k so as to draw air through the passage 106k, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107k to the outlet 108k of the passage 106k. Although not illustrated, the passage 106k may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103k. The passage 106k is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103k and the main body 102k (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101k is drawn into the passage 106k (during an inhale).

[1579] The smoking substitute system 101k is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104k for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103k comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110k and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111k that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110k. The porous wick 110k extends across the passage 106k (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106k) and opposing ends of the wick 110k extend into the tank 105k (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104k). In this way, e-liquid 104k contained in the tank 105k is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110k to a central portion of the porous wick 110k so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106k (i.e., caused by a user inhaling). In other embodiments the heating filament 111k and/or wick 110k may form part of the main body (but may engage the tank 105k during engagement of the main body 102k and the consumable 103k).

[1580] The helical filament 111k is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110k and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112k mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102k (when engaged). When the consumable 103k is engaged with the main body 102k, the electrical contacts 112k contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102k. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102k, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111k is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102k to the filament 111k in order to heat the filament 111k. This heat is transferred from the filament 111k to the porous wick 110k which causes e-liquid 104k conveyed by the porous wick 110k to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111k and the outlet 108k of the passage 106k, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109k, by a user of the system 101k.

[1581] The power source of the main body 102k may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1582] The main body 102k may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102k may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111k). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111k. In this way, the filament 111k may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102k may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1583] Although not shown, the main body 102k and consumable 103k may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103k engaged with the main body 102k. In this respect, the consumable 103k may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1584] FIG. 49 illustrates a consumable 103k for a smoking substitute device such as the electronic cigarette system shown in FIGS. 48A-C. The consumable 103k has an outer casing 1002 in which the tank 105k containing the e-liquid 104k is disposed. The passage 106k is disposed through the outer casing 1002.

[1585] A flavor delivery apparatus 1004 is positioned in the outer casing 1002. The flavor delivery apparatus 1004 is a compressible pocket. The compressible pocket 1004 is molded integrally as part of the outer casing 1002 so that at least part of the pocket extends outwardly from an outer surface of the outer casing 1002. In FIG. 49, a portion of the pocket is positioned inside the outer casing 1002 of the consumable 103k, and another portion of the pocket is positioned to extend away and outwardly from the outer casing 1002 in an uncompressed state.

[1586] The compressible pocket 1004 is distinct and separate from the tank 105k containing the e-liquid, and the passage 106k through the consumable 103k. The compressible pocket is thus fluidly isolated from the tank 105k and the passage 106k. Specifically, the flow path of the air from the inlet 107k to the outlet 108k of the passage 106k is thus separate and distinct from the pocket 1004 so that the flow of air through the tank 105k does not come into contact with the compressible pocket 1004 or the contents thereof.

[1587] The compressible pocket 1004 has an internal volume defining a reservoir which contains a fragranced liquid 1006. The fragranced liquid 1006 is configured to release a fragrance, smell or odor, and may be oil-based and/or sugar-based. The compressible pocket may also contain air.

[1588] The pocket 1004 has an outlet mister having a plurality of slits and/or holes. The outlet mister is formed from a silicon valve. The outlet mister is configured to form a mist of fragranced liquid 1006 as the fragranced liquid is urged therethrough, the resulting mist thus being released from the pocket 1004 into the surrounding ambient air (as shown using the dashed arrow 1010 in FIG. 50). The pocket 1004 also has a one-way valve inlet which allows surrounding ambient air into the pocket 1004, but prevents air escaping from the pocket 1004.

[1589] In FIG. 50, the outlet mister is integral with the valve inlet, such that they form a single combined valve 1008.

[1590] During compression of the pocket 1004 from an uncompressed state (as shown in FIGS. 49 and 50) to a compressed state, the single combined valve 1008 acts as the outlet mister. After the compression of the pocket 1004, the single combined valve 1008 acts as a one-way valve outlet which allows surrounding air into the pocket 1004, but prevents air in the pocket 1004 from escaping from the pocket. Thus, the pocket 1004 can return from the compressed state to the uncompressed state after each compression of the pocket 1004.

[1591] A user of the electronic cigarette device can actuate the release of flavor from the pocket 1004 by compressing, or pushing, the outwardly directed portion of the pocket 1004 towards the outer casing 1002 of the consumable. In other words, the user compresses the pocket 1004 from the uncompressed state to the compressed state. The movement of the pocket 1004 from the uncompressed state to the compressed state acts to blow a combination of air and fragranced liquid 1006 in the pocket 1004 through the single combined valve 1008. During compression, the single combined valve 1008 acts as an outlet mister and creates a fine mist of droplets of the fragranced liquid 1006 (hereinafter a fragranced vapor mist) which passes out of the single combined valve 1008 and into the surrounding ambient air. The fragranced vapor mist can then travel towards a user's nose for olfactory flavor delivery.

[1592] After compression of the pocket 1004, and when the user has stopped compressing the pocket 1004, the single combined valve 1008 acts as a one-way valve, allowing surrounding outside air into the pocket through the single combined valve 1008, but preventing air already inside the pocket 1004 from escaping from the pocket 1004. As the single combined valve 1008 acts as a one-way valve after compression of the pocket 1004, the pocket 1004 returns from the compressed state to the uncompressed state. The pocket 1004 can then be compressed again by a user to repeatedly release fragranced vapor mist.

[1593] In an alternative embodiment, the one-way valve may be separate from the outlet mister.

[1594] The pocket 1004 is positioned on an outside of the outer casing 1002 of the consumable, such that a user can easily access the pocket 1004 for compression with, for example, a finger in order to actuate flavor delivery.

[1595] The outlet mister (which in the embodiment shown in FIG. 50 is the single combined valve 1008) is positioned on the pocket 1004 near an upper end of the pocket 1004 adjacent to the mouthpiece 109k of the consumable 103k. Therefore, in use (i.e., during vaping), the outlet mister is positioned underneath and/or adjacent to the nose of the user for olfactory flavor delivery.

[1596] In some embodiments, it is envisaged that the flavor delivery article may be detachable from the outer casing 1002. For example, the flavor delivery article may be releasably clipped onto the outer casing 1002 of the consumable 103k in order to permit convenient replacement and/or change the flavor delivery article. Therefore, a user can change the type of flavor (e.g., from a fruit flavor to a spiced flavor, for example), or can replace an empty flavor delivery article, in which all the fragranced liquid has been used. Alternatively, the flavor delivery article may be integral with or otherwise permanently attached to the outer casing 1002, such that the flavor of the consumable may only be changed and/or the flavor delivery article replaced along with the replaceable consumable 103k.

[1597] Alternatively, and/or additionally, the flavor delivery article may be refillable with fragranced liquid such that the flavor delivery article is reusable.

[1598] In an alternative embodiment, the pocket is not attached to the consumable 103k, but is instead attached to the main body 102k of the smoking substitute device.

[1599] Twelfth Mode: A Flavor Delivery Article for a Smoking Substitute Device

[1600] Aspects and embodiments of the twelfth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the twelfth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1601] FIGS. 51A and 51B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101m. The system 101m comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102m of the system 101m, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103m. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103m (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101m. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101m is a closed system.

[1602] As is apparent from FIGS. 51A and 51B, the consumable 103m is configured to engage the main body 102m. FIG. 51A shows the main body 102m and the consumable 103m in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 51B shows the main body 102m and the consumable 103m in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103m is received in a cavity of the main body 102m and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102m and consumable 103m may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1603] The system 101m is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104m. The e-liquid 104m comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104m is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104m were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1604] As is more apparent from FIG. 51C, this e-liquid 104m is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105m that forms part of the consumable 103m. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103m is a “single-use” consumable 103m. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104m in the tank 105m, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103m. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1605] The tank 105m surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106m that extends between an inlet 107m and an outlet 108m at opposing ends of the consumable 103m. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103m that engages with the main body 102m, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103m that comprises a mouthpiece 109m of the system 101m. When the consumable 103m is engaged with the main body 102m, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109m so as to draw air through the passage 106m, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107m to the outlet 108m of the passage 106m. Although not illustrated, the passage 106m may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103m. The passage 106m is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103m and the main body 102m (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101m is drawn into the passage 106m (during an inhale).

[1606] The smoking substitute system 101m is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104m for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103m comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110m and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111m that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110m. The porous wick 110m extends across the passage 106m (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106m) and opposing ends of the wick 110m extend into the tank 105m (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104m). In this way, e-liquid 104m contained in the tank 105m is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110m to a central portion of the porous wick 110m so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106m (i.e., caused by a user inhaling). In other embodiments the heating filament 111m and/or wick 110m may form part of the main body (but may engage the tank 105m during engagement of the main body 102m and the consumable 103m).

[1607] The helical filament 111m is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110m and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112m mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102m (when engaged). When the consumable 103m is engaged with the main body 102m, the electrical contacts 112m contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102m. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102m, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111m is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102m to the filament 111m in order to heat the filament 111m. This heat is transferred from the filament 111m to the porous wick 110m which causes e-liquid 104m conveyed by the porous wick 110m to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111m and the outlet 108m of the passage 106m, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109m, by a user of the system 101m.

[1608] The power source of the main body 102m may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1609] The main body 102m may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102m may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111m). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111m. In this way, the filament 111m may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102m may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1610] Although not shown, the main body 102m and consumable 103m may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103m engaged with the main body 102m. In this respect, the consumable 103m may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1611] FIG. 52 illustrates a smoking substitute device 101m-2 similar to that shown in FIGS. 51A-51C. However, smoking substitute device 101m-2 additionally comprises a flavor delivery article 250m for delivering flavor to a user during vaping. The flavor delivery article 250m is attached to an outer surface of the main body 102m of the smoking substitute device 101m-2. The flavor delivery article 250m sits in a recess formed in the main body 102m, and extends away from the main body 102m. In an alternative embodiment, the flavor delivery article 250m is flush with the outer surface of the main body 102m so that it does not extend away from the main body 102m.

[1612] Similarly, to the smoking substitute system as described in FIGS. 51A-51C, one end of the consumable 103m of smoking substitute device 101m-2 defines a mouthpiece 109m for delivering vaporized e-liquid 104m to a user during vaping. The flavor delivery article 250m is positioned such that during vaping, the flavor delivery article 250m is adjacent to, or proximate to, the nose of the user. In other words, the flavor delivery article 250m is positioned on the top side of the smoking substitute device 101m-2 to sit close to the nose of a user. Accordingly, when a user inhales during vaping, vaporized e-liquid 104m containing nicotine is inhaled via the user's mouth, and flavor is inhaled via the user's nose by olfactory flavor delivery.

[1613] The flavor delivery article 250m is attachable to and detachable from the main body 102m by a clip (although other means of reversible attachment of the flavor delivery article to the main body may be used). In an alternative embodiment, the flavor delivery article 250m may be attachable to the consumable 103m instead of the main body 102m.

[1614] As shown in FIG. 53, the flavor delivery article 250m comprises a piezoelectric motor 252m and a pad of absorbable material 254m. A fragranced liquid (i.e., a scented liquid) is absorbed into the pad 254m. The piezoelectric motor 252m is positioned adjacent to the pad 254m. Specifically, a resonating surface 258m of the piezoelectric motor 252m is positioned adjacent to and in contact with the pad 254m containing the absorbed fragranced liquid.

[1615] Although not shown in FIG. 53, both the piezoelectric motor 252m and filament 111m are connectable to a power source of the main body 102m. As described above with reference to FIG. 51C, main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to the power source of the main body 102m, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111m is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102m to the filament 111m in order to heat the filament 111m and vaporize the e-liquid 104m for inhalation by a user. Similarly, the main body electrical contact also electrically connects the piezoelectric motor 252m to the power source of the main body 102m (in the engaged position) so that power can be supplied from the main body 102m to the piezoelectric motor 252m.

[1616] A controller (not shown) in the main body 102m controls the supply of power from the power source to the filament 111m and the piezoelectric motor 252m. The controller is configured to control a voltage across the filament 111m and across the piezoelectric motor 252m.

[1617] If the controller instructs the supply of power to the piezoelectric motor 252m, a high frequency signal is supplied to the piezoelectric motor 252m. A piezoelectric element formed from a piezoelectric material in the piezoelectric motor 252m converts this signal to vibrationary motion at the same high frequency and vibrates the resonating surface 258m at this same high frequency. As the resonating surface 258m is positioned adjacent to, and touching, the pad 254m containing the absorbed fragranced liquid, the resonating surface 258m vibrates at the same high frequency against the pad 254m. The force on the pad 254m resulting from the high-frequency oscillation of the resonating surface 258m against the pad 254m, leads to agitation of the fragranced liquid absorbed within the pad 254m. This excitement of the fragranced liquid results in the formation of fine droplets of fragranced liquid which are released from the pad 254m as a mist.

[1618] As shown by the arrows from the pad 254m in FIG. 53, the mist of fragranced liquid travels towards the nose of the user (during vaping, when the user has the mouthpiece 109m in their mouth). Accordingly, e-liquid aerosol enters the mouth of the user through the mouthpiece 109m for the delivery of nicotine, and the mist of fragranced liquid enters the nose of the user for the delivery of flavor.

[1619] The controller controls the supply of power from the power source to the piezoelectric motor 252m. A user can directly control the supply of power by a dial 256m on the main body 103m. Movement of the dial 256m results in the controller either increasing or decreasing the amount of power, or the frequency of the signal, supplied to the piezoelectric motor 252m. Accordingly, the amplitude and/or frequency of vibration of the resonating surface 258m of the piezoelectric motor 252m can be altered, and the amount of fragranced liquid released from the pad 254m can be altered. The user can therefore control the intensity and/or strength of flavor received from the flavor delivery article 250m.

[1620] In an alternative embodiment, a user may be able to control the supply of power to the piezoelectric motor 252m by a button, slider or other means.

[1621] The controller may also control the supply of power to the piezoelectric motor 252m on the basis of whether or not a user is puffing on the smoking substitute device 101m-2. The main body 102m includes a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation) on the smoking substitute device 101m-2. The puff sensor is operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor. The controller also controls power supply to the piezoelectric motor 252m in response to a puff detection by the puff sensor. Specifically, the controller may only supply power to the piezoelectric motor 252m in response to a puff detection signal indicating a user puff, such that flavor is only released when a user is taking a puff (i.e., sucking on) the smoking substitute device.

[1622] In this way, the flavor delivery article 250m is only activated to release flavor when a user is taking a puff (i.e., inhaling through) the smoking substitute device 101m-2.

[1623] In alternative embodiments, the flavor delivery article 250m may comprise a pocket containing the fragranced fluid, or a crystalized membrane, instead of the absorbable pad 254m. The dial 256m for controlling the power supplied to the piezoelectric motor 252m may be formed on the flavor delivery article 250m, consumable 103m or the main body 102m.

[1624] In a further alternative embodiment, the flavor delivery article 250m may be integral with the main body 102m or the consumable 103m, such that the flavor delivery article 250m is not detachable from the main body 102m or consumable 103m.

[1625] Thirteenth Mode: A Smoking Substitute Apparatus Capable of Delivering Flavor to a User

[1626] Aspects and embodiments of the thirteenth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the thirteenth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1627] FIGS. 54A and 54B illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101n. The system 101n comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102n of the system 101n, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103n. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103n (smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101n. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101n is a closed system.

[1628] As is apparent from FIGS. 54A and 54B, the consumable 103n is configured to engage the main body 102n. FIG. 54A shows the main body 102n and the consumable 103n in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 54B shows the main body 102n and the consumable 103n in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103n is received in a cavity of the main body 102n and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102n and consumable 103n may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1629] The system 101n is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104n. The e-liquid 104n comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104n is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104n were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1630] As is more apparent from FIG. 54C, this e-liquid 104n is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 105n that forms part of the consumable 103n. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103n is a “single-use” consumable 103n. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104n in the tank 105n, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103n. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer). The tank 105n surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106n that extends between an inlet 107n and an outlet 108n at opposing ends of the consumable 103n. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103n that engages with the main body 102n, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103n that comprises a mouthpiece 109n of the system 101n. When the consumable 103n is engaged with the main body 102n, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109n so as to draw air through the passage 106n, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107n to the outlet 108n of the passage 106n. Although not illustrated, the passage 106n may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 103n. The passage 106n is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103n and the main body 102n (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101n is drawn into the passage 106n (during an inhale).

[1631] The smoking substitute system 101n is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104n for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the consumable 103n comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110n and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111n that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110n. The porous wick 110n extends across the passage 106n (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106n) and opposing ends of the wick 110n extend into the tank 105n (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104n). In this way, e-liquid 104n contained in the tank 105n is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110n to a central portion of the porous wick 110n so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106n (i.e., caused by a user inhaling). In other embodiments the heating filament 111n and/or wick 110n may form part of the main body (but may engage the tank 105n during engagement of the main body 102n and the consumable 103n).

[1632] The helical filament 111n is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110n and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112n mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102n (when engaged). When the consumable 103n is engaged with the main body 102n, the electrical contacts 112n contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102n. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102n, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111n is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102n to the filament 111n in order to heat the filament 111n. This heat is transferred from the filament 111n to the porous wick 110n which causes e-liquid 104n conveyed by the porous wick 110n to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111n and the outlet 108n of the passage 106n, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109n, by a user of the system 101n.

[1633] The power source of the main body 102n may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1634] The main body 102n may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102n may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111n). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111n. In this way, the filament 111n may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102n may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1635] Although not shown, the main body 102n and consumable 103n may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103n engaged with the main body 102n. In this respect, the consumable 103n may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1636] FIG. 55 illustrates a smoking substitute apparatus which is similar to the smoking substitute apparatus of FIGS. 54A-54C, but additionally includes a flavor cavity 1020. The flavor cavity 1020 has a reservoir formed therein which contains a powdered flavorant 1022. The smoking substitute apparatus is thus a hybrid pod which has both a tank 105n containing e-liquid 104n and a flavor cavity 1020 containing a flavored powder 1022.

[1637] Similarly, to in FIGS. 54A-54C, a first flow passage 106n extends between a first flow passage inlet 107n and a first flow passage outlet 108n. The first flow passage outlet 108n is formed in the mouthpiece 109n of the consumable 103n. The first flow passage 106n guides aerosol vapor of the e-liquid 104n from the tank 105n to the first flow passage outlet 108n in the mouthpiece 109n, for inhalation by a user.

[1638] As shown in FIG. 55, a second flow passage 1024 extends between a second flow passage inlet 1026 and a second flow passage outlet 1028. The second flow passage 1024 may be formed by one or more hollow tubes extending through the interior of the consumable 103n. The second flow passage outlet 1028 is formed in the mouthpiece 109n, and the flavor cavity 1020 containing the flavored powder 1022 is formed in a portion of the second flow passage 1024. Thus, the second flow passage 1024 acts to guide ambient air from an outside of the consumable 103n through the second flow passage inlet 1026 and the flavor cavity 1020, to the second flow passage outlet 1028.

[1639] The flow of ambient air through the second flow passage 1024 is shown in FIG. 56 by a dashed arrow. When a user of the smoking substitute system draws on the mouthpiece 109n, ambient air is sucked through the second flow passage 1024, and thus through the flavor cavity 1020. The flavored powder 1022 is entrained in the flow of ambient air through the second flow cavity 1024 and is therefore carried through the second flow passage outlet 1028 by the flow of air and into the mouth of the user for inhalation.

[1640] The first flow passage 106n and second flow passage 1024 are fluidly isolated from one another along their entire length to avoid e-liquid 104n mixing with the powder 1022. Thus, the second flow passage 1024 is isolated from the tank 105n and the heating element.

[1641] The second flow passage 1024 may be adjustable (i.e., tunable) to alter the amount of powder entrained in the air flow into the mouth of a user. The size and/or shape of the second flow passage air inlet 1026 or second flow passage air outlet 1028 may be adjustable to change the amount of powder entrained through the second flow passage per use (i.e., per puff) of the smoking substitute system. A user may be able to control the size or shape of the second flow passage inlet 1026 or outlet 1028 by the use of a button, or slider. The button or slider may act to partially close the second flow passage inlet 1026 or outlet 1028.

[1642] Alternatively (or additionally), the first flow passage 106n may be adjustable to change the relative amount of powder 1022 and aerosol vapor delivered to the mouth of a user through the mouthpiece 109n.

[1643] Although not shown in the figures, there may be a flow passage obstructer extendable across the second flow passage 1024. The flow passage obstructer may be formed as a flap, cap, lid or a sliding obstructer, and may be operable to partially, and/or completely block the second flow passage 1024 so that ambient air cannot flow through the second flow passage 1024. The second flow passage obstructer may be formed over the second flow passage inlet 1026 as a cap or plug, or may be formed elsewhere in the second flow passage 1024.

[1644] In other embodiments, the second flow passage 1024 may be non-linear and/or tortuous, and follow a winding, meandering path. The second flow passage 1024 may spiral around the first flow passage 106n.

[1645] In FIGS. 55 and 56, the second flow passage air inlet 1026 is formed in an outer side wall of the consumable 103n. However, other configurations may be possible. For example, the first flow passage inlet 107n may be formed together with the second flow passage inlet 1026 to form a combined flow inlet upstream of the tank 105n and the heating element. Air may travel through the combined flow inlet into a combined flow passage which branches into the first flow passage 106n and second flow passage 1024 upstream of the heating element and tank 105n. The flow of ambient air entering the consumable 103n may be split into two passages; the first guiding vaporized e-liquid 104n to the mouthpiece 109n, and the second guiding powdered flavorant 1022 to the mouthpiece 109n. Similarly, to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 55 and 3, the flavored powder 1022 does not mix or come into contact with the e-liquid 104n.

[1646] Fourteenth Mode: A Mouthpiece for a Smoking Substitute Apparatus Having One or More Electrode

[1647] Aspects and embodiments of the fourteenth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the fourteenth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1648] FIGS. 57A and 57B illustrate a smoking substitute apparatus 101p in the form of an e-cigarette. The apparatus 101p comprises an e-cigarette device defining a main body 102p of the apparatus 101p, and a cartridge 103p in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”). In the illustrated embodiment the cartridge 103p (or aerosol delivery device) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the apparatus 101p. In other words, the e-cigarette 101p is a “closed system” smoking substitute apparatus. An expanded schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge is shown in FIG. 57C.

[1649] As is apparent from FIGS. 57A and 57B, the cartridge 103p is configured to engage the main body 102p. FIG. 57A shows the main body 102p and the cartridge 103p in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 57B shows the main body 102p and the cartridge 103p in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the cartridge 103p is received in a cavity of the main body 102p and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102p and cartridge 103p may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1650] The apparatus 101p is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former, which in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104p. The e-liquid 104p comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104p is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104p were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste.

[1651] As is more apparent from FIG. 57C, this e-liquid 104p is stored within a reservoir (receptacle) in the form of a tank 105p that forms part of the cartridge 103p. In the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge 103p is a “single-use” cartridge 103p. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104p in the tank 105p, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire cartridge 103p. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1652] The tank 105p surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 106p that extends between an inlet 107p and an outlet 108p at opposing ends of the cartridge 103p. In this respect, the passage comprises an upstream end at the end of the cartridge 103p that engages with the main body 102p, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the cartridge 103p that comprises a mouthpiece 109p of the apparatus 101p. When the cartridge 103p is engaged with the main body 102p, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109p so as to draw air through the passage 106p, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107p to the outlet 108p of the passage 106p. Although not illustrated, the passage 106p may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the cartridge 103p. The passage 106p is in fluid communication with a gap defined between the cartridge 103p and the main body 102p (when engaged) such that air outside of the system 101p is drawn into the passage 106p (during an inhale).

[1653] The smoking substitute apparatus 101p is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104p for inhalation by a user. To provide this, the cartridge 103p comprises a heater having of a porous wick 110p and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111p that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110p. The porous wick 110p extends across the passage 106p (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106p) and opposing ends of the wick 110p extend into the tank 105p (so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104p). In this way, e-liquid 104p contained in the tank 105p is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110p to a central portion of the porous wick 110p so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106p (i.e., caused by a user inhaling). In other embodiments the heating filament 111p and/or wick 110p may form part of the main body (but may engage the tank 105p during engagement of the main body 102p and the cartridge 103p).

[1654] The helical filament 111p is wound about this exposed central portion of the porous wick 110p and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112p mounted at the end of the cartridge that is proximate the main body 102p (when engaged). When the cartridge 103p is engaged with the main body 102p, the electrical contacts 112p contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102p. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102p, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 111p is electrically connected to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102p to the filament 111p in order to heat the filament 111p. This heat is transferred from the filament 111p to the porous wick 110p which causes e-liquid 104p conveyed by the porous wick 110p to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111p and the outlet 108p of the passage 106p, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109p, by a user of the system 101p.

[1655] The power source of the main body 102p may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1656] The main body 102p may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 102p also comprises a controller (not shown) that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111p). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111p. In this way, the filament 111p may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102p may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1657] Although not shown, the main body 102p and cartridge 103p may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a cartridge 103p engaged with the main body 102p. In this respect, the cartridge 103p may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1658] The controller may further comprise a communication interface for communicating with an external device. For example, the controller may include a wireless interface for wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) or a wired interface for wired communication (e.g., USB).

[1659] The mouthpiece 109p of the cartridge 103p includes a pair of electrodes 120,122 for stimulating a user's tongue to simulate flavor delivery. The electrodes 1030, 1032 are arranged on either side of the outlet 108p in the mouthpiece 109p. The electrodes 1030, 1032 are exposed on an outer surface of the mouthpiece. Each of the electrodes 1030, 1032 includes a first portion disposed on a forward-facing surface 1034 of the mouthpiece 109p, and a second portion disposed on a later-facing surface 1036 of the mouthpiece 109p. Such a layout of the electrodes 1030, 1032 may serve to increase a contact area between the electrodes 1030, 1032 and the user's tongue, to improve quality of flavor simulation.

[1660] The pair of electrodes 1030, 1032 is arranged to electrically stimulate the user's tongue by passing a current through a portion of the user's tongue located between the pair of electrodes 1030, 1032. The electrodes 1030, 1032 are connected to respective electrical contacts 1038 disposed on a side of the cartridge 103p. The electrodes 1030, 1032 are connected to the electrical contacts 1038 via wires 1040 which extend through a portion of the cartridge 103p. When the cartridge 103p is engaged with the main body 102p, the electrical contacts 1038 contact corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102p. The corresponding electrical contacts of the main body 102p are connected to the controller in the main body 102p. In this manner, when the cartridge 103p is engaged with the main body 102p, a stimulation signal generated by the controller may be transmitted to the electrodes 1030, 1032 to stimulate the user's tongue.

[1661] The controller is configured to generate and control a stimulation signal that is transmitted to the electrodes 1030, 1032 when the cartridge 103p is engaged with the main body 102p. In this embodiment, the stimulation signal generated by the controller is an electrical current which is to be passed through the user's tongue via the electrodes 1030, 1032 to stimulate the user's tongue. The controller may, for example, generate and control the stimulation signal by controlling a voltage applied across the electrodes by the power supply in the main body. The controller may control (e.g., adjust) the stimulation signal to simulate a desired flavor.

[1662] As an example, the stimulation signal may include current pulses which are delivered to the user's tongue via the pair of electrodes 1030, 1032. The controller may adjust parameters of the current pulses including magnitude of the current pulses, pulse duration, and pulse frequency to simulate a desired flavor, as a simulated flavor perceived by the user may depend on these parameters.

[1663] Example currents that may be passed through the user's tongue to simulate flavor may include currents having a magnitude between 10 μA and 500 μA (preferably between 20 μA and 200 μA), and pulse frequencies between 50 Hz and 1200 Hz. The current pulses may, for example, be square wave pulses.

[1664] The pulses may be generated using pulse-width modulation techniques.

[1665] Of course, these parameters may be adapted to a given user's physiology and sensitivity to electrical stimulation via the electrodes.

[1666] The controller may be configured to generate and transmit a stimulation signal to the electrodes 1030, 1032 when the puff sensor detects that the user is using the smoking substitute apparatus 101p. In this manner, when a user puffs on the apparatus 101p, the controller may simultaneously activate the heater (filament 111p) to generate an aerosol from the e-liquid 104p, and transmit a simulation signal to the electrodes 1030, 1032 to simulate a flavor for the user. Thus, the user may experience simulated flavor delivery via the electrodes 1030, 1032 whilst they puff on the apparatus 101p.

[1667] In the example shown, the electrodes 1030, 1032 are arranged to electrically stimulate the user's tongue. In other examples, one or both of the electrodes 120,122 may be arranged to thermally stimulate the user's tongue (in addition or alternatively to electrical stimulation). For example, a temperature actuator (e.g., heater or Peltier module) may be provided in the mouthpiece 109p and thermally coupled to one of the electrodes, to cause a temperature change (e.g., temperature increase or decrease) of the electrode. The controller may be configured to transmit a stimulation signal (e.g., an electrical current or voltage) to the thermal actuator, to vary the temperature of the thermal actuator and hence thermally stimulate the user's tongue via the electrode.

[1668] Thermally stimulating the user's tongue may involve varying the temperature of one or both of the electrodes 1030, 1032 between 20° C. and 35° C.

[1669] FIG. 58 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a vaporless smoking substitute apparatus 101p-1 that is another embodiment of the disclosure. The apparatus 101p-1 includes many components which correspond to those described above in relation to apparatus 101p. Components of apparatus 101p-1 which correspond to those already described in relation to apparatus 101p are given the same reference numeral as in FIGS. 57A-57C and are not described again.

[1670] As can be seen in FIG. 58, apparatus 101p-1 includes a battery 1042 (e.g., rechargeable battery) and a controller 1044 connected to the battery 1042, both of which are located in its main body 102p.

[1671] Instead of an e-liquid, the cartridge 103p of apparatus 101p-1 includes a porous substrate 1046 that is imbued with nicotine liquid. The porous substrate 1046 may be any suitable porous material, e.g., a cloth, mesh, sponge or the like. The porous substrate 1046 is disposed in a receptacle 1048 of the cartridge 103p. The porous substrate 1046 is located so that it is disposed within the passage 106p in the cartridge 103p.

[1672] A mesh heater 1048 is disposed in the body 102p of the apparatus 101p-1 and electrically connected to the controller 1044 so that the controller can control power delivered to the mesh heater 1048. The mesh heater 1048 may be made of a resistive mesh material that generates heat when a current is passed through it.

[1673] The mesh heater 1048 is disposed upstream of an inlet of the passage 106p in the cartridge 103p. When a user puffs on the mouthpiece 109p of apparatus 101p-1, ambient air may be drawn into the apparatus 101p-1 via an air inlet (not shown) formed in a side of the main body 102p. The ambient air may then be drawn through the mesh heater 1048 (as illustrated by arrow 1050-1) so that it is heated. The heated air is then entrained into the passage 106p in the cartridge 103p and through the porous substrate 1046 (arrow 1050-2). As the heated air passes through the porous substrate 1046, it may pick up nicotine particles from the porous substrate 1046 to for a mixture of heated air and nicotine particles (aerosol). The aerosol comprising the nicotine particles may then be inhaled by the user through the outlet 108p in the mouthpiece 109p (arrow 1050-3). In this manner, apparatus 101p-1 may produce a vaporless aerosol comprising heated air and nicotine particles. In this manner, a user of the apparatus 101p-1 may not emit a cloud of vapor following an inhalation of aerosol from the apparatus 101p-1.

[1674] The apparatus 101p-1 includes a first one-way valve 1052-1 located at an inlet of the passage 106p in the cartridge, and a second one-way valve 1052-2 located in the passage 106p downstream of the porous substrate 1046. The first and second one-way valves 1052-1, 1052-2 are arranged to only allow air flow in one direction, from the mesh heater 1048 towards the outlet 108p of the mouthpiece 109p. This may prevent aerosol from being blown back into the mesh heater 1048, which could cause deterioration of the mesh heater 1048 over time. A seal 1054 is also provided at a lower end of the cartridge 103p, around the inlet of the passage 106p, to prevent leakage at an interface between the cartridge 103p and the main body 102p.

[1675] The electrodes 1030, 1032 of apparatus 101p-1 are configured in a similar way to those of apparatus 101p. In particular, they are connected to the controller 1044 via wires 1040, so that a stimulation signal may be transmitted to the electrodes 1030, 1032 to stimulate the user's tongue. As can be seen in FIG. 58, different electrical connections are used for connecting the electrodes 1030, 1032 and the mesh heater 1048 to the controller 1044. This may avoid interference between signals generated by the controller to control the electrodes 1030, 1032 and the mesh heater 1048.

[1676] Similar to the discussion above in relation to apparatus 101p, the controller may be configured to a) generate a stimulation signal for stimulating the user's tongue in response to a detection that the user is puffing on the mouthpiece 109p, and b) control the mesh heater 1048 to heat ambient air drawn into the apparatus 101p-1 to generate an aerosol. Puff detection may be performed via a puff detector (not shown) that is connected to the controller. In this manner, flavor delivery may be simulated when the user inhales an aerosol from the apparatus 101p-1. As the aerosol is vaporless and substantially odorless, the apparatus 101p-1 may provide an “invisible” experience, as it may not produce any perceptible vapors or odors.

[1677] The cartridge 103p may be removable from the main body 102p of apparatus 101p-1, so as to be a replaceable component of the apparatus 101p-1. In this case, a connector (not shown) may be provided in the cartridge 103p for connecting the wires 1040 to the controller 1044. In some cases, the porous substrate 1046 may be removable from the cartridge 103p, so that it can be replaced without having to replace the whole cartridge.

[1678] In some embodiments (not shown) the electrodes 1030, 1032 of apparatus 101p and/or apparatus 101p-1 may be provided as part of a removable cap that is mountable over the mouthpiece 109p. In this manner, the rest of the cartridge 103p may be replaced without having to replace the electrodes 1030, 1032. This may reduce the cost of the cartridge 103p, where the cartridge is intended as a consumable component.

[1679] FIG. 59 is a diagram illustrating a smoking substitute system 101p-2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The smoking substitute system 101p-2 includes a smoking substitute apparatus 102p-2 and a mobile device 1058. The smoking substitute apparatus 102p-2 may, for example, be apparatus 101p or apparatus 101p-1 described above. The smoking substitute apparatus 102p-2 is communicatively coupled to the mobile device 1058 (as illustrated by arrow 1056), so that data may be exchanged between the apparatus 102p-2 and the mobile device. In particular, a controller in the apparatus 102p-2 may be communicatively coupled to the mobile device 1058. Preferably, they may be communicatively coupled via a Bluetooth connection or other near-field communication method. In the example shown, the mobile device 1058 is a smartphone, however other types of mobile device may be used (e.g., tablet computer, laptop, etc.).

[1680] The mobile device 1058 includes software installed thereon for controlling a stimulation signal generated by the controller of apparatus 102p-2 for stimulating a user's tongue via electrodes on a mouthpiece of the apparatus 102p-2 (e.g., electrodes 1030, 1032). The mobile device 1058 may transmit a control signal to the controller of apparatus 102p-2 for controlling the stimulation signal. The controller may then generate and/or control a stimulation signal provided to the electrodes based on the received control signal. The control signal may include an indication of parameters which are to be used for the stimulation signal. In this manner, parameters of the stimulation signal may be controlled by the mobile device 1058 to control flavor simulation by the apparatus 102p-2.

[1681] The mobile device 1058 includes software installed thereon for generating a user interface 1060 to enable a user to select a flavor to be simulated by the apparatus 102p-2. In the example shown, the user interface is arranged to present a user with multiple selectable flavor options 1062. In the example shown, the user interface 1060 includes selectable flavor options A, B, C, D and E. When the user selects one of the displayed options, the mobile device transmits a control signal to the mobile device 1058, the control signal including instructions for simulating the selected flavor. In this manner, a user may easily select and control a flavor simulated by the apparatus via the electrodes on the mouthpiece of the apparatus 102p-2.

[1682] The mobile device 1058 may include a memory which stores a set of flavors and, for each of the flavors, corresponding parameters for the stimulation signal to simulate that flavor. Thus, when a flavor is selected, the mobile device 1058 may transmit a control signal including an indication of the parameters for the stimulation signal to simulate that flavor to the controller of the apparatus 102p-2. The controller may then generate and control the stimulation signal for the electrodes based on the parameters received from the mobile device 1058.

[1683] The mobile device 1058 may be configured to perform a calibration procedure, in order to more accurately simulate flavor for a particular user. The calibration may involve transmission of a test control signal by the mobile device 1058 to the controller of the apparatus 102p-2. The controller may then generate a stimulation signal based on the received test control signal to stimulate the user's tongue. The mobile device may present to the user a user interface including a series of selectable options corresponding to possible flavors perceived by the user as a result of the stimulation. The user may then indicate, via the user interface, which flavor they perceived. The mobile device 1058 may record the user's response.

[1684] The mobile device 1058 may be configured to repeat this procedure for multiple different control signals, in order to map out the user's response to different stimulation signals. In this manner, it may be possible to identify which stimulation signals result in which flavors perceived by the user. This information may then be used by the mobile device 1058 to simulate particular flavors for that user. This may enable more accurate flavor simulation for that user.

[1685] In some cases, the mobile device 1058 may be configured to adjust the control signal transmitted to the controller of the apparatus based on the indication received from the user. In this manner, the control signal may be adjusted until the user indicates that they perceive a particular flavor. This may enable the flavor simulation to be fine-tuned to the user's sense of taste.

[1686] The mobile device 1058 may be connected to a cloud server (not shown), so that user data relating to taste profiles and calibration data may be stored in the cloud. The mobile device 1058 may also access a “flavor library” stored in the cloud, which includes information on how to simulate various flavors (e.g., parameters of the stimulation signal for simulating the various flavors). In this manner, the user may have access to a wide range of flavors stored in the cloud.

[1687] Fifteenth Mode: Presenting a Source of Flavorant to Fluid Flow Through a Smoking Substitute Device

[1688] Aspects and embodiments of the fifteenth mode of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments of the fifteenth mode will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[1689] FIGS. 60 and 61 illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 101q. The system 101q comprises an e-cigarette device defining a reusable main body 102q of the system 101q, and a smoking substitute device in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 103q, which may also be referred to as a precursor part. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 103q (smoking substitute device) is removable from the main body (e-cigarette device), so as to be a replaceable component of the system 101q. In other words, the e-cigarette system 101q is a closed system.

[1690] As is apparent from FIGS. 60 and 61, the consumable 103q is configured to engage the main body 102q. FIG. 60 shows the main body 102q and the consumable 103q in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 61 shows the main body 102q and the consumable 103q in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 103q is received in a cavity of the main body 102q and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 102q and consumable 103q may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit.

[1691] The system 101q is configured to vaporize an aerosol-former or aerosol precursor, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 104q. The e-liquid 104q comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 104q is flavorless (and does not include any added flavorant). That is, if the e-liquid 104q were to be inhaled (i.e., in aerosol form) by a user, it would not have a particularly perceptible flavor or taste. It is to be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments the e-liquid 104q may comprise an inherent flavorant. In the present specification, the term flavorant may be understood as referring to one or more substances effective to activate at least one of an olfactory receptor in a human nasal cavity; and a taste receptor in a human oral cavity.

[1692] As is more apparent from FIG. 62, the e-liquid 104q is stored within a precursor reservoir in the form of a tank 105q that forms part of the consumable 103q. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 103q is a “single-use” consumable 103q. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid 104q in the tank 105q, the intention is that the user disposes of the entire consumable 103q. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e., aerosol precursor 104q) may be the only part of the system that is truly “single-use”. That is, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the main body or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g., a refillable cartomizer).

[1693] The tank 105q surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a fluid flow passage 106q-2 that extends between an inlet 107q-2 and an outlet 108q at opposing ends of the consumable 103q. In this respect, the passage 106q-2 comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 103q that engages with the main body 102q, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 103q that comprises a mouthpiece 109q of the system 101q. The fluid flow passage 106q-2 comprises an inlet 107q-2 at its upstream end, and an outlet at its downstream end, the outlet 108q-2 thus forming part of, or being located at, the mouthpiece 109q. When the consumable 103q is engaged with the main body 102q, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 109q so as to draw air through the passage 106q-2, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by arrows) in a direction from the inlet 107q-2 to the outlet 108q-2 of the passage 106q-2.

[1694] The passage 106q-2 may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube or a tube formed from plastic material) extending through the consumable 103q. At its upstream inlet end, the passage 106q-2 may be in fluid communication with a gap defined between the consumable 103q and the main body 102q when the consumable 103q and the main body 102q are interengaged such that when a user draws on the outlet 108q-2 at the mouthpiece 109q, ambient air from outside of the system 101q is drawn into the passage 106q-2 via the inlet 107q-2.

[1695] Alternatively, the main body 102q may additionally comprise a fluid passage 106q-1, extending from a main body inlet 107q-1 to a main body outlet 108q-1 as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 64. In such an arrangement, the main body outlet 108q-1 may be arranged such that when the main body 102q and consumable 103q are interengaged, a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed at the connection point between main body outlet 108q-1 and fluid inlet 107q-2, meaning that main body fluid passage 106q-1 and consumable passage 106q-2 become interconnected to form a single passage 106q extending through the smoking substitute system 101q and fluidly connecting main body inlet 107q-1 and consumable outlet 108q-2. Furthermore, the main body fluid passage 106q-1 or the consumable fluid passage 106q-2 may be shaped to provide a recess or receptacle 1000q into which a source of flavorant 132q may be received as will be described in more detail hereinafter.

[1696] The configuration of the passage 106q-1 illustrated in FIG. 64 is for illustrative purposes only, and is not intended to be limiting. For example, the fluid inlet 107q-1 might alternatively be located closer to or further away from the end of main body 102q which is configured to engage with the smoking substitute device 103q than illustrated, or may even be located on a different face of the main body 102q. The recess 1000q may be omitted, or may be located at a different position along the fluid passage 106q-1. Other components of the main body 102q (e.g., the power source) are not illustrated in FIG. 64 for clarity, but may be arranged to be adjacent to or surround all or part of the fluid passage 106q-1.

[1697] The smoking substitute device 101q is configured to vaporize the e-liquid 104q for inhalation by a user. To provide this function, the consumable 103q is provided with an aerosol generator comprising a porous wick 110q and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 111q that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick 110q. The aerosol generator is arranged between the inlet 107q-1 and the outlet 108q-2 of the smoking substitute system 101q, and is in fluid communication with both the inlet 107q-1 and the outlet 108q-2. The porous wick 110q extends across the passage 106q (e.g., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 106q) and opposing ends of the wick 110q extend into the tank 105q so as to be submerged in the e-liquid 104q and thus to draw e-liquid from the tank 105q via wicking or capillary action). In this way, e-liquid 104q contained in the tank 105q is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 110q to a central portion of the porous wick 110q so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 106q caused by a user inhaling or drawing on the mouthpiece 109q.

[1698] The helical filament 111q is wound about the exposed central portion of the porous wick 110q and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 112q mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 102q (when engaged).

[1699] When the consumable 103q is engaged with the main body 102q, the electrical contacts 112q make contact with corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 102q. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connected to a power source (not shown) of the main body 102q, such that the filament 111q is electrically connected to the power source when the consumable 103q and the main body 102q are interengaged. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 102q to the filament 111q in order to heat the filament 111q. This heat is transferred from the filament 111q to the porous wick 110q which causes e-liquid 104q conveyed by the porous wick 110q to increase in temperature to a point at which it vaporizes. The vaporized e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow past the wick 110q and, between the vaporization point at the filament 111q and the outlet 108q of the passage 106q, condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 109q, by a user of the system 101q.

[1700] The power source of the main body 102q may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery).

[1701] The main body 102q may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery.

[1702] The main body 102q may also comprise a controller that controls the supply of power from the power source to the main body electrical contacts (and thus to the filament 111q). That, is the controller may be configured to control a voltage applied across the main body electrical contacts, and thus the voltage applied across the filament 111q. In this way, the filament 111q may only be heated under certain conditions (e.g., during a puff and/or only when the system is in an active state). In this respect, the main body 102q may include a puff sensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a puff (i.e., inhalation). The puff sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal, to the controller, which is indicative of a puff state (i.e., puffing or not puffing). The puff sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor.

[1703] Although not shown, the main body 102q and consumable 103q may comprise a further interface which may, for example, be in the form of an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g., a type) of a consumable 103q engaged with the main body 102q. In this respect, the consumable 103q may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[1704] In the illustrated smoking substitute system 101q, a source of flavorant 132q is provided along a fluid passage 106q connecting the fluid inlet 107q and the aerosol generator such that the source is presented to a flow of fluid from said inlet 107q towards said aerosol generator, said flow of fluid being effective to release flavorant 132q from the source for entrainment in said fluid upstream of the aerosol generator. The source of flavorant 132q is arranged within the smoking substitute system 101q such that it is substantially thermally isolated from the filament 111q of the aerosol generator, and optionally is also substantially thermally isolated from the power source and/or other potentially heat-generating components of the system, such as electronic circuitry within the main body. To achieve this thermal isolation, embodiments are proposed in which the source of flavorant 132q is thermally insulated. Thermal isolation of the source of flavorant 132q in this manner may, for example, allow for the use of volatile flavorants 132q which would otherwise be too rapidly released into said fluid flow if exposed to elevated temperatures, or which may be susceptible to thermal degradation if subjected to elevated temperatures.

[1705] In embodiments in which the e-liquid 104q contains an inherent flavorant, it will be appreciated that the release of flavorant 132q from the source in the manner noted above will serve to supplement, and optionally blend with, the flavorant of the e-liquid 104q in use. For example, the flavorant 132q of the source may have the same flavor as that in the e-liquid 104q in order to supplement the flavor provided within the e-liquid and thereby provide the user with an intensified flavor sensation. Alternatively, the flavorant 132q of the source may be complementary to that in the e-liquid 104q (i.e., the flavors/aromas of the two flavorants, when mixed, provide a pleasing sensory combination to a user). Providing the flavorant 132q separately from the aerosol precursor 104q affords the user an opportunity to select from or change between different flavorants 132q without necessitating a change of e-liquid, for example during a vaping session.

[1706] Various arrangements within the smoking substitute device 101q, and specific configurations of the source of flavorant 132q are possible, some examples of which are described below.

[1707] For example, the source of flavorant 132q may be located in a consumable 103q-2 as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 63, the source of flavorant 132q being arranged so as to be thermally isolated from the aerosol generator smoking substitute device 101q, and preferably also from the power source and any other potentially heat-generating components of the system such as electronic circuitry. As illustrated in FIG. 63, the source of flavorant is thus spaced from the aerosol generator (along the flow passage 106q in the arrangement illustrated) and may be separated therefrom by thermally insulating material such as a suitable plastic material, and the tank 105q.

[1708] Alternatively, the source of flavorant 132q may be located in a main body 102q having a fluid passage 106q-1 therethrough. Such a fluid passage is illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 64. The source of flavorant 132q may be located at any position along said fluid passage 106q-1, provided that the source of flavorant 132q remains substantially thermally isolated from the aerosol generator of the smoking substitute system 101q, and preferably also from the power source and any other potentially heat-generating components of the system such as electronic circuitry. Part of passage 106q-1 may be shaped to form a recess, receptacle or chamber 120 into which a source of flavorant 132q may be received.