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AEROSOL DELIVERY SYSTEM

20220354168 · 2022-11-10

    Inventors

    Cpc classification

    International classification

    Abstract

    An aerosol delivery system comprising a first air passage having a first aerosol generator, and a second air passage separate from the first air passage having a second aerosol generator, wherein the first aerosol generator is operable to generate a first aerosol including an active ingredient, and the second aerosol generator is operable to generate a second aerosol including an active ingredient, the first aerosol being less visible than the second aerosol in use; and wherein the aerosol delivery system is configurable to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; the second aerosol generator alone; or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    Claims

    1. An aerosol delivery system comprising: a first air passage having a first aerosol generator, and a second air passage separate from the first air passage having a second aerosol generator, wherein the first aerosol generator is operable to generate a first aerosol including an active ingredient, and the second aerosol generator is operable to generate a second aerosol including an active ingredient, the first aerosol being less visible than the second aerosol in use; and wherein the aerosol delivery system is configurable to selectively operate: the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    2. An aerosol delivery system according to claim 1, wherein: the first aerosol generator comprises an air-permeable substrate disposed in the first air passage, being arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate, the air-permeable substrate being loaded with a first source of the active ingredient.

    3. An aerosol delivery system according to any of claims 1 to 2, wherein: the second aerosol generator comprises: a wick arranged in the second air passage, a heater operable to heat the wick, and a liquid storage tank arranged in fluid communication with the wick, the liquid storage tank comprising a liquid, being a second source of the active ingredient.

    4. An aerosol delivery system according to any preceding claim, comprising: a base unit, and a cartridge removably engagable with the base unit; wherein: the first aerosol generator and second aerosol generator are comprised by or within the cartridge, and the base unit is operable to configure the aerosol delivery system to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    5. An aerosol delivery apparatus configured for engagement with a base unit, the aerosol delivery apparatus and base unit forming an aerosol delivery system, the aerosol delivery apparatus comprising: a first air passage having a first aerosol generator, and a second air passage separate from the first air passage having a second aerosol generator, wherein the first aerosol generator is operable to generate a first aerosol including an active ingredient, and the second aerosol generator is operable to generate a second aerosol including an active ingredient, the first aerosol being less visible than the second aerosol in use.

    6. An aerosol delivery apparatus according to claim 5, wherein: the first aerosol generator comprises: an air-permeable substrate disposed in the first air passage and arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate, the air-permeable substrate being loaded with a first source of the active ingredient.

    7. An aerosol delivery apparatus according to either of claim 5 or 6, wherein: the second aerosol generator comprises: a wick arranged in the second air passage, a heater operable to heat the wick, and a liquid storage tank arranged in fluid communication with the wick, the liquid storage tank comprising a liquid, being a second source of the active ingredient.

    8. A base unit configured for engagement with an aerosol delivery apparatus according to any of claims 5 to 7, the base unit and aerosol delivery apparatus together forming an aerosol delivery system, wherein: the base unit is operable to configure the aerosol delivery system to selectively operate the first and/or second aerosol generators.

    9. An aerosol delivery apparatus configured for engagement with a base unit, the apparatus and base unit together forming an aerosol delivery system, the aerosol delivery apparatus comprising: a first air passage having a first aerosol generator, and a second air passage separate from the first air passage having a second aerosol generator, wherein the first aerosol generator is operable to generate a first aerosol including an active ingredient, and the second aerosol generator is operable to generate a second aerosol including an active ingredient, the first aerosol being less visible than the second aerosol in use; and wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus is configurable to selectively operate: the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    10. An aerosol delivery apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the first aerosol generator comprises: an air-permeable substrate disposed in the first air passage and arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate, the air-permeable substrate being loaded with a first source of an active ingredient for entrainment in air passing through the first air passage.

    11. An aerosol delivery apparatus according to any of claims 9 to 10, wherein the second aerosol generator comprises: a wick arranged in the second air passage, a heater, operable to heat the wick, and a liquid storage tank arranged in fluid communication with the wick, the liquid storage tank comprising a liquid, being a second source of an active ingredient.

    12. An aerosol delivery apparatus according to any of claims 9 to 11, wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus comprises: a mouthpiece comprising a mouthpiece air passage, wherein the mouthpiece is configurable to place the mouthpiece air passage in fluid communication with either the first air passage or the second air passage of the aerosol delivery apparatus to provide selectivity of operation for the first and second aerosol generators.

    13. An aerosol delivery system comprising: a base unit, and an aerosol delivery apparatus according to any of claims 9 to 12, wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus is removably engageable with the base unit.

    14. A method of using an aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 to generate an aerosol, comprising a step of configuring the aerosol delivery system to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    15. A method of using an aerosol delivery apparatus according to any of claims 9 to 12 to generate an aerosol, comprising a step of configuring the aerosol delivery apparatus to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    Description

    SUMMARY OF THE FIGURES

    [0169] 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:

    [0170] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a smoking substitute system according to a first embodiment of Developments A, B and C, in an engaged position;

    [0171] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the smoking substitute system of the first embodiment of Developments A, B and C in a disengaged position;

    [0172] FIG. 3 is a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of a first reference arrangement;

    [0173] FIG. 4 is a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of a second reference arrangement;

    [0174] FIG. 5 is an enlarged schematic cross sectional view of part of the air passage and vaporisation chamber of a reference arrangement;

    [0175] FIG. 6 is a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of an embodiment of Developments A and B;

    [0176] FIG. 7 is a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of a base unit of a smoking substitute system according to an embodiment of Developments A and B;

    [0177] FIGS. 8A and 8B are a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of an aerosol generator selector of a smoking substitute system of first and second embodiments of Developments A, B and C;

    [0178] FIGS. 9A and 9B are a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of an aerosol generator selector of a smoking substitute system of first and second embodiments of Developments A, B and C; and

    [0179] FIGS. 10A and 10B are a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of an aerosol generator selector of a smoking substitute system of first and second embodiments of Developments A, B and C.

    [0180] FIG. 11 is a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of an embodiment of Developments A and C;

    [0181] FIGS. 12A and 12B are a schematic longitudinal cross sectional view of a smoking substitute apparatus of an embodiment of Developments A and C.

    DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

    [0182] Further background to the present disclosure and further aspects and embodiments 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. The contents of all documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

    [0183] The embodiments of the disclosure are described as smoking substitute apparatuses or systems, in which the active ingredient typically comprises or consists of nicotine. However, on the basis of the present disclosure it will be apparent that the disclosure can be embodied more generally as an aerosol delivery apparatus or system. In such aerosol delivery apparatuses or systems the active ingredient may not comprise nicotine, and may instead comprise or consist of one or more of a nutritional agent, a pharmaceutical agent or a flavour agent.

    [0184] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a smoking substitute system in the form of an e-cigarette system 110. The system 110 comprises a main body 120 of the system 110, and a smoking substitute apparatus in the form of an e-cigarette consumable (or “pod”) 150. In the illustrated embodiment the consumable 150 (sometimes referred to herein as a smoking substitute apparatus) is removable from the main body 120, so as to be a replaceable component of the system 110. The e-cigarette system 110 is a closed system in the sense that it is not intended that the consumable should be refillable with e-liquid by a user.

    [0185] As is apparent from FIGS. 1 and 2, the consumable 150 is configured to engage the main body 120. FIG. 1 shows the main body 120 and the consumable 150 in an engaged state, whilst FIG. 2 shows the main body 120 and the consumable 150 in a disengaged state. When engaged, a portion of the consumable 150 is received in a cavity of corresponding shape in the main body 120 and is retained in the engaged position by way of a snap-engagement mechanism. In other embodiments, the main body 120 and consumable 150 may be engaged by screwing one into (or onto) the other, or through a bayonet fitting, or by way of an interference fit. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 150 is a “single-use” consumable 150. The term “single-use” does not necessarily mean the consumable is designed to be disposed of after a single smoking session. Rather, it defines that the consumable 150 is not designed to be refilled, and is instead disposed of and replaced after usage.

    [0186] The power source of the main body 120 may be in the form of a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion battery). The main body 120 may comprise a connector in the form of, e.g., a USB port for recharging this battery. The main body 120 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 264 or heater 164). 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 heater 164 or filament 264. In this way, the heater 164 or filament 264 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 120 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.

    [0187] Although not shown, the main body 120 and consumable 150 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 150 engaged with the main body 120. In this respect, the consumable 150 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.

    [0188] The system 110 is configured to vaporise an aerosol precursor. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate, respectively, first and second reference arrangements for aerosol generators.

    [0189] FIG. 3 illustrates an aerosol generator, wherein the aerosol precursor is provided as a nicotine-based liquid impregnated into a substrate 160. The nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 may be referred to as a first aerosol generator. When air is drawn through or over the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160, the nicotine is vaporised and entrained in the airflow to thereby be delivered to a user. The vapour or aerosol produced by the first aerosol generator is less visible than that produced by a conventional e-liquid from an e-cigarette when exhaled by a user. Preferably, the vapour or aerosol generated by the first aerosol generator is invisible or substantially invisible when exhaled by a user.

    [0190] A substrate 160 may be impregnated with nicotine by immersion in a solution of nicotine in a volatile carrier solvent (e.g., ethanol) such that the substrate 160 is evenly soaked. The substrate 160 can then be removed and left to dry or baked in an oven, meaning that the carrier is evaporated and the nicotine is left evenly spread throughout the substrate.

    [0191] Further details are now set out relating to the air-permeable substrate and its impregnation with an active ingredient.

    [0192] Suitable materials and methods for manufacturing air permeable substrates are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,800,903, 4,284,089, 4,813,437, and 5,167,242, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

    [0193] U.S. Pat. No. 4,800,903 discloses that preferred materials for a polymeric plug are olefinic polymers, and preferably polyethylene or polypropylene, most preferably high density polyethylene. Use of high density polyethylene is preferred over, for example, amorphous polyethylene, since it provides a balance between ease of manufacturing and capacity for reversible nicotine absorption.

    [0194] Meanwhile, some polymers are considered to be inherently unsuitable for use as an air permeable substrate. For example, some polymeric substances such as polystyrene and polycarbonate are dissolved by nicotine, rendering them unsuitable for forming a nicotine impregnated substrate. Furthermore, polymers containing halogens or nitrogen or sulphur are undesirable since they can produce noxious fumes.

    [0195] To improve user satisfaction, it may be preferable to use an air permeable substrate that provides an equivalent resistance to draw to that of a conventional cigarette. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,284,089 discloses that a non-combustible cigarette with a draw resistance approximating that of a conventional cigarette would permit about 35 millilitres of air to be drawn through it during a 2 second period.

    [0196] A substrate may be impregnated with nicotine by a variety of methods. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,800,903 indicates that liquid nicotine, nicotine vapour or a solution of nicotine may be used, and suggests that a solution of nicotine in supercritical liquid carbon dioxide may advantageously be used to impregnate the substrate. Alternatively, the substrate may be impregnated with nicotine via immersion in a liquid containing nicotine and a volatile carrier (for example a solution of nicotine in ethanol). The substrate is immersed to evenly soak the substrate. Once the substrate is removed from the liquid it can be left to dry or baked in an oven, evaporating away the carrier so that the nicotine is left evenly distributed throughout the substrate.

    [0197] U.S. Pat. No. 5,167,242 discloses that a polyethylene plug can be charged or loaded with a mixture of nicotine, menthol and ethanol in a weight ratio (nicotine:menthol:ethanol) of about 10:1:120 or 10:1:160. The menthol and nicotine are sequentially added to the ethanol in a mixing vessel to produce a solution. Meanwhile, the plugs are placed in a vacuum dryer, which is partially evacuated to create a lower internal pressure than that of the mixing vessel, allowing the nicotine/ethanol/methanol solution to be sucked into the vacuum dryer. The plugs remain immersed in the solution within the vacuum dryer for 10 minutes, after which the temperature is raised and the vacuum pump is started to evaporate the ethanol. The vacuum dryer is then filled with nitrogen, and a nitrogen atmosphere is maintained for the remainder of the packaging procedure to prevent oxygen contamination of the nicotine.

    [0198] In alternative embodiments, the air-permeable substrate may be formed in a different manner. For example, the air-permeable substrate may be formed from tobacco. The tobacco may be leaf tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, shredded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Preferably the tobacco has a relatively low moisture content, for example less than 10 wt % moisture. A typical minimum moisture content for the tobacco is not less than 4 wt % moisture. Such low moisture content tobacco, when exposed to heated air, would typically not produce a substantial vapour. Accordingly, such an air-permeable substrate may be loaded with a source of an active ingredient, as described above.

    [0199] Where the air-permeable substrate is formed for example of tobacco, the active agent may be applied to the air-permeable substrate by mixing and/or dissolving the active agent in a suitable carrier liquid such as a solvent (e.g., water, ethanol, PG, glycerine, macrogol, caster oil, paraffin, (and derivatives thereof)).

    [0200] The air is typically heated to a suitable temperature. This temperature may be at least 30° C. This is in order to promote vaporisation of the active ingredient. The temperature is typically not greater than 80° C., or typically not greater than 70° C. This is in order to promote user comfort. It may also reduce or prevent the degradation of the air-permeable substrate and/or the active ingredient.

    [0201] The nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 may be provided within a consumable 150a. In such an embodiment, when the supply of nicotine in the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 is depleted, the consumable 150a may be replaced. In other embodiments, the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 itself may be a consumable component of the system 110. For example, the nicotine-impregnated substrate may be locatable within and removable from the system 110.

    [0202] An arrangement comprising a nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 within a consumable 150a is illustrated in FIG. 3. The nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 is arranged within a passage 170. The passage 170 extends between a first aerosol generator inlet 172 and a first aerosol generator outlet 174 at opposing ends of the consumable 150. In this respect, the passage 170 comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 150 that engages with the main body 120, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 150 that comprises a mouthpiece 154 of the system 110.

    [0203] When the consumable 150a is received in the cavity of the main body 120 as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of device air inlets 176 are formed at the boundary between the casing of the consumable and the casing of the main body. The device air inlets 176 are in fluid communication with the aerosol generator inlet 172 through an inlet flow channel 178 formed in the cavity of the main body which is of corresponding shape to receive a part of the consumable 150a. Air from outside of the system 110 can therefore be drawn into the passage 170 through the device air inlets 176 and the inlet flow channels 178.

    [0204] When the consumable 150a is engaged with the main body 120, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 154 so as to draw air through the passage 170, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG. 3) in a direction from the first aerosol generator inlet 172 to the first aerosol generator outlet 174. Air is thereby drawn through and/or around the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160, such that nicotine from the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 can be entrained in the airflow. The nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 is arranged to extend across a cross-section of at least a portion of the passage 170, such that substantially all of the air drawn through the passage 170 passes through at least a part of the reservoir 160. The resistance to drawing air through the consumable 150a may be configured by altering the air permeability of the nicotine-impregnated substrate, or by the provision of one or more bypass passages separate from the passage 170 (not illustrated).

    [0205] In this arrangement, a heater 164 is arranged upstream of the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 along the passageway 170. The heater 164 is operable to heat air passing through the passageway 170 to enable or enhance nicotine entrainment. In this arrangement, the heater 164 comprises an electrically heatable mesh located in the airflow stream. The mesh may be formed of a material that is heatable by resistive heating using an electrical current. In other arrangements, the heater 164 may comprise a plurality of meshes. The heater 164 may be located in a passage in the base unit 120 (not illustrated), with the base unit passageway being in fluid communication with the passageway 170 of the consumable 150a. In further arrangements, the heater 164 may be located externally of the passageway 170 but placed in thermal communication with the airflow via thermally conductive elements which extend into or across the passageway 170 (not illustrated). In still further arrangements, the heater may be omitted.

    [0206] When the consumable 150a is engaged with the main body 120, electrical contacts 156 make contact with corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 120. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connectable to a power source (not shown) of the main body 120, such that (in the engaged position) the heater 164 is electrically connectable to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 120 to the heater 164 in order to heat the heater 164.

    [0207] The passageway 170 may comprise one or more one-way valves 166. The one or more valves are provided to prevent, substantially prevent or reduce airflow from a downstream to upstream direction along the passageway 170. In FIG. 3, two valves 166 are located immediately upstream and immediately downstream, respectively, of the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160. In some embodiments, only one valve 166 may be provided. In further embodiments, a valve 166 may be located upstream of the heater 164. In still further embodiments, the valves may be omitted.

    [0208] The system 110 may additionally or alternatively be configured to vaporise an aerosol precursor, which in the illustrated reference arrangement is in the form of a nicotine-based e-liquid 260. The e-liquid 260 comprises nicotine and a base liquid including propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 260 is flavoured by a flavourant. In other embodiments, the e-liquid 260 may be flavourless and thus may not include any added flavourant. In the present embodiment, the e-liquid 260 produces a visible vapour cloud when vapourised.

    [0209] The aerosol precursor is vaporised by the aerosol generator of the system 110. FIG. 4 shows a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator which can form part of the substitute smoking system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In FIG. 4, the e-liquid 260 is stored within a reservoir in the form of a tank 252 that forms part of the system 110 or a consumable 150b.

    [0210] The tank may include a vent (not shown) to allow ingress of air to replace e-liquid that has been used from the tank. The consumable 150b preferably includes a window 158 (see FIGS. 1 and 2), so that the amount of e-liquid in the tank 252 can be visually assessed. The main body 120 includes a slot 157 so that the window 158 of the consumable 150b can be seen whilst the rest of the tank 252 is obscured from view when the consumable 150b is received in the cavity of the main body 120. The consumable 150b may be referred to as a “clearomizer” when it includes a window 158, or a “cartomizer” when it does not.

    [0211] In other arrangements, 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, in such other arrangements, 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).

    [0212] In FIG. 4, the tank 252 annularly surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, a passage 170 that extends between an aerosol generator inlet 172 and an outlet 174 at opposing ends of the consumable 150b. In this respect, the passage 170 comprises an upstream end at the end of the consumable 150b that engages with the main body 120, and a downstream end at an opposing end of the consumable 150b that comprises a mouthpiece 154 of the system 110.

    [0213] When the consumable 150b is received in the cavity of the main body 120 as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of device air inlets 176 are formed at the boundary between the casing of the consumable and the casing of the main body. The device air inlets 176 are in fluid communication with the aerosol generator inlet 172 through an inlet flow channel 178 formed in the cavity of the main body which is of corresponding shape to receive a part of the consumable 150b. Air from outside of the system 110 can therefore be drawn into the passage 170 through the device air inlets 176 and the inlet flow channels 178.

    [0214] When the consumable 150b is engaged with the main body 120, a user can inhale (i.e., take a puff) via the mouthpiece 154 so as to draw air through the passage 170, and so as to form an airflow (indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG. 4) in a direction from the aerosol generator inlet 172 to the outlet 174. Although not illustrated, the passage 170 may be partially defined by a tube (e.g., a metal tube) extending through the consumable 150b. In FIG. 3, for simplicity, the passage 170 is shown with a substantially circular cross-sectional profile with a constant diameter along its length. In other arrangements, the passage may have other cross-sectional profiles, such as oval shaped, racetrack shaped or polygonal shaped profiles. Further, in other arrangements, the cross sectional profile and the diameter (or hydraulic diameter) of the passage may vary along its longitudinal axis.

    [0215] The aerosol generator of the smoking substitute system 110 is configured to vaporise the e-liquid 260 for inhalation by a user. To provide this operability, the aerosol generator comprises a heater having a porous wick 262 and a resistive heating element in the form of a heating filament 264 that is helically wound (in the form of a coil) around a portion of the porous wick 262. The porous wick 262 extends across the passage 170 (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage 170 and thus also transverse to the air flow along the passage 170 during use) and opposing ends of the wick 262 extend into the tank 252 (so as to be immersed in the e-liquid 260). In this way, e-liquid 260 contained in the tank 252 is conveyed from the opposing ends of the porous wick 262 to a central portion of the porous wick 262 so as to be exposed to the airflow in the passage 170.

    [0216] The helical filament 264 is wound about the exposed central portion of the porous wick 262 and is electrically connected to an electrical interface in the form of electrical contacts 156 mounted at the end of the consumable that is proximate the main body 120 (when the consumable and the main body are engaged). When the consumable 150b is engaged with the main body 120, electrical contacts 156 make contact with corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) of the main body 120. The main body electrical contacts are electrically connectable to a power source (not shown) of the main body 120, such that (in the engaged position) the filament 264 is electrically connectable to the power source. In this way, power can be supplied by the main body 120 to the filament 264 in order to heat the filament 264. This heats the porous wick 262 which causes e-liquid 260 conveyed by the porous wick 262 to vaporise and thus to be released from the porous wick 262. The vaporised e-liquid becomes entrained in the airflow and, as it cools in the airflow (between the heated wick and the outlet 174 of the passage 170), condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then inhaled, via the mouthpiece 154, by a user of the system 110. As e-liquid is lost from the heated portion of the wick, further e-liquid is drawn along the wick from the tank to replace the e-liquid lost from the heated portion of the wick.

    [0217] The filament 264 and the exposed central portion of the porous wick 262 are positioned across the passage 170. More specifically, the part of passage that contains the filament 264 and the exposed portion of the porous wick 262 forms a vaporisation chamber. In the illustrated example, the vaporisation chamber has the same cross-sectional diameter as the passage 170. However, in other arrangements the vaporisation chamber may have a different cross sectional profile as the passage 170. For example, the vaporisation chamber may have a larger cross sectional diameter than at least some of the downstream part of the passage 170 so as to enable a longer residence time for the air inside the vaporisation chamber.

    [0218] FIG. 5 illustrates in more detail the vaporisation chamber and therefore the region of the consumable 150 around the wick 262 and filament 264. The helical filament 264 is wound around a central portion of the porous wick 262. The porous wick extends across passage 170. E-liquid 260 contained within the tank 252 is conveyed as illustrated schematically by arrows 401, i.e., from the tank and towards the central portion of the porous wick 262.

    [0219] When the user inhales, air is drawn from through the inlets 176 shown in FIG. 4, along inlet flow channel 178 to vaporisation chamber inlet 172 and into the vaporisation chamber containing porous wick 262. The porous wick 262 extends substantially transverse to the airflow direction. The airflow passes around the porous wick, at least a portion of the airflow substantially following the surface of the porous wick 262. In examples where the porous wick has a cylindrical cross-sectional profile, the airflow may follow a curved path around an outer periphery of the porous wick 262.

    [0220] At substantially the same time as the airflow passes around the porous wick 262, the filament 264 is heated so as to vaporise the e-liquid which has been wicked into the porous wick. The airflow passing around the porous wick 262 picks up this vaporised e-liquid, and the vapour-containing airflow is drawn in direction 403 further down passage 170.

    [0221] Some embodiments of the disclosure relate to a smoking substitute system or apparatus that comprises two aerosol generators, wherein the first aerosol generator generates a vapour that is less visible than the vapour generated by the second aerosol generator. Different embodiments of the present disclosure will now be outlined, such that the disclosure may be better understood.

    [0222] FIG. 6 illustrates a consumable or smoking substitute apparatus 150c according to an embodiment of Developments A and B. The apparatus 150c comprises features from the reference arrangements of both FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. Features which are in common with the reference arrangements are indicated with the same reference numerals.

    [0223] The apparatus 150c comprises a first air passage 170a, extending from a first aerosol generator inlet 172a to a first aerosol generator outlet 174a arranged at the mouthpiece 154 of the system 110. A nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 is arranged in the first passage 170a such that air drawn through the passage 170a passes through the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160. In the present embodiment, one-way valves 166a and 166b are arranged upstream and downstream, respectively, of the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 along the passage 170a. In other embodiments, only one one-way valve may be provided. In still further embodiments, the one-way valves 166a and 166b may be omitted.

    [0224] The apparatus 150c further comprises a second air passage 170b, extending from a second aerosol generator inlet 172b to a second aerosol generator outlet 174b arranged at the mouthpiece 154 of the system 110. A tank 252 comprising aerosol precursor 260 annularly surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, the passage 170b. A porous wick 262 and heating coil 264 are provided, as already described in the context of the second reference arrangement.

    [0225] The apparatus 150c of this embodiment is configured for engagement with a main body 120a as illustrated in FIG. 7. In this embodiment, the main body 120a comprises a passage 78 extending from an air inlet 76 to an aerosol generator selector 80. A first main-body air passage 70a extends from the aerosol generator selector 80 to a first outlet 74a. A second main-body air passage 70b extends from the aerosol generator selector 80 to a second outlet 74b. When the apparatus 150c is engaged with the main body 120a, the first main-body air passage 70a is placed in fluid communication with the first air passage 170a of the consumable 150c, and the second main-body air passage 70c is placed in fluid communication with the second air passage 170b of the consumable 150c. In other embodiments, the first main-body air passage 70a and second main-body air passage 70b may comprise independent air inlets (not illustrated).

    [0226] In this embodiment, the first main-body air passage 70a further comprises a heater 164, which is operable to heat air passing through the first main-body air passage 70a, and thereby through the first air passage 170a of the apparatus 150c, enabling or enhancing the nicotine entrainment from the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160. In other embodiments, the heater 164 may be omitted.

    [0227] In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol generator selector 80 is a physical means for allowing air to pass through either the first air passage 70a or the second air passage 70b. The aerosol generator selector 80 may comprises a valve that is controllable via a mechanical switch 82 to physically move a valve. Additionally, or alternatively, the aerosol generator selector 80 may comprise a valve that is movable or controllable by an actuator (not illustrated).

    [0228] Where the aerosol generator selector 80 comprises a valve to allow or prevent air flow through an air passage, a valve may be provided only in the first air passage 70a, only in the second air passage 70b, or in both the first air passage 70a and second air passage 70b. One or more of the valves may be linked either mechanically or electrically such that they are configured to operate in combination or synchronism.

    [0229] For example, the aerosol generator selector 80 may comprise a sliding wall or barrier 84 that blocks either the first air passage 70a or the second air passage 70b, as illustrated in FIGS. 8A, 8B. Alternatively, a component 86 which configures a connection between the flow passage 78 and the first air passage 70a or the second air passage 70b may be provided as illustrated in FIGS. 9A, 9B. In further embodiments, the aerosol generator selector 80 may comprise a three-way valve 88 as illustrated in FIGS. 10A, 10B. In still further embodiments, the aerosol generator selector 80 may comprise a ball valve (not illustrated) operable to open or close one of the first air passage 70a and the second air passage 70b.

    [0230] In alternative embodiments, selecting an aerosol generator may be done via control of the heater 164 and heating coil 264. In such an embodiment, both the first air passage 70a and the second air passage 70b may remain open such that air can be drawn through. This configuration may be advantageous for providing a consistent resistance to draw for the smoking substitute apparatus 150c, since the air passages through the apparatus are not required to be changed to effect the switching. A switch may be provided to selectively operate one of the heating mesh 164 in the first air passage 70a or the heating coil 264 in the second air passage 170b. Alternatively, the switching function may be implemented by a controller of the substitute smoking system 110. This latter configuration may be advantageous by enabling the switching function in the absence of moving mechanical parts.

    [0231] In still further embodiments, the means for control may be both a physical control of the respective air passages 70a, 70b and an electrical control of the respective heaters 164, 264. This configuration may be advantageous for reducing the electrical power requirements of the system 110 by avoiding unnecessary operation of the heaters 164, 264.

    [0232] In still further embodiments, the aerosol generator selector 80 may control only one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator. In particular, the aerosol generator selector 80 may enable or prevent operation of the second aerosol generator, while the first aerosol generator remains operable whenever air is drawn through the system 110. In such an embodiment, a user can therefore switchably control the generation of a visible vapour or aerosol by the second aerosol generator

    [0233] An embodiment of Developments A and C is as illustrated in FIG. 11. In particular, FIG. 11 illustrates a consumable or smoking substitute apparatus 150d according to a second embodiment of Development A, and a first embodiment of Development C. The apparatus 150d comprises features from the reference arrangements of both FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, and from previously described embodiments of various Developments. Features which are in common with the reference arrangements and previously described embodiments are indicated with the same reference numerals.

    [0234] The apparatus 150d differs from that of the previously described embodiments in that the means 180 for mechanically or electrically controlling the operation of at least the second aerosol generator is comprised within the apparatus 150d (as opposed to a corresponding base unit). It further differs from that of either the first or second reference arrangements in that it includes two independent aerosol generators arranged in separate air passages 170a, 170b

    [0235] The apparatus 150d comprises a first air passage 170a, extending from the means for aerosol generator selection 180 to a first aerosol generator outlet 174a arranged at the mouthpiece 154 of the system 110. A nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 is arranged in the first passage 170a such that air drawn through the passage 170a passes through the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160. In the present embodiment, one-way valves 166a and 166b are arranged upstream and downstream, respectively, of the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160 along the passage 170a. In other embodiments, only one one-way valve may be provided. In still further embodiments, the one-way valves 166a and 166b may be omitted.

    [0236] In this embodiment, the first air passage 170a further comprises a heater 164, which is operable to heat air passing through the first air passage 170a, enabling or enhancing the nicotine entrainment from the nicotine-impregnated substrate 160. In other embodiments, the heater 164 may be omitted.

    [0237] The apparatus 150d further comprises a second air passage 170b, extending from the aerosol generator selector 180 to a second aerosol generator outlet 174b arranged at the mouthpiece 154 of the system 110. A tank 252 comprising aerosol precursor 260 annularly surrounds, and thus defines a portion of, the passage 170b. A porous wick 262 and heating coil 264 are provided, as already described in the context of the second reference arrangement.

    [0238] In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol generator selector 180 is a physical means for allowing air to enter or pass through either the first air passage 170a or the second air passage 170b. The aerosol generator selector 180 may comprises a valve that is controllable via a mechanical switch 182 to physically move a valve. Additionally, or alternatively, the aerosol generator selector 180 may comprise a valve that is movable or controllable by an actuator (not illustrated).

    [0239] Where the aerosol generator selector 180 comprises a valve to allow or prevent air flow through an air passage, a valve may be provided only in the first air passage 170a, only in the second air passage 170b, or in both the first air passage 170a and second air passage 170b. One or more of the valves may be linked either mechanically or electrically such that they are configured to operate in combination or synchronism. Examples of different configurations of the aerosol generator selector 180 are the same as those described for the aerosol generator 80 of the previously described embodiment, and illustrated in FIGS. 8, 9, and 10.

    [0240] For example, the aerosol generator selector 180 may comprise a sliding wall or barrier 184 that blocks either the first air passage 170a or the second air passage 170b, as illustrated in FIGS. 8A, 8B. Alternatively, a component 186 which configures a connection between the air inlet 172 and the first air passage 170a or the second air passage 170b may be provided as illustrated in FIGS. 9A, 9B. In further embodiments, the aerosol generator selector 180 may comprise a three-way valve 188 as illustrated in FIGS. 10A, 10B. In still further embodiments, the aerosol generator selector 180 may comprise a ball valve (not illustrated) operable to open or close one of the first air passage 170a and the second air passage 170b.

    [0241] As with the previously described embodiment, selecting an aerosol generator may be done via control of the heater 164 and heating coil 264. In such an embodiment, both the first air passage 170a and the second air passage 170b may remain open such that air can be drawn through. This configuration may be advantageous for providing a consistent resistance to draw for the smoking substitute apparatus 150d, since the air passages through the apparatus are not required to be changed to effect the switching. A switch may be provided to selectively operate one of the heating mesh 164 in the first air passage 170a or the heating coil 264 in the second air passage 170b. Alternatively, the switching function may be implemented by a controller of the substitute smoking system 110. This latter configuration may be advantageous by enabling the switching function in the absence of moving mechanical parts.

    [0242] In still further embodiments, the means for control may be both a physical control of the respective air passages 170a, 170b and an electrical control of the respective heaters 164, 264. This configuration may be advantageous for reducing the electrical power requirements of the system 110 by avoiding unnecessary operation of the heaters 164, 264.

    [0243] In still further embodiments, the aerosol generator selector 180 may control only one of the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator. In particular, the aerosol generator selector 180 may enable or prevent operation of the second aerosol generator, while the first aerosol generator remains operable whenever air is drawn through the system 110. In such an embodiment, a user can therefore switchably control the generation of a visible vapour or aerosol by the second aerosol generator

    [0244] A further embodiment of Developments A and C is as illustrated in FIGS. 12A, 12B. Specifically, these figures illustrate a third embodiment of Development A, and a second embodiment of Development C. The substitute smoking apparatus 150e of this further embodiment differs from that of the previously described embodiment in that the means for aerosol generator selection is provided at the mouthpiece 154a of the apparatus. The mouthpiece 154a comprises a single air passage therethrough which can be placed in fluid communication with either the first air passage 170a or the second air passage 170b, and which leads to a single outlet 174c. The mouthpiece 154a can be moved between a first position wherein the air passage is in fluid communication with the first air passage 170a and a second position wherein the air passage is in fluid communication with the second air passage 170b. For example, the mouthpiece may be rotatable between the first position and the second position. A pivot point (not illustrated) may be provided at the join between the mouthpiece 154a and the substitute smoking apparatus 150e to provide this functionality. Alternatively, the mouthpiece 154a may be detachable from the substitute smoking apparatus 150e for rotation. The mouthpiece 154a may further comprise means for electrical connection of the heaters 164, 264 to a power source located in a base unit 120, thereby controlling which of the heaters 164, 264 is operable according to the mouthpiece position.

    [0245] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the disclosure in diverse forms thereof.

    [0246] While the disclosure has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

    [0247] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

    [0248] Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

    [0249] Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “have”, “comprise”, and “include”, and variations such as “having”, “comprises”, “comprising”, and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

    [0250] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to a numerical value is optional and means, for example, +/−10%.

    [0251] The words “preferred” and “preferably” are used herein refer to embodiments of the disclosure that may provide certain benefits under some circumstances. It is to be appreciated, however, that other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different circumstances. The recitation of one or more preferred embodiments therefore does not mean or imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, or from the scope of the claims.

    ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

    [0252] In the following numbered “clauses” are set out statements of broad combinations of novel and inventive features of the present disclosure herein disclosed.

    [0253] A1. An aerosol delivery system (110) comprising: [0254] a first air passage (170a) having a first aerosol generator, and [0255] a second air passage (170b) separate from the first air passage (170a) having a second aerosol generator, [0256] wherein the first aerosol generator is operable to generate a first aerosol including an active ingredient, and [0257] the second aerosol generator is operable to generate a second aerosol including an active ingredient, the first aerosol being less visible than the second aerosol in use; and wherein [0258] the aerosol delivery system (110) is configurable to selectively operate: the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0259] A2. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to clause A1, wherein: the first aerosol generator comprises an air-permeable substrate (160) disposed in the first air passage (170a), being arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage (170a) to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate (160), the air-permeable substrate (160) being loaded with a first source of the active ingredient.

    [0260] A3. An aerosol delivery system according to any of clauses A1 to A2, wherein: the second aerosol generator comprises: [0261] a wick (262) arranged in the second air passage (170b), [0262] a heater (264) operable to heat the wick (262), and [0263] a liquid storage tank (252) arranged in fluid communication with the wick (262), the liquid storage tank (252) comprising a liquid (260), being a second source of the active ingredient.

    [0264] A4. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to any preceding clause, comprising: [0265] a base unit (120a), and [0266] a cartridge (150c) removably engagable with the base unit; wherein: [0267] the first aerosol generator and second aerosol generator are comprised by or within the cartridge (150c), and [0268] the base unit (120a) is operable to configure the aerosol delivery system (110) to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0269] A5. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) configured for engagement with a base unit (120a), the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) and base unit (120a) forming an aerosol delivery system (110), the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) comprising: [0270] a first air passage (170a) having a first aerosol generator, and [0271] a second air passage (170b) separate from the first air passage (170a) having a second aerosol generator, [0272] wherein the first aerosol generator is operable to generate a first aerosol including an active ingredient, and [0273] the second aerosol generator is operable to generate a second aerosol including an active ingredient, the first aerosol being less visible than the second aerosol in use.

    [0274] A6. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) according to clause A5, wherein: the first aerosol generator comprises: an air-permeable substrate (160) disposed in the first air passage (170a) and arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage (170a) to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate (160), the air-permeable substrate (160) being loaded with a first source of the active ingredient.

    [0275] A7. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) according to either of clauses A5 or A6, wherein: the second aerosol generator comprises: [0276] a wick (262) arranged in the second air passage (170b), [0277] a heater (264) operable to heat the wick (262), and [0278] a liquid storage tank (252) arranged in fluid communication with the wick (262), the liquid storage tank (252) comprising a liquid (260), being a second source of the active ingredient.

    [0279] A8. A base unit (120a) configured for engagement with an aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) according to any of clauses A5 to A7, the base unit (120a) and aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) together forming an aerosol delivery system (110), wherein: the base unit (120a) is operable to configure the aerosol delivery system (110) to selectively operate the first and/or second aerosol generators.

    [0280] A9. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) configured for engagement with a base unit (120), the apparatus and base unit together forming an aerosol delivery system (110), the aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) comprising: [0281] a first air passage (170a) having a first aerosol generator, and [0282] a second air passage (170b) separate from the first air passage (170a) having a second aerosol generator, [0283] wherein the first aerosol generator is operable to generate a first aerosol including an active ingredient, and the second aerosol generator is operable to generate a second aerosol including an active ingredient, the first aerosol being less visible than the second aerosol in use; and [0284] wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) is configurable to selectively operate: [0285] the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0286] A10. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) according to clause A9, wherein the first aerosol generator comprises: an air-permeable substrate (160) disposed in the first air passage (170a) and arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage (170a) to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate (160), the air-permeable substrate being loaded with a first source of an active ingredient for entrainment in air passing through the first air passage (170a).

    [0287] A11. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) according to any of clauses A9 to A10, wherein the second aerosol generator comprises: [0288] a wick (262) arranged in the second air passage (170b), [0289] a heater (264), operable to heat the wick (262), and [0290] a liquid storage tank (252) arranged in fluid communication with the wick (262), the liquid storage tank (252) comprising a liquid (260), being a second source of an active ingredient.

    [0291] A12. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150e) according to any of clauses A9 to A11, wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus (150e) comprises: a mouthpiece (154a) comprising a mouthpiece air passage (170c), wherein the mouthpiece (154a) is configurable to place the mouthpiece air passage (170c) in fluid communication with either the first air passage (170a) or the second air passage (170b) of the aerosol delivery apparatus (150e) to provide selectivity of operation for the first and second aerosol generators.

    [0292] A13. An aerosol delivery system (110) comprising: a base unit (120), and an aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) according to any of clauses A9 to A12, wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus (150b) is removably engageable with the base unit (120).

    [0293] A14. A method of using an aerosol delivery system (110) according to any one of clauses A1 to A4 to generate an aerosol, comprising a step of configuring the aerosol delivery system (110) to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0294] A15. A method of using an aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) according to any of clauses A9 to A12 to generate an aerosol, comprising a step of configuring the aerosol delivery apparatus (150d, 150e) to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0295] B1. An aerosol delivery system (110) comprising: [0296] a first air passage (70a, 170a) having a first aerosol generator, and [0297] a second air passage (70b, 170b) separate from the first air passage (70a, 170a) and having a second aerosol generator, [0298] wherein the first aerosol generator comprises: [0299] an air-permeable substrate (160) disposed in the first air passage (170a) and arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage (170a) to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate (160), the air-permeable substrate (160) being loaded with a first source of an active ingredient; and [0300] wherein the second aerosol generator comprises: [0301] a wick (262) arranged in the second air passage (170b), [0302] a heater (264) operable to heat the wick (262), and [0303] a liquid storage tank (252) arranged in fluid communication with the wick (262), the liquid storage tank (252) comprising a liquid (260), being a second source of an active ingredient, and [0304] wherein the aerosol delivery system (110) is configurable to selectively operate: the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0305] B2. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to clause B1 comprising an aerosol generator selector to configure the aerosol delivery system (110) to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0306] B3. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to clause B2, wherein the aerosol generator selector comprises: a valve operable to control air flow through the first air passage (70a, 170a) to provide selectivity of operation for the first aerosol generator.

    [0307] B4. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to either of clauses B2 or B3, wherein the aerosol generator selector comprises: a valve operable to control air flow through the second air passage (70b, 170b) to provide selectivity of operation for the second aerosol generator.

    [0308] B5. An aerosol delivery system (110) according any preceding clause, wherein the first aerosol generator further comprises: a heater (164) arranged in the first air passage (70a, 170a) and configured to heat air being drawn through the first air passage (70a, 170a).

    [0309] B6. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to clause B5, wherein the heater (164) for heating the air in the first air passage (70a, 170a) comprises an electrically heatable mesh.

    [0310] B7. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to any preceding clause, further comprising: at least one one-way valve (166) arranged along at least one of the first air passage (70a, 170a) and the second air passage (70b, 170b) and configured to allow air to flow through the valve (166) in an upstream to downstream direction.

    [0311] B8. An aerosol delivery system (110) according to any preceding clause, comprising: [0312] a base unit (120a), and [0313] a cartridge (150c) removably engagable with the base unit; [0314] wherein: [0315] the first aerosol generator and second aerosol generator are comprised by or within the cartridge (150c), and [0316] the base unit (120a) is operable to configure the aerosol delivery system (110) to selectively operate the first and/or second aerosol generators.

    [0317] B9. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) configured for engagement with a base unit (120a), the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) and base unit (120a) forming an aerosol delivery system (110), the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) comprising: [0318] a first air passage (70a, 170a) having a first aerosol generator, and [0319] a second air passage (70b, 170b) separate from the first air passage (70a, 170a) and having a second aerosol generator, [0320] wherein the first aerosol generator comprises: [0321] an air-permeable substrate (160) disposed in the first air passage (170a) and arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage (170a) to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate (160), the air-permeable substrate (160) being loaded with a first source of nicotine; [0322] and wherein the second aerosol generator comprises: [0323] a wick (262) arranged in the second air passage (170b), [0324] a heater (264) operable to heat the wick (262), and [0325] a liquid storage tank (252) arranged in fluid communication with the wick (262), the liquid storage tank (252) comprising a liquid (260), being a second source of nicotine.

    [0326] B10. A base unit (120a) configured for engagement with an aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) according to clause B9, the base unit (120a) and aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) together forming an aerosol delivery system (110), wherein: the base unit (120a) is operable to configure the aerosol delivery system (110) to selectively operate the first and/or second aerosol generators.

    [0327] B11. A base unit (120a) according to clause B10, wherein: the base unit (120a) is operable to supply heated air to the first air passage (170a) of an engaged aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) according to clause B9.

    [0328] B12. A base unit (120a) according to clause B11, wherein the base unit (120a) comprises a first air passage (70a) arranged to be in fluid communication with the first air passage (170a) of the engaged aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) according to clause B9, and wherein the first air passage (70a) comprises a heater for heating the air in the first air passage (70a).

    [0329] B13. A base unit (120a) according to clause B12, wherein: the heater (164) for heating the air in the first air passage (70) comprises an electrically heatable mesh.

    [0330] B14. A method of using an aerosol delivery system (110) according to any one of clauses B1 to B8 to generate an aerosol.

    [0331] B15. A method of using an aerosol delivery system (110) according to clause B14, further comprising a step of configuring the aerosol delivery system to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0332] C1. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) configured for engagement with a base unit (120), the apparatus and base unit together forming an aerosol delivery system (110), the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) comprising: [0333] a first air passage (170a) having a first aerosol generator, and [0334] a second air passage (170b) separate from the first air passage (170a) having a second aerosol generator, [0335] wherein the first aerosol generator comprises: [0336] an air-permeable substrate (160) disposed in the first air passage (170a) and arranged to allow air being drawn through the first air passage (170a) to be drawn through the air-permeable substrate (160), the air-permeable substrate being loaded with a first source of an active ingredient for entrainment in heated air passing through the first air passage (170a); and [0337] wherein the second aerosol generator comprises: [0338] a wick (262) arranged in the second air passage (170b), [0339] a heater (264), operable to heat the wick (262), and [0340] a liquid storage tank (252) arranged in fluid communication with the wick (262), [0341] the liquid storage tank (252) comprising a liquid (260), being a second source of an active ingredient; [0342] wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c) is configurable to selectively operate: the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0343] C2. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to clause C1 comprising an aerosol generator selector to configure the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) to selectively operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.

    [0344] C3. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to clause C2, wherein the aerosol generator selector comprises: a valve operable to control air flow through the first air passage (170a) to provide selectivity of operation for the first aerosol generator.

    [0345] C4. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to either of clauses C2 or C3, wherein the aerosol generator selector comprises: a valve operable to control air flow through the second air passage (170b) to provide selectivity of operation for the second aerosol generator.

    [0346] C5. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to clause C2, wherein the aerosol generator selector comprises: a three-way valve (188) operable to direct air flow to the first air passage (170a) or the second air passage (170b) to provide selectivity of operation for the first aerosol generator and the second aerosol generator.

    [0347] C6. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150d) according to clause C2, wherein the aerosol generator selector comprises: a mouthpiece (154a) comprising a mouthpiece air passage (170c), wherein the mouthpiece (154a) is configurable to place the mouthpiece air passage (170c) in fluid communication with either the first air passage (170a) or the second air passage (170b) of the aerosol delivery apparatus (150d).

    [0348] C7. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150d) according to clause C6, wherein: the mouthpiece (154a) is rotatable between a first position wherein the mouthpiece air passage (170c) is in fluid communication with the first air passage (170a) of the aerosol delivery apparatus (150d) and a second position wherein the mouthpiece air passage (170c) is in fluid communication with the second air passage (170b) of the aerosol delivery apparatus (150d).

    [0349] C8. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according any preceding clause, wherein: the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) is configurable to selectively operate the heater (254) of the second aerosol generator to provide selectivity of operation for the second aerosol generator.

    [0350] C9. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to any preceding clause, wherein the first aerosol generator further comprises: a heater (164) arranged in the first air passage (170a) and configured to heat air being drawn through the first air passage (170a).

    [0351] C10. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to clause C9, wherein the heater (164) for heating the air in the first air passage (170a) comprises an electrically heatable mesh.

    [0352] C11. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to any of clauses C9 to C10, wherein: the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) is configurable to selectively operate the heater (164) of the first aerosol generator to provide selectivity of operation for the first aerosol generator.

    [0353] C12. An aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to any preceding clause, further comprising: at least one one-way valve (166) arranged along at least one of the first air passage (70a, 170a) and the second air passage (70b, 170b) and configured to allow air to flow through the valve (166) in an upstream to downstream direction.

    [0354] C13. An aerosol delivery system (110) comprising: a base unit (120), and an aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to any of clauses C1 to C12, wherein the aerosol delivery apparatus (150b) is removably engageable with the base unit (120).

    [0355] C14. A method of using an aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to any one of clauses C1 to C12 to generate an aerosol.

    [0356] C15. A method of using an aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) according to clause C14, further comprising the step of configuring the aerosol delivery apparatus (150c, 150d) to operate the first aerosol generator alone; and/or the second aerosol generator alone; and/or the first and second aerosol generators together.