SMOKING SUBSTITUTE SYSTEM

Abstract

A consumable for a smoking substitute device contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein a solid additive is located within the tank of the consumable. The solid additive 750 is used to add materials to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

Claims

1. A consumable for a smoking substitute device which contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises a solid additive, characterised in that the solid additive is provided in the form of one or more bodies that are sized to prevent the solid additive blocking the flow of liquid through the consumable.

2. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the one or more bodies comprise a width, a length and a height which are each greater than 2 mm.

3. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the one or more bodies comprise a width, a length and a height which are each greater than 5 mm.

4. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the one or more bodies comprise at least one dimension greater than 5 mm.

5. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the one or more bodies comprise a length in the range 5 to 40 mm.

6. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the one or more bodies comprise a width in a range of 2 to 25 mm.

7. A consumable as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more bodies comprise a height and/or a wall thickness in a range of 0.5 to 5 mm.

8. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the solid additive comprises one or more bodies and said bodies comprise one or more shapes chosen from: elongate; spheroidal; ellipsoidal; spherical; planar; irregular, pellet; spaghetti; cuboid; and pyramidal.

9. A consumable as claimed in claim 8 wherein the solid additive comprises one or more bodies in the form of elongate and/or planar bodies.

10. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the solid additive comprises one or more bodies comprising one or more cavities through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may flow.

11. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the one or more bodies comprise at least one ribbed surface.

12. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the solid additive adds one or more components chosen from a flavourant, a flavour enhancer, nicotine, a catalyst, additional chemicals, and/or means to remove chemicals to the liquid aerosol-forming liquid.

13. A consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the one or more bodies comprise tobacco and/or extracts of tobacco.

14. A solid additive for a consumable as claimed in claim 1.

15. Use of a solid additive for a consumable as claimed in claim 1 wherein the additive is placed in a tank of a consumable, said tank being used to retain liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0506] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0507] FIG. 1(a) shows an example smoking substitute device in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0508] FIG. 1(b) shows the main body of the smoking substitute device of FIG. 1(a) without the consumable in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0509] FIG. 1(c) shows the consumable of the smoking substitute device of FIG. 1(a) without the main body in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0510] FIG. 2(a) is a schematic view of the main body of the smoking substitute device of FIG. 1(a) in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0511] FIG. 2(b) is a schematic view of the consumable of the smoking substitute device of FIG. 1(b) in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0512] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention.

[0513] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a coil and wick assembly in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0514] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a further coil and wick assembly in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0515] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the coil and wick assembly of FIG. 4 as installed in a tank in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0516] FIG. 7 is illustrates a coil and wick assembly in accordance with each of the proposals of the present invention;

[0517] FIGS. 8a to 8f provide end views of a number different shaped bodies that may be utilised as solid additives in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0518] FIGS. 9a to 9f provides end views of a number different shaped bodies that may comprise cavities and be used as solid additives in accordance at least with the first proposal and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0519] FIG. 10a provides a perspective view of a V shaped body in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0520] FIG. 10b provides a perspective view of a ribbed body in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention.

[0521] FIG. 11 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a square cross-sectional shape and a cavity with open ends in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0522] FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a square cross-sectional shape wherein a plurality of cavities run the length of the body in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0523] FIG. 13 provides perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a square cross-sectional shape wherein a cavity runs along the length of the body, but the ends are sealed and multiple openings are provided to the cavity along the sides of the body in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0524] FIG. 14a provides a plan view of a solid additive in the form of an irregular shaped body in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0525] FIG. 14b provides perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a generally hexagonal cross-sectional shape wherein a cavity runs the length of the body and one side of the body is absent in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0526] FIG. 15 illustrates a solid additive in the form of a generally spherical body that comprises channels in its surface in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0527] FIG. 16 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a body with a generally square cross-sectional shape that comprises channels along its surface in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention;

[0528] FIGS. 17a, 17b and 17c illustrate a solid additives in the form of a generally spherical body in accordance with at least the first proposal of the present invention.

[0529] FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device containing a solid additives in the form of a plurality of generally ellipsoidal bodies at least in accordance at least with the first and fourth proposals of the present invention.

[0530] FIG. 19 shows a further cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device containing an alternative solid additives in the form of a plurality of generally spherical bodies in accordance at least with the first proposal of the present invention.

[0531] FIG. 20 shows a further cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device containing an alternative solid additives in the form of a plurality of larger generally spherical bodies in accordance at least with the first proposal of the present invention.

[0532] FIG. 21 provides a perspective view of a filter in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0533] FIG. 22 provides a side view of bottom end of a filter in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0534] FIG. 23 provides a plan view of the top end of a filter in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0535] FIG. 24 provides a plan view of a first gasket/seal in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0536] FIG. 25 provides a plan view of a second gasket/seal (an outlet gasket) in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0537] FIG. 26 provides a perspective view of an alternative filter in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0538] FIG. 27 provides a photograph of a filter in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0539] FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device comprising a filter in accordance at least with the second proposal of the present invention;

[0540] FIGS. 29 to 35 are cross-sectional views of various consumables showing alternative arrangements for a solid body additive that is retained in position within the tank in at least accordance with the third proposal of the present invention;

[0541] FIG. 36 provides a perspective view of a filter in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0542] FIG. 36a provides a perspective view of a second filter in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0543] FIG. 37 provides a perspective view of a filter comprising legs in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0544] FIG. 38 is an illustration of a filter in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0545] FIG. 39 is an illustration of a filter comprising legs in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0546] FIG. 40a is an illustration showing a perspective view of a tool used to insert filters into the tanks of consumables (a filter insertion tool) in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0547] FIG. 40b is an illustration showing a perspective view of a second end of the filter insertion tool engaged with a filter in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0548] FIG. 40c is an illustration showing a perspective view of a second end of the filter insertion tool engaged with a filter in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0549] FIG. 40d is an illustration showing a second perspective view of the second end of the filter insertion tool engaged with a filter in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0550] FIG. 41 is an illustration of a filter insertion tool engaged with a filter that is located within a tank of a consumable for containing vapourisable liquid in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0551] FIG. 42 is an illustration of a filter located within a tank of a consumable for containing vapourisable liquid in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0552] FIG. 43 provides a plan view of a first gasket/seal in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0553] FIG. 44 provides a plan view of a second gasket/seal (an outlet sealing means) in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0554] FIG. 45 provides a cross-sectional view along the length of a filter engagement arm of an insertion tool in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

[0555] FIG. 46 provides a cross-sectional view along the length of an outlet sealing arm of an insertion tool in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention; and,

[0556] FIG. 47 is an illustration of a tank of a consumable showing a filtered and unfiltered liquid, separated by a filter in accordance at least with the fifth proposal of the present invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND FURTHER OPTIONAL FEATURES

[0557] Proposals of the present invention, and their subsidiary aspects and embodiments, 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.

[0558] FIG. 1(a) shows an example smoking substitute device 110. In this example, the smoking substitute device 110 includes a main body 120 and a consumable 150. The consumable 150 may alternatively be referred to as a pod. The consumable may also be referred to as a cartridge or cartomizer.

[0559] In this example, the smoking substitute device 110 is a closed system vaping device, wherein the consumable 150 includes a sealed tank or liquid reservoir 156 and is intended for one-use only.

[0560] FIG. 1(a) shows the smoking substitute device 110 with the main body 120 physically coupled to the consumable 150.

[0561] FIG. 1(b) shows the main body 120 of the smoking substitute device 110 without the consumable 150.

[0562] FIG. 1(c) shows the consumable 150 of the smoking substitute device 110 without the main body 120.

[0563] The main body 120 and the consumable 150 are configured to be physically coupled together, in this example by pushing the consumable 150 into an aperture in a top end 122 of the main body 120. In other examples, the main body 120 and the consumable could be physically coupled together by screwing one onto the other, or through a bayonet fitting, for example. An optional light 126, e.g. an LED located behind a small translucent cover, is located a bottom end 124 of the main body 120. The light 126 may be configured to illuminate when the smoking substitute device 110 is activated.

[0564] The consumable 150 includes a mouthpiece (not shown) at a top end 152 of the consumable 150, as well as one or more air inlets (not shown in FIG. 2) so that air can be drawn into the smoking substitute device 110 when a user inhales through the mouthpiece. At a bottom end 154 of the consumable 150, there is located a tank 156 that contains e-liquid. The tank 156 may be a translucent body, for example.

[0565] The tank 156 preferably includes a window 158, so that the amount of e-liquid in the tank 156 can be visually assessed. The main body 120 includes a slot 128 so that the window 158 of the consumable 150 can be seen whilst the rest of the tank 156 is obscured from view when the consumable 150 is inserted into the aperture in the top end 122 of the main body 120.

[0566] The tank 156 may be referred to as a clearomizer if it includes a window 158, or more generally a cartomizer.

[0567] The consumable 150 may identify itself to the main body 120, via an electrical interface, RFID chip, or barcode.

[0568] Further features of the apparatus are shown in FIGS. 2 to 6 and described in more detail below.

[0569] Features of an example smoking substitute device will now be described in more detail.

[0570] FIG. 2(a) is a schematic view of the main body 120 of the smoking substitute device 110.

[0571] FIG. 2(b) is a schematic view of the consumable 150 of the smoking substitute device 110.

[0572] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the main body 120 includes a power source 140, a control unit 130, a memory 132, a wireless interface 134, an electrical interface 136, and, optionally, one or more additional components 138.

[0573] The power source 140 is preferably a battery, more preferably a rechargeable battery.

[0574] The control unit 130 may include a microprocessor, for example.

[0575] The memory 132 is preferably includes non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions which, when implemented, cause the control unit 130 to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.

[0576] The wireless interface 134 is preferably configured to communicate wirelessly with the mobile device 2, e.g. via Bluetooth. To this end, the wireless interface 134 could include a Bluetooth antenna. Other wireless communication interfaces, e.g. WiFi, are also possible. As discussed above, the wireless interface 134 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the remote server 2.

[0577] The electrical interface 136 of the main body 120 may include one or more electrical contacts. The electrical interface 136 may be located in, and preferably at the bottom of, the aperture in the top end 122 of the main body 120. When the main body 120 is physically coupled to the consumable 150, the electrical interface 136 may be configured to pass electrical power from the power source 140 to (e.g. a heating device of) the consumable 150 when the smoking substitute device 110 is activated, e.g. via the electrical interface 160 of the consumable 150 (discussed below). When the main body 120 is not physically coupled to the consumable 150, the electrical interface may be configured to receive power from the charging station 6. The electrical interface 136 may also be used to identify the consumable 150 from a list of known consumables. For example, the consumable may be a particular flavour and/or have a certain concentration of nicotine. This can be identified to the control unit 130 of the main body 120 when the consumable is connected to the main body. Additionally, or alternatively, there may be a separate communication interface provided in the main body 120 and a corresponding communication interface in the consumable 150 such that, when connected, the consumable can identify itself to the main body 120.

[0578] The additional components 138 of the main body 120 may include the optional light 126 discussed above.

[0579] The additional components 138 of the main body 120 may, if the power source 140 is a rechargeable battery, include a charging port configured to receive power from the charging station 6. This may be located at the bottom end 124 of the main body 120. Alternatively, the electrical interface 136 discussed above is configured to act as a charging port configured to receive power from the charging station 6 such that a separate charging port is not required.

[0580] The additional components 138 of the main body 120 may, if the power source 140 is a rechargeable battery, include a battery charging control circuit, for controlling the charging of the rechargeable battery. However, a battery charging control circuit could equally be located in the charging station 6 (if present).

[0581] The additional components 138 of the main body 120 may include an airflow sensor for detecting airflow in the smoking substitute device 110, e.g. caused by a user inhaling through a mouthpiece 166 (discussed below) of the smoking substitute device 110. The smoking substitute device 110 may be configured to be activated when airflow is detected by the airflow sensor. This optional sensor could alternatively be included in the consumable 150 (though this is less preferred where the consumable 150 is intended to be disposed of after use, as in this example). The airflow sensor can be used to determine, for example, how heavily a user draws on the mouthpiece or how many times a user draws on the mouthpiece in a particular time period.

[0582] The additional components 138 of the main body 120 may include an actuator, e.g. a button. The smoking substitute device 110 may be configured to be activated when the actuator is actuated. This provides an alternative to the airflow sensor noted, as a mechanism for activating the smoking substitute device 110.

[0583] As shown in FIG. 2(b), the consumable 150 includes the tank 156 for the liquid aerosol-forming substrate (e-liquid), an electrical interface 160, a heating device 162, one or more air inlets 164, a mouthpiece 166, and, optionally, one or more additional components 168.

[0584] The electrical interface 160 of the consumable 150 may include one or more electrical contacts. The electrical interface 136 of the main body 120 and an electrical interface 160 of the consumable 150 are preferably configured to contact each other and therefore electrically couple the main body 120 to the consumable 150 when the main body 120 is physically coupled to the consumable 150. In this way, electrical energy (e.g. in the form of an electrical current) is able to be supplied from the power source 140 in the main body 120 to the heating device 162 in the consumable 150.

[0585] The heating device 162 is preferably configured to heat e-liquid contained in the tank 156, e.g. using electrical energy supplied from the power source 140. In one example, the heating device 162 may include a heating filament and a wick, wherein a first portion of the wick extends into the tank 156 in order to draw e-liquid out from the tank 156, and wherein the heating filament coils around a second portion of the wick located outside the tank 156. In this example, the heating filament is configured to heat up e-liquid drawn out of the tank 156 by the wick to produce an aerosol vapour.

[0586] The one or more air inlets 164 are preferably configured to allow air to be drawn into the smoking substitute device 110, when a user inhales through the mouthpiece 166.

[0587] In use, a user activates the smoking substitute device 110, e.g. through actuating an actuator included in the main body 120 or by inhaling through the mouthpiece 166 as described above. Upon activation, the control unit 130 may supply electrical energy from the power source 140 to the heating device 162 (via electrical interfaces 136, 166), which may cause the heating device 162 to heat e-liquid drawn from the tank 156 to produce a vapour which is inhaled by a user through the mouthpiece 166.

[0588] As an example of one of the one or more additional components 168, an interface for obtaining an identifier of the consumable may be provided. As discussed above, this interface may be, for example, an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader, or an electronic interface which is able to identify the consumable to the main body. The consumable may, therefore 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 electronic interface in the main body.

[0589] Of course, a skilled reader would readily appreciate that the smoking substitute device 110 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 shows just one example implementation of a smoking substitute device, and that other forms of smoking substitute device could be used.

[0590] By way of example, an open system vaping device which includes a main body, a refillable tank, and a mouthpiece could be used, instead of the smoking substitute device 110. One such open system vaping device is the blu PRO e-cigarette discussed above.

[0591] As further example, an entirely disposable (one use) smoking substitute device could be used as the smoking substitute device.

[0592] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a consumable 150. Broadly, the consumable comprises a tank 156 within which is: a seal 400; heating device, in this example a coil and wick assembly 302; and an outlet 604. The outlet fluidly connects the coil and wick assembly 302 to the mouthpiece 166.

[0593] The tank is provided by an outer casing of the consumable. The coil and wick assembly 302 broadly comprises an outer shell with one or more apertures. These apertures are filled with a wick material, so that liquid may only ingress the coil and wick assembly from the tank via capillary action. The wick material passes through or proximal to a coil, which is connected to one or more electrical contacts. By providing an electrical current to the one or more contacts, the coil may be heated and so the liquid within the wick material vapourised. The coil and wick assembly 302 is connected to the air inlet 164 of the consumable, so that when the user draws on the mouthpiece 166, a flow of air passes from the air inlet through the coil and wick assembly thereby drawing with it vapourised liquid. This mixed flow of air and vapourised liquid then passes up the outlet 604, in this example a chimney or tube, before exiting the consumable 150 via mouthpiece 166. It is important then that liquid may only enter the coil and wick assembly via the one or more apertures and then, only via the wick.

[0594] A silicone seal 400 seals the coil and wick assembly 302 to the outlet 604, at a first end of the outlet 605. This seal ensures that liquid within the tank 156 cannot pass directly into the outlet 604. Instead, in use, vapourisable liquid is wicked into the coil and wick assembly by the wick, e.g. via capillary action, and vapourised by the coil within. Therefore the outlet 604 should only receive vapourised liquid.

[0595] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a coil and wick assembly 302. The coil and wick assembly may form the heater of any of the preceding consumables 150. The coil and wick assembly is disposed within the tank 156, at a bottom end thereof opposite to the mouthpiece 166. The coil and wick assembly is connected to the mouthpiece via an outlet, or chimney. The coil and wick assembly may form a lower wall of the tank, i.e. it may at least partially define the interior volume of the tank.

[0596] Broadly, the coil and wick assembly is formed from a housing 304, in which are first 305a and second 305b apertures or wick apertures. Within a cavity 310, provided by the housing, is a coil 306 e.g. coil of electrical wire, connected to first 308a and second 308b electrical contacts. These contacts are connectable to the battery of the main device 110, and so provide power to the coil.

[0597] An outlet aperture 309 is located proximal to the coil 306. When installed within the consumable, the outlet aperture is sealed from the liquid containing volume of the tank and is fluidly connected to an outlet. The outlet fluidly connects the cavity 310 of the coil and wick assembly to the mouthpiece. A wick 307 is provided through the coil, and through each of the first and second apertures. The wick acts to substantially seal the cavity 310 of the coil and wick assembly from free flowing liquid in the tank. Thus, liquid can only enter the cavity 310 by capillary action i.e. by being wicked in via the wick. The wick extends from the apertures, in a direction away from the electrical contacts to leave exposed regions 307a and 307b respectively.

[0598] The coil and wick assembly has an outlet aperture 309, which is positioned above the coil i.e. on an opposing side of the coil to the electrical contacts, in an uppermost surface of the coil and wick assembly. This outlet aperture is connected to the outlet discussed previously, which allows vapourised liquid to travel to the mouthpiece. The wick may have a length, as measured from one end to an opposing end, of more than 2 cm. For example, the wick may have a length of around 3 cm.

[0599] At a lower end of the consumable, i.e. one nearest the electrical contacts, is an air inlet 164. In use, the user draws on the mouthpiece which causes air to flow in through air inlet 164. This airflow draws with it vapourised liquid from the wick contained within the coil 306 (which is heated); and the airflow, now containing vapourised liquid, travels up an outlet and into the mouthpiece whereby it is inhaled. Whist the air inlet in this example is shown as a single air inlet disposed between the electrical contacts, instead there may be plural air inlets disposed between respective electrical contacts and an edge region of the coil and wick assembly. Further alternatively, there may be a single air inlet which extends across a width of the device thereby defining a channel. The channel may be bridged, across its width, by the first and second electrodes.

[0600] FIG. 5 shows a variant coil and wick assembly, where like reference numerals denote like features.

[0601] A notable difference between FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 is the inclusion of first 402a and second 402b clips, which are attached to a seal 400. The seal 400 seals an outlet (not shown) to the coil and wick assembly, so that vapourised liquid can pass there between. The first and second clips retain the exposed portions of wick in a position distal from the electrical contacts and proximal to the seal. For clarity, in FIG. 5 the outlet aperture 309 is omitted. However it will be appreciated that there is an outlet aperture present which allows the flow of vapourised liquid within the cavity 310 through a portion of the seal 400 and onwards to the outlet. Whilst the clip in this example is attached to the seal, it may be that the clip is attached to an upper region of the coil and wick assembly (i.e. between the aperture and the seal) or to a portion of the outlet. By varying the location of the clip, the consumable is able to accommodate a range of wick lengths.

[0602] The overall/general direction of the airflow through the device is indicated by the arrow on FIG. 6.

[0603] FIG. 6 shows the coil and wick assembly of FIG. 4, as installed in the consumable 150. As can be seen, the coil and wick assembly 302 forms a lower wall of the tank 156 and so at least partially defines the liquid containing volume thereof. The tank 156 in this example is filled with an aerosol-forming substrate in the form of a vapourisable liquid which contains a solid suspension. As a result, when the consumable 150 is orientated such that the mouthpiece is higher than the coil and wick assembly (as is the case in FIG. 6) solid tobacco-derived sediment 602 may accumulate around the coil and wick assembly. The portions of the wick 307a and 307b extend above where this sediment may accumulate, and so will generally be exposed to the liquid within the tank 156. As shown in the Figure, an outlet 604 is provided which is sealed to the coil and wick assembly via a seal (omitted for clarity). The Arrow indicates the air flow through the consumable.

[0604] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a coil and wick assembly similar to that shown in FIG. 5. Like features are denoted by like reference numerals.

[0605] The clip assembly can be more clearly seen in this view, with a main body 502 positioned around the seal 400. First 402a and second 402b clips extend from the main body on opposing sides of the coil and wick assembly 302.

[0606] As mentioned above there are problems associated with using solid materials to add or remove materials to a liquid aerosol-forming substrate (a vapourisable liquid) that is located in the tank of a consumable for a smoking substitute device. Such consumables normally comprise a vapourization means which is normally a heater. The heater is normally in the form of a coil and wick assembly. When solid materials are located in the consumable they may block the vapourization means (normally by blocking the wick).

Proposal 1

[0607] In the present invention according to the first proposal a solid additive in the form of one or more bodies is located within a tank of a consumable. The bodies sized (large in size) such that they cannot form a layer of material on a wick located within the tanks and thus cause the wick to become blocked/clogged.

[0608] FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device containing a solid additives in the form of a plurality of generally spherical bodies.

[0609] FIG. 20 shows a further cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device containing an alternative solid additives in the form of a plurality of larger generally spherical bodies.

[0610] In a first embodiment of the invention according to the first proposal it is preferable that the width, the length and the height (which in this case corresponds to the thickness, as the spheres are not hollow) of the one or more bodies, as generally indicated by 792, see FIG. 19, that comprise the solid additive, each exceeds (is greater than) 2 mm, i.e. the diameter of the generally spherical bodies exceeds 2 mm. These bodies are placed in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate located in a tank 156 of a consumable 150. Bodies of this size are unable to enter the space, as generally indicated by 791 (see FIG. 3) within the consumable 150 between the lower side walls of the tank 790a and the walls of the coil and wick assembly 162a, as illustrated in FIG. 19. Hence blocking of the wick by the bodies of the solid additive is prevented. Elongate bodies of the type discussed above and those bodies illustrated in FIGS. 8a to 8d, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14a, 14, 15 and 16 are all suitable for use in respect of this embodiment of the first proposal of the invention when their widths, lengths and heights (or thicknesses in the case of bodies that are not hollow) each exceed 2 mm.

[0611] The solid bodies 792 are manufactured using the manufacturing means discussed above.

[0612] In a second embodiment of the invention according to the first proposal the width, length and height, of the solid bodies each exceeds (is greater than) 5 mm, i.e. the diameter of the generally spherical bodies exceeds 5 mm. These bodies are placed in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate located in a tank 156 of a consumable 150. Solid bodies of this size are unable to enter the space, as generally indicated by 793, within the consumable 150 between the side walls of the tank 790 and the coil and wick assembly. In this way any contact between the wick and the solid additive is prevented. Elongate bodies of the type shown in FIGS. 8a to 8d, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14a, 14, 15 and 16 are suitable in respect of this embodiment of the first proposal of the invention, when their widths, lengths and heights (or thicknesses in the case of bodies that are not hollow) each exceed 5 mm.

[0613] FIG. 8 provides views of the ends of a number different shaped bodies that may be utilised as solid additives in accordance with the first proposal of the present invention. The bodies shown in FIG. 8 are viewed directly from one end of the bodies (end-on) and have the same uniform shape along their length.

[0614] The one or more bodies of the solid additive may comprise one or more cavities through which said liquid may flow and/or are shaped to form interstitial spaces through which said liquid may flow. In this way, such blocking of the flow of liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the consumable by said solid additive is prevented.

[0615] FIG. 9 provides views of the ends of a number of further shaped bodies that comprise cavities (759, in the form of lumens). The cavities 759 have a uniform diameter along their length, i.e. the bodies illustrated comprise the same shape along the length of their body when viewed in cross-section. These shaped bodies may be used as solid additives in accordance with the first proposal of the present invention.

[0616] FIGS. 8a to 8f provide end views of a number different shaped bodies that may be utilised as solid additives, in accordance with the first proposal of the present invention.

[0617] FIGS. 9a to 9f provides end views of a number different shaped bodies that may comprise cavities and be used as solid additives, in accordance with the first proposal of the present invention.

[0618] For the planar body indicated in FIG. 8a the wall thickness of the body is represented by a, and the thickness and height of the body correspond. The skilled person will appreciate that for bodies that comprise no cavity the thickness of the bodies will correspond to their height. For the bodies illustrated in FIGS. 8b to 8f, and the bodies illustrated in FIG. 9 the height of the bodies is represented by b.

[0619] End views of a number different shaped bodies that comprise cavities (759, in the form of lumens) of a uniform diameter along their length are illustrated in FIG. 9, i.e. the bodies illustrated comprise the same shape along the length of their body when viewed in cross-section.

[0620] The widths of the bodies are represented by c on FIGS. 8, 9, 10a and 10b.

[0621] The length of the bodies illustrated in FIGS. 10a and 10b are represented by d.

[0622] The skilled person will appreciate that the one or more bodies of the solid additives may comprise a wide range of shapes, including but not limited to the shapes mentioned herein. The bodies are preferably elongate in nature having cross-sectional profiles that include, but are not limited to: planar (see FIG. 8a), generally V (see FIG. 8b) or W shaped, generally S (see FIG. 8C), or M shaped, generally U shaped (see FIG. 8C), generally N shaped (see FIG. 8f), angular (see FIG. 8d), generally semi-circular (see FIG. 8e), curved, convex, concave, wave shaped, castellated, or branched. Bodies of these particular shapes tend to pack such that interstitial spaces are formed between adjacent bodies. Spherical, spheroidal and ellipsoidal shaped bodies are also preferred shapes for the bodies. Similarly interstitial spaces are formed between bodies of these shapes. The formation of interstitial spaces is advantageous as it facilitates the passage of the vapourisable between the bodies of a solid additive when a plurality of bodies are present Additionally, the shapes detailed above may comprise cavities along their length d, see FIGS. 10a and 10 b below, or as cavities in the form of perforations that pass through the plane of the body of the shapes concerned, see FIGS. 10a and 10 b below.

[0623] Solid additives comprising bodies with cavities (more preferably lumens) are preferably provided in the form of elongate-polygons having cross-sectional shapes that are, for instance, triangular, rectangular (see FIG. 9b), square (see FIG. 9b), circular (see FIG. 9C), ovoid (see FIG. 9d), star shaped (see FIG. 9f), or comprise bodies have multiple sides such as pentagons, hexagons (see FIG. 9e), heptagons, octagons, nonagons; irregular, angular, semi-circular, curved, convex, concave, wave shaped, castellated, branched, spherical, spheroidal and ellipsoidal shaped bodies that comprise cavities may also be used.

[0624] The use of bodies comprising lumen(s) (as the cavity) is preferred, i.e. hollow tubes that are open at both ends and that preferably run the length of an elongate body. Lumens of this type have the advantage that they provide for an efficient flow of liquid through the elongate body as there is less resistance to the flow of liquid.

[0625] FIG. 10a provides a perspective view of an elongate V shaped body that may be used as a solid additive. The body 750 has a V shape when viewed end on (or in cross-section across the width of the body) and is of a uniform thickness along its length. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the other shaped bodies, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, similarly extend longitudinally away (have a length d) from the ends of the bodies that are illustrated shown. The V shaped body in FIG. 10a also comprises a width c, a height b, and a length d.

[0626] FIG. 10b provides a perspective view of a ribbed body. The ribbed body 750 when viewed from its end comprises a series of V shaped bodies that are joined together along their length to provide a generally planar structure comprising ribs 755. The body illustrated 750 further comprises cavities perforations (cavities) 756 which further facilitate the passage of vapourisable liquid through the body. The body illustrated in FIG. 10a also comprises a width c, a height b and a length d.

[0627] FIG. 11 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a square cross-sectional shape and open ends. The body comprises four walls 752 that form a square shaped body 750, when the body is viewed end on. The open ends of the body form apertures, one of which is generally indicated by 751, to the interior of the body 750. A corresponding aperture, not shown, is provided at the opposite end of the body 750.

[0628] FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body 750 comprising a square cross-sectional shape wherein a plurality of cavities (four cavities) run the length of the body. The four cavities terminate in four apertures 751 that are visible at one end of the body 750, as shown in FIG. 12. The opposite end of the body 750 comprises four corresponding apertures that are not visible. The use of multiple cavities assists the passage of liquid through wider bodies whilst still facilitating the solubilisation of additives located within the solid body 750, i.e. the solubilisation of additives is facilitated by minimising the distance to the midpoint of the side walls from the faces of the cavity 757, and of the exterior walls 758 of the body 750 to the midpoint(s) of the body located farthest from said walls.

[0629] FIG. 13 provides perspective view of a hollow body comprising a square cross-sectional shape wherein a cavity runs the length of the body, and multiple openings (apertures) to the cavity are provided, but wherein the ends of the cavity are sealed. Multiple openings (apertures) 751 are provided to the cavity along the exterior walls 758 of the body 750. The hollow body 750 shown in FIG. 13 comprises a square shaped cross-section and a cavity (not visible) that runs the length of the body 750. Multiple openings (apertures) 751 to the cavity are provided along the exterior walls 758 of the body 750. Solid additives in the form of bodies that comprise one or more openings along their length may have closed ends, as illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0630] FIG. 14a provides a plan view of a solid additive in the form of an irregular shaped body 750. The irregular shaped body 750 comprises a plurality of interconnected openings (apertures) 751 that pass thorough said body 750 to form cavities. The cavities provided may comprise two apertures connected to each other to form a single tube or multiple apertures may be connected together to form a series of interconnected tubes.

[0631] The bodies used may comprise the general polygonal shapes as discussed above, but wherein one of the sides of the body are missing.

[0632] FIG. 14b provides perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a generally hexagonal cross-sectional shape wherein a cavity runs the length of the body and one side of the body is absent. The missing side of the body enables the cavity, as generally indicated by 759, to be seen. The cavity 759 runs along the length of the body 750. The omission of a side of the body further facilitates the passage of liquid into, through and out of the body 750.

[0633] As mentioned above the skilled person will appreciate that a wide range of shapes of bodies, beyond those mentioned above may be employed in the first proposal of the present invention.

[0634] Any of the previously mentioned shapes of bodies detailed above may further comprise one or more channels/recesses in their outermost (or inner) surface.

[0635] FIG. 15 illustrates a solid additive in the form of a generally spherical body that comprises channels in its surface. The generally spherical body 750 comprises a series of channels 753 located in the surface of the body. These channels 753 facilitate the flow of liquid aerosol-forming substrate around the body 750 and thus effectively form additional interstitial space between adjacent bodies. Spherical, spheroidal and ellipsoidal bodies may be used to provide solid additives in the form of pellets. The surfaces of these bodies may further comprise channels, not shown. The use of such channels is particularly preferred when the bodies used are spherical in shape and do not comprise cavities; as spherical bodies have a tendency to pack more closely than spheroidal or ellipsoidal shaped bodies.

[0636] FIG. 16 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a body with a generally square cross-sectional shape that comprises channels along its surface. The hollow body 750 shown in FIG. 16 comprises a square shaped cross-section and has four channels 753 located in the exterior side walls 758 of said body. Each of the channels 753 runs the length of an elongate face of the body 750.

[0637] FIGS. 17a,b and c provides perspective views of a solid additive 750 which may be in the form of a generally spherical body (in the case where axes x, y, and z have equal lengths) or an ellipsoid shape (in which axes are of different lengths).

[0638] FIG. 18 illustrate a consumable containing a coil and wick assembly 302 and solid additives 750 which can move within liquid 754 but are of a sufficient size that they do not block passage of liquid to the wick.

[0639] In use the solid additive is located in the tank 156 of a consumable 150 containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate (vapourisable liquid). In this way the solid additive may add to and/or remove materials from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0640] The solid additive may be totally soluble in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and may contain one or more materials that is/are to be added to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid additive may also comprise one or more components that are insoluble in the liquid. If the solid additive is totally soluble then it is preferable that the outermost portion of the additive comprises a material that dissolves more slowly than the inner portion of the additive.

[0641] The solid additive may add one or more components (materials) chosen from a flavourant, a flavour enhancer, nicotine, a catalyst, additional chemicals, and/or may provide means to remove chemicals from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0642] The additional chemicals that may be added using a solid additive include chemicals for providing colour and/or odour to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0643] The solid additive can also act as a non-reactive agitator (for example in the case of shake-to-activate consumables). In other embodiments of the invention of the first proposal the solid additive may be: [0644] solublesuch that it will fully solubilise into the liquid aerosol-forming substrate; and/or, [0645] replaceablesuch that something dissolves into the liquid and something is removed from the liquid; and/or, [0646] permanentsuch that the additive will stay in the tank (reservoir) for the life of the reservoir.

[0647] The presence of solid tobacco-derived material in a consumable for a vaping smoking substitute device which employs a wick often causes problems in terms of clogging of the wick. Hence by incorporating the solid tobacco derived material into one or more bodies of a solid additive such problems are prevented or at least significantly alleviated. FIGS. 4 to 7 of the accompanying drawings illustrate some modifications to a vaping smoking substitute device that have been used as an alternative means to alleviate such difficulties-such modifications may be used in addition to the use of the solid additives disclosed herein.

[0648] While the first proposal of the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the first proposal of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the first proposal of the invention.

Proposal 2

[0649] Proposal 2, which presents a further solution to the problem of solid material in a consumable clogging the wick is provided below.

[0650] FIG. 21 provides a perspective view of a filter as generally indicated by 701, in accordance with the second proposal of the present invention. The filter has a body 702 which incorporates two filter membrane apertures, 713 (one of which is visible on FIG. 21, the second filter membrane being located on the opposing side of the filter) that are sized to receive filter membrane 703.

[0651] The first end of the filter 704 has an opening as generally indicated by 705, the interior of the opening comprises a shape corresponding to the shape of the heating device (vapourization means) of a consumable 150, i.e. the opening is shaped to receive (and enclose) a vapourization means. In the present case the vapourization means is provided as a heating device in the form of a coil and wick assembly.

[0652] FIG. 22 provides a plan view of the first end (bottom end) 704 of the filter. FIG. 23 provides a plan view of the second end (top end) 708 of a filter.

[0653] Referring now to FIGS. 22 and 23 it can be seen that the interior walls 706 of the body 702 adjacent the opening 705 are shaped to enclose a coil and wick assembly (the heating device).

[0654] FIG. 24 provide a side view of a first gasket (first seal) 711 which may be located around the side walls 707 at the first end of the body 704, i.e. the walls 707 at the first end of the body 704 that are adjacent, in use, to the heating device. Such a gasket 711, may be used to ensure a tight seal is formed between the filter body 702 and the interior reservoir wall of the tank 156 that retains the liquid to be vapourised, i.e. the gasket 711 ensures that no liquid passes between the walls of the tank 156 and the body of the filter 702. Although, such a gasket may not be required if a tight fit (an interference fit) is formed between the walls of the tank and the body of the filter, as illustrated in FIG. 28see below.

[0655] The second end, as generally indicated by 708, of the filter 701, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 23, comprises a second opening 709 that is sized to receive the outlet 604 of a consumable 150. A plan view of a second gasket (second seal), 712 is shown in FIG. 25. This second gasket may be used to ensure that a tight seal is formed between the interior of the second opening 709 and the outlet 604, i.e. the second gasket may act an outlet sealing means. Although, the use of a second gasket may not be required if the filter is manufactured such that the second opening forms a tight fit around the outlet, as illustrated in FIG. 28see below.

[0656] FIG. 26 shows an alternative embodiment of a filter in accordance with the second proposal of the present invention wherein the filter body generally corresponds to the first embodiment, but wherein no filter membrane is provided. In this second embodiment of the second proposal of the present invention a plurality of pores 710 are provided in the filter body 702 as an alternative to a filter membrane, thus the parts of the body comprising the pores provide a filter face/filtration means. In this way the manufacture of the filter may be simplified and the manufacturing costs reduced.

[0657] In use the filter 701 is located such that it encloses the coil and wick assembly. A first gasket 711 may be used to ensure that vapourisable liquid containing solid, in the tank cannot pass between the wall of the tank 156 and the body of the filter 702. A second gasket may be used to prevent the vapourisable liquid from passing between the outlet and the second aperture. In this way the vapourisable liquid in the tank passes through the filter membrane 703, or through pores 710 provided in the filter body 702, to the coil and wick assembly 162. However, any solid material in the tank 156 is retained therein (in a first zone of the tank, as generally indicated by 730 in FIG. 28) by the filter 701 and so is prevented from blocking the wick (located in a second zone of the tank, as generally indicated by 732 in FIG. 28) or contacting the coil.

[0658] FIG. 27 provides a photograph of a filter 701 in accordance with the second proposal of the present invention that corresponds generally to the filter illustrated in FIG. 21. The filter comprises a body 702 and a filter membrane 703 located within an aperture 713. A recessed portion may be provided around the aperture 713 into which the filter membrane 703 is affixed by use of adhesive or other known means.

[0659] FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view of a consumable of the smoking substitute device comprising a filter. The consumable comprises a filter 701 of the type illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 27. It can be seen from FIG. 28 that the walls of the filter at the first end of the body 707 form a tight seal with the walls of the tank 790 such that no additional seal is required. Similarly the body of filter 701 forms a tight seal with the outlet 604 such that no additional seal is required.

[0660] The direction of the flow of liquid through the filter membrane 703 of the filter 701 is indicated by the arrows A on FIGS. 21 and 28; the direction of the flow of liquid through the walls of the filter (via the apertures 710) in FIG. 26, are also indicated by arrows A. The direction indicated by the arrows A is perpendicular to the direction of flow of air through the consumable as indicated by the arrows 606 and 608 (as shown in FIG. 6). The skilled addressee will appreciate that direction of the flow of liquid through the filter membrane of the filter as indicated by the arrows A is also substantially perpendicular to the direction of settlement of the solid material in the consumable under gravity. In use, a mixture of solid material and vapourisable liquid 755 are located in a first zone 730 within the tank. The filtered liquid 726, from which solid material has been removed, is located in a second zone 732 within the tank 156. The first zone 730 and the second zone 732 are separated by a filter 701 through which liquid passes in the direction of arrow A.

[0661] The skilled addressee will further appreciate that the face of the filter membrane (or the walls of the filter), through which the liquid passes, is positioned parallel to the direction of the airflow through the consumable.

[0662] To install the filter in a consumable 150, the tank 156 is filled to a predetermined level with a vapourisable liquid. The liquid may contain solid material or it may be the case that over time solid material will be deposited from the liquid, and this solid needs to be removed from the liquid prior to its vapourization. The filter 701 is then inserted into the tank and may be retained in place by an interference fit formed between the walls of the tank and the filter, the interference fit being tight enough to prevent the passage of solid material around the sides of the filter. A vapourization means that form the bottom wall of the tank is then inserted into place.

[0663] The filter may be inserted into the tank as part of a filtering assembly that comprises the filter 701 and the vapourization means (in this case a coil and wick assembly 302). The filter 701 may be connected to the vapourization means by use of an interlocking mechanism (such as a snap-fit) that is formed between the two components. Alternatively an adhesive may be used to connect the two components. The interlocking mechanism preferably provides a tight seal between the vapourization means and the filter such that no separate seal is required to prevent solid material passing around the filter and into the vapourization means.

[0664] In respect of the filter 701 illustrated in FIG. 28 a settlement space, as generally indicated by 728, is provided between the vertical section of the side wall 729 of the filter 701, and the side wall of the tank 790. This space 728 receives the solid material that settles out from the vapourisable liquid under gravity. In this way any solid material that settles in the settlement space 728 of the tank 156 does not obstruct the filter membrane 703, this can be advantageous when the settled solid has a tendency to form a solid mass.

[0665] In respect of most filters, it is preferable that the filter is arranged such that substantially all of the vapourisable liquid containing solid material, in a tank, may be filtered and removed from the tank. This may be achieved by the use of filter membrane or filter area(s) (area(s) comprising apertures located in a filter body that form a filter face/filtration means), that removes solid material from the vapourisable liquid, extending to as low a position as possible within the tank. The filter membrane(s) or filter area(s), preferably extend to such an extent that no unfiltered liquid is retained between the walls of the tank and the walls of the filter. In this way all of the vapourisable liquid located in the tank may be used without the outlet of the tank (the wick) becoming blocked.

[0666] The filter 701 illustrated in FIG. 28 is particularly suited for use with the type of elongate wicks (307a, 307b, fluid transport means) described above, and as illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6. This is because a filter membrane 703 is provided in close proximity to each of the elongate wicks (307a, 307b) and this arrangement facilitates the rapid filtration of solid from a vapourisable liquid, such that the filtered vapourisable liquid is freely available to each of the wicks.

[0667] The filters disclosed above provide a means by which solid materials may be added to a vapourisable liquid located in the tank of a consumable, but wherein the solid may be removed from the liquid prior to the liquid reaching the wick and/or the vapourization means.

[0668] While the second proposal of the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the second proposal of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting.

[0669] Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the second proposal of the invention. For example the filter may be manufactured entirely from a filter membrane, such as a wire mesh or a ceramic material.

[0670] As previously mentioned, the filter may be retained in a fixed position by the provision of a seal located around the ends of the side walls 707 of the filter body 702. Adhesive may be utilised to retain the position of a seal or seals on a filter; the seal being used to prevent the passage of vapourisable liquid between the ends of the side walls 707 of the filter body 702 and the interior walls (the side walls 790) of the tank 156. Similarly adhesive may be used to retain a seal on a filter body that prevents the passage of vapourisable liquid between the side walls of the opening in the filter aperture 709 and the outlet 605.

[0671] Alternatively the lower face 721 of the filter body 702 may be attached to the base of the tank that is provided in the form of a heater assembly by the use of adhesive or other fixing means.

Proposal 3

[0672] In the third proposal of the present invention a solid additive is provided in the form of a body that is adapted to engage with engagement means located in the tank to retain the additive in position within the tank. As a result the solid additive does not move freely within the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and the potential for blocking of the wick is reduced.

[0673] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a consumable illustrating a solid additive body 750a located around the outlet/chimney 604. The solid additive comprises a body 750a in the form of a tobacco extrusion provided with a cavity having a shape and internal dimensions which are a close match to the shape and external dimensions of the outlet 604 such that there is an interference fit between the outlet 604 and the additive body 750a to retain the additive in position within the tank. The solid additive 750a is in contact with liquid components 764 in the aerosol-forming substrate such that the additive can modify the chemical and/or physical characteristics of the liquid components. The solid additive body may allow some passage of liquid components therethrough (for example by the provision of pores/channels), but the body cannot move freely within the tank and therefore does not block passage of liquid to the wick.

[0674] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of another example consumable illustrating a solid additive body 750b that is an interference fit with internal tank side walls 790 to retain the body in position in the tank. The body 750b is also provided with a cavity which is an interference fit with the outlet 604.

[0675] Such arrangements for retaining a solid additive in place in a consumable are useful as they need not require modification of the tank walls or outlet in order to provide engagement means to engage with the solid additive, provided that the size and shape of the additive is appropriately selected to be an interference fit in the tank. Alternatively, surface formations may be provided on the tank walls, or other components in the consumable, such as a seal, outlet/chimney or refilling port for the tank. Surface formations may take the form of male/male, female/female or male/female connections.

[0676] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of another example consumable illustrating a solid additive 750c that is engaged with a refilling port 770 of a tank. In this illustration, the tobacco extrusion includes a recess that is configured for engaging with a protrusion at the refilling port.

[0677] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of another example consumable illustrating a solid additive body 750d that is an interference fit on a sealing element 400. In a similar arrangement a solid body could be arranged as an interference fit on a coil and wick assembly.

[0678] FIG. 33 is a plan view of an extruded solid body 750e that engages with surface formations 795 provided in a side wall of the tank. This is an example of a modification made to a tank side wall in order to provide the engagement means to engage and retain the solid body 750e. Such an arrangement is suitable for use with a solid body having a more complicated profile than that illustrated above. This permits for more complicated surface profiles which could be useful for increasing the surface area of the solid additive body in contact with the liquid components.

[0679] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of further example consumable illustrating a solid additive body 750f that is retained by engagement means provided by multiple components in the consumable, including the refilling port 770 and seal 400. Thus, a recess 761 is provided at one end of the solid additive body to engage with refilling port 770. At the other end of 750f a projection 762 is provided to engage in a corresponding recess 405 in the seal 400. Such an arrangement may be useful for more firmly securing the solid additive in position in the tank.

[0680] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of a further example consumable illustrating a solid additive 750g that is sized appropriately to be retained in position between the tank wall 790, the outlet 604 and seal 400 to restrict movement of the solid body additive and prevent it from contacting the wick. Thus, this illustrates that the engagement means can provide three or more points of contact between components of the consumable and the solid additive body. This can be beneficial to more rigidly hold the solid additive body in position in the tank and to reduce the likelihood of the additive body being displaced or dislodged during transit or use, for example.

[0681] The liquid component of the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more aerosol formers, optionally together with flavourings.

[0682] Preferably the liquid component of the aerosol-forming substrate includes at least polypropylene glycol and glycerine. Such combinations have been found to be advantageous in order to achieve good dispersion of solid material throughout the liquid component, together with a liquid component having a density which is less likely to result in leakages from the consumable.

[0683] In preferred embodiments of the third proposal of the present invention the liquid component comprises propylene glycol and glycerine in a ratio within the range of 10:90 to 90:10 by volume, preferably 20:80 to 80:20, more preferably 25:75 to 75:25, more preferably 30:70 to 70:30, and most preferably 40:60 to 60:40 by volume. Preferably the liquid component comprises propylene glycol and glycerine in a ratio within the range of 10:90 to 90:10 by weight, preferably 20:80 to 80:20, more preferably 25:75 to 75:25, more preferably 30:70 to 70:30, and most preferably 40:60 to 60:40 by weight.

[0684] The liquid component may optionally contain water or it may be essentially free of water. In cases where water is included, it is preferred that the substrate contains 0.1 to 10%, preferably 0.1 to 7%, more preferably up to 6%, further preferably up to 5%, more preferably up to 4% and especially up to 3% water, by volume and/or by weight. Water may be introduced as part of a flavouring component.

[0685] Particularly preferred aerosol-forming substrates contain up to 70% by weight, more preferably up to 65% and especially up to 60% by weight of propylene glycol. Preferably the substrates contain at least 25% and more preferably at least 30% by weight of propylene glycol. Particularly preferred aerosol-forming substrates contain up to 70% by weight, more preferably up to 65% and especially up to 60% by weight of glycerine. Preferably the substrates contain at least 25% and more preferably at least 30% by weight of glycerine. Preferably a glycerine component is vegetable glycerine.

[0686] A tobacco-derived material incorporated into one or more bodies can take various forms. It may optionally be in the form of tobacco leaf, tobacco stem, tobacco powder and tobacco dust, for example. The tobacco-derived material may be treated to various process conditions prior to being combined with base liquids. For example it may be washed and dehydrated, optionally by freeze drying.

[0687] It is advantageous to select tobacco-derived material from a tobacco plant which has a naturally occurring high nicotine level in order to produce a liquid aerosol-forming substrate which has an effective concentration of nicotine. Preferably the liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises a tobacco-infused liquid which contains solid tobacco-derived material obtained from a tobacco plant having a nicotine content of at least 3% by weight, especially 3.5% or 4% by weight, preferably at least 4.5%, more preferably at least 5% by weight, still more preferably at least 5.5% by weight and most preferably at least 6% by weight. Conveniently the tobacco plant may have a nicotine content of up to 8 wt %, especially up to 7.5 wt %.

[0688] While the third proposal of the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the third proposal of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the third proposal of the invention.

Proposal 4

[0689] In the fourth proposal of the present invention a solid material is located within a tank of a consumable, but said solid material is provided in the form of one or more bodies that comprise one or more cavities through which said liquid may flow and/or are shaped to form interstitial spaces through which said liquid may flow. In this way, blocking of the flow of liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the consumable by said solid additive is prevented.

[0690] FIG. 8 provides views of the ends of a number different shaped bodies that may be utilised as solid additives in accordance with the fourth proposal of the present invention. The bodies shown in FIG. 8 are viewed directly from one end of the bodies (end-on) and have the same uniform shape along their length.

[0691] FIG. 9 provides views of the ends of a number of further shaped bodies that comprise cavities (759, in the form of lumens). The cavities 759 have a uniform diameter along their length, i.e. the bodies illustrated comprise the same shape along the length of their body when viewed in cross-section. These shaped bodies may be used as solid additives in accordance with the fourth proposal of the present invention.

[0692] FIGS. 8a to 8e provide end views of a number different shaped bodies that may be utilised as solid additives, in accordance with the fourth proposal of the present invention.

[0693] FIGS. 9a to 9f provides end views of a number different shaped bodies that may comprise cavities and be used as solid additives, in accordance with the fourth proposal of the present invention.

[0694] For the planar body indicated in FIG. 36a the wall thickness of the body is represented by a, and the thickness and height of the body correspond. The skilled person will appreciate that for bodies that comprise no cavity the thickness of the bodies will correspond to their height. For the bodies illustrated in FIGS. 8b to 8e, and the bodies illustrated in FIG. 9 the height of the bodies is represented by b.

[0695] End views of a number different shaped bodies that comprise cavities (759, in the form of lumens) of a uniform diameter along their length are illustrated in FIG. 9, i.e. the bodies illustrated comprise the same shape along the length of their body when viewed in cross-section.

[0696] The widths of the bodies are represented by c on FIGS. 8, 9, 10a and 10b.

[0697] The length of the bodies illustrated in FIGS. 10a and 10b are represented by d.

[0698] The skilled person will appreciate that the one or more bodies of the solid additives used to form interstitial spaces may comprise a wide range of shapes, including but not limited to the shapes mentioned herein. The bodies may preferably be elongate in nature having cross-sectional profiles that include, but are not limited to: planar (see FIG. 8a), generally V (see FIG. 8b) or W shaped, generally S (see FIG. 8C), or M shaped, generally U shaped (see FIG. 8C), generally N shaped (see FIG. 8e), angular (see FIG. 8d), generally semi-circular (see FIG. 8e), curved, convex, concave, wave shaped, castellated, or branched. Bodies of these particular shapes tend to pack such that interstitial spaces are formed between adjacent bodies. Spherical, spheroidal and ellipsoidal shaped bodies are also preferred shapes for the bodies. Similarly interstitial spaces are formed between bodies of these shapes. Additionally, the shapes detailed above may comprise cavities along their length d, see FIGS. 10a and 10 b below, or as cavities in the form of perforations that pass through the plane of the body of the shapes concerned, see FIGS. 10a and 10 b below.

[0699] Solid additives comprising bodies with cavities (more preferably lumens) are preferably provided in the form of elongate-polygons having cross-sectional shapes that are, for instance, triangular, rectangular (see FIG. 9b), square (see FIG. 9b), circular (see FIG. 9C), ovoid (see FIG. 9d), star shaped (see FIG. 9f), or comprise bodies have multiple sides such as pentagons, hexagons (see FIG. 9e), heptagons, octagons, nonagons; irregular, angular, semi-circular, curved, convex, concave, wave shaped, castellated, branched, spherical, spheroidal and ellipsoidal shaped bodies that comprise cavities may also be used.

[0700] The use of bodies comprising lumen(s) (as the cavity) is preferred, i.e. hollow tubes that are open at both ends and that preferably run the length of an elongate body. Lumens of this type have the advantage that they provide for an efficient flow of liquid through the elongate body as there is less resistance to the flow of liquid.

[0701] FIG. 10a provides a perspective view of an elongate V shaped body that may be used as a solid additive. The body 750 has a V shape when viewed end on (or in cross-section across the width of the body) and is of a uniform thickness along its length. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the other shaped bodies, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, similarly extend longitudinally away (have a length d) from the ends of the bodies that are illustrated shown. The V shaped body in FIG. 10a also comprises a width c, a height b, and a length d.

[0702] FIG. 10b provides a perspective view of a ribbed body. The ribbed body 750 when viewed from its end comprises a series of V shaped bodies that are joined together along their length to provide a generally planar structure comprising ribs 755. The body illustrated 750 further comprises cavities perforations (cavities) 756 which further facilitate the passage of vapourisable liquid through the body. The body illustrated in FIG. 10a also comprises a width c, a height b and a length d.

[0703] FIG. 11 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a square cross-sectional shape and open ends. The body comprises four walls 752 that form a square shaped body 750, when the body is viewed end on. The open ends of the body form apertures, one of which is generally indicated by 751, to the interior of the body 750. A corresponding aperture, not shown, is provided at the opposite end of the body 750.

[0704] FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body 750 comprising a square cross-sectional shape wherein a plurality of cavities (four cavities) run the length of the body. The four cavities terminate in four apertures 751 that are visible at one end of the body 750, as shown in FIG. 12. The opposite end of the body 750 comprises four corresponding apertures that are not visible. The use of multiple cavities assists the passage of liquid through wider bodies whilst still facilitating the solubilisation of additives located within the solid body 750; the solubilisation of additives is facilitated by minimising the distance to the midpoint of the side walls from the faces of the cavity 757, and from the faces of the exterior walls 758 of the body 750, to the midpoint(s) of the walls of the body.

[0705] FIG. 13 provides perspective view of a hollow body comprising a square cross-sectional shape wherein a cavity runs the length of the body, and multiple openings (apertures) to the cavity are provided, but wherein the ends of the cavity are sealed. Multiple openings (apertures) 751 are provided to the cavity along the exterior walls 758 of the body 750. The hollow body 750 shown in FIG. 13 comprises a square shaped cross-section and a cavity (not visible) that runs the length of the body 750. Multiple openings (apertures) 751 to the cavity are provided along the exterior walls 758 of the body 750. Solid additives in the form of bodies that comprise one or more openings along their length may have closed ends, as illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0706] FIG. 14a provides a plan view of a solid additive in the form of an irregular shaped body 750. The irregular shaped body 750 comprises a plurality of interconnected openings (apertures) 751 that pass thorough said body 750 to form cavities. The cavities provided may comprise two apertures connected to each other to form a single tube or multiple apertures may be connected together to form a series of interconnected tubes.

[0707] The bodies used may comprise the general polygonal shapes as discussed above, but wherein one of the sides of the body are missing.

[0708] FIG. 14b provides perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a hollow body comprising a generally hexagonal cross-sectional shape wherein a cavity runs the length of the body and one side of the body is absent. The missing side of the body enables the cavity, as generally indicated by 759, to be seen. The cavity 759 runs along the length of the body 750. The omission of a side of the body further facilitates the passage of liquid into, through and out of the body 750.

[0709] As mentioned above the skilled person will appreciate that a wide range of shapes of bodies, beyond those mentioned above may be employed in the fourth proposal of the present invention.

[0710] Any of the previously mentioned shapes of bodies detailed above may further comprise one or more channels/recesses in their outermost (or inner) surface.

[0711] FIG. 15 illustrates a solid additive in the form of a generally spherical body that comprises channels in its surface. The generally spherical body 750 comprises a series of channels 753 located in the surface of the body. These channels 753 facilitate the flow of liquid aerosol-forming substrate around the body 750 and thus effectively form additional interstitial space between adjacent bodies. Spherical, spheroidal and ellipsoidal bodies may be used to provide solid additives in the form of pellets. The surfaces of these bodies may further comprise channels, not shown. The use of such channels is particularly preferred when the bodies used are spherical in shape and do not comprise cavities; as spherical bodies have a tendency to pack more closely than spheroidal or ellipsoidal shaped bodies.

[0712] FIG. 16 provides a perspective view of a solid additive in the form of a body with a generally square cross-sectional shape that comprises channels along its surface. The hollow body 750 shown in FIG. 16 comprises a square shaped cross-section and has four channels 753 located in the exterior side walls 758 of said body. Each of the channels 753 runs the length of an elongate face of the body 750.

[0713] FIG. 17 illustrate solid bodies which may be spherical (when axes x, y and z are equal) or ellipsoidal if the axes are different. Ridges are provided on the surfaces of the solid bodies. FIG. 18 illustrates bodies 750 in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 754 in a tank 156. The solid bodies are provided with cavities to permit flow of liquid 754 to the coil and wick assembly 302.

[0714] In use the solid additive is located in the tank 156 of a consumable 150 containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate (vapourisable liquid). In this way the solid additive may add and/or remove materials from/to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid additive may be totally soluble in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and may contain one or more materials that is/are to be added to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid additive may also comprise one or more components that are insoluble in the liquid.

[0715] The solid additive may add one or more components (materials) chosen from a flavourant, a flavour enhancer, nicotine, a catalyst, additional chemicals, and/or may provide means to remove chemicals from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 754.

[0716] The additional chemicals that may be added using a solid additive include chemicals for providing colour and/or odour to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0717] The solid additive can also act as a non-reactive agitator (for example in the case of shake-to-activate consumables).

[0718] In other embodiments of the fourth proposal of the invention the solid additive may be: [0719] solublesuch that it will fully solubilise into the liquid aerosol-forming substrate; and/or, replaceablesuch that something dissolves into the liquid and something is removed from the liquid; and/or, permanent-such that the additive will stay in the tank (reservoir) for the life of the reservoir.

[0720] While the fourth proposal of the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the fourth proposal of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the fourth proposal of the invention.

Proposal 5

[0721] FIG. 36 provides a perspective view of a filter as generally indicated by 701, in accordance with the fifth proposal of the present invention. FIG. 38 is an illustration of a type of filter shown in FIG. 36.

[0722] The filter 701 has a body 702 which incorporates two apertures, as generally indicated by 713, within which filter membranes 703 are located. The apertures (filter membrane apertures) 713 also comprise a bevelled portion 719 at their outermost end which is located on the upper surface of the body, as generally indicated by 720. The body 702 may be manufactured from plastics materials and/or metals and/or ceramics and/or glass. The plastics materials that are used to manufacture the body are preferably chosen from the group comprising PVC (polyvinyl chloride), HDPE (high-density polyethylene), PP (polypropylene) or PC polycarbonate.

[0723] An opening 709 is provided to receive an outlet of a consumable. The opening 709 being sized to allow the outlet 604 of a consumable to pass through during the manufacture of the consumable. However, the opening is sized such that a tight enough fit is provided between the outlet and the walls of the opening (aperture) 709 to prevent the passage of liquids and/or solids between the outlet and the opening when the consumable is in use. The opening 709 comprises a bevelled portion 719b located on the upper surface of the body 720. The bevelled portion 719b facilitates the insertion of an outlet sealing arm 805 into the aperture of the filter body 701, see later.

[0724] The body 702 of the filter 701 is shaped such that when it is inserted into the tank of a consumable, an interference fit is formed between the interior walls (normally the side walls 790) of the tank 156 and the side walls 714 of the filter 702. The interference fit being of sufficient tightness such that no solid and/or liquid may pass between the walls of the tank 156 and the side walls 714 of the body of the filter 702.

[0725] During manufacture of the filter 701, the filter membranes 703 may be located within the body 702 by means of two slots that are cut into the body 702. The slots are subsequently filled (and thus sealed) by the use of known means, such that the filter membranes are retained in place e.g. by the use of adhesive, the skilled person will appreciate that the surfaces of the filter membranes need to be kept free of the sealing material.

[0726] Reference is now made to FIG. 36 which provides a perspective view of a filter and FIG. 37 which provides a perspective view of a filter comprising legs.

[0727] In FIGS. 36 and 37, two recesses 716 are visible in the position corresponding to where the slots have been filled. In the event that a sufficiently tight seal cannot be formed between the interior walls of the tank 156 and the side walls 714 of the filter 702, a gasket (seal) 711, see FIG. 43, may be used to form the required seal between the walls of the tank and the body of the filter 702. The recesses 716 may assist in maintaining the location of the gasket 711 on the side walls of the filter body 702 during assembly of the consumable.

[0728] The skilled person will appreciate that other means may be used to locate the filters membranes 703 in the apertures 713. However, recesses 716 may still be provided in the filter body 702 to receive (and maintain the position) of a gasket 711.

[0729] Reference is now made to FIG. 44 which provides a plan view of a second gasket/seal (an outlet sealing means).

[0730] If required, a second gasket (seal) 712, as shown in FIG. 44; may be located between the walls of the outlet aperture 709 and the outlet 604.

[0731] Reference is now made to FIG. 39 which is an illustration of a filter comprising legs.

[0732] In a second embodiment of the fifth proposal of the invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 37 and 39 the filter body 702 further comprises two legs (elongate members) 715. The legs 715 are attached to the lower surface 717 of the filter body 702. In use the legs 715 are sized such that they extend from the filter body 702 and abut the silicone seal 400 that seals the coil and wick assembly to the outlet 604, at a first end of the outlet. In this way the position of the filter 701 within the tank is further stabilised. The legs may help in determining the position/depth to which the filter is inserted in the tank or assist in maintaining the filter in a fixed position. The legs 715 may wrap around the outlet (chimney) 604 which further assists in fixing the position of the filter within the tank.

[0733] FIG. 36a provides a perspective view of another alternative filter.

[0734] FIG. 36a shows a third embodiment of the fifth proposal of the invention wherein a filter 701 is provided in the form of a body 702 comprising integral apertures 780, i.e. the apertures 780 are provided in the body itself. The apertures 780 pass from the upper surface of the filter body 720 to the lower surface of the filter body 717. The apertures 780 are sized to remove solid material from a vapourisable liquid. Typically the apertures have a diameter in a range of 0.1 to 2 mm or more preferably in a range of 0.1 to 1 mm.

[0735] FIG. 40a is an illustration showing a perspective view of a tool used to insert filters into the tanks of consumables (a filter insertion tool).

[0736] FIG. 40b is an illustration showing a perspective view of one end of the filter insertion tool.

[0737] FIG. 40c is an illustration showing a perspective view of a second end of the filter insertion tool engaged with a filter.

[0738] FIG. 40d is an illustration showing a second perspective view of the second end of the filter insertion tool engaged with a filter.

[0739] The filter insertion tool (as generally indicated by 800) comprises a body 801 from which a pair of elongate arms 802 extend. The arms (filter engagement arms) 802 extend from the lower surface of the body 803. The arms are arranged parallel to each other and located such that the ends of the arms 804 may be engaged with the filter membrane apertures 713 of a filter. The ends of the arms 804 (that are distal from the body 801) are cylindrical in shape and terminate in dome shaped tips 809. The ends of the arms 804 are located relative to each other, and shaped such that, they may be engaged with the filter membrane apertures 713 to form an interference fit between the arms 802 and the walls of the filter membrane apertures 718.

[0740] FIG. 45 provides a cross-sectional view along the length of a filter engagement arm 802 of an insertion tool. An open ended hollow tube 808 runs along the length of each of the arms 802, from the tip 809 of the arm, and then through the body 801 to the upper surface of the body 806 thus providing hollow tubes 808 that are open at their ends.

[0741] The interior of the filter arms may be coated with a hydrophobic material to ensure that any liquid that enters the arms is quickly drained when the tool is withdrawn from a vapourisable liquid, see later.

[0742] FIG. 46 provides a cross-sectional view along the length of an outlet sealing arm of an insertion tool.

[0743] A third arm (outlet sealing/blocking arm) 805 is provided which is located between the two elongate arms 802.

[0744] The third arm 805 is positioned between the pair of arms 802 such that when the elongate arms 802 engage with the filter membrane apertures 713 of a filter, the third arm 805 is aligned with the outlet aperture 709 of the filter. The end 817 of third arm 805, that is distal from the body 801, is dome shaped such that in use it engages with and seals (blocks) the end of an outlet 604 of a consumable 150. As mentioned earlier, the bevelled portion 719b facilitates the insertion of an outlet sealing arm 805 into the aperture of the filter body 701. The third arm 805 comprises a section that passes through an aperture 811 in the body 801 of the filter insertion tool and a further portion 815 that protrudes beyond the upper surface of the body 806.

[0745] A retaining pin 812 passes through a pin retaining aperture 813 in the protruding portion of the third arm 815.

[0746] A spring 807, is located on the third arm (outlet sealing arm) 805 between the body 801, and a wider end portion of the arm 816 that is wider than the spring. The third arm 805 is maintained in its location within the body 801 by the pin 812 and the abutment of the spring 807 with the wider end portion of the third arm 816.

[0747] The outlet sealing arm 805 is spring loaded by the means described above. In this way when pressure is applied to the end of the third arm 817 that is distal from the body 801, the arm retracts in the direction of the body, due to the pressure applied to the spring 807. In this way the end of the outlet 604 is blocked by the end of the outlet blocking arm and vapourisable liquid is prevented from entering the outlet.

[0748] A filter 701 is inserted into the tank 156 of a consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device by use of the filter insertion tool 800 by means of the following steps: [0749] i) The filter 701 is located on the filter insertion apparatus (tool) 800, by means of the engagement of the arms 802 of the tool with the apertures (filter membrane apertures) 713. The bevelled portions 719 of the apertures 713 facilitate the insertion of the end of the arms 802 into said apertures 713. [0750] ii) The filter 701 is then appropriately positioned in the opening of a tank 156 that contains a vapourisable liquid, such that the outlet sealing means (the outlet sealing arm) 805 engages with a first end of an outlet 605 and thus the outlet 604 is sealed by the outlet sealing means 805. The vapourisable liquid may contain a solid or a solid may be deposited from the liquid over time. [0751] i) The filter insertion apparatus (tool) 801 is then used to insert the filter into the interior of the tank 156, until the filter 701 engages with the walls of the tank 156 and/or the outlet.

[0752] As the filter is inserted into the tank the original location of the end of outlet sealing arm 817 is maintained by the compression of the spring 807. The position of the filter 701 may be fixed (held in place) by the engagement of the shaped filter 701 with the walls of the tank 156 and/or by engagement of the filter with the outlet. FIG. 41 is an illustration of a filter 701 located within the tank 156 of a consumable 150 for containing vapourisable liquid.

[0753] The filter insertion apparatus is subsequently withdrawn from the tank and the outlet sealing means (outlet sealing arm/third arm) disengages from the first end of the outlet. The position of the filter is retained within the tank due to its engagement with said tank walls and/or the outlet.

[0754] FIG. 42 is an illustration of a filter 701 located within the tank 156 of a consumable 150 for containing vapourisable liquid, a section of the wall of the tank 156 has been removed to allow the location of the filter to be more readily seen.

[0755] If the filter 701 comprises legs 715 then the filter insertion tool may further comprise voids (not shown) that are sized to receive the legs 715 within the filter insertion tool 800.

[0756] The legs 715 of the filter may, in alternative embodiments of the fifth proposal of the invention, be inserted into a tank such that they extend from the filter body 702 and abut the end of the tank, i.e. the end of the tank that is distal from the vapourization means.

[0757] FIG. 47 is an illustration of a tank of a consumable 150 showing a filtered and unfiltered liquid, separated by a filter.

[0758] FIG. 47 shows a tank of a consumable 150 containing a filter 701, and at one end of the consumable a vapourisable liquid 900 containing solid is visible. The filter 701 separates the filtered liquid 901 from the unfiltered liquid 900 within the tank.

[0759] The filter in the tank comprises legs 715 which are located alongside the outlet 604 and abut the silicone seal 400. It can be seen that the liquid comprising the solid 900 is retained in the upper third of the tank whilst liquid that has been filtered by the filter is located in the tank on the side of the coil and wick assembly 162. The skilled person will appreciate that the filter may be positioned at a position within the tank such that the liquid containing the solid 900 is located within a larger or smaller region of the tank.

[0760] While the fifth proposal of the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the fifth proposal of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the fifth proposal of the invention.

[0761] For example the main body of the filter may be manufactured entirely from a filter membrane, such as a wire mesh or a ceramic material.

Further Aspects & Embodiments

[0762] Unless otherwise explicitly stated as incompatible, or the physics or otherwise of the embodiments, examples, or claims prevent such a combination, the features of the proposals disclosed herein may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially ones where there is a beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to only any specified benefit, and instead may arise from an ex post facto benefit. That is, the features of any given proposal may suitably be combined with each other and also the features of one proposal may suitably be combined with the features of another proposal.

[0763] The following numbered paragraphs contain statements of combinations of inventive technical features herein disclosed.

Proposal 1

[0764] 1. A consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device 110 which contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises a solid additive 750, characterised in that the solid additive 750 is provided in the form of one or more bodies 750, 792 that are sized to prevent the solid additive blocking the flow of liquid through the consumable 150. [0765] 2. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 1 wherein the one or more bodies 750, 792 comprise a width, a length and a height which are each greater than 2 mm. [0766] 3. A consumable 150 according to paragraphs 1 or 2 wherein the one or more bodies 750, 792 comprise a width, a length and a height which are each greater than 5 mm. [0767] 4. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3 wherein the one or more bodies 750, 792 comprise at least one dimension greater than 5 mm. [0768] 5. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 4 wherein the one or more bodies 750, 792 comprise a length in the range 5 to 40 mm. [0769] 6. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 5 wherein the one or more bodies 750, 792 comprise a width in a range of 2 to 25 mm. [0770] 7. A consumable 150 according to paragraphs 1, 4, 5 or 6 wherein the one or more bodies 750, 792 comprise a height and/or a wall thickness in a range of 0.5 to 5 mm. [0771] 8. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 7 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more bodies 750, 792 and said bodies comprise one or more shapes chosen from: elongate; spheroidal; ellipsoidal; spherical; planar; irregular, pellet; spaghetti; cuboid; and pyramidal. [0772] 9. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 8 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more bodies 750, 792 in the form of elongate and/or planar bodies. [0773] 10. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 9 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more bodies 750, 792 comprising one or more cavities through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may flow. [0774] 11. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 10 wherein the one or more bodies 750, 792 comprise at least one ribbed surface. [0775] 12. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 11 wherein the solid additive 750 adds one or more components chosen from a flavourant, a flavour enhancer, nicotine, a catalyst, additional chemicals, and/or means to remove chemicals to the liquid aerosol-forming liquid. [0776] 13. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 12 wherein the one or more bodies 750,792 comprise tobacco and/or extracts of tobacco. [0777] 14. A solid additive 750 for a consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 13. [0778] 15. Use of a solid additive 750 for a consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 14 wherein the additive 750 is placed in a tank of a consumable 156, said tank 156 being used to retain liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

Proposal 2

[0779] 16. A consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device 110, the consumable 150 comprising: [0780] a filter 701; [0781] a tank 156 for storing vapourisable liquid 755, 756; and [0782] a tank outlet 604, wherein the filter 701 is disposed in the tank 156 and retains solid material in the vaporisable liquid 755 within said tank 156, characterised in that the direction of flow of liquid through the filter 701 is substantially perpendicular to the direction of settlement of the solid material in the consumable under gravity. [0783] 17. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 16 wherein the filter 701 comprises a body 702. [0784] 18. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 16 or 17 wherein the filter 701 is provided in the form of a body 702 comprising integral pores 710 to retain solid material. [0785] 19. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 18 wherein the pores 710 have a diameter in a range of 0.1 to 2 mm. [0786] 20. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 18 wherein the pores 710 have a diameter in a range of 0.1 to 1 mm. [0787] 21. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 16 or 17 wherein the filter 701 comprises at least one filter membrane 703. [0788] 22. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 21 wherein the filter membrane 703 comprises one or more layers of a filter screen, a filter cloth, a ceramic filter, and/or a metal mesh. [0789] 23. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 21 or 22 wherein the size of the pores 710 in the filter membrane 703 are in the range of 0.02 to 2 mm, such as 0.05 to 0.6 mm. [0790] 24. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 21 or 22 wherein the size of the pores 710 in the filter membrane 703 are in the range 0.2 to 0.3 mm. [0791] 25. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 16 to 24 wherein one or more seals (711, 712) is/are located between the filter 701 and the interior of the tank 156. [0792] 26. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 16 to 25 wherein the filter 701 is releasably connected to the consumable 150. [0793] 27. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 16 to 25 wherein the filter 701 is formed as an integral part of the consumable 150. [0794] 28. A filter to retain solid material in a vapourisable liquid 755 in a tank 156 of a consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device 110, characterised in that the filter 701 is arranged such that the direction of flow of a liquid 756 through the filter 701 is substantially perpendicular to the direction of settlement of the solid material in the consumable 150 under gravity. [0795] 29. A filter 701, to remove solid material from a vapourisable liquid 755 in a tank 156 of a consumable 150, characterised in that the direction of the flow of liquid 756 through the filter 701 is substantially perpendicular to the axial direction between the upper end of the tank 173 and the lower end of the tank 172. [0796] 30. A filter 701 according to paragraph 28 or 29, characterised in that the filter 701 is adapted to engage with the tank 156 of a consumable 150 by means of a push-fit mechanism.

Proposal 3

[0797] 31. A consumable for a smoking substitute device, the consumable comprising a vaporisation means 302 which includes a wick 307; and a tank 156 which contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 754 and a solid additive 750; [0798] characterised in that the solid additive is provided in the form of a body that is adapted to engage with engagement means located in the tank 156 to retain the additive in position within the tank. [0799] 32. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 31 wherein the body is adapted to engage with engagement means provided on the tank. [0800] 33. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 31 or 32 wherein the body is adapted to engage with an opening of the tank provided for filing and/or refilling of the tank with liquid. [0801] 34. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 33 wherein a body is adapted to engage with a component of a vaporiser assembly. [0802] 35. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 34 wherein a body is adapted to engage with a sealing element for the tank. [0803] 36. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 35 wherein a body is adapted to engage with an air flow chimney of the consumable. [0804] 37. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 36 wherein a body is adapted to engage with multiple engagement means located within the tank. [0805] 38. A consumable according to paragraph 37 wherein a body is adapted to engage with at least two different components of the consumable. [0806] 39. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 38 wherein a body is provided with surface formations configured to engage with corresponding or complementary formations located within the tank. [0807] 40. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 39 wherein the body is adapted to engage with engagement means located within the tank by means of one or more selected from an interference fit, a push fit, a sliding fit, a snap fit and/or a screw fit. [0808] 41. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 40 wherein the solid additive comprises one or more bodies that have been extruded and/or rolled and/or stamped and/or pressed and/or crushed and/or injection moulded and/or cast. [0809] 42. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 41 wherein the solid additive comprises one or more of: a body with no cavity; a body with one or more cavities; a mesh; a compressed powder; a foam; a porous material; and/or a perforated material. [0810] 43. A consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 42 wherein the solid additive comprises: [0811] (i) organic material(s) and/or inorganic material(s); and/or [0812] (ii) one or more components chosen from tobacco, extracts from tobacco, a flavourant, a flavour enhancer, nicotine, a catalyst, additional chemical, and/or means to remove chemicals. [0813] 44. A solid additive that is added to a tank of a consumable of a smoking substitute device wherein the tank contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, characterised in that the solid additive is provided in the form of a body that is adapted to engage with engagement means located in the tank for fixing the additive in position within the tank. [0814] 45. Use of a solid additive for a consumable according to any one of paragraphs 31 to 44 wherein the additive is secured within a tank of the consumable by engagement between the additive and engagement means provided in the tank.

Proposal 4

[0815] 46. A consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device which contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate located in a tank of the consumable, wherein the liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises a solid additive 750, characterised in that the solid additive 750 is provided in the form of one or more bodies 750, that comprise one or more cavities 759 through which said liquid aerosol-forming substrate may flow, and/or are shaped to form interstitial spaces through which said liquid aerosol-forming substrate may flow, such that blocking of the flow of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the consumable 150 by the solid additive is prevented. [0816] 47. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 46 wherein the bodies 750 shaped to form the interstitial spaces further comprise one or more recesses 753 in their exterior surface. [0817] 48. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 46 or 47 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more elongate bodies. [0818] 49. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 48 wherein the one or more bodies 750 comprise a length in the range 2 to 40 mm. [0819] 50. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 46 to 49 wherein the one or more bodies 750 comprise a width in a range of 2 to 25 mm. [0820] 51. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 46 to 50 wherein the one or more bodies 750 comprise a thickness or a height in a range of 0.5 to 5 mm. [0821] 52. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 46 to 51 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more bodies 750 that further comprise one or more cavities 759 each having a diameter in the range 1 to 2 mm. [0822] 53. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 46 to 52 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more bodies 750 that have been extruded and/or rolled and/or stamped and/or pressed and/or crushed and/or injection moulded and/or cast. [0823] 54. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 46 to 53 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more of; a body 750 with no cavity; a body 750 with one or more cavities; a mesh; a compressed powder; a foam; a porous material; and/or a perforated material. [0824] 55. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 46 to 54 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises organic material(s) and/or inorganic material(s). [0825] 56. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 55 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises one or more components chosen from a flavourant, a flavour enhancer, nicotine, a catalyst, additional chemicals, and/or means to remove chemicals. [0826] 57. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 55 or 56 wherein the organic and/or inorganic material(s) is/are provided as one or more of a coating or partial coating, and/or is/are located in a layer, and/or is/are located within a cavity of the one or more bodies. [0827] 58. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 55 to 57 wherein the solid additive 750 comprises organic material in the form of tobacco and/or extracts from tobacco. [0828] 59. A solid additive 750, that is added to a tank 156 of a consumable 150 of a smoking substitute device 110 wherein the tank 156 contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, characterised in that the solid additive 750 is provided in the form of one or more bodies 750 that comprise one or more cavities 759 through which a liquid aerosol-forming substrate may flow, and/or are shaped to form interstitial spaces through which said liquid aerosol-forming substrate may flow, such that blocking of the flow of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the consumable 150 by the solid additive 750 is prevented. [0829] 60. Use of a solid additive 750 for a consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 46 to 59 wherein the additive is placed in a tank 156 of a consumable 150 said tank 156 being used to retain a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

Proposal 5

[0830] 61. A consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device 110, the consumable 150 comprising: [0831] a filter 701; [0832] a tank 156, for storing vapourisable liquid; and, [0833] optionally the consumable comprises an outlet 604 in fluid communication with the tank 156, [0834] wherein the filter 701 is disposed in the tank 156 and retains solid material in the vaporisable liquid within said tank 156, and characterised in that the filter 701 is engageable with the interior walls of the tank 790, and/or the outlet 604 of the consumable when said outlet is present, to fix the position of the filter 701 in said tank 156. [0835] 62. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 61 wherein the filter 701 comprises a body 702. [0836] 63. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 61 or 62 wherein the filter 701 comprises one or more elongate members 715. [0837] 64. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 62 or 63 wherein the filter 701 is provided in the form of a body 702 comprising integral apertures 780 to retain solid material. [0838] 65. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 64 wherein the apertures 710 have a diameter in a range of 0.1 to 2 mm. [0839] 66. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 64 wherein the apertures 710 have a diameter in a range of 0.1 to 1 mm. [0840] 67. A consumable 150 according to any one of paragraphs 61 to 63 wherein the filter 701 comprises at least one filter membrane 703. [0841] 68. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 67 wherein the filter membrane 703 comprises one or more layers of a filter screen, a filter cloth, a ceramic filter, and/or a metal mesh. [0842] 69. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 67 or 68 wherein the size of the apertures 713 in the filter membrane 703 are in the range of 0.02 to 2 mm. [0843] 70. A consumable 150 according to paragraph 67 or 68 wherein the size of the apertures 713 in the filter membrane 703 are in the range of 0.05 to 0.6 mm. [0844] 71. A filter 701 for removing solid material from a vapourisable liquid in a tank of a consumable 150 of a smoking substitute device 101, characterised in that the filter is fixed in position within the tank by the engagement of the filter with the walls of the tank and/or optionally an outlet of the consumable 150. [0845] 72. A filter insertion tool 800 for inserting a filter 701 into the tank of a consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device 101, the filter insertion tool 800 comprising a means 802 to initially retain the filter, and to subsequently release the filter 701 following the engagement of the filter with the walls of the tank. [0846] 73. A filter insertion tool 800 according to paragraph 72 wherein the filter insertion tool further comprises an outlet sealing means 805 that is moveable relative to the filter retaining means 802. [0847] 74. A method for inserting a filter 701 into a consumable 150 for a smoking substitute device 101 characterised in that it comprises the steps of: [0848] engaging the filter 701 with a filter insertion tool 800, locating the filter at an opening of a tank, wherein the tank optionally comprises an outlet 605; [0849] inserting the filter 701 into the tank 156 until the filter engages with the walls of the tank 790 and/or optionally an outlet 604 of the consumable when present; and, [0850] subsequently withdrawing the filter insertion tool from the tank 156 such that the filter is retained within the tank 156 due to its engagement with said tank walls 790 and/or the outlet, and thus the filter is disengaged from the filter insertion tool.

LIST OF FEATURES

[0851] 110 Smoking substitute device [0852] 120 Main body [0853] 122 Top end of main body [0854] 124 Bottom end of main body [0855] 126 Light [0856] 128 Slot [0857] 130 Control unit [0858] 132 Memory [0859] 134 Wireless interface [0860] 136 Electrical interface [0861] 138 Additional component [0862] 140 Power source [0863] 150 Consumable [0864] 152 Top end of consumable [0865] 154 Bottom end of consumable [0866] 156 Tank [0867] 158 Window [0868] 160 Electrical interface [0869] 162 Heating device (coil and wick assembly) [0870] 162a Side walls of heating device [0871] 164 Air inlet [0872] 166 Mouthpiece [0873] 168 Additional components [0874] 170a,b Aperture for clip [0875] 172 Lower end of the tank [0876] 173 Upper end of the tank [0877] 302 Coil and wick assembly [0878] 304 Tank Housing/Housing of coil and wick assembly [0879] 305a,b Apertures [0880] 306 Coil [0881] 307,307a,b Wick [0882] 308a,b Electrical contacts [0883] 309a,b Clip [0884] 310 Cavity [0885] 312 Mouthpiece chamber [0886] 314a,b Mouthpiece outlets [0887] 315 Tanking Housing [0888] 400 Outlet seal/Silicone seal [0889] 402a,b Clip [0890] 502 Clip main body [0891] 602 Sediment [0892] 604 Outlet (chimney) [0893] 605 First end of the outlet [0894] 606, 608 Air flow [0895] 701 Filter [0896] 702 Filter body [0897] 703 Filter membrane [0898] 703a First filter membrane [0899] 703b Second filter membrane [0900] 704 First end of the filter [0901] 705 Opening in first end of the filter [0902] 706 Interior walls of the body [0903] 707, Side walls at the first end of the body (the section of the sidewalls adjacent the heater) [0904] 708 Second end of the filter [0905] 709 Second opening (outlet aperture) [0906] 710 Pores [0907] 711 First seal (gasket) [0908] 712 Second seal (gasket) [0909] 713 Aperture to receive a filter membrane (filter membrane aperture) [0910] 714 Side walls of the filter [0911] 715 Elongate members [0912] 716 Recesses [0913] 717 Lower surface of the filter body [0914] 718 Walls of the filter membrane apertures [0915] 719 Bevelled portion of filter membrane apertures [0916] 720 Upper surface of filter body [0917] 721 Lower face of the filter [0918] 723 Area of pores forming a filter face [0919] 725 Vapourisable liquid containing solid material [0920] 726 Vapourisable liquid that has been filtered [0921] 726a Vapourisable liquid that contains only smaller particles following an initial filtration [0922] 727 Tank outlet [0923] 728 Settlement Space [0924] 729 Vertical section of the side wall of the filter [0925] 730 First zone of tank [0926] 732 Second zone of tank [0927] 750 Solid additive (or bodies thereof) [0928] 751 Aperture in solid additive body [0929] 752 Walls of the body [0930] 753 Channels in body wall [0931] 754 Liquid [0932] 755 Ribs [0933] 756 Perforations [0934] 757 Side walls of cavity [0935] 758 Exterior walls of body [0936] 759 Cavity [0937] 761 Recess [0938] 762 Projection [0939] 764 Liquid components of aerosol-forming substrate [0940] 770 Refilling port [0941] 780 Apertures [0942] 790 Side walls of the tank [0943] 790a Lower side walls of the tank [0944] 791 Space between side walls and heater assembly [0945] 792 Solid bodies [0946] 793 Space between side walls and outlet [0947] 795 Formations on side wall of tank [0948] 800 Filter insertion tool [0949] 801 Body of the filter insertion tool [0950] 802 Filter engagement arms [0951] 803 Lower surface of the body [0952] 804 Ends of the arms [0953] 805 Outlet sealing arm, third arm [0954] 806 Upper surface of the filter insertion tool [0955] 807 Spring [0956] 808 Hollow tube [0957] 809 Dome shaped tips of the filter engagement arms of the filter insertion tool [0958] 810 Section of third arm located within the body of a filter insertion tool. [0959] 811 Aperture in the body of a filter insertion tool [0960] 812 Pin