RU2812716C2 - Aerosol-generating system and aerosol-generating article containing aerosol-generating film - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol-generating systems.

SUBSTANCE: aerosol-generating system comprising: an aerosol-generating film (4) containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol; a heater unit (6) for heating the aerosol generating film (4) to generate a respirable aerosol; power unit; and a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating assembly in response to an inhalation by the user, wherein the control circuit is configured to activate the heater assembly (6) to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating film (4) in response to successive breaths of the user. The aerosol-generating article contains: a support (2); and a plurality of spaced individual portions of an aerosol-generating film (4) disposed on the support (2), each spaced individual portion of an aerosol-generating film (4) containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener, and a polyhydric alcohol.

EFFECT: effective performance.

16 cl, 8 dwg, 1 tbl

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating film. In particular, the present invention relates to a hand-held aerosol generating system that is configured to vaporize an aerosol generating film by heating to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating film. More particularly, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating film for use in a hand held aerosol generating system which is configured to vaporize the aerosol generating film by heating to generate an aerosol to be inhaled by a user.

Aerosol-generating products in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a nicotine-containing substrate or a tobacco-containing substrate, is heated rather than burned are known in the art. Typically, in such heated aerosol-generating articles, the aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separate aerosol-generating substrate or material that may be located in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in air drawn through the aerosol generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol. Substrates for heated aerosol generating products typically contain an "aerosol generating agent", i.e. a compound or mixture of compounds that, when used, facilitates the formation of an aerosol. Examples of aerosol-forming agents include polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol and glycerin.

Known heated aerosol generating articles include, for example, aerosol generating articles that are electrically heated to generate an aerosol, and aerosol generating articles in which the aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a combustible fuel element or heat source to a physically separate aerosol generating material .

Known hand-held electrical aerosol generating systems include, for example, electrical aerosol generating systems that include: an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol generating substrate; and an aerosol generating device comprising a battery, a control circuit and an electric heater for heating an aerosol generating substrate, an aerosol generating article, to generate an aerosol. In some examples, an electrical heater of the aerosol generating device is inserted into or around the aerosol generating substrate when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device.

Also known are hand-held electrical aerosol generating systems comprising electrical heaters that are arranged to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating substrate to provide individual puffs.

For example, US 5,060,671 discloses an article in which a fragrance-generating medium is electrically heated to release inhalable fragrances or other components in the form of a vapor or aerosol. The product contains multiple portions of the flavoring agent generating medium, which are heated sequentially to provide individual puffs. The article comprises electrical heating means for separately heating each of the plurality of portions, a source of electrical energy for powering the electrical heating means, and control means for supplying electrical energy to the electrical heating means for separately heating one of the plurality of portions. Each of the portions, when heated, delivers a certain amount of the substance containing the flavoring agent to the consumer.

Known aerosol generating systems may suffer from the problem that the amount of aerosol generated for the puff is not constant. This may be due to changes in the amount of aerosol-generating substrate that is heated to generate the aerosol for each puff, or to changes in the composition of the aerosol-generating substrate that is heated to generate the aerosol for each puff.

It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system that provides a more consistent aerosol delivery.

In particular, it would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system that provides a controlled and constant predetermined amount of aerosol delivered to a user per puff.

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating film. The aerosol generating film may contain a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener, and a polyhydric alcohol. The aerosol generating system may include a heater assembly for heating the aerosol generating film to generate a respirable aerosol. The aerosol generating system may include a power supply. The aerosol generating system may include a control circuit. The control circuitry may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating assembly in response to a user's inhalation. The control circuitry may be configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol generating film containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol; a heater unit for heating the aerosol generating film to generate a respirable aerosol; power unit; and a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating assembly in response to a user's inhalation, the control circuit being configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive inhalations of the user.

The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article may include a support. The aerosol generating article may comprise a plurality of spaced apart individual pieces of aerosol generating film located on a support. Each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener, and a polyhydric alcohol.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating article comprising: a support; and a plurality of spaced apart individual aerosol generating film portions disposed on the support, each spaced apart individual aerosol generating film portion comprising a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener, and a polyhydric alcohol.

As further described below, aerosol generating systems according to the first aspect of the present invention may comprise an aerosol generating article according to the second aspect of the present invention.

As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "film" is used to describe a solid layered element having a thickness that is less than its width or length.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "aerosol generating film" is used to describe a film having the ability to release volatile compounds when heated to generate an aerosol.

The aerosol generating system of the present invention comprises an aerosol generating film containing a combination of a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol.

It has been discovered that the inclusion of high levels of polyhydric alcohol and, in particular, high levels of glycerol, in liquid film-forming compositions can adversely affect the physical stability of films produced, for example, by casting or extruding and then drying liquid film-forming compositions.

The inventors have surprisingly discovered that the inclusion of a cellulose-based film-forming agent in combination with a non-cellulose-based thickener produces aerosol-generating films containing high levels of polyhydric alcohol, and in particular high levels of glycerol, with increased physical stability.

In particular, the inventors have unexpectedly discovered that the inclusion of a cellulose-based film-forming agent in combination with a non-cellulose-based thickener produces aerosol-generating films containing high levels of polyhydric alcohol, and in particular high levels of glycerol, which substantially retain their properties. form and composition over time when exposed to environmental or storage conditions.

The inclusion of a cellulose-based film-forming agent in combination with a non-cellulose-based thickener provides the formation of aerosol-generating films containing high levels of polyhydric alcohol, and in particular high levels of glycerol, of a given shape, size and composition with high accuracy and reproducibility.

When used to heat an aerosol generating film containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol, a respirable aerosol containing the polyhydric alcohol and, if present in the film, can be generated by the heater assembly of the aerosol generating system according to the present invention. an aerosol-generating alkaloid compound, such as nicotine, or a cannabinoid compound, such as cannabidiol (CBD) or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), without substantially releasing a liquid phase from the aerosol-generating film.

When using heating of an aerosol generating film containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol, substantially all of the aerosol generating film can be evaporated by the heater assembly of the aerosol generating system according to the present invention to generate a respirable aerosol. In particular, when the aerosol generating film is heated to a temperature of from about 180 degrees Celsius to about 250 degrees Celsius to generate a respirable aerosol, substantially all of the components of the aerosol generating film except a small amount of the cellulose-based film-forming agent can be vaporized.

In the aerosol generating systems according to the first aspect of the present invention and the aerosol generating articles according to the second aspect of the present invention, delivery of the puff aerosol can advantageously be accurately and reliably controlled by adjusting the size and composition of the aerosol generating film.

Incorporation of an aerosol generating film containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol into aerosol generating systems according to the first aspect of the present invention and aerosol generating articles ensures that the aerosol generating film can generate a uniform aerosol and deliver it to the user over successive user inhalations or puffs.

The aerosol-generating film can be self-supporting. The mechanical and cohesive properties of the self-supporting aerosol generating film are such that even if the aerosol generating film is formed, for example, by casting a liquid film-forming composition onto a support, the resulting aerosol generating film can be separated from the support.

The aerosol generating film can be placed on a support or placed between other materials. This can improve the mechanical stability of the film.

The aerosol generating film may have a thickness less than or equal to approximately 1 millimeter. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a thickness less than or equal to approximately 0.8 millimeters.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "thickness" is used to describe the minimum distance measured between opposing, substantially parallel surfaces of the aerosol generating film.

As further described below, the aerosol generating film can be formed by drying a cast or extruded aqueous liquid film-forming composition containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol. In such embodiments, the cast or extruded aqueous liquid film-forming composition may advantageously not shrink substantially during drying despite loss of water. As a result, the thickness of the aerosol generating film may substantially correspond to the thickness of the cast or extruded aqueous liquid film-forming composition.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of less than or equal to about 0.6 millimeters. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of less than or equal to about 0.4 millimeters. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of less than or equal to about 0.2 millimeters.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of at least about 0.05 millimeters. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of at least about 0.075 millimeters. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of at least about 0.1 millimeters.

The aerosol generating film may have a thickness of from about 0.05 millimeter to about 1 millimeter. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a thickness ranging from about 0.05 millimeters to about 0.8 millimeters.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of from about 0.05 millimeters to about 0.6 millimeters. For example, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of from about 0.05 millimeters to about 0.4 millimeters, or from about 0.05 millimeters to about 0.2 millimeters.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of from about 0.075 millimeters to about 0.6 millimeters. For example, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of from about 0.075 millimeters to about 0.4 millimeters, or from about 0.075 millimeters to about 0.2 millimeters.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of from about 0.1 millimeter to about 0.6 millimeter. For example, the aerosol generating film has a thickness of from about 0.1 millimeter to about 0.4 millimeters, or from about 0.1 millimeter to about 0.2 millimeters.

Aerosol generating films that have a thickness of from about 0.1 millimeter to about 0.2 millimeter may advantageously have low thermal inertia and satisfactory mechanical strength.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a grammage of at least about 60 grams per square meter (g/m ² ). More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of at least about 80 ^gsm . Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of at least about 100 ^gsm . For example, the aerosol generating film has a weight of at least about 120 ^gsm or at least about 140 ^gsm .

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of less than or equal to about 400 ^gsm . More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of less than or equal to about 350 ^gsm . Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of less than or equal to about 300 ^gsm . For example, the aerosol generating film may have a weight of less than or equal to about 280 g/m ² or less than or equal to about 260 g/m ² .

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of from about 60 ^gsm to about 400 ^gsm . For example, the aerosol generating film may have a weight of from about 60 ^gsm to about 350 ^gsm , from about 60 ^gsm to about 300 ^gsm , from about 60 ^gsm to about 350 g/ ^m2 , about 60 g/ ^m2 to about 300 g/ ^m2 , about 60 g/ ^m2 to about 280 g/m2 ^, or about 60 g/m2 to about ²⁶⁰ g/m2 ² .

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of from about 80 ^gsm to about 400 ^gsm . For example, the aerosol generating film may have a weight ranging from about 80 ^gsm to about 350 ^gsm , from about 80 ^gsm to about 300 ^gsm , from about 80 ^gsm to about 280 g/m ² or from about 80 g/m ² to about 260 g/m ² .

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a weight of from about 100 ^gsm to about 400 ^gsm . For example, the aerosol generating film may have a weight of from about 100 ^gsm to about 350 ^gsm , from about 100 ^gsm to about 300 ^gsm , from about 100 ^gsm to about 280 g/m ² or from about 100 g/m ² to about 260 g/m ² .

For example, aerosol generating films have a weight range of from about 120 ^gsm to about 400 ^gsm , from about 120 ^gsm to about 350 ^gsm , from about 120 ^gsm to about 300 ^gsm , from about 120 ^gsm to about 280 gsm ^, or from about 120 ^gsm to about 260 ^gsm .

For example, aerosol generating films have a weight range of from about 140 ^gsm to about 400 ^gsm , from about 140 ^gsm to about 350 ^gsm , from about 140 ^gsm to about 300 g/m ² , from about 140 g/m ² to about 280 g/m ² , or from about 140 g/m ² to about 260 g/m ² .

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is self-supporting, the weight of the aerosol generating film can be measured directly by weighing the aerosol generating film.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is located on a support, the weight of the aerosol generating film can be calculated by weighing the support before placing the aerosol generating film on it, then weighing the support with the aerosol generating film located thereon, and subsequently subtracting the weight of the support from the total weight of the aerosol generating film and the support.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is sandwiched between other materials, the weight of the aerosol generating film can likewise be calculated by subtracting the weight of the other materials from the total weight of the aerosol generating film, support, and other materials.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is formed by drying a cast or extruded aqueous liquid film-forming composition comprising a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol, the weight of the aerosol generating film generally corresponds to the weight of the components aqueous liquid film-forming composition minus the weight of water evaporated during drying of the cast or extruded aqueous liquid film-forming composition.

The aerosol generating film contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term “cellulose-based film-forming agent” is used to describe a cellulose polymer capable of forming a continuous film, alone or in the presence of a non-cellulose-based thickener.

Preferably, the cellulose-based film-forming agent is a cellulose ether.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term “non-cellulose thickener” is used to describe a non-cellulosic substance that, when added to an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid film-forming composition, increases the viscosity of the liquid film-forming composition without substantially changing its other properties. A non-cellulose-based thickener can increase stability and improve suspension of components in a liquid film-forming composition. A thickener may also be called a "thickening agent" or a "rheology modifier".

Unless otherwise specified, the percentages by weight of aerosol generating film components given herein are based on the total weight of the aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of at least about 3 weight percent or at least about 6 weight percent.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of at least about 10 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of at least about 12 weight percent or at least about 14 weight percent. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of at least about 16 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of at least about 18 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of less than or equal to about 70 weight percent or less than or equal to about 50 weight percent.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of less than or equal to about 26 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of less than or equal to about 24 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of less than or equal to about 22 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content ranging from about 3 weight percent to about 70 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content ranging from about 3 weight percent to about 50 weight percent.

The aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content ranging from about 6 percent by weight to about 70 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of from about 6 percent by weight to about 50 percent by weight.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of from about 10 weight percent to about 26 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of from about 10 weight percent to about 24 weight percent, or from about 10 weight percent to about 22 weight percent.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of from about 16 weight percent to about 26 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of from about 16 weight percent to about 24 weight percent, or from about 16 weight percent to about 22 weight percent.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of from about 18 weight percent to about 26 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a cellulose-based film-forming agent content of from about 18 weight percent to about 24 weight percent, or from about 18 weight percent to about 22 weight percent.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), methylcellulose (MC), ethylcellulose (EC), hydroxyethylmethylcellulose (HEMC), hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) and hydroxypropylcellulose ( HPC).

More preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), methylcellulose (MC) and ethylcellulose (EC).

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film contains hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC).

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of at least about 1 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of at least about 2 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of at least about 3 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may have a non-cellulose thickener content of less than or equal to about 50 percent by weight or less than or equal to about 25 percent by weight.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of less than or equal to about 10 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of less than or equal to about 8 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of less than or equal to about 6 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may have a non-cellulose thickener content of from about 1 weight percent to about 50 weight percent, or from about 1 weight percent to about 25 weight percent.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a non-cellulose thickener content of from about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent, or from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of from about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a non-cellulose thickener content of from about 2 weight percent to about 8 weight percent, or from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a non-cellulose thickener content of from about 3 weight percent to about 10 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a non-cellulose thickener content of from about 3 weight percent to about 8 weight percent, or from about 3 weight percent to about 6 weight percent.

Non-cellulose based thickeners suitable for inclusion in an aerosol generating film include, but are not limited to, polysaccharide gelling agents and natural gums.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more non-cellulose based thickeners selected from the group consisting of agar, alginate, xanthan gum, gellan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, locust bean gum, carrageenan, pectin and starch.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more non-cellulose based thickeners selected from the group consisting of agar, alginate and xanthan gum.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film contains agar.

The aerosol generating film may have a polyhydric alcohol content of at least about 25 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a polyol content of at least about 30 percent by weight.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyol content of at least about 40 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyol content of at least about 42 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyol content of at least about 44 percent by weight.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyhydric alcohol content of less than or equal to about 90 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyhydric alcohol content of less than or equal to about 85 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyhydric alcohol content of less than or equal to about 80 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may have a polyhydric alcohol content ranging from about 25 weight percent to about 90 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a polyhydric alcohol content ranging from about 30 weight percent to about 90 weight percent.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyhydric alcohol content of from about 40 percent by weight to about 90 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a polyhydric alcohol content of from about 40 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, or from about 40 weight percent to about 80 weight percent.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyhydric alcohol content of from about 42 percent by weight to about 90 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a polyhydric alcohol content of from about 42 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, or from about 42 weight percent to about 80 weight percent.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a polyhydric alcohol content of from about 44 percent by weight to about 90 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a polyhydric alcohol content of from about 44 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, or from about 44 weight percent to about 80 weight percent.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more polyhydric alcohols selected from the group consisting of 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, propylene glycol and triethylene glycol.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more polyhydric alcohols selected from the group consisting of glycerol and propylene glycol.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film contains glycerin.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent of cellulose-based film-forming agent to the weight percent of polyhydric alcohol in the aerosol generating film is at least about 0.1, more preferably at least about 0.2, most preferably at least about 0. 3.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent cellulose-based film-forming agent to the weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the aerosol generating film is less than or equal to about 1.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent of cellulose-based film-forming agent to the weight percent of polyhydric alcohol in the aerosol generating film is from about 0.1 to about 1, more preferably from about 0.2 to about 1, most preferably from about 0. 3 to about 1.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent of non-cellulose thickener to the weight percent of polyhydric alcohol in the aerosol generating film is at least about 0.05, more preferably at least 0.1, most preferably at least 0.2.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent non-cellulose thickener to the weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the aerosol generating film is less than or equal to about 0.5.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent non-cellulose thickener to the weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the aerosol generating film is from about 0.05 to about 0.5, more preferably from about 0.1 to about 0.5, most preferably from about 0.2 to about 0.5.

In certain preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating film may comprise HPMC and glycerol.

In such embodiments, preferably the ratio of the weight percent of HPMC to the weight percent of glycerin in the aerosol generating film is at least about 0.1, more preferably at least about 0.2, most preferably at least about 0. 3.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent of HPMC to the weight percent of glycerol in the aerosol generating film is less than or equal to about 1.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent of HPMC to the weight percent of glycerin in the aerosol generating film is from about 0.1 to about 1, more preferably from about 0.2 to about 1, most preferably from about 0.3 to about 1.

In certain preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating film may contain agar and glycerol.

In such embodiments, preferably the ratio of the weight percent of agar to the weight percent of glycerol in the aerosol generating film is at least about 0.05, more preferably at least 0.1, most preferably at least 0.2.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent of agar to the weight percent of glycerol in the aerosol generating film is less than or equal to about 0.5.

Preferably, the ratio of the weight percent of agar to the weight percent of glycerol in the aerosol generating film is from about 0.05 to about 0.5, more preferably from about 0.1 to about 0.5, most preferably from about 0.2 to approximately 0.5.

In certain particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating film may comprise HPMC, agar and glycerol.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film contains water.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a water content of less than or equal to about 30 percent by weight.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has a water content of from about 10 percent by weight to about 20 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may contain an alkaloid compound or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The aerosol generating film may contain one or more alkaloids. The aerosol generating film may contain one or more cannabinoids. The aerosol generating film may contain a combination of one or more alkaloids and one or more cannabinoids.

As used herein, in relation to the present invention, the term “alkaloid compound” is used to describe any of a class of naturally occurring organic compounds that contain one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Typically, the alkaloid compound contains at least one nitrogen atom in an amine-type structure. This or another nitrogen atom in an alkaloid compound molecule may be active as a base in acid-base reactions. Most alkaloid compounds have one or more nitrogen atoms as part of a cyclic system, such as a heterocyclic ring. In nature, alkaloid compounds are found primarily in plants and are particularly common in certain families of flowering plants. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal and fungal species. As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “alkaloid compound” is used to describe both naturally occurring alkaloid compounds and synthetically produced alkaloid compounds.

The aerosol generating film may contain one or more alkaloid compounds selected from the group consisting of nicotine and anatabine.

The aerosol generating film may contain nicotine.

As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “nicotine-containing aerosol-generating film” means an aerosol-generating film that contains nicotine.

As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “nicotine” is used to describe nicotine, nicotine base or nicotine salt. In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine base or nicotine salt, the amounts of nicotine provided herein mean the amount of free base nicotine or the amount of protonated nicotine, respectively.

The aerosol generating film may contain naturally occurring nicotine or synthetically manufactured nicotine.

As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “cannabinoid compound” is used to describe any of a class of naturally occurring compounds that are found in parts of the cannabis plant, namely the species Cannabis sativa , Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis . Cannabinoid compounds are particularly concentrated in the female flower heads. Cannabinoid compounds found naturally in the hemp plant include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “cannabinoid compounds” is used to describe both naturally occurring cannabinoid compounds and synthetically produced cannabinoid compounds.

The aerosol generating film may contain one or more cannabinoid compounds selected from the group consisting of cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG) , cannabichromene (CBC), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabivarin (CBV), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), cannabigerol monomethyl ether (CBGM), cannabielsoin (CBE) and cannabicitran ( CBT).

The aerosol generating film may contain one or more cannabinoid compounds selected from the group consisting of cannabidiol (CBD) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

The aerosol generating film may contain cannabidiol (CBD).

The aerosol-generating film may contain nicotine and cannabidiol (CBD).

The aerosol generating film may contain nicotine, cannabidiol (CBD) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

The aerosol generating film may contain one or more monobasic nicotine salts.

As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “nicotine monobasic salt” is used to describe the monobasic acid salt of nicotine.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains an alkaloid compound or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of at least about 0 .5 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of at least about 1 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of at least about 2 percent by weight.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains an alkaloid compound or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, the aerosol generating film may have a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of less than or equal to about 10 percent by weight. weight

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains an alkaloid compound or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of less than or equal to about 6 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of less than or equal to about 5 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of less than or equal to about 4 percent by weight.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains an alkaloid compound or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, the aerosol generating film may have a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of between about 0.5 percent by weight to approximately 10 percent by weight.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains an alkaloid compound or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of between about 0.5 percent by weight to approximately 6 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of from about 1 percent by weight to about 6 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of from about 1 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or from about 1 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of from about 2 percent by weight to about 6 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a total alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound content of from about 2 weight percent to about 5 weight percent, or from about 2 weight percent to about 4 weight percent.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine, preferably the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of at least about 0.5 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of at least about 1 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of at least about 2 percent by weight.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine, the aerosol generating film may have a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 10 percent by weight.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine, preferably the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 6 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 5 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 4 percent by weight.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine, the aerosol generating film may have a nicotine content ranging from about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine, preferably the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 6 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a nicotine content of from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of from about 1 percent by weight to about 6 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a nicotine content of from about 1 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or from about 1 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of from about 2 percent by weight to about 6 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a nicotine content of from about 2 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or from about 2 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may have a tobacco content of less than or equal to about 70 percent by weight, less than or equal to about 50 percent by weight, less than or equal to about 30 percent by weight, or less than or equal to about 10 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may be a substantially tobacco-free aerosol generating film.

As used herein, in relation to the present invention, the term “substantially tobacco-free aerosol generating film” describes an aerosol generating film having a tobacco content of less than 1 percent by weight. For example, the aerosol generating film may have a tobacco content of less than about 0.75 percent by weight, less than about 0.5 percent by weight, or less than about 0.25 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may be a substantially tobacco-free, nicotine-containing aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating film may be a tobacco-free aerosol generating film.

As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “tobacco-free aerosol generating film” describes an aerosol generating film having a tobacco content of 0 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film may be a tobacco-free, nicotine-containing aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating film may contain tobacco plant material or an extract from the tobacco plant. For example, the aerosol generating film may contain tobacco particles, such as tobacco flake particles.

As used herein, in relation to the present invention, the term “tobacco-containing aerosol-generating film” describes an aerosol-generating film containing tobacco plant material or tobacco extract.

The aerosol generating film may contain non-tobacco plant material or an extract from a non-tobacco plant. The aerosol generating film may contain tobacco material or non-tobacco plant material or plant extract. For example, the aerosol generating film may contain particles of plants such as cloves and eucalyptus.

The aerosol generating film may contain acid.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more organic acids.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film contains one or more carboxylic acids.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film contains lactic acid or levulinic acid.

The inclusion of acid is particularly preferred in embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine. In such embodiments, the presence of acid may stabilize dissolved compounds in the liquid film-forming composition from which the aerosol-generating film is formed. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the acid can react with nicotine, especially if the nicotine is present in the form of a nicotine salt, and that the interaction between the acid and nicotine can reduce or substantially prevent the evaporation of nicotine during drying of the liquid film-forming composition to form an aerosol-generating film. The loss of nicotine during the production of the aerosol generating film can thus be minimized. This can advantageously provide increased and more precisely controlled delivery of nicotine to the user.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of at least about 0.25 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of at least about 0.5 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of at least about 1 percent by weight.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of less than or equal to about 3.5 percent by weight. More preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of less than or equal to about 3 percent by weight. Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of less than or equal to about 2.5 percent by weight.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of from about 0.25 weight percent to about 3.5 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have an acid content of from about 0.25 weight percent to about 3 weight percent, or from about 0.25 weight percent to about 2.5 weight percent.

More preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of from about 0.5 weight percent to about 3.5 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have an acid content of from about 0.5 weight percent to about 3 weight percent, or from about 0.5 weight percent to about 2.5 weight percent.

Most preferably, the aerosol generating film has an acid content of from about 1 weight percent to about 3.5 weight percent. For example, the aerosol generating film may have an acid content of from about 1 weight percent to about 3 weight percent, or from about 1 weight percent to about 2.5 weight percent.

The aerosol generating film may contain one or more flavoring agents. For example, the aerosol generating film may contain one or more flavoring agents selected from the group consisting of terpenes and terpenoids. For example, the aerosol generating film may contain menthol, eugenol or eucalyptol.

The aerosol generating film may have a flavoring content of up to about 2 percent by weight.

The aerosol generating film can be formed by preparing a liquid film-forming composition containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol, casting or extruding the liquid film-forming composition onto a support, allowing the film-forming composition to cure, and then drying the film-forming composition with obtaining a film that generates an aerosol.

Preferably, the aerosol generating film is formed from an aqueous film-forming composition.

The heater assembly may be configured to heat the aerosol generating film to a temperature of from about 120 degrees Celsius to about 350 degrees Celsius to generate a respirable aerosol.

Preferably, the heater assembly is configured to heat the aerosol generating film to a temperature of from about 180 degrees Celsius to about 250 degrees Celsius to generate a respirable aerosol.

More preferably, the heater assembly is configured to heat the aerosol generating film to a temperature of from about 200 degrees Celsius to about 220 degrees Celsius to generate a respirable aerosol.

Preferably, the aerosol generating system contains at least about 20 milligrams of aerosol generating film. More preferably, the aerosol generating system contains at least about 50 milligrams of aerosol generating film. Most preferably, the aerosol generating system contains at least about 100 milligrams of aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating system may contain less than about 300 milligrams of aerosol generating film. For example, the aerosol generating system may contain less than about 200 milligrams of aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating system may contain from about 20 milligrams to about 300 milligrams of aerosol generating film. For example, the aerosol generating system may contain from about 20 milligrams to about 200 milligrams of aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating system may contain from about 50 milligrams to about 300 milligrams of aerosol generating film. For example, the aerosol generating system may contain from about 50 milligrams to about 200 milligrams of aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating system may contain from about 100 milligrams to about 300 milligrams of aerosol generating film. For example, the aerosol generating system may contain from about 100 milligrams to about 200 milligrams of aerosol generating film.

The heater assembly may be configured to heat the aerosol generating film by conduction to generate a respirable aerosol.

The heater assembly may be configured to heat the aerosol generating film by induction to generate a respirable aerosol.

The heater assembly may include one or more heating elements.

The heater assembly may include one or more flat surface heating elements.

The heater assembly may include one or more mesh heating elements.

The heater may include one or more electrically resistive heating elements. The heater may include one or more electrically resistive heating elements containing one or more electrically resistive materials. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically conductive ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made from ceramic material and metal material. Such composite materials may contain alloyed or unalloyed ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, gold and iron alloys, as well as heat-resistant alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal® and iron-manganese-aluminum alloys. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated within, or coated with the insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and the desired external physicochemical properties.

The heater assembly may include one or more inductive heating elements. The heater assembly may include one or more inductive heating elements comprising an inductor and a current collector. The inductor can generate an alternating or fluctuating electromagnetic field, which induces eddy currents in the pantograph. Heat can be generated in the current collector due to resistive losses (ohmic or resistive heating). If the pantograph is magnetic, heat can also be generated in the pantograph due to hysteresis losses. The pantograph can heat the aerosol-generating film through conduction.

The inductor may include an induction coil.

The current collector may contain ferromagnetic material. The current collector may contain ferritic material. The current collector may contain metallic material. For example, the pantograph may contain ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel, stainless steel or aluminum.

The heater assembly may include a plurality of heating elements. The control circuitry may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to each of the plurality of heating elements.

In embodiments in which the heater assembly includes a plurality of heating elements, the heating elements may be arranged to heat different portions of the aerosol generating film. In such embodiments, the controller may be configured to sequentially activate the heating elements in response to successive breaths of the user.

The control circuit may include a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, microcontroller, or application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or other electronic circuit capable of providing control.

The control circuit may contain additional electronic components. For example, the control circuit may include one or more sensors, one or more switches, one or more display elements, or any combination.

The control circuitry may include a sensor configured to detect a user's inhalation. The control circuitry may be configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user detected by the sensor.

The control circuit may include a flow sensor configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system.

The control circuitry may include a pressure sensor configured to detect changes in pressure that occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system.

The control circuitry may include a capacitive sensor configured to detect when a user makes contact with the aerosol generating system with his lips to effect a puff on the aerosol generating system. For example, the control circuit may include a capacitive sensor located adjacent to the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating system.

The control circuit may include a mechanism that can be activated by the user to indicate an inhalation of the user. For example, the control circuitry may include a switch that can be pressed by a user to indicate an inhalation by the user.

The aerosol generating system may include a power source.

The power source may include a battery. For example, the power source may comprise a lithium iron phosphate battery.

The power source may comprise a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery.

The power source may contain another type of charge storage device. For example, the power supply may include a capacitor.

The control circuitry may be configured to control the continuous supply of power from the power supply to the heating assembly in response to a user's inhalation.

The control circuitry may be configured to continuously control pulsing power from the power supply to the heating assembly in response to a user's inhalation.

The aerosol generating film may be located on a support.

The aerosol generating film may be placed on a flat support. For example, the aerosol generating film may be located on a substantially square, substantially rectangular, substantially circular planar support, or substantially annular planar support.

The aerosol generating film may be located on an elongated support. For example, the aerosol generating film may be located on a continuous or discontinuous elongated support strip.

The aerosol generating film may be located on a tubular support. For example, the aerosol generating film may be located on a substantially cylindrical tubular support.

The aerosol generating film may be located on a support made of any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the aerosol generating film may be located on a paper, glass or cardboard support.

The aerosol generating film may be located on a thermally conductive support. For example, the aerosol generating film may be located on a support comprising a support of metallized paper or metallized paperboard, or a support containing a metal foil laminate.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is located on a support, the heating assembly may be configured to heat the outer surface of the aerosol generating film.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "outer surface" is used to describe the surface of the aerosol generating film located on a support that is not in contact with the support.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is located on the support, the heating assembly may be configured to heat the interior surface of the support. Aerosol generating film

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "inner surface" is used to describe the surface of the support on which the aerosol generating film is located that is not in contact with the aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating system may include a drive assembly configured to move the aerosol generating film relative to the heater assembly.

The aerosol generating system may include a drive assembly configured to move the heater assembly relative to the aerosol generating film.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is located on a substantially circular flat support, the drive assembly may include a turntable on which the substantially circular flat support is mounted.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film is disposed on an elongated support belt, the drive assembly may comprise one or more rotatably mounted drums or reels around which at least a portion of the flexible strip of the elongated support belt is wound.

The control circuitry may be configured to activate the drive assembly between successive breaths of the user.

The aerosol generating system may comprise a plurality of spaced apart individual portions of the aerosol generating film located on a support.

The plurality of spaced individual pieces of aerosol generating film may comprise a regular linear array of spaced individual strips or strips of aerosol generating film.

The plurality of spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film comprises a regular two-dimensional array of spaced individual points or spots of the aerosol generating film.

The spaced dots or spots can have any suitable shape. For example, the spaced dots or spots may be substantially round, substantially square, or substantially rectangular.

The control circuitry may be configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat different spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user.

The control circuitry may be configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat different groups or reduced sets of a plurality of spaced apart individual portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user.

The control circuitry may be configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat one of a plurality of different spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user.

Each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film can provide enough respirable aerosol for one puff when heated.

Each of the plurality of spaced apart portions of the aerosol generating film may contain an equal amount of aerosol generating film.

The plurality of spaced apart individual aerosol generating film pieces may comprise two or more groups of spaced apart individual aerosol generating film pieces containing different amounts of aerosol generating film.

Each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 2 milligrams to about 30 milligrams of aerosol generating film. For example, each spaced apart portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 5 milligrams to about 20 milligrams of aerosol generating film, or from about 10 milligrams to about 20 milligrams of aerosol generating film.

Each of the plurality of spaced apart individual portions of the aerosol generating film may have the same composition.

The plurality of spaced apart individual aerosol generating film portions may comprise two or more groups of spaced apart individual aerosol generating film portions of different compositions.

For example, the plurality of spaced apart aerosol generating film portions may comprise: a first group of spaced apart aerosol generating film portions comprising a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener, a polyhydric alcohol, and nicotine; and a second group of spaced apart aerosol generating film portions comprising a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener, a polyhydric alcohol, and a flavoring agent.

Each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 90 micrograms to about 1200 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 90 micrograms to about 1000 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol or from about 90 micrograms to about 900 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 150 micrograms to about 850 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol, from about 150 micrograms to about 800 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol, or from about 150 micrograms to about 750 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol.

Preferably, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film contains from about 200 micrograms to about 750 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 200 micrograms to about 700 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol, from about 200 micrograms to about 650 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol, or from about 200 micrograms to about 600 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol.

More preferably, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film contains from about 250 micrograms to about 600 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 250 micrograms to about 550 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol, from about 250 micrograms to about 500 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol, or from about 250 micrograms to about 450 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol.

Most preferably, each spaced apart portion of the aerosol generating film contains from about 300 micrograms to about 450 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 300 micrograms to about 400 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol or from about 300 micrograms to about 350 micrograms of polyhydric alcohol.

In embodiments in which the aerosol generating film contains nicotine, each spaced apart portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 20 micrograms to about 150 micrograms of nicotine. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 20 micrograms to about 125 micrograms of nicotine, or from about 50 micrograms to about 125 micrograms of nicotine. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 20 micrograms to about 100 micrograms of nicotine, or from about 50 micrograms to about 100 micrograms of nicotine. For example, each spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film may contain from about 20 micrograms to about 75 micrograms of nicotine, or from about 50 micrograms to about 75 micrograms of nicotine.

The aerosol generating system may comprise from about 2 to about 40 spaced apart pieces of aerosol generating film located on a support.

In some embodiments, the number of spaced individual pieces of aerosol generating film located on the support may be equal to the average number of puffs for a combustible cigarette. For example, the aerosol generating system may comprise from about 7 to about 10 spaced apart individual pieces of aerosol generating film located on a support.

In some embodiments, the support may include one or more perforations or other lines of reduced strength to allow the user to select the desired number of spaced individual pieces of aerosol generating film.

The aerosol generating system may comprise: an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol generating film; and an aerosol generating device comprising a power supply and a control circuit.

As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term “aerosol generating article” is used to describe an article containing an aerosol generating film that is designed to heat, rather than burn, to release volatile compounds that can form an aerosol.

As used herein, in connection with the present invention, the term “aerosol generating device” is used to describe a device that cooperates with an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

The aerosol generating system may advantageously comprise: a consumable aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating film; and a reusable aerosol generating device comprising a power supply and a control circuit.

The aerosol generating system may comprise: an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating film; and an aerosol generating device comprising a heater assembly, a power supply and a control circuit.

The aerosol generating system may comprise: an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating film and a heater assembly; and an aerosol generating device comprising a power supply and a control circuit.

If applicable, the features described in relation to the aerosol generating system according to the first aspect of the present invention can be equally applied to the aerosol generating article according to the second aspect of the present invention and vice versa .

The present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of an aerosol generating system according to a first embodiment of the present invention containing an aerosol generating article according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of an aerosol generating system according to a second embodiment of the present invention containing an aerosol generating article according to a second embodiment of the present invention; FIG.

FIG. 3 is a schematic top view of an aerosol generating system according to a third embodiment of the present invention containing an aerosol generating article according to a third embodiment of the present invention; FIG.

FIG. 4 is a schematic top view of an aerosol generating system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention containing an aerosol generating article according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; FIG.

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention containing an aerosol generating article according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; FIG.

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention containing an aerosol generating article according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; FIG.

FIG. 7 shows (a) a schematic top view and (b) a schematic right elevation view of an aerosol generating system according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention; And

FIG. 8 shows (a) a schematic top view and (b) a schematic right elevation view of an aerosol generating system according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

The aerosol generating system according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1, contains a consumable aerosol generating article according to the first embodiment of the present invention and a reusable aerosol generating device.

A consumable aerosol generating article according to a first embodiment of the present invention comprises a tubular cylindrical support 2 and a plurality of longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual parts or strips of an aerosol generating film 4 disposed on an outer curved surface of the tubular cylindrical support 2. The tubular cylindrical support 2 can have a length of, for example, from about 30 mm to about 150 mm and an outer diameter of, for example, from about 5 mm to about 15 mm.

Each of a plurality of longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 contains 20 mg of aerosol generating film having the composition shown in Table 1:

Component: Content (weight percent) HPMC (cellulose film-forming agent) 19.3 Agar (non-cellulose thickener) 4.8 Glycerin (polyhydric alcohol) 48 Nicotine 1.4 Levulinic acid 2.1 Water 24.4

Table 1

The composition and amount of aerosol generating film in each of the longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 are the same. The aerosol generating film, in each of the longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual strips of the aerosol generating film 4, contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol. The amount of aerosol-generating film in each of the longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual strips of aerosol-generating film 4 is such that each longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual strip of aerosol-generating film 4 provides enough inhalable aerosol for one puff at heating

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly comprising a plurality of stationary elongated heating elements 6 for heating a plurality of longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. A plurality of stationary elongated heating elements 6 (shown by dash-dot lines in FIG. 1) are spaced circumferentially around the periphery of the outer curved surface of the tubular cylindrical support 2 such that each of the plurality of stationary elongated heating elements 6 is located adjacent to the outer surface of one of the different longitudinally extending, separate strips of film 4 spaced around the circumference, generating an aerosol. The plurality of stationary elongated heating elements 6 may be flat surface heaters or mesh heaters.

The reusable aerosol generating device further contains a power supply and a control circuit (not shown).

The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to each of the plurality of stationary elongated heating elements 6. The control circuit includes a flow sensor (not shown) configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the system, generating aerosol. The control circuit is configured to sequentially activate a plurality of stationary elongated heating elements 6 in response to successive breaths of the user detected by the flow sensor to sequentially heat one of different longitudinally spaced circumferentially spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 in response to successive breaths of the user .

It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the aerosol generating article may comprise a continuous layer of aerosol generating film located on the outer curved surface of the tubular cylindrical support 2 rather than a plurality of longitudinally extending, circumferentially spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4.

A consumable aerosol generating system according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 2, comprises a consumable aerosol generating article according to a second embodiment of the present invention and a reusable aerosol generating device.

An aerosol generating article according to a second embodiment of the present invention comprises a tubular cylindrical support 2 and a plurality of circumferentially, longitudinally spaced individual portions or rings of an aerosol generating film 4 disposed on an outer curved surface of the tubular cylindrical support 2. The tubular cylindrical support 2 may have a length of, for example, about 5 mm to about 150 mm; and an outer diameter, for example, of about 5 mm to about 15 mm. Depending on the dimensions of the tubular cylindrical support 2, up to, for example, 40 circumferential, longitudinally spaced individual rings of aerosol-generating film 4 can be located on the outer curved surface of the tubular cylindrical support 2.

The composition and amount of aerosol-generating film in each of the circumferential, longitudinally spaced individual rings of aerosol-generating film 4. The aerosol generating film, in each of the circumferential, longitudinally spaced individual rings of the aerosol generating film 4, contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol. The amount of aerosol generating film in each of the circumferentially spaced individual rings of aerosol generating film 4 is such that each circumferentially spaced individual ring of aerosol generating film 4 provides enough inhalable aerosol for one puff at heating

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly comprising a plurality of stationary annular heating elements 6 for heating circumferentially spaced individual rings of aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. A plurality of stationary annular heating elements 6 are spaced longitudinally around the periphery of the outer curved surface of the tubular cylindrical support 2 such that each of the plurality of stationary annular heating elements 6 is located adjacent to the outer surface of one of the different circumferentially spaced longitudinally spaced individual rings of film 4, generating aerosol. The plurality of stationary ring heating elements 6 may be flat surface heaters or mesh heaters.

The reusable aerosol generating device further contains a power supply and a control circuit (not shown).

The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to each of the plurality of stationary annular heating elements 6. The control circuit includes a flow sensor (not shown) configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the system, generating aerosol. The control circuit is configured to sequentially activate a plurality of stationary annular heating elements 6 in response to successive breaths of the user detected by the flow sensor to sequentially heat one of the different circumferential, longitudinally spaced individual rings of aerosol generating film 4 in response to successive breaths of the user .

It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the aerosol generating article may comprise a continuous layer of aerosol generating film located on the outer curved surface of the tubular cylindrical support 2 rather than a plurality of circumferentially spaced, individual rings of aerosol generating film 4.

The aerosol generating system according to the third embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 3, contains a consumable aerosol generating article according to a third embodiment of the present invention and a reusable aerosol generating device.

A consumable aerosol generating article according to a third embodiment of the present invention comprises a flat support 2 and a regular linear array of spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 disposed on an upper surface of the flat support 2. The spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 may have a width a length of, for example, from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, and a length, for example, from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. Depending on the dimensions of the flat support 2, up to, for example, 40 spaced apart individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 can be located on the top surface of the flat support 2.

The composition and amount of aerosol generating film in each of the spaced apart individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 are the same. The aerosol generating film, in each of the spaced apart individual strips of aerosol generating film 4, contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol. The amount of aerosol generating film in each of the spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 is such that each spaced individual strip of aerosol generating film 4 provides enough respirable aerosol for one puff when heated.

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly containing a plurality of stationary elongated heating elements (not shown) for heating a regular linear array of spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. A plurality of stationary elongated heating elements are located adjacent the bottom surface of the flat support 2 and spaced apart such that each of the plurality of stationary elongated heating elements is located directly below one of the different spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4. The plurality of stationary elongated heating elements may be flat surface heaters or mesh heaters.

The reusable aerosol generating device further contains a power supply and a control circuit (not shown).

The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to each of the plurality of stationary elongated heating elements. The control circuit includes a flow sensor (not shown) configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system. The control circuit is configured to sequentially activate a plurality of stationary elongated heating elements in response to successive breaths of the user detected by the flow sensor to sequentially heat one of the different spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 in response to successive breaths of the user.

As shown in FIG. 3, perforation lines 8 or other lines of reduced strength may be provided in the planar support 2 between the spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 to allow the user to select the desired number of spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 for heating and hence the desired number of puffs and the desired overall aerosol delivery.

The aerosol generating system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 4, contains a consumable aerosol generating article according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention and a reusable aerosol generating device.

The consumable aerosol generating article according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 4 is similar to the aerosol generating article according to the third embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 2, but contains a regular two-dimensional array of spaced individual points of the generating film 4 aerosol located on a flat support 2, rather than a regular linear array of spaced individual strips of film generating an aerosol.

As shown in FIG. 4, the spaced points of the aerosol generating film 4 may be substantially square or substantially circular. The spaced dots of the aerosol generating film 4 may have a surface area of, for example, from about 25 mm ² to about 400 mm ² , and a length, for example, from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. Depending on the dimensions of the flat support 2, up to, for example, 40 spaced apart individual points of the aerosol generating film 4 can be located on the upper surface of the flat support 2.

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly containing a plurality of stationary heating elements (not shown) for heating a regular two-dimensional array of spaced individual points of the aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. A plurality of stationary heating elements are located adjacent the bottom surface of the flat support 2 and spaced apart such that each of the plurality of stationary heating elements is located directly below one of the various spaced individual points of the aerosol generating film 4. The plurality of stationary elongated heating elements may be flat surface heaters or mesh heaters.

The reusable aerosol generating device further contains a power supply and a control circuit (not shown).

The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to each of the plurality of stationary elongated heating elements. The control circuit includes a flow sensor (not shown) configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system. The control circuit is configured to sequentially activate a plurality of stationary heating elements in response to successive breaths of the user detected by the flow sensor to sequentially heat one of different spaced individual points of the aerosol generating film 4 in response to successive breaths of the user.

As shown in FIG. 4, perforation lines 8 or other lines of reduced strength may be provided in the planar support 2 between the spaced individual points of the aerosol generating film 4 to allow the user to select the desired number of spaced individual points of the aerosol generating film 4 for heating and hence the desired number of puffs and the desired overall aerosol delivery.

It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the heater assembly may comprise a plurality of stationary elongated heating elements for heating a regular two-dimensional array of spaced individual spots of the aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. A plurality of stationary elongated heating elements may be positioned adjacent the bottom surface of the flat support 2 and spaced apart such that each of the plurality of stationary elongated heating elements is located directly below a different row or column of spaced individual points of the aerosol generating film 4. The control circuitry may be configured to sequentially activate a plurality of stationary elongated heating elements in response to successive breaths of the user detected by the flow sensor to sequentially heat a different row or column of spaced individual points of the aerosol generating film 4 in response to successive breaths of the user.

The aerosol generating system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 6, contains a consumable aerosol generating article according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention and a reusable aerosol generating device.

The consumable aerosol generating article according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 5 is the same as the aerosol generating article according to the third embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 3, and includes a flat support 2 and a regular linear an array of spaced individual strips of film 4, generating an aerosol, located on the upper surface of the flat support 2.

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly containing a plurality of elongated heating elements 6 for heating a regular linear array of spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. The heating assembly is hinged to the flat support 2. By rotating the heating assembly, the elongated heating elements 6 can be positioned adjacent to the top surface of the flat support 2 and spaced so that each of the plurality of elongated heating elements is located directly above one of the different spaced individual strips of film 4, generating an aerosol. The plurality of elongated heating elements may be flat surface heaters or mesh heaters.

The reusable aerosol generating device further contains a power supply and a control circuit (not shown).

The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to each of the plurality of stationary elongated heating elements. The control circuit includes a flow sensor 10 configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system. The control circuit is configured to sequentially activate a plurality of elongated heating elements in response to successive breaths of the user detected by the flow sensor to sequentially heat one of the different spaced individual strips of aerosol generating film 4 in response to successive breaths of the user.

The aerosol generating system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 6, contains a consumable aerosol generating article according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention and a reusable aerosol generating device.

An aerosol generating consumable article according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention comprises a continuous elongated support strip 2 and a plurality of longitudinally spaced individual parts of an aerosol generating film 4 disposed on an outer surface of the continuous elongated support strip 2. As shown in FIG. 6, the continuous elongated support strip the belt 2 is wound around a pair of spaced apart drums or wheels 12. The wheels 12 may have an outer diameter of, for example, from about 20 mm to about 80 mm. The continuous elongated support strip 2 may have a length of, for example, from about 150 mm to about 650 mm. Depending on the dimensions of the continuous elongated support strip 2, up to, for example, 40 longitudinally spaced individual parts of the aerosol generating film 4 can be located on the outer surface of the elongated support strip 2.

The composition and amount of the aerosol generating film in each of the longitudinally spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film 4 are the same. The aerosol generating film in each of the longitudinally spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film 4 contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol. The amount of aerosol generating film in each of the longitudinally spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film 4 is such that each longitudinally spaced individual portion of the aerosol generating film 4 provides enough respirable aerosol for one puff when heated.

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly comprising a heating element 6 for heating the aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. The heating element 6 is located adjacent the inner surface of the continuous elongated support strip 2. The heating element 6 may be a flat surface heater or a mesh heater.

The reusable aerosol-generating device additionally contains a power supply, a control circuit and a drive unit (not shown).

The drive unit is configured to drive one or both wheels 12 to move the continuous elongated support belt 2 relative to the heating element 6.

The control circuit includes a flow sensor (not shown) configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system. The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating element 6 in response to a user's inhalation detected by the flow sensor. The control circuit is configured to activate the drive unit between successive breaths of the user to move the continuous elongated support strip 2 relative to the heating element 6 between successive breaths of the user. By moving the continuous elongated support strip 2 relative to the heating element 6 between successive breaths of the user, the control circuit is capable of activating the heating element 6 to sequentially heat different longitudinally spaced portions of the aerosol generating film 4 located on the outer surface of the continuous elongated support strip 2 in response to successive breaths of the user.

It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the aerosol generating article may comprise a continuous layer of aerosol generating film located on the outer surface of the elongated support strip 2 rather than a plurality of longitudinally spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film 4.

It should also be understood that in alternative embodiments, the elongated support strip 2 may be wound on a supply reel and attached to a take-up reel, which is initially empty and which is driven by a drive assembly to move the continuous elongated support strip 2 relative to the heating element 6. B In such embodiments, the reusable aerosol generating article may resemble a cassette tape.

It should also be understood that in alternative embodiments, the aerosol generating film may be located on the outer surface of the discontinuous elongated support strip.

It should also be understood that in alternative embodiments, the consumable aerosol generating article may comprise a heater assembly comprising a heating element rather than a reusable aerosol generating device.

The aerosol generating system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 7, contains a consumable aerosol-generating article and a reusable aerosol-generating device.

The aerosol generating consumable article comprises a flat substantially square support 2 and an aerosol generating film 4 disposed on an upper surface of the flat substantially square support 2. The flat substantially square support 2 may have a length and a width of, for example, between about 5 mm to approximately 80 mm.

The aerosol generating film 4 contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol.

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly comprising a flat rectangular heating element 6 for heating the aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. A flat rectangular heating element 6 (shown as a dashed line in (a) the schematic plan view of FIG. 7) is located adjacent the bottom surface of a flat, substantially square support 2. The flat rectangular heating element 6 may be a flat surface heater or a mesh heater.

The reusable aerosol-generating device additionally contains a power supply, a control circuit and a drive unit (not shown).

The drive unit is configured to move the flat rectangular heating element 6 relative to the flat essentially square support 2.

The control circuit includes a flow sensor (not shown) configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system. The control circuitry is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the flat rectangular heating element 6 in response to a user's inhalation detected by the flow sensor. The control circuitry is configured to activate the drive assembly between successive breaths of the user to move the flat rectangular heating element 6 relative to the flat substantially square support 2 between successive breaths of the user. By moving the flat rectangular heating element 6 relative to the flat substantially square support 2 between successive breaths of the user, the control circuit is capable of activating the flat rectangular heating element 6 to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating film 4 located on the top surface of the flat substantially square support 2 , in response to the user's successive breaths.

It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the flat support 2 may have a different shape. For example, the flat support 2 may be substantially rectangular or substantially circular.

It should also be understood that in alternative embodiments, the control circuitry and drive assembly may be configured to move the planar support 2 relative to the planar heating element 6 between successive breaths of the user.

The aerosol generating system according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 8, contains a consumable aerosol-generating article and a reusable aerosol-generating device.

The aerosol generating consumable article includes a flat annular support 2 and an aerosol generating film 4 located on the upper surface of the flat annular support 2. The aerosol generating film 4 contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol. The flat annular support 2 may have an outer diameter of, for example, from about 30 mm to about 150 mm.

The reusable aerosol generating device includes a heater assembly comprising a flat trapezoidal heating element 6 for heating the aerosol generating film 4 to generate a respirable aerosol. The flat trapezoidal heating element 6 (shown as a dashed line in (a) the schematic plan view of FIG. 8) is located adjacent to the bottom surface of the flat ring support 2. The flat trapezoidal heating element 6 may be a flat surface heater or a mesh heater.

The reusable aerosol-generating device additionally contains a power supply, a control circuit and a drive unit (not shown).

The drive unit is configured to rotate the flat annular support 2 relative to the flat trapezoidal heating element 6.

The control circuit includes a flow sensor (not shown) configured to detect changes in air flow that may occur when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system. The control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the flat trapezoidal heating element 6 in response to a user's inhalation detected by the flow sensor. The control circuit is configured to activate the drive unit between successive breaths of the user to rotate the flat annular support 2 relative to the flat trapezoidal heating element 6 between successive breaths of the user. By rotating the flat ring support 2 relative to the flat trapezoidal heating element 6 between successive breaths of the user, the control circuit is capable of activating the flat trapezoidal heating element 6 to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating film 4 located on the upper surface of the flat ring support 2 in response to successive breaths of the user.

It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the control circuit and drive assembly may be configured to rotate the flat trapezoidal heating element 6 relative to the ring support 2 between successive breaths of the user.

Claims (24)

1. An aerosol generating system containing: an aerosol generating film containing a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyhydric alcohol; a heater unit for heating the aerosol generating film to generate a respirable aerosol; power unit; And a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heater assembly in response to a user's inhalation, wherein the cellulose-based film-forming agent is a cellulose ether, and the control circuitry is configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat different portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user. 2. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the heater assembly comprises a plurality of heating elements and the control circuitry is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to each of the plurality of heating elements. 3. The aerosol generating system of claim 2, wherein the heating elements are configured to heat different portions of the aerosol generating film, and the controller is configured to sequentially activate the heating elements in response to successive breaths of the user. 4. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims. 1-3, comprising a drive assembly configured to move the aerosol generating film relative to the heater assembly. 5. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims. 1-3, containing a drive unit configured to move the heater unit relative to the aerosol-generating film. 6. The aerosol generating system according to claim 4, wherein the drive assembly is configured to move the heater assembly relative to the aerosol generating film. 7. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims. 4-6, wherein the control circuit is configured to activate the drive assembly between successive breaths of the user. 8. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims. 1-7, comprising a plurality of spaced apart individual pieces of aerosol generating film located on a support. 9. The aerosol generating system of claim 8, wherein the control circuitry is configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat different spaced individual portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user. 10. The aerosol generating system of claim 9, wherein the control circuitry is configured to activate the heater assembly to sequentially heat one of a plurality of different spaced apart portions of the aerosol generating film in response to successive breaths of the user. 11. An aerosol-generating product containing: support; And a plurality of spaced individual parts of the aerosol generating film located on the support, wherein each spaced apart portion of the aerosol generating film contains a cellulose-based film-forming agent, a non-cellulose-based thickener and a polyol, and wherein the cellulose-based film-forming agent is a cellulose ether. 12. The aerosol generating product of claim 11, wherein the plurality of spaced individual aerosol generating film pieces comprises a regular linear array of spaced individual strips or strips of aerosol generating film. 13. The aerosol generating article of claim 11 or 12, wherein the plurality of spaced individual aerosol generating film portions comprises a regular two-dimensional array of spaced individual aerosol generating film dots or spots. 14. An aerosol-generating product according to any one of paragraphs. 11-13, wherein each spaced apart individual portion of the aerosol generating film provides enough respirable aerosol for one puff when heated. 15. An aerosol-generating product according to any one of claims. 11-14, wherein each spaced apart portion of the aerosol generating film has a polyhydric alcohol content of at least 40 percent by weight. 16. An aerosol-generating product according to any one of paragraphs. 11-15, wherein each spaced apart portion of the aerosol generating film has a nicotine content of at least 0.5 percent by weight.