Induction heating module for use in aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The invention relates to an induction heating module for alternative use with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, the first article comprising a susceptor of a first type for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, the second article includes a susceptor of a second type for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article. The induction heating module includes a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of a first aerosol-generating article or a second aerosol-generating article; and an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field to inductively heat a corresponding susceptor of the first article or the second article when the first article or the second article is received in the cavity. The induction heating module also includes a magnetic flux concentrator arrangement comprising a transferable flux concentrator transferable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration such that an alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is selectively concentrated in the first region or the second region within the cavity. When the first article is received in the cavity, the first region is associated with a size and / or a location in the cavity of a susceptor of the first type, and when the second article is received in the cavity, the second region is associated with a size and / or a location in the cavity of a susceptor of the second type. The present application also relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising such an induction heating module and to an aerosol-generating system comprising such a device and at least one first article and at least one second article.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an induction heating module for an induction-heated aerosol-generating device, the induction heating module being configured for selective use with at least two different types of induction-heatable aerosol-generating articles. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising such an induction heating module. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising such a device and at least one aerosol-generating article of a first type and at least one aerosol-generating article of a second type.

[0002] Aerosol generating devices using induction heating for generating an inhalable aerosol are generally known from the prior art. These devices may comprise an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field for inducing at least one of thermal eddy currents or hysteresis losses in a susceptor, which causes the susceptor to heat up. The susceptor is in turn arranged in thermal proximity to or in direct physical contact with an aerosol-forming substrate, which is capable of forming an inhalable aerosol when heated. The susceptor and substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article which is at least partially receivable within a cavity of the device. The cavity and induction coil may be part of an induction heating module, which may form one of several components comprising the device.

[0003] The heating process essentially depends on the field distribution of the alternating magnetic field in the cavity, which ideally must be appropriately matched to the susceptor size and the position of the susceptor in the cavity. For example, an article comprising an elongated susceptor element embedded in a solid aerosol-forming substrate may require a correspondingly elongated field distribution. In contrast, an article having a compact susceptor in contact with a liquid aerosol-forming substrate that will aerosolize in a short time may require a fairly strong field concentrated on the susceptor. As these two examples show, the article-specific requirements for the magnetic field distribution can often differ significantly. For this reason, aerosol-generating devices using induction heating are usually designed for use with only one type of aerosol-generating article.

[0004] In general, it is desirable to have an induction heating module and an induction-heated aerosol-generating device that have the advantages of prior art solutions while alleviating their limitations. In particular, it is desirable to have an induction heating module and an induction-heated aerosol-generating device that are configured for use with at least two different types of induction-heatable aerosol-generating articles.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an induction heating module for use with either a first induction-heatable aerosol-generating article or a second induction-heatable aerosol-generating article, that is, an induction heating module for use with either a first type of induction-heatable aerosol-generating article or a second type of induction-heatable aerosol-generating article, wherein a first article (article of the first type) comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, and a second article (article of the second type) comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article. The induction heating module comprises a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of the first aerosol-generating article or the second aerosol-generating article. The induction heating module further comprises an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field to inductively heat the respective susceptor of the first article or the second article when the first article or the second article is received in the cavity. Additionally, the induction heating module includes a magnetic flux concentrator device comprising a transferable flux concentrator that is transferable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration such that an alternating magnetic field from the induction coil is selectively concentrated in a first region or a second region within the chamber. When a first product is received in the chamber, the first region is associated with a size and / or position of a first type of susceptor in the chamber. When a second product is received in the chamber, the second region is associated with a size and / or position of a second type of susceptor in the chamber.

[0006] It is possible that the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between a first configuration and a second configuration to modify the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between being concentrated in a first region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration and being concentrated in a second region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the second configuration. It is possible that the modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between being concentrated in the first region within the cavity and being concentrated in the second region within the cavity is caused by transferring the transferable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration without changing the position of the induction coil relative to the cavity. It is possible that the modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between being concentrated in the first region within the cavity and being concentrated in the second region within the cavity is caused entirely by transferring the transferable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0007] As used herein, the terms "first aerosol-generating article" and "second aerosol-generating article" should be understood to mean two articles of different types or two different types of aerosol-generating articles, ie a first type of aerosol-generating article and a second type of aerosol-generating article.

[0008] According to the present invention, it has been discovered that a universal induction heating module for use with different types of induction-heatable articles can be readily implemented by implementing a transferable flux concentrator that is capable of modifying the characteristics of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil within the chamber, depending on the type of article received in the chamber. Advantageously, the characteristics of the magnetic field can be modified so that, when an article of the corresponding type is received in the chamber, the magnetic field is concentrated to the corresponding region within the chamber occupied by the corresponding susceptor of the particular article type. For example, when a first article (a first type of article) to be used with the induction heating module comprises a first type of susceptor, which is a compact susceptor for heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the transferable flux concentrator can be arranged in a first configuration such that, when the first article is received in the chamber, the magnetic field generated by the induction coil is concentrated to a small first region where the first type of susceptor is located during use. Because the field is concentrated in a small region, the magnetic flux within the first region can be increased, which, among other things, allows for instantaneous heating of liquid substrates on a puff-by-puff basis (puff-on-demand). In contrast, when the second article (article of the second type) to be used with the heating module comprises, for example, a second type of susceptor, which is an elongated, in particular strip-shaped, susceptor element to be heated continuously, the transferable flux concentrator can be transferred to a second configuration (different from the first configuration) so that when the second article (article of the second type) is received in the cavity, the magnetic field is spread over a corresponding elongated second area (different from the first area) within the cavity, the second area matching the cavity position and size of the second type of elongated susceptor.

[0009] Overall, the proposed transferable flux concentrator allows a single aerosol-generating device equipped therewith to be used with a wider variety of different aerosol-generating articles, without having to use a separate device for each type of article.

[0010] As used herein, the terms "magnetic flux concentrator device", "transferable flux concentrator" and "fixed flux concentrator" (see below) each refer to a device or component comprising a material having a high relative magnetic permeability for guiding and concentrating the magnetic field or magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil. In this regard, the term "high relative magnetic permeability" refers to a relative magnetic permeability of at least 50 or 100, in particular at least 1000, preferably at least 10000, even more preferably at least 50000, most preferably at least 80000. These example values ​​refer to the maximum value of the relative magnetic permeability for frequencies up to 50 kHz and a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. The term "relative magnetic permeability" refers to the ratio of the magnetic permeability of a material or medium (such as a flux concentrator) to the magnetic permeability μ_0 of free space, where μ_0 is 4π·10 -7 N.A. -2 (4·Pi·10E-07 newtons per square ampere).

[0011] As used herein, the terms "transferable flux concentrator" and "flux concentrator transferable between a first configuration and a second configuration" may each refer to different types of transferability. In particular, these terms may include "displacing the flux concentrator / the flux concentrator is transferable between a first position and a second position" or "changing the spatial shape of the flux concentrator / the spatial shape of the flux concentrator is changeable between a first configuration and a second configuration." In this regard, "displaceable" may refer to mechanical displacement, in particular a change in the position of the center of mass of the transferable flux concentrator. Similarly, "changing the spatial shape of the flux concentrator" may include deformation of the transferable flux concentrator, such as bending, extending, or compressing the transferable flux concentrator, or a change in the spatial arrangement of multiple flux concentrator elements forming the transferable flux concentrator relative to each other.

[0012] As defined above, the first region is configured such that, when the first article is received in the cavity, it matches at least one of the size of the first type of susceptor and the cavity location of the first type of susceptor. In particular, the first region may have a length extension along the longitudinal axis of the cavity that is similar to the length extension of the first type of susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. Similarly, the first region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity that is similar to the lateral extension of the first type of susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. For example, the first region may have a length extension along the longitudinal axis of the cavity that ranges from 2 mm to 7 mm, particularly from 3 mm to 5 mm. Similarly, the first region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity that ranges from 1 mm to 5 mm, particularly from 2 mm to 3 mm. Vice versa, the second region is configured such that, when the second article is received in the cavity, it matches at least one of the size of the second type of susceptor and the cavity location of the second type of susceptor. In particular, the second region may have a length extension along the longitudinal axis of the cavity that is similar to the length extension of the second type of susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. Likewise, the second region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity that is similar to the lateral extension of the second type of susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. For example, the second region may have a length extension along the longitudinal axis of the cavity in the range of 4 mm to 12 mm, in particular, in the range of 5 mm to 8 mm. Likewise, the second region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm, in particular, in the range of 3 mm to 4 mm.

[0013] The transferable flux concentrator can be configured such that it is transferable from a first configuration to a second configuration, and preferably also from the second configuration to or towards the first configuration, by user interaction, in particular manual interaction. To this end, the magnetic flux concentrator device may include a transfer mechanism, such as a slider or a push rod coupled to the transferable flux concentrator.

[0014] Preferably, the transferable flux concentrator is configured such that it can be transferred from a first configuration to a second configuration by inserting a second article (article of the second type) into the cavity. Advantageously, this enables the device to be automatically adapted for use with the second article (article of the second type) without the user having to take any additional action. To this end, the transferable flux concentrator can be constructed and arranged to mechanically interact with the second article when the second article is inserted into the cavity to transfer from the first configuration to the second configuration. Details and examples of the mechanical interaction between the second article and the transferable flux concentrator are further described below.

[0015] Furthermore, the transferable flux concentrator can be configured such that it can be transferred from the second configuration to the first configuration or towards the first configuration by removing the second article from the chamber. Thus, the device can be automatically (re)adapted / (re)configured for use with the first article (article of the first type), again without the user having to take any additional action.

[0016] The transfer of the transferable flux concentrator from the second configuration to the first configuration or towards the first configuration can be achieved in different ways.

[0017] The transferable flux concentrator may also be configured and arranged to mechanically interact with the second article when the second article is removed from the chamber so as to transfer from the second configuration toward or to the first configuration.

[0018] Alternatively or in addition, the magnetic flux concentrator device may comprise a return mechanism configured and arranged to transfer the transferable flux concentrator from the second configuration towards or to the first configuration when the second article is removed from the cavity.

[0019] Preferably, the return mechanism comprises at least one spring biasing the transferable flux concentrator toward or into the first configuration. Thus, when the second product is removed from the chamber, the transferable flux concentrator automatically returns from the second configuration toward or into the first configuration.

[0020] The spring can be attached to the distal end wall of the cavity. In this way, the distal end wall of the cavity can act as a stop for the spring, so that when a second article is inserted into the cavity (e.g., in a distal direction through the proximal insertion opening of the cavity) and the second article mechanically interacts with the transferable flux concentrator, the spring can be compressed. As used herein, the section closer to the insertion opening or closer to the user's mouth, respectively, during use, is indicated by the prefix "proximal." Sections located further away are indicated by the prefix "distal."

[0021] In the case of a transferable flux concentrator being displaced between a first configuration and a second configuration, in particular between a first position and a second position, the displacement trajectory may depend on the shape and configuration of the cavity. In the case of a cavity having a length axis, the transferable flux concentrator may be transferable between a first position corresponding to the first configuration and a second position corresponding to the second configuration by movement along the length axis of the cavity. If the length axis of the article is linear / straight, the deliverable flux concentrator may be transferable between a first position corresponding to the first configuration and a second position corresponding to the second configuration by linear / straight movement along the length axis of the cavity (displaceable linearly or along a linear / straight trajectory).

[0022] It may be the case that the induction coil is a stationary induction coil.

[0023] It is possible that the induction coil is arranged fixedly relative to the cavity.

[0024] It is possible that the transferable flux concentrator is movable relative to the induction coil. For example, where the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between a first configuration and a second configuration by being displaceable between a first position and a second position, it is possible that the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between a first configuration and a second configuration by being displaceable between a first position and a second position relative to the induction coil. It is possible that the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between a first configuration and a second configuration by being displaceable between a first position and a second position relative to the induction coil to thereby modify the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between being concentrated in a first region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the first position and being concentrated in a second region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the second position.

[0025] Where the transferable flux concentrator is inserted into and removed from the cavity in a distal direction, e.g., through a proximal insertion opening of the cavity, the first position is more proximal and the second position is more distal relative to the proximal insertion opening of the cavity.

[0026] The transferable flux concentrator can have any shape and structure that allows for transferability between a first configuration and a second configuration. Specifically, if transferable, the transferable flux concentrator can include a solid flux concentrator body, preferably a single solid flux concentrator body. Advantageously, a solid flux concentrator body is easy to manufacture. Additionally, a solid flux concentrator body provides enhanced robustness, particularly if the transferable flux concentrator is configured to mechanically interact with, for example, contact, a second article.

[0027] As mentioned above, as used herein, the terms "magnetic flux concentrator device," "transferable flux concentrator," and "fixed flux concentrator" (see below) each refer to a device or component comprising a material having a high relative magnetic permeability for guiding and concentrating the magnetic field or magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil. Thus, the transferable flux concentrator preferably comprises, and is made of, one or more materials having a relative magnetic permeability of at least 100, in particular at least 1000, preferably at least 10,000, even more preferably at least 50,000, and most preferably at least 80,000. These values ​​preferably refer to the maximum value of the relative magnetic permeability at a frequency of up to 50 kHz and a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. In this regard, the transferable flux concentrator may comprise or be made of any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the transportable flux concentrator, in particular the solid flux concentrator body of the transportable flux concentrator, comprises a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material, such as ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic particles or ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic powder holding a ferrite material, such as ferrite particles or ferrite powder held in a matrix, or any other suitable material, including ferromagnetic materials such as iron, ferromagnetic steel, iron-silicon, or ferromagnetic stainless steel. The matrix may include a binder, such as a polymer, such as silicone. Thus, the matrix may be a polymer matrix, such as a silicone matrix. The ferromagnetic material may include at least one metal selected from iron, nickel, and cobalt, and combinations thereof, and may contain other elements, such as chromium, copper, molybdenum, manganese, aluminum, titanium, vanadium, tungsten, tantalum, and silicon. The ferromagnetic material may include approximately 78% to approximately 82% nickel by weight, 0% to 7% molybdenum by weight, with the remainder being iron. As an example, the transportable flux concentrator, in particular the solid flux concentrator body of the transportable flux concentrator, may include or be made of permalloy. Permalloy is a nickel-iron magnetic alloy that typically contains additional elements such as molybdenum, copper, and / or chromium. As another example, a transferable flux concentrator, particularly the solid flux concentrator body of a transferable flux concentrator, may comprise or be made of mu-metal. Mu-metal is a nickel-iron soft ferromagnetic alloy with extremely high magnetic permeability, particularly about 80,000 to 100,000. For example, mu-metal may contain approximately 77% nickel, 16% iron, 5% copper, and 2% chromium or molybdenum by weight. Similarly, mu-metal may contain 80% nickel, 5% molybdenum, small amounts of various other elements, such as silicon, and the remaining 12 to 15% iron by weight.

[0028] Materials with high relative magnetic permeability are generally fragile and can therefore easily break into pieces when exposed to excessive force impacts, so the integrity of the magnetic flux concentrator may be lost, resulting in a reduction in the magnetic flux passing through the broken flux concentrator. As a remedy, the transferable flux concentrator, in particular the solid flux concentrator body of the transferable flux concentrator, can be at least partially coated with an adhesive layer. Advantageously, the adhesive layer can serve as a support layer that is fixedly coupled to at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator (the solid flux concentrator body of the transferable flux concentrator). Due to its strong coupling, the adhesive layer keeps any fragments of the transferable flux concentrator bonded, that is, keeps them in place in the event that the flux concentrator breaks into pieces. In this regard, it has been recognized that the function of the transferable flux concentrator may still be sufficient if the fragments of the transferable magnetic flux concentrator are close together so as to still be able to effectively concentrate the magnetic flux. In addition to its bonding function, the adhesive layer can also have shock-absorbing properties. Advantageously, this may even allow preventing the transferable flux concentrator from breaking and thus protecting its integrity in case of excessive force impacts.

[0029] The bonding layer may be firmly coupled to at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator by at least one of the following means or processes: gluing, cladding, welding, electroplating, deposition and coating, in particular dip coating or roller coating or evaporation coating.

[0030] Preferably, the bonding layer is a coating that covers at least a portion of the surface of the transferable flux concentrator. Advantageously, the coating can be easily applied after the deliverable flux concentrator is manufactured but before the induction heating module is assembled. The coating process advantageously produces a uniform bond across most of the surface of the transferable flux concentrator, or even the entire surface.

[0031] The bonding layer may have a layer thickness ranging from 0.1 μm to 200 μm, in particular from 0.2 μm to 150 μm, preferably from 0.5 μm to 100 μm. Alternatively, the bonding layer may have a layer thickness ranging from 0.5 μm to 200 μm. Advantageously, such a layer thickness does not substantially affect the outer dimensions of the transferable flux concentrator.

[0032] Preferably, the bonding layer is a polymer bonding layer. The polymer bonding layer proves to be advantageous because it is flexible and therefore shockproof. In addition, the polymer bonding layer can allow simple processing. The bonding layer can comprise poly (p-xylene) polymer or be composed of poly (p-xylene) polymer, particularly poly (p-xylene) polymer of chemical vapor deposition. For example, the bonding layer can comprise poly (p-xylene) or be composed of poly (p-xylene), for example, one of poly (p-xylene) C, poly (p-xylene) N, poly (p-xylene) D or poly (p-xylene) HT. The term "parylene" represents a group of poly (p-xylene) polymers, particularly poly (p-xylene) polymers of chemical vapor deposition, which are commonly used as moisture and dielectric barriers. Parylene is biostable and biocompatible, and has been approved for medical applications (FDA [Food and Drug Administration] certification). Parylene is optically transparent, flexible and chemically inert, and therefore provides a high degree of corrosion protection. Parylene is thermally stable and, depending on the specific parylene type, has a melting point above 290 degrees Celsius or even higher. This makes parylene particularly suitable for use in induction heating aerosol generating systems. Advantageously, parylene can be used as a film or coating, in particular for application to a variety of substrates, such as metals, glass, varnishes, plastic materials, ferritic materials or silicones. Preferably, the parylene coating can be applied to the substrate as a non-porous and transparent polymer film by resublimation from the gas phase under vacuum, in particular at room temperature (e.g. 20 degrees Celsius). This process can provide a uniform layer formation that is mechanically stable, wear-resistant, generates low mechanical stresses and does not show outgassing. In addition, evaporative coating under vacuum allows the simultaneous coating of multiple substrates, making the process suitable for batch production.

[0033] In addition to the transferable flux concentrator, the magnetic flux concentrator arrangement may comprise a fixed flux concentrator. Preferably, the fixed flux concentrator is arranged and configured to have an overall concentrating function, in particular to conduct the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil towards the interior space of the entire cavity.

[0034] To this end, the fixed flux concentrator is preferably arranged around at least a portion of the cavity. Similarly, the fixed flux concentrator can be arranged around at least a portion of the induction coil, in particular around at least a portion of the outer periphery of the induction coil, especially when the induction coil is arranged around at least a portion of the cavity, in particular around at least a portion of the outer periphery of the cavity. In this configuration, the fixed flux concentrator can most effectively conduct the alternating magnetic field and concentrate the alternating magnetic field into the internal space of the cavity. In addition, the arrangement of the fixed flux concentrator around at least a portion of the induction coil advantageously reduces the extent to which the magnetic field propagates beyond the induction coil. That is, the fixed flux concentrator also acts as a magnetic shield. This can reduce the undesirable heating of adjacent sensitive parts (e.g., a metal housing) of the induction heating module or the aerosol generating device for which the module will be used. This configuration also helps to reduce the undesirable heating of adjacent sensitive items outside the induction heating module or the aerosol generating device for which the module will be used. In general, the efficiency of the induction heating module can be further improved by reducing undesirable heating losses.

[0035] In general, the fixed flux concentrator can have any shape, but preferably has a shape that matches the shape of the induction coil and / or the shape of the cavity around which the fixed flux concentrator is preferably arranged at least partially. For example, the fixed flux concentrator can have a substantially cylindrical shape, in particular a sleeve shape or a tubular shape. That is, the fixed flux concentrator can be a tubular fixed flux concentrator or a fixed flux concentrator sleeve or a cylindrical fixed flux concentrator. Such a shape is particularly suitable when the induction coil has a substantially cylindrical shape, in particular when the induction coil is a spiral induction coil having a substantially cylindrical shape. Similarly, a tubular, sleeve or cylindrical shape can also prove advantageous for the cylindrical shape of the cavity.

[0036] In this regard, it should be mentioned that the induction coil can have a substantially cylindrical shape. In particular, the induction coil can be a cylindrical spiral coil. Likewise, the cavity can have a substantially cylindrical shape. Preferably, the induction coil has an axial length extension that is similar to the axial length extension of at least one of the first type and the second type of susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the interior space of the induction coil. For example, the induction coil can have an axial length ranging from 4 mm to 12 mm, in particular from 5 mm to 8 mm.

[0037] In the above configuration, the fixed flux concentrator can completely define the induction coil and / or cavity along at least a portion of the axial length extension of the induction coil and / or cavity. The flux concentrator can have any suitable cross-section, as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the actual length extension of the induction coil and / or cavity. For example, the flux concentrator can have a square, oval, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or similar cross-sectional shape. Preferably, the flux concentrator has a circular cross-section. For example, the flux concentrator can have a circular or cylindrical shape.

[0038] It is also possible that the fixed flux concentrator extends only partially around the circumference of the induction coil and / or cavity in the circumferential direction.

[0039] In any of the foregoing configurations, the fixed flux concentrator may be arranged coaxially with the centerline of the induction coil and / or the centerline of the cavity.

[0040] Advantageously, the fixed flux concentrator may comprise, and in particular may be made of, a flux concentrator foil. The use of a flux concentrator foil has proven advantageous due to its flexible nature, which provides good shock-absorbing properties and can therefore withstand higher, excessive force shocks or vibrations without breaking. Furthermore, the flux concentrator foil, due to its small size (small thickness), allows for a more compact design of the induction heating module. The use of a flux concentrator foil also allows for compensation of manufacturing tolerances and fine-tuning of the inductance. In this regard, the use of a flux concentrator foil can advantageously help enhance the impedance stability of the induction coil over temperature. As used herein, the term "foil" refers to a thin sheet material whose thickness is much smaller than its dimension in any direction perpendicular to the thickness, wherein the term "thickness" refers to the dimension of the foil perpendicular to the main surface of the foil. Preferably, the flux concentrator foil may have a thickness in the range of 0.02 mm to 0.25 mm, in particular 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm, preferably 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm, or 0.04 mm to 0.08 mm, or 0.03 mm to 0.07 mm. Such values ​​allow for a particularly compact design of the aerosol generating device. However, these values ​​are still large enough to adequately conduct and concentrate the alternating magnetic field in the cavity.

[0041] Similar to the transferable flux concentrator, the fixed flux concentrator, in particular the flux concentrator foil, preferably comprises, in particular is made of, one or more materials having a relative magnetic permeability of at least 100, in particular at least 1000, preferably at least 10000, even more preferably at least 50000, most preferably at least 80000. These values ​​preferably refer to the maximum values ​​of the relative magnetic permeability at a frequency of up to 50 kHz and a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. In particular, the fixed flux concentrator or the flux concentrator foil may comprise or may be made of one of the materials further disclosed above in relation to the transferable flux concentrator. Preferably, the fixed flux concentrator or the flux concentrator foil comprises or is made of at least one of permalloy or nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy. As an example, the fixed flux concentrator or the flux concentrator foil may comprise or may be made of a trademark Alloy available from MAGNETEC GmbH, Germany, or can be made therefrom. The alloy is an iron-based nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy containing from about 83% to about 89% by weight iron. As used herein, the term "nanocrystalline" refers to a material having a particle size of from about 5 nanometers to 50 nanometers. As another example, a fixed flux concentrator or flux concentrator foil may contain a material that may be trademarked. or Alloy available from VACUUMSCHMELZE GmbH & Co. KG, Germany, or can be made therefrom. The alloy is amorphous (metallic glass), and The alloy is a nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy. For example, the transferable flux concentrator may comprise or be made of Vitroperm 220, Vitroperm 250, Vitroperm 270, Vitroperm 400, Vitroperm 500, or Vitroperm 800. As yet another example, the fixed flux concentrator or flux concentrator foil may comprise or be made of Vitroperm 220, Vitroperm 250, Vitroperm 270, Vitroperm 400, Vitroperm 500, or Vitroperm 800. Obtained from the United States Inc. or brazing foil available from Hitachi Metals Europe GmbH, Germany, or can be made from such brazing foil. The brazing foil is an amorphous nickel-based brazing foil.

[0042] Typically, the flux concentrator foil may be a single-layer flux concentrator foil or a multi-layer flux concentrator foil. For example, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may include a substrate layer film and at least one layer of ferromagnetic material disposed on the substrate layer. According to another example, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may include a multi-layer stack, the multi-layer stack including one or more pairs of layers, each pair of layers including a spacer layer and a layer of ferromagnetic material disposed on the spacer layer. According to yet another example, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may include a substrate layer and a multi-layer stack disposed on the substrate layer, wherein the multi-layer stack includes one or more pairs of layers, each pair of layers including a spacer layer and a layer of ferromagnetic material disposed on the spacer layer. In addition, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may include at least one of a protective layer (e.g., made of a polymer or ceramic) or an adhesive layer, which preferably forms at least one of the two outermost layers (edge ​​layers) of the multi-layer flux concentrator foil.

[0043] The flux concentrator foil may be wrapped around the circumference of the induction coil and / or the cavity, in particular in one or more turns.

[0044] Furthermore, the induction heating module may include a radial gap between the induction coil / cavity and a fixed flux concentrator at least partially surrounding the induction coil / cavity. The gap may be an air gap or a gap filled with a filler material, such as a polyimide, such as poly(4,4′-oxydiphenylene-pyromellitamide), also known as or any other suitable dielectric material. The gap may have a radial extension in the range of 40 to 400 μm, in particular 100 to 240 μm, for example 220 μm. Advantageously, the gap may help reduce losses in the induction coil and increase losses in the susceptor to be heated, that is, increase the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating device.

[0045] The induction heating module may comprise a conductive shielding, in particular a conductive shielding wrapper, arranged around the fixed flux concentrator. Advantageously, the conductive shielding serves to shield the environment of the induction heating module from the magnetic field within the module.

[0046] The induction heating module may further comprise a coil support for supporting the induction coil. The coil support may be disposed within a device housing of an aerosol-generating device with which the induction heating module is to be used. In particular, the coil support may comprise a sleeve portion, the interior space of the sleeve portion preferably defining a cavity for receiving the first product and the second product.

[0047] The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating device for use with either a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (a first type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) or a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (a second type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article), wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article. The aerosol-generating device comprises an inductive heating module according to the present invention and as described herein. Preferably, at least one of the first and second articles is the first and second articles, respectively, according to the present invention and as described herein.

[0048] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" is used to describe an electrically operated device that is capable of selectively interacting with one of a first article and a second article to generate an aerosol by inductively heating the first substrate or the second substrate via interaction of the respective susceptors with an alternating magnetic field provided by the device. Preferably, the aerosol-generating device is a puffing device for generating an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user through the user's mouth. In particular, the aerosol-generating device is a handheld aerosol-generating device.

[0049] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device housing in which the induction heating module is located or arranged.

[0050] The aerosol-generating device, in particular the device housing, may be configured such that the interior space of the cavity of the induction heating module is freely accessible from outside the device to enable insertion of the first aerosol-generating article or the second aerosol-generating article therein.

[0051] The aerosol-generating device may further include an alternating current (AC) generator. The AC generator is operably coupled to the induction coil. In particular, the induction coil may be an integral part of the AC generator. The AC generator is configured to generate a high-frequency oscillating current through the induction coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. The AC current may be supplied continuously to the induction coil after system activation, or may be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff-by-puff basis.

[0052] The aerosol generating device may comprise a power source, in particular a DC power source, configured to provide a (DC) supply voltage and a (DC) supply current for powering the operation of the device, in particular for powering an AC generator. Preferably, the power source is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. The power source may have sufficient capacity to allow continuous aerosol generation for a period of approximately six minutes or a multiple of six minutes. Likewise, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activation of the induction heating module.

[0053] In the case where the power supply is a DC power supply, the aerosol generating device, in particular an AC generator, may include a DC / AC converter connected to the DC power supply to provide an AC current to be passed through the induction coil. The DC / AC converter may include a power amplifier, in particular a switching power amplifier, more particularly a single-ended switching power amplifier, preferably one of a class C power amplifier, a class D power amplifier, or a class E power amplifier.

[0054] The aerosol generating device is preferably configured to generate a high frequency varying magnetic field. As mentioned herein, the high frequency varying magnetic field may have a frequency in the range of 500 kHz to 30 MHz, in particular 5 MHz to 15 MHz, preferably 5 MHz to 10 MHz.

[0055] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a controller configured to control the operation of the device. In particular, the controller may be configured to control heating of the aerosol-forming substrate to a predetermined operating temperature, in particular to a different predetermined operating temperature associated with each of the first article and the second article.

[0056] The aerosol-generating device may further comprise a puff detector, such as a microphone or a pressure sensor, for detecting a user's puff, i.e., the start of the user experience when the user begins to puff on the device. The puff detector may be operatively connected to the controller. Thus, detection of a puff by means of the puff detector may trigger the delivery of power to the induction coil for aerosol generation. That is, the controller may be configured to initiate operation of the heating device, in particular, to generate an alternating magnetic field, in response to the puff detector detecting a puff by the user.

[0057] Further features and advantages of the aerosol generating device have been described in relation to the induction heating module of the present invention and are equally applicable.

[0058] The present disclosure also relates to a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (a first type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) for use with an inductive heating module according to the present invention or within an aerosol-generating device according to the present invention. The first article comprises a first type of susceptor and is configured such that the transferable flux concentrator of the inductive heating module is in, and preferably remains in, a first configuration when the first article is inserted into a cavity.

[0059] To this end, the first article is preferably configured such that the transferable flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other during insertion of the first article or during at least a portion, in particular a major portion, of the insertion movement or insertion path of the first article within the cavity.

[0060] For example, the first article may include at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator therein, such that the transferable flux concentrator is in a first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration, when the first article is inserted into the cavity. The at least one distal recess may be configured such that the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator received therein does not mechanically interact with the first article during at least a portion, in particular a major portion, of the insertion movement or insertion path of the first article within the cavity. The transferable flux concentrator may mechanically interact with the first article when the first article is in a predetermined (final) position in the cavity, or when the first article has reached or is about to reach the predetermined (final) position in the cavity. In this position of the first article, the transferable flux concentrator may be in contact with, in particular may abut against, a surface of the first article, in particular a surface of the at least one recess, such as the bottom surface of the at least one recess.

[0061] The first article may be configured to provide an aerosol from a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Thus, the first article may include a liquid reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate therein. The liquid reservoir may be a refillable liquid reservoir. The liquid reservoir may contain a liquid aerosol-forming substrate (being the first aerosol-forming substrate).

[0062] In particular, when the first aerosol-forming substrate is a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the first type of susceptor may include or may be a mesh susceptor, a filamentous susceptor or a wick-shaped susceptor. In any of these configurations, the susceptor is advantageously capable of performing two functions: wicking (transporting) and heating the aerosol-forming liquid. Therefore, in any of the aforementioned configurations, the susceptor may be considered a liquid transport susceptor. In any of these configurations, the first type of susceptor is preferably in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir in which the aerosol-forming liquid can be stored / stored. Alternatively or in addition to the liquid transport susceptor, the first type of article may include a liquid transport element, such as a core, which provides for fluid communication from the liquid reservoir to the first type of susceptor for the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0063] It is also possible that the first type of susceptor may include or may be a susceptor sleeve, a susceptor cup, a cylindrical susceptor, a tubular susceptor, a susceptor blade, a susceptor strip, or a susceptor plate.

[0064] When the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, the first type of susceptor preferably matches the dimensions of a first region in the cavity of the induction heating module, in which the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is concentrated. For example, when the first product is received in the cavity, the first type of susceptor may have a length extension, as measured along the longitudinal axis of the cavity, ranging from 2 mm to 7 mm, particularly from 3 mm to 5 mm. Similarly, when the first product is received in the cavity, the first type of susceptor may have a lateral extension, as measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity, ranging from 1 mm to 5 mm, particularly from 2 mm to 3 mm.

[0065] Further features and advantages of the first article (the first type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) have been described in relation to the induction heating module of the present invention and apply equally.

[0066] The present disclosure also relates to a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (a second type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) for use with an inductive heating module according to the present invention or within an aerosol-generating device according to the present invention. The second article comprises a second type of susceptor and is preferably configured to mechanically interact with the transferable flux concentrator, or at least a portion thereof, when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transferring the transferable flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0067] To this end, the second article may include a contact surface at the distal end of the article, the contact surface being configured to contact the transferable flux concentrator, or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator, when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transferable flux concentrator to be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article is further inserted into the cavity. For example, as mentioned, it is possible that the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between the first configuration and the second configuration by being displaceable between the first and second positions (e.g., relative to the induction coil). In this case, it is possible that the second article includes a contact surface at the distal end of the article, the contact surface being configured to contact the transferable flux concentrator, or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator, when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transferable flux concentrator to be transferred from the first position to the second position (e.g., relative to the induction coil) when the second article is further inserted into the cavity.

[0068] The second article may be configured to provide an aerosol from a solid or gel-like aerosol-forming substrate (being the second aerosol-forming substrate). Thus, the second article may comprise a second aerosol-forming substrate which is a solid aerosol-forming substrate (being the second aerosol-forming substrate).

[0069] The second type of susceptor may be an elongated susceptor. The second type of susceptor may be a flat susceptor or a sheet-like susceptor, in particular an elongated flat susceptor or an elongated sheet-like susceptor. The flat or sheet-like susceptor may comprise or may be a susceptor blade, a susceptor strip or a susceptor plate, in particular an elongated susceptor blade, an elongated susceptor strip or an elongated susceptor plate.

[0070] As already described above with respect to the first type of susceptor, the second type of susceptor preferably matches the dimensions of the second region in the cavity of the induction heating module, in which the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is concentrated when the transferable flux concentrator is in the second configuration. For example, when the second product is received in the cavity, the first type of susceptor may have a length extension, as measured along the longitudinal axis of the cavity, ranging from 4 mm to 12 mm, particularly from 5 mm to 8 mm. Similarly, when the second product is received in the cavity, the second type of susceptor may have a lateral extension, as measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity, ranging from 2 mm to 6 mm, particularly from 3 mm to 4 mm.

[0071] Preferably, the susceptor means of the second type is arranged in thermal contact or thermal proximity to the second aerosol-forming substrate.In particular, the susceptor means of the second type may be embedded in the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0072] Further features and advantages of the second article (the second type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) have been described in relation to the induction heating module of the present invention and apply equally.

[0073] As used herein, the terms "first aerosol-generating article / first type of aerosol-generating article" and "second aerosol-generating article / second type of aerosol-generating article" refer to articles that include or are capable of storing / containing at least one aerosol-forming substrate that releases volatile compounds that can form an aerosol when heated. The first and / or second type of aerosol-generating article may be consumables, in particular consumables that are disposed of after a single use.

[0074] As used herein, the term "susceptor" refers to an element capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat when subjected to a varying magnetic field. This can be the result of at least one of hysteresis losses or eddy currents induced in the susceptor, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the susceptor material. In ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic susceptors, hysteresis losses occur due to the transformation of magnetic domains within the susceptor material under the influence of a varying magnetic field. If the susceptor is electrically conductive, eddy currents can be induced. In the case of electrically conductive ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic susceptors, heat can be generated due to both eddy currents and hysteresis losses. Thus, the first and second types of susceptors can be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the respective aerosol-forming substrate. Preferred susceptors of the first or second types may comprise ferromagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron or ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. Suitable susceptors may be or comprise aluminum. Preferred susceptors may be formed from 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, 420, or 430 stainless steel.

[0075] Typically, the first and second aerosol-forming substrates can be formed by or include aerosol-forming materials that can release volatile compounds when heated to generate aerosols. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates are preferably intended to be heated rather than burned to release an aerosol that forms volatile compounds. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates can be solid aerosol-forming substrates, liquid aerosol-forming substrates, gel-like aerosol-forming substrates, or any combination thereof. As described above, the first aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, i.e., an aerosol-forming liquid. The aerosol-forming liquid can comprise both solid aerosol-forming materials or components and liquid aerosol-forming materials or components. The aerosol-forming liquid can be a water-based aerosol-forming liquid or an oil-based aerosol-forming liquid. Equally, the second aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a solid aerosol-forming substrate or a gel-like aerosol-forming substrate or any combination thereof. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates can comprise tobacco-containing materials that are included in the volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the substrate when heated. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second aerosol-forming substrates may comprise non-tobacco materials. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates may also comprise an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates, particularly aerosol-forming liquids, may also comprise other additives and ingredients, such as nicotine or spices. In particular, the aerosol-forming liquid may comprise water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavorings.

[0076] According to another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating device according to the present invention and as described herein; and at least one first inductively heatable aerosol generating article (first type of article), in particular at least one first inductively heatable aerosol generating article (first type of article) according to the present invention and as described herein; and at least one second inductively heatable aerosol generating article (second type of article), in particular at least one second inductively heatable aerosol generating article (second type of article) according to the present invention and as described herein.

[0077] In particular, the first article may comprise a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, and the second article may comprise a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article.

[0078] As described above with respect to the first article, the transferable flux concentrator and the first article can be configured such that the transferable flux concentrator is in a first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration, when the first article is inserted into the cavity. Similarly, the transferable flux concentrator and the first article can be configured such that the transferable flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other when the first article is inserted into the cavity. To this end, the first article may include at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator therein, such that the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration, when the first article is inserted into the cavity. For further details of the mutual configuration of the transferable flux concentrator and the first article, reference is made to the above description of the induction heating module and the first article according to the present invention.

[0079] As still further mentioned above, the first article preferably comprises a liquid reservoir comprising the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0080] The second article is preferably configured, in contrast to the first article, to mechanically interact with the transferable flux concentrator, or at least a portion thereof, when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transferring the transferable flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration. To this end, the second article may include a contact surface at a distal end of the article, the contact surface being configured to contact the transferable flux concentrator, or at least a portion thereof, when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transferable flux concentrator to be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article is further inserted into the cavity. For example, as mentioned, it may be possible that the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between the first configuration and the second configuration by being displaceable between the first and second positions (e.g., relative to the induction coil). In this case, it is possible that the second article includes a contact surface at its distal end, the contact surface being configured to contact the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transferable flux concentrator to be displaced from the first position to the second position (e.g., relative to the induction coil) when the second article is further inserted into the cavity. Further details of the mutual arrangement of the transferable flux concentrator and the second article have been described above with respect to the induction heating module and the first article. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the corresponding description.

[0081] As mentioned, the second article preferably comprises a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0082] Further features and advantages of the aerosol generating system have been described in relation to the induction heating module, aerosol generating device, first product and second product of the present invention and apply equally.

[0083] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

[0084] Example Ex1: An induction heating module for use with either a first induction-heatable aerosol-generating article or a second induction-heatable aerosol-generating article, the first article comprising a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, and the second article comprising a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article, the induction heating module comprising:

[0085] - a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of the first article or the second article;

[0086] an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field to inductively heat a corresponding susceptor of the first article or the second article when the first article or the second article is received in the chamber;

[0087] a magnetic flux concentrator device comprising a flux concentrator, the flux concentrator being shiftable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration such that the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is selectively concentrated in a first region or a second region within the cavity, wherein the first region is associated with a size of the first type of susceptor and / or a position in the cavity when the first article is received in the cavity, and wherein the second region is associated with a size of the second type of susceptor and / or a position in the cavity when the second article is received in the cavity.

[0088] Example Ex2: The induction heating module of Example Ex1, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable from the first configuration to the second configuration by inserting the second article.

[0089] Example Ex3: The induction heating module of any of the preceding examples, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is constructed and arranged to mechanically interact with the second article when the second article is inserted into the cavity to transfer from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0090] Example Ex4: The induction heating module of any of the preceding examples, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable from the second configuration to or toward the first configuration by removing the second article from the cavity.

[0091] Example Ex5: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is constructed and arranged to mechanically interact with the second article when the second article is removed from the chamber so as to transfer from the second configuration to or toward the first configuration.

[0092] Example Ex6: An induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the magnetic flux concentrator device includes a return mechanism configured and arranged to transfer the transferable flux concentrator from the second configuration toward the first configuration or to the first configuration when the second product is removed from the cavity.

[0093] Example Ex7: The induction heating module of Example Ex6, wherein the return mechanism comprises at least one spring biasing the transferable flux concentrator toward or into the first configuration.

[0094] Example Ex8: The induction heating module of Example Ex7, wherein the spring is attached to the distal end wall of the cavity.

[0095] Example Ex9: An induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between a first position corresponding to the first configuration and a second position corresponding to the second configuration by movement, in particular linear movement, along the length axis of the cavity.

[0096] Example Ex10: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first position is more proximal and the second position is more distal relative to a proximal insertion opening of the cavity.

[0097] Example Ex11: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the transferable flux concentrator comprises a solid flux concentrator body.

[0098] Example Ex12: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the transferable flux concentrator comprises a ferromagnetic material (eg, a ferrite material, ferrite powder held in a binder), or a ferromagnetic steel, in particular a ferromagnetic stainless steel.

[0099] Example Ex 13: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is at least partially coated by a bonding layer.

[0100] Example Ex 14: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the bonding layer comprises or consists of a poly(p-xylylene) polymer.

[0101] Example Ex 15: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the magnetic flux concentrator device comprises a fixed flux concentrator.

[0102] Example Ex16: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fixed flux concentrator is arranged around the induction coil.

[0103] Example Ex17: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fixed flux concentrator comprises a flux concentrator foil, in particular a multi-layer flux concentrator foil.

[0104] Example Ex18: The induction heating module of Example Ex17, wherein the flux concentrator foil comprises at least one of permalloy or a nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy.

[0105] Example Ex 19: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the induction coil has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0106] Example Ex20: The induction heating module according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the induction coil is a cylindrical-helical coil.

[0107] Example Ex21: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the induction coil is arranged around at least a portion of the receiving cavity.

[0108] Example Ex22: The induction heating module according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the cavity has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0109] Example Ex23: A first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article for use with an inductive heating module according to any of the preceding examples or with an inductive heating module according to any of Examples Ex37 to Ex43, the first article comprising a first type of susceptor and being configured such that when the first article is inserted into the cavity, the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration.

[0110] Example Ex24: The first article of example Ex23, wherein the first article is configured such that when the first article is inserted into the cavity, the transferable flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other.

[0111] Example Ex25: A first product according to any one of Examples Ex23 or Ex24, wherein the first product includes at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transferable flux concentrator or at least a part of the transferable flux concentrator therein, so that when the first product is inserted into the cavity, the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration.

[0112] Example Ex26: The first product according to any one of examples Ex23 to Ex25, wherein the first product comprises a liquid reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate therein.

[0113] Example Ex27: The first product according to example Ex26, wherein the liquid reservoir comprises a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0114] Example Ex28: An aerosol generating device for use with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol generating article, in particular a first and a second aerosol generating article according to the present invention and as defined herein, the first article comprising a first type of receptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, the second article comprising a second type of receptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article, the aerosol generating device comprising an inductive heating module according to any of the preceding examples or an inductive heating module according to any of Examples Ex37 to Ex43.

[0115] Example Ex29: An aerosol generating system, comprising: an aerosol generating device according to Example Ex28; at least one first inductively heatable aerosol generating article, in particular at least one first inductively heatable aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex23 to Ex27; and at least one second inductively heatable aerosol generating article, the first article comprising a first type of receptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, and the second article comprising a second type of receptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article.

[0116] Example Ex30: An aerosol generating system according to example Ex29, wherein the transferable flux concentrator and the first article are configured such that when the first article is inserted into the cavity, the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration.

[0117] Example Ex31: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Example Ex29 or Example Ex30, wherein the transferable flux concentrator and the first article are configured such that when the first article is inserted into the cavity, the transferable flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other.

[0118] Example Ex32: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex29 to Ex31, wherein the first article includes at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator therein, so that when the first article is inserted into the cavity, the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration.

[0119] Example Ex33: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex29 to Ex32, wherein the first article comprises a liquid reservoir containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0120] Example Ex34: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex29 to Ex33, wherein the second article is configured to mechanically interact with the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion thereof when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transferring the transferable flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0121] Example Ex35: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex29 to Ex34, wherein the second article includes a contact surface at the distal end of the article, and the contact surface is configured to contact the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transferable flux concentrator to be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article is further inserted into the cavity.

[0122] Example Ex36: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex29 to Ex35, wherein the second article comprises a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0123] Example Ex37: An induction heating module according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex22, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between the first configuration and the second configuration to modify the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between being concentrated in the first region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration and being concentrated in the second region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the second configuration, wherein the modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is caused by transferring the transferable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration without changing the position of the induction coil relative to the cavity (for example, the modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is entirely caused by transferring the transferable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration).

[0124] Example Ex38: The induction heating module of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex22 or Example Ex37, wherein the induction coil is a fixed induction coil.

[0125] Example Ex39: The induction coil of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex22 or Example Ex37, wherein the induction coil is fixedly arranged relative to the cavity.

[0126] Example Ex40: The induction coil of any of Examples Ex1 to Ex22 or any of Examples Ex37 to Ex39, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is movable relative to the induction coil.

[0127] Example Ex41: An induction coil according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex22 or any one of Examples Ex37 to Ex40, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between the first configuration and the second configuration by being shiftable between a first position (e.g., a first position corresponding to the first configuration) and a second position (e.g., a second position corresponding to the second configuration).

[0128] Example Ex42: The induction coil of Example Ex41, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between the first configuration and the second configuration by being displaceable between the first position and the second position relative to the induction coil.

[0129] Example Ex43: An induction coil according to Example Ex41 or Example Ex42, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between the first configuration and the second configuration by being shiftable between the first position and the second position relative to the induction coil, thereby modifying the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between being concentrated in the first region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the first position and being concentrated in the second region within the cavity when the transferable flux concentrator is in the second position.

[0130] Example Ex44: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex35 or Ex36, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable between the first configuration and the second configuration by being shiftable between the first position and the second position (e.g., relative to the induction coil), wherein the second article includes a contact surface at the distal end of the article, the contact surface being configured to contact the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transferable flux concentrator to be shifted (e.g., relative to the induction coil) from the first position to the second position when the second article is further inserted into the cavity.

[0131] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0132] Figure 1-2 An exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating system according to the present invention is shown;

[0133] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 1-2 a first aerosol-generating article of the system; and

[0134] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 1-2 A second aerosol-generating article of the system.

[0135] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating system 1 according to the present invention is schematically shown (not to scale). The system 1 comprises at least three components: a first inductively heatable aerosol generating article 100 (article of the first type), a second inductively heatable aerosol generating article 200 (article of the second type), and an aerosol generating device 10 for use with either the first article 100 or the second article 200. The aerosol generating device 10 is capable of generating an inhalable aerosol in combination with each of the first and second articles 100, 200 by inductively heating respective susceptors 120, 220 in the first and second articles 100, 200 in thermal contact with respective aerosol-forming substrates 130, 230 contained in the first and second articles, respectively. Details of the first and second articles 100, 200 are provided in the accompanying drawings. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Shown in.

[0136] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4 The second product 200 is a substantially strip-shaped consumable product comprising five elements arranged in sequence in coaxial alignment: a distal front rod element 250, a matrix element 210, a first tube element 240, a second tube element 245, and a filter element 260. The distal front rod element 250 is arranged at the distal end 202 of the product 200 to cover and protect the distal front end of the matrix element 210, while the filter element 260 is arranged at the proximal end 203 of the product 200. Both the distal front rod element 250 and the filter element 260 can be made of the same filter material. The filter element 260 is preferably used as a mouthpiece, in particular as part of a mouthpiece together with the second tube element 245. The filter element 260 can have a length of 10 mm to 14 mm (e.g., 12 mm), and the distal front rod element 250 can have a length of 3 mm to 6 mm (e.g., 5 mm). Each of the first and second tube elements 240, 245 is a hollow cellulose acetate tube having a central air passage 241, 246, wherein the cross-section of the central air passage 246 of the second tube element 245 is larger than the cross-section of the central air passage 241 of the first tube element 240. The first and second tube elements 240, 245 may have a length of 6 mm to 10 mm (e.g., 8 mm). The substrate element 210 includes a second, solid aerosol-forming substrate 230 capable of releasing volatile compounds when heated, and a second type of susceptor 220 for heating the substrate 230. In the present invention, the second type of susceptor 220 is in an elongated susceptor strip made of metal (e.g., stainless steel) that is centrally embedded within the second aerosol-forming substrate 230. Therefore, when the susceptor strip is heated, the substrate 230 releases the volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. As shown from Figure 4 As seen, the susceptor strip is aligned substantially parallel to the length axis 201 of the second goods 200, extends along the entire length of matrix element 210. The susceptor strip has approximately 12 millimeters (along the length axis 201) length extension, approximately 4 millimeters of width dimension and approximately 50 microns of thickness dimension. Each element in aforementioned element 250,210,240,245,260 can be columnar basically. Especially, all elements 250,210,240,245,260 can have identical external cross-sectional shape and size. In addition, these elements can be limited by one or more outer packagings, so that these elements are kept together and maintain the cross-sectional shape of the expectation of strip-shaped goods 200. In the present embodiment, far-side front rod element 250, matrix element 210 and first tube element 240 are limited by first wrapper 271, and second tube element 245 and filter element 260 are limited by second wrapper 272. Second wrapper 272 also limits (after being wrapped by first wrapper 271) at least a portion of first tube element 240 so that distal front rod element 250, matrix element 210 and first tube element 240 that will be limited by first wrapper 271 are connected to second tube element 245 and filter element 260.Preferably, first wrapper and second wrapper 271,272 are made of paper.In addition, second wrapper 272 can comprise the perforation (not shown) around its circumference.Wrapper 271,272 can also comprise the adhesive that the overlapping free end of wrapper is adhered to each other.In use, when the user suctioned at filter element 260 place, air was sucked in the first goods 200 and continued to flow through susceptor 220 at distal end 202 place of the first goods.There, in use, the volatile compound that is discharged from heated matrix 230 is entrained in the air flow. Subsequently, as it flows further downstream through the first and second tube elements 240 , 245 towards the mouthpiece 260 , the airflow comprising the volatilized material cools to form an aerosol which escapes the second article 200 at its proximal end 203 .

[0137] In contrast to the second article 200 comprising a solid substrate 230, the first article 100 comprises a first aerosol-forming substrate 130 which is a liquid. Despite the difference in substrate, the first article 100 has substantially the same outer shape and outer dimensions as the second article 200, as can be seen from the Figure 3 and Figure 4112 is a cylindrical element made of porous ceramics. The liquid transport element 113 is arranged to cross the cylindrical inner space 112 of the hollow barrel 111 to provide a capillary fluid connection from the liquid reservoir 110 to the small susceptor 120 of the first type for liquid matrix 130. In the present embodiment, the susceptor 120 of the first type is a susceptor mesh made of metal, which is circumferentially wrapped around a part of the liquid transport element 113 in the cylindrical inner space 112 of the hollow barrel 111. Thus, when the first type of susceptor 120 is heated, the aerosol-forming liquid 130 provided by the liquid delivery element 113 can volatilize and escape into the interior void 112 of the hollow barrel 111. The susceptor web 120 has a (length) dimension of approximately 5 mm, as measured along the longitudinal axis 101 of the first article 100, and a lateral dimension of approximately 2 mm, as measured parallel to the longitudinal extension of the liquid delivery element 113. Proximal to the barrel element 111, the first article 100 includes a tube element 145 having a central air passage 146 and a filter element 160. Preferably, the tube element 145 and the filter element 160 serve as a mouthpiece defining the proximal portion of the first article 100. Each of the aforementioned elements 111, 145, 160 has a substantially cylindrical shape with substantially the same external cross-sectional shape and dimensions. Similar to the second article 200, the elements 111, 145, 160 of the first article 100 are defined by an outer wrapper 170 to hold the elements together. In use, when a user draws on the filter element 160, air is drawn into the interior void 112 of the hollow barrel 111 at the distal end 102 of the first article 100 and continues to flow through the susceptor web 120. There, in use, material vaporized from the aerosol-forming liquid is entrained in the airflow through the interior void 112. Subsequently, as it flows further downstream through the tube element 145 toward the mouthpiece 160, the airflow including the vaporized material cools to form an aerosol that escapes the first article 100 at its proximal end 103.

[0138] The heating of the respective susceptors 120, 220 in the first and second articles 100, 200 is achieved by interaction with the alternating magnetic field provided by the aerosol generating device 10. To this end, the first article 100 (see Figure 1 ) or the second product 200 (see Figure 2) can be received in a cylindrical cavity 20 defined within the proximal portion 12 of the device 10. There, an alternating magnetic field for heating the respective susceptors 120, 220 is generated by an induction heating device including an induction coil 30. In this embodiment, the induction coil 30 is a helical coil made of three turns of flat coil wire circumferentially surrounding the cylindrical cavity 20. The induction coil 30 can be fixedly arranged relative to the cavity 20. The induction coil 30 can be a fixed induction coil.

[0139] Within the distal portion 13, the aerosol generating device 10 further comprises a DC power supply 55 and a controller 50 (shown only schematically) for powering and controlling the heating process. In addition to the induction coil 30, the induction heating device is preferably at least partially an integral part of the controller 50. The aerosol generating device 10 according to this embodiment further comprises a puff detector 57 for detecting a puff by a user. The puff detector 57 is operatively connected to the controller 50 such that the occurrence of a puff detected by means of the puff detector 57 triggers the delivery of power to the induction coil 30 for generating an alternating magnetic field. In this regard, the aerosol generating device 10 can be represented as a puff-on-demand device. Depending on the type of product currently received in the cavity 20, the puff detector 57 and / or the triggering of the power delivery to the induction coil 30 can be active or inactive. In this embodiment, when the first product 100 comprising a liquid matrix 130 is received in the cavity 20, the suction detector 57 and / or the triggering of the power delivery to the induction coil 30 can be active, and when the second product 200 comprising a solid matrix 230 is received in the cavity 20, the suction detector and / or the triggering of the power delivery to the induction coil can be inactive.

[0140] As from Figure 1 and Figure 2 It can further be seen that the induction coil 30 is surrounded by a tubular flux concentrator 42 that extends along the entire axial length of the induction coil 30 and is fixedly arranged relative thereto. That is, the flux concentrator 42 is fixed. In the present embodiment, the flux concentrator 42 is a flux concentrator foil comprising a material having a high magnetic permeability. Conveniently, the flux concentrator foil comprises a nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy, such as is available as adhesive-backed tape from VACUUMSCHMELZE GmbH & Co. KG, Germany, in various thicknesses and widths. Alloy. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown in FIG, a fixed flux concentrator 42 completely defines the cylindrical induction coil 30 and cavity 20 along its entire axial length, having a radial extension (thickness in the radial direction) of approximately 50 microns. This can be achieved by wrapping one or more turns of flux concentrator foil around the periphery of the cylindrical induction coil 30 in one or more layers, depending on the actual thickness and width of the foil material. Essentially, the flux concentrator 42 acts as a magnetic shield to reduce undesirable heating of or interference with external objects. Additionally, the fixed flux concentrator 42 causes the magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil 30 to be concentrated within the interior space of the cavity 20, thereby increasing the density of the magnetic field within the cavity 20. Thus, combined with the cylindrical shape of the spiral induction coil 30, the alternating magnetic field in the cavity 20 is substantially uniform, with the magnetic field lines extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cavity 20.

[0141] The axial lengths of the induction coil 30 and the fixed flux concentrator 42 are selected so that when the second article 200 is received in the cavity 20, they correspond to the axial length and axial position of the second type of susceptor 220. That is, the induction coil 30 and the fixed flux concentrator 42 are designed so that the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 30 is substantially concentrated in the (second) region 47 within the cavity 20 (at Figure 2 ), which is schematically shown by a dashed rectangle [not to scale], and which correlates to the size and cavity location of the elongated, strip-like shape of the second type of susceptor 220.

[0142] As from Figure 1 and Figure 3 and Figure 2 and Figure 4 As can be seen from the comparison of the first and second article 100, the size and cavity location of the first type of more compact susceptor 120 differs significantly from the size and cavity location of the elongated, strip-like shape of the second type of susceptor 220 in the second article 200. Although the field distribution across the rather elongated second region 47 used to heat the second type of susceptor 220 when the first article 100 is received in the cavity 20 can in principle also be used to heat the first type of more compact susceptor 120, the field density may still be too low to enable the device 10 to instantaneously heat the liquid matrix 130 on a puff-by-puff basis (puff-on-demand). According to the present invention, it has been found that the heating performance of a universal aerosol generating device 10 can be made adaptable to the specific requirements of various product types by implementing a transferable flux concentrator 41, which is capable of modifying the characteristics of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil 30 within the cavity 20 depending on the type of product 100, 200 received in the cavity 20, in particular, such that when the first or second product 100, 200 is received in the cavity 20, the magnetic field is concentrated to the respective areas 46, 47 within the cavity 20 occupied by the respective susceptors 120, 220.

[0143] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the transferable flux concentrator 41 according to this embodiment includes a cylindrical solid flux concentrator body comprising ferrite powder having a high relative magnetic permeability held in a binder. Because this material is quite fragile, the solid flux concentrator body is coated with a bonding layer. Advantageously, the bonding layer has good shock absorbing properties and also serves as a support layer, which allows the transferable flux concentrator 41 to remain bonded in the event of fragmentation. Preferably, the bonding layer is a polymer bonding layer comprising a vapor-deposited poly(p-xylylene) polymer, such as parylene.

[0144] The transferable flux concentrator 41 is attached to one end of a coil spring 45, the other end of which is attached to the distal end wall 21 of the cavity 20. The spring 45 biases the transferable flux concentrator 41 in a direction toward the insertion opening 23 of the cavity 20, but allows the transferable flux concentrator 41 to be moved in the opposite direction toward the distal end of the cavity along a linear trajectory parallel to the long axis of the cavity 20 by compression of the spring 45.

[0145] As from Figure 1 As can be further seen, the dimensions of the transferable flux concentrator 41 are selected so that it can be received in the distal recess 117 of the first article 100, which is formed by the open-ended distal end section of the interior void 112 of the hollow cylinder 111. Thus, during insertion of the first article 100 into the cavity 20, the transferable flux concentrator 41 and the first article 100 do not mechanically interact with each other. When the first article 100 is about to reach, and ultimately has reached, its predetermined final position in the cavity 20, the transferable flux concentrator 41 can mechanically interact with the first article 100 by abutting against a stop element 114 disposed in the interior void 112 of the hollow cylinder 111, which defines the bottom surface of the distal recess 117. The stop element 114 is perforated to allow flow to the interior void 112 of the hollow cylinder 111. When the first article 100 has reached its predetermined final position in the cavity 20, the bottom surface of the distal recess 117 defines a first configuration of the transferable flux concentrator 41, here the first position. Figure 1 ), the transferable flux concentrator 41 modifies the alternating magnetic field as provided by the induction coil 30 and shaped by the fixed flux concentrator 42 to concentrate the alternating magnetic field into the above-mentioned first region 46 associated with the size of the first type of susceptor 120 and the position in the cavity 20 (see Figure 1 ). Thus, the field strength is locally enhanced in the first region 46, which enables the device 10 to heat the second type of susceptor 220 more efficiently and thus to heat the liquid medium 130 instantaneously on a puff-by-puff basis (puff on demand).

[0146] However, the field modifying effect of the transferable flux concentrator 41 is only required when the first article 100 is to be heated. If the second article 200 is to be heated, the transferable flux concentrator 41 should not affect the field distribution as given by the size and position of the induction coil 30 and the fixed flux concentrator 42, because the field distribution already matches the size and cavity position of the second type of susceptor 200. To this end, the transferable flux concentrator 41 can be transferred from the first position to a second configuration near the distal end of the cavity 20, here the second position. In the second position, the transferable flux concentrator 41 is completely outside the induction coil 30 and is axially offset far enough relative to the induction coil and, therefore, has substantially no effect on the magnetic field of the induction coil 30. That is, in the second position, the alternating magnetic field within the interior space of the induction coil 30 is spread over an elongated first region 47 (see FIG. 4 ) as determined by the size and position of the induction coil 30 and the fixed flux concentrator 42. Figure 2 )superior.

[0147] In this embodiment, the transferable flux concentrator 41 is automatically transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration by inserting the second article 200 into the cavity, without requiring any additional action by the user. To this end, the transferable flux concentrator 41 mechanically interacts with the second article 200 when the second article is inserted into the cavity 20 in the distal direction by abutting against the distal end surface of the distal front rod element 250, which provides a contact surface 251, causing the flux concentrator 41 to transfer from the first configuration to the second configuration. Vice versa, when the second article 200 is removed from the cavity 20 in the proximal direction, the transferable flux concentrator 41 automatically returns from the second configuration to the first configuration, again without requiring any additional action by the user.

[0148] exist Figure 1-2In the example shown, when the transferable flux concentrator 41 mechanically interacts with the second article 200 by abutting against the distal end surface of the distal front rod element 250 of the second article 200 as the second article 200 is being inserted distally into the cavity 20 (the distal end surface providing the contact surface 251 that causes the transferable flux concentrator 41 to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration), the transferable flux concentrator 41 moves from a first position to a second position relative to the (e.g., fixed) induction coil 30 to thereby modify the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 30 between being concentrated in a first region 46 within the cavity 20 when the transferable flux concentrator 41 is in the first position and being concentrated in a second region 47 within the cavity 20 when the transferable flux concentrator 41 is in the second position. The modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 30 is caused by the transferable flux concentrator 41 transitioning from the first configuration to the second configuration without changing the position of the induction coil 30 relative to the cavity 20. It may be the case that said modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 30 is caused entirely by the transference of the transferable flux concentrator 41 from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0149] The transferable flux concentrator 41 and the fixed flux concentrator 40 together form a magnetic flux concentrator arrangement 40 .

[0150] The magnetic flux concentrator device 40 having the transferable flux concentrator 41 and the fixed flux concentrator 40 and the induction coil 30 may be part of the induction heating module 15. In addition to the aforementioned components, the induction heating module 15 may further include a coil support 17 disposed within the device housing 11 for supporting the induction coil 30. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the coil support 17 according to the present embodiment includes a sleeve portion 18 , an interior space of which defines a cavity 20 for receiving the first and second products 100 , 200 .

[0151] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numerals representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc. should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. In addition, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically listed in this article. Therefore, in this context, the number A is understood to be 5% of A±A. In this context, the number A can be regarded as including the numerical value within the general standard error for the measurement of the attribute modified by the number A. In some cases used in the appended claims, the number A can deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of A deviation does not substantially affect the basic characteristics and novel features of the invention claimed. In addition, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically listed in this article.

Claims

1. An induction heating module for use with either a first induction-heatable aerosol-generating article or a second induction-heatable aerosol-generating article, the first article comprising a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, and the second article comprising a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article, the induction heating module comprising: - a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of the first article or the second article; an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field to inductively heat a corresponding susceptor of the first article or the second article when the first article or the second article is received in the chamber; a magnetic flux concentrator device comprising a flux concentrator, the flux concentrator being shiftable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration such that the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is selectively concentrated in a first region or a second region within the cavity, wherein the first region is associated with a size of the first type of susceptor and / or a position in the cavity when the first article is received in the cavity, and wherein the second region is associated with a size of the second type of susceptor and / or a position in the cavity when the second article is received in the cavity.

2. The induction heating module of claim 1 , wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable from the first configuration to the second configuration by inserting the second article.

3. The induction heating module of any preceding claim, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is transferable from the second configuration to or towards the first configuration by removing the second article from the cavity.

4. The induction heating module according to claim 1 , wherein the magnetic flux concentrator device comprises a return mechanism, in particular at least one spring biasing the transferable flux concentrator towards or into the first configuration, the return mechanism being configured and arranged to transfer the transferable flux concentrator from the second configuration towards or into the first configuration when the second product is removed from the cavity.

5. The induction heating module of any preceding claim, wherein the transferable flux concentrator comprises a solid flux concentrator body.

6. Induction heating module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the transferable flux concentrator comprises a ferromagnetic material, in particular a ferritic material or a ferromagnetic steel, preferably a ferromagnetic stainless steel.

7. The induction heating module of any of the preceding claims, wherein the transferable flux concentrator is at least partially coated by a bonding layer.

8. An induction heating module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic flux concentrator means comprises a fixed flux concentrator.

9. The induction heating module of any preceding claim, wherein the fixed flux concentrator is arranged around the induction coil.

10. The induction heating module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the induction coil is a stationary induction coil.

11. A first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article for use with an inductive heating module according to any of the preceding claims, the first article comprising a first type of susceptor and being configured such that the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration, when the first article is inserted into the cavity, wherein the first article comprises at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transferable flux concentrator or at least part of the transferable flux concentrator therein, such that the transferable flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration, when the first article is inserted into the cavity.

12. An aerosol generating device for use with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol generating article, the first article comprising a first type of receptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, the second article comprising a second type of receptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article, the aerosol generating device comprising an inductive heating module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. An aerosol generating system, comprising: The aerosol generating device according to claim 12; at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, in particular at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article according to claim 11; and at least one second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, the first article comprising a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, in particular a liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a liquid reservoir, and the second article comprising a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article.

14. An aerosol generating system according to claim 13, wherein the second article is configured to mechanically interact with the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion thereof when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transferring the transferable flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration.

15. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the second article includes a contact surface at the distal end of the article, and the contact surface is configured to contact the transferable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transferable flux concentrator to be transferred from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article is further inserted into the cavity.

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