Aerosol generating device including a chamber for receiving an aerosol generating article

Abstract

An aerosol generating device (100) for use with an aerosol generating article includes a chamber (121) for removably accommodating at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. Along the central axis (122) of the chamber (121), the inner surface (130) of the chamber (121) includes a first axial portion (131) and a second axial portion (132), the first axial portion (131) being closer to the proximal end (124) of the chamber (121) than the second axial portion (132). The second axial portion (132) is recessed and includes a plurality of indentations (142), and the plurality of indentations (142) extend outwardly from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion (142) in a direction away from the central axis (122). The first axial portion (131) includes a plurality of first protrusions (141), and the plurality of first protrusions (141) are configured to come into contact with at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article when the article is received in the chamber (121), and the plurality of first protrusions (141) extend from a reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion (131) through a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion (132) toward the central axis (122).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device used with an aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol by heating an aerosol-forming substrate contained within the article. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising such a device and such an article. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating devices for generating inhalable aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming substrate are generally known from the prior art. Such devices may include a heating element for heating the aerosol-forming substrate within the device, in particular a resistance heating element or an induction heating element. The substrate itself may be an integral part of an aerosol-generating article in which the aerosol-generating article can be at least partially accommodated within the chamber of the device. The chamber may be dimensioned to provide a relative interference fit to hold the aerosol-generating article within the chamber during use of the device. However, an interference fit may result in unwanted heat loss due to direct heat conduction from the aerosol-generating article to the inner surface of the chamber. Additionally, when the article is tightly accommodated within the chamber, condensation formation within the chamber may cause unwanted wetting of the article, particularly of the substrate contained therein. Such condensation formation may occur when the vaporized compound of the aerosol-generating substrate is cooled upon contact with these parts of the chamber walls at a temperature below the dew point. Furthermore, forced fitting can restrict airflow through the chamber, which can ultimately affect the device's airflow management and consequently lead to high resistance to draw (RTD). This applies particularly to devices where an airflow passage extends along the inner surface of the chamber, for example, between the inner surface of the chamber and the outer surface of the aerosol generator housed within the chamber. Forced fitting can also cause damage or even breakage to the aerosol generator when inserted into or extracted from the chamber. This can result in debris forming within the chamber. Debris within the chamber can adversely affect the subsequent inhalation experience using other aerosol generators. The debris within the chamber preferably needs to be removed or cleaned, which creates further inconvenience for the user.

[0003] Meanwhile, sufficient interference fit is required to prevent the item from sliding out of the device or even falling off during use. This is more applicable because the aerosol-forming material tends to shrink during use, which can reduce the retention of the item within the chamber.

[0004] Therefore, it would be desirable to have an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system that possess the advantages of the solution of the prior art while mitigating its limitations. In particular, a corresponding system is required that provides an aerosol generating device and improved retention of aerosol generating articles within the chamber of said device, as well as improved airflow management through said chamber.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol generating article is provided. The aerosol generating device comprises a chamber. The chamber may be a chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. Along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber may comprise a first axial portion. The inner surface of the chamber may comprise a second axial portion. The first axial portion may be closer to the proximal end of the chamber than the second axial portion. The second axial portion may be recessed. The second axial portion may be recessed by including a plurality of indentations. The plurality of indentations may extend outwardly from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion. The plurality of indentations may extend radially outwardly from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction far from the central axis. The first axial portion may comprise a plurality of first protrusions. The plurality of first protrusions may be configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol generating article received within the chamber. A plurality of first protrusions may extend from the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion. A plurality of first protrusions may extend from the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion through the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction toward the central axis.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol generating article is provided. The aerosol generating device comprises a chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. Along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber comprises a first axial portion and a second axial portion, the first axial portion being closer to the proximal end of the chamber than the second axial portion. The second axial portion is recessed and includes a plurality of indentations, wherein the plurality of indentations extend outwardly, particularly radially outwardly, from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction farther from the central axis. The first axial portion comprises a plurality of first protrusions, the plurality of first protrusions being configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol generating article received in the chamber, and the plurality of first protrusions extend from the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion in a direction toward the central axis through the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion.

[0007] Additionally, the inner surface of the chamber may include a third axial portion along the central axis of the chamber. The third axial portion is closer to the distal end of the chamber than the second axial portion. The third axial portion includes a plurality of second protrusions, and the plurality of second protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article contained within the chamber. The plurality of second protrusions extend from a reference plane area of ​​the third axial portion through a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction toward the central axis. As described in more detail below, the third axial portion may be provided, in particular, when the article comprises two support elements and a substrate element arranged between the two support elements.

[0008] Due to a plurality of first protrusions and optional plurality of second protrusions extending toward the central axis through the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion, the aerosol generating article does not come into physical contact with the second axial portion when accommodated in the chamber. Therefore, any direct heat conduction from the aerosol generating article to the second axial portion is prevented. Advantageously, this results in a reduction of unwanted heat loss and thus an improvement in heating efficiency. Furthermore, since there is no direct physical contact between the second axial portion and these parts of the article that directly face the second axial portion when the article is accommodated in the chamber, wetting of the article due to condensation is avoided at least in these parts.

[0009] Furthermore, it should be understood that the aerosol generating article contacts only the first protrusion of the first axial portion and—if present—the second protrusion of the third axial portion. Accordingly, the contact surface between the article and the chamber is reduced compared to a chamber without protrusions. Consequently, conductive heat exchange between the aerosol generating article and the surrounding chamber, as well as wetting of the article, is further reduced. Preferably, a plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions comprise contact surfaces for contacting the aerosol generating article. The shape of the contact surfaces is adapted to the shape of each portion of the aerosol generating article that each contact surface contacts upon insertion of the article into the chamber. The contact surfaces may be curved or rounded to prevent damage to the aerosol generating article.

[0010] In addition, the reduced contact surface area between the article and the chamber makes the insertion and removal of the article easier, as the reduced contact surface area reduces the frictional force that must be overcome when moving the article into or out of the chamber.

[0011] Although there is no physical contact with the second axial portion, the aerosol generating article is still firmly held within the chamber by the first protrusion of the first axial portion. If a third axial portion is present, the aerosol generating article is held much more firmly. In particular, due to the local nature of the contact between the aerosol generating article and the first and second protrusions, the holding pressure between the article and the protrusions is locally enhanced so that the protrusions can form a local depression that extends into the aerosol generating article. Advantageously, the local depression allows for compensation for possible shrinkage of the article during use. Thus, the risk of the article being pushed out or falling off the aerosol generating device is advantageously reduced.

[0012] A plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions are spaced apart from each other so that an airflow passage is formed along the inner surface between each adjacent first protrusion and adjacent second protrusion.

[0013] In relation to these airflow passages along the inner surface, the recessed second axial portion, particularly the multiple indentations, cause the airflow along the second axial portion to become turbulent. The effect of the recessed second axial portion is the same effect used to improve the aerodynamic behavior of a golf ball. The multiple indentations in the second axial portion create a thin turbulent boundary layer of air adhering to the inner surface of the chamber. Compared to conventional aerosol generation systems, the turbulent airflow helps provide improved aerosol characteristics, such as a better flavor profile and a better nicotine delivery profile over time. Additionally, the turbulent airflow advantageously ensures sufficient heat exchange between the air flowing around the article.

[0014] Likewise, a plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions create a wide multidimensional matrix of airflow channels that also promote turbulent airflow.

[0015] Preferably, there is an airflow passage extending along the inner surface of the chamber from the proximal end of the chamber toward the distal end of the chamber. With respect to this airflow passage, a first axial portion is upstream of a second axial portion. Likewise, an optional third axial portion is downstream of the second axial portion with respect to this airflow passage.

[0016] Generally, the first axial portion and the optional third axial portion may be considered as a surface including peaks and valleys, where the peak corresponds to the area of ​​the first and second protrusions closest to or having the shortest distance to the central axis, and the valley corresponds to the area between neighboring protrusions having the longest distance to or farthest from the central axis, including a reference plane area. The first protrusion and the optional second protrusion are each part of the first axial portion and the optional third axial portion, and thus are part of the inner surface of the chamber.

[0017] Likewise, the second axial portion can be considered as a surface comprising a plane corresponding to the reference plane region and a plurality of dimples within that plane. The indentation is part of the second axial portion and is therefore also part of the inner surface of the chamber.

[0018] Generally, the number, shape, and distance of multiple indentations can be selected to ensure turbulent airflow along the second axial portion.

[0019] Preferably, at least one of the plurality of indentations, in particular, each of the plurality of indentations has a conical shape or a truncated conical shape or a pyramidal shape or a prism shape or a truncated pyramidal shape or a dome shape or a rectangular shape or a partially spherical shape or a cylindrical shape or a trihedral shape or a polyhedral shape. Any one of these shapes is suitable for ensuring turbulent airflow along the second axial portion.

[0020] In particular, the indentation may substantially be a puntiform indentation. That is, the indentation may substantially be a local single indentation, and the depth dimension of the indentation is equal in size to the width dimension of the indentation perpendicular to the depth dimension of the indentation. In some embodiments, the indentations may be interconnected. In some embodiments, the indentations may not be interconnected.

[0021] At least one opening area among the plurality of indentations, in particular, each opening area among the plurality of indentations may have a circular shape, an egg shape, an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, a quadric shape, a rhombus shape, a parallelogram shape, a triangular shape, a hexagonal shape, or a polygonal shape. Here, the opening area refers to the base of each of the aforementioned shapes. For example, in the case of a pyramidal shape or a prickly shape, the opening area corresponds to the base of the pyramid.

[0022] The formation of turbulent airflow along the inner surface can be significantly influenced by the depth dimension of the indentation. Preferably, at least one of the multiple indentations, particularly each of the multiple indentations, has a depth dimension in a direction perpendicular to the opening area of ​​each indentation in the range of 0.25 mm to 2 mm, particularly in the range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm. These values ​​are particularly advantageous for improved airflow management through the device. Preferably, all indentations of the second axial portion have the same depth dimension.

[0023] The formation of turbulent airflow can also be influenced by the density of the indentations. Preferably, the density of the plurality of indentations is 0.1 to 1.0 indentations / mm 2 , preferably 0.2 to 0.7 indentation / mm 2It may be a range. These values ​​have also proven advantageous in relation to improved airflow management through the device. As used herein, density per square millimeter refers to the envelope surface tangent for each point of the reference plane zone of the second axial part. That is, density per square millimeter does not refer to the actual area content of the "concave" second axial part, but refers to the area content of the protrusion of the second axial part onto its reference plane zone in a direction perpendicular to the reference plane zone of the second axial part.

[0024] Likewise, the percentage of the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion with respect to the envelope surface tangent for each point of the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion may be in the range of 2% to 50%, particularly 10% to 40%.

[0025] Preferably, a plurality of press-fit sections are arranged in a regular pattern. The regular pattern is particularly suitable for promoting turbulent airflow. In addition, the regular pattern is easy to manufacture.

[0026] The reference plane region of the second axial portion may be a coherent region. That is, each section of the reference plane region is connected directly or indirectly to any other section of the reference plane region through one or more other sections of the reference plane region. In other words, the reference plane region does not have isolated sections.

[0027] Preferably, the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion has a hexagonal grid pattern. The hexagonal grid pattern allows for a very compact arrangement of the indentations, and consequently, a high density of multiple indentations. Alternatively, the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion may have a cross grid pattern.

[0028] The number, shape, and distance of a plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions can be selected to contact a sufficient portion of the aerosol-generating article, particularly to firmly hold the article within the chamber, and at the same time allow sufficient airflow along the inner surface of the chamber, particularly between the outer surface of the article and the inner surface of the chamber.

[0029] Preferably, at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, in particular, each has a conical shape, a truncated conical shape, a pyramidal shape, a truncated pyramidal shape, a dome shape, a rectangular shape, a partially spherical shape, a cylindrical shape, a trihedral shape, or a polyhedral shape. Likewise, at least one of the optional plurality of second protrusions, preferably each, may have a conical shape, a truncated conical shape, a pyramidal shape, a truncated pyramidal shape, a dome shape, a rectangular shape, a partially spherical shape, a cylindrical shape, a trihedral shape, or a polyhedral shape. Any one of these shapes is found to be beneficial for creating a wide multidimensional matrix of airflow channels to promote turbulent airflow.

[0030] The first protrusion and the optional second protrusion may be substantially point protrusions, that is, protrusions substantially localized in a single step, as in the case of any one of the aforementioned shapes. Advantageously, this results in point contact between the protrusion and the aerosol-generating article. Point contact is particularly beneficial with respect to reduced wetting of the article and reduced heat transfer from the aerosol-generating article to the surrounding chamber. Additionally, point contact makes the insertion and removal of the article easier, as the reduced contact surface area reduces the frictional force to be overcome when moving the article into or out of the chamber, for example, compared to linear contact with a rib or even full contact with a smooth wall surface. Furthermore, the point shape of the first protrusion and the optional second protrusion helps to promote turbulent airflow in the regions of the first and optional third axial parts, particularly due to the wide multidimensional matrix of the airflow channel formed between the first protrusion and the optional second protrusion.

[0031] Alternatively, the shapes of the plurality of first protrusions and optionally the plurality of second protrusions may be selected such that there is linear contact between each protrusion and the aerosol generating article. In particular, at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, preferably each one, may extend substantially along the central axis of the chamber. Likewise, at least one of the optionally the plurality of second protrusions, preferably each one, may extend substantially along the central axis of the chamber.

[0032] The direction of extension along the central axis, in particular in the case of a substantially cylindrical chamber, may be parallel to the central axis. Accordingly, at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, preferably each one, may extend parallel to the central axis. Likewise, at least one of the optional plurality of second protrusions, preferably each one, may extend parallel to the central axis.

[0033] Additionally, substantially, the direction of extension of each protrusion along the central axis may be inclined with respect to the central axis (e.g., by 2 to 5 degrees), but still lie in each common plane with the central axis. In particular, the latter situation applies to substantially tapered, for example, conical or truncated conical chambers. Thus, generally, at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, preferably each one, may extend along each plane containing the central axis. Likewise, at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, preferably each one, may extend along each plane containing the central axis.

[0034] Advantageously, the extension direction of each protrusion along the central axis substantially facilitates the insertion and extraction of aerosol-generating articles into and from the chamber. This is maintained particularly when the insertion direction corresponds to the direction of the central axis.

[0035] For example, at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, in particular each one may include a rib, be formed as a rib, or be a rib. Likewise, at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, in particular each may include a rib, be formed as a rib, or be a rib. Preferably, one or more ribs extend substantially along the direction of the central axis as described above, i.e., parallel to the center or in the general direction of the central axis. One or more ribs may have a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape. Alternatively, one or more ribs may have a substantially rectangular, substantially trapezoidal, substantially ovate, or substantially semicircular cross-sectional shape.

[0036] At least one of the plurality of first protrusions, particularly each and / or at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, particularly each, may be chamfered or may include at least one chamfer. Preferably, each protrusion may be chamfered on a side facing the insertion opening of the chamber or may include at least one chamfer facing the insertion opening of the chamber. Advantageously, this facilitates the insertion of an article into the chamber. Likewise, each protrusion may be chamfered on a side facing away from the insertion opening of the chamber or may include at least one chamfer facing away from the insertion opening of the chamber. Advantageously, this facilitates the removal of an article from the chamber.

[0037] As seen in the direction of the central axis, a plurality of first protrusions and a plurality of second protrusions may be arranged such that the position of each first protrusion coincides with the position of each second protrusion. In particular, as seen in the direction of the central axis, a plurality of first protrusions and a plurality of second protrusions may be arranged such that each first protrusion rests on each second protrusion.

[0038] Generally, a plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions each comprise at least two first and second protrusions. In particular, the plurality of first protrusions and the optional plurality of second protrusions may each comprise two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, or more first and second protrusions. If the inner surface of the chamber comprises only first and second axial portions but not a third axial portion, it may be sufficient to comprise three protrusions that can be uniformly distributed along the inner circumference of the chamber in the first axial portion. Likewise, if the inner surface of the chamber also comprises a third axial portion, each of the first and third axial portions may comprise two protrusions positioned opposite each other, wherein the first protrusion is offset by 90 degrees with respect to the second protrusion of the third axial portion. Any one of the aforementioned numbers provides a reasonable balance between sufficiently large retention of the article and sufficient reduction of the aforementioned side effects. The number is applied particularly to a protrusion shape that provides linear contact between the protrusion and the aerosol-generating article.

[0039] If the first and optional third protrusions have one of the aforementioned dot-like protrusion shapes, the number of protrusions may be larger. Accordingly, at least one of the density of the plurality of first protrusions and the density of the optional plurality of second protrusions is 0.25 to 1.5 protrusions / mm 2 , particularly 0.5 to 0.75 protrusions / mm 2It may be within a range. Here, the density per square millimeter again refers to the envelope surface tangent for each point of the reference plane region of the first axial portion and the optional third axial portion, respectively. That is, each density per square millimeter does not refer to the actual area content of the "non-uniform" first and third axial portions, but refers to each projection of the first and third axial portions perpendicular to each reference plane region. The density of the plurality of first projections may be greater than, equal to, or less than the density of the optional plurality of second projections. Likewise, at least one of the density of the plurality of first projections and the density of the plurality of second projections may be greater than, equal to, or less than the density of the plurality of indentations of the second axial portion.

[0040] The height dimensions of the first protrusion and the optional second protrusion define the width of the airflow passage formed between the first protrusion and the optional second protrusion, in particular between the outer surface of the article housed within the chamber and the respective reference plane zones of the first axial portion and the optional third axial portion. At least one of the plurality of first protrusions, preferably each one, may have a height dimension in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, particularly in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm. Likewise, at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, preferably each one, has a height dimension in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, particularly in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm. These height values ​​have proven to be particularly advantageous for promoting improved airflow management. Here, the height dimensions of the first and optional second protrusions are defined as the distance between the peak of each protrusion and the adjacent portion of each reference plane zone, as seen in the direction toward the central axis, preferably perpendicular to the central axis. Preferably, all first protrusions have the same height dimension. Likewise, all second protrusions—if present—can have the same height dimension.

[0041] A plurality of first protrusions or optionally a plurality of second protrusions or a plurality of first protrusions and optionally a plurality of second protrusions may all be arranged in a regular pattern. The plurality of first protrusions and optionally a plurality of second protrusions may each be uniformly distributed along the inner circumference of the chamber. In particular, the plurality of first protrusions and optionally a plurality of second protrusions may each be uniformly spaced from one another by a respective valley (gap) arranged between two adjacent protrusions. Advantageously, the regular pattern makes the retention of the aerosol-generating article uniform and thus particularly secure.

[0042] Similar to the reference plane region of the second axial portion, the reference plane region of the first axial portion and the reference plane region of the optional third axial portion are each coherent regions. The reference plane region of the first axial portion and the reference plane region of the optional third axial portion do not have isolated sections.

[0043] Preferably, at least one of the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion has a cross-shaped grid pattern. The cross-shaped pattern of each reference plane area provides a linear airflow passage between the first and second protrusions.

[0044] Alternatively, at least one of the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion may have a hexagonal grid pattern.

[0045] Advantageously, the number, shape, and distance of each of the plurality of first protrusions and the optional plurality of second protrusions can be selected so that the resistance to suction (RTD) is in a desired range when an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the chamber of the device. The resistance to suction may be in the range of 70 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge) to 120 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge). Preferably, the resistance to suction (RTD) may be 40 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge) to 70 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge), particularly 45 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge) to 65 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge), for example, 55 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge).

[0046] The chamber may have a substantially cylindrical shape. As used herein, the term "substantially cylindrical shape" refers to the shape of the chamber when masking protrusions and indentations, or without considering any protrusions and indentations. That is, a substantially cylindrical rod shape refers to the shape of the chamber given by the reference plane regions of the first, second, and optional third axial portions. In the case of a substantially cylindrical chamber, a plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions extend radially inward toward the central axis through the second axial portion. In particular, any distance between the inner surface and the central axis is measured radially with respect to the central axis, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the central axis. Preferably, the envelope surface intersecting the peak of each of the plurality of first protrusions also preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape. Likewise, the envelope surface intersecting the peak of each of the plurality of indentations may also have a substantially cylindrical shape. If present, the envelope surface intersecting the peak of each of the optional plurality of second protrusions preferably also has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0047] Alternatively, the chamber may have a substantially tapered, particularly substantially conical or substantially truncated conical shape. As used herein, the term “substantially tapered, particularly substantially conical or substantially truncated conical shape” refers again to the shape of the chamber when masking protrusions and indentations or when not considering any protrusions and indentations, i.e., the shape of the chamber as given by the respective reference plane zones of the first, second, and optional third axial portions. For any of these shapes, any distance between the inner surface and the central axis is preferably measured perpendicular to the surface of the substantially tapered, particularly substantially conical or substantially truncated conical shape, i.e., perpendicular to the respective reference plane zones of the first, second, and optional third axial portions. Preferably, the envelope surface intersecting the peak of each of the plurality of first protrusions also has a substantially tapered, particularly substantially conical or substantially truncated conical shape. Likewise, the envelope surface intersecting the peak of each of the multiple indentations may also have a substantially tapered shape, particularly a substantially conical or substantially truncated conical shape. The envelope surface intersecting the peak of each of the optional multiple second protrusions may also have a substantially tapered shape, particularly a substantially conical or substantially truncated conical shape, if present.

[0048] Preferably, the chamber has a substantially circular cross-section as seen in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. In particular, the second axial portion may have a circular cross-section as seen in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. Likewise, at least one of the first axial portion and the optional third axial portion may have a substantially circular cross-section as seen in a plane perpendicular to the central axis, without considering the first protrusion or the second protrusion, respectively.

[0049] Alternatively, the chamber may also have a substantially elliptical cross section, a substantially egg-shaped cross section, a substantially square cross section, a substantially rectangular cross section, a substantially triangular cross section, or a substantially polygonal cross section. As used herein, the aforementioned cross-sectional shape refers to the cross-sectional shape of the chamber, preferably without considering any protrusions.

[0050] Likewise, the envelope curve around the central axis intersecting the peak of each of the plurality of first protrusions or optionally the plurality of second protrusions may each have a substantially circular, substantially elliptical, substantially egg-shaped, substantially square, substantially rectangular, substantially triangular, or substantially polygonal shape. Preferably, the shape of the envelope curve around the central axis intersecting the peak of each of the plurality of first protrusions or the plurality of second protrusions corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating article to be accommodated in the chamber.

[0051] The chamber may include an insertion opening into which an aerosol generating article can be inserted. As used herein, the direction in which the aerosol generating article is inserted is indicated as the insertion direction. Preferably, the insertion direction corresponds to an extension of the central axis of the chamber. When inserted into the chamber, at least a portion of the aerosol generating article may still extend outward through the insertion opening. The portion extending outward is preferably provided to be taken into the user's mouth for interaction with the user. Thus, during use of the device, the insertion opening may be close to the user's mouth. Accordingly, the insertion opening may be positioned at the proximal end of the aerosol generating device, particularly at the proximal end of the chamber.

[0052] Alternatively, the chamber may be accessible laterally with respect to the central axis. That is, the aerosol generating article may be inserted laterally into the chamber with respect to the central axis. In addition to lateral accessibility, the chamber may further include an opening such that—when inserted into the chamber—at least a portion of the aerosol generating article may extend outwardly, particularly in a direction corresponding to the central axis of the chamber. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a lateral insertion opening that allows lateral access to the chamber with respect to the central axis. The device may further include a lid to cover the lateral insertion opening of the chamber. The lid may be removably attached to the body of the aerosol generating device. In particular, the lid may be hinged, that is, the lid may be attached to the body of the aerosol generating device by a hinge. Likewise, the aerosol generating device may include two housing portions, each forming a portion of the chamber. The two housing parts are joined to each other by a hinge, allowing the two housing parts to be transferred between an open position and a closed position, and the interior of the chamber is accessible in the open position.

[0053] Generally, the length of the first axial portion, the length of the second axial portion, and—if present—the length of the optional third axial portion may vary depending on the design of the aerosol-forming article to be accommodated and retained within the chamber. As described in more detail below, the article may comprise different elements. In particular, if the aerosol-generating article has a substantially rod shape, the article may comprise different elements arranged sequentially along the longitudinal axis of the article. Each portion of the inner surface of the chamber, namely the first axial portion, the second axial portion, and the optional third axial portion—if present—may be assigned to a specific element of the aerosol-forming article.

[0054] The second axial portion may have a length of at least 20% of the total length of the inner surface or chamber along the central axis. Preferably, the second portion has a length of 20% to 40%, particularly 25% to 40%, and particularly 30% to 35% of the total length of the inner surface or chamber. Advantageously, such lengths provide a sufficient reduction of the aforementioned adverse effects and also ensure that the airflow along the second axial portion is turbulent. The first axial portion and an optional third axial portion—if present—may have the same length along the central axis. Alternatively, the first axial portion and the third axial portion—if present—may have different lengths along the central axis.

[0055] The aerosol generating device may include one or more end stops arranged within a chamber, particularly at the distal end of the chamber. One or more end stops are preferably configured to limit the insertion depth of an aerosol generating article into the chamber. In particular, one or more end stops may be configured to prevent the aerosol generating article from contacting the inner surface of the chamber at the distal end of the chamber, which is opposite to the insertion opening of the chamber at the proximal end of the chamber. Accordingly, one or more end stops advantageously provide free space within the distal portion of the chamber, allowing free airflow between the distal end of the chamber and the distal end of the aerosol generating article when the article is received within the chamber. One or more end stops may include a contact surface that the aerosol generating article, particularly the distal end of the aerosol generating article, may contact when the article is received within the chamber.

[0056] Preferably, the aerosol generating device may include a plurality of separate end stops arranged within the chamber, particularly at the distal end of the chamber, for example, three end stops.

[0057] Multiple end stops may be arranged symmetrically around a central axis. In particular, multiple end stops may be arranged equally spaced apart around a central axis. As previously mentioned, this enables free airflow around the end stops and the article contained within the chamber.

[0058] One or more end stops preferably have a dimension along the central axis in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, particularly in the range of 1 mm to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, for example, 1.4 mm.

[0059] One or more end stops preferably have shapes and dimensions such that they extend toward the central axis, for example, past a plurality of first protrusions and a plurality of second protrusions. One or more end stops preferably have a radial extension perpendicular to the central axis in the range of 0.7 mm to 6 mm, particularly in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably in the range of 2 mm to 4 mm.

[0060] Preferably, one or more end stops may have the shape of a ring segment, particularly when the chamber has a substantially cylindrical shape. The ring segment may have a height dimension in the direction of the center axis and a radial dimension perpendicular to the center axis. As previously mentioned, the height dimension of the ring segment may be in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, particularly in the range of 1 mm to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm. The radial dimension of the ring segment may be in the range of 0.7 mm to 6 mm, particularly in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 3 mm, for example, 1.3 mm.

[0061] As an example, the chamber may be formed as an elongated cavity including a lower end at the distal end of the chamber. In this configuration, one or more end stops may be arranged within the chamber to protrude from the lower end at the distal end in a direction toward, for example, the proximal end of the chamber, particularly in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the article.

[0062] The reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion may be arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface. The reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​an optional third axial portion may be arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface. The reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion may be arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface. The reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion, the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion, and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion may be arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface.

[0063] The chamber may be a multi-part component. In particular, the chamber may comprise a first part and a second part, wherein the second part is preferably inserted into the first part. The second part may be formed as a sleeve. The second part may be attached to the first part by a form fit or positive-fit method. Alternatively or additionally, the second part may be attached to the first part by a friction fit or a snap fit. Preferably, the second part comprises an optional third axial part—if present—wherein the first part comprises a second axial part and a first axial part. This configuration facilitates manufacturing, particularly by injection molding.

[0064] The chamber can be formed as a chamber module, in particular, as a tubular sleeve, which can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generator. Advantageously, this allows for a modular assembly of the aerosol generator.

[0065] Alternatively, at least a portion of the chamber may be formed integrally with the main body. By providing at least a portion of the chamber as part of the main body, the amount of used portion for the aerosol generating device may be reduced.

[0066] The aerosol generating device may further include a heating device for heating an aerosol-forming substrate within an aerosol-generating article housed within the chamber of the device. The heating device may be an induction heating device. The induction heating device may include an induction source comprising an inductor configured to generate an alternating, particularly high-frequency magnetic field within the chamber. The alternating, particularly high-frequency magnetic field may be in the range of 500 kHz (kilohertz) to 30 MHz (megahertz), particularly 5 MHz (megahertz) to 15 MHz (megahertz), preferably 5 MHz (megahertz) to 10 MHz (megahertz). When the article is inserted into the chamber, the alternating magnetic field is used to inductively heat a susceptor that is in thermal contact with or thermally close to the aerosol-forming substrate to be heated. The inductor may be arranged to surround, for example, at least a portion of the chamber or at least a portion of the inner surface of the chamber. The inductor may be an inductor coil, for example, a spiral coil, arranged within the sidewall of the chamber. Preferably, the inductor may be arranged to surround, for example, at least a second axial portion of the inner surface. More preferably, the inductor may be arranged to surround, for example, only the second portion of the inner surface. Alternatively, the inductor may be arranged to additionally surround, for example, at least partially, the first axial portion or the third axial portion, or both the first axial portion and the third axial portion.

[0067] Alternatively, the heating device may be a resistance heating device comprising a resistance heating element. The heating resistance element is configured to heat up when current passes through it due to the inherent ohmic resistance or resistance load of the resistance heating element. The resistance heating element may include at least one of a resistance heating wire, a resistance heating track, a resistance heating grid, or a resistance heating mesh. When the device is in use, the resistance heating element is in thermal contact with or thermally close to an aerosol-forming substrate to be heated.

[0068] The aerosol generating device may further include a controller configured to control the operation of the device. In particular, the controller may be configured to control a heating device, preferably in a closed-loop configuration, to control the heating of the aerosol-forming substrate to a predetermined operating temperature. The operating temperature used to heat the aerosol-forming substrate may be at least 180°C, particularly at least 300°C, preferably at least 350°C, more preferably at least 370°C, and most preferably at least 400°C.

[0069] The aerosol generator may include a power supply, specifically a DC power supply configured to provide a DC supply voltage and a DC supply current to an induction heating array. Preferably, the power supply is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power supply may require recharging; that is, the power supply may be rechargeable. The power supply may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy for one or more user experiences. For example, the power supply may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosols for a period of about 6 minutes, or for a period of several times 6 minutes. In another example, the power supply may have a capacity sufficient to allow for the individual activation of a predetermined number of puffs or heating devices.

[0070] The aerosol generating device may preferably include a main body comprising at least one of a controller and a power supply. Additionally, the aerosol generating device may include a chamber module housed within a cavity of the main body or attached to the main body of the device. The chamber module includes a chamber of the device as described in the present invention and herein.

[0071] A chamber module may be an independent subject of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention further relates to a chamber module for use in an aerosol generating device, wherein the chamber module comprises a chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of an aerosol generating article. Along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber comprises a first axial portion and a second axial portion. The first axial portion is closer to the proximal end of the chamber than the second axial portion. The second axial portion is recessed and includes a plurality of indentations. The plurality of indentations extend outwardly from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion. The plurality of indentations may extend radially outwardly from the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction far from the central axis. The first axial portion comprises a plurality of first protrusions, and the plurality of first protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol generating article received within the chamber. The plurality of first protrusions extend from the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion. Multiple first protrusions may extend from the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion through the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion toward the central axis.

[0072] The chamber module may be configured to be accommodated within the cavity of the main body of the aerosol generating device or to be attached to the main body of the device.

[0073] Additional features of the chamber module, particularly additional features of the chamber, have already been described in relation to the aerosol generating device and are equally applicable.

[0074] The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the present invention and as described herein. The system further comprises an aerosol generating article comprising at least one aerosol forming substrate to be heated by the device, wherein at least a portion of the article is removablely accommodated or removablely accommodated within a chamber of the device.

[0075] The device and article are configured such that, when the article is inserted into the chamber, a plurality of first protrusions and—if present—a plurality of second protrusions contact at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article to retain the aerosol-generating article within the chamber. In contrast, a second portion of the inner surface of the chamber does not contact the aerosol-generating article.

[0076] Preferably, the shape of the envelope curve around the central axis intersecting the peak of each of the plurality of first protrusions or optionally the plurality of second protrusions corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating article to be accommodated in the chamber.

[0077] As described above in relation to the aerosol generating device according to the present invention, a plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions are spaced apart from each other so that an airflow passage is formed between adjacent first protrusions and, if present, between adjacent second protrusions. Advantageously, the shape and distance of the plurality of first protrusions and the optional plurality of second protrusions can be selected such that the resistance to suction (RTD) is within a desired range when an aerosol generating article is inserted into the chamber of the device. The resistance to suction may be in the range of 70 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge) to 120 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge). Preferably, the resistance to suction (RTD) may be 40 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge) to 70 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge), particularly 45 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge) to 65 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge), for example, 55 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge).

[0078] For example, an aerosol generating article may comprise the following elements: a substrate element, a support element, a cooling element, and a filter element. All of the aforementioned elements may be arranged sequentially along the longitudinal axis of the article in the order described above, wherein the support element is arranged at the distal end of the article and the filter element is arranged at the proximal end of the article. In particular, the substrate element is located downstream of the support element in relation to the airflow passing through the article during use of the system. Each of the aforementioned elements may be substantially cylindrical. In particular, all elements may have the same external cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the elements may be surrounded by an external wrapper to hold the elements together, for example, and maintain the desired cross-sectional shape of the rod-shaped article. Preferably, the wrapper is made of paper.

[0079] The substrate element preferably comprises at least one aerosol-forming substrate to be heated. If the aerosol generation system is based on induction heating, the substrate element may further comprise a susceptor that is in thermal contact with or thermally close to the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0080] The support element may include a hollow cellulose acetate tube having a free central air passage.

[0081] The aerosol cooling element may be an element having a large surface area and low suction resistance, for example, 15 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge) to 20 mmWG (millimeter water level gauge). When in use, the aerosol formed by volatile compounds released from the base element is drawn through the aerosol cooling element before being delivered to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

[0082] The filter element, preferably, acts as part of the mouthpiece, or together with the aerosol cooling element. As used herein, the term "mouthpiece" refers to the part of the article through which the aerosol exits the aerosol-generating article.

[0083] When an aerosol generating device is intended to be used with an aerosol generating article according to a specific embodiment previously described (only one support element), the chamber of the aerosol generating device preferably comprises only a first axial portion and a second axial portion, but not a third axial portion. In this configuration, the device and article are preferably configured such that the support element contacts the first axial portion, and the substrate element is surrounded by the second axial portion without contacting the second axial portion. However, the substrate element may contact at least partially with the first axial portion. Accordingly, the axial lengths of the first and second axial portions and the lengths of the support element and substrate element of the article may be dimensioned such that, when the aerosol generating article is accommodated within the chamber, at least most, particularly exceeding 50% of the substrate element, but preferably all of the substrate element is aligned with the second axial portion. As used herein, the term "contacting" should be understood as a portion of the support element or substrate element contacting the axial portion indirectly or directly, depending on whether the support element and substrate element are surrounded by a wrapper.

[0084] Preferably, the support element may have a length along the length axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of a first axial portion along the central axis of the chamber. Likewise, the support element may have a length along the length axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of a second axial portion along the central axis of the chamber. Alternatively, the first axial portion may have a length greater than the length of the support element, for example, so as to be in at least partial contact with a substrate element.

[0085] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating article may comprise the following elements: a distal support element, a substrate element, a proximal support element, a cooling element, and a filter element. All of the aforementioned elements may be arranged sequentially along the longitudinal axis of the article in the order described above, wherein the distal support element is arranged at the distal end of the article and the filter element is arranged at the proximal end of the article. That is, the substrate element is located between the proximal support element and the distal support element. In particular, the substrate element is located downstream of the proximal support element and upstream of the distal support element with respect to the airflow passing through the article during use of the system. Each of the aforementioned elements may be substantially cylindrical. In particular, all elements may have the same external cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the elements may be surrounded by an external wrapper, for example, to hold the elements together and maintain the desired cross-sectional shape of the rod-shaped article. Preferably, the wrapper is made of paper.

[0086] The substrate, cooling element, and filter element can correspond to each element according to the above-described embodiment.

[0087] The distal and proximal support elements may comprise a hollow cellulose acetate tube having a free central air passage. Alternatively, the distal support element may comprise a cellulose acetate plug (without a free central air passage). The cellulose acetate plug may be used to cover and protect the distal anterior end of the base element.

[0088] When an aerosol generating device is intended to be used with an aerosol generating article according to the specific embodiment described above (two support elements), the chamber of the aerosol generating device preferably comprises a first axial portion, a second axial portion, and a third axial portion as described above. In this configuration, the device and article are preferably configured such that a proximal support element contacts the first axial portion, a distal support element contacts the third axial portion, and a substrate element is surrounded by the second axial portion without contacting the second axial portion. However, the substrate element may contact at least partially with at least one of the first axial portion or the third axial portion. Accordingly, the axial lengths of the first, second, and third axial portions and the lengths of the proximal support element, substrate element, and distal support element of the article may be dimensioned such that, when the aerosol generating article is accommodated in the chamber, at least most, particularly exceeding 50% of the substrate element, but preferably all of the substrate element is aligned with the second axial portion.

[0089] Preferably, the proximal support element may have a length along the length axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of the first axial portion along the central axis of the chamber. Likewise, the distal support element may have a length along the length axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of the third axial portion along the central axis of the chamber. Accordingly, the substrate element may have a length along the length axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of the second axial portion along the central axis of the chamber. Alternatively, at least one of the first axial portion and the second axial portion may each have a length greater than the length of the proximal support element or the distal support element, for example, so as to be in at least partial contact with the substrate element.

[0090] Any of the aforementioned configurations is advantageous for several reasons: first, the substrate element is spaced apart from the second axial portion and is less affected by condensation formation. Furthermore, the first and optional second protrusions of the first and third axial portions advantageously engage with the portion of the article that is the most rigid and tends to shrink the least during use. As a result, the article is held firmly within the chamber without the risk of being pushed out or falling off the device.

[0091] Additional features and advantages of the aerosol generating system and aerosol generating article according to the present invention have already been described in relation to an aerosol generating device and apply equally.

[0092] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" generally refers to an electrically operated device capable of interacting with an aerosol-forming substrate provided within an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol, for example, by heating the substrate. Preferably, the aerosol generating device is a puffing device for generating an aerosol that can be inhaled directly by a user through the user's mouth. In particular, the aerosol generating device is a handheld aerosol generating device.

[0093] As used herein, the term “aerosol generating article” refers to an article comprising at least one aerosol-forming substrate that releases a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol when heated. Preferably, the aerosol generating article is a heated aerosol generating article. That is, the aerosol generating article comprises at least one aerosol-forming substrate intended to be heated rather than burned to release a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol generating article may be a consumable, in particular a consumable to be discarded after a single use. For example, the article may be a cartridge comprising a liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be heated. Alternatively, the article may be a rod-shaped article, similar to a conventional cigarette, in particular a tobacco article. As mentioned above, the article may further comprise a susceptor positioned in thermal proximity or thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate so that, when the article is received within the cavity of a device, the susceptor can be inductively heated by an induction heating array upon use.

[0094] As used herein, the term "susceptor" refers to an element capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This may be the result of hysteresis losses and / or eddy currents induced in the susceptor, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the susceptor material. Hysteresis losses occur in ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic susceptors due to magnetic domains within the material that are switched under the influence of an alternating electromagnetic field. Eddy currents may be induced when the susceptor is electrically conductive. In the case of electrically conductive ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic susceptors, heat may be generated due to both eddy currents and hysteresis losses.

[0095] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate comprising or formed therefrom an aerosol-forming material capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate is intended to be heated rather than burned to release aerosol-forming volatile compounds. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate, a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, a gel-type aerosol-forming substrate, or any combination thereof. That is, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the substrate upon heating. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may further comprise an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents are glycerin and propylene glycol. The aerosol-forming substrate may also comprise other additives and components, such as nicotine or flavoring agents. The aerosol-forming material may also be a paste-type material, a sachet of porous material containing the aerosol-forming material, or loose tobacco that is mixed with a gelling agent or adhesive, which may include a common aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin, for example, and compressed or molded into a plug.

[0096] As used herein, the term “aerosol generating system” refers to a combination of an aerosol generating device according to the present invention and as described herein, and an aerosol generating article as further described herein. In the system, the article and the device cooperate to generate a respirable aerosol.

[0097] As used herein, the section closest to the user's mouth during use of the device, particularly the insertion opening of the chamber, is indicated by the prefix "proximal"—if present. The section positioned further away is indicated by the prefix "distal". Thus, the chamber may be positioned or located within the proximal portion of the aerosol generator. Likewise, the insertion opening may be positioned or located at the proximal end of the aerosol generator—if present.

[0098] As used herein, the term “extending in a direction toward the central axis” means that a plurality of first protrusions and an optional plurality of second protrusions extend into the interior of the chamber. Depending on the general shape of the chamber, the direction toward the central axis may be particularly perpendicular to the central axis. In particular, “extending in a direction toward the central axis through a reference plane area of ​​a second axial portion of the interior surface” means that each of the protrusions of the plurality of first protrusions and each of the optional plurality of second protrusions extend in a direction toward the central axis through a corresponding area of ​​a reference plane area of ​​a second axial portion having the same azimuth position with respect to the central axis of the chamber. That is, at a given azimuth position of each first or optional second protrusion, the reference plane area of ​​the second portion becomes concave outwardly with respect to each first or optional second protrusion, as if extending outwardly away from the central axis.

[0099] As used herein, the term “configured to be in contact with at least a portion of an aerosol generating article” should be understood to mean that when the aerosol generating article is contained within a chamber, at least a portion of the protrusions of a plurality of first protrusions, in particular, at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, and more preferably at least 90% of the plurality of first protrusions are in contact with the aerosol generating article. The same applies to an optional plurality of second protrusions. That is, the term “configured to be in contact with at least a portion of an aerosol generating article” should be understood to mean that when the aerosol generating article is contained within a chamber, at least a portion of the protrusions of a plurality of second protrusions, in particular, at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, and more preferably at least 90% of the plurality of second protrusions are in contact with the aerosol generating article.

[0100] As used herein, the term “reference plane area” of the first axial portion, the second axial portion, and the optional third axial portion refers to these areas of the first axial portion, the second axial portion, and the optional third axial portion that do not include indentations or protrusions. That is, the reference plane area refers to these areas of the first axial portion, the second axial portion, and the optional third axial portion that remain when masking multiple indentations or protrusions, or when not considering multiple indentations or protrusions.

[0101] A non-limiting, non-comprehensive list of embodiments is provided below. Any one or more features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of other embodiments, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0102] Example 1: An aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol generating article, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating article, and along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber comprises a first axial portion and a second axial portion, wherein the first axial portion is closer to the proximal end of the chamber than the second axial portion, and the second axial portion is recessed including a plurality of indentations, wherein the plurality of indentations extend outwardly, particularly radially, from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction farther from the central axis, and the first axial portion comprises a plurality of first protrusions, wherein the plurality of first protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol generating article received in the chamber, and the plurality of first protrusions extend from the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion through the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction toward the central axis.

[0103] Example 2: An aerosol generating device according to Example 1, wherein, along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber comprises a third axial portion, the third axial portion is closer to the distal end of the chamber than the second axial portion, the third axial portion comprises a plurality of second protrusions, the plurality of second protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of an aerosol generating article contained within the chamber, and the plurality of second protrusions extend from a reference plane area of ​​the third axial portion through a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion toward the central axis.

[0104] Example 3: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein at least one of the plurality of indentations, in particular each of the plurality of indentations, has a conical shape or a truncated conical shape or a pyramidal shape or a prism shape or a truncated pyramidal shape or a dome shape or a rectangular shape or a partially spherical shape or a trihedral shape or a polyhedral shape.

[0105] Example 4: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein at least one opening area among the plurality of indentations, in particular, each of the opening areas among the plurality of indentations has a circular shape or an egg shape or an elliptical shape or a rectangular shape or a quadratic shape or a rhombus shape or a parallelogram shape or a triangular shape or a hexagonal shape or a polygonal shape.

[0106] Example 5: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned examples, wherein the density of the plurality of indentations is 0.1 to 1.0 indentations / mm 2 , preferably 0.2 to 0.7 indentation / mm 2 It is the range of.

[0107] Example 6: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein at least one of the plurality of indentations has a depth dimension in a direction perpendicular to the opening area of ​​each indentation in a range of 0.25 mm to 2 mm, preferably in a range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0108] Example 7: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the plurality of indentations are arranged in a regular pattern.

[0109] Example 8: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the second axial portion is a coherent zone.

[0110] Example 9: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion has a hexagonal grid pattern.

[0111] Example 10: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the second axial portion has a cross-shaped grid pattern.

[0112] Example 11: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the second axial portion has a length in the range of at least 20% of the total length of the inner surface or the chamber in the central axial direction, particularly 20% to 40% or 25% to 40% or 30% to 35% of the total length of the inner surface or the chamber.

[0113] Example 12: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, preferably each one, has a conical shape or a truncated conical shape or a pyramidal shape or a prickly shape or a truncated pyramidal shape or a dome shape or a rectangular shape or a partially spherical shape or a cylindrical shape or a trihedral shape or a polyhedral shape.

[0114] Example 13: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein at least one of the optional plurality of second protrusions, preferably each one, has a conical shape or a truncated conical shape or a pyramidal shape or a prickly shape or a truncated pyramidal shape or a dome shape or a rectangular shape or a partially spherical shape or a cylindrical shape or a trihedral shape or a polyhedral shape.

[0115] Example 14: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the first protrusion and the optional second protrusion may substantially be point-like protrusions.

[0116] Example 15: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the prior embodiments, wherein at least one of the density of the plurality of first protrusions and the density of the optional plurality of second protrusions is 0.25 to 1.5 protrusions / mm 2 , particularly 0.5 to 0.75 protrusions / mm 2 It is a range.

[0117] Example 16: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, preferably each one, has a height dimension in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, particularly in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0118] Example 17: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, preferably each one, has a height dimension in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, particularly 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0119] Example 18: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the plurality of first protrusions are arranged in a regular pattern.

[0120] Example 19: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the plurality of second protrusions are arranged in a regular pattern.

[0121] Example 20: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein at least one of the reference plane region of the first axial portion and the reference plane region of the optional third axial portion is a coherent region.

[0122] Example 21: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein at least one of the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion has a cross-shaped grid pattern.

[0123] Example 22: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the chamber has a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially tapered shape, in particular a substantially conical shape or a substantially truncated conical shape.

[0124] Example 23: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the chamber has a substantially circular cross section or a substantially elliptical cross section or a substantially egg-shaped cross section or a substantially square cross section or a substantially rectangular cross section or a substantially triangular cross section or a substantially polygonal cross section as can be seen in a plane perpendicular to the central axis.

[0125] Example 24: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the chamber includes an insertion opening for inserting the aerosol generating article into the chamber.

[0126] Example 25: An aerosol generating device according to Example 24, wherein the insertion opening is located at the proximal end of the aerosol generating device, particularly at the proximal end of the chamber.

[0127] Example 26: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the device comprises one or more end stops arranged within the chamber, particularly at the distal end of the chamber.

[0128] Example 27: An aerosol generating device according to Example 26, wherein the plurality of terminal stops are symmetrically arranged around the central axis, and in particular are evenly spaced around the central axis.

[0129] Example 28: An aerosol generating device according to Example 26 or 27, wherein one or more end stops have dimensions in the direction of the central axis in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, particularly in the range of 1 mm to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, for example 1.4 mm.

[0130] Example 29: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 26 to 28, wherein one or more end stops have a radial extension perpendicular to the central axis in a range of 0.7 mm to 6 mm, particularly in a range of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably in a range of 2 mm to 4 mm.

[0131] Example 30: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 26 to 29, wherein one or more end stops have the shape of a ring-segment.

[0132] Example 31: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion are arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface.

[0133] Example 32: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion are arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface.

[0134] Example 33: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion are arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface.

[0135] Example 34: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion, the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion, and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion are arranged on a common shell surface, in particular on a common cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical shell surface.

[0136] Example 35: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments, wherein the device may include a main body and a chamber module that is accommodated in a cavity of the main body or attached to the main body, and the chamber module includes the chamber.

[0137] Example 36: A chamber module for use in an aerosol generating device, wherein the chamber module comprises a chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating article, and along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber comprises a first axial portion and a second axial portion, wherein the first axial portion is closer to the proximal end of the chamber than the second axial portion, and the second axial portion is recessed including a plurality of indentations, wherein the plurality of indentations extend outwardly, particularly radially, from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction farther from the central axis, and the first axial portion comprises a plurality of first protrusions, wherein the plurality of first protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol generating article received in the chamber, and the plurality of first protrusions extend from the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion through the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction toward the central axis.

[0138] Example 37: A chamber module according to Example 36, wherein the chamber module is configured to be accommodated within a cavity of the main body of an aerosol generating device or to be attached to the main body of an aerosol generating device.

[0139] Example 38: An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of the above-described embodiments and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate, wherein at least a portion of the aerosol generating article is removablely accommodated in a chamber of the aerosol generating device or is removablely accommodated.

[0140] Example 39: An aerosol generating system according to the example, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises at least a proximal support element, an optional distal support element, and a substrate element comprising the aerosol forming substrate, wherein the substrate element is positioned between the first support element and the second support element, wherein the substrate element is positioned downstream of the proximal support element and upstream of the optional distal support element in relation to the airflow passing through the article during use of the system, and when the article is received in the receiving chamber, the proximal support element is in contact with the first axial portion, the optional third axial portion is in contact with the optional distal support element, and the substrate element is surrounded by the second axial portion without contacting the second axial portion. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0141] Now, the present invention will be further described with reference to the drawings: FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating system according to the present invention, comprising an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article; FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an aerosol generating system according to FIG. 1 without any articles; FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a chamber module of the device according to FIG. 1 in a perspective view; FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a chamber module according to FIG. 3 in a cross-sectional view; FIGS. 5 to 7 schematically illustrate different embodiments of the first, second, and third axial portions of the inner surface of the chamber of the device according to FIG. 1. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0142] Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 This schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating system (1) according to the present invention. The system (1) comprises two main components: an aerosol generating article (200), and an aerosol generating device (100) for use with the article (200) to generate an inhalable aerosol by heating an aerosol forming substrate (222) contained within the article (200).

[0143] The aerosol generating device (100) has an elongated shape and includes a main body (110) and a sleeve-shaped chamber module (120). The chamber module (120) includes a chamber (121) for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article (200). The chamber module (120) is inserted into a cavity (111) formed within a proximal portion (112) of the main body (110). Within a distal portion (113), the main body (110) includes a power source (150) and a controller (160) for supplying power to the device (100) and controlling the operation of the device.

[0144] The article (200) has a rod shape similar to the shape of a conventional cigarette. In this embodiment, the article (200) comprises five elements arranged in coaxial alignment: a distal support element (210), a base element (220), a proximal support element (230), an aerosol cooling element (240), and a filter plug (250). The distal support element (210) is arranged at the distal end of the article (200). The base element (220) comprises an aerosol-forming base (222) to be heated. The aerosol-forming base (222) may comprise, for example, a crimped sheet of homogenized tobacco material containing glycerin as an aerosol-forming agent. The proximal support element (230) comprises a hollow core forming a central air passage (232). The filter plug (250) serves as a mouthpiece and may comprise, for example, cellulose acetate fiber. The five elements are substantially cylindrical elements arranged alternately in sequence. The elements are surrounded by an outer wrapper (260) made of cigarette paper having substantially the same diameter, forming, for example, a cylindrical rod. The outer wrapper (260) may be wrapped around the aforementioned elements such that the free ends of the wrappers overlap each other. The wrapper may further include an adhesive that bonds the overlapping free ends of the wrappers together.

[0145] To heat a substrate (222) within an article (200), the aerosol generating device (100) according to the present invention includes an induction heating device. The induction heating device includes an induction coil (170) for generating an alternating, particularly high-frequency magnetic field within a chamber (121). Preferably, the high-frequency magnetic field may be in the range of 500 kHz (kilohertz) to 30 MHz (megahertz), particularly 5 MHz (megahertz) to 15 MHz (megahertz), preferably 5 MHz (megahertz) to 10 MHz (megahertz). In this embodiment, the induction coil (170) is a helical coil that circumferentially surrounds a cylindrical chamber module (120) along its length axis (122). The alternating magnetic field is used to inductively heat a susceptor (270) arranged within an aerosol-forming substrate (222) of an article (200) so as to experience a magnetic field generated by an induction coil (170) when the article (200) is received within a chamber (121), for example. In this embodiment, the susceptor (270) is a susceptor blade arranged within a substrate element (220) along the longitudinal axis of the article (200) so as to be in direct physical contact with, for example, the aerosol-forming substrate (222).

[0146] Accordingly, when the induction heating device is operated, high-frequency alternating current passes through the induction coil (170) to generate an alternating magnetic field within the chamber (121). Depending on the magnetic and electrical properties of each susceptor material, the alternating magnetic field induces at least one of eddy current or hysteresis loss in the susceptor (270). Consequently, the susceptor (270) is heated until it reaches a temperature sufficient to form an aerosol from the substrate (222). The generated aerosol can be inhaled downstream through the aerosol generating article (200) for inhalation by a user.

[0147] Fig. 3 and Fig. 4This illustrates additional details of the chamber (121) defined by the chamber module (120) and the wall surface of the chamber module (120). The chamber module (120) is an elongated sleeve comprising an insertion opening (126) through which an aerosol generating article (200) can be inserted into the chamber (121) from the proximal end (101) of the device (100). The insertion direction of the aerosol generating article (200) extends substantially along the central axis (122) of the chamber (121). The chamber module (120) is made of PEEK (polyether ether ketone). In this embodiment, the chamber (121) has a substantially cylindrical shape with a substantially circular cross-section having a diameter of about 15 mm. The cylindrical shape and circular cross-section of the chamber (121) substantially correspond to the cylindrical shape and circular cross-section of the aerosol generating article (200).

[0148] The chamber (121) includes an inner surface (130) that extends along the entire axial length of the chamber (121). In this embodiment, the axial length of the chamber (121) is in the range of 25 mm to 28 mm. Along the central axis (122) of the chamber (121), the inner surface (130) includes a first axial portion (131), a second axial portion (132), and a third axial portion (133), the first axial portion (131) is closer to the proximal end (124) of the chamber (121) than the second axial portion (132), and the third axial portion (133) is closer to the distal end (123) of the chamber (121) than the second axial portion (132). Thus, the second axial portion (132) is located between the first axial portion (131) and the third axial portion (133). The length of the second axial section (132) is about 33% (about 1 / 3) of the axial length (129) of the chamber (121). The same is maintained for the length of the first axial section (131). In contrast, the length of the third axial section (133) is slightly shorter than the lengths of the first and second axial sections (131, 132).

[0149] The first axial portion (131) includes a plurality of first protrusions (141) extending from the reference plane area (145) of the first axial portion (131) toward the central axis (122) through the reference plane area (146) of the second axial portion (132). Likewise, the third axial portion (133) includes a plurality of second protrusions (143) extending from the reference plane area (147) of the third axial portion (133) toward the central axis (122) through the reference plane area (146) of the second axial portion (132). In contrast to the first and third axial portions (131, 133), the second axial portion (132) does not include any protrusions. Instead, the second axial portion (132) is recessed and includes a plurality of indentations (142) that extend outward from the reference plane area (146) of the second axial portion (132) in a direction far from the central axis (122).

[0150] Accordingly, when the article (200) is inserted into the chamber (121), the article (200) comes into contact only with the plurality of first protrusions (141) and the plurality of second protrusions (143). In contrast, the article (200) does not come into contact with the second axial portion (132) of the inner surface (130). As a result, the total contact area between the article (200) and the inner surface (130) of the chamber (121) is significantly reduced. Advantageously, this results in an overall reduction in heat loss due to direct heat conduction from the aerosol-generating article (200) to the inner surface (130). Furthermore, the adverse wetting effect on the article (200) due to condensation formation within the chamber (121) is also reduced. Additionally, the reduced contact surface area reduces the frictional force to be overcome when moving the article (200) into or out of the chamber (121), so the reduced contact surface area makes the insertion and removal of the article (200) easier.

[0151] Despite the reduced contact area between the article (200) and the inner surface (130), the article (200) is still firmly held within the chamber (121) by the first and second protrusions (131, 132). In this embodiment, this applies more because the arrangement and dimensions of the first, second, and third axial parts (131, 132, 133) are compatible with the arrangement and dimensions of the proximal support element (230), the base element (220), and the distal support element (210). As can be seen in FIG. 1, when the article (200) is received within the chamber (121), the proximal support element (230) contacts the first protrusion (141) of the first axial part (131), and the distal support element (210) contacts the second protrusion (143) of the third axial part (133). In contrast, the substrate element (220) is substantially surrounded by the second axial portion (132), but there is no contact with it. Only at the very axial end does the substrate element (220) partially contact the first protrusion (141) of the first axial portion (131) and the second protrusion (143) of the third axial portion (133). However, it will be understood that in an alternative embodiment, even the very axial end may not contact the protrusions (141, 143) or the first and third axial portions (131, 133), and instead the entire substrate element (220) may be within the second axial portion (132). Due to this specific configuration, the first and second protrusions (141, 143) of the first and second axial portions (131, 133) substantially engage only with these parts of the article (200) that are the most rigid and tend to shrink the least during use.

[0152] Additionally, referring to FIG. 1, the free space between the first and second protrusions (141, 143) forms a multidimensional matrix of airflow passages that allow air to flow between the inner surface (130) of the chamber (121) and the outer surface of the aerosol generating article (200) inserted into the chamber (121). Thus, when negative pressure is applied to the filter element (250) of the aerosol generating article (200) contained within the receiving chamber (121), for example when a user takes a puff, air is drawn into the receiving chamber (121) from the rim of the insertion opening (126), from the proximal end (101) of the device (100), and from the proximal end (124) of the chamber (121). This airflow further passes into the lower end at the distal end (123) of the receiving chamber (121) along the inner surface (130) along the multi-channel airflow passages. Here, the airflow enters the aerosol generating article (200) through the distal support element (210), further passes through the substrate element (220), proximal support element (230), aerosol cooling element (240), and filter element (250), where the airflow finally exits the article (200). In the substrate element (240), vaporized material from the aerosol forming substrate is entrained into the airflow and subsequently cooled further through the proximal support element (230), aerosol cooling element (240), and filter element (250) to form, for example, an aerosol. In order to enable proper diversion of airflow into an aerosol generating article (200) at the distal end (123) of a receiving chamber (121), the aerosol generating device (100) according to the present embodiment includes a distal end stop (128) arranged at the distal end (123) of the receiving chamber (121). The distal end stop (128) is configured to limit the insertion depth of the article (200) into the receiving chamber (121) and thus prevent the article (200) from coming into contact with the bottom surface of the receiving chamber (121). This is illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0153] In relation to the airflow passing along the inner surface (130) from the proximal end (124) of the chamber (121) toward the distal end (123) of the chamber (121), a plurality of indentations (142) within the second axial portion (132) cause the airflow along the second axial portion (132) to become turbulent. Advantageously, the turbulent airflow improves airflow management through the device (100) and, in particular, ensures sufficient heat exchange between the air flowing around the article. Additionally, the dimples (142) of the second axial portion (132) advantageously promote the turbulent airflow in the region of the second axial portion (132), which helps provide improved aerosol characteristics compared to conventional aerosol generation systems.

[0154] In this embodiment, the first and second protrusions (141, 143) are formed as point-like protrusions having a pimple shape. The first and second protrusions (141, 143) are arranged in a regular matrix pattern. In contrast, the plurality of press-fit portions (142) have a cylindrical shape having a hexagonal cross-section. That is, the opening area of ​​each press-fit portion (142) has a hexagonal shape or a hexagonal cross-section. The press-fit portions (142) are arranged in a hexagonal pattern, particularly a honeycomb configuration. Accordingly, the reference plane area (146) of the second axial portion (132) has a hexagonal grid pattern, particularly a honeycomb pattern.

[0155] The reference plane zones of the first and third axial sections (131, 133) and the reference plane zone of the second axial section are all coherent zones that do not have isolated sections.

[0156] In particular, as can be seen in FIG. 4, the first and second protrusions (141, 143) have the same height dimension (148). Likewise, all press-ins (142) have the same depth dimension (149). In relation to good airflow management, the height dimension (148) is preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm when measured radially toward the central axis (122), particularly in the range of 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm. Likewise, the press-ins (142) have a depth dimension (149) in a direction perpendicular to the opening area of ​​each press-ins, preferably in the range of 0.25 mm to 2 mm, preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0157] The formation of turbulent airflow may also be influenced by the density of the indentations (147). Preferably, the density of the plurality of indentations (147) is 0.1 to 1.0 indentations / mm 2 , preferably 0.2 to 0.7 indentation / mm 2 It is a range. Likewise, the density of the plurality of first protrusions and second protrusions (141, 143) is 0.25 to 1.5 protrusions / mm 2 , particularly 0.5 to 0.75 protrusions / mm 2 It is a range. As used herein, the density per square millimeter refers to the area content of the protrusions of each axial portion (131, 132, 133) on the reference plane area in a direction perpendicular to the envelope surface tangent for each point of each reference plane area (145, 146, 147), as shown in FIG. 4 by dashed lines (191, 192). In this embodiment, the density of the plurality of first protrusions (141) and the density of the plurality of second protrusions (143) are the same, but lower than the density of the plurality of indentations (147).

[0158] Fig. 5 and Fig. 6Each section of an alternative embodiment of the first and third axial portions of the inner surface (231, 233, 331, 333) is schematically illustrated. In FIG. 5, the first and second protrusions (241, 243) have a rectangular shape and are arranged in a square pattern. Accordingly, each reference plane area (245, 247) has a square grid pattern. In FIG. 6, the first and second protrusions (341, 343) have a pyramidal shape. Each reference plane area (345, 347) has a cross grid pattern, for example, to provide a linear airflow passage between the first and second protrusions (341, 343).

[0159] Fig. 7 The second axial portion (432) shows an alternative embodiment. Here, the second axial portion (432) includes a plurality of press-fit portions (442), each having a partially spherical shape with a circular cross-section. That is, the opening area of ​​each press-fit portion (442) has a circular shape or a circular cross-section. The press-fit portions (442) are arranged in a square grid pattern.

[0160] For the purposes of this description and the appended claims, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., unless otherwise indicated, shall be understood as modified by the term “about” in all cases. Additionally, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. Accordingly, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± 5% of A.

Claims

Claim 1 An aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol generating article, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating article, and along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber comprises a first axial portion and a second axial portion, wherein the first axial portion is closer to the proximal end of the chamber than the second axial portion, and the second axial portion is recessed and includes a plurality of indentations, wherein the plurality of indentations are puntiform and extend outwardly from a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction farther from the central axis, and wherein the first axial portion comprises a plurality of first protrusions, wherein the plurality of first protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol generating article received in the chamber, and wherein the plurality of first protrusions extend from a reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion through a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion in a direction toward the central axis. Claim 2 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein, along the central axis of the chamber, the inner surface of the chamber comprises a third axial portion, the third axial portion is closer to the distal end of the chamber than the second axial portion, the third axial portion comprises a plurality of second protrusions, the plurality of second protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of an aerosol generating article contained within the chamber, and the plurality of second protrusions extend from a reference plane area of ​​the third axial portion through a reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion toward the central axis. Claim 3 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the plurality of indentations has a conical shape, a truncated conical shape, a pyramidal shape, a prism shape, a truncated pyramidal shape, a dome shape, a rectangular shape, a partially spherical shape, a cylindrical shape, a trihedral shape, or a polyhedral shape. Claim 4 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one opening area among the plurality of indentation portions has a circular shape, an egg shape, an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, a quadratic shape, a rhombus shape, a parallelogram shape, a triangular shape, a hexagonal shape, or a polygonal shape. Claim 5 In claim 1 or 2, the density of the plurality of indentations is 0.1 to 1.0 indentations / mm 2 Aerosol generating device within the range of. Claim 6 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the plurality of indentations has a depth dimension in a direction perpendicular to the opening area of ​​each indentation in the range of 0.25 mm to 2 mm. Claim 7 An aerosol generating device according to paragraph 2, wherein each of the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion, the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion, and the optional reference plane area of ​​the third axial portion is a coherent area. Claim 8 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reference plane area of ​​the second axial portion has a hexagonal grid pattern. Claim 9 An aerosol generating device according to paragraph 2, wherein at least one of the reference plane area of ​​the first axial portion and the reference plane area of ​​the optional third axial portion has a cross-shaped grid pattern. Claim 10 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second axial portion has a length of at least 20% of the total length of the inner surface or the chamber in the direction of the central axis. Claim 11 An aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the plurality of first protrusions has a conical shape, a truncated conical shape, a pyramidal shape, a prism shape, a truncated pyramidal shape, a dome shape, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, a partially spherical shape, a cylindrical shape, a trihedral shape, or a polyhedral shape; and / or optionally at least one of the plurality of second protrusions has a conical shape, a truncated conical shape, a pyramidal shape, a prism shape, a truncated pyramidal shape, a dome shape, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, a partially spherical shape, a cylindrical shape, a trihedral shape, or a polyhedral shape. Claim 12 In paragraph 2, at least one of the density of the plurality of first protrusions and the optional density of the plurality of second protrusions is 0.25 to 1.5 protrusions / mm 2 Aerosol generating device within the range of. Claim 13 An aerosol generating device according to paragraph 2, wherein at least one of the plurality of first protrusions has a height dimension in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm; and / or at least one of the plurality of second protrusions has a height dimension in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Claim 14 An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to paragraph 2 and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate, wherein at least a portion of the aerosol generating article is removablely accommodated within a chamber of the aerosol generating device or is removablely accommodated. Claim 15 In claim 14, the aerosol generating article comprises a substrate element including at least a proximal support element and an optional distal support element and the aerosol forming substrate, wherein the substrate element is located downstream of the proximal support element and upstream of the optional distal support element in relation to the airflow passing through the article during use of the system, and when the article is contained within the chamber, the proximal support element is in contact with the first axial portion, the optional third axial portion is in contact with the optional distal support element, and the substrate element is surrounded by the second axial portion without contacting the second axial portion.

Images