An aerosol-generating device comprising an induction heating device comprising a first LC circuit and a second LC circuit having the same resonant frequency

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device comprising: an inductive heating arrangement configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, the inductive heating arrangement comprising: a susceptor arrangement heatable by penetration by a varying magnetic field to heat the aerosol-forming substrate, a first LC circuit comprising at least a first inductor coil and a first capacitor, wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency, and a second LC circuit comprising at least a second inductor coil and a second capacitor, wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit; and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to drive the first LC circuit with a first AC current for generating a first alternating magnetic field to heat a first portion of the susceptor arrangement, wherein the controller is configured to drive the second LC circuit with a second AC current for generating a second alternating magnetic field to heat a second portion of the susceptor arrangement, and wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits and to supply the second AC current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency. An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus having an induction heating device, a method for controlling the aerosol generating apparatus having an induction heating device, and an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating apparatus having an induction heating device. Background Technology

[0002] Numerous electrically operated aerosol generation systems have been proposed in this art, in which an aerosol generation device with an electric heater is used to heat an aerosol-forming matrix, such as a tobacco stick. One objective of such aerosol generation systems is to reduce known types of harmful smoke components produced by the combustion and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco in conventional cigarettes. Typically, the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​provided as part of an aerosol-forming article inserted into a cavity of the aerosol-forming device. In some known systems, in order to heat the aerosol-forming matrix to a temperature capable of releasing volatile components that can form aerosols, resistive heating elements (such as heating blades) are inserted into or around the aerosol-forming matrix when the article is received in the aerosol-forming device. In other aerosol generation systems, an induction heater is used instead of a resistive heating element. An induction heater typically includes an inductor coil that forms part of the aerosol-forming device, and a sensor arranged such that it is thermally adjacent to the aerosol-forming matrix. The inductor generates a changing magnetic field to induce eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the sensor, causing the sensor to heat up, thereby heating the aerosol-forming matrix. Induction heating allows the generation of aerosols without exposing the heater to the aerosol-generating articles. This improves the ease with which the heater can be cleaned.

[0003] Some known aerosol generating devices include more than one inductor coil, each arranged to heat different parts of the sensor. Such aerosol generating devices can be used to heat different parts of the aerosol-generated article at different times or temperatures. However, such aerosol generating devices may struggle to heat a portion of the aerosol-generated article without indirectly heating adjacent parts of the article. Summary of the Invention

[0004] It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating apparatus that mitigates or overcomes these problems of known systems.

[0005] According to the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising: an induction heating device configured to heat an aerosol forming matrix, the induction heating device including: a sensor device that can be heated by penetration by a changing magnetic field to heat the aerosol forming matrix; a first LC circuit including at least a first sensor coil and a first capacitor, wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency; and a second LC circuit including at least a second sensor coil and a second capacitor, wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit; and a controller configured to drive the first LC circuit with a first AC current for generating a first alternating magnetic field to heat a first portion of the sensor device, wherein the controller is configured to drive the second LC circuit with a second AC current for generating a second alternating magnetic field to heat a second portion of the sensor device, and wherein the controller is configured to supply a first AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuit, and supply a second AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency, and vice versa.

[0006] The controller can be configured to supply the first AC current to the first LC circuit during a first phase to increase the temperature of a first portion of the sensor device from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuit during the first phase.

[0007] The controller can be configured to supply the first AC current to the first LC circuit during a second phase to reduce the temperature of a first portion of the sensor device from the first operating temperature to a second operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuit during the second phase.

[0008] The controller can be configured to supply the second AC current to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the sensor device from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature below the first operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply the second AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuit during the first phase.

[0009] The controller can be configured to supply the second AC current to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the sensor device from the third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature higher than the second operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply the second AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuit during the second phase.

[0010] The aerosol generating apparatus may further include a power supply for supplying power to the induction heating apparatus.

[0011] The controller may include a microcontroller.

[0012] The microcontroller can be configured to use its clock frequency as one or both of the alternation frequency of the first AC current and the alternation frequency of the second AC current.

[0013] The aerosol generating device may further include an oscillator for generating one or both of the alternating frequency of the first AC current and the alternating frequency of the second AC current.

[0014] The controller may further include an oscillator for generating one or both of the alternating frequency of the first AC current and the alternating frequency of the second AC current.

[0015] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to the present invention and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol forming matrix.

[0016] According to the present invention, a method for controlling an aerosol generating apparatus is also provided, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: an induction heating device configured to heat an aerosol forming matrix, the induction heating device comprising: a sensor device that can be heated by penetration by a changing magnetic field to heat the aerosol forming matrix; a first LC circuit including at least a first sensor coil and a first capacitor, wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency; and a second LC circuit including at least a second sensor coil and a second capacitor, wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit; and a controller configured to drive the first LC circuit and the second LC circuit, the method comprising: driving the first LC circuit with a first AC current for generating a first alternating magnetic field to heat a first portion of the sensor device; driving the second LC circuit with a second AC current for generating a second alternating magnetic field to heat a second portion of the sensor device; and supplying a first AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuit, and supplying a second AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency, and vice versa.

[0017] The first AC current can be supplied to the first LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the first portion of the sensor device from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, wherein the first AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuit is supplied during the first phase.

[0018] The first AC current can be supplied to the first LC circuit during the second phase to reduce the temperature of the first portion of the sensor device from the first operating temperature to the second operating temperature, wherein the first AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuit is supplied during the second phase.

[0019] The second AC current can be supplied to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the second part of the sensor device from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature below the first operating temperature, wherein the second AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuit is supplied during the first phase.

[0020] The second AC current can be supplied to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase the temperature of the second part of the sensor device from the third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature higher than the second operating temperature, wherein the second AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuit is supplied during the second phase.

[0021] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol forming matrix. Aerosol forming matrices are typically part of aerosol-generating articles.

[0022] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. For example, an aerosol-generating article may be an article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user by inhaling or puffing it through a mouthpiece at the proximal end or user end of the system. Aerosol-generating articles may be disposable. Articles comprising an aerosol-forming matrix containing tobacco may be referred to as tobacco sticks.

[0023] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" refers to an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols.

[0024] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation product. In an aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation product and the aerosol generation device work together to generate inhalable aerosols.

[0025] As used herein, the term "changing current" includes any current that changes over time to produce a changing magnetic field. The term "changing current" is intended to include alternating current. In the case where the changing current is alternating current, the alternating current generates an alternating magnetic field.

[0026] As used herein, the term "length" refers to the principal dimension in the longitudinal direction of an aerosol generating apparatus, or an aerosol generating article, or a component of an aerosol generating apparatus or an aerosol generating article.

[0027] As used herein, the term "width" refers to the principal dimension in the transverse direction at a specific location along its length of an aerosol generating apparatus or aerosol generating article, or a component of an aerosol generating apparatus or aerosol generating article. The term "thickness" refers to the dimension in the transverse direction perpendicular to the width.

[0028] As used herein, the term "cross section" is used to describe a cross section of an aerosol generating apparatus or aerosol generating article, or a component of an aerosol generating apparatus or aerosol generating article, located at a specific position along its length in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0029] As used herein, the term "proximal" refers to the user end or port end of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article. The proximal end of an assembly of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article is the end of the component closest to the user end or port end of the aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article. As used herein, the term "distal" refers to the end opposite the proximal end.

[0030] The first stage can have a predetermined duration. The second stage can have a predetermined duration. The duration of the first stage and the duration of the second stage can be the same. The duration of the second stage can be different from the duration of the first stage. Advantageously, this allows the system to heat the first part and the second part of the aerosol-forming matrix at different times. The duration of the second stage can be shorter than the duration of the first stage. The duration of the second stage can be longer than the duration of the first stage.

[0031] The duration of the first phase can be between approximately 50 seconds and approximately 200 seconds. The duration of the second phase can be between approximately 50 seconds and approximately 200 seconds. The combined duration of the first and second phases can be between approximately 100 seconds and approximately 400 seconds. The combined duration of the first and second phases can be between approximately 150 seconds and approximately 300 seconds.

[0032] In some embodiments, the system further includes a suction detector configured to detect when a user inhales onto the system to receive aerosols. In these embodiments, the duration of the first phase may be based on a first predetermined number of inhalations detected by the suction detector. The first predetermined number of inhalations may be between 2 and 5. In these embodiments, the duration of the second phase may be based on a second predetermined number of inhalations detected by the suction detector. The second predetermined number of inhalations may be between 2 and 5. In these embodiments, the combined duration of the first and second phases may be based on a combined predetermined number of inhalations detected by the suction detector. The combined predetermined number of inhalations may be between 3 and 10 user inhalations.

[0033] In some preferred embodiments, the first phase ends after a first maximum number of aspirations is detected, or earlier when a first maximum duration is reached. The first maximum number of aspirations can be between 2 and 5, and the first maximum duration is between 50 seconds and approximately 200 seconds.

[0034] In some preferred embodiments, the second phase ends after a second maximum number of aspirations is detected, or earlier when a second maximum duration is reached. The second maximum number of aspirations can be between 2 and 5, and the second maximum duration can be between 50 seconds and approximately 200 seconds.

[0035] The first AC current can be controlled such that the temperature of the first part of the sensor device increases from the initial temperature according to a first operating temperature distribution curve. The first temperature distribution curve is a predetermined desired temperature of the first part of the sensor device over time. At any given time point, when the actual temperature of the first part of the sensor device differs from the temperature of the first temperature distribution curve at that time point, the first AC current is adjusted to adjust the temperature of the first part of the sensor device to the temperature specified by the first temperature distribution curve at that time.

[0036] Similarly, the second AC current can be controlled to increase the temperature of the second part of the sensor device from the initial temperature according to a second temperature distribution curve. The second temperature distribution curve represents a predetermined desired temperature of the second part of the sensor device over time. At any given time point, when the actual temperature of the second part of the sensor device differs from the temperature specified by the second temperature distribution curve at that time point, the second AC current is adjusted to adjust the temperature of the second part of the sensor device to the temperature specified by the second temperature distribution curve at that time.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile is substantially constant. In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile varies over time.

[0038] In some embodiments, the second operating temperature profile is substantially constant. In some embodiments, the second operating temperature profile varies over time.

[0039] In some embodiments, during at least a portion of the first stage, the first operating temperature profile is larger than the second operating temperature profile. In these embodiments, during at least a portion of the first stage, the first operating temperature profile is at least about 50 degrees Celsius larger than the second operating temperature profile. Throughout the entire first stage, the first operating temperature profile may be larger than the second operating temperature profile.

[0040] In some embodiments, in the second stage, the first operating temperature distribution curve and the second operating temperature distribution curve are substantially the same. In some embodiments, in the second stage, the second operating temperature distribution curve is within approximately 5 degrees Celsius of the first operating temperature distribution curve.

[0041] In some embodiments, in at least a portion of the second stage, the second operating temperature profile is larger than the first operating temperature profile. In these embodiments, in the second stage, the second operating temperature profile may be no more than about 50 degrees Celsius larger than the first operating temperature profile.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile is substantially constant for at least a portion of the first stage. The first operating temperature profile may be constant during the first stage.

[0043] In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile is substantially constant for at least a portion of the second stage. The first operating temperature profile may be constant during the second stage.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second operating temperature distribution curve is substantially constant for at least a portion of the second stage. The second operating temperature distribution curve may be constant during the second stage.

[0045] During at least a portion of the first stage, the first operating temperature profile may be between approximately 180 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius. During at least a portion of the second stage, the first operating temperature profile may be between approximately 160 degrees Celsius and approximately 260 degrees Celsius. During at least a portion of the second stage, the second operating temperature profile may be between approximately 180 degrees Celsius and approximately 300 degrees Celsius.

[0046] Receptor devices can have any suitable form. Receptor devices can have an integral structure. Receptor devices can include multiple integral structures. Receptor devices can be elongated. Receptor devices can have any suitable cross-section. For example, a receptor device can have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other polygonal cross-section.

[0047] In some embodiments, the sensor device may include an internal heating element. As used herein, the term "internal heating element" refers to a heating element configured to be inserted into an aerosol-forming matrix.

[0048] In some embodiments, the receptor device may be configured to penetrate the aerosol forming matrix when received by the device. In these embodiments, the internal heating element is preferably configured to be insertable into the aerosol forming matrix. The internal heating element may be in the form of a blade. The internal heating element may be in the form of a needle. The internal heating element may be in the form of a cone. Where the aerosol generating device includes a device cavity for receiving the aerosol forming matrix, preferably, the internal heating element extends into the device cavity.

[0049] In some embodiments, the sensor device may be an external heating element. As used herein, the term "external heating element" refers to a heating element configured to heat the outer surface of the aerosol forming matrix. Preferably, the external heating element is configured to at least partially surround the aerosol forming matrix when received by the aerosol generating device. The sensor device may be configured to heat the outer surface of the aerosol forming matrix when it is received in the sensor device cavity.

[0050] The sensor device can be configured to substantially define the aerosol-forming matrix when the device receives the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0051] The receptor device may include a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming matrix. The receptor device may include an outer side and an inner side opposite to the outer side. The inner side may at least partially define the receptor device cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming matrix. A first portion of the receptor device may be tubular and define a portion of the receptor device cavity. A second portion of the receptor device may be tubular and define a portion of the receptor device cavity.

[0052] In some embodiments, the receptor device includes a plurality of cavities for receiving an aerosol forming matrix. The cavities of a first portion of the receptor device may form a first cavity of the receptor device, and the cavities of a second portion of the receptor device may form a second cavity of the receptor device.

[0053] In some preferred embodiments, the receptor device includes a single lumen for receiving an aerosol-forming matrix. In these embodiments, the lumen of a first portion of the receptor device defines a portion of the single lumen of the receptor device, and the lumen of a second portion of the receptor device defines a second portion of the single lumen of the receptor device. In some preferred embodiments, the receptor device is a tubular receptor device. The inner surface of the tubular receptor device may define a receptor device lumen.

[0054] In embodiments where the aerosol generating apparatus includes a device cavity for receiving an aerosol forming matrix, the receptor device may at least partially define the device cavity. The receptor device cavity may be aligned with the device cavity.

[0055] In some embodiments, the sensor device includes at least one internal heating element and at least one external heating element.

[0056] A receptor device includes at least one receptor. A receptor device may include a single receptor. A receptor device may consist of a single receptor. A first portion of a receptor device may include a first receptor. A second portion of a receptor device may include a second receptor.

[0057] As used herein, the term "sensor" refers to an element comprising materials capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat. When a sensor is placed in a changing magnetic field, it is heated. Heating of the sensor may result in at least one of hysteresis losses and eddy currents induced within the sensor, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the sensor material.

[0058] The receptor can comprise any suitable material. The receptor can be formed from any material capable of being inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming matrix. Preferred receptors can be heated to temperatures exceeding about 250 degrees Celsius. Preferred receptors can be formed from conductive materials. As used herein, “conductive” means having a conductivity of less than or equal to 1 × 10⁻⁶ at 20 degrees Celsius. -4 Materials with resistivity in ohm-meters (Ω·m). Preferred sensors may be formed of thermally conductive materials. As used herein, the term "thermally conductive material" describes a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 10 watts per meter Kelvin (W / (mK)) at 23°C and 50% relative humidity, as measured using the modified transient planar heat source (MTPS) method.

[0059] Suitable materials for the receptor include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and composites of metallic materials. Some preferred receptors include metals or carbon. Some preferred receptors include ferromagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron, ferromagnetic alloys (such as ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel), ferromagnetic particles, and ferrites. Some preferred receptors are made of ferromagnetic materials. Suitable receptors may include aluminum. Suitable receptors may be made of aluminum. Receptors may include at least about 5%, at least about 20%, at least about 50%, or at least about 90% ferromagnetic or paramagnetic materials.

[0060] Preferably, the receptor is formed of a substantially airtight material. In other words, preferably, the receptor is formed of an airtight material.

[0061] The receptors in a receptor device can have any suitable form. For example, a receptor can be elongated. A receptor can have any suitable cross-section. For example, a receptor can have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other polygonal cross-section.

[0062] The first part of the receptor device may be a tubular receptor. The second part of the receptor device may be a tubular receptor. The tubular receptor includes an annular body defining an internal lumen. The receptor lumen may be configured to receive an aerosol-forming matrix. The receptor lumen may be an open lumen. The receptor lumen may be open at one end. The receptor lumen may be open at both ends.

[0063] In some embodiments having multiple receptors, each receptor may be substantially identical. For example, a second receptor may be substantially identical to a first receptor. Each receptor may be formed of the same material. Each receptor may have substantially the same shape and size. Making each receptor substantially identical to the others allows each receptor to be heated to substantially the same temperature and at substantially the same rate when exposed to a given changing magnetic field.

[0064] In some embodiments, the second receptor differs from the first receptor in at least one characteristic. The second receptor may be formed of a different material than the first receptor. The second receptor may have a different shape and size than the first receptor. The second receptor may be longer than the first receptor. Making each receptor different from the others allows each receptor to be adapted to provide optimal heat for different aerosol-forming matrices.

[0065] In one example, a first aerosol forming matrix may need to be heated to a first temperature to generate a first aerosol with desired properties, and a second aerosol forming matrix may need to be heated to a second temperature different from the first temperature to generate a second aerosol with desired properties. In this example, a first sensor may be formed from a first material suitable for heating the first aerosol forming matrix to the first temperature, and a second sensor may be formed from a second material different from the first material suitable for heating the second aerosol forming matrix to the second temperature.

[0066] In another example, the aerosol-generating article may include a first aerosol-forming matrix having a first length and a second aerosol-forming matrix having a second length different from the first length, such that heating the second aerosol-forming matrix generates a different amount of aerosol compared to heating the first aerosol-forming matrix. In this embodiment, the first receptor may have a length substantially equal to the first length, and the second receptor may have a length substantially equal to the second length.

[0067] In some preferred embodiments, the first receptor is an elongated tubular receptor, and the second receptor is an elongated tubular receptor. In these preferred embodiments, the first and second receptors can be substantially aligned. In other words, the first and second receptors can be coaxially aligned.

[0068] A receptor device may include any suitable number of receptors. A receptor device may include multiple receptors. A receptor device may include at least two receptors. For example, a receptor device may include three, four, five, or six receptors. In the case where a receptor device includes more than two receptors, an intermediate element may be disposed between each adjacent pair of receptors.

[0069] In some preferred embodiments, the receptor may include a receptor layer disposed on a support. In embodiments having a first receptor and a second receptor, each of the first and second receptors may be formed by a support and a receptor layer. Arranging the receptor in a changing magnetic field induces eddy currents near the receptor surface; this effect is known as the skin effect. Therefore, the receptor can be formed from a relatively thin layer of receptor material while ensuring that the receptor is effectively heated in the presence of a changing magnetic field. Manufacturing the receptor from a support and a relatively thin receptor layer facilitates the simple, inexpensive, and robust production of aerosol-generating articles.

[0070] The support can be formed of a material that is not easily inductively heated. Advantageously, this can reduce heating of the surface of the receptor that does not come into contact with the aerosol-forming matrix, wherein the surface of the support forms the surface of the receptor that does not come into contact with the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0071] The support may include electrically insulating material. As used herein, "electrically insulating" means having a strength of at least 1 × 10⁻⁶ at 20 degrees Celsius. 4 Materials with resistivity of ohm-meter (Ω·m).

[0072] The support may include insulating material. As used herein, the term "insulating material" is used to describe a material having an overall thermal conductivity of less than or equal to about 40 watts per meter Kelvin (mW / (mK)) at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity, as measured using a modified transient planar source (MTPS) method.

[0073] A support structure formed of insulating material can provide an insulating barrier between the sensor layer of an induction heating device and other components (e.g., the inductor coil defining the sensor device). Advantageously, this can reduce heat transfer between the sensor and other components of the induction heating system.

[0074] The support can be a tubular support, and the receptor layer can be disposed on the inner surface of the tubular support. Disposing the receptor layer on the inner surface of the support allows for positioning of the receptor layer adjacent to the aerosol-forming matrix within the cavity of the receptor device, thereby improving heat transfer between the receptor layer and the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0075] In some preferred embodiments having a first receptor and a second receptor, the first receptor includes a tubular support formed of an insulating material and a receptor layer on the inner surface of the tubular support. In some preferred embodiments, the second receptor includes a tubular support formed of an insulating material and a receptor layer on the inner surface of the tubular support.

[0076] The receptor may have a protective outer layer, such as a protective ceramic layer or a protective glass layer. The protective outer layer improves the receptor's durability and facilitates cleaning. The protective outer layer may substantially surround the receptor. The receptor may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or inert metal.

[0077] The receptor device may include a gap between a first portion of the receptor device and a second portion of the receptor device.

[0078] The gap can be any suitable size to insulate the first part of the receptor device from the second part of the receptor device.

[0079] The sensor device may include an intermediate element disposed between a first portion and a second portion of the sensor device. The intermediate element may be disposed within the gap between the first and second portions of the sensor device. The intermediate element may extend between the first and second portions of the sensor device. The intermediate element may contact an end of the first portion of the sensor device. The intermediate element may contact an end of the second portion of the sensor device. The intermediate element may be secured to an end of the first portion of the sensor device. The intermediate element may be secured to an end of the second portion of the sensor device. The intermediate element may connect the second portion of the sensor device to the first portion of the sensor device. In the case where the intermediate element connects the second portion of the sensor device to the first portion of the sensor device, the intermediate element may provide structural support to the sensor device. Advantageously, the intermediate element may enable the sensor device to be provided as a single, integral element that can be directly removed and replaced from the induction heating device.

[0080] The intermediate element can have any suitable form. The intermediate element can have any suitable cross-section. For example, the intermediate element can have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other polygonal cross-section. The intermediate element can be tubular. A tubular intermediate element includes an annular body defining an inner cavity. The intermediate element can be configured to allow gas to permeate from the outside of the intermediate element into the inner cavity. The intermediate element cavity can be configured to receive part of the aerosol-generated article. The intermediate element cavity can be an open cavity. The intermediate element cavity can be open at one end. The intermediate element cavity can be open at both ends.

[0081] In some preferred embodiments, the first and second portions of the receptor device are tubular receptors, and the intermediate element is a tubular intermediate element. In these embodiments, the tubular first receptor, tubular second receptor, and tubular intermediate element can be substantially aligned. The tubular first receptor, tubular intermediate element, and tubular second receptor can be arranged end-to-end in the form of tubular rods. The lumens of the tubular first receptor, tubular intermediate element, and tubular second receptor can be substantially aligned. The lumens of the tubular first receptor, tubular intermediate element, and tubular second receptor can define a receptor device cavity.

[0082] Intermediate components can be formed from any suitable material.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the intermediate element is formed of a material different from that of the first part and the second part of the sensor device.

[0084] The intermediate element may include an insulating material for insulating the first part of the sensor device from the second part of the sensor device. The intermediate element may include a material having an overall thermal conductivity of less than or equal to about 100 milliwatts per meter Kelvin (mW / (mK)) at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity, as measured using a modified transient planar source (MTPS) method. Placing the intermediate element, formed of insulating material, in the gap between the first and second parts of the sensor device further reduces heat transfer between them. Advantageously, this improves the ability of the sensor device to selectively heat discrete portions of the aerosol-forming matrix. This also makes it possible to reduce the size of the gap between the first and second parts of the sensor device, and consequently, the size of the sensor device.

[0085] The intermediate element may include an electrically insulating material for electrically insulating the first portion of the sensor device from the second portion of the sensor device. The sensor may include a material having a density of at least 1x10 at 20 degrees Celsius. 4 Materials with a resistivity of ohmmeter (Ωm).

[0086] The intermediate element may include at least one of the following: a thermally insulating material for insulating a first portion of the sensor device from a second portion of the sensor device; and an electrically insulating material for electrically insulating the first portion of the sensor device from the second portion of the sensor device. In some preferred embodiments, the intermediate element includes a thermally insulating material for insulating a first portion of the sensor device from a second portion of the sensor device, and an electrically insulating material for electrically insulating the first portion of the sensor device from the second portion of the sensor device.

[0087] Particularly suitable materials for intermediate components may include polymeric materials (such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), liquid crystal polymers, such as...) Certain cement, glass, and ceramic materials (such as zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), silicon nitride (Si3N4), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3)).

[0088] The intermediate element can be permeable. In other words, the intermediate element is configured to allow gas to permeate through it. Typically, the intermediate element is configured to allow gas to permeate from one side of the intermediate element to the other. The intermediate element may include an outer side and an inner side opposite to the outer side. The intermediate element can be configured to allow gas to permeate from the outer side to the inner side.

[0089] In some embodiments, the intermediate element includes air passages configured to allow air to pass through it. In these embodiments, the intermediate element may not need to be formed of a breathable material. Therefore, in some embodiments, the intermediate element is formed of an impermeable material and includes air passages configured to allow air to pass through it. The intermediate element may include multiple air passages. The intermediate element may include any suitable number of air passages, for example, two, three, four, five, or six air passages. In cases where the intermediate element includes multiple air passages, the air passages may be regularly spaced across the intermediate element.

[0090] When the intermediate element is a tubular intermediate element defining an inner cavity, the intermediate element may include an air passage configured to allow air to flow from the outer surface of the intermediate element into the inner cavity. The intermediate element may include an air passage extending from the outer surface to the inner surface. When the tubular intermediate element includes multiple air passages, the air passages may be regularly spaced around the circumference of the tubular intermediate element.

[0091] The first sensor coil is configured such that a changing current supplied to the first sensor coil generates a changing magnetic field. The first sensor coil is arranged relative to the sensor device such that the changing current supplied to the first sensor coil generates a changing magnetic field, which heats a first portion of the sensor device.

[0092] The second sensor coil is configured such that a changing current supplied to the second sensor coil generates a changing magnetic field. The second sensor coil is arranged relative to the sensor device such that the changing current supplied to the second sensor coil generates a changing magnetic field, which heats a second portion of the sensor device.

[0093] The sensor coil can have any suitable form. For example, the sensor coil can be a flat sensor coil. A flat sensor coil can be wound in a helical manner substantially in a plane. Preferably, the sensor coil is a tubular sensor coil defining an inner cavity. Typically, the tubular sensor coil is wound helically about an axis. The sensor coil can be elongated. Particularly preferred is that the sensor coil can be an elongated tubular sensor coil. The sensor coil can have any suitable cross-section. For example, the sensor coil can have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other polygonal cross-section.

[0094] The inductor coil can be formed from any suitable material. The inductor coil is formed from a conductive material. Preferably, the inductor coil is formed from a metal or a metal alloy.

[0095] When the sensor coil is a tubular sensor coil, preferably, a portion of the sensor device is arranged within the cavity of the sensor coil. Particularly preferably, the first sensor coil is a tubular sensor coil, and at least a portion of the first part of the sensor device is arranged within the cavity of the first sensor coil. The length of the tubular first sensor coil can be substantially similar to the length of the first part of the sensor device. Particularly preferably, the second sensor coil is a tubular sensor coil, and at least a portion of the second part of the sensor device is arranged within the cavity of the second sensor coil. The length of the tubular second sensor coil can be substantially similar to the length of the second part of the sensor device.

[0096] In some embodiments, the second sensor coil is substantially identical to the first sensor coil. In other words, the first and second sensor coils have the same shape, size, and number of turns. Particularly preferably, in embodiments where the second part of the sensor device is substantially identical to the first part of the sensor device, the second sensor coil is substantially identical to the first sensor coil.

[0097] In some embodiments, the second sensor coil differs from the first sensor coil. For example, the second sensor coil may have a different length, number of turns, or cross-section than the first sensor coil. Particularly preferred embodiments, where the second portion of the sensor device differs from the first portion of the sensor device, exhibit a different second sensor coil.

[0098] The first and second sensor coils can be arranged in any suitable configuration. Particularly preferred is that the first and second sensor coils are aligned coaxially along an axis. In the case where the first and second sensor coils are elongated tubular sensor coils, they can be aligned coaxially along a longitudinal axis, such that the inner cavities of the coils are aligned along the longitudinal axis.

[0099] In some embodiments, the first sensor coil and the second sensor coil are wound in the same direction. In some embodiments, the second sensor coil is wound in a different direction than the first sensor coil.

[0100] Induction heating devices may include any suitable number of inductor coils. A sensor device includes multiple inductor coils. An induction heating device includes at least two inductor coils. Preferably, the number of inductor coils in the induction heating device is the same as the number of sensors in the sensor device. The number of inductor coils in the induction heating device may differ from the number of sensors in the sensor device. When the number of inductor coils is the same as the number of sensors, preferably, each inductor coil is arranged around a sensor. Particularly preferably, each inductor coil substantially extends the length of the sensor around which the inductor coil is arranged.

[0101] The sensor device may include a flux concentrator. The flux concentrator may be disposed around the inductor coil of the induction heating device. The flux concentrator is configured to twist the changing magnetic field generated by the inductor coil toward the sensor device.

[0102] Advantageously, by twisting the magnetic field toward the sensor device, the flux concentrator can concentrate the magnetic field at the sensor device. This can improve the efficiency of the induction heating device compared to embodiments that do not provide a flux concentrator. As used herein, the phrase "concentrate magnetic field" means to twist the magnetic field such that the magnetic energy density of the magnetic field increases at the location where the magnetic field is "concentrated".

[0103] As used herein, the term "flux concentrator" refers to a component with high relative permeability used to concentrate and direct a magnetic field or magnetic field lines generated by an inductor coil. As used herein, the term "relative permeability" refers to the ratio of the permeability of a material or medium such as a flux concentrator to the permeability "μ0" of free space, where μ0 is 4π × 10⁻⁶. -7 Newtons per square ampere (NA) -2 ).

[0104] As used herein, the term "high relative permeability" refers to a relative permeability of at least 5 at 25 degrees Celsius, such as at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 80, or at least 100. These example values ​​preferably refer to the relative permeability values ​​for frequencies between 6 and 8 MHz and a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.

[0105] Flux concentrators can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, flux concentrators comprise ferromagnetic materials, such as ferrite materials, ferrite powder retained in a binder, or any other suitable material containing ferrite materials, such as ferromagnetic iron, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel.

[0106] In some embodiments, the induction heating device includes a flux concentrator disposed around a first inductor coil and a second inductor coil. In these embodiments, the flux concentrator is configured to distort the changing magnetic field generated by the first inductor coil toward a first portion of the inductor device and to distort the changing magnetic field generated by the second inductor coil toward a second portion of the inductor device.

[0107] In some of these embodiments, a portion of the flux concentrator extends into the gap or intermediate element between the first and second portions of the sensor device. Extending a portion of the flux concentrator into the intermediate element between the first and second portions of the sensor device further distorts the magnetic fields generated by the first and second sensor coils. This further distortion allows the magnetic field generated by the first sensor coil to be further concentrated towards the first portion of the sensor device, and the magnetic field generated by the second sensor coil to be further concentrated towards the second portion of the sensor device. This can further improve the efficiency of the induction heating device.

[0108] Since both the first and second LC circuits have the same resonant frequency, strong magnetic coupling can exist between them. Therefore, it may be particularly advantageous to provide a first flux concentrator arranged around the first inductor coil and a second flux concentrator arranged around the second inductor coil to reduce the magnetic coupling between the first and second LC circuits. If a spacer or intermediate element is provided between the first and second portions of the sensor device, it may be further advantageous to extend one or more of the first and second flux concentrators into the spacer or intermediate element. This can further reduce the magnetic coupling between the first and second LC circuits.

[0109] In some embodiments, the induction heating device includes a plurality of flux concentrators. In some preferred embodiments, a separate flux concentrator is arranged around each inductor coil. Providing a dedicated flux concentrator for each inductor coil allows the flux concentrators to be optimally configured to distort the magnetic field generated by the inductor coil. This arrangement also allows the induction heating device to be formed from modular induction heating units. Each induction heating unit may include an inductor coil and a flux concentrator. Providing modular induction heating units facilitates standardized manufacturing of the induction heating device and allows individual units to be removed and replaced.

[0110] In some preferred embodiments, the induction heating device includes: a first flux concentrator disposed around a first sensor coil, the first flux concentrator being configured to twist a changing magnetic field generated by the first sensor coil toward a first portion of the sensor device; and a second flux concentrator disposed around a second sensor coil, the second flux concentrator being configured to twist a changing magnetic field generated by the second sensor coil toward a second portion of the sensor device.

[0111] In these preferred embodiments, a portion of the first flux concentrator may extend into the intermediate element between the first and second portions of the sensor device. In these preferred embodiments, a portion of the second flux concentrator may extend into the intermediate element between the first and second portions of the sensor device. Extending a portion of the flux concentrator into the intermediate element between the sensors allows the flux concentrator to further distort the magnetic field generated by the sensor coil toward the sensor.

[0112] The induction heating device may also include an induction heating device housing. The housing holds the sensor device, sensor coil, and flux concentrator together. This helps to fix the relative arrangement of the components of the induction heating device and improves the connection between the components. Preferably, the induction heating device housing is formed of an electrically insulating material.

[0113] In induction heating devices comprising individual induction heating units, each including an inductor coil and a flux concentrator, each induction heating unit may include an induction heating unit housing. The induction heating unit housing holds the components of the induction heating unit together and improves the connection between the components. Preferably, the induction heating unit housing is formed of an electrically insulating material.

[0114] The aerosol generating device may include a power source. The power source can be of any suitable type. The power source can be a DC power source. In some preferred embodiments, the power source is a battery, such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The power source can also be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging. The power source may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more uses of the device. For example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow continuous aerosol generation for approximately six minutes, corresponding to the typical time it takes to smoke a regular cigarette, or for a multiple of six minutes. In another instance, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow for a predetermined number of uses of the device or intermittent use. In one embodiment, the power source is a DC power source having a DC supply voltage in the range of approximately 2.5 volts to approximately 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of approximately 1 ampere to approximately 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power supply between approximately 2.5 watts and approximately 45 watts).

[0115] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a controller connected to an induction heating device and a power source. Specifically, the aerosol generating apparatus may include controllers connected to the first and second induction coils and the power source. The controller is configured to control the power supply from the power source to the induction heating device. The controller may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated chip (ASIC), or other circuitry capable of providing control. The controller may include other electronic components. The controller may be configured to regulate the current supply to the induction heating device. The current may be continuously supplied to the induction heating device after the aerosol generating apparatus is activated, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as based on inlet-to-outlet suction.

[0116] The aerosol generating apparatus may advantageously include a DC / AC inverter, which may include a Class C, Class D, or Class E power amplifier. The DC / AC converter may be arranged between the power supply and the induction heating device.

[0117] The aerosol generating device may further include a DC / DC converter between the power supply and the DC / AC converter. The controller can be configured to control the first AC current by controlling the amplitude of the first AC current using the DC / DC converter. The controller can also be configured to control the second AC current by controlling the amplitude of the second AC current using the DC / DC converter.

[0118] In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to drive a first AC current with multiple pulses. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the first AC current via pulse width modulation.

[0119] In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to drive the second AC current with multiple pulses. In these embodiments, the controller can be configured to control the second AC current via pulse width modulation.

[0120] The aerosol generating device may include a first switch between the power source and the first sensor coil, and a second switch between the power source and the second sensor coil. A controller may be configured to open and close the first switch at a first switching rate to drive a first AC current in the first sensor coil while the second switch remains closed. The controller may also be configured to open and close the second switch at a second switching rate to drive a second AC current in the second sensor coil while the first switch remains closed.

[0121] The controller can be configured to supply AC current of any suitable frequency to the induction heating device. The controller can be configured to supply AC current with a frequency between about 5 kHz and about 30 MHz to the induction heating device. In some preferred embodiments, the controller is configured to supply AC current with a frequency between about 5 kHz and about 500 kHz to the induction heating device. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to supply high-frequency AC current to the induction heating device. As used herein, the term "high-frequency AC current" refers to AC current having a frequency between about 500 kHz and about 30 MHz. High-frequency AC current can have a frequency between about 1 MHz and about 30 MHz (e.g., between about 1 MHz and about 10 MHz, or for example, between about 5 MHz and about 8 MHz).

[0122] The aerosol generating device may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of those materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and not easily broken.

[0123] The device housing may define a device cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming matrix. The device cavity is configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generated article. The device cavity may have any suitable shape and size. The device cavity may be substantially cylindrical. The device cavity may have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0124] The receptor device can be disposed within a device cavity. The receptor device can be disposed around the device cavity. In the case that the receptor device is a tubular receptor device, the receptor device can define the device cavity. The inner surface of the receptor device can form the inner surface of the device cavity.

[0125] The first and second sensor coils can be disposed within the device cavity. The first and second sensor coils can be arranged around the device cavity. The first and second sensor coils can define the device cavity. The inner surfaces of the first and second sensor coils can form the inner surface of the device cavity.

[0126] The device may have a proximal end and a distal end opposite to the proximal end. Preferably, the device cavity is arranged at the proximal end of the device.

[0127] The device cavity may have a proximal end and a distal end opposite to the proximal end. The proximal end of the device cavity may be substantially open for receiving aerosol-generated articles.

[0128] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a cover that is movable above the proximal end of the apparatus cavity to prevent the aerosol generating article from being inserted into the apparatus cavity.

[0129] In some preferred embodiments, a first sensor coil is arranged toward the proximal end of the device cavity, and a second sensor coil is arranged toward the distal end of the device cavity. In these preferred embodiments, a controller may be configured to initiate heating of the aerosol forming matrix by driving a first changing current in the first sensor coil and subsequently driving a second changing current in the second sensor coil. This operation heats the proximal portion of the device cavity before heating the distal portion.

[0130] The device housing may include an air inlet. The air inlet may be configured to allow ambient air to enter the device housing. The device housing may include any number of air inlets. The device housing may include multiple air inlets.

[0131] The device housing may include an air outlet. The air outlet may be configured to allow air to enter the device cavity from within the device housing. The device housing may include any suitable number of air outlets. The device housing may include multiple air outlets.

[0132] When the intermediate element of the sensor device is permeable, the aerosol generating device can define an airflow path extending from the air inlet to the intermediate element of the sensor device. This airflow path allows air to be drawn in from the air inlet through the aerosol generating device and enter the device cavity through the intermediate element.

[0133] In some embodiments, the device cavity may include a proximal end and a distal end opposite to the proximal end. In these embodiments, the device cavity may be open at the proximal end for receiving an aerosol-generating article. In these embodiments, the device cavity may be substantially closed at the distal end. The device housing may include an air outlet at the distal end of the device cavity. The aerosol-generating device may also include an annular seal toward the proximal end of the device cavity. The annular seal may extend into the device cavity. The annular seal may provide a substantially airtight seal between the device housing and the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article received in the device cavity. This can reduce the volume of air drawn into the device cavity during use by any gaps existing between the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article and the inner surface of the device cavity. This can increase the volume of air drawn into the aerosol-generating article through a permeable intermediate element.

[0134] In some embodiments, the device housing includes a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may include at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The mouthpiece may include more than one air inlet. One or more air inlets may reduce the temperature of the aerosol before it is delivered to the user, and may reduce the concentration of the aerosol before it is delivered to the user.

[0135] In some embodiments, a mouthpiece is provided as part of an aerosol generating article. As used herein, the term "mouthpiece" refers to part of an aerosol generating system placed in a user's mouth to inhale aerosols generated by the aerosol generating system directly from the aerosol generating article received by the aerosol generating device.

[0136] In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to monitor the current supplied to the induction heating device. The controller may be configured to determine the temperature of the sensor device based on the monitored current. The controller may be configured to monitor a first changing current and determine the temperature of a first portion of the sensor device based on the monitored first changing current. The controller may be configured to monitor a second changing current and determine the temperature of a second portion of the sensor device based on the monitored second changing current.

[0137] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be arranged to sense the temperature of a sensor device. A controller may be configured to control a first changing current based on the temperature of the sensor device sensed by the temperature sensor. The controller may also be configured to control a second changing current based on the temperature of the sensor device sensed by the temperature sensor.

[0138] The temperature sensor can be any suitable type of temperature sensor. For example, the temperature sensor can be a thermocouple, a negative temperature coefficient resistive temperature sensor, or a positive temperature coefficient resistive temperature sensor.

[0139] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a first temperature sensor arranged to sense the temperature of a first portion of the sensor device. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control a first variable current based on the temperature of the first portion of the sensor device sensed by the first temperature sensor.

[0140] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a second temperature sensor arranged to sense the temperature of a second portion of the sensor device. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control a second variable current based on the temperature of the second portion of the sensor device sensed by the second temperature sensor.

[0141] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a user interface for activating the apparatus, such as a button for activating heating of the aerosol-generated article.

[0142] Aerosol generation apparatus may include a display to indicate the status of the apparatus or the aerosol forming matrix.

[0143] An aerosol generating apparatus may include a detector for detecting the presence of an aerosol-forming matrix. Where the aerosol generating apparatus includes a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming matrix, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a detector for detecting the presence of the aerosol-forming matrix within the cavity. Where the aerosol generating apparatus is configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-generated article, the aerosol generating apparatus may include an aerosol-generated article detector configured to detect the presence of an aerosol-generated article within the cavity.

[0144] When the aerosol forming matrix detector detects the presence of the aerosol forming matrix, the controller can be configured to initiate heating by driving a first changing current in the first sensor coil.

[0145] When the aerosol generation product detector detects the presence of aerosol generation product in the device cavity, the controller can be configured to initiate heating by driving a first changing current in the first sensor coil.

[0146] Aerosol forming matrix detectors and aerosol generating article detectors can include any suitable type of detector. For example, the detector can be an optical detector, an acoustic detector, a capacitive detector, or an inductive detector.

[0147] Aerosol generating devices may include a suction detector configured to detect when a user inhales on the aerosol generating system. As used herein, the term "inhale" refers to a user inhaling on the aerosol generating device to receive aerosols.

[0148] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length between approximately 30 mm and approximately 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter between approximately 5 mm and approximately 30 mm.

[0149] An aerosol generating device can be part of an aerosol generating system.

[0150] The aerosol generation system may also include an aerosol generation article. The aerosol generation article may include an aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol generation article may include a first aerosol forming matrix and a second aerosol forming matrix. When the aerosol generation article is received in the device cavity, at least a portion of the first aerosol forming matrix may be received in a first portion of the device cavity, and at least a portion of the second aerosol forming matrix may be received in a second portion of the device cavity.

[0151] The sensor device, which forms part of the induction heating device of the aerosol generation apparatus, is configured to heat the aerosol generation matrix.

[0152] The aerosol-forming matrix may include nicotine. Nicotine-containing aerosol-forming matrix may be a nicotine salt matrix.

[0153] The aerosol forming matrix can be liquid. The aerosol forming matrix can include both solid and liquid components. Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix is ​​solid.

[0154] Aerosol forming matrices can include plant-based materials. Aerosol forming matrices can include tobacco. Aerosol forming matrices can include tobacco-containing materials, including volatile tobacco flavoring compounds released from the aerosol forming matrix upon heating. Aerosol forming matrices can include non-tobacco materials. Aerosol forming matrices can include homogenized plant matrix material. Aerosol forming matrices can include homogenized tobacco material. Homogenized tobacco material can be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol forming matrix comprises an aggregated curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "curled sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of generally parallel ridges or wrinkles.

[0155] The aerosol forming matrix may include at least one aerosol forming agent. An aerosol forming agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the system's operating temperature. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono, di, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and fatty acid esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. Preferred aerosol forming agents may include polyols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol and 1,3-butanediol. Preferably, the aerosol forming agent is glycerol. If present, the aerosol forming agent content in the homogenized tobacco material may be equal to or greater than 5% by weight on a dry weight basis, for example, between about 5% and about 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol forming matrix may include other additives and ingredients, such as flavorings.

[0156] The aerosol forming matrix may be included in the aerosol generating article. An aerosol generating apparatus, including an induction heating device, may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article may have any suitable form. The aerosol generating article may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol generating article may be substantially elongated. The aerosol generating article may have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length.

[0157] An aerosol forming matrix can be provided as an aerosol generation segment comprising an aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol generation segment may include multiple aerosol forming matrices. The aerosol generation segment may include a first aerosol forming matrix and a second aerosol forming matrix. In some embodiments, the second aerosol forming matrix is ​​substantially the same as the first aerosol forming matrix. In some embodiments, the second aerosol forming matrix is ​​different from the first aerosol forming matrix.

[0158] When the aerosol generation segment includes multiple aerosol forming matrices, the number of aerosol forming matrices can be the same as the number of sensors in the sensor device. Similarly, the number of aerosol forming matrices can be the same as the number of inductor coils in the induction heating device.

[0159] The aerosol-generating segment can be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-generating segment can be substantially elongated. The aerosol-generating segment can also have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length.

[0160] In cases where an aerosol generating segment comprises multiple aerosol forming matrices, the aerosol forming matrices may be arranged end-to-end along the axis of the aerosol generating segment. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating segment may include a spacing between adjacent aerosol forming matrices.

[0161] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may have an overall length between about 30 mm and about 100 mm. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an overall length of about 45 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter between about 5 mm and about 12 mm. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of about 7.2 mm.

[0162] The aerosol generating segment can have a length between about 7 mm and about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating segment can have a length of about 10 mm or 12 mm.

[0163] The aerosol generating segment preferably has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article. The outer diameter of the aerosol generating segment can be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 12 mm. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating segment can have an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 mm.

[0164] Aerosol-generating articles may include filter tip segments. The filter tip segment may be located at the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter tip segment may be a cellulose acetate filter tip segment. In some embodiments, the filter tip segment may have a length of about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the filter tip segment may have a length of about 7 mm.

[0165] A first portion of the receptor device can be arranged to heat a first portion of the aerosol-forming matrix. The first portion of the receptor device can be arranged to substantially define a first portion of the aerosol-forming matrix. A second portion of the receptor device can be arranged to heat a second portion of the aerosol-forming matrix. The second portion of the receptor device can be arranged to substantially define a second portion of the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0166] Aerosol-generating articles may include an outer packaging. The outer packaging may be formed of paper. The outer packaging may be permeable at the aerosol-generating segments. Specifically, in embodiments comprising multiple aerosol-forming matrices, the outer packaging may include perforations or other air inlets at the interfaces between adjacent aerosol-forming matrices. Where a gap is provided between adjacent aerosol-forming matrices, the outer packaging may include perforations or other air inlets at the gap. This allows the aerosol-forming matrices to be directly supplied with air that has not been drawn through another aerosol-forming matrix. This can increase the amount of air received by each aerosol-forming matrix. This can improve the properties of the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming matrices.

[0167] Aerosol generating articles may also include a gap between the aerosol forming matrix and the filter tip section. The gap may be about 18 mm, but may range from about 5 mm to about 25 mm.

[0168] It should also be recognized that specific combinations of the above features can be implemented, provided, and used independently. Attached Figure Description

[0169] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0170] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a sensor device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, arranged between a pair of sensor coils;

[0171] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a sensor device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, arranged between a pair of sensor coils;

[0172] Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a receptor device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0173] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A perspective view of the receptor device;

[0174] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the aerosol generation system including an aerosol generation article and an aerosol generation apparatus having an induction heating device;

[0175] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the near end of the aerosol generating device;

[0176] Figure 7 It shows Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system, wherein an aerosol generation article is received in an aerosol generation apparatus;

[0177] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a sensor device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, arranged between a pair of sensor coils;

[0178] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the aerosol generation system including an aerosol generation article and an aerosol generation apparatus having an induction heating device;

[0179] Figure 10 It shows Figure 8 A graph showing the temperature of the sensor device over time;

[0180] Figure 11 An illustrative circuit diagram of the induction heating device is shown;

[0181] Figure 12 An illustrative circuit for controlling an induction heating device is shown; and

[0182] Figure 13 A diagram of a pulse width modulation signal used to drive an induction heating device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0183] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a receptor device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The receptor device 10 is an elongated tubular element having a circular cross-section. The receptor device 10 includes a first receptor 12, a second receptor 14, and a spacing 15 between the first receptor 12 and the second receptor 14. The first receptor 12 and the second receptor 14 are each an elongated tubular element having a circular cross-section. The first receptor 12 and the second receptor 14 are coaxially aligned end-to-end along a longitudinal axis AA.

[0184] The receptor device 10 includes a cylindrical cavity 20 open at both ends, defined by the inner surfaces of a first receptor 12 and a second receptor 14. The cavity 20 is configured to receive a portion of a cylindrical aerosol-generating article (not shown) comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, such that the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article can be heated by the first and second receptors, thereby heating the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0185] The cavity 20 includes three parts: a first portion 22 at a first end defined by the inner surface of the tubular first receptor 12, a second portion 24 at a second end opposite to the first end defined by the inner surface of the tubular second receptor 14, and an intermediate portion 26 defined by the gap 15 between the first receptor 12 and the second receptor 14. The first receptor 12 is arranged to heat a first portion of the aerosol-generating article received in the first portion 22 of the cavity 20, and the second receptor 14 is arranged to heat a second portion of the aerosol-generating article received in the second portion 24 of the cavity 20.

[0186] A first sensor coil 32 is disposed around a first sensor 12 and substantially extends the length of the first sensor 12. Thus, the first sensor 12 is substantially defined along its length by the first sensor coil 32. When a changing current, preferably an AC current, is supplied to the first sensor coil 32, the first sensor coil 32 generates a changing magnetic field concentrated in the first portion 22 of the cavity 20. This changing magnetic field generated by the first sensor coil 32 induces eddy currents in the first sensor 12, causing the first sensor 12 to be heated.

[0187] The second sensor coil 34 is disposed around the second sensor 14 and substantially extends the length of the second sensor 14. Thus, the second sensor 14 is substantially defined along its length by the second sensor coil 34. When a changing current, preferably AC current, is supplied to the second sensor coil 34, the second sensor coil 34 generates a changing magnetic field concentrated in the second portion 24 of the cavity 20. This changing magnetic field generated by the second sensor coil 34 induces eddy currents in the second sensor 14, causing the second sensor 14 to be heated.

[0188] The gap 15 between the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14 provides a space between them that is not inductively heated when exposed to a changing magnetic field generated by the first sensor coil 32 or the second sensor coil 34. Furthermore, compared to a sensor device where the first and second sensors are arranged adjacent to each other in direct thermal contact, the gap 15 insulates the second sensor 14 from the first sensor 12, thereby reducing the rate of heat transfer between them. As a result, providing the gap 15 between the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14 allows the first sensor 12 to selectively heat the first portion 22 of the cavity 20 while minimizing heating of the second portion 24 of the cavity 20, and also allows the second sensor 14 to selectively heat the second portion 24 of the cavity 20 while minimizing heating of the first portion 22 of the cavity 20.

[0189] The first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14 can be heated simultaneously by simultaneously supplying a varying current, preferably AC current, to the first sensor coil 32 and the second sensor coil 34. Alternatively, the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14 can be heated independently or alternately by supplying a varying current, preferably AC current, to the first sensor coil 32 without supplying current to the second sensor coil 34, and subsequently supplying a varying current, preferably AC current, to the second sensor coil 34 without supplying current to the first sensor coil 32. It is also contemplated that the varying current, preferably AC current, can be supplied to the first sensor coil 32 and the second sensor coil 34 sequentially.

[0190] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a receptor device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 The sensor device shown is with Figure 1 The sensor devices shown are substantially the same, and the same reference numerals are used to describe the same features.

[0191] Figure 2 The receptor device 10 is an elongated tubular element with a circular cross-section. The receptor device 10 includes a first receptor 12 and a second receptor 14. Figure 1 The sensor device 10 and Figure 2 The difference between the sensor devices 10 is: Figure 2 The receptor device 10 includes an intermediate element 16 disposed between a first receptor 12 and a second receptor 14. Figure 2 In this embodiment, a gap still exists between the first receptor 12 and the second receptor 14; however, this gap is filled by an intermediate element 16. In this embodiment, the intermediate element 16 is fixed to the end of the first receptor 12 and also to the end of the second receptor 14. By fixing the intermediate element 16 to both the end of the first receptor 12 and the end of the second receptor 14, the first receptor 12 is indirectly connected to the second receptor 14. Advantageously, indirectly fixing the first receptor 12 to the second receptor 14 allows the receptor device to form a single, integral structure.

[0192] The intermediate element 16 comprises a thermally insulating material. This thermally insulating material is also electrically insulating. In this embodiment, the intermediate element 16 is formed of a polymeric material (such as PEEK). Thus, the intermediate element 16 between the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14 provides a space between the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14 that is not inductively heated when exposed to a changing magnetic field generated by the first sensor coil 32 or the second sensor coil 34. Furthermore, compared to sensor devices where the first and second sensors are arranged adjacent to each other in direct thermal contact, the intermediate element 16 thermally insulates the second sensor 14 from the first sensor 12, thereby reducing the rate of heat transfer between the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14. Figure 1 Compared to the spacing 15 of the sensor device 10, the intermediate element 16 can further reduce the heat transfer rate between the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14. As a result, providing the intermediate element 16 between the first sensor 12 and the second sensor 14 enables the first sensor 12 to selectively heat the first portion 22 of the cavity 20, minimizing heating of the second portion 24 of the cavity 20, and enables the second sensor 14 to selectively heat the second portion 24 of the cavity 20, minimizing heating of the first portion 22 of the cavity 20.

[0193] Figures 3 to 7 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generation apparatus 100 and an aerosol generation article 200. The aerosol generation apparatus 100 includes an induction heating device 110 according to the present disclosure. The induction heating device 110 includes a sensor device 120 according to the present disclosure.

[0194] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a receptor device 120 is shown. The receptor device 120 includes: a first receptor 122, a second receptor 124, a third receptor 126, a first intermediate element 128, and a second intermediate element 130. The first intermediate element 128 is disposed between the first receptor 122 and the second receptor 124. The second intermediate element 130 is disposed between the second receptor 124 and the third receptor 126.

[0195] In this embodiment, each of the first receptor 122, the second receptor 124, and the third receptor 126 is identical. Each receptor 122, 124, and 126 is an elongated tubular receptor defining a lumen. Each receptor and its corresponding lumen are substantially cylindrical, having a circular cross-section that is constant along the length of the receptor. The lumen of the first receptor 122 defines a first region 134. The lumen of the second receptor 124 defines a second region 136. The lumen of the third receptor defines a third region 138.

[0196] Similarly, the first intermediate element 128 and the second intermediate element 130 are identical. Intermediate elements 128 and 130 are tubular, defining an inner cavity. Each intermediate element 128 and 130 is substantially cylindrical, having a circular cross-section that is constant along the length of the intermediate element. The outer diameter of intermediate elements 128 and 130 is the same as the outer diameter of receptors 122, 124, and 126, such that the outer surfaces of intermediate elements 128 and 130 can be flush-aligned with the outer surfaces of receptors 122, 124, and 126. The inner diameter of intermediate elements 128 and 130 is also the same as the inner diameter of receptors 122, 124, and 126, such that the inner surfaces of intermediate elements 128 and 130 can be flush-aligned with the inner surfaces of receptors 122, 124, and 126.

[0197] The first receptor 122, the first intermediate element 128, the second receptor 124, the second intermediate element 130, and the third receptor 126 are arranged end-to-end and coaxially aligned on the axis BB. In this arrangement, the receptors 122, 124, 126 and the intermediate elements 128, 130 form a tubular, elongated cylindrical structure. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, this structure forms a receptor device 120.

[0198] The elongated tubular receptor device 120 includes a cavity 140. The receptor device cavity 140 is defined by the cavities of receptors 122, 124, and 126 and the cavities of intermediate elements 128 and 130. As described in more detail below, the receptor device cavity 140 is configured to receive an aerosol generating segment of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0199] Intermediate elements 128 and 130 are formed of electrically insulating and thermally insulating materials. Therefore, receptors 122, 124, and 126 are substantially electrically insulating and thermally insulating from each other. The materials of intermediate elements 128 and 130 are also substantially impermeable to gas. In this embodiment, the tubular receptor device 120 is substantially gas-impermeable from its outer surface to the inner surface defining the receptor device cavity 140.

[0200] Figure 5 , 6 Figures 7 and 8 show schematic cross-sections of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 and the aerosol generating article 200.

[0201] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a generally cylindrical device housing 102 having a shape and size similar to that of a conventional cigar. The device housing 102 defines a device cavity 104 at its proximal end. The device cavity 104 is generally cylindrical, open at its proximal end, and generally closed at its distal end opposite to the proximal end. The device cavity 104 is configured to receive an aerosol generating segment 210 of the aerosol generating article 200. Therefore, the length and diameter of the device cavity 104 are substantially similar to the length and diameter of the aerosol generating segment 210 of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0202] The aerosol generating apparatus 100 also includes a power supply 106 in the form of a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery, a controller 108 in the form of a printed circuit board including a microprocessor, an electrical connector 109, and an induction heating device 110. The power supply 106, controller 108, and induction heating device 110 are all housed within an apparatus housing 102. The induction heating device 110 of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 is arranged at the proximal end of the apparatus 100 and generally surrounds the apparatus cavity 104. The electrical connector 109 is arranged at the distal end of the apparatus housing 109, opposite the apparatus cavity 104.

[0203] Controller 108 is configured to control the power supply from power source 106 to induction heating device 110. Controller 108 also includes a DC / AC inverter comprising a Class D power amplifier and configured to supply varying current, preferably AC current, to induction heating device 110. Alternatively or additionally, the DC / AC inverter may include at least one of Class C and Class E power amplifiers. Controller 108 is also configured to control the recharging of power source 106 from electrical connector 109. Additionally, controller 108 includes a suction sensor (not shown) configured to sense when a user draws air from an aerosol-generating article received in device cavity 104.

[0204] The induction heating device 110 includes three induction heating units: a first induction heating unit 112, a second induction heating unit 114, and a third induction heating unit 116. The first induction heating unit 112, the second induction heating unit 114, and the third induction heating unit 116 are substantially the same.

[0205] The first induction heating unit 112 includes a cylindrical tubular first inductor coil 150, a cylindrical tubular first flux concentrator 152 disposed around the first inductor coil 150, and a cylindrical tubular first inductor unit housing 154 disposed around the first flux concentrator 152.

[0206] The second induction heating unit 114 includes a cylindrical tubular second inductor coil 160, a cylindrical tubular second flux concentrator 162 disposed around the second inductor coil 160, and a cylindrical tubular second inductor unit housing 164 disposed around the second flux concentrator 162.

[0207] The third induction heating unit 116 includes a cylindrical tubular third inductor coil 170, a cylindrical tubular third flux concentrator 172 disposed around the third inductor coil 170, and a cylindrical tubular third inductor unit housing 174 disposed around the third flux concentrator 172.

[0208] Therefore, each induction heating unit 112, 114, 116 forms a substantially tubular unit with a circular cross-section. In each induction heating unit 112, 114, 116, a flux concentrator extends above the proximal and distal ends of the inductor coil, such that the inductor coil is arranged within the annular cavity of the flux concentrator. Similarly, each induction heating unit housing extends above the proximal and distal ends of the flux concentrator, such that the flux concentrator and the inductor coil are arranged within the annular cavity of the induction heating unit housing. This arrangement allows the flux concentrator to concentrate the magnetic field generated by the inductor coil within the cavity of the inductor coil. This arrangement also allows the inductor unit housing to retain the flux concentrator and the inductor coil within the inductor unit housing.

[0209] The induction heating device 110 also includes a sensor device 120. The sensor device 120 is disposed around the inner surface of the device cavity 104. In this embodiment, the device housing 102 defines the inner surface of the device cavity 104. However, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the inner surface of the device cavity is defined by the inner surface of the sensor device 120.

[0210] Induction heating units 112, 114, and 116 are arranged around the sensor device 120 such that the sensor device 120 and the induction heating units 112, 114, and 116 are concentrically arranged around the device cavity 104. The first induction heating unit 112 is located at the distal end of the device cavity 104 around the first sensor 122. The second induction heating unit 114 is located at the central portion of the device cavity 104 around the second sensor 124. The third induction heating unit 116 is located at the proximal end of the device cavity 104 around the third sensor 126. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the flux concentrator may also extend into the intermediate elements of the sensor device to further distort the magnetic field generated by the sensor coil toward the sensor.

[0211] The first sensor coil 150 is connected to the controller 108 and the power supply 106, and the controller 108 is configured to supply a varying current, preferably AC current, to the first sensor coil 150. When a varying current, preferably AC current, is supplied to the first sensor coil 150, the first sensor coil 150 generates a varying magnetic field, which heats the first sensor 122 by induction.

[0212] The second sensor coil 160 is connected to the controller 108 and the power supply 106, and the controller 108 is configured to supply a varying current, preferably AC current, to the second sensor coil 160. When a varying current, preferably AC current, is supplied to the second sensor coil 160, the second sensor coil 160 generates a varying magnetic field, which heats the second sensor 124 by induction.

[0213] The first sensor coil 170 is connected to the controller 108 and the power supply 106, and the controller 108 is configured to supply a varying current, preferably AC current, to the third sensor coil 170. When a varying current, preferably AC current, is supplied to the third sensor coil 170, the third sensor coil 170 generates a varying magnetic field, which heats the third sensor 126 by induction.

[0214] The device housing 102 also defines an air inlet 180 immediately adjacent to the distal end of the device cavity 106. The air inlet 180 is configured to allow ambient air to be drawn into the device housing 102. An airflow path 181 is defined through the device between the air inlet 180 and an air outlet at the distal end of the device cavity 104, allowing air to be drawn from the air inlet 180 into the device cavity 104.

[0215] The aerosol generating article 200 is generally in the form of a cylindrical rod, with a diameter similar to the inner diameter of the device cavity 104. The aerosol generating article 200 includes a cylindrical cellulose acetate filter tip section 204 and a cylindrical aerosol generating section 210, which are wrapped together by the outer packaging 220 of cigarette paper.

[0216] The filter tip section 204 is arranged at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 200 and forms the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating system, through which the user inhales to receive the aerosol generated by the system.

[0217] The aerosol generating segment 210 is disposed at the distal end of the aerosol generating article 200 and has a length substantially equal to that of the device cavity 104. The aerosol generating segment 210 includes a plurality of aerosol forming matrices, including: a first aerosol forming matrix 212 at the distal end of the aerosol generating article 200, a second aerosol forming matrix 214 adjacent to the first aerosol forming matrix 212, and a third aerosol forming matrix 216 adjacent to the second aerosol forming matrix 216 at the proximal end of the aerosol generating segment 210. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, two or more aerosol forming matrices may be formed from the same material. However, in this embodiment, each of the aerosol forming matrices 212, 214, and 216 is different. The first aerosol forming matrix 212 comprises an aggregated rolled sheet of homogenized tobacco material without any added flavoring agent. The second aerosol forming matrix 214 comprises an aggregated rolled sheet of homogenized tobacco material, including a flavoring agent in the form of menthol. The third aerosol forming matrix may include a flavoring agent in the form of menthol and does not include tobacco material or any other nicotine source. Each of aerosol forming matrices 212, 214, and 216 may also include additional components, such as one or more aerosol forming agents and water, such that heating the aerosol forming matrix generates an aerosol with desired sensory properties.

[0218] The proximal end of the first aerosol forming matrix 212 is exposed because it is not covered by the outer packaging 220. In this embodiment, air can be drawn into the aerosol generating segment 210 via the proximal end of the first aerosol forming matrix 212 at the proximal end of the article 200.

[0219] In this embodiment, the first aerosol forming matrix 212, the second aerosol forming matrix 214, and the third aerosol forming matrix 216 are arranged end-to-end. However, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, a gap may be provided between the first aerosol forming matrix and the second aerosol forming matrix, and a gap may be provided between the second aerosol forming matrix and the third aerosol forming matrix.

[0220] like Figure 7 As shown, when the aerosol-forming segment 210 of the aerosol-forming article 200 is received in the device cavity 104, the length of the first aerosol-forming matrix 212 is such that the first aerosol-forming matrix 212 extends from the distal end of the device cavity 104 through the first region 134 of the first receptor 122 and extends to the first intermediate member 128. The length of the second aerosol-forming matrix 214 is such that the second aerosol-forming matrix 214 extends from the first intermediate member 128 through the second region 136 of the second receptor 124 and extends to the second intermediate member 130. The length of the third aerosol-forming matrix 216 is such that the third aerosol-forming matrix 216 extends from the second intermediate member 130 to the proximal end of the device cavity 104.

[0221] In use, when the aerosol generating article 200 is received in the device cavity 104, the user can inhale by drawing air from the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 200 to draw in the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system. When the user inhales from the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 200, air is drawn into the device housing 102 at the air inlet 180 and into the device cavity 104 along the airflow path 181. Air is drawn into the aerosol generating article 200 at the proximal end of the first aerosol forming matrix 212 and passes through an outlet at the distal end of the device cavity 104.

[0222] In this embodiment, the controller 108 of the aerosol generation apparatus 100 is configured to supply power to the inductor coils of the induction heating apparatus 110 in a predetermined sequence. The predetermined sequence includes: supplying a variable current, preferably AC current, to the first inductor coil 150 during the first inhalation from the user; subsequently, after the first inhalation is completed, supplying a variable current, preferably AC current, to the second inductor coil 160 during the second inhalation from the user; and subsequently, after the second inhalation is completed, supplying a variable current, preferably AC current, to the third inductor coil 170 during the third inhalation from the user. During the fourth inhalation, this sequence again begins at the first inductor coil 150. This sequence heats the first aerosol forming matrix 212 during the first inhalation, the second aerosol forming matrix 214 during the second inhalation, and the third aerosol forming matrix 216 during the third inhalation. Because the aerosol forming matrices 212, 214, and 216 of the article 100 are all different, this sequence results in a different user experience during each inhalation on the aerosol generation system.

[0223] It should be recognized that the controller 108 can be configured to supply power to the sensor coil in different sequences or simultaneously (depending on the user's desired aerosol delivery). In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device can be controlled by the user to change this sequence.

[0224] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a receptor device 310 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The receptor device 310 is an elongated tubular element having a circular cross-section. The receptor device 310 includes a single elongated receptor having a first portion 312 and a second portion 314. The first portion 312 and the second portion 314 are each elongated tubular elements having a circular cross-section. The first portion 312 and the second portion 314 are coaxially aligned end-to-end along a longitudinal axis AA.

[0225] The receptor device 310 includes a cylindrical cavity 320 open at both ends, defined by the inner surfaces of a first portion 312 and a second portion 314. The cavity 320 is configured to receive a portion of a cylindrical aerosol-generating article (not shown) comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, such that the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article can be heated by the first and second receptors, thereby heating the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0226] Cavity 320 is configured to receive part of an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix.

[0227] The cavity 320 includes two parts: a first part 322 defined at a first end by the inner surface of the first part 312 of the receptor device 310, and a second part 324 defined at a second end opposite to the first end by the inner surface of the second part 314 of the receptor device 310. The first part 312 of the receptor device 310 is arranged to heat a first part of the aerosol-generating article received in the first part 322 of the cavity 320, and the second part 314 of the receptor device 310 is arranged to heat a second part of the aerosol-generating article received in the second part 324 of the cavity 320.

[0228] A first sensor coil 332 is disposed around a first portion 312 of the sensor device 310 and substantially extends the length of the first portion 312 of the sensor device 310. Thus, the first portion 312 of the sensor device 310 is substantially defined along its length by the first sensor coil 332. When a changing current, preferably an AC current, is supplied to the first sensor coil 332, the first sensor coil 332 generates a changing magnetic field concentrated in the first portion 322 of the cavity 320. This changing magnetic field generated by the first sensor coil 332 induces eddy currents in the first portion 312 of the sensor device 310, causing the first portion 312 of the sensor device 310 to be heated.

[0229] The second sensor coil 334 is disposed around the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310 and substantially extends the length of the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310. Therefore, the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310 is defined substantially along its length by the second sensor coil 334. When a changing current, preferably AC current, is supplied to the second sensor coil 334, the second sensor coil 334 generates a changing magnetic field concentrated in the second portion 324 of the cavity 320. This changing magnetic field generated by the second sensor coil 334 induces eddy currents in the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310, causing the second sensor 314 to be heated.

[0230] The first portion 312 and the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310 can be heated simultaneously by simultaneously supplying a varying current, preferably AC current, to the first sensor coil 332 and the second sensor coil 334. Alternatively, the first portion 312 and the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310 can be heated independently or alternately by supplying a varying current, preferably AC current, to the first sensor coil 332 without supplying current to the second sensor coil 334, and subsequently supplying a varying current, preferably AC current, to the second sensor coil 334 without supplying current to the first sensor coil 332. It is also contemplated that the varying current, preferably AC current, can be supplied sequentially to the first sensor coil 332 and the second sensor coil 334.

[0231] A temperature sensor in the form of a thermocouple is also disposed on the outer surface of the sensor device 310. A first thermocouple 342 is disposed on the outer surface of the first portion 312 of the sensor device 310 to sense the temperature of the first portion 312 of the sensor device 310. A second thermocouple 344 is disposed on the outer surface of the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310 to sense the temperature of the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310.

[0232] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system 600 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generation system 600 includes an aerosol generation device 602, which includes... Figure 8 The sensor device 310, the first sensor coil 332, and the second sensor coil 334. The aerosol generating device 602 is similar to... Figure 5 The aerosol generating apparatus 100, and the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same parts.

[0233] The aerosol generation system 600 also includes an aerosol generation device 700. The aerosol generation article 700 includes an aerosol forming matrix 702 in the form of a cylindrical rod, and includes a tobacco strand made from homogenized tobacco and an aerosol forming agent. The cylindrical rod of the aerosol forming matrix 702 has a length substantially equal to the length of the device cavity 104. The aerosol generation article 700 also includes a tubular cooling section 704, a filter section 706, and an end section 708. The aerosol forming matrix 702, the tubular cooling section 704, the filter section 706, and the end section 708 are held together by an outer packaging 710.

[0234] In one example, the length of the aerosol forming matrix 702 is between 34 mm and 50 mm, more preferably, the length of the aerosol forming matrix 702 is between 38 mm and 46 mm, and still more preferably, the length of the aerosol forming matrix 702 is 42 mm.

[0235] In one example, the total length of article 700 is between 71 mm and 95 mm, more preferably, the total length of article 700 is between 79 mm and 87 mm, and still more preferably, the total length of article 700 is 83 mm.

[0236] In one example, the cooling section 704 is an annular tube, and an air gap is defined within the cooling section 704. The air gap provides a chamber for the flow of heated volatile components generated from the aerosol forming matrix 702. The cooling section 704 is hollow to provide a chamber for aerosol buildup, but is rigid enough to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may be generated during manufacturing and when the article 700 is used during insertion into the aerosol generating apparatus 602. In one example, the wall thickness of the cooling section 704 is approximately 0.29 mm.

[0237] Cooling segment 704 provides physical displacement between aerosol forming matrix 702 and filter segment 706. This physical displacement provides a thermal gradient along the length of cooling segment 704 during use. In one example, cooling segment 704 is configured to provide a temperature difference of at least 40 degrees Celsius between the heated volatile component entering the distal end of cooling segment 704 and the heated volatile component leaving the proximal end of cooling segment 704. In another example, cooling segment 704 is configured to provide a temperature difference of at least 60 degrees Celsius between the heated volatile component entering the distal end of cooling segment 704 and the heated volatile component leaving the proximal end of cooling segment 704. This temperature difference along the length of cooling element 704 protects the temperature-sensitive filter segment 706 from the high temperatures of the aerosol formed by aerosol forming matrix 702.

[0238] In one example, the length of the cooling segment 704 is at least 15 mm. In another example, the length of the cooling segment 704 is between 20 mm and 30 mm, more particularly between 23 mm and 27 mm, more particularly between 25 mm and 27 mm, and more particularly 25 mm.

[0239] The cooling section 704 is made of paper. In one example, the cooling section 704 is made of a helically wound paper tube that provides a hollow interior while maintaining mechanical rigidity. The helically wound paper tube can meet the stringent dimensional accuracy requirements of high-speed manufacturing processes in terms of tube length, outer diameter, roundness, and straightness. In another example, the cooling section 704 is a recess formed by a rigid filter section package or tipping paper. The rigid filter section package or tipping paper is manufactured to have sufficient rigidity to withstand the axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during manufacturing and when the article 700 is used during insertion into the aerosol generating device 602.

[0240] For each instance of cooling segment 704, the dimensional accuracy of the cooling segment is sufficient to meet the dimensional accuracy requirements of high-speed manufacturing processes.

[0241] Filter segment 706 can be formed of any filter material sufficient to remove one or more volatile compounds from the heated volatile components from the aerosol forming matrix 702. In one example, filter segment 706 is made of a monoacetate material such as cellulose acetate. Filter segment 706 provides cooling and irritation reduction of the heated volatile components without consuming the amount of heated volatile components to an unsatisfactory level for the user.

[0242] The density of the cellulose acetate bundle material in filter segment 706 controls the pressure drop across filter segment 706, which in turn controls the suction resistance of product 700. Therefore, the selection of the material for filter segment 706 is important for controlling the suction resistance of product 700. Furthermore, the filter segment performs a filtration function within product 700.

[0243] The presence of filter segment 706 provides insulation by further cooling the heated volatile components leaving cooling segment 704. This further cooling effect reduces the contact temperature of the user's lips on the surface of filter segment 706.

[0244] One or more flavorings can be added to the filter segment 706 by directly injecting the flavoring liquid into the filter segment 706 or by embedding or arranging one or more flavoring fragile capsules or other flavoring carriers within a bundle of cellulose acetate in the filter segment 706. In one example, the length of the filter segment 706 is between 6 mm and 10 mm, more preferably 8 mm.

[0245] The orifice segment 708 is an annular tube, and an air gap is defined within it. The air gap provides a chamber for the heated volatile components flowing from the filter segment 706. The orifice segment 708 is hollow to provide a chamber for aerosol buildup, but is rigid enough to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during manufacturing and when the article is used during insertion into the aerosol generating apparatus 602. In one example, the wall thickness of the orifice segment 708 is approximately 0.29 mm.

[0246] In one example, the length of the oral segment 708 is between 6 mm and 10 mm, and more preferably 8 mm.

[0247] The end segment 708 can be made of a helically wound paper tube that provides a hollow interior while maintaining critical mechanical stiffness. The helically wound paper tube can meet the stringent dimensional accuracy requirements of high-speed manufacturing processes in terms of tube length, outer diameter, roundness, and straightness.

[0248] The outlet section 708 provides a function to prevent any liquid condensate that accumulates at the outlet of the filter section 706 from coming into direct contact with the user.

[0249] It should be understood that, in one instance, the port segment 708 and the cooling segment 704 may be formed from a single tube, and the filter segment 706 is located within the tube that separates the port segment 708 from the cooling segment 704.

[0250] Ventilation holes 707 are located in cooling sections 704 to aid in cooling the article 700. In one example, ventilation holes 707 comprise one or more rows of holes, and preferably, each row of holes is arranged circumferentially around the article 700 in a cross section substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the article 700.

[0251] In one example, there are one to four rows of ventilation holes 707 to provide ventilation for the article 700. Each row of ventilation holes 707 may have 12 to 36 ventilation holes 707. The diameter of the ventilation holes 707 may be, for example, between 100 and 500 micrometers. In one example, the axial spacing between each row of ventilation holes 707 is between 0.25 mm and 0.75 mm, more preferably, the axial spacing between each row of ventilation holes 707 is 0.5 mm.

[0252] In one example, the vent 707 has a uniform size. In another example, the vent 707 has varying sizes. The vent 707 can be manufactured using any suitable technique, such as one or more of the following: laser technology, mechanical perforation of the cooling segment 704, or pre-perforation of the cooling segment 704 before it is formed into the article 700. The vent 707 is positioned to provide effective cooling to the article 700.

[0253] In one example, each row of ventilation holes 707 is positioned at least 11 mm from the proximal end of the article 700, and more preferably, the ventilation holes 707 are positioned between 17 mm and 20 mm from the proximal end of the article 700. The ventilation holes 707 are positioned so that the user will not obstruct the ventilation holes 707 when using the article 700.

[0254] Advantageously, each row of vents 707 is positioned between 17 mm and 20 mm from the proximal end of the article 700 such that the vents 707 are located outside the aerosol generating apparatus 602 when the article 700 is fully inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 602. By positioning the vents 707 outside the apparatus 602, unheated air can enter the article 700 from outside the apparatus 602 through the vents 707 to help cool the article 700.

[0255] Figure 10A graph showing the temperature 404 changing over time 402 during a heating cycle is illustrated, showing the sensor device 310's first portion 312 using readings from a first thermocouple 342 and the sensor device 310's second portion using readings from a second thermocouple 344. Figure 10 In the diagram, the temperature of the first portion 312 of the sensor device 310 from the first thermocouple 342 is shown by solid line 406. Figure 10 In the diagram, the temperature of the second part 314 of the sensor device 310 from the second thermocouple 344 is shown by the dashed line 408.

[0256] like Figure 10 As shown, when heating begins, the first portion 312 of the receptor device 310 is rapidly heated during the first phase 410 and reaches operating temperature after a first cycle 414 of approximately 60 seconds. The second portion 314 of the receptor device 310 is heated during the first phase 410, but at a much slower rate than the first portion 312. The temperature of the first portion 312 of the receptor device 310 is greater than the temperature of the second portion 314 of the receptor device 310 throughout the first phase 410. The second portion 314 of the receptor device 310 does not reach operating temperature during the first phase 410. In this embodiment, operating temperature refers to the desired temperature at which the most desired aerosol is released from the aerosol forming matrix.

[0257] For example Figure 10 As shown, after a second cycle 416 of approximately 150 seconds from the start of heating, the first phase 410 ends and the second phase 412 begins. In the second phase 412, the first portion 312 of the sensor device 312 is heated to a lower temperature, but still within approximately 50 degrees Celsius of the operating temperature. Also in the second phase 412, the second portion 314 of the sensor device 310 is rapidly heated to the operating temperature, reaching the operating temperature after a third cycle 418 of approximately 210 seconds from the start of heating.

[0258] Specifically, Figure 10A desired temperature profile for an aerosol generation system is shown, wherein a first portion 312 of a sensor device 310 is arranged to heat a proximal portion of the aerosol-forming matrix, and a second portion 314 of the sensor device 310 is arranged to heat a distal portion of the aerosol-forming matrix. The proximal portion of the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​closer to the mouthpiece end of the aerosol-generating article comprising the aerosol-forming matrix. This temperature profile across the aerosol-forming matrix allows for the generation of an aerosol with desired properties throughout the extended aerosol generation time period. Heating the proximal portion of the aerosol-forming matrix prior to heating the distal portion facilitates optimal delivery of the generated aerosol to the user. Specifically, this is believed to be because during the first stage, the hot aerosol from the heated proximal portion of the aerosol-forming matrix does not interact with the unheated distal portion of the aerosol-forming matrix, and therefore the hot aerosol from the proximal portion does not release volatile compounds from the distal portion.

[0259] This temperature distribution curve can be achieved by driving varying currents, preferably AC currents, in the first sensor coil 312 and the second sensor coil 314 in various ways. For example, in a first stage, a first varying current, preferably AC current, can be driven in the first sensor coil 312 with a first duty cycle, and a second varying current, preferably AC current, can be driven in the second sensor coil 314, the duty cycle of the second varying current being less than the duty cycle of the first varying current, such that during the first stage, the current driven in the first sensor coil 312 is greater than the current driven in the second sensor coil 314. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the varying current is not supplied to the second sensor coil 314 in the first stage 410. In the second stage, the opposite can be applied, such that the duty cycle of the first varying current is lower than the duty cycle of the second varying current.

[0260] exist Figure 11 The image depicts an induction heating device 501. The induction heating device 501 includes a first LC circuit 510. The first LC circuit 510 includes a first inductor coil 512 and a first capacitor 514. The first inductor coil 512 has a first inductance. The first capacitor 514 has a first capacitance. The resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510 is determined by the first inductance and the first capacitance.

[0261] Figure 11 A first transistor 516, such as a FET, connected to the first LC circuit 510 is also shown. Furthermore, Figure 11The diagram depicts a DC power supply terminal 518. The DC power supply terminal 518 is connected to the device's power supply, preferably a battery. A first LC circuit 510 is configured to inductively heat the first portion of the sensor device. The first portion of the sensor device may be arranged adjacent to a first sensor coil such that the first sensor coil can heat the first portion of the sensor element through one or both of eddy currents and hysteresis losses.

[0262] Figure 11 The induction heating device 501 also includes a second LC circuit 520, which includes a second inductor coil 522 and a second capacitor 524. A second transistor 526 is associated with the second LC circuit 520.

[0263] The first transistor 516 is configured to control the operation of the first LC circuit 510. The second transistor 526 is configured to control the operation of the second LC circuit 520.

[0264] The components of the second LC circuit 520 can be similar to those of the first LC circuit 510. In other words, the second inductor coil 522 can have a second inductance, the second capacitor 524 can have a second capacitance, and the second transistor 526 can be a FET. The two LC circuits 510 and 520 can be connected in parallel to a DC power supply.

[0265] In addition to the power stage 528, Figure 12 The controller 527 is shown. The power stage 528 may include a first LC circuit 510 and a first transistor 516, such as... Figure 11 As depicted herein. Alternatively, power stage 528 may include... Figure 11 All the components depicted in the image. Figure 12 The controller 527 depicted may include an oscillator 530. The oscillator 530 may be connected to one or both of the first transistor 516 and the second transistor 526. Figure 12 The document also shows a DC power supply 532. The DC power supply 532 can be used to provide... Figure 12 The components shown are powered. Additionally, DC power supply 532 can be used to power controller 527, preferably oscillator 530.

[0266] The controller 527 may also include a pulse width modulation module 534. The pulse width modulation module 534 can be configured to modulate signals used to drive the LC circuits 510 and 520. The controller 527 can be configured to drive the LC circuits 510 and 520. In other words, the controller 527 can be configured to supply electrical signals to the LC circuits 510 and 520.

[0267] The pulse width modulation module 534 is optional. The controller 527 can be configured to drive the first LC circuit 510 using an AC current of a first frequency. The first frequency may correspond to the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510. The controller 527 can be configured to drive the second LC circuit 520 using an AC current of a second frequency. The second frequency may correspond to the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520.

[0268] The resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510 is the same as the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520. The controller 527 can be configured to supply an AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510 to the first LC circuit 510 during a first stage. The first stage may be a stage in which the first portion of the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​heated primarily by the first portion of the sensor device. During the first stage, the controller 527 can be configured to supply an AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520 to the second LC circuit 520. Therefore, the second LC circuit 520 will be heated to a temperature lower than that of the first LC circuit 510. In the second stage, in which the second portion of the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​heated primarily by the second portion of the sensor device, complementary AC currents can be supplied to the LC circuits 510 and 520 by the controller. In the second stage, an AC current corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520 can be supplied to the second LC circuit 520, and an AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510 can be supplied to the first LC circuit 510.

[0269] Figure 13 An embodiment is shown in which the first LC circuit 510 is primarily heated in the first stage, while the second LC circuit 520 is heated to a lower temperature in the first stage. This is reversed in the second stage, where the first LC circuit 510 is heated to a temperature lower than that of the second LC circuit 520. To facilitate this, pulse width modulation is employed. More specifically... Figure 13 The top of the image shows the complementary duty cycles of the first alternating pulse width modulation (APM) signal (top left) and the second APM signal (top right). The first APM signal will be referred to as signal 536 in this document. The second APM signal will be referred to as signal 538 in this document. Duty cycle refers to the percentage of the on-time of the corresponding signal. Figure 13 As can be seen, the first signal 536 has a high duty cycle of about 80%, while the second signal 538 has a low duty cycle of about 20%. Figure 13 The embodiment shown corresponds to the first stage, in which the first portion 541 of the receptor device 540 is primarily heated, while the second portion 542 of the receptor device 540 is heated to a lower temperature. Figure 13Below the signals shown, a first sensor coil 512 and a second sensor coil 522 are depicted. Below the sensor coils 512 and 522, a sensor device 540 including a first portion 541 and a second portion 542 is shown. Below the sensor device 540, an aerosol generating article 542 including an aerosol forming matrix is ​​shown. Below the aerosol generating article 542, a graph 544 showing the heat variation with distance is depicted. The heat is primarily higher in the first portion 541 of the sensor device 540, while the heat is lower in the second portion 542 of the sensor device 540. During the second phase, the heating of the sensor device 540 will be different. During the second phase, the second LC circuit 520 heats the second portion 542 of the sensor device 540 to a higher temperature, and the temperature of the first portion 541 of the sensor device 540 will be lower in the first phase. To facilitate this, pulse width modulation can be used similarly to the first phase. The duty cycle of the second signal 538 can be increased, while the duty cycle of the first signal 536 can be decreased. The degree can gradually change from the first stage to the second stage. The duty cycle of the first signal 536 and the duty cycle of the second signal 538 can be combined to 100%. Alternatively, the duty cycle of the first signal 536 and the duty cycle of the second signal 538 can be combined to a level less than 100%. For example, in the first stage, the duty cycle of the first signal 536 can be higher than 50%, such as 80%, and the duty cycle of the second signal 538 can be close to 0% or 0%; and the reverse is true in the second stage.

[0270] It should be recognized that the embodiments described above are merely specific examples, and other embodiments are conceivable based on this disclosure.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating device comprising: an induction heating arrangement configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, the induction heating arrangement comprising: a susceptor arrangement heatable by penetration by a varying magnetic field to heat the aerosol-forming substrate, a first LC circuit comprising at least a first inductor coil and a first capacitor, wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency, and a second LC circuit comprising at least a second inductor coil and a second capacitor, wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to drive the first LC circuit with a first AC current for generating a first alternating magnetic field to heat a first portion of the susceptor arrangement, wherein the controller is configured to drive the second LC circuit with a second AC current for generating a second alternating magnetic field to heat a second portion of the susceptor arrangement, wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit and to supply the second AC current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency, wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current to the first LC circuit during a first phase to increase a temperature of the first portion of the susceptor arrangement from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, and wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit during the first phase.

2. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current to the first LC circuit during a second phase to decrease a temperature of the first portion of the susceptor arrangement from the first operating temperature to a second operating temperature, and wherein the controller is configured to supply the first AC current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit during the second phase.

3. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to supply the second AC current to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the susceptor device from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature that is lower than the first operating temperature, and wherein, the controller is configured to supply the second AC current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit during the first phase.

4. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to supply the second AC current to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the susceptor device from the third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature that is higher than the second operating temperature, and wherein, the controller is configured to supply the second AC current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit during the second phase.

5. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the aerosol- generating device further comprises a power supply for supplying power to the induction heating arrangement.

6. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller comprises a microcontroller.

7. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 6, wherein the microcontroller is configured to use a clock frequency of the microcontroller as one or both of an alternating frequency of the first AC current and an alternating frequency of the second AC current.

8. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the aerosol- generating device or the controller further comprises an oscillator for generating one or both of an alternating frequency of the first AC current and an alternating frequency of the second AC current.

9. A method of controlling an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device comprising: an inductive heating arrangement configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, the inductive heating arrangement comprising: a susceptor arrangement heatable by penetration by a varying magnetic field to heat the aerosol-forming substrate, a first LC circuit comprising at least a first inductor coil and a first capacitor, wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency, and a second LC circuit comprising at least a second inductor coil and a second capacitor, wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to drive the first LC circuit and to drive the second LC circuit, the method comprising: driving the first LC circuit with a first AC current for generating a first alternating magnetic field to heat a first portion of the susceptor arrangement, driving the second LC circuit with a second AC current for generating a second alternating magnetic field to heat a second portion of the susceptor arrangement, and supplying a first AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit and supplying a second AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency, wherein the first AC current is supplied to the first LC circuit during a first phase to increase a temperature of the first portion of the susceptor arrangement from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, and wherein the first AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit is supplied during the first phase.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first AC current is supplied to the first LC circuit during a second phase to reduce the temperature of the first portion of the susceptor device from the first operating temperature to a second operating temperature, and wherein, the first AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit is supplied during the second phase.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the second AC current is supplied to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase a temperature of a second portion of the susceptor device from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature that is lower than the first operating temperature, and wherein, the second AC current having a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit is supplied during the first phase.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the second AC current is supplied to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase a temperature of a second portion of the susceptor device from the third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature that is higher than the second operating temperature, and wherein, the second AC current having a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit is supplied during the second phase.

13. An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

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