Induction heating element with heat deformable susceptor for aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device comprises a cavity (14) for receiving an aerosol- generating article (16) comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, and a heating element (10). The heating element is an inductive heating element and comprises a susceptor (12) configured for heating. The susceptor comprises a heat deformable element, which can be in the form of a bimetallic strip. The heat deformable element is arranged in the cavity and is configured to heat deform during a heating operation to contact and hold the aerosol-generating article received in the cavity. A system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article is also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] An aerosol generating apparatus for generating inhalable vapors is known. Such an apparatus can heat an aerosol forming matrix to a temperature that causes one or more components of the aerosol forming matrix to volatilize without burning the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol forming matrix can be provided as part of an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article can have a strip shape for inserting the aerosol generating article into a cavity (e.g., a heating chamber) of the aerosol generating apparatus. Heating elements can be arranged in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol forming matrix once the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The cavity must be configured to allow insertion of the aerosol generating article. Simultaneously, during operation of the aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating article must be securely held within the cavity. Summary of the Invention

[0003] It is desirable to have a heating element that allows the aerosol-generating article to be inserted into a cavity. It is desirable to have a heating element that securely holds the aerosol-generating article within the cavity during operation of the aerosol-generating device. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device that allows the aerosol-generating article to be inserted into a cavity. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device that securely holds the aerosol-generating article within a cavity during operation of the aerosol-generating device. It is desirable to have a system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article, wherein the aerosol-generating article is made possible by inserting it into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. It is desirable to have a system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article, wherein the aerosol-generating article is securely held within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating device is operated. Further modification of the inhalable vapor to meet user expectations would be desirable.

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, which may include a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, and may include a heating element. The heating element may be an induction heating element. The heating element may include a sensor configured for heating. The sensor may include a heat-deformable element. The heat-deformable element may be disposed within the cavity. The heat-deformable element may be configured to thermally deform during heating operation to contact and retain the aerosol-generated article received in the cavity during heating operation.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix and a heating element. The heating element is an induction heating element. The heating element includes a sensor configured for heating. The sensor includes a heat-deformable element. The heat-deformable element is disposed in the cavity. The heat-deformable element is configured to thermally deform during heating operation to contact and retain the aerosol-generated article received in the cavity during heating operation.

[0006] By providing a sensor comprising a heat-deformable element, the sensor is capable of deformation during heating operation. This deformation of the sensor can be utilized. In particular, due to the deformation of the sensor during operation, the aerosol-generating article can be held in place by the sensor. Therefore, loosening of the aerosol-generating article during heating operation can be prevented. Furthermore, the closer contact between the sensor and the aerosol-generating article can improve heating efficiency.

[0007] The heat-deformable element can be made of bimetal. By utilizing bimetal, the heat-deformable element can deform upon heating. The bimetal can be configured to convert temperature changes into deformation of the bimetal. The bimetal can comprise two metals joined together. The two metals can have different coefficients of thermal expansion, thereby causing deformation during heating. The two metals of the bimetal can be arranged such that deformation during heating occurs along the direction of the aerosol-generating article. The metal with the lower coefficient of thermal expansion can be placed closer to the aerosol-generating article. In this way, the heat-deformable element is closer to the aerosol-generating article during heating operation.

[0008] The heat-deformable element may include a bimetallic strip. The bimetallic strip may be elongated. The longitudinal axis of the bimetallic strip may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cavity. The bimetallic strip may include two elongated metals joined together. The joining axis of the two metals may be parallel to or along the longitudinal axis of the bimetallic strip. The bimetallic strip may have a rectangular cross-section. However, other cross-sections of the bimetallic strip are possible, such as square, circular, or elliptical cross-sections.

[0009] The sensor can be made of bimetal. In this case, the sensor has a dual function. The first function of the sensor can be to be heated during heating operation. The second function of the sensor can be to deform during heating. Particularly preferably, the sensor can be a heat-deformable element.

[0010] The sensor may include a first material and a second material. The first material may have a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than the second material. The first material may be a first metal. The second material may be a second metal. The first material may be different from the second material. Specifically, the first metal may be different from the second metal.

[0011] The first material and the second material can be provided as layers adjacent to each other.

[0012] The first and second materials can extend along the entire length of the receptor. Alternatively, the first material can extend along the entire length of the receptor, while the second material extends only along a portion of the receptor, or vice versa. For example, the second material can be arranged only in the middle portion of the receptor. As another alternative, the first and second materials can be arranged in intermittent segments along the length of the receptor. In all these cases, the remaining portion of the receptor can be provided by one or both of the first and second materials. Alternatively, the remaining portion of the receptor can be provided by a third material. The remaining portion of the receptor can be one or both of the distal or proximal portion of the receptor. The third material can be selected as a material that is not heated when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. In other words, the third material does not have to be a receptor material. However, if heating of the adjacent third material is also desired, the third material can also be a receptor material.

[0013] The sensor, preferably the heat-deformable element of the sensor, can be arranged as a plurality of elongated elements.

[0014] Multiple receptors can be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus. The multiple receptors can be arranged to at least partially receive the aerosol-generated article. The multiple receptors can be arranged to form a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generated article. The multiple receptors can be arranged within the cavity for receiving the aerosol-generated article. The multiple receptors can be arranged such that all receptors deform in an inward direction when heated.

[0015] The sensor, preferably the heat-deformable element of the sensor, can be arranged as a plurality of elongated elements forming a hollow tubular arrangement, the hollow tubular arrangement having gaps between the elongated elements.

[0016] The gaps between the elongated receptors allow lateral airflow to enter the aerosol-generating article. The hollow tubular arrangement can form a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article, or can be placed within a cavity. During heating, all the individual receptors can deform inwards towards the interior of this hollow tubular arrangement. This allows for secure holding of the aerosol-generating article and improves heating efficiency.

[0017] Each of the plurality of elongated elements may include a first end and an opposing second end. One or both of the first ends of the plurality of elongated elements and the second ends of the plurality of elongated elements may preferably be connected to each other via a support ring.

[0018] In other words, multiple receptors can be connected to each other on one side. This connection can be at the base of the cavity formed by the receptors. Connection at the base can be facilitated by directly connecting the receptors to the base. The base can be part of an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein. Alternatively, connection at the base can be facilitated by a support ring. The support ring can be connected to the aerosol generating apparatus, preferably at the base of the cavity. Thus, the receptors can be connected to each other at the base of the cavity into which the aerosol generating article can be inserted. Alternatively, the receptors can be connected to each other adjacent to the opening of the cavity. This connection can be facilitated by a support ring. The support ring can form the opening of the cavity. Alternatively, the support ring can be arranged adjacent to or around the opening of the cavity. As another alternative, the receptors can be connected adjacent to the opening of the cavity and at the base of the cavity.

[0019] When the receptors are connected to each other at the base of the cavity, receptors near the openings of the cavity are preferably not connected to each other. This creates a slight funnel shape for the receptors. In other words, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular arrangement can decrease towards the base of the cavity. This facilitates the insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the cavity. During operation, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular arrangement, particularly the inner diameter of the openings adjacent to the hollow tubular arrangement, can be reduced to ensure that the aerosol-generating article is securely held.

[0020] If the receptor is located at the base of the cavity and the openings of adjacent cavities are attached to each other, the middle portion of the receptor can be used to hold the aerosol-generating article during operation. In this case, due to the connection of the receptors, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular arrangement at the base of the cavity and the openings of adjacent cavities can be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article throughout the operation and before and after operation. However, at the middle portion of the receptor, the receptor can deform inward toward the hollow tubular arrangement. During operation, the receptor can therefore deform into an hourglass shape to firmly hold the aerosol-generating article. During operation, the inner diameter of the receptor at the middle portion of the receptor can be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0021] The receptor can open near the opening of the cavity. The receptor is preferably open outwards. The opening of the receptor facilitates easier insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the cavity. The shape of the opening of the receptor can guide the aerosol-generating article during insertion into the cavity.

[0022] The hollow tubular arrangement of the sensor can have an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity. In this way, the aerosol-generating article can be easily inserted into the cavity. During operation, the sensor can deform as described herein. Deformation can result in a reduction in the inner diameter of the hollow tubular arrangement. This reduction in the inner diameter of the hollow tubular arrangement allows the inner diameter of the deformed hollow tubular arrangement to be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. In this way, the aerosol-generating article is securely held within the hollow tubular arrangement during heating operation.

[0023] After the heating operation, the thermodeformable element of the sensor can be configured to return to its initial shape. This return to the initial shape can be attributed to the thermodeformable element cooling to ambient temperature. The thermodeformable element may have ambient temperature at some point before and after the heating operation. Therefore, after the heating operation, when the thermodeformable element returns to its initial shape, the aerosol-generated article can be easily removed.

[0024] The aerosol generating device may further include an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field to heat the sensor of the heating element.

[0025] The induction coil may at least partially or completely surround the cavity. The induction coil is preferably constructed as a helical coil.

[0026] The cavity can be tubular. The hollow tubular arrangement of the receptor or the thermally deformable element of the receptor can be arranged to at least partially surround or at least partially form the cavity.

[0027] The first ends of multiple elongated elements can be connected to each other via a support ring. The second ends of multiple elongated elements can be fixed to the base of the cavity.

[0028] The base of the cavity can be located at the distal end of the cavity, and the support ring can be located at the proximal end of the cavity.

[0029] A first material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion can be arranged facing the cavity, and a second material can be arranged away from the cavity.

[0030] The present invention further relates to a system comprising an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming matrix as described herein.

[0031] The thermodeformable element of the sensor can be arranged such that an aerosol-generating article can be inserted into the cavity when the heating element is not operated. The thermodeformable element of the sensor can be configured to thermally deform when the heating element is operated, thereby retaining the aerosol-generating article in the cavity.

[0032] The aerosol-generating article may include one or more ruptureable capsules, the ruptureable capsules comprising one or more active agents. The one or more ruptureable capsules may be arranged adjacent to a thermodeformable element when the aerosol-generating article is received in a cavity, such that when a heating element is operated and the thermodeformable element of the sensor is thermally deformed, the capsule may rupture and one or more active agents may be released.

[0033] The aerosol generating article may include a matrix portion comprising an aerosol-forming matrix. Additionally, the aerosol generating article may include a capsule portion comprising a carrier material, wherein one or more ruptureable capsules may be embedded in the carrier material. The one or more ruptureable capsules may contain one or more active agents. At least a portion of the one or more ruptureable capsules may be disposed on the outer surface of the aerosol generating article.

[0034] Arranging one or more ruptureable capsules on the outer surface of the aerosol generating article makes it easy for the capsules to rupture when the aerosol generating article is received into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0035] Also provided is an aerosol-generating article, which may include a matrix portion comprising an aerosol-forming matrix. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article may include a capsule portion comprising a carrier material. One or more ruptureable capsules may be embedded in the carrier material. The one or more ruptureable capsules may contain one or more active agents. Additionally, the capsule portion may include at least one rigid element. The rigid element may be more rigid than the carrier material, and at least one rigid element may be configured to rupture the ruptureable capsule when pressure is applied to the capsule portion.

[0036] When the heating element is operated and the thermodeformable element of the sensor is thermally deformed, the thermodeformable element of the aerosol generating device can push at least one rigid element. Due to external pressure from the thermodeformable element, the rigid element can cause one or more ruptureable bladders to rupture.

[0037] At least one rigid element in the aerosol-generating article may be wedge-shaped. At least one rigid element may include an edge for penetrating the one or more ruptureable bladders. At least one rigid element may be made of plastic. At least one rigid element may be disposed on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article, particularly on the outer surface of the bladder portion.

[0038] In particular, multiple rigid elements can be present in the capsule portion of the aerosol-generating particles. A ruptureable capsule can be concentrically surrounded by multiple rigid elements.

[0039] At least one or more rigid elements may be arranged on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article. Therefore, the bladder can be ruptured by applying pressure to the rigid elements, which in turn will help to rupture the bladder.

[0040] The carrier material can be configured to resist pressure applied to the bladder portion. This ensures that any pressure applied to the bladder portion from the outside is not absorbed by the carrier material, but rather causes one or more ruptureable bladders to rupture.

[0041] The carrier material can have a higher density than the aerosol-forming matrix in the matrix portion. This higher density can also reduce or prevent the carrier material from absorbing any pressure applied to the bladder portion, allowing one or more ruptureable bladders to rupture easily.

[0042] The carrier material may include one or more of cellulose acetate fibers, paper, porous polymers, and charcoal. Cellulose acetate fibers may be cellulose acetate tows. The porous polymer may be a porous resin, such as phenylformaldehyde resin.

[0043] The carrier material can have a compressive strength of 20 to 60 MPa, preferably 29 to 53 MPa.

[0044] One or more surfactants contained in one or more ruptureable capsules may be solid or liquid. One or more surfactants may include gels. One or more surfactants may be volatile. Containing volatile surfactants in one or more ruptureable capsules ensures that the volatiles do not evaporate before the aerosol-generating article is used.

[0045] One or more surfactants may readily react with atmospheric components such as oxygen. Enclosing these sensitive surfactants in one or more ruptureable capsules can prevent any degradation of the surfactants before the aerosol-formed article is used.

[0046] One or more active agents may include flavoring agents, nicotine, and pharmaceuticals. For example, one or more active agents may include flavoring oils such as peppermint oil, menthol, nicotine oil, or other flavoring agents.

[0047] As used herein, an "aerosol generating device" relates to an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol-forming matrix to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming matrix may be part of an aerosol-generating article, such as a smoking article. The aerosol generating device may be a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of a user through their mouth. The aerosol generating device may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol generating device may include a housing, circuitry, a power supply, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0048] 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 can be a smoking article that generates aerosols that can be inhaled directly into the lungs of a user through their mouth. The aerosol-generating article can be disposable. The cavity of the aerosol-generating device can have an open end into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end can be a proximal end. The cavity can have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end can be the base of the cavity. The closed end can be closed except for providing air vents disposed in the base. The base of the cavity can be flat. The base of the cavity can be circular. The base of the cavity can be disposed upstream of the cavity. The open end can be disposed downstream of the cavity. The cavity can have an elongated extension. The cavity can have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal direction can be a direction extending along the longitudinal central axis between the open end and the closed end. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0049] The cavity can be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity can have a cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity. The cavity can have a circular cross-section. The cavity can have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity can have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0050] An airflow channel can pass through the cavity. Ambient air can be drawn into the aerosol generating device, into the cavity, and then drawn towards the user through the airflow channel. A mouthpiece can be positioned downstream of the cavity, or the user can inhale directly from the aerosol generating article. The airflow channel can extend through the mouthpiece.

[0051] As used herein with reference to the invention, the term "smoking" in relation to apparatus, articles, systems, matrix, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​completely or at least partially burned. The aerosol-generating apparatus of the present invention is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming matrix to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix but at or above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming matrix are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0052] The aerosol generating device may include circuitry. The circuitry may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The circuitry may include additional electronic components. The circuitry may be configured to regulate the power supply to a heating element, particularly to an induction coil. Power may be continuously supplied to the heating element after the aerosol generating device is activated, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as on a per-pocket suction basis. Power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of current pulses. The circuitry may be configured to monitor the resistance of the heating element and preferably control the power supply to the heating element based on the resistance of the heating element.

[0053] The aerosol generating device may include a power source, typically a battery, within the body of the device. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron-phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium-polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require charging and may have a capacity sufficient to store enough energy for one or more uses; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosols for approximately six minutes or multiples of six minutes. In another instance, the power source may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of discontinuous activations of the suction or heating element.

[0054] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming matrix. The aerosol-forming matrix may suitably be part of an aerosol-generating article or a smoking article.

[0055] The aerosol forming matrix can be a solid aerosol forming matrix. It can include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix can include tobacco-containing materials that contain volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix can also include non-tobacco materials. It can include aerosol forming agents that contribute to the formation of dense and stable aerosols. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating article includes a matrix portion having a ruptureable bladder, which, when inserted into a cavity of an aerosol generating device, is close to a thermodeformable element of the receptor. During operation, when the thermodeformable element deforms and presses against the ruptureable bladder, the bladder ruptures to release the active agent.

[0057] As used herein, the terms “upstream,” “downstream,” “proximal,” “distal,” “front,” and “rear” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws air from the aerosol generating device during use.

[0058] As described in this article, induction heating is utilized. For induction heating, an induction coil and a sensor are provided. Generally, a sensor is a material capable of generating heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When located in an alternating magnetic field, if the sensor is conductive, eddy currents are typically induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the sensor is magnetic, another effect that typically contributes to heating is often referred to as hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss is primarily caused by the movement of magnetic domains within the sensor, as the magnetic orientation of these domains aligns with the alternating magnetic field. Another effect contributing to hysteresis loss is the expansion or contraction of magnetic domains within the sensor. Typically, all these changes occurring in sensors at the nanoscale or below are referred to as “hysteresis loss” because they generate heat within the sensor. Therefore, if the sensor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and the generation of eddy currents contribute to heating the sensor. If the sensor is magnetic but not conductive, hysteresis loss will be the only means of heating the sensor when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the present invention, the sensor can be conductive or magnetic, or both. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or more induction coils heats the sensor, which then transfers heat to the aerosol-forming matrix to form an aerosol. Heat transfer can be primarily via thermal conduction. This heat transfer is optimal if the sensor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0059] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0060] Example A: An aerosol generating device, comprising:

[0061] A cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, and

[0062] A heating element, wherein the heating element is an induction heating element, wherein the heating element includes a sensor configured for heating, wherein the sensor includes a heat-deformable element, wherein the heat-deformable element is disposed in the cavity, and wherein the heat-deformable element is configured to thermally deform during heating operation to contact and retain the aerosol-generating article received in the cavity during heating operation.

[0063] Example B: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Example A, wherein the heat-deformable element is made of bimetal.

[0064] Example C: According to any of the aforementioned examples, the aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the heat-deformable element comprises a bimetallic strip.

[0065] Example D: According to any of the preceding examples, the aerosol generating device wherein the sensor is made of bimetal.

[0066] Example E: According to any of the aforementioned examples, the aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the sensor comprises a first material and a second material, wherein the first material has a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than the second material.

[0067] Example F: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Example E, wherein the first material and the second material are provided as layers adjacent to each other.

[0068] Example G: According to any of the aforementioned examples, the aerosol generating apparatus wherein the sensor, preferably the heat-deformable element of the sensor, is elongated.

[0069] Example H: According to any of the aforementioned examples, the aerosol generating apparatus wherein the sensor, preferably the heat-deformable element of the sensor, is arranged as a plurality of elongated elements.

[0070] Example I: According to any of the aforementioned examples, the aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the sensor, preferably the heat-deformable element of the sensor, is arranged to form a plurality of elongated elements in a hollow tubular arrangement, the hollow tubular arrangement having gaps between the elongated elements.

[0071] Example J: In the aerosol generating apparatus according to Example H or I, each of the plurality of elongated elements includes a first end and an opposing second end, and one or both of the first ends of the plurality of elongated elements and the second ends of the plurality of elongated elements are preferably connected to each other via a support ring.

[0072] Example K: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further includes an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field to heat the heating element.

[0073] Example L: The aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the cavity is tubular.

[0074] Example M: ​​According to any of the aforementioned examples, the first ends of the plurality of elongated elements are connected to each other via support rings, and the second ends of the plurality of elongated elements are fixed to the base of the cavity.

[0075] Example N: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Example M, wherein the base of the cavity is arranged at the distal end of the cavity, and the support ring is arranged at the proximal end of the cavity.

[0076] Example O: According to Example 5 and any of the preceding examples, the aerosol generating apparatus wherein the first material having a low coefficient of thermal expansion is arranged facing the cavity, and the second material is arranged away from the cavity.

[0077] Example P: A system comprising an aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming matrix.

[0078] Example Q: According to the system described in Example P, the heat-deformable element of the sensor is arranged such that the aerosol-generating article can be inserted into the cavity when the heating element is not operated, and wherein the heat-deformable element of the sensor is configured to heat-deform when the heating element is operated and thereby contact and retain the aerosol-generating article in the cavity.

[0079] Example R: According to the system described in Example P or Q, the aerosol generating article includes a capsule containing an active agent, and the capsule is arranged adjacent to the thermodeformable element when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity, such that when the heating element is operated and the thermodeformable element of the sensor is thermally deformed, the capsule ruptures and the active agent is released.

[0080] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0081] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0082] Figure 1 A and 1B illustrate an aerosol generation system according to the present invention, which includes an aerosol generation apparatus, an aerosol generation article, and a heating element;

[0083] Figure 2 The heating element is shown in more detail;

[0084] Figure 3 Another embodiment of a heating element including a support ring is shown;

[0085] Figure 4 A and 4B show Figure 1 Aerosol generation system, which includes, for example Figure 3 The support ring shown; and

[0086] Figure 5 A and 5B illustrate another embodiment of the heating element. Detailed Implementation

[0087] Figure 1 An aerosol generation system is shown. The aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation article 16. The aerosol generation device includes a heating element 10. The heating element 10 includes a plurality of sensors 12.

[0088] Each receptor 12 has an elongated shape. Each receptor 12 is made of a heat-deformable element in the form of a bimetallic strip. The bimetallic strip comprises a first material and a second material. The two materials have different coefficients of thermal expansion. The material with the lower coefficient of thermal expansion is arranged toward the interior of the cavity 14 formed by the receptor 12. The cavity 14 is formed as a hollow tubular arrangement.

[0089] The aerosol generating article 16 is configured to be received in the cavity 14. The aerosol generating article 16 can be inserted into the cavity 14. When the aerosol generating article 16 is inserted into the cavity 14, the heating element 10 surrounds a portion of the aerosol generating article 16. The portion of the aerosol generating article 16 surrounded by the heating element 10 can be heated by means of the heating element 10.

[0090] The portion of the aerosol generating article 16 surrounded by the heating element 10 is preferably configured as a matrix portion of the aerosol generating article 16 comprising an aerosol forming matrix. Furthermore, a ruptureable capsule can be disposed within the matrix portion of the aerosol generating article 16.

[0091] During the heating operation, the heating element 10 deforms. Heating the bimetallic strip facilitates this deformation. The heating of the bimetallic strip causes deformation. The sensor 12 is arranged such that the deformation is directed along the interior of the cavity 14. In this way, the aerosol-generating article 16 is securely held within the cavity 14 during the heating operation. Before and after the heating operation, the aerosol-generating article 16 can be easily inserted into and removed from the cavity 14.

[0092] To allow for the insertion and removal of the aerosol generating article 16, when the heating element 10 is not in operation, its inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article 16. During operation, the heating element 10 deforms and its inner diameter decreases. The reduced inner diameter of the heating element 10 is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article 16. Therefore, the heating element 10 is pressed against the aerosol generating article 16 during heating operation. Consequently, the aerosol generating article 16 is firmly held and heating efficiency is improved.

[0093] Figure 1 A power source in the form of a battery 18 is further shown for powering the heating element 10. The power supply from the battery 18 to the heating element 10 is controlled by a control circuit 20.

[0094] The aerosol generating device or heating element 10 includes an induction coil 22. Alternating current is supplied to the induction coil 22 to generate an alternating magnetic field. When subjected to this alternating magnetic field, the sensor 12 is heated. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, two induction coils 22 are provided, separated by a separator 24. The two induction coils 22 form two separate heating zones disposed along the longitudinal axis L of the cavity 14. A thermal insulation member 26 is disposed between the induction coils 22 and the sensor 12.

[0095] An air inlet 28 is provided to allow ambient air to flow into the cavity 14 for aerosol generation. The air inlet 28 is arranged adjacent to the base 30 of the cavity 14 to allow airflow to enter the cavity 14 through or adjacent to the base 30. The base 30 may include one or more orifices for allowing airflow through the base 30.

[0096] The aerosol generating apparatus includes a distal end 32 and a proximal end 34. An opening of a cavity 14 is disposed in the proximal end 34 of the aerosol generating apparatus. A sealing ring 36 is provided at the opening of the cavity 14. The sealing ring 36 is flexible and has a funnel shape. The sealing ring 36 allows for the insertion of an aerosol generating article 16. When the aerosol generating article 16 is inserted into the cavity 14, the sealing ring 36 seals the cavity 14.

[0097] Figure 2 The heating element 10 is shown in more detail. The heating element 10 includes a plurality of individual sensors 12. Each sensor 12 is elongated. The plurality of sensors 12 form a hollow tubular arrangement. The hollow tubular arrangement of sensors 12 is arranged in the cavity 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating article 16 is held by the hollow tubular arrangement of sensors 12.

[0098] Figure 3An embodiment of the heating element 10 is shown, wherein the ends of the sensors 12 are connected to each other by means of a support ring 38. The support ring 38 can be arranged adjacent to the opening of the cavity 14. The support ring 38 can connect the proximal ends 34s of the sensors 12.

[0099] The other end of the receptor 12 (the distal end 32s of the receptor 12) can be attached to the base 30.

[0100] exist Figure 4 The image shows a support ring 38 arranged with an opening adjacent to cavity 14.

[0101] Figure 5 The deformation of the heating element 10 during heating operation is shown. Figure 5 In diagram A, the heating element 10 is shown before the heating operation. In this state, the hollow tubular arrangement formed by the heating element 10 has straight sidewalls formed by individual sensors 12. Figure 5 In diagram B, the heating element 10 is shown during operation. The heating element 10 deforms. More specifically, the intermediate portion 40 of the individual sensor 12 deforms along the direction of the interior of the hollow tubular arrangement of the heating element 10. This action securely holds the aerosol-generating article 16 within the cavity 14 and improves heating efficiency due to the direct contact between the heated sensor 12 and the aerosol-generating article 16. The deformation of the heating element 10 also enables... Figure 1 A (Heating element 10 is not deformed) Figure 1 B (deformation of heating element 10) Figure 4 A (Heating element 10 is not deformed) and Figure 4 See B (deformation of heating element 10).

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: A cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, and A heating element, wherein the heating element is an induction heating element, wherein the heating element includes a sensor configured for heating, wherein the sensor includes a heat-deformable element, wherein the heat-deformable element is disposed in the cavity, wherein the heat-deformable element of the sensor is arranged as a plurality of elongated elements forming a hollow tubular arrangement having gaps between the elongated elements, and wherein the heat-deformable element is configured to thermally deform during heating operation to contact and retain the aerosol-generating article received in the cavity during heating operation.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heat-deformable element is made of bimetal.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heat-deformable element comprises a bimetallic strip.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sensor is made of bimetal.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sensor comprises a first material and a second material, wherein the first material has a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than the second material.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the first material and the second material are provided as layers adjacent to each other.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the plurality of elongated elements comprises a first end and an opposing second end, and one or both of the first ends of the plurality of elongated elements and the second ends of the plurality of elongated elements are connected to each other.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the plurality of elongated elements comprises a first end and an opposing second end, and one or both of the first ends of the plurality of elongated elements and the second ends of the plurality of elongated elements are connected to each other via a support ring.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first ends of the plurality of elongated elements are connected to each other via a support ring, and wherein the second ends of the plurality of elongated elements are fixed to the base of the cavity.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the base of the cavity is disposed at the distal end of the cavity, and the support ring is disposed at the proximal end of the cavity.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first material having a low coefficient of thermal expansion is arranged facing the cavity, and the second material is arranged away from the cavity.

12. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol forming matrix.

13. The aerosol generation system of claim 12, wherein the thermodeformable element of the sensor is arranged such that the aerosol generation article can be inserted into the cavity when the heating element is not operated, and wherein the thermodeformable element of the sensor is configured to thermally deform when the heating element is operated and thereby contact and retain the aerosol generation article in the cavity.

14. The aerosol generation system of claim 12 or 13, wherein the aerosol generation article comprises a capsule containing an active agent, and wherein the capsule is arranged adjacent to the thermodeformable element when the aerosol generation article is received in the cavity, such that when the heating element is operated and the thermodeformable element of the sensor is thermally deformed, the capsule is ruptured and the active agent is released.

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