Heater assembly for aerosol-generating system

Abstract

An aerosol-generating system (100) for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating system comprises a heating element (140). A receiving chamber (144) is at least partially defined by the heating element (140). A wicking element (120) is received in the receiving chamber (144). The receiving chamber (144) has a first configuration and a second configuration. An internal volume of the receiving chamber (144) when the receiving chamber (144) is in the first configuration is greater than when the receiving chamber (144) is in the second configuration. In the second configuration, the heating element (140) is in contact with the wicking element (120).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating system and methods of using and controlling the aerosol generating system. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating system comprising a wicking element received in a receiving chamber, the receiving chamber having a first configuration and a second configuration. Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generating systems configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate (such as a tobacco-containing substrate) are known in the art. Many known aerosol generating systems generate an aerosol by applying heat to the substrate by a heater assembly. In an electrically operated aerosol generating system, heat is applied to the substrate when the heater assembly is supplied with power from a power supply. The generated aerosol can then be inhaled by a user of the device.

[0003] In many aerosol generating devices, the heater element of the heater assembly is configured to heat a quantity of aerosol-forming substrate contained in a porous material, such as a wick or capillary element disposed adjacent to or in contact with the heater element. The porous material may carry the aerosol-forming substrate in liquid form from a reservoir disposed in the aerosol generating system. In this way, the aerosol-forming substrate vaporized in the vicinity of the heater element during use of the aerosol generating system is continuously replenished.

[0004] It is desirable to effectively heat the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the porous material to reduce the power requirements of the heater assembly. This is particularly important when the aerosol generating system is portable and includes a portable power source such as a battery. Heating of the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the porous material may be effective when there is direct contact between the porous material and the heater element. Examples of such heater assemblies include a resistive heating element in the form of a wire coil wound around a core. At least one end of the core extends into a reservoir of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0005] One problem with aerosol generating systems in which the heater element is in direct contact with a porous material such as a coil and core arrangement is that the porous material may degrade over the course of many heating cycles. The degradation may be caused by the heating of the porous material. The degradation may also be caused by chemical interactions between the aerosol-forming substrate and the porous material, mechanical stresses on the porous material, and accumulation of particles on the surface of the porous material. Degradation of the porous material may result in a lower efficiency of heat transfer between the heating element and the porous material and a lower efficiency of transfer of liquid from the reservoir toward the heater element through the porous material. Therefore, the porous material has a limited service life. The service life of the porous material is typically significantly shorter than the service life of other components of the aerosol generating system (e.g., the heater element). It is generally not possible to replace a degraded porous material without separating the system and the heater assembly. This is not something that the average consumer is able to do or is inclined to do.

[0006] Some aerosol generating systems include a reusable aerosol generating device and a disposable cartridge. The disposable cartridge includes an aerosol-forming substrate, and when the aerosol-forming substrate is exhausted, the cartridge can be replaced. Such cartridges may include a heater element and a porous material, for example the cartridge may include a coil and a core arrangement. In this case, when the aerosol-forming substrate of the cartridge is exhausted, the heater element and the porous material are disposed of together with the rest of the cartridge.

[0007] When the porous material is provided in a disposable cartridge, it will generally be disposed of and replaced before significant degradation occurs. However, including both the heater element and the porous material in the cartridge increases the material cost of the cartridge and the complexity of the cartridge.

[0008] More generally, high-speed manufacturing of heater elements and porous materials that are arranged together and in contact with each other is difficult, where at least some steps of the manufacturing process need to be performed by hand. In particular, high-speed manufacturing of coil and core type arrangements is difficult. This further increases the cost of manufacturing a cartridge including a heater element and a porous material. Summary of the invention

[0009] It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating system in which effective heating of an aerosol-forming substrate contained in a porous material is achieved during use. It is desirable to provide such a heater assembly in which degradation of components of the system, in particular the heater assembly and the porous material, is reduced compared to prior art systems, in particular compared to coil and wick arrangements. It is further desirable to provide an aerosol generating system in which the porous material is replaceable once it has degraded. In the context of an aerosol generating system comprising a disposable cartridge, it is desirable to provide an aerosol generating system in which the porous material is replaceable without increasing the cost and complexity of the cartridge.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating system for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating substrate is provided. The aerosol generating system may include a heating element. The aerosol generating system may include a receiving chamber. The receiving chamber may be at least partially defined by the heating element. The aerosol generating system may include a wicking element. The wicking element may be received in the receiving chamber.

[0011] The receiving chamber may have a first configuration. The receiving chamber may have a second configuration. When the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the internal volume of the receiving chamber may be larger than when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration. In the second configuration, the heating element may be in contact with the wicking element.

[0012] The receiving chamber having the first configuration and the second configuration can advantageously provide a simple and effective means by which the heating element can be coupled or decoupled with the wicking element. By providing two configurations in this way, the heating element need not always be in contact with the wicking element.

[0013] When the receiving chamber is in the second configuration, the contact between the heating element and the wicking element can advantageously provide effective heating of the wicking element by the heating element. When the receiving chamber is in the second configuration, the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the wicking element can be effectively heated. Effective heating can advantageously be achieved because the contact between the heating element and the wicking element allows heat conduction. In addition, the contact between the heating element and the wicking element can draw liquid from the wicking element to the heating element.

[0014] When the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the wicking element can be received and removed from the receiving chamber. When the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the larger internal volume of the receiving chamber can advantageously mean that the heating element is not in contact with the wicking element in the first configuration of the receiving chamber, so that the heating element is not connected to the wicking element and the wicking element is removable. Therefore, the wicking element can advantageously be replaceable. Preferably, the wicking element can be replaced when it deteriorates. In particular, when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the wicking element can advantageously be replaceable without the need to disassemble the aerosol generating system.

[0015] Providing a heater assembly that can be coupled and decoupled from the wicking element can advantageously reduce degradation of at least one of the heating element and the wicking element received in the receiving chamber.

[0016] Deterioration of the heating element and the wicking element may be caused by contact between the at least one heating element and the wicking element received in the receiving chamber of the heater assembly. A heater assembly including a receiving chamber having a first configuration and a second configuration may allow for reduced contact between the at least one heating element and the wicking element received in the receiving chamber compared to a heater assembly in which there is permanent contact between the heating element and the wicking element. This may reduce degradation of the wicking element.

[0017] For example, the receiving chamber can be placed in the second configuration during use of the aerosol generating system only when the heating element is used to heat the wicking element. Otherwise, the receiving chamber can be placed in the first configuration. In this way, the heating element can only contact the wicking element during the heating of the wicking element to ensure that effective heating of the wicking element is achieved. This can significantly reduce the length of time that there is contact between the heating element and the wicking element. This can advantageously extend the life of the wicking element.

[0018] The aerosol generating system may include a reservoir. The reservoir may contain an aerosol-forming substrate in condensed form. The wicking element may be coupled to the reservoir to be in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate in the reservoir.

[0019] The aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating device.The aerosol generating device may comprise a heating element.The aerosol generating device may comprise a receiving chamber.

[0020] The aerosol generating device may comprise a wicking element.

[0021] The heating element may be movable or deformable to reduce the internal volume of the receiving chamber in the second configuration relative to the first configuration. The heating element may be movable or deformable to the second configuration relative to the first configuration so as to contact the wicking element.

[0022] The aerosol generating system may include an actuator. The actuator may be configured to move or deform the heating element for transition of the receiving chamber from a first configuration to a second configuration. The actuator may be configured to move or deform the heating element to reversibly configure the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0023] The receiving chamber may be configured such that the wicking element may be inserted and removed from the receiving chamber along a longitudinal direction.The longitudinal direction may define a central axis through the receiving chamber.

[0024] At least a first portion of the heating element may be closer to the central axis in the second configuration than in the first orientation.

[0025] When the heating element moves or deforms, at least a first component of the movement of the first portion of the heating element may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The actuator may be configured so that when the receiving chamber transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration, the first component of the movement of the first portion of the heating element may be toward the central axis.

[0026] The heating element may include a second portion that is different from the first portion. In the second configuration of the receiving chamber, the second portion of the heating element may not be in contact with the wicking element.

[0027] The second part of the heating element may comprise or consist of a material having a lower resistivity than the material of the first part of the heating element. Providing such a material may advantageously enable the second part of the heating element to have a lower resistance per unit length than the first part of the heating element. The second part of the heating element may comprise a coating. The coating may comprise a material having a lower resistivity than the material of the first part of the heating element.

[0028] The second portion of the heating element may have a larger cross-sectional area than the first portion. This may advantageously enable the second portion of the heating element to have a lower resistance per unit length than the first portion of the heating element. In this case, the second portion of the heating element may be composed of the same material or materials as the first portion of the heating element.

[0029] In the first configuration, the receiving chamber can be configured so that the wicking element can be freely removed or can be freely received in the receiving chamber. This can be achieved by the heating element not contacting the wicking element received in the receiving chamber when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration.

[0030] In a second configuration, the receiving chamber may be configured to exert a retaining force on the wicking element. The retaining force may be exerted at least in part by the heating element. The retaining force may advantageously ensure that there is contact between the heating element and the wicking element to provide effective heating.

[0031] The heating element may comprise or consist of an elastic material. This may be particularly advantageous when the heating element is deformable to reduce the internal volume of the receiving chamber. The heating element may be deformed in the second configuration relative to the first configuration. A heating element comprising or consisting of an elastic material may advantageously return to the shape of the first configuration when released from the second configuration.

[0032] When the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the internal volume of the receiving chamber can be at least 5% larger, preferably at least 10% larger, preferably at least 15% larger, preferably at least 20% larger, even more preferably at least 30% larger, even more preferably at least 50% larger than when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration.

[0033] Preferably, at least in the first configuration, the receiving chamber has an axisymmetric shape. The axis of symmetry of the axisymmetric shape is preferably a central axis parallel to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the receiving chamber is cylindrical in at least the first configuration.

[0034] In the second configuration, the receiving chamber may have an axisymmetric shape. The axis of symmetry of the axisymmetric shape is preferably a central axis parallel to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the receiving chamber is cylindrical in the second configuration.

[0035] At least in the first configuration, the receiving chamber may have a width of between 1 and 12 mm, preferably between 3 and 7 mm. If the receiving chamber is cylindrical, the value of the width corresponds to the value of the diameter of the cylindrical chamber.

[0036] When the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the cross-sectional dimension of the receiving chamber may be larger than when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration. The cross-sectional dimension may be the cross-sectional area or width of the cross section of the receiving chamber. When the receiving chamber is cylindrical, the cross-sectional dimension may be the diameter or radius of the receiving chamber.

[0037] The cross-sectional dimension may be the dimension of a cross section of the receiving chamber perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0038] The heating element may include a coil. The coil may be wound around a central axis. The receiving chamber may be at least partially defined by the coil.

[0039] The coil may have a resistance between 0.4 ohms and 4 ohms.

[0040] The coil may be formed by a coil of wire. The wire may have a diameter between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, preferably between 0.2 mm and 0.5 mm. The length of the wire may be between 10 mm and 150 mm, preferably between 20 mm and 50 mm.

[0041] The cross-sectional dimension may be the dimension of a cross section of the receiving chamber perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0042] The heating element may include a coil. The coil may be wound around a central axis. The receiving chamber may be at least partially defined by the coil.

[0043] The coil may have a resistance between 0.4 ohms and 4 ohms.

[0044] The coil may be formed by a coil of wire. The wire may have a diameter between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, preferably between 0.2 mm and 0.5 mm. The length of the wire may be between 10 mm and 150 mm, preferably between 20 mm and 50 mm.

[0045] The first end and the second end of the heating element may further comprise or form one or more contact portions.The first end and the second end of the heating element may not be in the shape of a coil.

[0046] The first and second contact portions may advantageously be mechanically connected or connectable to an actuation device.The actuation device may be configured to deform the heating element by manipulating said first and second contact portions.

[0047] Preferably, the first contact portion and the second contact portion are electrical contacts. The first heater element may advantageously be connected to a power source via the first electrical contact portion and the second electrical contact portion. The power source may be external to the heater assembly. For example, an aerosol generating device comprising a heater assembly may further comprise a power source.

[0048] The first end of the heating element can be moved relative to the second end of the heating element to reduce the internal volume of the receiving chamber in the second configuration relative to the first configuration. Preferably, the first end of the heating element can be rotated relative to the second end of the heating element to reduce the internal volume of the receiving chamber in the second configuration relative to the first configuration. The first end of the heating element can be rotated about the central axis relative to the second end of the heating element.

[0049] The receiving chamber may be at least partially defined by a coil of the heating element. Rotation of the first end relative to the second end of the heater element may deform the coil.

[0050] The coil may be a helical coil. The helical coil may be axially symmetrical about a helical axis. The helical axis may be parallel to the central axis. The helical axis may preferably be the central axis. The helical coil may have a circular cross-section.

[0051] When the coil is in the first configuration, the diameter of the coil may be larger than when the coil is in the second configuration.The cross-section of the coil may be a cross-section perpendicular to the helical axis of the coil.

[0052] When the coil is in the first configuration, the pitch of the coil may be greater than when the coil is in the second configuration.

[0053] As used herein, the "pitch" of a helical coil is the length of one complete helical turn measured along the helical axis of the helical coil.

[0054] When the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the total number of turns of the coil may be smaller than when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration. Between the first configuration and the second configuration of the receiving chamber, the total number of turns of the coil may increase by a non-integer number of turns. Between the first configuration and the second configuration of the receiving chamber, the total number of turns may increase by a fraction of a turn.

[0055] When the coil is in the first configuration, the number of turns per unit length of the coil may be smaller than when the coil is in the second configuration.

[0056] When the coil is in the first configuration, the length of the coil can be substantially the same as when the coil is in the second configuration. In other words, when the receiving chamber is in both the first configuration and the second configuration, the distance along the central axis between the first end and the second end of the coil can be substantially the same.

[0057] The actuator of the aerosol generating system may be configured to move or rotate the first end of the coil relative to the second end of the coil for transition of the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration. Preferably, the actuator may be configured to move or rotate the first contact portion and the second contact portion of the heating element, which in turn causes movement or rotation of the first end and the second end of the coil connected to the first contact portion and the second contact portion, respectively.

[0058] The helical coil may be a left-handed helical coil or a right-handed helical coil. As used herein, the length along the central axis in the direction from the first end to the second end of the heating element defines whether the helical coil is "left-handed" or "right-handed".

[0059] When the helical coil is left-handed, the actuator can be configured to rotate the first end of the coil in a clockwise direction relative to the second end of the coil for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration. The actuator can additionally or alternatively be configured to rotate the second end of the coil in a counterclockwise direction relative to the first end of the coil for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0060] When the spiral coil is right-handed, the actuator can be configured to rotate the first end of the coil in a counterclockwise direction relative to the second end of the coil for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration. The actuator can additionally or alternatively be configured to rotate the second end of the coil in a clockwise direction relative to the first end of the coil for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration. This increases the number of turns (although the increase may be less than one full turn).

[0061] The heating element may include a space configured to allow air to pass through the heating element at least when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration. The space may advantageously allow vaporized aerosol-forming substrate to escape the wicking element received in the receiving chamber during use of the heater assembly. When the heating element is a spiral coil, the space may be defined between consecutive turns of the spiral coil at least when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration.

[0062] The aerosol generating system may comprise a housing. The heating element may be at least partially contained within the housing. At least a portion of the heating element may be surrounded by the housing. The housing may form a hollow body that contains at least a portion of the heating element. The heating element may be completely contained within the housing.

[0063] The actuator may include a user interface element and an actuation mechanism.The actuation mechanism may be configured to actuate the receiving chamber between a first configuration and a second configuration in response to an input on the user interface element.

[0064] The actuating mechanism may be configured to convert the motion of the user interface during input so that the heating element moves or deforms. Preferably, the user interface may move between a first position and a second position. The actuating mechanism may be configured so that the movement of the user interface from the first position to the second position causes the receiving chamber to be transformed from the first configuration to the second configuration. The actuating mechanism may further be configured so that the movement of the user interface from the second position to the first position causes the receiving chamber to be transformed from the second configuration to the first configuration.

[0065] The actuating mechanism may comprise a portion of a housing. The housing may comprise a first portion and a second portion. At least the first portion of the housing may form a user interface element. The first portion of the housing may be movable relative to the second portion. Preferably, the first portion of the housing may be rotatable relative to the second portion. Even more preferably, the first portion of the housing may be rotatable relative to the second portion about a central axis. Advantageously, the rotation of the first portion of the housing relative to the second portion of the housing may cause the heating element to move or deform for the transition of the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0066] Alternatively, the actuator may be electrically operated and controlled by a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to control the actuator as required for the transition of the receiving chamber from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position. For example, at the beginning of the use process of the device, the user may activate the system. Activation may include the user pressing a button or other user interface element of the device. Activation may alternatively include the user sucking air through the mouthpiece of the system, which may be detected by the puff detector arrangement. The control circuit may be configured to cause the receiving chamber to transition from the first position to the second position when the device is activated. The control circuit may also be configured to supply power to the heater assembly.

[0067] The control circuitry may be configured to cause the receiving chamber to transition from the second position to the first position at the end of a use session or when the device is otherwise deactivated.

[0068] As described above, the heating element may include a coil wound around a central axis and further including a first end and a second end, wherein the coil is defined between the first end and the second end. The first end of the coil may be joined to the first portion of the housing. Preferably, the first end of the heating element may be permanently fixed to the first portion of the housing. The second end of the heating element may be joined to the second portion of the housing. Preferably, the second end of the heating element may be permanently fixed to the second portion of the housing.

[0069] The coil is joined or permanently fixed to the housing at the first and second ends to advantageously constrain the heating element so that the rotation of the first portion of the housing relative to the second portion deforms the heating element to reduce the internal volume. This may be because the rotational motion of the first portion of the housing relative to the second portion of the housing can be transmitted to the first heating element so that the first end of the heating element rotates relative to the second end of the heating element for the conversion of the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration. In addition, in both the first configuration and the second configuration, the distance of the first end of the heating element relative to the second end of the heating element along the central axis can remain substantially constant. Therefore, the length of the coil can remain substantially constant in both the first configuration and the second configuration. Therefore, the rotation of the two ends of the heating element relative to each other can change the diameter, pitch, and number of turns per unit length of the spiral coil.

[0070] Whether rotation of the housing transitions the receiving chamber between the first and second configurations will depend on whether the coil is left-handed or right-handed and the direction of rotation of the first portion of the housing relative to the second portion of the housing.

[0071] Preferably, the coil may not be joined or fixed to the housing except at the first and second ends. In this way, the coil may advantageously be free to deform between the first and second ends.

[0072] In a first configuration, the coil of the heating element may be in contact with the housing along the length of the coil.

[0073] In the second configuration, the coil of the heating element may not be in contact with the housing. In the second configuration, the heating element may not be in contact with the housing except at the first end and the second end.

[0074] The air flow path may be defined between the housing and the heating element at least when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration. The receiving chamber may be at least partially defined by a first side of the heating element. The air flow path may be at least partially defined on a second side of the heating element opposite to the first side at least when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration.

[0075] At least when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration, an aerosol generating chamber may be defined between the heating element housing and the heating element.Thus, the heater assembly may comprise a heating chamber comprising the receiving chamber and the aerosol generating chamber.

[0076] When the heating element comprises a coil, the receiving chamber may be defined on an inner surface of the coil. Thus, if the coil is a helical coil having a cylindrical cross-section, the receiving chamber may also be cylindrical. The air flow path may be at least partially defined on an outer surface of the coil opposite to the inner surface of the coil, at least when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration.

[0077] In an alternative embodiment, the heating element may comprise a planar portion.A normal to the plane of the planar portion may be perpendicular to at least one of the longitudinal direction or the central axis.

[0078] The planar portion may be in the form of a sheet. The heating element may be fluid permeable. The heating element may comprise a plurality of conductive filaments, a mesh or a sheet comprising a plurality of holes.

[0079] The heating element including the planar portion may be movable to reduce an internal volume of the receiving chamber in a second configuration relative to a first configuration.The heating element may be movable in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction along which the wicking element may be received in the receiving chamber.

[0080] The heater assembly may include an actuator. The actuator may be configured to move the heating element for transition of the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0081] The heater assembly has been described as including a heating element. Thus, the heater assembly may include additional heating elements. For example, the heater assembly may include a second heating element. The heater assembly may include a third heating element. The heater assembly may include a fourth heating element.

[0082] Each of the heating elements may have features corresponding to the features of the heating element. For example, when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration, each of the heating elements may be in contact with the wicking element. Each of the heating elements may be movable or deformable to reduce the internal volume of the receiving chamber in the second configuration relative to the first configuration. The actuator of the aerosol generating system may be configured to move or deform each of the heating elements for transition of the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0083] When the heating element comprises a coil, one or more of the further heating elements may also comprise a coil having features corresponding to the coil of the heating element. For example, one or more further heating elements may each comprise a coil, a first end and a second end. Each coil may be a spiral coil.

[0084] In other words, the heater assembly may include multiple coils.

[0085] The helical axis of each of the plurality of coils may be parallel to each other.The helical axis of each of the plurality of coils may be the central axis.

[0086] One or more coils of the plurality of coils may overlap another coil.

[0087] The plurality of coils may be distributed along the central axis.The plurality of coils may be spaced apart along the length of the central axis.

[0088] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" is used to describe a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the aerosol-generating article is a cartridge.

[0089] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" means a substrate consisting of or comprising an aerosol-forming material which is capable of releasing volatile compounds to generate an aerosol when heated.

[0090] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming material" refers to a material that is capable of releasing volatile compounds to generate an aerosol when heated. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise or consist of an aerosol-forming material.

[0091] The aerosol generating system may include a power source. The aerosol generating device may include a power source. The power source may be housed within a device housing. The power source may be electrically connected to at least the first heating element. When the heating element comprises a coil wound around a central axis and a first end and a second end, the power source may be connected or connectable to electrical contacts fixed to the first end and the second end.

[0092] The power supply can be a DC power supply having a DC power supply voltage in the range of about 2.5 volts to about 4.5 volts and a DC power supply current in the range of about 1 ampere to about 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power supply in the range of about 2.5 watts to about 45 watts). The power supply can be a battery, such as a rechargeable lithium ion battery. Alternatively, the power supply can be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power supply can be rechargeable. The power supply has a capacity that allows storage of enough energy for the aerosol generating device to be used once or multiple times. For example, the power supply can have sufficient capacity to allow continuous generation of aerosol for a period of about six minutes, corresponding to the typical time spent smoking a conventional cigarette, or for a period of multiple six minutes. In another example, the power supply can have sufficient capacity to allow a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activation.

[0093] The heating element may be a resistive heating element. The heating element may include a resistive material. Suitable resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically "conductive" ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics.

[0094] The power supply may be configured to supply electric current to the resistive heating element in use.

[0095] An aerosol generating device comprising a resistive heating element may be described as a resistively heated aerosol generating device.

[0096] Alternatively, the aerosol generating device may be an induction heating aerosol generating device. The induction heating aerosol generating device may include an inductor coil. The inductor coil may be connected or connectable to a power source.

[0097] When the aerosol generating device comprises an inductor coil, the aerosol generating device may be configured to supply an alternating current to the inductor coil. The alternating current may have any suitable frequency. The alternating current may preferably be a high frequency alternating current. The alternating current may have a frequency between 100 kilohertz (kHz) and 30 megahertz (MHz). In use, the alternating current supplied to the inductor coil may generate a varying magnetic field.

[0098] When the power supply is configured to supply alternating current, the aerosol generating device may advantageously include a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting DC current supplied by the DC power supply into alternating current. The DC / AC converter may include a class D or class E power amplifier. The power supply may be configured to provide alternating current.

[0099] The inductor coil may surround or be adjacent to at least a first heating element of the heater assembly. In this case, the heating element may be a susceptor element.

[0100] As used herein, a "susceptor" or "susceptor element" refers to a conductive element that heats up when subjected to the changing magnetic field generated by the inductor coil. This may be the result of eddy currents or hysteresis losses (or both eddy currents and hysteresis losses) induced in the susceptor element. Possible materials for susceptors include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, and nearly any other conductive element.

[0101] The aerosol generating device may include a controller. The controller may be a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application specific integrated chip (ASIC) or other electronic control circuit. The controller may be configured to regulate the power supply from the power supply to the heater assembly.

[0102] The wicking element can have a fibrous or spongy structure. The wicking element preferably includes a bundle of capillaries. For example, the wicking element can include a plurality of fibers or lines or other fine-pore tubes. The fibers or lines can be substantially aligned to deliver the liquid to the heater. Alternatively, the wicking element can include a spongy or foamy material. The structure of the wicking element can form a plurality of small openings or tubules, and the liquid can be transported through these small openings or tubules by capillary action. The wicking element can include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials are sponges or foam materials, ceramic-based or graphite-based materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamed metals or plastic materials, for example, fibrous materials made by spinning or extruding fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester or bonded polyolefins, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramics. The wicking element can have any suitable capillary action and porosity, so as to be used with different liquid physical properties. Liquids have physical properties, including but not limited to viscosity, surface tension, density, thermal conductivity, boiling point, and vapor pressure, that allow the liquid to be transported through a capillary device by capillary action.

[0103] Preferably, the wicking element may be a ceramic core. The ceramic core may include or preferably consist of a ceramic material. Preferably, when the wicking element is a ceramic core, the wicking element may include a porous ceramic. The porous ceramic core may include an open-cell porous ceramic. The ceramic core may be rigid. The ceramic core may not deform when the chamber is in the second configuration.

[0104] Preferably, the wicking element may comprise or consist of an elastic material.Such a wicking element may advantageously return to its original shape after being compressed.

[0105] The aerosol generating system may comprise a cartridge. The cartridge may be removably coupled to the aerosol generating device. The cartridge may comprise a cartridge housing. The cartridge housing may define a reservoir containing the aerosol-forming substrate in condensed form.

[0106] When the cartridge is not coupled to the aerosol generating device, the wicking element may be received or removed from the receiving chamber.When the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device, the wicking element may be completely surrounded by the aerosol generating device and the cartridge.

[0107] The cartridge according to the present disclosure may advantageously be easy to manufacture and have low material cost. The cartridge may not include a heating element. The cartridge may not include a heating element at all. The cartridge may not include a wicking element. Therefore, the material cost and complexity of the cartridge according to the present disclosure may be lower than prior art cartridges that include both a heating element and a porous material, such as cartridges that include a coil and core type arrangement.

[0108] The aerosol-forming substrate contained in the cartridge is a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. The volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can be solid or liquid, or include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate can be a gel. The gel can be solid at room temperature. In this context, "solid" means that the gel has a stable size and shape and does not flow. In this context, room temperature means 25 degrees Celsius.

[0109] Preferably, the second aerosol-forming substrate is a liquid.

[0110] The aerosol-forming substrate may include plant-based materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may include tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate when heated. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate may alternatively include a tobacco-free material.

[0111] The aerosol-forming matrix may include at least one aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol-forming agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that is conducive to forming a dense and stable aerosol in use and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the system. Suitable aerosol-forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol-forming agents are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol and most preferably glycerol. The aerosol-forming matrix may include other additives and ingredients, such as flavoring agents.

[0112] The aerosol-forming substrate may be adsorbed, coated, impregnated or otherwise loaded onto a carrier or support. The carrier or support may be separate from the wicking element.

[0113] The aerosol-forming substrate may be contained in a reservoir. The reservoir may be of any suitable shape and size, depending on the requirements of the aerosol generating system.

[0114] When the cartridge is coupled to an aerosol generating device, the wicking element may be in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate in the reservoir.

[0115] The cartridge may include an opening. The opening may be an opening in the cartridge housing. When the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device, the opening may be aligned with the wicking element. When the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device, a portion of the wicking element may be received through the opening.

[0116] When the cartridge is coupled to an aerosol generating device, the wicking element may be in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate in the reservoir via the opening.Thus, the wicking element may advantageously transport the aerosol-forming substrate from the reservoir to the heating element.

[0117] When the wicking element is received in the receiving chamber, at least a first portion of the wicking element may extend beyond the receiving chamber.When the wicking element is received in the receiving chamber, the first portion of the wicking element may extend beyond the housing of the aerosol generating device.

[0118] When the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device, the first portion of the wicking element may be received adjacent to or through the opening of the cartridge housing.

[0119] If the first portion of the wicking element is received through the opening of the cartridge when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device, the first portion of the wicking element may be received in the reservoir of the cartridge.

[0120] The reservoir may include a carrier or support containing an aerosol-forming substrate. When the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device, the wicking element may contact the carrier or support of the reservoir. Thus, the aerosol-forming substrate may be transported from the carrier or support to the wicking element.

[0121] The cartridge may include a seal across the opening. The seal may be removed prior to use of the cartridge. Alternatively, the seal may be a breakable seal. The seal may advantageously prevent the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the reservoir from being exposed to air. The sealed reservoir may also prevent the aerosol-forming substrate from leaking during transportation of the cartridge.

[0122] The portion of the wicking element received in the receiving chamber may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the receiving chamber of the heater assembly in which the wicking element is configured to be received. Preferably, the wicking element has an axisymmetric shape. Preferably, the wicking element is cylindrical.

[0123] The portion of the wicking element received in the receiving chamber may have a length between 3 and 15 mm, preferably between 5 and 10 mm.

[0124] The wicking element may have a width of between 1 and 12 mm, preferably between 3 and 7 mm.If the wicking element is cylindrical, the value of the width corresponds to the value of the diameter of the cylindrical wicking element.

[0125] The aerosol generating device may comprise one or more engagement members. The one or more engagement members may be configured to engage corresponding engagement members of the cartridge. The one or more engagement members may be configured such that the aerosol generating device is configured to engage the cartridge by rotating the aerosol generating device relative to the cartridge.

[0126] The one or more engagement members of the aerosol generating device may comprise one or more projections configured to be received in one or more corresponding slots of the barrel.

[0127] Alternatively or additionally, one or more engagement members of the aerosol generating device may comprise one or more slots configured to receive one or more corresponding projections of the cartridge.

[0128] The one or more engagement members may be configured such that when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration, the aerosol generating device is engaged to the cartridge. The one or more engagement members may be configured to prevent the heating element housing from disengaging from the cartridge when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration. This may prevent damage to the heating element or wicking element.

[0129] The aerosol generating system may comprise an air flow path extending between an air inlet and an air outlet.

[0130] The barrel may include a mouthpiece portion. The mouthpiece portion may be provided on the end of the barrel opposite to the opening.

[0131] The air outlet may be formed in the mouthpiece portion of the tube. Therefore, the user of the tube can draw air through the air flow path by inhaling through the mouthpiece portion.

[0132] At least a portion of the air flow path may extend through the reservoir portion. At least a portion of the air flow path extending through the reservoir portion may be annular in shape. The portion of the air flow path extending through the reservoir portion may be defined by the cartridge housing.

[0133] At least a portion of the air flow path may be defined by the outer surface of the wicking element.Thus, vapour generated by heating the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the wick may be released directly into the air flowing through the air flow path.

[0134] When the heating element comprises a coil between a first end and a second end, the actuator of the aerosol generating system may be configured to move or rotate the first end of the coil relative to the second end of the coil for transition of the receiving chamber from the first configuration or the second configuration to the third configuration. Preferably, the actuator may be configured to move or rotate the first contact portion and the second contact portion of the heating element.

[0135] When the helical coil is left-handed, the actuator can be configured to rotate the first end of the heating element in a clockwise direction relative to the second end of the heating element for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration or the second configuration to the third configuration. The actuator can additionally or alternatively be configured to rotate the second end of the heating element in a counterclockwise direction relative to the first end of the coil for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration or the second configuration to the third configuration.

[0136] When the helical coil is right-handed, the actuator can be configured to rotate the first end of the heating element in a counterclockwise direction relative to the second end of the heating element for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration or the second configuration to the third configuration. The actuator can additionally or alternatively be configured to rotate the second end of the heating element in a clockwise direction relative to the first end of the heating element for receiving the transition of the chamber from the first configuration or the second configuration to the third configuration.

[0137] As described above, the actuator can be electrically operated and controlled by a control circuit. The control circuit can be configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the third configuration before the receiving chamber is actuated to the second configuration. As described above, this can force the aerosol-forming substrate to come out of the wicking element. The control circuit can be configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the third configuration before supplying power to the heater assembly to heat the aerosol-forming substrate or at the beginning of the use process. As described above, this can increase the amount of aerosol generated at the beginning of the suction. The control circuit is configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the third configuration at the end of the use process. As described above, this can advantageously reduce or minimize cross contamination.

[0138] The control circuit may be configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the third configuration to the second configuration after actuating the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the third configuration.This may be particularly advantageous at the beginning of a use process.

[0139] The control circuit can be configured to then actuate the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the third configuration and back to the second configuration. This can advantageously pump the wicking element, as described above. The control circuit can be configured to repeatedly actuate the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the third configuration and back to the second configuration multiple times.

[0140] The control circuit may be configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the third configuration to the first configuration after actuating the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the third configuration. This may be particularly advantageous at the end of a use process.

[0141] According to a second aspect, there is provided a method of using an aerosol generating system as defined in the first aspect. The method may comprise configuring the receiving chamber into a second configuration. The method may comprise supplying power to a heating element to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0142] The step of configuring the receiving chamber to the second configuration may be performed before the step of supplying power to the heating element.

[0143] The step of configuring the receiving chamber to the second configuration may include transitioning the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0144] The method may include transitioning the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the first configuration after the step of supplying power to the heating element.

[0145] The method may comprise the step of coupling the aerosol generating device and the cartridge.The method may comprise the step of decoupling the aerosol generating device and the cartridge.

[0146] The method may include inserting the wicking element into the receiving chamber when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration. The method may include the step of decoupling the aerosol generating device and the cartridge before the step of inserting the wicking element into the receiving chamber. The method may include the step of coupling the aerosol generating device and the cartridge after the step of inserting the wicking element into the receiving chamber.

[0147] The method may include removing or replacing at least one of the wicking elements from the receiving chamber while the receiving chamber is in the first configuration.

[0148] The heating element may include a first end, a second end, and a coil wound around a central axis. The step of transforming the receiving chamber may include rotating the first end relative to the second end.

[0149] The method may include the step of configuring the receiving chamber into a third configuration.

[0150] The step of configuring the receiving chamber to the third configuration may comprise transitioning the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the third configuration. This may be prior to transitioning the receiving chamber to the second configuration. The step of transitioning the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the third configuration may be prior to or concurrently with the step of supplying power to the heating element to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0151] The method may include the step of repeatedly converting the receiving chamber from the third configuration to the second configuration and then back to the second configuration. This step may be repeated a plurality of times.

[0152] The step of configuring the receiving chamber to the third configuration may comprise transitioning the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the third configuration.This may be performed simultaneously with or after the step of supplying power to the heating element to generate the aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0153] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of controlling an aerosol generating system as defined in the first aspect. An aerosol generating device of the aerosol generating system may include an electrically operated actuator controlled by a control circuit. The method may include configuring the receiving chamber into a second configuration. The method may include supplying power to a heating element to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0154] The step of configuring the receiving chamber to the second configuration may be performed before the step of supplying power to the heating element.

[0155] The step of configuring the receiving chamber to the second configuration may include transitioning the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0156] The method may include transitioning the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the first configuration after the step of supplying power to the heating element.

[0157] The method may include the step of configuring the chamber to a third configuration. The step of configuring the chamber to the third configuration may include reconfiguring the chamber from the first configuration to the third configuration. This may be performed before reconfiguring the chamber to the second configuration. The step of reconfiguring the chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration may be performed before or simultaneously with the step of supplying power to the first heating element to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0158] The method may include the step of repeatedly reconfiguring the chamber from the third configuration to the second configuration and then back to the second configuration. This step may be repeated a plurality of times.

[0159] The step of configuring the chamber to the third configuration may comprise reconfiguring the chamber from the second configuration to the third configuration.This may be performed simultaneously with or after the step of supplying power to the first heating element to generate the aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0160] Features described in relation to one aspect may be applied to other aspects of the present disclosure. In particular, advantageous or optional features described in relation to the first aspect of the present disclosure may be applied to the second or third aspect of the present disclosure.

[0161] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

[0162] EX1. An aerosol generating system for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating substrate, the aerosol generating system comprising:

[0163] Heating elements;

[0164] a receiving chamber at least partially defined by the heating element;

[0165] a wicking element received in the receiving chamber; and

[0166] wherein the receiving chamber has a first configuration and a second configuration, and when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the internal volume of the receiving chamber is larger than when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration; and

[0167] Wherein, in the second configuration, the heating element is in contact with the wicking element.

[0168] EX2. An aerosol generating system according to example EX1, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises a reservoir containing the aerosol-forming substrate in condensed form.

[0169] EX3. The aerosol generating system according to example EX1 or EX2, further comprising an aerosol generating device and a cartridge, the aerosol generating device comprising the heating element, the receiving chamber and the wicking element.

[0170] EX4. An aerosol generating system according to Example EX3, wherein the device also includes a power source.

[0171] EX5. An aerosol generating system according to Example EX4, wherein the power source can be electrically connected to the heating element.

[0172] EX6. An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples EX3 to EX5, wherein the cartridge is removably coupled to the device.

[0173] EX7. An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples EX3 to EX6, comprising a reservoir containing the aerosol-forming substrate in condensed form, wherein the cartridge comprises a cartridge housing defining the reservoir.

[0174] EX8. An aerosol generating system according to example EX7, wherein the wicking element is in fluid communication with an aerosol-forming substrate in the reservoir when the cartridge is coupled to the device.

[0175] EX9. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples EX3 to EX8, wherein the cartridge further comprises a mouthpiece portion.

[0176] EX10. An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples EX3 to EX9, wherein the cartridge does not include a heating element.

[0177] EX11. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the heating element is not in contact with the wicking element in the disengaged position.

[0178] EX12. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the aerosol generating system further comprises an air flow path extending between an air inlet and an air outlet.

[0179] EX13. An aerosol generating system according to example EX12, wherein the aerosol generating system further comprises a heating element housing, and the heating element is at least partially housed within the heating element housing.

[0180] EX14. An aerosol generating system according to example EX13, wherein, at least when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration, a portion of the air flow path is defined between the heating element housing and the heating element.

[0181] EX15. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the receiving chamber further has a third structure, and wherein the internal volume of the receiving chamber is larger in both the first structure and the second structure than when the receiving chamber is in the third structure.

[0182] EX16. An aerosol generating system according to example EX15, wherein the internal volume of the receiving chamber is at least 10% larger than when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration.

[0183] EX17. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the wicking element is removable from the receiving chamber when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration.

[0184] EX18. The aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples further comprises an actuator configured to actuate the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0185] EX19. An aerosol generating system according to Example EX18, wherein the actuator is electrically operated and controlled by a control circuit.

[0186] EX20. The aerosol generating system according to example EX19 further comprises a power source, and wherein the electrically operated actuator is connected or connectable to the power source.

[0187] EX21. An aerosol generating system according to example EX19 or EX20, wherein the circuit is configured to operate the actuator to actuate the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0188] EX22. An aerosol generating system according to example EX21, wherein, upon activation of the system at the beginning of a use process, the circuit is configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0189] EX23. An aerosol generating system according to example EX22, wherein the circuit is further configured to supply power from the power source to the first heater element after activating the system at the beginning of a use process.

[0190] EX24. An aerosol generating system according to example EX23, wherein the circuit is configured to supply power to the first heater element after actuating the receiving chamber to the second configuration.

[0191] EX25. An aerosol generating system according to example EX23, wherein the circuit is configured to supply power to the first heater element before actuating the receiving chamber to the second configuration.

[0192] EX26. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples EX22 to EX25, wherein the actuator is further configured to actuate the receiving chamber to a third configuration, and the internal volume of the receiving chamber is larger in both the first configuration and the second configuration than when the receiving chamber is in the third configuration.

[0193] EX27. An aerosol generating system according to example EX26, wherein the circuit is configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the third configuration before actuating the receiving chamber to the second configuration.

[0194] EX28. An aerosol generating system according to example EX26 or EX27, wherein the circuit is configured to actuate the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the third configuration at the end of a use process.

[0195] EX29. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the heating element comprises a coil wound around a central axis.

[0196] EX30. An aerosol generating system according to example EX29, wherein the coil is deformable to reduce the internal volume of the receiving chamber in the second configuration relative to the first configuration.

[0197] EX31. An aerosol generating system according to example EX29 or EX30, wherein the heater assembly further comprises an actuator configured to deform the coil for transition of the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0198] EX32. An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples EX29 to EX31, wherein the wicking element is receivable in the receiving chamber in a direction parallel to the central axis.

[0199] EX33. An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples EX29 to EX32, wherein, in the second configuration of the receiving chamber, when the wicking element is received in the receiving chamber, at least a first portion of the coil contacts the wicking element.

[0200] EX34. An aerosol generating system according to example EX33, wherein the coil includes a second part different from the first part.

[0201] EX35. An aerosol generating system according to example EX34, wherein, in the second configuration of the receiving chamber, when the wicking element is received in the receiving chamber, the second portion of the coil does not contact the wicking element.

[0202] EX36. An aerosol generating system according to example EX34 or EX35, wherein the second portion of the coil comprises a coating material having a lower resistivity than the material of the first portion of the coil.

[0203] EX37. An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples EX34 to EX36, wherein the second portion of the coil has a larger cross-sectional dimension than the first portion.

[0204] EX38. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples EX29 to EX37, wherein the coil is a spiral coil.

[0205] EX39. An aerosol generating system according to Example EX38, wherein the spiral coil is axially symmetric.

[0206] EX40. An aerosol generating system according to example EX38 or EX39, wherein the spiral coil has a circular cross-section.

[0207] EX41. An aerosol generating system according to example EX40, wherein, when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, a diameter of the heating element is larger than when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration.

[0208] EX42. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples EX29 to EX41, wherein the heating element comprises a first end and a second end.

[0209] EX43. An aerosol generating system according to example EX42, wherein at least one of the first end and the second end of the heating element is not in the shape of a coil.

[0210] EX44. An aerosol generating system according to any of examples EX42 to EX43, wherein the first end is rotatable relative to the second end to reduce the internal volume of the receiving chamber in the second configuration relative to the first configuration.

[0211] EX45. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples EX42 to EX44, wherein the heater assembly further comprises an actuator configured to rotate the first end relative to the second end for transition of the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0212] EX46. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples EX29 to EX45, wherein the heating element is a spiral coil, and wherein when the receiving chamber is in the second structure, the number of turns per unit length of the heating element is greater than when the receiving chamber is in the first structure.

[0213] EX47. An aerosol generating system according to example EX46, wherein a distance along the central axis between a first end and a second end of the heating element is substantially the same when the receiving chamber is in both the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0214] EX48. An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples EX13 to EX47, wherein the heater assembly further comprises a user interface element configured to actuate the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0215] EX49. An aerosol generating system according to example EX48, wherein at least a first portion of the heating element housing forms the user interface element.

[0216] EX50. An aerosol generating system according to example EX49, wherein the heating element comprises a coil wound around a central axis, the coil comprising a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the heating element is fixed to a first portion of the heating element housing.

[0217] EX51. An aerosol generating system according to example EX50, wherein the heating element is not fixed to the first portion of the heating element housing except at the first end.

[0218] EX52. An aerosol generating system according to any of examples EX48 to EX51, wherein the heating element housing comprises a second portion, and wherein the first portion of the heating element housing is movable relative to the second portion of the heating element housing.

[0219] EX53. An aerosol generating system according to example EX52, wherein the first portion of the heating element housing is rotatable relative to the second portion of the housing.

[0220] EX54. An aerosol generating system according to example EX52 or EX53, wherein the heating element is a coil wound around a central axis, the coil comprising a first end and a second end, and the second end of the coil is fixed to the second portion of the heating element housing.

[0221] EX55. An aerosol generating system according to example EX54, wherein the heating element is not fixed to the second portion of the heating element housing except at the second end.

[0222] EX56. An aerosol generating system according to any one of examples EX52 to EX55, wherein the first portion and the second portion of the housing together form a hollow body, the hollow body accommodating at least a portion of the heating element.

[0223] EX57. A method of using an aerosol generating system as defined in any of the preceding examples, the method comprising:

[0224] configuring the receiving chamber into the second configuration;

[0225] Power is supplied to the first heating element to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0226] EX58. The method of example EX57, wherein the step of configuring the receiving chamber to the second configuration is performed before the step of supplying power to the heating element.

[0227] EX59. The method of example EX57 or EX58, wherein configuring the receiving chamber to the second configuration includes transitioning the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0228] EX60. The method of any one of Examples EX57 to EX59, further comprising reconfiguring the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the first configuration after the step of supplying power to the heating element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0229] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0230] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and a cartridge, the device comprising a wicking element;

[0231] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of an aerosol generating system of , wherein the cartridge is decoupled from the aerosol generating device;

[0232] Figure 3 for Figure 1 and 2 Schematic diagram of a first embodiment of an aerosol generating device in which the wicking element is removed from the receiving chamber.

[0233] Figure 4A and 4B for Figure 1 A perspective view of a resistive heating element and a wicking element of an aerosol generating system of Figure 4A In the embodiment, the resistive heating element is decoupled from the wicking element and in the embodiment Figure 4B wherein the resistive heating element is coupled to the wicking element;

[0234] Figure 5 for Figure 1 A perspective view of a heater assembly of an aerosol generating system without a wicking element;

[0235] Fig. 6A and 6B for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a heater assembly and wicking element of an aerosol generating system of Fig. 6A In the embodiment, the resistive heating element is decoupled from the wicking element and in the embodiment Figure 6B wherein the resistive heating element is coupled to the wicking element;

[0236] Figure 7 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a cartridge of an aerosol generating system;

[0237] Figure 8 To illustrate the use Figure 1 A flow chart of a method for an aerosol generating system;

[0238] Fig. 9is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of an aerosol generating system according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0239] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of an aerosol generating system 100. The aerosol generating system 100 comprises a cartridge 110. The cartridge 110 comprises a reservoir 112 containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 116. The reservoir 112 is defined by a cartridge housing 111. The cartridge 110 further comprises an internal passage 113. A portion of the internal passage 113 is annular. At one end, the cartridge 110 comprises a mouthpiece portion 114.

[0240] The aerosol generating system 100 also includes an aerosol generating device 150. The aerosol generating device 150 includes a controller 154 and a power source 156 in the form of a rechargeable battery. A device housing 152 of the aerosol generating device 150 houses both the controller 154 and the power source 156. The device housing 152 includes an air inlet 158, and a device air flow path 115 extending from the air inlet 158.

[0241] The aerosol generating device 150 also includes a heater assembly 130 .

[0242] The aerosol generating device 150 further comprises a wicking element 120. The wicking element 120 is cylindrical in shape.

[0243] The heater assembly 130 includes a resistive heating element 140 configured to heat the wicking element 120. The resistive heating element 140 is formed of a conductive material configured to increase in temperature when an electric current passes through it. The resistive heating element 140 includes a wire wound around a central axis to form a helical coil 141. The helical coil 141 of the resistive heating element 140 defines a receiving chamber 144.

[0244] The heater assembly chamber 144 defined by the helical coil 141 of the resistive heating element 140 has two configurations. In the first configuration, the resistive heating element 140 is not coupled to the wicking element 120. In the second configuration, the resistive heating element 140 is coupled to the wicking element 120. Figure 4A and 4B as well as Fig. 6A and 6B The interior volume of the heater assembly chamber 144 is larger in the first configuration than in the second configuration.

[0245] The first portion 121 of the wicking element 120 extends from the heater assembly chamber 144. The first portion 121 of the wicking element 120 includes a first end.

[0246] The second portion 122 of the wicking element 120 of the aerosol generating device 150 is received within the heater assembly chamber 144 and includes a second end opposite the first end of the wicking element.

[0247] exist Figure 1 , a wicking element 120 is shown in fluid contact with a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 116 in a reservoir 112 of a cartridge 110. In particular, a first end of the wicking element 120 is housed within the cartridge housing 111 and is in fluid communication with the reservoir 112. The wicking element 120 is receivable into the cartridge 110 along a longitudinal axis corresponding to the central axis and is removable from the cartridge.

[0248] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 The aerosol generating system 100 of the present invention is described above, but wherein the cartridge 110 has been decoupled from the aerosol generating device 150. In particular, the cartridge 110 has been decoupled from the heater assembly 130. Figure 2 The wicking element 120 of the aerosol generating device 150 in the cartridge 110 is no longer received in the cartridge 110. The first portion 121 of the wicking element 120 protrudes from the heater assembly 130.

[0249] The wicking element 120 can be received into the receiving chamber 144 along the central axis and can be removed from the receiving chamber. Figure 3 Show Figure 2 1 and 150, but wherein the wicking element 120 has been decoupled and removed from the aerosol generating device 150. In particular, the second portion 122 of the wicking element 120 has been decoupled and removed from the heater assembly chamber 144 of the heater assembly 130. To make it possible to remove the wicking element 120 from the heater assembly chamber 144, the heater assembly chamber 144 is placed in the first configuration.

[0250] Figure 4A and 4B Schematic diagram of a resistive heating element and a wicking element of a first embodiment of an aerosol generating system.

[0251] Figure 4A It is shown how the helical coil 141 of the resistive heating element 140 is formed from a wire wound around a central axis to form a helical coil. A heater assembly chamber 144 is defined by the helical coil 141 of the resistive heating element 140. The cylindrical wicking element 120 of the cartridge is received in the heater assembly chamber 140 so that a portion of the wicking element 120 is surrounded by the helical coil 141 of the resistive heating element 140 and is received by the heater assembly chamber 144 defined by the helical coil 141. A first portion of the wicking element 120 protrudes from the heater assembly chamber 144 defined by the helical coil 141. Figure 4A and 4BThe helical coil 141 shown in FIG. 1 is a left-handed helical coil, but the helical coil 141 may alternatively be a right-handed helical coil.

[0252] The heater assembly chamber 144 defined by the helical coil 141 has a first configuration and a second configuration. Figure 4A The heater assembly chamber 144 is shown in a first configuration. Figure 4B The heater assembly chamber 144 is shown in a second configuration. Figure 4A and 4B As shown in , the internal volume of the receiving chamber 144 defined by the spiral coil 141 is larger in the first configuration than in the second configuration. In particular, the cross-sectional area of ​​the heater assembly chamber 144 is larger in the first configuration than in the second configuration, but the length of the heater assembly chamber remains substantially constant. The cross-sectional area of ​​the heater assembly chamber 144 is a cross section of the receiving chamber taken perpendicular to the spiral axis of the spiral coil 141.

[0253] When the spiral coil is in the first configuration, the pitch of spiral coil 141 is greater than when the spiral coil is in the second configuration. When the spiral coil is in the first configuration, the number of turns per unit length of spiral coil 141 is less than when the spiral coil is in the second configuration. However, when the spiral coil is in the first configuration, the length of the spiral coil is substantially the same as when the spiral coil is in the second configuration.

[0254] When the heater assembly chamber is in the first configuration, as Figure 4A , the resistive heating element 140 is not in contact with the wicking element 120. In other words, the resistive heating element 140 is decoupled from the wicking element 120 and can freely receive or remove the wicking element 120 from the heater assembly chamber 144. When the heater assembly chamber 144 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. Figure 4B As shown in FIG. 1 , the resistive heating element 140 is in contact with the wicking element 120. In other words, the resistive heating element 140 is coupled to the wicking element 120.

[0255] like Figure 4A and 4B As shown in FIG. 1 , the resistive heating element 140 includes a first end 142 and a second end 143. The first end 142 and the second end 143 protrude perpendicularly to the central axis of the spiral coil 141. The first end 142 and the second end 143 include a material having a lower resistance per unit length than the material of the spiral coil 141. Therefore, when power is provided to the resistive heating element 140, the first end 142 and the second end 143 advantageously do not heat up as much as the spiral coil 141.

[0256] The heater assembly chamber 144 may be configured between the first configuration and the second configuration by deforming the resistive heating element 140. In particular, a first pair of relative rotational forces 148, represented by arrows at the first end 142 and the second end 143 of the resistive heating element 140, may be applied to the first end 142 and the second end 143 to reversibly deform the resistive heating element 140 so that the heater assembly chamber 144 may be transformed from the first configuration to the second configuration. A second pair of relative rotational forces acting in directions opposite to those in the first pair of relative rotational forces 148 may be applied to the first end 142 and the second end 143 to reversibly deform the resistive heating element 140 so that the heater assembly chamber 144 may be transformed from the second configuration to the first configuration.

[0257] Although Figure 4A and 4B It is shown how the relative rotational force 148 is applied to the first and second ends of the resistive heating element 140 to construct the receiving chamber 144, but it is possible for the receiving chamber to be transformed to apply the rotational force to only one of the first end 142 or the second end 143. The rotational force applied to only one of the ends of the resistive heating element 140 still causes one of the first end 142 or the second end 143 to rotate relative to the other.

[0258] like Figure 1 As shown in , the heater assembly 130 also includes an upper actuator element 132 and a lower actuator element 134. The upper actuator element 132 and the lower actuator element 134 together form a housing having a hollow body surrounding the heating element 140. Figure 5 , a heater assembly including an upper actuator element 132 and a lower actuator element 134 is shown separated from the rest of the aerosol generating system 100, which is a schematic perspective view. A first end 142 of a resistive heating element 140 is coupled to the upper actuator element 132. In particular, the first end 142 of the resistive heating element 140 passes through a hole defined in the upper actuator element 132. A second end 143 of the resistive heating element 140 is coupled to the lower actuator element 134. In particular, the second end 143 of the resistive heating element 140 passes through a hole defined in the lower actuator element 134.

[0259] The upper actuator element 132 is axially rotatable relative to the lower actuator element 134. In particular, the actuator element 132 is axially rotatable relative to the lower actuator element 134 about the helical axis of the heating element, which is determined by Figure 3By rotating the upper actuator element 132 relative to the lower actuator element 134, the first end 142 of the resistive heating element 140 rotates relative to the second end 143 to elastically deform the resistive heating element 140 and transform the receiving chamber 144 between the first configuration and the second configuration. The rotational forces applied to the upper actuator element 132 and the lower actuator element 134 for transforming the receiving chamber 144 between the first configuration and the second configuration are shown by arrows 192 and 194, respectively. Although Figure 3 Both the lower actuator element 134 and the upper actuator element 132 are shown as being rotatable, but it is sufficient that only one actuator element is rotatable relative to the other.

[0260] Fig. 6A Show Figure 5 144, but with the wicking element 120 received in the heater assembly chamber 144. Fig. 6A In the embodiment, the heater assembly chamber 144 is in the first configuration. The upper actuator element 132 and the lower actuator element 134 surround the resistive heating element 140. The second end portion 143 protrudes from the lower actuator element 134. Fig. 6A It is a cross-sectional view, so only the second end portion 143 is visible.

[0261] Figure 6B The heater assembly is shown with the heater assembly chamber 144 in a second configuration. Figure 4B 14, the wicking element 120 is received in the heater assembly chamber in the second configuration 146, and the resistive heating element 140 contacts the wicking element 120. An air flow path 147 is defined by the annular space between the spiral coil 141 and the lower actuator element 134, and then between the spiral coil 141 and the upper actuator element 132. The annular space between the spiral coil 141 and the lower actuator element 134, and then between the spiral coil 141 and the upper actuator element 132, itself defines an aerosol generation chamber, in which aerosol is first generated and then delivered to the user.

[0262] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a cartridge 110 separated from an aerosol generating device is shown. A cavity 301 is defined by an inner wall 303. The cavity 301 is approximately cylindrical. The cavity 301 includes a first circular opening at the end of the cartridge distal to the mouthpiece 114. The cavity 301 includes a second circular opening to a reservoir 112, which is diametrically opposite to the first circular opening. The inner wall 303 is integrally formed with the cartridge housing 111. The reservoir 112 is defined by the cartridge housing 111. The internal passage 113 is defined by the cartridge housing 111 and the wicking element wall 303.

[0263] The cartridge 110 is configured such that when the cartridge 110 is coupled to the aerosol generating device 150, the first portion 121 of the wicking element 120 is received in the cavity 301 of the cartridge 110. The first portion 121 of the wicking element 120 is received in the cavity 301 through the first circular opening. The cartridge 110 is configured such that when the wicking element 120 is received in the cavity 301 of the cartridge 110, the first end of the wicking element 120 is in fluid communication with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 116 contained in the reservoir 112.

[0264] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a first method of using the aerosol generating system 100 is shown. The method includes step 801 of receiving the wicking element 120 in the heater assembly chamber 144 in a first configuration. As described above, in the first configuration, the wicking element 120 is freely received and removed from the resistive heating element 140 in the first configuration, and the wicking element 120 and the resistive heating element 140 are not coupled. Therefore, when the heater assembly chamber 144 is in the first configuration, it is easy to receive the wicking element 120 in the heater assembly chamber 144.

[0265] The method further comprises the step 802 of coupling the cartridge 110 with the aerosol generating device 150. The first portion 121 of the wicking element 120 is received in the cavity 301 of the cartridge 110. The wicking element 120 is in fluid communication with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 116.

[0266] The method also includes step 803 of rotating the first end 142 of the resistive heating element 140 relative to the second end 143 of the resistive heating element 140 so as to deform the resistive heating element 140 so that the resistive heating element 140 is in contact with the wicking element 120. Thus, the wicking element 120 is in the heater assembly chamber 144 in the second configuration. In step 803, the heater assembly chamber 144 is thus transformed from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0267] The method also includes a step 804 of using the aerosol generating system 100 when the heater assembly chamber 144 is in the second configuration. The step 803 of causing the heater assembly chamber 144 to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration automatically sends an activation signal to the controller 154 to activate the device 150. Activation of the device 150 causes power to be supplied from the battery 156 to the resistive heating element 140. The battery 156 is connected to the first end 142 and the second end 143 of the resistive heating element 140 via wires and suitable electrical contacts not shown in the figure. This causes an electric current to flow through the resistive heating element 140, thereby resistively heating the resistive heating element 140.

[0268] In other examples, the device 150 is not immediately activated in response to the heater assembly chamber 144 being transitioned from the first configuration to the second configuration. Instead, the user may press a button (not shown) on the aerosol generating device 150, which sends an activation signal to the controller 154. In other examples, an air flow sensor or pressure sensor is located in the aerosol generating system 100 and is electrically connected to the controller 154. The air flow sensor or pressure sensor detects that the user is taking a puff on the mouthpiece portion 114 and sends a signal to the controller 154 to provide power to the resistive heating element 140.

[0269] During step 804, the user can draw on the mouthpiece portion 114 of the tube 110. When the user draws on the mouthpiece portion 114 of the tube 110, air is sucked into the air inlet 158. The air flow path is defined between the air inlet 158 ​​and the mouthpiece portion 114, passing through the device air flow passage 115, the heater assembly 130, and the internal passage 113 of the tube 110. In particular, the air flow path passes through the wicking element 120. The liquid aerosol-forming matrix 116 in the reservoir 112 is sucked into the wicking element 120 by capillary force. The liquid aerosol-forming matrix 116 in the wicking element 120 is then heated and vaporized by the resistive heating element 140 to generate vapor. The air flow entrains the vapor formed by the liquid aerosol-forming matrix 116 in the wicking element 120 heated by the resistive heating element 140. Then, this entrained vapor cools and condenses to form an aerosol. This aerosol is then drawn from the system by the user via the internal passageway 113 of the cartridge 110 and the mouthpiece portion 114 .

[0270] Since the resistive heating element 140 is in contact with the wicking element 120 in the second configuration, the wicking element 120 (and hence the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 116 ) is effectively heated by the resistive heating element 140 .

[0271] The method also includes a fifth step 805 of converting the heater assembly chamber 144 from the second configuration to the first configuration. After the fifth step 805, the resistive heating element 140 is disconnected from the wicking element 120. After step 805, the tube 110 can be disconnected from the aerosol generating device and replaced. This may be advantageous if the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 116 of the tube 110 is exhausted. In addition, after the tube is disconnected from the aerosol generating device, the wicking element 120 can be removed from the aerosol generating device 150 and replaced. This is advantageous if the wicking element 120 is degraded or damaged. Alternatively or in addition, steps 803 to 805 can be repeated for subsequent use until the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 116 of the tube 110 is exhausted.

[0272] The heater assembly chamber 144 has been described as having a first configuration and a second configuration. The heater assembly chamber 144 also has a third configuration (not shown). In the third configuration, the receiving chamber 144 has a smaller internal volume than in both the first configuration and the second configuration. In some embodiments, the wicking element 120 includes a compressible material. Therefore, in the third configuration, the wicking element compressible material is compressed.

[0273] Therefore, in some embodiments, step 803 of the method includes rotating the first end 142 of the resistive heating element 140 relative to the second end 143 of the resistive heating element so as to deform the heating element so that the receiving chamber is in a third configuration, and then rotating the first end 142 of the resistive heating element 140 relative to the second end 143 of the resistive heating element so as to deform the resistive heating element so that the resistive heating element contacts the wicking element.

[0274] Configuring the heater assembly chamber 144 to the third configuration prior to the second configuration forces the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the wicking element 120 out of the wicking element 120. The aerosol-forming substrate is then rapidly heated during step 804 and vaporized.

[0275] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generating system 700 according to the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating system 700 is similar to Figure 1 The aerosol generating system shown in FIG. 7 is similar to that shown in FIG. 7 , and therefore only the different features will be described. The heater assembly 730 of the aerosol generating device 750 also includes an inductor coil 795. Instead of a resistive heating element, the heater assembly 730 of the aerosol generating device 750 also includes a susceptor element 740. The susceptor element 740 includes a Figure 1 6, including end portions that protrude through the upper actuator element 132 and the lower actuator element 134. However, instead of being directly resistively heated, the susceptor element 740 is heated by induction. An alternating current is applied to the inductor coil 795, which generates a magnetic field. The susceptor element 740 is heated by eddy currents and hysteresis losses induced by the generated magnetic field.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating system for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating substrate, the aerosol generating system comprising: Heating elements; a receiving chamber at least partially defined by the heating element; a wicking element received in the receiving chamber; and wherein the receiving chamber has a first configuration and a second configuration, and when the receiving chamber is in the first configuration, the internal volume of the receiving chamber is larger than when the receiving chamber is in the second configuration; and wherein, in the second configuration, the heating element is in contact with the wicking element, and Wherein the aerosol generating system comprises an actuator, the actuator comprises a user interface element and an actuation mechanism, and the actuation mechanism is configured to actuate the receiving chamber between the first configuration and the second configuration in response to an input on the user interface element.

2. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, further comprising an aerosol generating device and a cartridge, the aerosol generating device comprising the heating element, the receiving chamber and the wicking element; wherein the cartridge is removably coupled to the aerosol generating device.

3. An aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein: The device also includes a power source.

4. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a reservoir containing the aerosol-forming substrate in condensed form, wherein the cartridge comprises a cartridge housing defining the reservoir.

5. An aerosol generating system according to claim 4, wherein: When the cartridge is coupled to the device, the wicking element is in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate in the reservoir.

6. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein: The cartridge does not include a heating element.

7. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: When the wicking element is received in the receiving chamber, at least a first portion of the wicking element extends beyond the receiving chamber.

8. An aerosol generating system according to claim 7, wherein: The cartridge housing defines an opening, and wherein the first portion of the wicking element is received adjacent to or through the opening of the cartridge housing when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device.

9. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The actuation mechanism is configured to translate movement of the user interface during input to cause the heating element to move or deform.

10. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The heating element is movable or deformable to reduce an internal volume of the receiving chamber in the second configuration relative to the first configuration.

11. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The heating element comprises a coil, and wherein the actuator is configured to deform the coil for transition of the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

12. An aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein The heating element further includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the actuator is configured to rotate the first end relative to the second end for transition of the receiving chamber from the first configuration to the second configuration.

13. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein: The coil is a spiral coil.

14. A method of using an aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, the method comprising: configuring the receiving chamber into the second configuration; Power is supplied to the first heating element to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising reconfiguring the receiving chamber from the second configuration to the first configuration after the step of supplying power to the heating element.

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