Cylinder with non-circular cross section

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol-generating device, the cartridge comprising: a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge; an inner airflow path extending between the proximal end and the distal end; a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; and a trunk assembly defining at least a portion of the inner airflow path and including a non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The non-circular cross-section includes a direction of maximum dimension. The backbone assembly also includes a susceptor element having at least one planar major surface. The susceptor element is arranged within the inner airflow path such that at least one planar major surface of the susceptor is aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of the maximum dimension and the longitudinal axis. The invention also relates to an aerosol-generating system.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge and the aerosol generating device.

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable vapour. Such a device may heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained in a cartridge without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may comprise a heating device. The heating device may be an induction heating device and may comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. The susceptor may be part of the device or may be part of the cartridge.

[0003] When heated to the target temperature, the aerosol-forming substrate vaporizes to form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in solid form or in liquid form. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be included in the liquid storage portion and may be delivered to the heating element via the capillary member.

[0004] It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating system with improved energy efficiency.It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating system that allows a heating element to be quickly heated to a target temperature.

[0005] It is desirable to provide a cartridge which allows efficient supply of liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid storage portion towards a heating element of the cartridge.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device is provided. The cartridge may include a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal end and the distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge may include an inner airflow path extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The cartridge may include a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may include a trunk assembly defining at least a portion of the inner airflow path. The trunk assembly may include a non-circular cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The non-circular cross section may include a direction of maximum dimension. The trunk assembly may include a susceptor element having at least one planar major surface. The susceptor element may be arranged in the inner airflow path so that at least one planar major surface of the susceptor is aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of maximum dimension and the longitudinal axis.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device is provided. The cartridge includes a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal end and the distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge includes an inner airflow path extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The cartridge includes a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge includes a trunk assembly defining at least a portion of the inner airflow path. At least a portion of the trunk assembly, preferably at least a distal portion of the trunk assembly, includes a non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The non-circular cross-section includes a direction of maximum dimension. The trunk assembly also includes a sensor element having at least one planar main surface. The sensor element is arranged in the inner airflow path so that at least one planar main surface of the sensor is aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of maximum dimension and the longitudinal axis.

[0008] By means of the cartridge, an aerosol generating system with improved energy efficiency may be provided. By means of the cartridge, an aerosol generating system may be provided that allows a heating element to be quickly heated to a target temperature. A cartridge may be provided that allows an efficient supply of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid storage portion towards the heating element of the cartridge.

[0009] The trunk assembly may coaxially define at least a portion of the inner airflow path.

[0010] The non-circular cross-section may include at least one straight side corresponding to the planar outer surface of the backbone assembly. The at least one straight side may be aligned parallel to the direction of the largest dimension. The susceptor element may be arranged in the inner airflow path such that at least one planar major surface of the susceptor element is aligned parallel to the planar outer surface of the backbone assembly.

[0011] The non-circular cross section may be formed of two opposing straight sides and two opposing curved sides. The curved sides may be in the form of a semicircle so that the cross section forms a stadium shape. The non-circular cross section may be in the form of an oval. The non-circular cross section may be in the form of an ellipse, and the direction of the largest dimension may coincide with the major axis of the ellipse.

[0012] The backbone assembly may include an outer tubular sleeve element that defines the inner components of the backbone assembly. The sleeve element may serve as an outer housing for the backbone assembly. The sleeve element may serve as an outer housing for at least a distal portion of the barrel. At least a portion of the sleeve element, preferably at least a distal portion of the sleeve element, may include a non-circular cross-section having a direction of maximum dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and at least one planar major surface of the susceptor is aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of maximum dimension and the longitudinal axis.

[0013] The stem assembly may comprise a liquid supply channel configured to supply the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage portion towards the susceptor element.

[0014] The liquid supply channel may include a first channel portion and a second channel portion. The inner gas flow path and the susceptor element may be arranged between the first channel portion and the second channel portion along a direction of a maximum dimension of the non-circular cross-section of the backbone component.

[0015] The distal end of the mouthpiece may be attached to the proximal end of the stem assembly, preferably by ultrasonic welding.

[0016] The backbone component may include a tubular interior cell defined by an outer wall of the backbone component.The non-circular cross-section of the backbone component may be defined by the outer wall of the backbone component.

[0017] The internal unit may include a tubular sealing component. The internal unit may include a tubular heater component. The heater component may include a susceptor element. The heater component may be arranged distally of the sealing component. The internal unit may include a tubular airflow management component. The airflow management component may be arranged distally of the heater component. The internal unit may include a proximal tubular sealing component, an intermediate tubular heater component including a susceptor element, and a distal tubular airflow management component. The sealing component, the heater component, and the airflow management component may be connected in series along the longitudinal axis.

[0018] The internal unit may coaxially define at least a portion of the inner airflow path.

[0019] The distal end of the heater component may be connected to the proximal end of the airflow management component.The proximal end of the heater component may be connected to the distal end of the sealing component.

[0020] The sealing component, the heater component and the airflow management component may be connected by a plug connection. A simple way of assembling the internal unit may be provided by inserting the sealing component, the heater component and the airflow management component into each other.

[0021] The barrel may include a tubular sleeve element defining at least a portion of the internal unit. The tubular sleeve element may coaxially define at least a portion of the internal unit. The barrel may include a liquid supply channel. The liquid supply channel may be arranged between the internal unit and the sleeve element. The liquid supply channel may be configured to supply liquid from the liquid storage portion toward the susceptor element.

[0022] The liquid storage portion may define a portion of the inner gas flow path. The liquid storage portion may coaxially define a portion of the inner gas flow path. The liquid storage portion may be disposed proximally of the internal unit relative to the longitudinal axis of the barrel. The liquid storage portion may be disposed proximally of the sleeve element relative to the longitudinal axis of the barrel.

[0023] The barrel may include a mouthpiece. The proximal portion of the barrel may be configured as a mouthpiece. The liquid storage portion may be at least partially arranged in the mouthpiece. The liquid storage portion may form a part of the mouthpiece. The distal end of the mouthpiece may be attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element. The distal end of the mouthpiece may be permanently attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element. The distal end of the mouthpiece may be attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element by ultrasonic welding.

[0024] The inner unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element.

[0025] The sealing component may include a tubular element defining a portion of the inner gas flow path and a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element.The tubular element of the sealing component may coaxially define a portion of the inner gas flow path.

[0026] The proximal sealing element may be provided as a continuous protrusion arranged circumferentially around the tubular element of the sealing member.

[0027] The proximal sealing element may be configured as a sealing lip. The sealing lip may comprise a hook-like profile.

[0028] The proximal sealing element may be provided as an O-ring. The tubular element may include a guide to hold the O-ring in place. When the inner unit is in the blocking position, the O-ring may exhibit a compression ratio of between 15% and 25%, preferably between 18% and 22%, more preferably about 20%.

[0029] The proximal sealing element may include a polymer material, preferably an elastomeric material. The elastomeric material may be selected from one or more of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), nitrile, chloroprene rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM rubber), fluorocarbon, silicone, low density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP). The elastomeric material may include a soft polymer, such as one or both of LDPE and PP. The elastomeric material may include a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). TPE may have a hardness between 30 and 90 Shore A.

[0030] The tubular element and the proximal sealing element of the sealing member may be made of the same material.The tubular element and the proximal sealing element of the sealing member may be constructed as a unitary piece.

[0031] The inner unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position to an open position. In the blocking position, the proximal sealing element may be arranged to block a fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. In the open position, the proximal sealing element may be movable to open a fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0032] The blocking position may be the pre-use configuration of a new cartridge.

[0033] In the blocking position, the liquid storage portion may be sealed by the proximal sealing element. Leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate may be further reduced or avoided. Contact of the aerosol-forming substrate with oxygen may be further reduced or avoided. A cartridge is provided that may provide a longer shelf life.

[0034] In the blocking position, the susceptor element may be fluidly isolated from the liquid aerosol-forming matrix in the liquid storage portion by the proximal sealing element.Oxidation of the susceptor element of the cartridge may be further reduced or prevented prior to first use of the cartridge.

[0035] In the blocking position, the proximal sealing element may contact the inner wall of the barrel to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. In the open position, the proximal sealing element may move away from the inner wall of the barrel to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The inner wall of the barrel may be the inner wall of the trunk assembly. The inner wall of the barrel may be the inner wall of the sleeve element. The inner wall of the barrel may be the inner wall of the mouthpiece.

[0036] The cartridge may be configured to automatically move the internal unit from the blocking position to the open position when the cartridge is engaged with the aerosol generating device.Thereby, the cartridge may be comfortably handled by the user.

[0037] The barrel may include a push device disposed at the distal end of the barrel. The push device may be directly connected to the internal unit. The push device may be part of the internal unit. The push device may be part of the distal face of the airflow management component. The barrel may be configured such that the internal unit is moved from the blocking position to the open position by pushing the push device toward the proximal end of the barrel when the barrel is engaged with the aerosol generating device.

[0038] The cartridge may be configured so that the internal unit remains in an open position when the cartridge is removed from the aerosol generating device. This may allow a user to easily visually verify whether a given cartridge is new or used.

[0039] The internal unit may remain coupled to the rest of the cartridge in both the blocking position and the open position.

[0040] The heater component may include a fluid permeable wall portion arranged to allow liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate from the liquid supply channel to the inner airflow path. The fluid permeable wall portion may be arranged to allow liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate toward a susceptor element in the inner airflow path. The fluid permeable wall portion may be a porous or perforated wall portion. The fluid permeable wall portion may be formed by two slits in the opposite side walls of the tubular heater component. The susceptor element may be located in the inner airflow path between the two slits.

[0041] The barrel may include a wicking element arranged to transfer a liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid supply channel toward a susceptor element. The barrel may include a wicking element arranged to transfer a liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid supply channel to a susceptor element. The heater component may include a wicking element. The wicking element may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material.

[0042] The fluid permeable wall portion of the heater component may be formed by two slits in the opposite side walls of the tubular heater component, and the wicking element may extend between and through the slits. A central portion of the wicking element may be arranged within the inner airflow path and may be clamped by the susceptor element. The susceptor element clamping the wicking element may be U-shaped. The susceptor element may include two substantially planar portions clamping the wicking element. The wicking element may have a sheet-like shape.

[0043] The airflow management component may comprise a tubular element defining a portion of the inner airflow path and a retaining element disposed at a distal end of the airflow management component.The retaining element may help reduce or avoid leakage of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate or liquid condensate.

[0044] The tubular element of the airflow management component may be a tubular sidewall.The tubular element of the airflow management component may coaxially define a portion of the inner airflow path.

[0045] The retaining element may comprise a closed distal wall of the airflow management component. Such a closed distal wall may provide a retaining element that is particularly suitable for receiving the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from one or both of the susceptor element and the inner airflow path of the cartridge. The retaining element may be formed as a slot. This may enable the retaining element to collect and receive a relatively large amount of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0046] The tubular sidewall of the airflow management component may include at least one air inlet for providing air into the inner airflow path.The at least one air inlet may be located spaced apart from the distal end of the airflow management component.

[0047] The airflow management component may include an airflow directing element disposed in the inner airflow path. The airflow directing element may be configured to direct airflow past the susceptor element. The airflow directing element may include a dividing wall element extending between opposing wall portions of the tubular sidewall of the airflow management component.

[0048] The airflow management component may include a distal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element or the tubular sidewall of the airflow management component.The distal sealing element may be configured to seal a distal end of the liquid supply channel.

[0049] The proximal portion of the barrel may have an oval cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the barrel. The oval cross-section may taper toward the proximal end.

[0050] The distal portion of the cartridge may be configured for engagement with an aerosol generating device. The distal portion of the cartridge may be configured for insertion into a cavity or heating chamber of an aerosol generating device. The distal portion of the cartridge may include a connection means configured to releasably connect to the aerosol generating device. The connection means may include a magnetic connection means.

[0051] The distal end of the cartridge may be configured for engagement with an aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may be configured for insertion into a cavity of an aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may include a connection means configured to releasably connect to the aerosol generating device. The connection means may be mechanical. The connection means may include one or more springs. The one or more springs may be made of a plastic material or a metal material or a combination thereof. The connection means may include a magnetic connection means.

[0052] The proximal end of the tube may be a mouth end. The proximal end of the tube may include a mouthpiece. The proximal end of the tube may include an air outlet.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is provided, comprising a cartridge as described herein, and an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device comprises a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge. The aerosol generating device comprises one or more inductor coils. The cavity is at least partially defined by the one or more inductor coils. The cavity may be at least partially defined coaxially by the one or more inductor coils. An aerosol generating system having a compact design is provided.

[0054] The aerosol generating device may include a pin element. The pin element may protrude from the distal face of the cavity. The pin element may be a spring loaded pin. The pin element may be a rigid pin. The pin element may be arranged to push against the distal end of the tube when the tube is inserted into the cavity. The pin element may be arranged to push against the distal end of the internal unit of the tube when the tube is inserted into the cavity. This may allow the internal unit of the tube to move axially relative to the sleeve element so as to open the liquid supply channel for fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The pin element may be arranged to push the proximal sealing element of the internal unit from a blocking position into an open position when the tube is inserted into the cavity.

[0055] When a new cartridge is purchased, the distal end of the internal unit of the new cartridge may protrude from the sleeve element of the cartridge. In this position, the internal unit may be in a blocking position relative to the sleeve element. This may block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel prior to use and before the cartridge is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0056] As used herein, the term "parallel" means that the maximum angle between two parallel planes and / or directions is less than 20 degrees, preferably less than 15 degrees, more preferably less than 10 degrees, more preferably less than 5 degrees, more preferably less than 2 degrees, and more preferably less than 1 degree.

[0057] The maximum angle between planar susceptor surfaces parallel to the direction of the largest dimension is less than 20 degrees, preferably less than 15 degrees, more preferably less than 10 degrees, more preferably less than 5 degrees, more preferably less than 2 degrees, more preferably less than 1 degree.

[0058] As used herein, the term "direction of maximum dimension" refers to the direction along the longest diameter of the two-dimensional shape defined by the non-circular cross section. For example, when the non-circular cross section is in the shape of an ellipse, the direction of maximum dimension coincides with the major axis of the ellipse. The direction of maximum dimension may also be referred to as the direction of maximum expansion.

[0059] As used herein, the terms "tubular", "tubular unit", "tubular component", "tubular element", and "tubular shape" refer to a three-dimensional object and a three-dimensional geometric shape that includes a bottom base, a top base, and a sidewall defining a hollow interior, the sidewall being disposed between the bottom base and the top base. The sidewall extends between the bottom base and the top base along the longitudinal axis of the tubular element. The longitudinal axis may be perpendicular to one or both of the bottom base and the top base.

[0060] The bottom base of the tubular element is located within the bottom base plane. The top base of the tubular element is located within the top base plane. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and the top base can be circular. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and the top base can be non-circular, such as oval, stadium-shaped or rectangular. One or both of the bottom base and the top base can be open.

[0061] The tubular element may have the shape of a perfect circular hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a non-circular hollow cylinder, such as an elliptical hollow cylinder or a stadium-shaped hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a hollow cuboid.

[0062] The longitudinal axis of the tubular element may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the barrel.The longitudinal centre axis of the tubular element may coincide with the longitudinal centre axis of the barrel.

[0063] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" relates to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol or vapor. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in liquid form. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used synonymously.

[0064] The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of the cartridge.The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a liquid held in a liquid storage portion of the cartridge.The liquid storage portion may contain a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0065] Preferably, liquid nicotine or flavouring / flavour comprising the aerosol-forming substrate may be used in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

[0066] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine.

[0067] The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that is conducive to the formation of a dense and stable aerosol in use and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the device. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol formers are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol. Preferably, the aerosol former is glycerol.

[0068] As used herein, the term "cartridge" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate that can release volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. For example, a cartridge can be an article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user sucking or drawing on a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the device or at the mouthpiece of the cartridge itself. The cartridge can be disposable. The cartridge can be reusable. The cartridge can be refillable. The cartridge can be inserted into a cavity of an aerosol generating device.

[0069] As used herein, the term "liquid storage portion" refers to a storage portion comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. The liquid storage portion may be configured as a container or reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0070] The liquid storage portion may be configured as a replaceable canister or container. The liquid storage portion may be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the liquid storage portion may be substantially cylindrical. The cross-section of the liquid storage portion may be, for example, substantially circular, oval, square or rectangular. The liquid storage portion may form part of a cartridge.

[0071] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that interacts with a cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0072] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating system" refers to a combination of an aerosol generating device and a cartridge. In this system, the aerosol generating device and the cartridge cooperate to generate an inhalable aerosol.

[0073] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The device may be an electrically operated smoking device. The device may be a handheld aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length of between 30 mm and 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of between 5 mm and 30 mm.

[0074] The aerosol generating device may comprise a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and non-brittle.

[0075] The housing may comprise at least one air inlet. The housing may comprise more than one air inlet.

[0076] The aerosol generating device may comprise a heating element.The heating element may comprise at least one inductor coil for inductively heating one or more susceptors.

[0077] The operation of the heating element may be triggered by a puff detection system. Alternatively, the heating element may be triggered by pressing a switch button that is held during a puff by the user. The puff detection system may be provided as a sensor, which may be configured as an airflow sensor to measure the airflow rate. The airflow rate is a parameter that characterizes the amount of air drawn by the user each time through the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. The start of a puff may be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. The start may also be detected when the user activates a button. The sensor may also be configured as a pressure sensor.

[0078] The aerosol generating device may comprise a user interface for activating the aerosol generating device, for example a button for initiating heating of the aerosol generating device or a display for indicating the status of the aerosol generating device or the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0079] The aerosol generating device may comprise additional components, such as a charging unit for recharging an onboard power supply in an electrically operated or electro-aerosol generating device.

[0080] As used herein, the term "proximal" refers to the user end or mouth end of a cartridge or aerosol generating device or system or a portion thereof, and the term "distal" refers to the end opposite the proximal end. When referring to a heating chamber, the term "proximal" refers to the area closest to the open end of the chamber, while the term "distal" refers to the area closest to the closed end.

[0081] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol generating device during use.

[0082] As used herein, the term "air flow path" refers to a passage suitable for conveying a gaseous medium. The air flow path can be used to convey ambient air. The air flow path can be used to convey an aerosol. The air flow path can be used to convey a mixture of air and aerosol.

[0083] As used herein, a "susceptor" or "susceptor element" refers to an element that becomes hot when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents, hysteresis losses, or both eddy currents and hysteresis losses induced in the susceptor element. During use, the susceptor element is positioned in thermal contact or close thermal proximity to an aerosol-forming substrate received in an aerosol generating device or cartridge. In this way, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated by the susceptor such that an aerosol is formed.

[0084] The susceptor material can be any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The following examples and features about the susceptor can be applied to the susceptor element of the tube. Suitable materials for the susceptor material include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium and a composite of metallic materials. Preferred susceptor materials include metals or carbon. Advantageously, the susceptor material may include ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials, such as ferrite iron, ferromagnetic alloys (such as ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel), ferromagnetic particles and ferrites, or be made of them. Suitable susceptor materials may be aluminum or include aluminum. The susceptor material may include ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic or paramagnetic materials greater than 5%, preferably greater than 20%, more preferably greater than 50%, or greater than 90%. Preferred susceptor materials may be heated to a temperature exceeding 250 degrees Celsius without degradation.

[0085] The susceptor material may be formed from a single layer of material. The single layer of material may be a layer of steel.

[0086] The susceptor material may comprise a non-metallic core with a metallic layer disposed on the non-metallic core.For example, the susceptor material may comprise a metallic track formed on the outer surface of a ceramic core or substrate.

[0087] The susceptor material may be formed of an austenitic steel layer. One or more layers of stainless steel may be disposed on the austenitic steel layer. For example, the susceptor material may be formed of an austenitic steel layer having a stainless steel layer on each of its upper and lower surfaces. The susceptor element may include a single susceptor material. The susceptor element may include a first susceptor material and a second susceptor material. The first susceptor material may be disposed in close physical contact with the second susceptor material. The first susceptor material and the second susceptor material may be in close contact to form an integral susceptor. In certain embodiments, the first susceptor material is stainless steel and the second susceptor material is nickel. The susceptor element may have a two-layer construction. The susceptor element may be formed of a stainless steel layer and a nickel layer.

[0088] Intimate contact between the first susceptor material and the second susceptor material may be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second susceptor material may be plated, deposited, coated, clad or welded to the first susceptor material. Preferred methods include electroplating, flow plating and cladding.

[0089] The aerosol generating device may include a power source for powering the heating element. The power source may include a battery. The power source may be a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery. The power source may need to be recharged and may have a capacity to store sufficient energy for one or more use experiences; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosol for a period of about six minutes or a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activations of the heating element.

[0090] The power supply may be a direct current (DC) power supply. In one embodiment, the power supply is a DC power supply having a DC supply voltage in the range of 2.5 volts to 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of 1 ampere to 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power supply in the range of 2.5 watts to 45 watts). The aerosol generating device may advantageously include a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting the DC current supplied by the DC power supply into an alternating current. The DC / AC converter may include a class D, class C or class E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is supplied to the induction coil.

[0091] The power supply may be adapted to power the inductor coil and may be configured to operate at a high frequency. The class E power amplifier is preferably used to operate at a high frequency. As used herein, the term "high frequency oscillating current" means an oscillating current having a frequency between 500 kilohertz and 30 megahertz. The frequency of the high frequency oscillating current may be 1 megahertz to 30 megahertz, preferably 1 megahertz to 10 megahertz, and more preferably 5 megahertz to 8 megahertz.

[0092] In another embodiment, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in the lower kHz range, for example between 100 kHz and 400 KHz.In embodiments using class D or class C power amplifiers, a switching frequency in the lower kHz range is particularly advantageous.

[0093] The aerosol generating device may comprise a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to the inductor coil. The controller may be electrically connected to the first induction coil and the second induction coil. The controller may be configured to control the current supplied to the induction coil and thereby control the strength of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil.

[0094] A power source and controller may be connected to the inductor coil.

[0095] The controller may be configured to be able to cut off the current supply on the input side of the DC / AC converter. In this way, the power supplied to the inductor coil may be controlled by conventional methods of duty cycle management.

[0096] 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.

[0097] Example E1: A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, comprising

[0098] a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends of the barrel;

[0099] an inner airflow path extending between the proximal end and the distal end;

[0100] a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; and

[0101] a trunk assembly defining at least a portion of the inner airflow path and comprising a non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis,

[0102] wherein the non-circular cross-section includes a direction of maximum dimension,

[0103] wherein the backbone assembly further comprises a susceptor element having at least one planar major surface, and

[0104] wherein the susceptor element is arranged within the inner airflow path such that at least one planar major surface of the susceptor is aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of the greatest dimension and the longitudinal axis.

[0105] Example E2: The cartridge of Example E1, wherein the non-circular cross-section includes at least one straight side corresponding to a planar outer surface of the trunk component, and

[0106] Wherein the susceptor element is arranged within the inner airflow path such that at least one planar major surface of the susceptor element is aligned parallel to a planar outer surface of the backbone assembly.

[0107] Example E3: The cartridge of example E2, wherein the non-circular cross section is comprised of two opposing straight sides and two opposing curved sides.

[0108] Example E4: The cartridge of example E3, wherein the curved side is in the form of a semicircle such that the cross section forms a stadium shape.

[0109] Example E5: The cartridge of example El, wherein the non-circular cross section exhibits an oval shape.

[0110] Example E6: The cartridge of Example E5, wherein the non-circular cross-section exhibits an elliptical shape, and wherein the direction of the largest dimension coincides with the major axis of the ellipse.

[0111] Example E7: The cartridge according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the backbone assembly comprises a liquid supply channel configured to supply liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage portion towards the susceptor element.

[0112] Example E8: A cartridge according to Example E7, wherein the liquid supply channel comprises a first channel portion and a second channel portion, and wherein the inner airflow path and the sensor element are arranged between the first channel portion and the second channel portion along a direction of a maximum dimension of the non-circular cross-section of the trunk component.

[0113] Example E9 The cartridge of any of the preceding examples, wherein the liquid storage portion defines a portion of the inner gas flow path.

[0114] Example E10: The cartridge of any of the preceding examples, wherein a proximal portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece, preferably wherein the liquid storage portion is at least partially disposed within the mouthpiece.

[0115] Example E11: A cartridge according to Example E10, wherein the distal end of the mouthpiece is attached to the proximal end of the stem assembly, preferably by ultrasonic welding.

[0116] Example E12: The cartridge of any of the preceding examples, wherein the trunk component includes a tubular interior cell defined by an outer wall of the trunk component, and wherein the non-circular cross-section of the trunk component is defined by the outer wall of the trunk component.

[0117] Example E13: The cartridge of Example E12, wherein the internal unit comprises a proximal tubular sealing component, an intermediate tubular heater component including the susceptor element, and a distal tubular airflow management component, and

[0118] Wherein the sealing component, the heater component and the airflow management component are connected in series along the longitudinal axis.

[0119] Example E14: The cartridge according to Example E13, wherein the heater component comprises a fluid-permeable wall portion arranged to allow liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate towards the susceptor element in the inner airflow path.

[0120] Example E15: The cartridge of Example E14, wherein the fluid-permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater member.

[0121] Example E16: The cartridge according to example E15, comprising a wicking element arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the susceptor element.

[0122] Example E17: An aerosol generating system comprising

[0123] A cartridge according to any of the preceding examples; and

[0124] An aerosol generating device comprises a heating chamber arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge, wherein the heating chamber is at least partially defined by an inductor coil.

[0125] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the invention.

[0126] The present invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0127] Figure 1 a to 1c show a tubular inner unit of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0128] Figure 2 a and 2b show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0129] Figure 3 a and 3b show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0130] Figure 4 a and 4b show an aerosol generating system;

[0131] Figure 5 a and 5b show a heater component of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0132] Figure 6 a to 6c show a cartridge for an aerosol generating device;

[0133] Figure 7 a and 7b show a cartridge for an aerosol generating device;

[0134] Figure 8 a and 8b show an aerosol generating device; and

[0135] Figure 8 c shows an aerosol generating system.

[0136] Figure 1 a shows the tubular inner unit 10 in a disassembled configuration. The inner unit 10 comprises a proximal tubular sealing component 20, an intermediate tubular heater component 40 comprising a susceptor element in a hollow interior thereof (not shown), and a distal tubular airflow management component 60.

[0137] The sealing member 20 comprises a tubular member 22 and a proximal sealing member 24 arranged on the outer surface of the tubular member 22. The proximal sealing member 24 is provided as a continuous protrusion arranged circumferentially around the tubular member 22 of the sealing member 20. The proximal sealing member 24 is provided as a sealing lip. The tubular member 22 and the proximal sealing member 24 of the sealing member 20 are formed as an integral piece.

[0138] The airflow management component 60 comprises a tubular sidewall 62 and a distal sealing element 64 configured as an O-ring disposed on the outer surface of the tubular sidewall 62. The O-ring is held axially in place between the first and second protrusions 66, 67 of the airflow management component 60.

[0139] Figure 1 b shows the assembled configuration Figure 1 a tubular internal unit 10. The sealing component 20, the heater component 40 and the airflow management component 60 are connected in series along the longitudinal axis 12. The distal end of the heater component 40 is inserted into the proximal end of the airflow management component 60. The proximal end of the heater component 40 is inserted into the distal end of the sealing component 20. The insertion action is Figure 1 Indicated by arrows in a.

[0140] Figure 1 c shows a cross-sectional view Figure 1 b. The assembled tubular interior unit 10. The airflow management component 60 includes an air inlet 68 that allows air to enter the hollow tubular interior of the tubular interior unit 10. The inner airflow path 14 is defined by the tubular interior unit 10. The inner airflow path 14 passes through the susceptor 42 of the heater component 40.

[0141] Figure 2 a shows the cartridge 100 in a disassembled configuration. The cartridge 100 comprises Figure 1a to 1c of the internal unit 10. The barrel 100 comprises a tubular sleeve element 80. At least a distal portion of the sleeve element 81 comprises a non-circular cross-section comprising a direction of greatest dimension 15. The barrel 100 comprises a mouthpiece 90 at its proximal end.

[0142] Figure 2 b shows the assembled configuration in cross section. Figure 2 The tubular sleeve element 80 defines a portion of the inner unit 10. The liquid supply channel 82 is formed by the empty space between the inner unit 10 and the sleeve element 80. The distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 is configured to close and seal the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82.

[0143] The mouthpiece 90 includes a liquid storage portion 92 defining a portion of the inner airflow path 14. The liquid storage portion 92 is provided by an empty space between an inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90 defining the inner airflow path 14 and an outer tubular wall portion 98 of the mouthpiece 90 defining the liquid storage portion 92. A proximal end 94 of the mouthpiece 90 includes an air outlet. A distal end 99 of the mouthpiece 90 is attached to the proximal end 84 of the sleeve member 80. For example, permanent attachment may be achieved by ultrasonic welding.

[0144] The distal portion of the barrel 100 including the inner unit 10 as well as the tubular sleeve element 80 and the liquid supply channel 82 forms a trunk assembly 81 .

[0145] The susceptor element 42 includes at least one planar major surface 42a. The susceptor element 42 is arranged within the inner airflow path 14 such that the at least one planar major surface 42a is aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of greatest dimension 15 and the longitudinal axis 12.

[0146] Figure 3 a shows the same as above except that the air inlet 68 is located at a different position. Figure 2 The cartridge 100 of a and 2b is substantially the same cartridge 100. Figure 3 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the air inlet 68 is located in the tubular side wall 62 of the airflow management component 60. Therefore, the air inlet 68 is located to be spaced apart from the distal end of the airflow management component 60. Therefore, the airflow management component 60 includes a retaining element 70 disposed at the distal end of the airflow management component 60, wherein the retaining element 70 includes a closed distal end wall of the airflow management component 60.

[0147] The inner unit 10 can be moved relative to the sleeve element 80. Figure 3 The blocking position shown in a is moved axially to Figure 3b, in which the proximal sealing element 24 is arranged to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82, and in which the proximal sealing element 24 moves to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. Figure 3 In the blocking position shown in FIG. 8 a , the proximal sealing element 24 contacts the inner wall of the sleeve element 80 to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82 .

[0148] exist Figure 3 In the open position shown in FIG. 2 b, the proximal sealing element 24 moves away from the inner wall to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. Figure 3 In the open position shown in FIG. 1 b , a liquid passage 16 has been formed, thereby allowing liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate from the liquid storage portion 92 into the liquid supply channel 82. The distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 seals the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82 to prevent the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from leaving the liquid supply channel 82 at its distal end in the open position.

[0149] When the internal unit 10 is Figure 3 The blocking position shown in a is moved axially to Figure 3 In the open position shown in FIG. 6 b , the distal portion of the inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90 can slide within the proximal portion of the tubular element 22 of the sealing member 20 .

[0150] The heater component 40 comprises a fluid permeable wall portion 44 arranged to allow liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate from the liquid supply channel 82 into the inner airflow pathway 14 and towards the susceptor element 42 .

[0151] Figure 4 4a and 4b show the aerosol generating system in cross-section. The aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge (e.g., Figure 2 and 3 The invention relates to a cartridge 100 and an aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 comprises a heating chamber 210 arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge 100. The heating chamber 210 is at least partially defined by an inductor coil 220.

[0152] The aerosol generating device 200 comprises a pin element 230 protruding from a distal face of the heating chamber 210. The pin element 230 is arranged to push the inner unit 10 of the cartridge 100 from a blocking position into an open position when the distal portion of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 210. Figure 4b shows a configuration in which the distal portion of the cartridge 100 has been inserted into the heating chamber 210 and the internal unit 10 is in an open position. Thus, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can migrate towards the susceptor 42.

[0153] In addition, in Figure 4 With the distal portion of the cartridge 100 shown in b inserted into the heating chamber 210, the susceptor 42 of the cartridge 100 is placed within the heating chamber 210 so that an alternating current applied to the inductor coil 220 generates an alternating magnetic field that induces a current in the susceptor 42 to heat the susceptor 42.

[0154] Ambient air may enter the aerosol generating system via the gap between the cartridge 100 and the aerosol generating device 200. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol generating device 200 may comprise an air inlet (not shown) fluidly connected to the heating chamber 210.

[0155] Airflow route 240 Figure 4 b as dashed lines. Liquid aerosol-forming substrate located near or in contact with the heated susceptor 42 may volatilize due to the increased temperature in the region of the susceptor 42. The volatilized material may be absorbed by the airflow and may travel downstream along the airflow route 240 and through the air outlet at the proximal end 94 of the cartridge 100, where the user may inhale the cooked aerosol.

[0156] The distal end of the cartridge 100 may comprise connection means (not shown), such as magnetic connection means, configured to releasably connect to the aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 may comprise corresponding connection means (not shown).

[0157] Figure 5 a and 5b are perspective views ( Figure 4 a) and front view ( Figure 4 b) shows an embodiment of a heater component 40. The fluid permeable wall portion 44 is formed by two slits in opposite side walls of the tubular heater component 40. The wicking element 46 extends between and through the slits. The wicking element 46 is arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel 82 to the susceptor element 42 when the heater component 40 is arranged in the sleeve element 80. The central portion of the wicking element 46 within the inner airflow path 14 is sandwiched by the susceptor element 42 presenting a U-shape.

[0158] Figure 6 6a to 6c show a cartridge 100 for an aerosol generating device.

[0159] Figure 6a shows a cartridge 100 in a perspective view. The cartridge 100 comprises a stem assembly 81 and a mouthpiece 90 arranged at a proximal end of the stem assembly 81 relative to the longitudinal axis 12. The mouthpiece 90 comprises a removable cork 93 for refilling a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The stem assembly 81 comprises a non-circular cross-section 19 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12 (see Figure 7 b). The non-circular cross section 19 is formed by two opposite straight sides 17 and two opposite curved sides 18 (see also Figure 7 b).

[0160] Figure 6 b shows Figure 6 An enlarged subsection of the cartridge 100 is shown as the dashed rectangle in a. Figure 6 b shows the backbone component 81 semi-transparently so that the susceptor element 42 located within the backbone component 81 is visible. At least the first planar major surface 42a of the susceptor element 42 is arranged parallel to the opposite straight sides 17 of the backbone component 81.

[0161] Figure 6 c shows a cross-sectional view Figure 6 a tube 100. Figure 6 c shows a configuration in which a cork 93 is inserted into the mouthpiece 90 to close the liquid storage portion 92. The inner airflow path 14 extends generally along the longitudinal axis 12 between the one or more air inlets 68 and an air outlet at the proximal end 94 of the mouthpiece 90.

[0162] Figure 7 a shows Figure 6 a to 6c are cross-sectional views of the trunk assembly 81 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 10. Figure 7 b shows the Figure 7 aSame cross-sectional view, but Figure 7 b Several details of the interior of the trunk component 81 are omitted to emphasize the non-circular cross section 19. Figure 7 As shown in b, the longitudinal axis 12 is perpendicular to Figure 7 The picture planes of a and 7b are extended. Figure 7 The positions of the cross-sectional cuts in a and 7b are determined by Figure 6 The dashed line and two arrows in c indicate. Figure 7 7a and 7b show that the cross-section of the backbone component 81 has a stadium shape with the direction 15 of the largest dimension.

[0163] Figure 71 shows a susceptor element 42, which is located within the inner airflow path 14 and includes a first planar major surface 42a and a second planar major surface 42b sandwiching a central portion of a wicking element 46. The fluid permeable wall portion 44 is formed by two slits in the opposite side walls of the tubular heater component 40 of the trunk assembly 81. The wicking element 46 extends between and through the two slits. The wicking element 46 is arranged to pass the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the first half-moon-shaped portion and the second opposing half-moon-shaped portion of the liquid supply channel 82a, 82b toward the susceptor element 42.

[0164] The trunk assembly 81 comprises a tubular heater member 40 defined by the outer wall of a sleeve element 80 of the trunk assembly 81. The tubular heater member 40 may form part of a tubular inner unit 10 as described herein, which may optionally be arranged to be axially movable within the sleeve element 80.

[0165] like Figure 7 a together with Figure 7 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the inner airflow path 14 and the susceptor element 42 with its major surfaces 42a, 42b are arranged between the first channel portion 82a and the second channel portion 82b along the direction 15 of the largest dimension of the non-circular cross section 19 of the trunk component 81. The non-circular cross section 19 of the trunk component 81 is defined by the sleeve element 80 representing the outer wall of the trunk component 81.

[0166] like Figure 7 As further shown in FIGS. 7 a and 7 b , the susceptor element 42 is arranged within the inner airflow path 14 such that the first planar major surface 42 a and the second planar major surface 42 b are aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of greatest dimension 15 and the longitudinal axis 12 .

[0167] like Figure 7 As shown in detail in FIG. 1 b, the non-circular cross section 19 is formed by two opposite straight sides 17 and two opposite curved sides 18. The curved sides 18 are in the form of a semicircle, so that the cross section forms a stadium shape.

[0168] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 a, the two straight sides 17 correspond to the planar outer surface 17 of the sleeve element 80, which is part of the outer surface of the trunk component 81 (see also FIG. Figure 6 a). The susceptor element 42 is arranged within the inner airflow path 14 such that the first and second planar major surfaces 42a, 42b of the susceptor are aligned parallel to the planar outer surface 17 of the trunk assembly 81 .

[0169] Figure 8a shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device 200 perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. Thus, the longitudinal axis of the device 200 extends perpendicular to the plane of the picture. a shows a cross-sectional view at a longitudinal position of the heating chamber 210. The heating chamber 210 has a stadium-shaped non-circular cross-section. Figure 8 The aerosol generating device 200 of a comprises two planar inductor coils 220 .

[0170] Figure 8 b also shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device 200 perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, which extends perpendicular to the plane of the picture. Also shown is a cross-sectional view at a longitudinal position of a heating chamber 210 having a stadium-shaped non-circular cross-section. Figure 8 The aerosol generating device 200 of b comprises an inductor coil 220 having a non-circular cross-section perpendicular to its longitudinal axis.

[0171] Figure 8 c shows the Figure 8 aerosol generating device 200 and Figure 6 and 7 100, wherein at least the distal portion of the trunk assembly 81 of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 210. The non-circular cross-section 19 of the trunk assembly 81 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12 combined with the aligned planar major surfaces 42a, 42b of the cartridge 100 allows only a small distance between the inductor coil 220 and the susceptor element 42 having its planar major surfaces 42a, 42b. Therefore, the energy transfer from the inductor coil 220 and the susceptor 42 can be optimized. An energy-saving system can be provided. When Figure 6 and 7 The cartridge 100 is inserted into Figure 8 When the device 200 of a is used, a similar energy-saving aerosol generating system can be provided.

Claims

1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, comprising a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends of the barrel; an inner airflow path extending between the proximal end and the distal end; a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; as well as a trunk assembly defining at least a portion of the inner airflow path and comprising a non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the non-circular cross-section includes a direction of maximum dimension, wherein the backbone assembly further comprises a susceptor element having at least one planar major surface, and wherein the susceptor element is arranged within the inner airflow path such that at least one planar major surface of the susceptor is aligned parallel to a plane defined by the direction of the greatest dimension and the longitudinal axis.

2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the non-circular cross-section includes at least one straight side corresponding to a planar outer surface of the trunk component, and Wherein the susceptor element is arranged within the inner airflow path such that at least one planar major surface of the susceptor element is aligned parallel to a planar outer surface of the backbone assembly.

3. The cartridge of claim 2, wherein the non-circular cross-section is comprised of two opposing straight sides and two opposing curved sides.

4. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein the curved sides are in the form of a semicircle such that the cross section forms a stadium shape. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the non-circular cross-section exhibits an oval shape.

6. The cartridge of claim 5, wherein the non-circular cross-section exhibits an elliptical shape, and wherein the direction of the largest dimension coincides with the major axis of the ellipse.

7. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stem assembly comprises a liquid supply channel configured to supply liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage portion towards the susceptor element.

8. A cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the liquid supply channel comprises a first channel portion and a second channel portion, and wherein the inner air flow path and the sensor element are arranged between the first channel portion and the second channel portion along a direction of a maximum dimension of the non-circular cross-section of the trunk component.

9. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the liquid storage portion defines a portion of the inner gas flow path.

10. The cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a proximal portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece, preferably wherein the liquid storage portion is at least partially disposed within the mouthpiece.

11. A cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the distal end of the mouthpiece is attached to the proximal end of the stem assembly, preferably by ultrasonic welding.

12. The cartridge of any of the preceding claims, wherein the trunk component comprises a tubular interior cell defined by an outer wall of the trunk component, and wherein the non-circular cross-section of the trunk component is defined by the outer wall of the trunk component.

13. The cartridge of claim 12, wherein the internal unit comprises a proximal tubular sealing component, an intermediate tubular heater component including the susceptor element, and a distal tubular airflow management component, and wherein the sealing component, the heater component and the airflow management component are connected in series along the longitudinal axis, preferably wherein the heater member comprises a fluid permeable wall portion arranged to allow liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate towards the susceptor element in the inner airflow path, more preferably Wherein the fluid permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in opposite side walls of the tubular heater member.

14. A cartridge according to claim 13, comprising a wicking element arranged to transfer liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the susceptor element.

15. An aerosol generating system comprising A cartridge according to any preceding claim; and An aerosol generating device comprises a heating chamber arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge, wherein the heating chamber is at least partially defined by an inductor coil.

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