Heater assembly with non-uniform heating distribution

Abstract

The invention relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol-generating device. The heater assembly includes a cavity for receiving an article. An article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate portion, the aerosol-forming substrate portion comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity includes a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for insertion of the article, and a lateral cavity sidewall for surrounding a lateral sidewall of an aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity. The heater assembly includes a heating element disposed around a partial region of the lateral cavity sidewall such that during use only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element to provide an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article upon activation of the heating element. The invention also relates to an aerosol-generating device. The invention also relates to an aerosol-generating system. The invention also relates to a method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The invention also relates to the use of an aerosol-generating system.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol-generating device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-forming substrate. The present disclosure also relates to a method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The present disclosure also relates to a use of an aerosol-generating system. BACKGROUND

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol-generating device for generating an inhalable vapour. Such devices can heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained in an aerosol-generating article without combusting the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article can have a rod shape for insertion of the aerosol-generating article into a heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device. A heating element is typically arranged in or around the heating chamber for heating the aerosol-forming substrate once the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device.

[0003] Environmental conditions can influence the quality of the generated aerosol. Particularly high humidity conditions can result in an aerosol-forming substrate having a high humidity. Particularly low humidity conditions can result in an aerosol-forming substrate having a low humidity. An aerosol-forming substrate having a high humidity can result in a “warm aerosol perception” effect, also known as a “hot aerosol effect”, when the evaporated moisture in the aerosol-forming substrate is inhaled during a first puff. Especially in humid environments, an undesired warm first puff can occur due to the high moisture content in the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article. SUMMARY

[0004] It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device with improved aerosol consistency. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device for preventing a “hot aerosol effect”. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device with reduced humidity in the first puffed aerosol. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device that prevents an undesired warm first puff in humid environments.

[0005] According to embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a heater assembly for an aerosol-generating device. The heater assembly can comprise a cavity for receiving an article. The article can comprise an aerosol-forming substrate portion comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity can comprise a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for insertion of the article. The cavity can comprise a lateral cavity side wall for surrounding a lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when inserted into the cavity. The heater assembly can comprise a heating element. The heating element can be arranged around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, only a portion of the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element to provide an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article when the heating element is activated.

[0006] According to embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a heater assembly for an aerosol-generating device. The heater assembly comprises a cavity for receiving an article. The article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate portion comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity comprises a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for insertion of the article. The cavity comprises a lateral cavity side wall for surrounding a lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when inserted into the cavity. The heater assembly comprises a heating element. The heating element is arranged around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, only a portion of the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element to provide an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article when the heating element is activated.

[0007] By the heater assembly of the present invention, an aerosol-generating device with improved aerosol consistency can be provided. By the heater assembly of the present invention, an aerosol-generating device for reducing or preventing a "hot aerosol effect" can be provided. By the heater assembly of the present invention, an aerosol-generating device with reduced humidity in the first puff of aerosol draw can be provided. By the heater assembly of the present invention, an aerosol-generating device preventing an undesired warm first puff in a humid environment can be provided.

[0008] By the initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article, an initial non-uniform temperature distribution over the entire aerosol-forming substrate in the aerosol-forming substrate portion can be achieved. A delayed increase in the operating temperature to portions of the aerosol-forming substrate can be achieved. Thereby, for the first puff, less moisture can be initially evaporated and delivered to the user. A "hot aerosol effect" can be reduced or avoided.

[0009] The heating element can be an electrically resistive heating element.

[0010] The heating element can be configured for being continuously heated during a plurality of puffs. The heating element can be configured for being continuously heated during a plurality of puffs.

[0011] The heater assembly can be configured for providing a temperature difference across the lateral side wall of the article, said temperature difference being between 5 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, preferably between 10 degrees Celsius and 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 20 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 25 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 30 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius.

[0012] The heater assembly can be configured for providing an initial temperature difference across the lateral cavity side wall, said initial temperature difference being between 5 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, preferably between 10 degrees Celsius and 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 20 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 25 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 30 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius.

[0013] The heating element can be arranged around only a portion of the lateral cavity side wall, such that less than 95%, preferably less than 90%, more preferably less than 85%, more preferably less than 80%, more preferably less than 75%, more preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 65%, more preferably less than 60%, more preferably less than 55%, more preferably less than 50% of the total area of the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element during use.

[0014] The heating element can be arranged around only a portion of the lateral cavity side wall, such that between 15% and 95%, preferably between 15% and 95%, more preferably between 20% and 90%, more preferably between 25% and 85%, more preferably between 50% and 85% of the total area of the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element during use.

[0015] The heating element can cover less than 95%, preferably less than 90%, more preferably less than 85%, more preferably less than 80%, more preferably less than 75%, more preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 65%, more preferably less than 60%, more preferably less than 55%, more preferably less than 50% of the total area of the lateral cavity side wall.

[0016] The heating element can cover between 15% and 95%, preferably between 15% and 95%, more preferably between 20% and 90%, more preferably between 25% and 85%, more preferably between 50% and 85% of the total area of the lateral cavity side wall.

[0017] The heating element can extend radially around between 60% and 90%, preferably between 65% and 85%, more preferably between 70% and 80% of the perimeter of the lateral cavity side wall.

[0018] The heating element can extend along at least 80%, preferably at least 85%, more preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95% of the length of the lateral cavity side wall in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0019] The heating element can comprise a first heating section and a second heating section arranged at opposite sides of the lateral cavity side wall. Each of the first heating section and the second heating section can extend radially around 10% to 45%, preferably 15% to 40%, more preferably 30% to 40% of the perimeter of the lateral cavity side wall.

[0020] The region of the lateral cavity side wall not covered by the heating element can have a width exceeding 2 millimetres in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0021] The lateral cavity side wall can comprise a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0022] The lateral cavity side wall can comprise opposite first and second major boundary surfaces. The first and second major boundary surfaces of the cavity can extend in facing parallel relationship. The first and second major boundary surfaces of the cavity can define a major flow axis for fluid flowing through the cavity along the longitudinal axis.

[0023] The heating element can comprise one or both of a first planar heating section arranged on the first major boundary surface of the lateral cavity side wall and a second planar heating section arranged on the second major boundary surface of the lateral cavity side wall.

[0024] The first and second planar heating sections can be disposed at different longitudinal positions relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0025] The heating element can be arranged only on the first major boundary surface of the lateral cavity side wall, such that the second major boundary surface does not comprise a heating element.

[0026] The lateral cavity side wall can comprise a metal tube, preferably a stainless steel tube. The heating element can be a flexible heating element disposed on an outer wall of the metal tube.

[0027] A portion of the lateral cavity side wall can be formed of a low thermal conductivity material. The low thermal conductivity material can be a polymeric material, preferably polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

[0028] The heater assembly can be configured such that the portion of the lateral cavity side wall formed of the low thermal conductivity material is not covered by the heating element.

[0029] The heating element can consist of two electrically resistive heating tracks connected in parallel disposed on an electrically insulating substrate.

[0030] According to embodiments of the present application, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a heater assembly as described herein.

[0031] The aerosol-generating device can comprise a controller for controlling the supply of power to the heating element. The controller can be configured to supply power to the heating element such that, for an initial puff, a non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral cavity side wall and, for a subsequent puff, a more uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral cavity side wall, wherein a maximum temperature difference of the non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall exceeds a maximum temperature difference of the more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall.

[0032] According to embodiments of the application, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device as described herein and an article comprising aerosol-forming substrate.

[0033] According to embodiments of the application, there is provided a method for heating an article comprising aerosol-forming substrate. The method can comprise providing an aerosol-generating system as described herein. The method can comprise providing, for an initial puff, a non-uniform temperature distribution across a lateral side wall of the article. The method can comprise providing, for a subsequent puff, a more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article. A maximum temperature difference of the non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall can exceed a maximum temperature difference of the more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall.

[0034] According to embodiments of the application, there is provided a method for heating an article comprising aerosol-forming substrate. The method comprises providing an aerosol-generating system as described herein. The method comprises providing, for an initial puff, a non-uniform temperature distribution across a lateral side wall of the article. The method comprises providing, for a subsequent puff, a more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article, wherein a maximum temperature difference of the non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall exceeds a maximum temperature difference of the more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall.

[0035] According to embodiments of the application, there is provided a method for heating an article comprising aerosol-forming substrate. The method can comprise providing an aerosol-generating system as described herein. The method can comprise heating only a first heating section of the heating element to provide a first non-uniform temperature distribution across a lateral side wall of the article. The method can comprise subsequently heating only a second heating section of the heating element to provide a second non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article. The method can comprise subsequently heating both the first heating section and the second heating section of the heating element simultaneously to provide a more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article. A maximum temperature difference of each of the first and second non-uniform temperature distributions across the lateral cavity side wall can exceed a maximum temperature difference of the more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall.

[0036] According to embodiments of the application, there is provided a method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The method comprises providing an aerosol-generating system as described herein. The method comprises heating only a first heating section of the heating element to provide a first non-uniform temperature distribution across a lateral side wall of the article. The method comprises subsequently heating only a second heating section of the heating element to provide a second non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article. The method comprises subsequently heating both the first heating section and the second heating section of the heating element simultaneously to provide a more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral side wall of the article, wherein a maximum temperature difference of each of the first non-uniform temperature distribution and the second non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall can exceed a maximum temperature difference of the more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral cavity side wall.

[0037] According to embodiments of the application, there is provided a use of an aerosol-generating system as described herein for reducing hot vapour of an initial puff by means of a non-uniform temperature distribution provided across a lateral side wall of an article upon activation of a heating element.

[0038] As used herein, the terms "proximal", "distal", "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe the relative positions of components or parts of components of an aerosol-generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws on them during use of the aerosol-generating device.

[0039] The aerosol-generating device can comprise a mouth end through which, in use, aerosol exits the aerosol-generating device and is delivered to a user. The mouth end can also be referred to as a proximal end. In use, a user draws on the proximal end or mouth end of the aerosol-generating device in order to inhale aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, a user can draw directly on an aerosol-generating article inserted into an opening at the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device. The opening at the proximal end can be an opening of a cavity. The cavity can be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device comprises a distal end opposite the proximal end or mouth end. The proximal end or mouth end of the aerosol-generating device can also be referred to as a downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device can also be referred to as an upstream end. Components or parts of components of the aerosol-generating device can be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal end, downstream end or mouth end and the distal end or upstream end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0040] As used herein, an "aerosol-generating device" relates to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate can be part of an aerosol-generating article, such as part of a smoking article. The aerosol-generating device can be a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable by a user into the lungs of the user through the mouth of the user. The aerosol-generating device can be a holder. The device can be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol-generating device can comprise a housing, circuitry, a power source, a heating chamber and a heating element.

[0041] As used herein with reference to the present application, the term "smoking" as used in relation to a device, article, system, substrate or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which an aerosol-forming substrate is combusted, at least in part. The aerosol-generating device of the present application is arranged to heat an aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature that is below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate but at or above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0042] The aerosol-generating device can comprise circuitry. The circuitry can comprise a microprocessor, which can be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor can be part of a controller. The circuitry can comprise further electronic components. The circuitry can be configured to regulate the supply of electrical power to the heating element. The electrical power can be supplied to the heating element continuously after activation of the aerosol-generating device or can be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff-by-puff basis. The electrical power can be supplied to the heating element in the form of current pulses. The circuitry can be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and to control the supply of electrical power to the heating element, preferably in dependence on the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0043] The aerosol-generating device can comprise a power source, typically a battery, within the main body of the aerosol-generating device. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source can 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. As an alternative, the power source can be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. The power source can require recharging and can have a capacity that enables sufficient energy to be stored for one or more use experiences; for example, the power source can have sufficient capacity to generate an aerosol for a period of about six minutes or a multiple of six minutes continuously. In another example, the power source can have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activations of the heating element.

[0044] The cavity of the aerosol-generating device can have an open end into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end can be a proximal end. The cavity can have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end can be a base of the cavity. The closed end can be closed other than to provide an air aperture arranged in the base. The base of the cavity can be flat. The base of the cavity can be circular. The base of the cavity can be arranged upstream of the cavity. The open end can be arranged downstream of the cavity. The cavity can have an elongate extension. The cavity can have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal direction can be a direction extending along the longitudinal central axis between the open end and the closed end. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity can be parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0045] The cavity can be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity can have a cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a shape corresponding to a shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity. The cavity can have a circular cross-section. The cavity can have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity can have an inner diameter corresponding to an outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0046] The airflow passage can extend through the aerosol-generating device and into the cavity. Ambient air can be drawn into the aerosol-generating device, into the cavity and through the airflow passage towards the user. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece can be arranged, or the user can draw directly on the aerosol-generating article. The airflow passage can extend through the mouthpiece.

[0047] In any aspect of the disclosure, the heating element can comprise an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors, such as doped ceramics, electrically "conductive" ceramics, such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide, carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made from ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials can include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold, and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminum-containing alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, gold-containing alloys, iron-containing alloys, and superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum based alloys. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material can optionally be embedded in, encapsulated by, or coated by an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the external physico-chemical properties required.

[0048] As described, in any of the aspects of this disclosure, the heating element may be part of an aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus may include an internal heating element, an external heating element, or both, wherein “internal” and “external” refer to the aerosol forming matrix. The internal heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the internal heating element may take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the internal heater may take the form of a sleeve or substrate with different conductive portions, or a resistance metal tube. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating needles or rods extending through the center of the aerosol forming matrix. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, such as Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wires, or heating plates. Optionally, the internal heating element may be deposited in or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the resistance heating element may be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary apparatus, the metal may be formed as a rail on a suitable insulating material (such as a ceramic material) and then sandwiched in another insulating material (such as glass). Heaters formed in this way can be used to both heat and monitor the temperature of the heating element during operation.

[0049] The external heating element can take any suitable form. For example, it can take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate (such as polyimide). The flexible heating foil can be shaped to conform to the periphery of the matrix receiving cavity. Alternatively, the external heating element can take the form of a metal mesh or multiple metal meshes, a flexible printed circuit board, a molded interconnect device (MID), a ceramic heater, a flexible carbon fiber heater, or can be formed on a suitable shaped substrate using coating techniques (such as plasma vapor deposition). The external heating element can also be formed using a metal with a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal can be formed as a rail between two layers of suitable insulating material. An external heating element formed in this way can be used to both heat and monitor the temperature of the external heating element during operation.

[0050] As an alternative to resistance heating elements, heating elements can be configured as induction heating elements. Induction heating elements can include an induction coil and a sensor. Generally, the sensor is a material capable of generating heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When located in an alternating magnetic field, if the sensor is conductive, eddy currents are typically induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the sensor is magnetic, another effect that typically contributes to heating is often referred to as hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss occurs primarily due to the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the sensor, as the magnetic orientation of these domain blocks aligns with the alternating magnetic induction field. Another effect contributing to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains will grow or shrink within the sensor. Typically, all these changes occurring in the sensor at the nanoscale or below are referred to as "hysteresis loss" because they generate heat within the sensor. Therefore, if the sensor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and eddy current generation contribute to heating the sensor. If the sensor is magnetic but non-conductive, hysteresis loss will be the only means of heating the sensor when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the invention, the sensor can be conductive or magnetic, or both. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or more induction coils heats the sensor, which then transfers the heat to the aerosol-forming matrix, causing aerosol formation. Heat transfer can be primarily via thermal conduction. This heat transfer is optimal if the sensor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0051] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. For example, an aerosol-generating article can be a smoking article that generates aerosols that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of a user through their mouth. Aerosol-generating articles can be disposable.

[0052] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol forming matrix may suitably be part of an aerosol-generating article or a smoking article.

[0053] The aerosol forming matrix can be a solid aerosol forming matrix. It can include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix can include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix can also include non-tobacco materials. Furthermore, the aerosol forming matrix can include aerosol forming agents that contribute to the formation of dense and stable aerosols. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0054] The aerosol-generating matrix preferably comprises: homogenized tobacco material, an aerosol forming agent, and water. Providing homogenized tobacco material can improve aerosol generation, nicotine content, and aroma characteristics of aerosols generated during the heating of aerosol-generating articles. Specifically, the process of manufacturing homogenized tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaves, which more effectively releases nicotine and aroma upon heating.

[0055] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol forming matrix. When the aerosol forming matrix forms part of an aerosol generation article, the aerosol generation system refers to the combination of the aerosol generation apparatus and the aerosol generation article. In an aerosol generation system, the aerosol forming matrix and the aerosol generation apparatus cooperate to generate aerosols.

[0056] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0057] Example E1: A heater assembly for an aerosol generation apparatus, the heater assembly comprising...

[0058] A cavity for receiving an article, the article including an aerosol-forming matrix portion comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, the cavity including a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and a lateral cavity sidewall for surrounding the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming matrix portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity; and

[0059] Heating element,

[0060] The heating element is arranged around a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall, such that during use,

[0061] Only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming matrix portion of the article is covered by the heating element to provide an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating element is activated.

[0062] Example E2: The heater assembly according to Example E1, wherein the heating element is a resistance heating element.

[0063] Example E3: A heater assembly according to Example E1 or Example E2, wherein the heating element is configured to be continuously heated during multiple suction cycles.

[0064] Example E4: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide a temperature difference across the lateral sidewall of the article, the temperature difference being between 5 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, preferably between 10 degrees Celsius and 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 20 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 25 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, and even more preferably between 30 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius.

[0065] Example E5: A heater assembly according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide an initial temperature difference across the sidewall of the lateral cavity, the initial temperature difference being between 5 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, preferably between 10 degrees Celsius and 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 20 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 25 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, and more preferably between 30 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius.

[0066] Example E6: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating element is arranged around only a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall, such that during use, less than 95%, preferably less than 90%, more preferably less than 85%, more preferably less than 80%, more preferably less than 75%, more preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 65%, more preferably less than 60%, more preferably less than 55%, more preferably less than 50% of the total area of ​​the lateral sidewall of the aerosol forming matrix portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

[0067] Example E7: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating element is arranged around only a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall, such that during use, 15% to 95%, preferably 15% to 95%, more preferably 20% to 90%, more preferably 25% to 85%, and more preferably 50% to 85% of the total area of ​​the lateral sidewall of the aerosol forming matrix portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

[0068] Example E8: A heater assembly according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the heating element covers less than 95%, preferably less than 90%, more preferably less than 85%, more preferably less than 80%, more preferably less than 75%, more preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 65%, more preferably less than 60%, more preferably less than 55%, more preferably less than 50% of the total area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0069] Example E9: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating element covers 15% to 95%, preferably 15% to 95%, more preferably 20% to 90%, more preferably 25% to 85%, and more preferably 50% to 85% of the total area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0070] Example E10: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating element extends radially around 60% to 90%, preferably 65% ​​to 85%, more preferably 70% to 80% of the periphery of the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0071] Example E11: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating element extends at least 80%, preferably at least 85%, more preferably at least 90%, and even more preferably at least 95% of the length of the lateral cavity sidewall in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0072] Example E12: A heater assembly according to Example E11, wherein the heating element includes a first heating section and a second heating section disposed on opposite sides of the lateral cavity sidewall, each of the first heating section and the second heating section extending radially around the periphery of the lateral cavity sidewall by 10% to 45%, preferably 15% to 40%, more preferably 30% to 40%.

[0073] Example E13: The heater assembly according to Example E11 or Example E12, wherein the area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall not covered by the heating element has a width of more than 2 mm in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0074] Example E14: A heater assembly according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall comprises a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0075] Example E15: A heater assembly according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall includes opposing first and second main boundary surfaces, the first and second main boundary surfaces of the cavity extending in a facing parallel relationship and defining a main flow axis for fluid to flow through the cavity along the longitudinal axis.

[0076] Example E16: A heater assembly according to Example E15, wherein the heating element includes a first planar heating section disposed on a first main boundary surface of the lateral cavity sidewall and a second planar heating section disposed on a second main boundary surface of the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0077] Example E17: The heater assembly according to Example E16, wherein the first planar heating section and the second planar heating section are disposed at different longitudinal positions relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0078] Example E18: A heater assembly according to Example E15, wherein the heating element is disposed only on the first main boundary surface of the lateral cavity sidewall, and wherein the second main boundary surface does not include the heating element.

[0079] Example E19: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall comprises a metal tube, and wherein the heating element is a flexible heating element disposed on the outer wall of the metal tube, preferably wherein the metal tube is a stainless steel tube.

[0080] Example E20: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein a portion of the sidewall of the lateral cavity is formed of a material with low thermal conductivity, preferably a polymeric material, more preferably polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

[0081] Example E21: A heater assembly according to Example E20, wherein the portion of the lateral cavity sidewall formed of the low thermal conductivity material is not covered by the heating element.

[0082] Example E22: A heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating element consists of two parallel-connected resistance heating rails disposed on an electrically insulating substrate.

[0083] Example E23: An aerosol generating apparatus comprising a heater assembly according to any of the foregoing examples.

[0084] Example E24: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example E23 includes a controller for controlling the power supply to the heating element, the controller being configured to supply power to the heating element such that a non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the sidewall of the lateral cavity for initial suction, and a more uniform temperature distribution is provided across the sidewall of the lateral cavity for subsequent suction.

[0085] The maximum temperature difference across the non-uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the more uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity.

[0086] Example E25: An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to Example E23 or Example E24 and an article comprising an aerosol forming matrix.

[0087] Example E26: A method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, the method comprising:

[0088] Provides an aerosol generation system based on Example E25;

[0089] For initial suction, a non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article; and

[0090] For subsequent suction, a more uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article.

[0091] The maximum temperature difference across the non-uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the more uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity.

[0092] Example E27: A method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, the method comprising:

[0093] Provides an aerosol generation system based on Example E25;

[0094] Only the first heating section of the heating element is heated to provide a first non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article; and subsequently,

[0095] Only the second heating section of the heating element is heated to provide a second non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewalls of the article; and subsequently,

[0096] Simultaneously heating both the first heating section and the second heating section of the heating element to provide a more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article;

[0097] The maximum temperature difference between each of the first and second non-uniform temperature distributions spanning the sidewall of the lateral cavity exceeds the maximum temperature difference of the more uniform temperature distribution spanning the sidewall of the lateral cavity.

[0098] Example E28: The aerosol generation system according to Example E25 is used to reduce the initial extraction of hot vapor by means of a non-uniform temperature distribution provided across the lateral sidewall of the article after the heating element is activated.

[0099] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0100] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0101] Figure 1 a and 1b show the heater assembly;

[0102] Figure 2 a to 2c show the heater assembly;

[0103] Figure 3 a to 3d show the heating device used for the heater assembly;

[0104] Figure 4 a to 4d show the heater assembly;

[0105] Figure 5 a through 5c show the heater assembly;

[0106] Figure 6A through 6c show the heater assembly; and

[0107] Figure 7 a through 7c show the heater assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0108] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view shows a heater assembly for an aerosol generation apparatus. The heater assembly includes a cavity for receiving an article. The article includes an aerosol forming matrix portion 10 containing an aerosol forming matrix. The cavity includes a longitudinal axis 12 extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and a lateral cavity sidewall 14 surrounding the lateral sidewall of the aerosol forming matrix portion 10 of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity. The longitudinal axis 12 is perpendicular to... Figure 1 The cross-section of a extends. The heater assembly includes a heating element 16. Figure 1 In embodiment a, the heating element 16 extends radially about 70% to 80% of the periphery of the lateral cavity sidewall 14. Therefore, the heating element 16 is arranged around a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall 14 such that during use, only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol forming matrix portion 10 of the article is covered by the heating element 16 to provide an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating element 16 is activated.

[0109] The lateral cavity sidewall 14 can be provided by a steel tube. The heating element 16 can be formed by one or more conductive rails on an electrically insulating flexible substrate.

[0110] Figure 1 b shows a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly for the aerosol generation device. Figure 1 The heater assembly of a is different, in Figure 1 In heater assembly b, heating element 16 includes a first heating section 16a and a second heating section 16b arranged on opposite sides of the lateral cavity sidewall 14, each of the first heating section 16a and the second heating section 16b extending radially around 30% to 40% of the periphery of the lateral cavity sidewall 14. The area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall 14 not covered by heating elements 16a, 16b has a width 'd' exceeding 2 mm in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12. Figure 1 In the cross-sectional view of b, the first heating section 16a and the second heating section 16b form two crescent shapes. Due to the gap not covered by the heating elements 16a and 16b, an initial non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article when the heating sections 16a and 16b are activated.

[0111] In an alternative embodiment, Figure 1The heater assembly of b can operate as follows. In the first stage, the first heating section 16a is activated, and the corresponding upper portion of the aerosol-forming matrix in the aerosol-forming matrix portion 10 is heated. This generates a temperature gradient toward the lower portion, and moisture is extracted only from the upper portion of the matrix. Subsequently, the second heating section 16b is heated, and the process is repeated symmetrically, thereby generating a temperature gradient toward the upper portion of the matrix, and this time water content is extracted from the lower portion of the matrix. Such a heating configuration allows for more gradual extraction of water content. Finally, after most of the water content has been gradually evacuated, the matrix can then be heated more uniformly by simultaneously activating both the first heating section 16a and the second heating section 16b.

[0112] Figure 2 a and 2b show a heater assembly for an aerosol generation apparatus in cross-sectional views. The heater assembly includes a cavity for receiving an article having an aerosol-forming matrix portion 10. The cavity includes a longitudinal axis 12 extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and a lateral cavity sidewall 14 that surrounds the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming matrix portion 10 of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity.

[0113] The lateral cavity sidewall 14 comprises a tube made of a combination of a thermally conductive material (e.g., stainless steel) that provides the heating elements 16, 16a, 16b and a non-thermally conductive material 19 (such as PEEK) that forms the remaining lateral cavity sidewall 14. The tube can be readily obtained via an overmolding process.

[0114] The portion of the matrix in contact with the PEEK region 19 is not directly heated by heaters 16, 16a, 16b, in order to provide an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewalls of the article when the heating elements 16, 16a, 16b are activated.

[0115] Figure 2 a and 2b illustrate such possible embodiments, in which the tube is made of a combination of PEEK 19 and heating material forming the heating element 16 in two different configurations. Figure 2 a shows a partial cover with a segmental heating element 16, and Figure 2 b shows a two-half-moon design with two heating sections 16a and 16b.

[0116] Figure 2 c shows a sectional view of the heater assembly for the aerosol generation apparatus. The heating element 16 extends radially about 60% to 70% of the periphery of the lateral cavity sidewall 14.

[0117] Therefore, the heating element 16 is arranged around a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall 14 such that during use, only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol forming matrix portion 10 of the article is covered by the heating element 16, providing an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating element 16 is activated. The heating element 16 is disposed on an insulating substrate 18. The lateral cavity sidewall 14 may be provided by a steel tube. The heating element 16 may be formed from one or more conductive rails, preferably two conductive rails connected in parallel, on the insulating substrate 18. The insulating substrate 18 may be a polyimide layer.

[0118] Figure 3 Figures a through 3d illustrate a heating device for a heater assembly. The heating device includes a heating element 16, which comprises two parallel-connected resistance heating rails 17a and 17b disposed on an electrically insulating substrate 18. The heating element 16... Figure 3 Highlighted in b. Electrically insulating substrate 18 is shown in Figure 3 Highlighted in section c. The heating device may also include connector rail 20. The connector rail provides an electrical connector to the temperature sensor. Connector rail 20 is in Figure 3 Highlighted in d.

[0119] Figure 4 a through 4d show heater assemblies including heating elements 16 provided in the form of one or more rings arranged circumferentially around a lateral cavity sidewall 14, which in turn forms a matrix portion 10 around an aerosol when the article is inserted into the cavity.

[0120] exist Figure 4 In embodiment a, the heating element comprises a single heating element 16. The heater assembly is configured such that, upon activation of the heating element 16, the portion of the aerosol-forming matrix surrounded by the single heating element 16 is first heated. Thus, upon activation of the heating element, an initial non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral sidewall of the article. The thermal mass and thermal conductivity of the lateral cavity sidewall 14 are selected such that, upon activation of the heating element 16, the portion of the cavity sidewall 14 surrounded by the single heating element 16 is first heated to a target temperature, and then, by means of heat conduction via the lateral cavity sidewall 14, after a certain time interval (e.g., a time interval of 5 to 25 seconds) since the heating element 16 has been activated, the portions of the lateral cavity sidewall 14 proximal and distal to the portion surrounded by the heating element 16 are heated to the target temperature. Preferably, the lateral cavity sidewall 14 is formed of a stainless steel tube.

[0121] exist Figure 4In embodiment b, the heating element includes three heating sections 16a, 16b, and 16c disposed at different longitudinal positions relative to the longitudinal axis 12. The heater assembly is configured such that, upon activation of the heating sections 16a, 16b, and 16c, the portion of the aerosol-forming matrix surrounded by the single heating sections 16a, 16b, and 16c is first heated, and an initial non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article.

[0122] exist Figure 4 In embodiment c, the heating element includes two heating sections 16a and 16b, which are of different sizes and positioned at different longitudinal locations relative to the longitudinal axis 12. For example, heating section 16a can be activated from the outset, while heating section 16b cannot. Once the hot vapor has been gradually evacuated from the aerosol-forming matrix, heating section 16b can also be gradually activated to ensure a uniform temperature distribution along the lateral cavity sidewall 14.

[0123] exist Figure 4 In embodiment d, the heating element includes four heating sections 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, which are positioned at different longitudinal locations relative to the longitudinal axis 12 and optionally have different sizes. For example, heating sections 16a and 16c can be activated from the outset, while heating sections 16b and 16d cannot. Once the hot vapor has been gradually evacuated from the aerosol-forming matrix, heating sections 16b and 16d can also be gradually activated to ensure a uniform temperature distribution along the lateral cavity sidewall 14.

[0124] Figure 5 A through 5c show the heater assembly. Figure 5 In embodiment a, the heating element includes six heating sections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f disposed at different longitudinal positions relative to the longitudinal axis 12. For example, heating sections 16a, 16c, and 16e can be activated from the outset, while heating sections 16b, 16d, and 16f cannot.

[0125] In terms of manufacturing, Figure 5 The heater configuration of a can be achieved by connecting heating strips for each heater section 16a-16f to, as shown in... Figure 5 The common vertical connector 22 indicated in b, or as in Figure 5 c indicates that, by surrounding the lateral cavity sidewall (in Figure 5 (not shown in c) can be obtained by alternatively winding a heating strip.

[0126] Figure 6 a to 6c and Figure 7 Sectional views of the heater assembly are shown in a perspective view (left-hand side) and a side view (right-hand side) from 7a to 7c.

[0127] Figure 6 and 7 The heater assembly is configured to receive a flat article comprising a rectangular cross-section of an aerosol-forming matrix portion 10 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12. The lateral cavity sidewall 14 includes two opposing main boundary surfaces 14a, 14b. The two opposing main boundary surfaces 14a, 14b may be made of stainless steel sheet and partially covered by the heating element 16. The heating element 16 may include one or more conductive rails. The heating element 16 may include, as in... Figure 6 Several heating sections 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d are shown in the heater assemblies of a, 6b, 7a, 7b, and 7c.

[0128] exist Figure 6 and 7 In this embodiment, the heating element only partially covers the two opposing main boundary surfaces 14a, 14b. In this way, the portions of the two opposing main boundary surfaces 14a, 14b that do not have heating elements on top experience a heating delay relative to the portions that do have heating elements, as explained with reference to the previously described embodiment (where the heater has a cylindrical configuration). For the first suction, an initial non-uniform temperature distribution can be provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article when the heating element is activated.

Claims

1. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus, the heater assembly comprising: A cavity for receiving an article, the article including an aerosol-forming matrix portion comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, the cavity including a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and a lateral cavity sidewall for surrounding the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming matrix portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity; and Heating element, The heating element is arranged around a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall, such that during use, Only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming matrix portion of the article is covered by the heating element to provide an initial non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating element is activated.

2. The heater assembly of claim 1, wherein the heating element is a resistance heating element.

3. The heater assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the heating element is configured to be continuously heated during multiple suction cycles.

4. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide a temperature difference across the lateral sidewall of the article, the temperature difference being between 5 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, preferably between 10 degrees Celsius and 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 20 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 25 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, and even more preferably between 30 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius.

5. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide an initial temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewall, the initial temperature difference being between 5 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, preferably between 10 degrees Celsius and 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 20 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably between 25 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, and even more preferably between 30 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius.

6. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element is arranged around only a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall, such that during use, less than 95%, preferably less than 90%, more preferably less than 85%, more preferably less than 80%, more preferably less than 75%, more preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 65%, more preferably less than 60%, more preferably less than 55%, more preferably less than 50% of the total area of ​​the lateral sidewall of the aerosol forming matrix portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

7. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element is arranged around only a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall, such that during use, 15% to 95%, preferably 15% to 95%, more preferably 20% to 90%, more preferably 25% to 85%, and more preferably 50% to 85% of the total area of ​​the lateral sidewall of the aerosol forming matrix portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

8. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element covers less than 95%, preferably less than 90%, more preferably less than 85%, more preferably less than 80%, more preferably less than 75%, more preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 65%, more preferably less than 60%, more preferably less than 55%, and more preferably less than 50% of the total area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall.

9. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element covers 15% to 95%, preferably 15% to 95%, more preferably 20% to 90%, more preferably 25% to 85%, and more preferably 50% to 85% of the total area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall.

10. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element extends radially around 60% to 90%, preferably 65% ​​to 85%, more preferably 70% to 80% of the periphery of the lateral cavity sidewall.

11. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element extends at least 80%, preferably at least 85%, more preferably at least 90%, and even more preferably at least 95% of the length of the lateral cavity sidewall in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

12. The heater assembly of claim 11, wherein the heating element comprises a first heating section and a second heating section disposed on opposite sides of the lateral cavity sidewall, each of the first heating section and the second heating section extending radially around the periphery of the lateral cavity sidewall for 10% to 45%, preferably 15% to 40%, more preferably 30% to 40%.

13. The heater assembly of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall not covered by the heating element has a width of more than 2 mm in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

14. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall comprises a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

15. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall includes opposing first and second main boundary surfaces, the first and second main boundary surfaces of the cavity extending in a facing parallel relationship and defining a main flow axis for fluid to flow through the cavity along the longitudinal axis.

16. The heater assembly of claim 15, wherein the heating element comprises a first planar heating section disposed on a first main boundary surface of the lateral cavity sidewall and a second planar heating section disposed on a second main boundary surface of the lateral cavity sidewall.

17. The heater assembly of claim 16, wherein the first planar heating section and the second planar heating section are disposed at different longitudinal positions relative to the longitudinal axis.

18. The heater assembly of claim 15, wherein the heating element is disposed only on the first main boundary surface of the lateral cavity sidewall, and wherein the second main boundary surface does not include the heating element.

19. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall comprises a metal tube, and wherein the heating element is a flexible heating element disposed on the outer wall of the metal tube, preferably wherein the metal tube is a stainless steel tube.

20. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall is formed of a low thermal conductivity material, preferably a polymer material, more preferably polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

21. The heater assembly of claim 20, wherein the portion of the lateral cavity sidewall formed of the low thermal conductivity material is not covered by the heating element.

22. The heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element comprises two parallel-connected resistance heating rails disposed on an electrically insulating substrate.

23. An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising a heater assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

24. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 23, further comprising a controller for controlling the power supply to the heating element, the controller being configured to supply power to the heating element such that a non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral cavity sidewall for initial suction, and a more uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral cavity sidewall for subsequent suction. The maximum temperature difference across the non-uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the more uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity.

25. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to claim 23 or claim 24 and an article comprising an aerosol forming matrix.

26. A method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, the method comprising: Provide an aerosol generation system according to claim 25; For the initial suction, a non-uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article; as well as For subsequent suction, a more uniform temperature distribution is provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article. The maximum temperature difference across the non-uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the more uniform temperature distribution across the sidewall of the lateral cavity.

27. A method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, the method comprising: Provide an aerosol generation system according to claim 25; Only the first heating section of the heating element is heated to provide a first non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article; and subsequently, Only the second heating section of the heating element is heated to provide a second non-uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewalls of the article; and subsequently, Simultaneously heating both the first heating section and the second heating section of the heating element to provide a more uniform temperature distribution across the lateral sidewall of the article; The maximum temperature difference between each of the first and second non-uniform temperature distributions spanning the sidewall of the lateral cavity exceeds the maximum temperature difference of the more uniform temperature distribution spanning the sidewall of the lateral cavity.

28. The aerosol generation system of claim 25 is used to reduce the initial extraction of hot vapor by means of a non-uniform temperature distribution provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article after activation of the heating element.

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