Aerosol-generating device with two cavities and a susceptor element

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating device (100). The device comprises a first cavity (150) configured for receiving a first planar aerosol-forming substrate. The device comprises a second cavity (152) configured for receiving a second planar aerosol-forming substrate. The device comprises an airflow channel (148) and an induction heating arrangement comprising a susceptor element (138). The susceptor element is arranged between the first cavity and the second cavity The susceptor element is configured to at least partially define the airflow channel. The susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel. The susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel.

Description

[0001] AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE WITH TWO CAVITIES AND A SUSCEPTOR ELEMENT

[0002] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device and an aerosolgenerating system.

[0003] It is known to provide an aerosol-generating device for generating an inhalable vapor. Such devices may heat aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate are volatilised without burning the aerosolforming substrate. Aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as part of an aerosolgenerating article. The aerosol-generating article may have a rod shape for insertion of the aerosol-generating article into a cavity, such as a heating chamber, of the aerosol-generating device. A heating element may be 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.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system with an improved heating efficiency. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system providing improved aerosol generation. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system providing an adaptable user experience. It would be desirable to provide an aerosolgenerating system providing an improved airflow through the system. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system which can be more efficiently manufactured. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating device enabling use of multiple aerosolforming substrates.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an aerosol-generating device. The device comprises a first cavity configured for receiving a first planar aerosolforming substrate. The device comprises a second cavity configured for receiving a second planar aerosol-forming substrate. The device comprises an airflow channel. The device comprises an induction heating arrangement comprising a susceptor element. The susceptor element is arranged between the first cavity and the second cavity. The susceptor element is configured to at least partially define the airflow channel. The susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel. The susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided an aerosol-generating device. The device may comprise a first cavity configured for receiving a first planar aerosolforming substrate. The device may comprise a second cavity configured for receiving a second planar aerosol-forming substrate. The device may comprise an airflow channel. The device may comprise an induction heating arrangement comprising a susceptor element. The susceptor element may be arranged between the first cavity and the second cavity. The susceptor element may be configured to at least partially define the airflow channel. The susceptor element may be configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel. The susceptor element may be configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel.

[0007] The first cavity may be planar. The second cavity may be planar. The susceptor element may be planar. The airflow channel may be planar. At least a portion of the airflow channel may be planar. The first cavity may have a rectangular cross-section. The second cavity may have a rectangular cross-section. The susceptor element may have a rectangular cross-section. The airflow channel may have a rectangular cross-section. One or more of the first cavity, the second cavity, the susceptor element and the airflow channel may be flat.

[0008] The susceptor element may be configured for directing fluid flow from the first cavity to the airflow channel. The susceptor element may be configured for directing fluid flow from the second cavity to the airflow channel. The susceptor element may be porous.

[0009] The susceptor element may be sandwiched between the first cavity and the second cavity. The first cavity may be arranged radially outward of the susceptor element. The second cavity may be arranged radially outward of the susceptor element. The first cavity may be arranged radially outward of the airflow channel. The second cavity may be arranged radially outward of the airflow channel. The susceptor element may surround at least a portion of the airflow channel.

[0010] The first aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a first aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a second aerosol-generating article. The first cavity may be configured for receiving the first aerosol-generating article. The second cavity may be configured for receiving the second aerosol-generating article.

[0011] The susceptor element may be configured to heat the first aerosol-forming substrate inserted in the first cavity. The susceptor element may be configured to heat the first aerosolforming article inserted in the first cavity. The susceptor element may be configured to heat the second aerosol-forming substrate inserted in the first cavity. The susceptor element may be configured to heat the second aerosol-forming article inserted in the first cavity.

[0012] The aerosol-generating device may enable tuning the user experience. The aerosolgenerating device may enable the consumer to individualise the user experience. The aerosol-generating device may provide optimised heat transfer to one or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may enable control of airflow management through the device. The aerosolgenerating device may optimise aerosol generation. The aerosol-generating device may optimise aerosol delivery.

[0013] By providing a first cavity and a second cavity, provision of a first user experience and second user experience may be enabled. By providing a first cavity and a second cavity, the user may be enabled to choose between a first user experience and a second user experience. By providing a first cavity and a second cavity, the user may be enabled to tune the user experience. By providing a first cavity and a second cavity, airflow management with respect to the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may be controlled independently.

[0014] The first cavity may comprise a first cavity opening configured for inserting the first aerosol-forming substrate. The second cavity may comprise a second cavity opening configured for inserting the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0015] The airflow channel may comprise an airflow channel opening. The airflow channel opening may be arranged at a downstream end of the airflow channel.

[0016] The first cavity opening may have a substantially rectangular cross-section. The second cavity opening may have a substantially rectangular cross-section.

[0017] The susceptor element may comprise a wall. The wall of the susceptor element may comprises at least a first wall portion and a second wall portion. The wall may be configured to define the airflow channel.

[0018] The first wall portion and the second wall portion may be connected. The first wall portion and the second wall portion may be separate. The first wall portion and the second wall portion may be separated by an air gap.

[0019] The first wall portion may be planar. The second wall portion may be planar. The first wall portion may be sheet. The second wall portion may be sheet. The first wall portion may have a rectangular cross-section. The second wall portion may have a rectangular crosssection.

[0020] The first wall portion and the second wall portion may define at least a portion of the airflow channel. The first wall portion and the second wall portion may surround at least a portion of the airflow channel. The first wall portion and the second wall portion may sandwich the airflow channel. The first wall portion and the second wall portion may define the shape of the airflow channel.

[0021] The first wall portion may be arranged radially outward of the airflow channel. The second wall portion may be arranged radially outward of the airflow channel. The first cavity may be arranged radially outward of the first wall portion. The second cavity may be arranged radially outward of the second wall portion. The first cavity may be arranged radially outward of the airflow channel. The second cavity may be arranged radially outward of the airflow channel.

[0022] The first wall portion of the susceptor element may be configured to heat the first aerosol-forming substrate inserted in the first cavity. The first wall portion of the susceptor element may be configured to heat the first aerosol-generating article inserted in the first cavity. The second wall portion of the susceptor element may be configured to heat the second aerosol-forming substrate inserted in the second cavity. The second wall portion of the susceptor element may be configured to heat the second aerosol-generating article inserted in the second cavity.

[0023] The first wall portion may comprise one or more openings configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel. The second wall portion may comprise one or more openings configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel.

[0024] The openings in the first wall portion may each perforate the first wall portion. The openings in the second wall portion may each perforate the second wall portion.

[0025] The first wall portion may be arranged abutting the first cavity. The second wall portion may be arranged abutting the second cavity. The first wall portion may be arranged adjacent to the first cavity. The second wall portion may be arranged adjacent to the first cavity. The first wall portion may line at least a portion of the airflow channel. The second wall portion may line at least a portion of the airflow channel. The first wall portion may be arranged to contact the first cavity. The second wall portion may be arranged to contact the second cavity. The first wall portion may be arranged to contact the first aerosol-generating article. The second wall portion may be arranged to contact the second aerosol-generating article.

[0026] The induction heating arrangement may comprise a first induction coil and a second induction coil. The induction heating arrangement may comprise a first planar induction coil. The induction heating arrangement may comprise a second planar induction coil.

[0027] The first induction coil may be configured to heat the first wall portion of the susceptor element. The second induction coil may be configured to heat the second wall portion of the susceptor element.

[0028] The first induction coil may be cuboid-shaped. The first induction coil may have a rectangular cross-section. The second induction coil may be cuboid-shaped. The second induction coil may have a rectangular cross-section.

[0029] The first induction coil may be arranged abutting the first cavity. The second induction coil may be arranged abutting the second cavity. The first induction coil may line at least a portion of the first cavity. The second induction coil may line at least a portion of the second cavity. The first induction coil may be arranged parallel to one or both of the first wall portion and the airflow channel. The second induction coil may be arranged parallel to one or both of the second wall portion and the airflow channel. The first induction coil may be arranged adjacent to the first cavity. The second induction coil may be arranged adjacent to the second cavity.

[0030] The first induction coil and the second induction coil may sandwich the first cavity, second cavity, susceptor element and airflow channel. The first cavity, the second cavity, the susceptor element, and the airflow channel may be arranged between the first induction coil and the second induction coil.

[0031] The device may be configured such that the first induction coil and the second induction coil are independently controllable. The device may be configured such that the first induction coil and the second induction coil are independently operable.

[0032] The device may comprise a controller. The first induction coil may be connected to the controller. The second induction coil may be connected to the controller. The controller may be configured to operate the first induction coil. The controller may be configured to operate the second induction coil. The controller may be configured to operate the first induction coil independently from the second induction coil. The controller may be configured to control a first power supply to the first induction coil. The controller may be configured to control a second power supply to the second induction coil. The first power supply may be different to the second power supply. The first power supply may be different to the second power supply in terms of one or more of intensity and timing. The controller may be configured to provide a first heating profile to the first induction coil. The controller may be configured to provide a second heating profile to the second induction coil. The first heating profile may be different to the second heating profile.

[0033] The first induction coil may be configured for heating the first wall portion. The first induction coil may be configured to generate an alternating magnetic field penetrating the first wall portion. The second induction coil may be configured for heating the second wall portion. The second induction coil may be configured to generate an alternating magnetic field penetrating the second wall portion.

[0034] The susceptor element may be centrally arranged. The first cavity may be arranged radially outward of the susceptor element The first induction coil may be arranged radially outward of the first cavity. The second cavity may be arranged radially outward of the susceptor element. The second cavity may be arranged opposite to the first cavity. The second induction coil may be arranged radially outward of the second cavity.

[0035] The first induction coil, the first cavity, the first wall portion, the airflow channel, the second wall portion, the second cavity and the second induction coil may be arranged parallel to each other.

[0036] The device may comprise an air inlet. The device may comprise a first airflow conduit. The device may comprise a second airflow conduit. The device may comprise a third airflow conduit. The first airflow conduit may be configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the first cavity. The second airflow conduit may be configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the second cavity. The third airflow conduit may be configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the airflow channel. The first cavity may be arranged downstream of the first airflow conduit. The second cavity may be arranged downstream of the second airflow conduit. The airflow channel may be arranged downstream of the third airflow conduit.

[0037] The first airflow conduit may be arranged parallel with the second airflow conduit. The first airflow conduit may be arranged parallel with the third airflow conduit. The second airflow conduit may be arranged parallel with the third airflow conduit.

[0038] One or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel may be cuboid-shaped.

[0039] The device may comprise a main body comprising one or both of a controller and a power supply. The main body may comprise the housing.

[0040] The controller may be configured to supply power from the power supply to the first induction coil. The controller may be configured to supply power from the power supply to the second induction coil.

[0041] The main body may comprise a data port. The data port may be connected to an external device to transfer data between the aerosol-generating device and the external device. The main body may comprise a recharging port. The recharging port may be connected to an external source of electrical energy to recharge the power supply.

[0042] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length of between 10 millimetres and 30 millimetres, a width of between 7 millimetres and 17 millimetres and a height of between 1 millimetre and 5 millimetres.

[0043] A longitudinal axis of one or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel may be arranged parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0044] A longitudinal axis of a component may be an axis along or parallel to the lengthwise direction of the component. A longitudinal axis of the device may extend between the distal end and the proximal end of the device. A longitudinal axis of the article may extend between the distal end and the proximal end of the article.

[0045] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a mouthpiece.

[0046] The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece. Alternatively, the airflow channel may be arranged abutting the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may comprise a housing.

[0047] The mouthpiece may comprise a chamber. The chamber may be arranged downstream of one or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel.

[0048] The chamber may be in fluid communication with one or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel. Alternatively, the airflow channel may comprise the chamber. The chamber may be in direct fluid communication with one or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel. The first cavity may be fluidly connected to the mouthpiece via the first cavity opening. The second cavity may be fluidly connected to the mouthpiece via the second cavity opening. The airflow channel may be fluidly connected to the mouthpiece via the airflow channel opening. The airflow channel opening may abut the mouthpiece. The airflow channel opening may abut the chamber of the mouthpiece.

[0049] The chamber of the mouthpiece may be configured for one or more of mixing, homogenizing and cooling volatized aerosol-forming substrate of one or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0050] The airflow channel may comprise an opening fluidly connected to the mouthpiece.

[0051] The mouthpiece may comprise an aerosol outflow channel.

[0052] The device may comprise the first cavity opening and the second cavity opening. One or more of the airflow channel opening, the first cavity opening and the second cavity opening may be fluidly connected to the chamber of the mouthpiece.

[0053] The first cavity opening may abut the mouthpiece. The first cavity opening may abut the chamber of the mouthpiece. The second cavity opening may abut the mouthpiece. The second cavity opening may abut the chamber of the mouthpiece.

[0054] The device may comprise an intermediate section comprising the first cavity, the second cavity, the airflow channel, and the induction heating arrangement. The intermediate section may be removably connectable with the mouthpiece and the main body. The mouthpiece may be hermetically connected to the intermediate section.

[0055] The intermediate section may comprise the first induction coil. The intermediate section may comprise the second induction coil. The intermediate section may comprise a housing. The intermediate section may comprise the susceptor element. The intermediate section may comprise the air inlet. The intermediate section may comprise one or more of the first airflow conduit, the second airflow conduit and the third airflow conduit.

[0056] The intermediate section may be removably connectable to the main body. The intermediate section may be removably connectable to the mouthpiece.

[0057] The intermediate section may comprise a downstream end. The intermediate section may comprise an upstream end. The mouthpiece may removably connectable to the downstream end of intermediate section. The main body may removably connectable to the upstream end of intermediate section.

[0058] The main body may comprise a power supply connector. The intermediate section may comprise a power supply connector. The power supply connector of the main body may be configured complimentary to a power supply connector on the intermediate section. The power supply connector of the main body may be in contact with the power supply connector of the intermediate section when the main body is connected to the intermediate section. The power supply connector of the main body and the power supply connector of the intermediate section may electrically connect the power supply with one or both of the first induction coil and the second induction coil. Power may be delivered through the power supply connector of the main body and the power supply connector of the intermediate section from the power supply to one or both of the first induction coil and the second induction coil.

[0059] The main body may have a length of between 30 millimeters and 70 millimeters. The main body may have a width of between 12 millimeters and 35 millimeters. The main body may have a height of between 5 millimeters and 15 millimeters.

[0060] The intermediate section may have a length of between 20 millimeters and 45 millimeters. The intermediate section may have a width of between 12 millimeters and 35 millimeters. The intermediate section may have a height of between 5 millimeters and 15 millimeters.

[0061] The mouthpiece may have a length of between 15 millimeters and 40 millimeters. The intermediate section may have a width of between 12 millimeters and 35 millimeters. The intermediate section may have a height of between 5 millimeters and 15 millimeters.

[0062] One or both of the intermediate section and the mouthpiece may comprise a polymeric material. One or both of the intermediate section and the mouthpiece may be made from a polymeric material.

[0063] The airflow channel may have a length of between 7 millimeters and 21 millimeters. The airflow channel may have a width of between 7 millimeters and 17 millimeters. The airflow channel may have a height of between 1.5 millimeters and 3.5 millimeters.

[0064] The susceptor element may comprise a ferromagnetic alloy. The susceptor element may consist of a ferromagnetic alloy. The susceptor element may comprise stainless steel. The susceptor element may consist of stainless steel. The susceptor element may comprise a medical grade stainless steel alloy (200 series alloy). The susceptor element may consist of a medical grade stainless steel alloy (200 series alloy).

[0065] In a second aspect, the invention relates to an aerosol-generating system. The system comprises an aerosol-generating device as described herein. The system comprises a first aerosol-forming substrate, preferably a first planar aerosol-forming substrate.

[0066] In a second embodiment, the invention relates to an aerosol-generating system. The system comprises an aerosol-generating device as described herein. The system may comprise a first aerosol-forming substrate, preferably a first planar aerosol-forming substrate.

[0067] The system may comprise a second aerosol-forming substrate, preferably a second planar aerosol-forming substrate.

[0068] The first aerosol-forming substrate may be flat. The second aerosol-forming substrate may be flat. The first aerosol-generating article may be flat. The second aerosol-generating article may be flat. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be cuboid-shaped. The first aerosol-forming substrate may have a rectangular cross-section. The second aerosol- forming substrate may be cuboid-shaped. The second aerosol-forming substrate may have a rectangular cross-section. By using one or both of planar aerosol-forming substrates and planar articles, the heating efficiency may be improved. By using one or both of planar aerosol-forming substrates and planar articles, the dimensions of the aerosol-generating device may be minimised. By using one or both of planar aerosol-forming substrates and planar articles, energy consumption may be optimised.

[0069] The first aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to be different from the second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-generating article may be configured to be different from the second aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a flavor. The second aerosol-generating article may comprise a flavor.

[0070] The controller may be configured to provide a first heating profile to the first aerosolforming substrate. The controller may be configured to provide a first heating profile to the first aerosol-generating article. The controller may be configured to provide a second heating profile to the second aerosol-forming substrate. The control many configured to provide a second heating profile to the second aerosol-generating article.

[0071] The system may comprise an aerosol-generating device described herein, a first aerosol-forming substrate as described herein and a second aerosol-forming substrate as described herein. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to provide a first user experience. The second aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to provide a second user experience. The first user experience may be different to the second user experience. Power may be provided to the first induction coil to provide the first experience. A first heating profile may be provided to the first wall portion of the susceptor element. The first heating profile may be adapted to the characteristics of the first aerosol-forming substrate. Power may be provided to the second induction coil to provide the second experience. A second heating profile may be provided to the second wall portion of the susceptor element. The second heating profile may be adapted to the characteristics of the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0072] A third user experience may be provided by providing power to both the first induction coil and the second induction coil. The third user experience may be a combination of the first user experience and the second user experience. The third user experience may be tuned by adapting one or both of the first heating profile and the second heating profile. The third user experience may be adapted to the individual preferences of the consumer.

[0073] The first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may have the same configuration.

[0074] The first aerosol-forming substrate may be shaped to closely conform to the shape of the first cavity. The second aerosol-forming substrate may be shaped to closely conform to the shape of the second cavity. The first aerosol-forming substrate may form part of a first aerosol-generating article. The first aerosol-generating article may be a first planar aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-forming substrate may form part of a second aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-generating article may be a second planar aerosol-generating article. The first aerosol-generating article may be shaped to closely conform to the shape of the first cavity. The second aerosol-generating article may be shaped to closely conform to the shape of the second cavity.

[0075] The first aerosol-generating article may be cuboid-shaped. The first aerosolgenerating article may have a rectangular cross-section. The second aerosol-generating article may be cuboid-shaped. The second aerosol-generating article may have a rectangular cross-section.

[0076] The first aerosol-forming substrate may be porous. The second aerosol-forming substrate may be porous. The first aerosol-generating article may be porous. The second aerosol-generating article may be porous. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to allow an airflow through the substrate. At least a portion of the airflow through the first cavity may flow through at least a portion of one or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the first aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to allow an airflow through the substrate. At least a portion of the airflow through the second cavity may flow through at least a portion of one or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the first aerosol-generating article.

[0077] The invention allows the user to flexibly adapt the user experience. For example, the user may insert a first aerosol-generating article comprising a first aerosol-forming substrate having particular first characteristics, such as first flavour or a first nicotine content, if a user experience having such first characteristic is desired. Alternatively, the user may insert a second aerosol-generating article comprising a second aerosol-forming substrate having particular second characteristics, such as second flavour or a second nicotine content, if the user experience having such second characteristics is desired. Alternatively, if the user desires a combination of the first characteristics and the second characteristics, the user may insert both the first aerosol-generating article and the second aerosol-generating article. The ratio between the first characteristics and the second characteristics may be adjusted by adapting the heating profile of the first wall portion of the susceptor element and the second first wall portion of the susceptor element. For example, if a user experience having predominantly the first characteristic is desired, one or both of the intensity of the power supply and the length of the power supply to the first induction coil may be increased, while one or both of the intensity of the power supply and the length of the power supply to the second induction coil may be decreased. In use, the consumer may insert one or both of the first aerosol-generating article and the second aerosol-generating article in the device. The user may draw on the device to pull in air through the air inlet of the device. The airflow may be distributed between one or more of the first cavity, second cavity, and the airflow channel. The first wall portion may heat the first aerosol-forming substrate inserted into the first cavity to volatize at least a portion of the first substrate. The second wall portion may heat the second aerosol-forming substrate inserted into the second cavity to volatize at a least a portion of the second substrate. At least a portion of the volatized first substrate may flow into the mouthpiece chamber via the first cavity opening. At least a portion of the volatized second substrate may flow into the mouthpiece chamber via the second cavity opening. Another portion of the volatized first substrate may flow into the airflow channel via the openings of the first wall portion arranged between the first cavity and the airflow channel. Another portion of the volatized second substrate may flow into the airflow channel via the openings of the second wall portion arranged between the second cavity and the airflow channel. Such volatized substrates may mix in the airflow channel with airflow directly entering the airflow channel via the third airflow conduit. The mixture of the airflow channel may flow into the mouthpiece chamber via the airflow channel opening. The different airflows entering the mouthpiece chamber may mix in the chamber. The mixture may cool in the chamber to form an aerosol. The aerosol may be inhaled by the consumer through the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0078] The first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may be selected according to one or more of (i) the first aerosol-forming substrate being shaped to closely conform to the shape of the first cavity and the second aerosol-forming substrate being shaped to closely conform to the shape of the second cavity, (ii) the first aerosolforming substrate having a first flavor and the second aerosol-forming substrate having a second flavor, (iii) the first aerosol-forming substrate comprising nicotine and the second aerosol-forming substrate comprising a flavor, (iv) the first aerosol-forming substrate being configured to be provided with a first heating profile and the second aerosol-forming substrate being configured to be provided with a second heating profile, and (v) the first aerosol-forming substrate being configured to provide a first user experience and the second aerosol-forming substrate being configured to provide a second user experience.

[0079] The first aerosol-forming substrate may be differently shaped to the second aerosolforming substrate. The first flavor may be different to the second flavor. The first heating profile may be different to the second heating profile. The first user experience may be different to second user experience.

[0080] As used herein, the terms ‘proximal’, ‘distal’, ‘downstream’ and ‘upstream’ are used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the aerosol- generating device in relation to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol-generating device during use thereof.

[0081] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a mouth end through which in use an aerosol exits the aerosol-generating device and is delivered to a user. The mouth end may also be referred to as the proximal end. In use, a user draws on the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol-generating device in order to inhale an aerosol generated by the aerosolgenerating device. The mouthpiece may be positioned at the mouth end. The aerosolgenerating device comprises a distal end opposed to the proximal or mouth end. The main body may be positioned at the distal end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosolgenerating device may also be referred to as the downstream end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating device may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on their relative positions between the proximal, downstream or mouth end and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0082] 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 may be part of an aerosol-generating article, for example part of a smoking article. An aerosolgenerating device may be a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user’s lungs thorough the user's mouth. An aerosol-generating device may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a housing, electric circuitry, a power supply and an induction heating arrangement.

[0083] As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term ‘smoking’ with reference to a device, article, system, substrate, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which an aerosol-forming substrate is fully or at least partially combusted. The aerosol-generating device of the present invention is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below a combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate, but at or above a temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosolforming substrate are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0084] The aerosol-generating device may comprise electric circuitry. The electric circuitry may comprise a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of the controller. The electric circuitry may comprise further electronic components. The electric circuitry may be configured to regulate a supply of power to the induction heating arrangement. Power may be supplied to the induction heating arrangement continuously following activation of the aerosol-generating device or may be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff-by-puff basis. The power may be supplied to the induction heating arrangement in the form of pulses of electrical current. The electric circuitry may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of one or both of the first wall portion and the second wall portion, and preferably to control the supply of power to one or both of the first induction coil and the second induction coil dependent on the electrical resistance of the first wall portion and the second wall portion.

[0085] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply, typically a battery, within the main body of the aerosol-generating device. In one embodiment, the power supply is a Lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmium battery, or a Lithium based battery, for example a Lithium-Cobalt, a Lithium-lron-Phosphate, Lithium Titanate or a Lithium-Polymer battery. The power supply may be a Lithium-ion polymer battery. As an alternative, the power supply may be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. The power supply may be a supercapacitor. The power supply may be a hyper-capacitor. The power supply may require recharging and may have a capacity that enables to store enough energy for one or more usage experiences; for example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosol for a period of around six minutes or for a period of a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activations of the heating element.

[0086] The first cavity opening may be a proximal end. The second cavity opening may be a proximal end. The first cavity may comprise a base opposite to the first cavity opening. The second cavity may comprise a base opposite to the second cavity opening. The first cavity base may be closed except for the provision of the first air flow conduit arranged at the base. The second cavity base may be closed except for the provision of the second airflow conduit arranged at the base. The base of the first cavity may be flat. The base of the second cavity may be flat. The base of the first cavity may be rectangular. The base of the second cavity may be rectangular. The base of the first cavity may be arranged upstream of the first cavity. The base of the second cavity may be arranged upstream of the second cavity. The first cavity opening may be arranged downstream of the first cavity. The second cavity opening may be arranged downstream of the second cavity. The first cavity may have an elongate extension. The second cavity may have an elongate extension. The first cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The second cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. A longitudinal direction may be the direction extending between the cavity opening and the base along the longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal central axis of the first cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. The longitudinal central axis of the second cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. The airflow channel may comprise a base. The airflow channel base may be closed expect for the provision of the third airflow conduit. The airflow channel base may be flat. The airflow channel cavity may rectangular. The airflow channel base may be arranged at upstream of the airflow channel. The airflow channel may have an elongate extension. The airflow channel may have a longitudinal axis.

[0087] The first cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The second cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The first cavity may have a hollow rectangular shape. The second cavity may have a hollow rectangular shape. The first cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first aerosol-generating article to be received in the first cavity. The second cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second aerosol-generating article to be received in the second cavity. The first cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the first aerosol-generating article. The first cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the first aerosol-forming substrate. The second cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the second aerosol-generating article. The second cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0088] The susceptor element may be a material that is capable of generating heat, when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. The first induction coil may generate an alternating magnetic field in the first cavity. The first induction coil may generate an alternating magnetic field penetrating the first wall portion of the susceptor element. The second induction coil may generate an alternating magnetic field in the second cavity. The second induction coil may generate an alternating magnetic field penetrating the second wall portion of the susceptor element.

[0089] If the susceptor element is conductive, then typically eddy currents are induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor element is magnetic, then typically another effect that contributes to the heating is commonly referred to hysteresis losses. Hysteresis losses occur mainly due to the movement of the magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor element, because the magnetic orientation of these will align with the magnetic induction field, which alternates. Another effect contributing to the hysteresis loss is when the magnetic domains will grow or shrink within the susceptor element. Commonly all these changes in the susceptor element that happen on a nano-scale or below are referred to as “hysteresis losses”, because they produce heat in the susceptor element. Hence, if the susceptor element is both magnetic and electrically conductive, both hysteresis losses and the generation of eddy currents will contribute to the heating of the susceptor element. If the susceptor element is magnetic, but not conductive, then hysteresis losses will be the only means by which the susceptor element will heat, when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the invention, the susceptor element may be electrically conductive or magnetic or both electrically conductive and magnetic. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or several induction coils may heat the susceptor element, which then transfers the heat to the aerosol-forming substrate, such that an aerosol is formed. An alternating magnetic field generated by the first induction coil may heat the first wall portion, which then transfers the heat to the first aerosol-forming substrate. An alternating magnetic field generated by the second induction coil may heat the second wall portion, which then transfers the heat to the second aerosol-forming substrate. The heat transfer may be mainly by conduction of heat. Such a transfer of heat is best, if the susceptor element is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0090] As used herein, the term ‘aerosol-generating article’ refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. For example, an aerosol-generating article may be a smoking article that generates an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user’s lungs through the user's mouth. An aerosolgenerating article may be disposable.

[0091] As used herein, the term ‘aerosol-forming substrate’ relates to a substrate capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol-forming substrate may conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating article or smoking article.

[0092] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosolforming substrate may comprise both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds which are released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a nontobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an aerosol former that facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerine and propylene glycol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid aerosolforming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise flavouring. The aerosolforming substrate may comprise botanicals. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise cannabis for therapeutic use.

[0093] The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non- exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0094] Example 1: An aerosol-generating device comprising a first cavity configured for receiving a first planar aerosol-forming substrate, a second cavity configured for receiving a second planar aerosol-forming substrate, an airflow channel, and an induction heating arrangement comprising a susceptor element, wherein the susceptor element is arranged between the first cavity and the second cavity, wherein the susceptor element is configured to at least partially define the airflow channel, wherein the susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel, and wherein the susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel.

[0095] Example 2: The aerosol-generating device according to example 1, wherein the susceptor element is configured for directing fluid flow from the first cavity to the airflow channel and wherein the susceptor element is configured for directing fluid flow from the second cavity to the airflow channel.

[0096] Example 3: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first cavity comprises a first cavity opening configured for inserting the first aerosol-forming substrate and wherein the second cavity comprises a second cavity opening configured for inserting the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0097] Example 4: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the susceptor element comprises a wall, wherein the wall of the susceptor element comprises at least a first wall portion and a second wall portion and wherein the wall is configured to define the airflow channel.

[0098] Example 5: The aerosol-generating device according to example 4, wherein the first wall portion comprises one or more openings configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel and wherein the second wall portion comprises one or more openings configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel.

[0099] Example 6: The aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 4 and 5, wherein the first wall portion is arranged abutting the first cavity and wherein the second wall portion is arranged abutting the second cavity.

[0100] Example 7: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the induction heating arrangement comprises a first induction coil, preferably a first planar induction coil and a second induction coil, preferably a second planar induction coil.

[0101] Example 8: The aerosol-generating device according to example 7, wherein the first induction coil is arranged abutting the first cavity and wherein the second induction coil is arranged abutting the second cavity.

[0102] Example 9: The aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 7 and 8, wherein the device is configured such that the first induction coil and the second induction coil are independently controllable.

[0103] Example 10: The aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 7 to 9 comprising the susceptor element according to any of examples 4 to 6, wherein the first induction coil is configured for heating the first wall portion, and wherein the second induction coil is configured for heating the second wall portion. Example 11: The aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 7 to 10, wherein the susceptor element is centrally arranged, wherein the first cavity is arranged radially outward of the susceptor element, wherein the first induction coil is arranged radially outward of the first cavity, wherein the second cavity is arranged radially outward of the susceptor element, wherein the second cavity is arranged opposite to the first cavity, and wherein the second induction coil is arranged radially outward of the second cavity.

[0104] Example 12: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the device comprises an air inlet, wherein the device comprises a first airflow conduit, a second airflow conduit, and a third airflow conduit, wherein the first airflow conduit is configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the first cavity, wherein the second airflow conduit is configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the second cavity, and wherein the third airflow conduit is configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the airflow channel.

[0105] Example 13: The aerosol-generating device according to example 12, wherein the first cavity is arranged downstream of the first airflow conduit, wherein the second cavity is arranged downstream of the second airflow conduit, and wherein the airflow channel is arranged downstream of the third airflow conduit.

[0106] Example 14: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel are cuboid-shaped.

[0107] Example 15: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the device comprises a main body comprising one or both of a controller and a power supply.

[0108] Example 16: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a length of between 10 millimetres and 30 millimetres, a width of between 7 millimetres and 17 millimetres and a height of between 1 millimetre and 5 millimetres.

[0109] Example 17: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein a longitudinal axis of one or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel is arranged parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0110] Example 18: The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a mouthpiece.

[0111] Example 19: The aerosol-generating device according to example 18, wherein the airflow channel extends through the mouthpiece. Example 20: The aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 18 and 19, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a chamber, preferably arranged downstream of one or more of the first cavity, the second cavity and the airflow channel.

[0112] Example 21: The aerosol-generating device according to example 20, wherein the chamber of the mouthpiece is configured for one or more of mixing, homogenizing and cooling volatized aerosol-forming substrate of one or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0113] Example 22: The aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 18 to 21, wherein the airflow channel comprises an opening fluidly connected to the mouthpiece.

[0114] Example 23: The aerosol-generating device according to example 22, wherein the device comprises the first cavity opening and the second cavity opening of example 3, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises an airflow channel opening, wherein one or more of the airflow channel opening, the first cavity opening and the second cavity opening is fluidly connected to the chamber of the mouthpiece.

[0115] Example 24: The aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 18 to 23, wherein the device comprises an intermediate section comprising the first cavity, second cavity, airflow channel, and induction heating arrangement, wherein the intermediate section is removably connectable with the mouthpiece and the main body.

[0116] Example 25: An aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating device according to any of examples 1 to 24, wherein the system comprises a first aerosol-forming substrate, preferably a first planar aerosol-forming substrate.

[0117] Example 26: The aerosol-generating system of example 25, wherein the system comprises a second aerosol-forming substrate, preferably a second planar aerosol-forming substrate.

[0118] Example 27: The aerosol-generating system according to example 26, wherein the first aerosol-forming substrate is configured to be different from the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0119] Example 28: The aerosol-generating system according to example 26, wherein the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate have the same configuration.

[0120] Example 29: The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples 25 to 28, wherein the first aerosol-forming substrate is shaped to closely conform to the shape of the first cavity and wherein the second aerosol-forming substrate is shaped to closely conform to the shape of the second cavity.

[0121] Example 30: The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples 25 to 29, wherein the first aerosol-forming substrate forms part of a first aerosol-generating article, preferably a first planar aerosol-generating article and wherein the second aerosol-forming substrate forms part of a second aerosol-generating article, preferably a second planar aerosol-generating article, preferably wherein the first aerosol-generating article is shaped to closely conform to the shape of the first cavity and wherein the second aerosol-generating article is shaped to closely conform to the shape of the second cavity.

[0122] Below, there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0123] Features described in relation to one embodiment may equally be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0124] The invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0125] Fig. 1 shows an aerosol-generating device of the invention;

[0126] Fig. 2 shows an aerosol-generating device of the invention;

[0127] Fig. 3 shows a magnification of the intermediate section of Fig. 2;

[0128] Fig. 4 shows an aerosol-generating device of the invention with inserted first aerosolforming substrate and second aerosol-forming substrate;

[0129] Fig. 5 shows an aerosol-generating device of the invention with inserted first aerosolforming substrate and second aerosol-forming substrate

[0130] Fig. 6 shows an aerosol-generating device of the invention with inserted first aerosolforming substrate and second aerosol-forming substrate

[0131] Fig. 1 shows an aerosol-generating device 100 of the invention. Device 100 is shown in disassembled state. Device 100 comprises a planar main body 102. Device 100 comprises a planar intermediate section 104. Device 100 comprises a planar mouthpiece 106. Main body 102 comprises a controller (not shown) and a power supply (not shown). Intermediate section 104 comprises a planar first cavity 108 and a planar second cavity 110. Mouthpiece 106 comprises an air outlet 112.

[0132] Main body 102 may be connected to the upstream end of intermediate section 104. The downstream end of intermediate section 104 may be connected to the upstream end of mouthpiece 106.

[0133] Fig. 2 shows aerosol-generating device 100 of the invention. Device 100 is shown disassembled. Device 100 comprises a planar main body 102. Device 100 comprises a planar intermediate section 104. Device 100 comprises a planar mouthpiece 106.

[0134] Main body 102 comprises a controller 114. Main body 102 comprises a power supply 116. Main body 102 comprises a housing 118. Main body 102 comprises a power and data port 120. Mouthpiece 106 comprises a housing 122. Mouthpiece 106 comprises a chamber 124. Mouthpiece 106 comprises an aerosol outflow channel 126.

[0135] As indicated by arrow 130, the downstream end of main body 102 may be connected to the upstream end of intermediate section 104. As indicated by arrow 132, the downstream end of intermediate section 104 may be connected to the upstream end of mouthpiece 106.

[0136] Main body 102 comprises a power supply connector 134. Intermediate section 104 comprises a power supply connector 136. Power supply connector 134 of main body 102 is configured complimentary to power supply connector 136 of intermediate section 104. When main body 102 is connected to intermediate section 104, power supply connector 134 and the power supply connector 136 are in contact. In use, power may be supplied from battery 116 of main body 102 to intermediate section 104 via the connection between power supply connector 134 and power supply connector 136.

[0137] Fig. 3 shows a magnified view of intermediate section 104 of Fig. 2. Intermediate section 104 comprises a susceptor element 138. Susceptor element 138 is planar. Susceptor element 138 comprises a first wall portion 140. Susceptor element 138 comprises a second wall portion 142. First wall portion 140 comprises first openings 144. Second wall portion 142 comprises second openings 146. Intermediate section 104 comprises an airflow channel 148. First wall portion 140 and second wall portion 142 enclose airflow channel 148. First wall portion 140 and second wall portion 142 form airflow channel 148. Airflow channel 148 is arranged between fist wall portion 140 and second wall portion 142. Airflow channel 148 is planar. Intermediate section 104 comprises a first cavity opening 178. Intermediate section 104 comprises an airflow channel opening 178. Intermediate section 104 comprises a second cavity opening 182.

[0138] Intermediate section 104 comprises a first cavity 150. First cavity 150 is planar. Intermediate section 104 comprises a second cavity 152. Second cavity 152 is planar. First cavity 150 is configured to receive a first aerosol-forming substrate (not shown). Second cavity 152 is configured to receive a second aerosol-forming substrate (not shown). First cavity 150 abuts first wall portion 140. Second cavity 152 abuts second wall portion 142. First openings 144 fluidly connect first cavity 150 with airflow channel 148. First openings 144 may direct airflow from the first cavity 150 to the airflow channel 148. Second openings 146 fluidly connect second cavity 152 with airflow channel 148. Second openings 146 may direct airflow from second cavity 152 to airflow channel 148.

[0139] Intermediate section 104 comprises a first induction coil 154. First induction coil 154 is a planar induction coil. Intermediate section 104 comprises a second induction coil 156. Second induction coil 156 is a planar induction coil. First induction coil 154 abuts first cavity 150. Second induction coil 156 abuts second cavity 152. Intermediate section 104 comprises an air inlet 158. Intermediate section 104 comprises a first airflow conduit 160. First airflow conduit 160 is fluidly connected with air inlet 158. First airflow conduit 160 is fluidly connected with first cavity 150. First airflow conduit 160 fluidly connects air inlet 158 the first cavity 150. Intermediate section 104 comprises a second airflow conduit 162. Second airflow conduit 162 is fluidly connected with air inlet 158. Second airflow conduit 162 is fluidly connected with second cavity 152. Second airflow conduit 162 fluidly connects air inlet 158 with second cavity 152. Intermediate section 104 comprises a third airflow conduit 164. Third airflow conduit 164 is fluidly connected with the air inlet 158. Third airflow conduit 164 is fluidly connected with airflow channel 148. Third airflow conduit 164 fluidly connects air inlet 158 with airflow channel 148.

[0140] Intermediate section 104 may comprise shielding 166. Intermediate section 104 comprises a housing 168. Air inlet 158 may be an opening in housing 168.

[0141] In use, a first aerosol-forming substrate or a first aerosol-generating article comprising the first aerosol-forming substrate may be inserted into first cavity 150. Additionally or alternatively, a second aerosol-forming substrate or a second aerosol-generating article comprising the second aerosol-forming substrate may be inserted into second cavity 152. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be different to the second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be porous. The second aerosol-forming substrate may be porous. Main body 102 may be connected to intermediate section 104. Mouthpiece 106 may be connected to intermediate section 104. Power may be supplied to first induction coil 154 to heat first wall portion 140. Power may be supplied to second induction coil 156 to heat second wall portion 142. The power supply to first induction coil 154 may be independent from the power supply to second induction coil 156. First wall portion 150 may heat the first aerosol-forming substrate. The heating action of the first wall portion 150 may volatize at least a portion of the first aerosol-forming substrate. The second wall portion 152 may heat the second aerosol-forming substrate. The heating action of the second wall portion 152 may volatize at least a portion of the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0142] By providing an aerosol-generating device in which the first induction coil and the second induction coil can be operated independently of each other, tuning of the user experience may be enabled. By providing an aerosol-generating device in which the first induction coil and the second induction coil can be operated independently of each other, aerosol generation from the first aerosol-forming substrate may be independent from aerosol generation from the second aerosol-forming substrate. By providing an aerosol-generating device in which the first induction coil and the second induction coil can be operated independently of each other, a heating profile used to generate aerosol from the first aerosolforming substrate may be selected to be different to the heating profile used to generate aerosol from the second aerosol-forming substrate. When a user draws on mouthpiece 106, an airflow may enter intermediate section 104 via air inlet 158. At least a portion of the airflow flows into first cavity 150 via first airflow conduit 160. At least a portion of the airflow flows through at least a portion of the first aerosol-forming substrate, if the first aerosol-forming substrate is present in the first cavity 150. When the first aerosol-forming substrate is present in first cavity 150, first wall portion 140 may heat the first aerosol-forming substrate to volatize at least a portion of the first aerosol-forming substrate. At least a portion of the airflow flows from first cavity 150 into airflow channel 148 via first openings 144. At least a portion of the airflow flows from the first aerosol-forming substrate into airflow channel 148 via first openings 144, if the first aerosolforming substrate is present in first cavity 150. At least a portion of the airflow flows into the second cavity 152 via second airflow conduit 162. At least a portion of the airflow flows through at least a portion of the second aerosol-forming substrate, if the second aerosolforming substrate is present in second cavity 152. When the second aerosol-forming substrate is present in second cavity 152, second wall portion 142 may heat the second aerosol-forming substrate to volatize at least a portion of the second aerosol-forming substrate. At least a portion of the airflow flows from second cavity 152 into airflow channel 148 via second openings 146. At least a portion of the airflow flows into airflow channel 148 via third airflow conduit 164. At least a portion of the airflow flows from the second aerosolforming substrate into airflow channel 148 via second openings 146, if the second aerosolforming substrate is present in the second cavity 152.

[0143] The airflow may flow from intermediate section 104 to mouthpiece 106. At least a portion of the airflow flows from airflow channel 148 into chamber 124 of the mouthpiece 106 via the airflow channel opening. At least a portion of the airflow may flow from first cavity 150 directly into chamber 124 of the mouthpiece 106 via the first cavity opening. At least a portion of the airflow may flow from the second cavity 152 directly into chamber 124 of the mouthpiece 106 via the second cavity opening. The airflow through the first cavity 150, the second cavity 152 and the airflow channel 148 may mix in chamber 124. Aerosol may be delivered to the consumer via aerosol outflow channel 126.

[0144] Figs. 4 to 6 show the aerosol-generating device of the invention into which a first aerosol-forming article 170 comprising first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming article 172 comprising second aerosol-forming substrate are inserted. The first aerosol-generating article 170 is porous. The second aerosol-generating article 172 is porous. The remarks relating to Figs. 2 and 3 essentially also apply to Figs 4 to 6. In Fig. 4, the structural details of the main body are not shown. Figs. 4 to 6 illustrate the airflow through the device and the aerosol-forming substrates. Figs. 4 to 6 illustrate the selective operation of the first induction coil 154 and the second induction coil 156. Figs. 4 to 6 illustrate the selective volatization of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate. In Figs. 4 to 6, the arrows indicate the direction of the airflow through the device and substrates. In Figs. 4 to 6 air is drawn into air inlet 158. As described with regard to Fig. 3, portions of the airflow travel through the first airflow conduit 160 towards the first cavity 150, second airflow conduit 162 towards the second cavity 152 and third airflow conduit 164 towards the airflow channel 148.

[0145] In Fig. 4, first wall portion 140 and second wall portion 142 are in operation. Power is delivered to first induction coil 154 to heat first wall portion 140. First wall portion 40 heats the first aerosol-forming substrate to volatize at least a portion of the first aerosol-forming substrate. Power is delivered to second induction coil 156 to heat second wall portion 142. Second wall portion 142 heats the second aerosol-forming substrate to volatize at least a portion of the second aerosol-forming substrate. In the instance shown in Fig. 4, the first wall portion 140 and the second wall portion are both heated at the same time.

[0146] At least a portion of the volatized first aerosol-forming substrate flows through the first cavity directly into chamber 124 of mouthpiece 106 via the first cavity opening. At least a portion of the volatized first aerosol-forming substrate flows through first openings 144 into the airflow channel 148. The volatized first aerosol-forming substrate is mixed with the airflow through airflow channel 148. At least a portion of the volatized second aerosol-forming substrate flows through second cavity 152 directly into chamber 124 of mouthpiece 106 via the second cavity opening. At least a portion of the volatized second aerosol-forming substrate flows through second openings 146 into airflow channel 148. The volatized second aerosol-forming substrate is mixed with the airflow through airflow channel 148. The airflow through airflow channel 148 flows into chamber 124 of the mouthpiece 106 via the airflow channel opening. The airflow through first cavity 150 directly entering chamber 124, the airflow through second cavity 152 directly entering chamber 124, and the airflow through airflow channel 148 mix in chamber 124 of the mouthpiece 106. The mixture may cool to form an aerosol. The consumer inhales aerosol through aerosol outlet channel 126.

[0147] In Fig. 5, only the first wall portion 140 is in operation. Power is delivered to the first induction coil 154 to heat the first wall portion 140. The first wall portion 40 heats the first aerosol-forming substrate 170 to volatize at least a portion of the first aerosol-forming substrate. No power is delivered to the second induction coil 156.

[0148] At least a portion of the volatized first aerosol-forming substrate flows through the first cavity directly into chamber 124 of mouthpiece 106 via the first cavity opening. At least a portion of the volatized first aerosol-forming substrate flows through the first openings 144 into the airflow channel 148 as indicated by reference numeral 174. The volatized first aerosol-forming substrate mixes with the airflow through airflow channel 148 in airflow channel 148. The airflow through airflow channel 148 flows into chamber 124 via the airflow opening. The airflow through airflow channel 148 and the volatized first aerosol-forming substrate directly flowing into chamber 124 mix in chamber 124. The consumer inhales aerosol through aerosol outlet channel 126.

[0149] In Fig. 6, only the second wall portion 142 is in operation. Power is delivered to the second induction coil 156 to heat the second wall portion 142. The second wall portion 142 heats the second aerosol-forming substrate 172 to volatize at least a portion of the second aerosol-forming substrate. No power is delivered to the first induction coil 154.

[0150] At least a portion of the volatized second aerosol-forming substrate flows through second cavity 152 directly into the chamber 124 of the mouthpiece 106 via the second cavity opening. At least a portion of the volatized second aerosol-forming substrate flows through second openings 146 into airflow channel 148 as indicated by reference numeral 176. The volatized second aerosol-forming substrate mixes with the airflow through airflow channel 148 in airflow channel 148. The airflow through airflow channel 148 flows into chamber 124 via the airflow channel opening. The airflow through airflow channel 148 and the volatized second aerosol-forming substrate directly flowing into chamber 124 mix in chamber 124. The mixture may cool to form an aerosol. The consumer inhales aerosol through aerosol outlet channel 126.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An aerosol-generating device comprising a first cavity configured for receiving a first planar aerosol-forming substrate, a second cavity configured for receiving a second planar aerosol-forming substrate, an airflow channel, and an induction heating arrangement comprising a susceptor element, wherein the susceptor element is arranged between the first cavity and the second cavity, wherein the susceptor element is configured to at least partially define the airflow channel, wherein the susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel, and wherein the susceptor element is configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel, wherein the first cavity is planar, and wherein the second cavity is planar.

2. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the susceptor element is configured for directing fluid flow from the first cavity to the airflow channel and wherein the susceptor element is configured for directing fluid flow from the second cavity to the airflow channel.

3. The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first cavity comprises a first cavity opening configured for inserting the first aerosol-forming substrate and wherein the second cavity comprises a second cavity opening configured for inserting the second aerosol-forming substrate.

4. The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the susceptor element comprises a wall, wherein the wall of the susceptor element comprises at least a first wall portion and a second wall portion and wherein the wall is configured to define the airflow channel.

5. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 4, wherein the first wall portion comprises one or more openings configured for fluidly connecting the first cavity with the airflow channel and wherein the second wall portion comprises one or more openings configured for fluidly connecting the second cavity with the airflow channel.

6. The aerosol-generating device according to any of claims 4 and 5, wherein the first wall portion is arranged abutting the first cavity and wherein the second wall portion is arranged abutting the second cavity.

7. The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the induction heating arrangement comprises a first induction coil, preferably a first planar induction coil, and wherein the induction heating arrangement comprises a second induction coil, preferably a second planar induction coil.

8. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 7, wherein the device is configured such that the first induction coil and the second induction coil are independently controllable.

9. The aerosol-generating device according to any of claims 7 to 8 and according to claim 4, wherein the first induction coil is configured for heating the first wall portion, and wherein the second induction coil is configured for heating the second wall portion.

10. The aerosol-generating device according to any of claims 7 to 9, wherein the susceptor element is centrally arranged, wherein the first cavity is arranged radially outward of the susceptor element, wherein the first induction coil is arranged radially outward of the first cavity, wherein the second cavity is arranged radially outward of the susceptor element, wherein the second cavity is arranged opposite to the first cavity, and wherein the second induction coil is arranged radially outward of the second cavity.

11. The aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises an air inlet, wherein the device comprises a first airflow conduit, a second airflow conduit, and a third airflow conduit, wherein the first airflow conduit is configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the first cavity, wherein the second airflow conduit is configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the second cavity, and wherein the third airflow conduit is configured for fluidly connecting the air inlet with the airflow channel.

12. An aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating device according to any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the system comprises a first aerosol-forming substrate, preferably a first planar aerosol-forming substrate.

13. The aerosol-generating system of claim 12, wherein the system comprises a second aerosol-forming substrate, preferably a second planar aerosol-forming substrate.

14. The aerosol-generating system according to claim 13, wherein the first aerosol-forming substrate is configured to be different from the second aerosol-forming substrate.

15. The aerosol-generating system according to any of claims 13 to 14, wherein the first aerosol-forming substrate forms part of a first aerosol-generating article, preferably a first planar aerosol-generating article and wherein the second aerosol-forming substrate forms part of a second aerosol-generating article, preferably a second planar aerosolgenerating article, preferably wherein the first aerosol-generating article is shaped to closely conform to the shape of the first cavity and wherein the second aerosol-generating article is shaped to closely conform to the shape of the second cavity.

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