Consumable with divided reservoir for liquid aerosol-forming substrate

Abstract

To provide a consumable with a divided reservoir for a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.SOLUTION: A consumable for use in an electrically heated aerosol-generating device comprises: an aerosol outlet path; a reservoir comprising a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; and a heating element. The reservoir has an upper domain and a lower domain that are in fluid connection with each other. The upper domain is divided into a first part and a second part, which are arranged on two opposing sides of the aerosol outlet path such that the two parts are not in direct fluid connection within the upper domain. The aerosol-forming substrate included by the lower domain is in fluid connection with the heating element.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a consumable for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device. In particular, the present invention relates to a consumable comprising a reservoir having a liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is electrically heated to generate an aerosol that is inhaled by a user. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate is electrically heated by a heating element made of an electrically conductive material contained in the consumable. The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system including such a consumable and an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol generating devices, such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional combustible tobacco products, such as roll-your-own cigarettes and pre-made cigarettes. Currently, there are various types of aerosol generating devices on the market that vaporize or vaporize a liquid (known as e-liquid) contained in a reservoir, which may or may not contain nicotine, to generate an aerosol that is inhaled by the user. These liquid-based aerosol generating devices are convenient for users who want instant generation of an inhalable aerosol.

[0003] Some liquid-based aerosol generating devices work with a consumable article, cartridge, or capsule received within the device. The consumable article is typically equipped with a reservoir for the liquid and a heating element. In use, for example, when a user inhales on the mouthpiece of the device, the liquid is guided from the reservoir towards the heating element to generate an inhalable aerosol. The heating element may be heated, for example, using a coil. Typically, a wick is applied to transport the liquid from the reservoir to the heating element.

[0004] The liquid contained in the consumable article is often made from a mixture of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings and / or nicotine.

[0005] Alternatively, the vaporizable nicotine-containing liquid may be derived directly from tobacco material and is known as tobacco liquid or T-liquid. Such T-liquid may still contain PG and VG as well as tobacco material or particles in liquid solution. Thus, the nicotine present in the liquid is essentially derived from natural tobacco material.

[0006] T-liquids present several challenges compared to e-liquids. In particular, tobacco particles contained within the liquid adversely affect conventional wicking of the liquid towards the heating element to generate an aerosol to be inhaled. In particular, the wick can quickly become clogged with tobacco. Similarly, upon vaporization of T-liquids, the solid tobacco material content of T-liquids causes a buildup of solid material on the surface of the heater element, which over time significantly affects the heating efficiency of the heating element, often necessitating its periodic cleaning or replacement. Thus, conventional e-liquid flow management and vaporization methods are ineffective for generating aerosol from T-liquids.

[0007] A further challenge associated with vaporizing T-liquid is the increased or high viscosity of the liquid due to the solid tobacco content, which can lead to clogging of the liquid and negatively impact the use of the consumable. As such, there is a need for improved fluid flow or management of the liquid within consumable articles that contain T-liquid.

[0008] There is therefore a need for improved structures of tobacco liquid containing consumable articles to address the challenges posed, in particular improved liquid flow could further improve the use of liquid in consumable articles by reducing the amount of liquid remaining unused.

[0009] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to address one or more or all of the above-mentioned problems. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved tobacco liquid-containing consumable for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device. For example, the object is to provide a consumable that allows for improved fluid flow or fluid management of the tobacco liquid aerosol generating substrate within the aerosol generating consumable. Heating of such tobacco liquid should be improved to provide an aerosol. Furthermore, clogging of the consumable should be reduced. The distance traveled by the liquid aerosol generating substrate should be reduced to further reduce clogging. Furthermore, vaporization should be promoted. In general, the object is to provide a consumable that includes a reservoir having a structure such that the use of the liquid aerosol generating substrate is increased.

[0010] These objects, as well as others that will become apparent from the following description, are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims, and the skilled person will find clues to other suitable embodiments of the invention throughout the disclosure of this application. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] General aspects of consumables A first embodiment of the present invention relates to a consumable for use in an electrically heated aerosol generation device, comprising an aerosol outlet pathway, a reservoir containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and a heating element, the reservoir having an upper region and a lower region, the upper region and the lower region being fluidly connected to each other, the upper region being divided into a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion being positioned on two opposite sides of the aerosol outlet pathway such that the two portions are not in direct fluid connection within the upper region, and the aerosol-forming substrate contained by the lower region is in fluid connection with the heating element.

[0012] Consumables can be understood as articles or cartridges and can be assemblable components used in electrically heated aerosol generating devices. Such aerosol generating devices can generate aerosols by electrically heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. As an example, the aerosol generating device can be heated by inductive (inductive) heating or resistive (resistive) heating. Consumables can also be disposable. In this case, consumables can generally be produced in larger numbers than the aerosol generating devices that accept them. Reducing the cost of consumables can therefore result in significant savings for manufacturers and consumers.

[0013] The consumable includes an aerosol exit path, which may be understood as a path for guiding the aerosol from an internal portion to an external portion of the consumable. For example, the aerosol may be guided to a mouth end of the consumable so that a user can conveniently inhale the aerosol. As an example, the exit path may have a cylindrical shape to improve the surface-to-volume ratio so that the generated aerosol cannot condense on the walls of the aerosol exit path. The aerosol exit path may also be understood as a chimney.

[0014] The consumable also includes a reservoir containing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The reservoir can be understood as a cavity, a storage chamber, or an enclosed space that can serve to hold the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The reservoir must have a means, such as an opening, that allows the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be released from the reservoir. Before the consumable is used by a user, the reservoir is filled with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. During normal use, after the aerosol is generated, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is guided through the aerosol outlet path. Gradually, the amount of liquid aerosol-forming substrate filled in the reservoir decreases.

[0015] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG) and / or tobacco. The tobacco may be provided in particulate form, such as by using grinding, mixing, or other processing techniques to provide small dispersible particles. The tobacco may be suspended in a solution with the PG and VG. The tobacco contains nicotine. The nicotine contained in the tobacco may dissolve in the solution, thereby forming a tobacco liquid (T-liquid). In practice, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a T-liquid.

[0016] The consumable further comprises a heating element. The heating element may be heated. For example, the heating element may be heated by resistive or inductive heating. Inductive heating offers the advantage that no wires are required to contact the heating element. Thus, the consumable can be easily received in the aerosol generating device without the need for bulky electrical connections. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be guided from the reservoir to the vicinity of the heating element. Preferably, most of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is already vaporized at this point due to the heat transferred from the heating element to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. This reduces clogging of the path of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the aerosol exit path compared to when most of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is still in a liquid fluid state when it contacts the heating element. The heating element may have holes so that the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and / or the generated aerosol can easily pass through the holes and enter the aerosol exit path.

[0017] Vaporizing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be understood as generating an aerosol from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol may be inhaled by a user. When generating an aerosol from a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the liquid fluid changes its physical state to a gaseous fluid state.

[0018] The reservoir has an upper region and a lower region, which are fluidly connected to each other. The regions can be understood as individual spaces or spaces that can be recognized as different from another space, e.g., another region. The upper region and the lower region can be fluidly connected, allowing for the exchange of fluids. For example, the region can have an opening in the form of an annular ring through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can pass. The presence of the upper and lower regions can have the advantage that both regions can be given a specific geometric shape that meets and improves the needs of fluid management, i.e., guiding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the lower region can be shaped to contact the heating element over a large area, so as to facilitate and / or improve the heating of the liquid aerosol-generating substrate. The upper region does not necessarily have to be in close proximity to the heating element, but can be shaped to improve and / or increase the storage capacity of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0019] The term "upper" may be understood such that the upper region of the reservoir is closer to the mouth end of the consumable. The term "lower" may be understood such that the lower region of the reservoir may be located further from the mouth end than the upper region. The upper and lower regions may be adjacent to each other. With respect to the longitudinal direction of the consumable, the upper region may be contiguous to the mouth end of the consumable and the lower region may be contiguous to the upper region. When the consumable is received in the aerosol generating device and the device is standing on the ground, the longitudinal direction of the consumable may be parallel to an axis perpendicular to the ground, e.g., the direction of gravity. Thus, it can be said that the upper region is vertically arranged above the lower region.

[0020] Preferably, there is no sealing between the upper and lower regions of the reservoir, even before the consumable is used for the first time. Such sealing may not be necessary, since a fluid connection should be provided. The absence of a sealing may have the advantage that fewer structural parts are required.

[0021] The upper region is divided into a first part and a second part, the first part and the second part being arranged on two opposite sides of the aerosol outlet path such that the two parts are not in direct fluid connection within the upper region. However, it may be possible to provide an indirect fluid connection in which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is guided from the first part of the upper region to the lower region and then to the second part of the upper region. The upper region may also be divided into more than a first and a second part.

[0022] The division into a first and a second portion provides the advantage that the flow of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be improved, for example it may cause less friction against the inner wall of the upper region of the reservoir.

[0023] As an example, the aerosol exit path may be surrounded by an upper region of the reservoir, with a wall formed between the aerosol exit path and the reservoir. For example, if the width of the device is not much larger than the diameter of the aerosol exit path, the extension of the exit path may cause this wall of the upper region of the reservoir to approach the inner surface of the opposite side of the upper region of the reservoir. This may lead to a portion of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate getting stuck between the walls. As an example, friction may increase. For example, a boundary layer may develop on the inner surface of the upper region of the reservoir. The boundary layer may adversely affect the flow of fluid from the upper region to the lower region. This is especially true when the liquid aerosol-forming substrate has a high viscosity, for example, when the liquid aerosol-forming substrate has a higher viscosity than water. For example, the viscosity of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be comprised between 0.05 N·s / m2 (Newton seconds per square meter) and 10 N·s / m2. The inventors have found that by separating the upper region into a first portion and a second portion, the occurrence of a boundary layer is reduced by removing the portion of the upper region of the reservoir where the inner surfaces are close to each other, thereby allowing most of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be consumed and less liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be wasted, and less liquid aerosol-forming substrate to remain unused and / or clogged on the inner surface of the upper region of the reservoir.

[0024] By separating the upper region of the reservoir into a first portion and a second portion of the upper region of the reservoir, a cross-section of the upper region has a non-annular shape, hi one example, the upper region is divided into the first portion and the second portion by one or more walls.

[0025] The aerosol-forming substrate contained by the lower region is in fluid communication with the heating element, which can improve heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the heating element has a large surface area, which can further improve heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. As an example, the heating element can have a cylindrical shape.

[0026] Consumable shape, reservoir shape, and outlet path shape According to a second embodiment, in the preceding embodiment, the aerosol exit path extends from a location within the housing of the consumable, preferably near the heating element, to the mouth end of the consumable, preferably positioned along the longitudinal axis of the consumable.

[0027] The aerosol exit pathway provides a fluid connection from the interior of the housing of the consumable to the environment. The aerosol exit pathway may extend from the heating element to the exterior of the consumable. Illustratively, the exit pathway defines an oral end at the end that communicates with the environment, which is received by a user. This oral end may also be referred to as the oral end of the consumable. Providing such an aerosol exit pathway facilitates inhalation of the generated aerosol.

[0028] According to a third embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the upper region of the reservoir radially surrounds the aerosol exit path.

[0029] By radially surrounding the aerosol exit path, it should be understood that the upper region substantially covers or is arranged around the generally circular periphery of the aerosol exit path. This can save space, resulting in a compact configuration of the consumable. The heated aerosol passing through the aerosol exit path can also advantageously heat the liquid aerosol-forming substrate located in the upper region of the reservoir. This can improve the flow of the fluid, since the increased temperature of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can reduce its viscosity, thereby reducing its friction. Furthermore, the occurrence of boundary layers can be reduced. It may also be possible for the inner surface of the upper region of the reservoir to be radially adjacent to a substantially cylindrical surface forming the outer surface of the aerosol exit path of the consumable.

[0030] According to a fourth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the upper region extends over at least 10%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 50% and most preferably at least 60% of the length of the reservoir, and / or the upper region extends over at most 80%, preferably at most 70%, more preferably at most 60% of the length of the reservoir, the length of the reservoir being measured substantially parallel to the aerosol exit path.

[0031] According to a fifth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, a cross-section of the consumable, near the mouth end of the consumable and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol exit path, has an elongated shape, such as an oval or a rectangle.

[0032] An elongated shape should be understood as a shape that has two mutually perpendicular dimensions, one dimension being larger than the other. An elongated shape typically has one elongated axis, with the larger of the two dimensions being aligned with this elongated axis. Such a shape offers the advantage that even if the upper region of the reservoir radially surrounds the aerosol exit path, the width of the device does not have to be much larger than the diameter of the exit path. This is because the upper region still provides sufficient storage space on the left and right sides of the exit path in this case. The left and right sides of the exit path can be the first and second parts into which the upper region is divided.

[0033] According to the sixth embodiment, in the preceding embodiments, the elongated shape has a maximum dimension and a minimum dimension, and the maximum dimension is at least 1.0 times, preferably at least 1.4 times, more preferably at least 1.6 times, even more preferably at least 2.0 times, and most preferably at least 2.4 times greater than the minimum dimension.

[0034] As an example, 1.4 times should be understood as the larger dimension being 1.4 times the smallest dimension. An optimal balance should be struck between providing sufficient storage capacity in the upper region and reducing the length of the device to a size acceptable to the user.

[0035] According to a seventh embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the smallest dimension of the cross-section of the consumable perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol exit path near the mouth end of the consumable is at least 1.0 times, preferably at least 1.1 times, more preferably at least 1.2 times, even more preferably at least 1.3 times, even more preferably at least 1.4 times, most preferably at least 1.5 times, and / or at most 2.0 times, preferably at most 1.9 times, more preferably at most 1.8 times, even more preferably at most 1.7 times, even more preferably at most 1.6 times, and most preferably at most 1.5 times, greater than the inner or outer diameter of the aerosol exit path in the same plane as the cross-section of the consumable near the mouth end.

[0036] Near the oral end should be understood as a cross section closer to the oral end than the opposite end, or a cross section substantially at the oral end within about 1% to 10% of the total length of the consumable. The stated minimum dimension should be larger than the inner or outer diameter of the aerosol exit path. The inner diameter of the aerosol exit path represents the diameter of the inner surface of the wall. The outer diameter corresponds to the inner diameter and twice the thickness of the wall of the aerosol exit path. The minimum dimension should be larger than the inner or outer diameter of the aerosol exit path up to a certain multiple. This multiple should not be too large. Otherwise the device will not be flat enough to be acceptable to the user.

[0037] According to an eighth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the lower region is divided into a first lower region portion and a second lower region portion.

[0038] In this embodiment, the lower region may be divided similarly to the upper region. This may be advantageous to further improve fluid flow management. Furthermore, for example, it may be particularly advantageous if the upper and lower regions have similar or substantially the same cross-sections. For example, the upper and lower regions may have annular cross-sections.

[0039] Air chamber According to a ninth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the consumable includes one or more air chambers, preferably two air chambers, located between the first and second portions of the upper region.

[0040] An air chamber may be understood as a substantially closed space in which air can be contained or placed. An air chamber may also be referred to as an air pocket. The air may advantageously improve the thermal insulation of the heated component relative to the housing of the consumable. The air chamber is located between the first and second parts of the upper region. The parts between the first and second parts of the upper region may be characterized by a small distance between the heated aerosol and the outside of the consumable. It is therefore beneficial to apply an air chamber in these parts, which improves and increases the thermal insulation.

[0041] According to a tenth embodiment, in the preceding embodiments, the one or more air chambers have one or more upper openings at an upper end of the upper region configured to allow air to enter the first and / or second portions of the upper region of the reservoir, and the upper end of the upper region is located toward the mouth end of the consumable.

[0042] The one or more upper openings are understood as holes or protrusions that establish a fluid connection between the first part of the upper region and the one or more air chambers and / or between the second part of the upper region and the one or more air chambers. Preferably, there are two air chambers, and each air chamber may have two upper openings, one upper opening providing a fluid connection with the first part of the upper region and the other upper opening providing a fluid connection with the second part of the upper region. The one or more upper openings may allow a fluid, such as air, to enter the first part and / or the second part. The air entering the first part and / or the second part may advantageously enter the first part and / or the second part at the top within the first / second part. The air entering the first part and / or the second part advantageously ensures pressure equilibrium. During normal use, air may enter from the top side of the upper region, thereby facilitating fluid movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the pressure in the upper region may decrease while the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is being consumed in the upper region, preventing fluid movement to the lower region. One or more top openings improve flow through the consumable by compensating for pressure losses.

[0043] According to an eleventh embodiment, in any one of the ninth or tenth embodiments, the one or more air chambers have one or more lower openings configured to allow ambient air to enter the one or more air chambers, the one or more lower openings preferably being located at a lower end of the one or more air chambers, the lower end of the one or more air chambers being located away from the mouth end of the consumable.

[0044] This embodiment allows for pressure balancing during normal use. For example, ambient or external air may be directed into one or more air chambers and then into the first and / or second portion of the upper region. The lower opening may be located at a lower end of one or more air chambers. This may improve air flow through the longitudinal extension of one or more air chambers. This may improve cooling of the consumable housing.

[0045] According to a twelfth embodiment, in any one of the ninth to eleventh embodiments, one or more air chambers extend parallel to the aerosol exit path, along the length of the upper region of the reservoir, or along the lengths of the upper and lower regions of the reservoir, so as to thermally insulate the outer housing of the consumable from the aerosol exit path.

[0046] The extension of the one or more air chambers along the length of the upper region may be understood as one or more air chambers having substantially the same length as the upper region. This extension is in a direction parallel to the aerosol exit path, which may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the consumable. This improves the cooling of the housing of the consumable. It may also be possible for the one or more air chambers to extend along the length of the upper and lower regions. This may allow external air to be guided in the vicinity of the heating element and outside of the heating element. This may further improve the cooling and reduce the temperature of the housing of the consumable. This may also increase energy efficiency.

[0047] According to a thirteenth embodiment, in any one of the ninth to twelfth embodiments, the one or more air chambers include one or more fins occupying at least 20%, preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 60%, and most preferably at least 70% of the cross section of the one or more air chambers, and / or occupying at most 98%, preferably at most 90%, more preferably at most 85%, and most preferably at most 80% of the cross section of the one or more air chambers.

[0048] The fins may also be understood as ribs. The fins may be considered as structural parts that occupy the space of one or more air chambers that should be filled with air. The one or more fins occupy the cross section to a certain extent. The cross section may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol exit path. The one or more fins should not occupy the cross section completely. The one or more fins should occupy an optimal amount of the cross section of the one or more air chambers to improve clogging of liquid aerosol-forming substrates that may unnecessarily enter one or more air chambers through one or more upper openings. The one or more fins prevent such liquid aerosol-forming substrates from accidentally entering one or more air chambers and proceeding further in one or more air chambers.

[0049] According to a fourteenth embodiment, in the preceding embodiments, the one or more fins are circumferentially and alternately arranged on two opposite sides of the one or more air chambers.

[0050] The circumferential arrangement of the fins prevents the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, which has undesirably entered one or more of the air chambers, from proceeding further in the one or more of the air chambers. The one or more fins are arranged in an alternating manner. This may be understood as a labyrinth seal. In this way, sealing can be established in a cost-effective manner.

[0051] General size / flow direction According to a 15th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the upper region of the reservoir comprises at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 85% of the total volume of the reservoir, and / or the upper region of the reservoir comprises at most 95%, preferably at most 90%, more preferably at most 85% of the total volume of the reservoir.

[0052] The volume of the upper region of the reservoir should be larger than that of the lower region to increase the volume to surface ratio and further promote fluid flow. However, the relative volume of the upper region of the reservoir should not be increased too much, because otherwise the volume of the lower region may become too small. This may have a negative effect on the heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Furthermore, to promote the heating and / or generation of the aerosol, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained by the lower region should be in fluid communication with the heating element over a large area.

[0053] According to a sixteenth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the consumable is configured such that during normal use, the aerosol-forming substrate is guided from the first and / or second portion of the upper region of the reservoir to the lower region of the reservoir, through the heating element, thereby generating an aerosol that is inhaled by the user through the aerosol outlet path.

[0054] During normal use, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is guided or drawn from the first and / or second parts of the upper region to the lower region as long as the liquid aerosol-forming substrate remains in the upper region. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate is then guided through the heating element. For example, holes may be present in the heating element to facilitate guidance through the heating element. In the lower region, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may already be aerosolized by the heat emitted by the heating element. This may be facilitated by increasing the surface area of ​​the heating element, which facilitates heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and / or the aerosol. As a result, clogging of the flow path may be reduced. For example, the holes in the heating element may be less prone to clogging. The inner walls of the lower region may be closer to each other than the walls of the upper region. Nevertheless, if the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is already heated in the lower region, the flow of the fluid may be maintained. Thereby, its viscosity may be reduced, preventing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from clogging on the inner walls.

[0055] According to the seventeenth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco.

[0056] Nicotine is naturally present in tobacco, such as tobacco leaves. Nicotine can be evaporated from tobacco, for example, at temperatures below 300°C. The tobacco can be of plant origin. The aerosol-forming substrate can also include a tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco flavor compounds. These compounds can be released from the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is heated. The aerosol-forming substrate can include a homogenized tobacco material.

[0057] The aerosol-forming substrate may also include one or more additional aerosol-forming agents. An aerosol-forming agent in this sense is any suitable compound or mixture of compounds that can promote the generation or formation of a dense and stable aerosol and can be resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating device. Suitable such aerosol-forming agents include glycerin and propylene glycol. Further examples are polyhydric alcohols, esters of polyhydric alcohols, and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids. Preferably, in addition to tobacco, propylene glycol (PG) and / or vegetable glycerin (VG) are applied.

[0058] heating element According to an 18th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element has two portions on two opposing sides corresponding to the two opposing sides of the first and second portions of the upper region within a range along the aerosol exit path, and the two portions are separated by two sides substantially perpendicular to the two opposing sides.

[0059] The two parts of the heating element may be easily heated. For example, the two parts may provide eddy currents when located in a fluctuating electromagnetic field. The eddy currents may cause the heating element to heat up. Preferably, the parts are separated into two sides. Preferably, the two sides are not easily heated. This may be beneficial when no heat is required on the two sides of the heating element. The two parts are located on two opposite sides corresponding to the two opposite sides of the first and second parts of the upper region. Thereby, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be advantageously heated in the part where heating is required.

[0060] The beneficial effect of heating can be even more pronounced if the lower region is also separated on the side corresponding to the separation or division of the upper region, thereby ensuring heating on the side facing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. This improves heating and reduces unnecessary heating of the remaining areas. It also avoids unnecessary heating of the housing, which can occur when the side of the heating element that is exposed or facing an area where the liquid aerosol-forming substrate should not be located is heated.

[0061] Even though the heating element is separated into two sides, the heating element can still be considered as an integral heating element. However, the two parts of the heating element are susceptible to heating. The remaining side may be less susceptible to heating. For example, the remaining side of the heating element may include a material that is unable to convert electromagnetic energy into heat when located within a fluctuating electromagnetic field. However, it is also possible to provide the heating element as two separate elements, i.e., not as an integral heating element. For example, the remaining side of the heating element may remain empty.

[0062] According to a nineteenth embodiment, in the preceding embodiments, the two parts of the heating element each extend over an angular range of at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 60°, most preferably at least 90° and / or over an angular range of at most 120°, preferably at most 110°, more preferably at most 100°, most preferably at most 90°, and the two parts are optionally separated by an angular range of at least 10°, preferably at least 30°, more preferably at least 60°, most preferably at least 90° and / or by an angular range of at most 120°, preferably at most 110°, more preferably at most 100°, most preferably at most 90°.

[0063] In this embodiment, the two parts extend over a certain angle range that improves the heating of the target area where the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is located. Most preferably, each of the two parts extends over an angle range of substantially 90°. The two parts are opposite each other. As an example, the heating element may have an annular cross section, for example, the heating element may form a hollow cylinder with a thin wall thickness. In such an example, a substantially 90° angle range is covered by one part, which is followed in the circumferential direction by a substantially 90° angle range that does not have a material that can generate heat when placed in an electromagnetic field. Then, another part of the heating element with a substantially 90° angle range may be followed in the circumferential direction by a substantially 90° angle range of a material that cannot generate heat again. All angles should add up to 360°.

[0064] According to a twentieth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element comprises one or more holes through which the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate is guided during normal use.

[0065] The holes can be openings that allow a fluid to pass through, or to be guided, or to be drawn in. The one or more holes are such that the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and / or the generated aerosol can easily pass through the one or more holes and into the aerosol exit path. The holes also reduce clogging of the flow path.

[0066] According to a twenty-first embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element has a substantially hollow shape.

[0067] The hollow shape of the heating element allows for fluid to be guided through the heating element, for example through the open space surrounded by the heating element. The generated aerosol can pass through the heating element from the outside through the holes and then through the open space inside the heating element and through the aerosol exit path to the mouth end of the consumable.

[0068] According to a twenty-second embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element has a substantially cylindrical shape or at least a cylindrical shape in the cross-sectional direction.

[0069] The cylindrical shape is beneficial for uniform heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in a circumferential perspective. The cylindrical shape may also be easier to manufacture and easier to assemble with the rest of the consumable. Cylindrical, at least in the cross-sectional direction, should be understood to mean that there is at least one angular range of a circle. For example, the heating element may be rectangular in shape with rounded corners. If the heating element includes two parts, both parts may extend over a certain angular range.

[0070] General Features / Materials According to a twenty-third embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate has a viscosity, when measured at a temperature of 20° C., that is at least 1.2 times, preferably at least 1.4 times, more preferably at least 1.6 times, and most preferably at least 2.0 times higher than the viscosity of water.

[0071] Viscosity quantifies the internal friction between adjacent fluid layers that can move relative to each other. The viscosity of a fluid is a measure of its resistance to deformation at a given speed. As an example, when a viscous fluid is forced to move, flow, or pass between two opposing walls, the fluid flows faster near the center of the two opposing walls than near the walls. Viscosity depends on the temperature of the fluid, e.g., liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The viscosity of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate used according to the present invention is usually higher than that of water. This may be due to the tobacco particles being suspended in the solution.

[0072] According to a twenty-fourth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element comprises an electrically conductive material, and the heating element is preferably a susceptor.

[0073] The conductive material can convert electromagnetic energy into heat. The heating element is preferably a susceptor, which refers to a material that includes a conductive material and can convert electromagnetic energy into heat. Potential materials for the heating element can include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, and any other conductive elements. Preferably, stainless steel can be applied as the material for the heating element, along with aluminum and mild steel. Advantageously, the heating element is a ferromagnetic element. When located in a fluctuating electromagnetic field, eddy currents induced in the heating element cause the heating element to heat. When the heating element is placed in close proximity to or in thermal contact with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is advantageously heated by the heating element.

[0074] The consumable may be designed to engage with an electrically actuated aerosol generation device that includes a heating means, such as a coil or an induction coil. The heating means generates a varying electromagnetic field to heat a heating element. The heating element may be located within the varying electromagnetic field. During normal use, the consumable engages with the aerosol generation device such that the heating element is located within the varying electromagnetic field generated by the heating means.

[0075] According to a twenty-fifth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the consumable includes a wick element that substantially surrounds the heating element.

[0076] A wick element may be understood as an element that includes a capillary material, which is a material that is capable of transporting a liquid aerosol-forming substance from one side of the material to the other side by capillary action.

[0077] The wick element may be in fluid communication with the heating element. The wick element may also be in fluid connection with the lower region of the reservoir. The wick element may be arranged to guide or transport the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the lower region of the reservoir to the heating element. In particular, the wick element may be arranged to guide the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the lower region of the reservoir across a broad surface of the heating element. The wick element may be attached to the heating element. The wick element may also be integrally formed with the heating element.

[0078] According to a twenty-sixth embodiment, in the preceding embodiments, the wick element includes at least one material from the list including: ceramic material and cotton material.

[0079] Suitable further materials may include rayon. The wick element may include a porous ceramic material that can enhance heating. The wick element preferably includes a capillary material having a fibrous or sponge-like structure. The structure of the capillary material may have one or more holes, bores, or tubes through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be guided by capillary action. If the heating element includes one or more holes, the capillary material may protrude into one or more holes of the heating element. This can enhance heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The heating element can draw the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the holes of the heating element by capillary movement of the fluid.

[0080] According to a 27th embodiment, in any one of the 25th or 26th embodiments, the consumable is configured such that during normal use, the aerosol-forming substrate is guided from the lower region, through the wick element and through the heating element.

[0081] This enhances heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and generation of an aerosol that is inhaled by the user, and also prevents the aerosol-forming substrate in its liquid state from escaping through the aerosol exit path.

[0082] According to a twenty-eighth embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate is electrically heated by induction heating or resistive heating.

[0083] Induction heating has the advantage that it is not necessary to provide direct electrical contact between the heating element and the inductor. Resistance heating can also be called Joule heating, resistive heating, or ohmic heating. When a current is passed through a conductor, heat is generated with a power equal to the product of the resistance and the square of the current. Electrodes are required to provide electrical contact to the heating element. The electrodes ensure that a voltage difference is applied to the heating element, inducing a current.

[0084] Aerosol generating devices and systems A 29th embodiment of the present invention relates to an aerosol generation system comprising a consumable according to any one of the first to twenty-eighth embodiments and an aerosol generation device including a power source and configured to supply energy to a heating element of the consumable.

[0085] The power source may be any suitable power source, such as a direct current voltage source, such as a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. The power source may be located within the body of the aerosol generating device, or may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may be rechargeable and may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy for one or more normal use cycles. A use cycle may be understood as consuming substantially all of the liquid aerosol-generating substrate contained in the reservoir during normal use.

[0086] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is a portable or handheld aerosol generating device that is comfortable for a user to hold between the fingers of one hand. The aerosol generating device may have a substantially cylindrical shape or an organic shape that follows or resembles a natural shape that is easy and comfortable to hold in the hand. The consumable may also be a handheld consumable.

[0087] According to a 30th embodiment, in the previous embodiments, the aerosol generating device includes a heating means, such as a coil or induction coil, configured to inductively heat a consumable heating element when a power source is connected to the heating means.

[0088] The heating means may provide an alternating or fluctuating electromagnetic field. For example, when a power supply is activated, a high frequency alternating current flows through a coil of wire that may be part of the heating means. The electromagnetic field generated by the heating means may induce a current in the heating element, causing heating of the heating element. The heating element may be a susceptor.

[0089] The heating element may be disposed on a wall of the housing of the consumable that forms the transition to the aerosol exit path. The heating element is configured to be located adjacent, preferably radially adjacent, the heating means, such as an inductor coil, when the consumable is received in and / or engaged with the aerosol generation device. During normal use, it is advantageous to have the heating element close to the heating means to enhance heating of the heating element by increasing the voltage induced in the heating element.

[0090] According to a thirty-first embodiment, in the preceding embodiments, the heating means of the aerosol generation device substantially surrounds the outside of the consumable when the consumable is received within the aerosol generation device.

[0091] According to the thirty-second embodiment, in any one of the thirty or thirty-first embodiments, the heating means of the aerosol generation device is substantially radially adjacent to the heating element when the consumable is received in the aerosol generation device.

[0092] Preferred embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0093] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a general embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device and a heating means of the aerosol generating device according to a typical embodiment. [Diagram 3] A side cross-sectional view of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a first exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4] A top cross-sectional view of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a first exemplary embodiment. [Diagram 5] 1 shows a top cross-sectional view of a consumable for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device having different heating elements according to a first exemplary embodiment. [Figure 6] A top cross-sectional view of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a second exemplary embodiment is shown. [Figure 7] A top cross-sectional view of a consumable for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device having different heating elements according to a second exemplary embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 shows two cross-sectional side views of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a third exemplary embodiment. [Figure 9] A top cross-sectional view of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a third exemplary embodiment is shown. [Figure 10]1 illustrates an aerosol generation system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0094] In the following the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the attached figures, however the invention can also be used in any other embodiment not explicitly disclosed below.

[0095] 1 shows in perspective view a consumable 1 for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a general embodiment of the present invention, within which subsequent embodiments may be used. The consumable 1 includes an outer housing 2 and an oral end 3 for receipt by a user's mouth.

[0096] Figure 2 shows a general embodiment of the consumable 1 in a side cross-sectional view. The consumable comprises an aerosol exit path 10 and a reservoir 15 containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The consumable also comprises a heating element 50. The flow paths of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and / or the aerosol are shown. The aerosol exits the aerosol exit path 10 near or at the mouth end 3. Also shown is a heating means 102, which may be an inductor such as an inductor coil. The heating means 102 is part of the aerosol generation device 100 (not shown completely in the figure).

[0097] FIG. 3 shows a consumable 1 used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device in a side cross-sectional view according to a first exemplary embodiment. This first exemplary embodiment may be a specific embodiment of the consumable of the general embodiment and also includes a housing as shown in the general embodiment. The consumable 1 includes an aerosol outlet path 10, a reservoir 15 containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and a heating element 50. The reservoir 15 has an upper region 20 and a lower region 30. The upper region 20 and the lower region 30 are fluidly connected to each other. Thus, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can flow from the upper region 20 to the lower region 30. The upper region 20 is divided into a first portion 21 and a second portion 22 arranged on two opposite sides of the aerosol outlet path 10. Thus, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 are not directly fluidly connected in the upper region 20. The aerosol-forming substrate contained by the lower region 30 is fluidly connected to the heating element 50. The consumable 1 further comprises a wick element 60. The heating element 50 further comprises one or more holes 51. In this manner, the aerosol-forming substrate and / or aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate may be guided through the heating element during normal use.

[0098] FIG. 4 shows a consumable 1 used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device in a top cross-sectional view according to a first exemplary embodiment. The consumable 1 shows a heating element 50, an aerosol exit path 10, a first portion 21 of the upper region 20, and a second portion 22 of the upper region 20. The consumable 1 is shown in a cross section 5, for example a cross section 5 of the consumable 1 in the vicinity of the mouth end of the consumable 1. The cross section 5 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol exit path 10. As can be seen, the cross section 5 has an elongated shape. In this example, the cross section 5 has a substantially rectangular shape, i.e. a rectangular shape with rounded corners. The periphery of the cross section of the upper region 20 has an elliptical shape. The aerosol exit path is located in the center of the reservoir and thereby also in the center of the upper region of the reservoir. The first portion 21 and the second portion 22 of the upper region 20 are on two opposite sides of the aerosol exit path 10. As can be seen, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 are separated by two walls, which may be said to be formed by the outer wall of the aerosol exit pathway 10 which coincides with the wall of the consumable 1.

[0099] It can be seen that the smallest dimension of the cross section 5 of the consumable 1 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol exit pathway 10 near the mouth end of the consumable 1 is approximately the same size as the outer diameter of the aerosol exit pathway 10 in the same plane as the cross section 5 of the consumable near the mouth end. This is because the walls are congruent. The inner diameter of the aerosol exit pathway 10 is smaller due to the thickness of the aerosol exit pathway wall. Thus, the smallest dimension of the cross section 5 can be, for example, about 1.1 or 1.2 times or more larger than the inner diameter of the aerosol exit pathway 10, but preferably less than 2.0 or 1.9 times.

[0100] Generally, this configuration improves and facilitates fluid movement within the consumable. In particular, less unused liquid aerosol-forming substrate may remain in the reservoir after use. Additionally, the configuration of the lower region allows for improved heating of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0101] FIG. 5 shows a top cross-sectional view of a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device having a different heating element 50 according to a first exemplary embodiment. The consumable 1 is shown in cross section 5, for example in the vicinity of the mouth end of the consumable 1. In this embodiment, the heating element 50 has two parts on two opposite sides corresponding to the two opposite sides of the first part 21 and the second part 22 of the upper region 20 in the range along the aerosol exit path 10. The two parts of the heating element 50 are separated by two sides that are substantially perpendicular to the two opposite sides. As can be shown, the two parts of the heating element 50 each extend over an angular range of about 60°-120°, or 70°-110°, or 80°-100°.

[0102] This is advantageous because only those parts of the consumable 1 or reservoir 15 where heating is desired or necessary are heated. In this way, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is sufficiently heated, while the remaining parts are not. In particular, heating on the two remaining sides may not be necessary, since no liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be located there. This can reduce unnecessary heating of the housing of the consumable.

[0103] FIG. 6 shows a consumable 1 for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device in a top cross-sectional view according to a second exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the cross-section of the upper region 20 of the reservoir has a rectangular outline. This is understood in that the periphery of the cross-section of the upper region 20 has a substantially rectangular shape. This may be advantageous for manufacturing purposes. The consumable 1 is shown in a cross-section 5, for example a cross-section 5 of the consumable 1 in the vicinity of the mouth end of the consumable 1. The consumable 1 comprises one or more air chambers 40. In particular, the consumable 1 comprises two air chambers 40 located between the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 of the upper region 20. The air chambers 40 are substantially closed spaces in which air can be contained or placed. The air can advantageously improve the thermal insulation of the heated components relative to the housing of the consumable 1. Thus, the housing of the consumable does not heat up as much. Furthermore, the thermal insulation improves the energy efficiency of the aerosol generating device (not shown). In this regard, the portion of the upper region 20 between the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 is characterized by a small distance between the heated aerosol in the aerosol exit path 10 and the outside of the consumable. Thus, in the absence of the air chamber 40, the outside of the consumable may be unnecessarily heated. The air chamber therefore reduces such heating of the housing of the consumable. This improves the user experience, energy management, and durability of the applied materials.

[0104] FIG. 7 shows a consumable for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a second exemplary embodiment in a cross-sectional top view, with different heating elements 50. As with the first exemplary embodiment with different heating elements 50, the heating element 50 of FIG. 7 also has two parts. In particular, the heating element 50 has two parts on two opposite sides corresponding to the two opposite sides of the first and second parts 21 and 22 of the upper region 20 in a range along the aerosol outlet path 10. The two parts of the heating element 50 are separated by two sides that are substantially perpendicular to the two opposite sides. It is advantageous if the two sides separating the two parts of the heating element 50 face the side on which the air chamber 40 is located. Thus, substantially no heat is transferred to the air chamber 40, which provides the advantage that the housing of the consumable is not unnecessarily heated. The two parts of the heating element 50 may each extend over a similar angular range as the heating element 50 of FIG. 5. The remainder of the consumable of FIG. 7 corresponds to the consumable of FIG. 6.

[0105] Figure 8 shows a consumable used in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to the third exemplary embodiment in two cross-sectional side views. The left part of this figure shows the cross-sectional side view AA shown in Figure 9. The configuration of the parts of the consumable 1 is similar to the first and second exemplary embodiments, especially the second exemplary embodiment.

[0106] The right part of this figure shows the side cross-sectional view BB shown in FIG. 9. As can be seen, the consumable 1 has two air chambers 40 located between the first part 21 and the second part 22 of the upper region 20, as in the second exemplary embodiment. The air chambers 40 have one or more upper openings 41, in particular, each air chamber 40 has two upper openings 41 (only shown in FIG. 9). The air chambers 40 can also have more than two and / or less than two upper openings 41. Preferably, at least one upper opening 41 is provided so that air can enter the first part 21 and the second part 22 of the upper region 20. The upper opening 41 is located at the upper end of the upper region 20, which is located towards the mouth end 3 of the consumable 1. The mouth end 3 is exemplarily shown in FIG. 8. The air chamber 40 also has a lower opening 42, which is located away from the mouth end 3 of the consumable 1. In particular, each air chamber 40 has one opening 42 for allowing outside air to enter the air chamber 40 .

[0107] The upper opening 41 and the lower opening 42 are advantageous because they allow air, such as external air, to enter the air chamber 40 through the lower opening 42. Furthermore, the external air can then enter the first and second parts 21 and 22 of the upper region 20 at the top in the first and second parts 21 and 22, for example, near the mouth end 3 of the consumable 1. This promotes pressure equilibrium in the reservoir 15. Thus, air can enter from the top side of the first and second parts 21 and 22 of the upper region 20, which promotes fluid movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the upper region 20 to the lower region 30, through the wick 60, through the heating element 50 having the holes 51, whereby it is vaporized, through the aerosol exit path 10, and inhaled by the user at the mouth end 3 of the consumable 1. During normal use, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the upper region 20 may be worn out, reduced, or consumed. Thus, the pressure in the upper region 20 may decrease, which prevents fluid movement from the upper region 20 to the lower region 30. Thus, balancing the pressure by the one or more upper and lower openings 41 and 42 improves the fluid flow and therefore the user experience. The circulation of air through the air chamber 40, i.e., air entering the air chamber 40 through the lower opening 42 and exiting the air chamber 40 through the upper opening 41, further promotes cooling of the housing of the consumable 1. As can be seen in FIG. 8, the one or more air chambers 40 extend parallel to the aerosol exit path 10 along the length of the upper region 20 of the reservoir 15 and along the length of the lower region 30 of the reservoir 15. Thus, the one or more air chambers 40 can thermally insulate the housing 2 of the consumable 1 from the aerosol exit path 10 that is heated or has a high temperature during normal use. However, it may also be possible for the one or more air chambers 40 to extend parallel to the aerosol exit path 10 only along the length of the upper region 20 of the reservoir 15.

[0108] FIG. 8 further illustrates that the air chamber 40 includes one or more fins 43 that occupy at least 20%, preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 60%, and most preferably at least 70% of the cross section of the air chamber 40. In this exemplary embodiment, the fins 43 occupy about 60% of the cross section of the air chamber 40. The cross section referred to here is a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the consumable 1, which is taken to be parallel to the aerosol exit path 10. The fins 43 are arranged circumferentially in the air chamber 40 and alternately protrude into the interior of the air chamber 40. In particular, the fins 43 alternately protrude by being arranged alternately between two opposite sides of the air chamber 40. In this exemplary embodiment, three fins 43 are arranged radially outward of the left air chamber 40 and two fins 43 are arranged radially inward of the left air chamber 40. Furthermore, two fins 43 are arranged radially outward of the right air chamber 40 and three fins 43 are arranged radially inward of the right air chamber 40. However, a different number is possible according to the invention. The one or more fins prevent liquid aerosol-forming substrate from inadvertently entering the air chamber 40. The fins 43 occupy an optimal cross-section of the air chamber 40 (this cross-section being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol exit path 10) to prevent any liquid aerosol-forming substrate that inadvertently enters the air chamber 40 through the top opening 41 from progressing further within the air chamber 40.

[0109] 9 shows a top cross-sectional view of a consumable 1 for use in an electrically heated aerosol generating device according to a third exemplary embodiment. In this figure, cross-sectional side views AA and BB are shown. Furthermore, this figure shows the upper opening 41 of the air chamber 40.

[0110] Fig. 10 shows an aerosol generation system 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 200 includes an aerosol generation device 100 including a power source 101. The device 100 further includes a heating means 102 for supplying energy to a heating element 50 of the consumable 1. The system 200 further includes a consumable 1. The heating means 102 is a coil or an induction coil configured to heat the heating element 50 of the consumable 1 by induction when the power source 101 is connected to the heating means 102. The heating means 102 generates a fluctuating electromagnetic field for heating the heating element of the consumable 1. The heating element is located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field and in close proximity to the heating means 102.

[0111] In all of the above exemplary embodiments, the heating element 50 is typically a susceptor and includes an electrically conductive material. Potential materials for the susceptor are graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, and any other electrically conductive element. Alternatively, a resistive heating means 102 can be applied.

[0112] In all of the above exemplary embodiments, the wick element 60 includes at least one of a ceramic material and a cotton material. The aerosol generating device 100 is a portable or handheld aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 is comfortable for a user to hold between the fingers of one hand. The consumable 1 is also a handheld consumable 1, and the same applies to the aerosol generating system 200. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1 Consumables 2. Housing 3 Oral end 5. Section 10 Aerosol exit path 15 Reservoir 20 upper area 21 First part of the upper region 22 Second part of the upper region 30 lower area 31 First part of the lower region 32 Second part of the lower region 40 Air chamber 41 Top opening 42 Lower opening 43 Finn 50 heating elements 51 holes 60 Wick Elements 100 Aerosol generating device 101 Power supply 102 Heating means 200 Aerosol Generation System

Claims

1. A consumable (1) for use in an electrically heated aerosol generation device (100), comprising: an aerosol outlet path (10); a reservoir (15) containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; a heating element (50); wherein the reservoir (15) has an upper region (20) and a lower region (30), and the upper region (20) and the lower region (30) are in fluid connection with each other; the upper region (20) is divided into a first part (21) and a second part (22), and the first part (21) and the second part (22) are arranged on two opposite sides of the aerosol outlet path (10) such that the two parts are not in direct fluid connection within the upper region (20); the aerosol-forming substrate contained by the lower region (30) is in fluid connection with the heating element (50); Consumable (1).

2. The aerosol outlet path (10) extends from a position within the housing (2) of the consumable (1), preferably in the vicinity of the heating element (50), to the mouth-side end (3) of the consumable (1), and is preferably arranged along the longitudinal axis of the consumable (1). The consumable (1) according to claim 1.

3. The upper region (20) of the reservoir (15) radially surrounds the aerosol outlet path (10). The consumable (1) according to claim 1.

4. The upper region (20) extends over at least 10%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 50%, most preferably at least 60% of the length of the reservoir (15), and / or the upper region (20) extends over at most 80%, preferably at most 70%, more preferably at most 60% of the length of the reservoir (15). The length of the reservoir (15) is measured substantially parallel to the aerosol outlet path (10). The consumable (1) according to claim 1.

5. A cross-section (5) of the consumable (1) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol outlet path (10) in the vicinity of the mouth-side end (3) of the consumable (1) has an elongated shape such as an ellipse or a rectangle. The consumable (1) according to claim 2.

6. The consumable (1) according to claim 5, wherein the elongated shape has a maximum dimension and a minimum dimension, and the maximum dimension is at least 1.0 times, preferably at least 1.4 times, more preferably at least 1.6 times, even more preferably at least 2.0 times, and most preferably at least 2.4 times larger than the minimum dimension.

7. The consumable (1) according to claim 2, wherein the minimum dimension of the cross-section (5) of the consumable (1) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol outlet path (10) in the vicinity of the mouth-side end (3) of the consumable (1) is at least 1.0 times, preferably at least 1.1 times, more preferably at least 1.2 times, even more preferably at least 1.3 times, even more preferably at least 1.4 times, and most preferably at least 1.5 times, and / or at most 2.0 times, preferably at most 1.9 times, more preferably at most 1.8 times, even more preferably at most 1.7 times, even more preferably at most 1.6 times, and most preferably at most 1.5 times larger than the inner diameter or outer diameter of the aerosol outlet path (10) in the same plane as the cross-section (5) of the consumable (1) in the vicinity of the mouth-side end (3).

8. The consumable (1) according to claim 1, comprising one or more air chambers (40), preferably two air chambers (40), located between the first part (21) and the second part (22) of the upper region (20).

9. The consumable (1) according to claim 8, wherein the one or more air chambers (40) have one or more upper openings (41) configured to allow air to enter the first part (21) and / or the second part (22) of the upper region (20) of the reservoir (15) at the upper end of the upper region (20), and the upper end of the upper region (20) is located on the mouth-side end (3) side of the consumable (1).

10. The one or more air chambers (40) have one or more lower openings (42) configured to allow ambient air to enter the one or more air chambers (40). The one or more lower openings (42) are preferably located at the lower end of the one or more air chambers (40), and the lower end of the one or more air chambers (40) is located away from the mouth-side end (3) side of the consumable (1). The consumable (1) according to claim 8.

11. The one or more air chambers (40) are arranged parallel to the aerosol outlet path (10), along the length of the upper region (20) of the reservoir (15), or along the lengths of the upper region (20) and the lower region (30) of the reservoir (15), so as to thermally insulate the outer housing (2) of the consumable (1) from the aerosol outlet path (10). The consumable (1) according to claim 8.

12. The one or more air chambers (40) include one or more fins (43) that occupy at least 20%, preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 60%, and most preferably at least 70% of the cross-section of the one or more air chambers (40), and / or at most 98%, preferably at most 90%, more preferably at most 85%, and most preferably at most 80% of the cross-section of the one or more air chambers (40). The consumable (1) according to claim 8.

13. The one or more fins (43) are circumferentially and alternately arranged on two opposite sides of the one or more air chambers (40). The consumable (1) according to claim 12.

14. The heating element (50) has two parts on two opposite sides corresponding to two opposite sides of the first part (21) and the second part (22) of the upper region (20) within the range along the aerosol outlet path (10). The two parts are separated by the two sides that are substantially perpendicular to the two opposite sides. The consumable (1) according to claim 1.

15. An aerosol generation system (200) comprising the consumable (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and an aerosol generation device (100) including a power source (101) configured to supply energy to the heating element (50) of the consumable (1).

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