Aerosol generating device with air-permeable receiving cavity

Abstract

The aerosol generating device (10) for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate comprises a cavity (200) having an opening (220) for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate, and at least one induction coil (250, 260) disposed outside the cavity and arranged to generate a varying magnetic field within the cavity in operation. The cavity is defined by a sidewall (210) extending away from the opening. The cavity sidewall (210) is formed from a non-magnetic material, preferably a non-susceptor material, and is permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air through the sidewall and into the cavity.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system.

[0002] Aerosol-generating devices configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, are known in the art. Such known devices may generate an aerosol from a substrate through the application of heat to the substrate, rather than through combustion of the substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be present as a constituent part of an aerosol-generating article that is physically separate from the aerosol-generating device. Such an aerosol-generating article may be received within a cavity of the aerosol-generating device.

[0003] In use, the device may provide electrical power to enable the transfer of heat from a heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate. During use of such known aerosol generating devices, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. The released compounds condense upon cooling to form an aerosol that is inhaled by the consumer.

[0004] Many aerosol generating devices provide heat to the outside of the aerosol generating article or aerosol forming substrate. External heating devices implementing induction heating have a metallic tubular susceptor element as a cavity to receive a consumable such as an aerosol generating article. Such systems require the susceptor element to be in intimate contact with the consumable to allow effective heat transfer and ensure proper air management. This creates a complexity in the manufacture of the consumable in terms of diameters with very tight tolerances to ensure a precise fit inside the susceptor cavity of the device. These tight tolerances mean that the consumable may get stuck inside the device as it naturally gets humidified during consumption. Thus, it is very difficult to extract the consumable from such a tubular susceptor element / cavity. To extract the fragmented consumable inside such a cavity, specific tools are required and care must be taken not to damage the shape and surface of the susceptor.

[0005] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device comprises a cavity having an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity may be defined by a sidewall extending away from the opening. At least one induction coil may be disposed external to the cavity and arranged to generate a varying electromagnetic field within the cavity upon operation. The sidewall of the cavity may be formed from a non-magnetic material. The sidewall of the cavity is permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air through the sidewall into the cavity.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device comprises a cavity having an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity is defined by a sidewall extending away from the opening. At least one induction coil is disposed outside the cavity and is arranged to generate a varying electromagnetic field within the cavity upon operation. The sidewall of the cavity is formed from a non-magnetic material. The sidewall of the cavity is permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air through the sidewall into the cavity.

[0007] Existing induction heating devices for external heating of aerosol-forming articles have a tubular susceptor cavity. In addition to the problems mentioned above, the use of a tubular susceptor cavity further limits the use of the device in terms of the variety of consumables that can be used therewith. For example, different aerosol-generating articles and consumables may require different air management setups. Also, existing devices do not facilitate customizing the consumer experience in terms of combining and using multiple different types of aerosol-generating consumables.

[0008] In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device comprises a cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article or a consumable such as a cartridge containing an aerosol generating article or an aerosol forming substrate. Preferably, an inductor located outside the cavity generates a fluctuating electromagnetic field within the cavity to inductively heat a susceptor located within the aerosol generating article or as part of a cartridge receivable within the cavity. The sidewalls of the cavity are formed from a non-magnetic material to minimize or eliminate interaction with the fluctuating electromagnetic field. Thus, the device may be configured as an inductive heating device, but the cavity of the device itself does not heat the aerosol forming substrate. The device may also be configured as an inductive heating device in which the susceptor is the element received within the cavity.

[0009] The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from any suitable non-magnetic material, preferably a material or materials having suitable chemical and UV stability.

[0010] The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from a non-susceptor material. A non-susceptor material is a material that does not undergo substantial interaction or coupling with the fluctuating electromagnetic field. A non-susceptor material does not heat in the fluctuating electromagnetic field. The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from a polymeric material, for example, polypropylene or polyethylene or polycarbonate. The sidewalls may be formed from a ceramic material or a glass material. The sidewalls may be formed from a composite material, for example, a polymer matrix composite material.

[0011] The side walls of the cavity may be formed from a non-magnetic metallic material. Such materials may have minimal coupling with the fluctuating electromagnetic field. Thus, heating of the cavity walls is minimal or non-existent. The side walls of the cavity may be formed from a metal selected from the list consisting of aluminum, aluminum alloys, brass, copper, copper alloys, and non-ferromagnetic stainless steel.

[0012] The term "aerosol" as used herein refers to a dispersion of solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. Aerosols may be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include not only vapors of substances that are normally liquids or solids at room temperature, but also solid particles or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets.

[0013] The term "aerosol-forming substrate" as used herein refers to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The volatile compound may be released by heating or burning the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0014] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate, which may include one or more of powders, granules, pellets, shreds, threads, strips or sheets, including one or more of herb leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, expanded tobacco and homogenized tobacco.

[0015] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a solid component and a liquid component. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid, gel or paste aerosol-forming substrate.

[0016] The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of a powder, granules, pellets, pieces, threads, strips or sheets. A solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the surface of the carrier, for example in the form of a sheet, foam, gel or slurry. The aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the entire surface of the carrier, or alternatively, may be deposited in a pattern to provide a non-uniform flavor delivery during use.

[0017] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant-derived material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized plant-derived material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco-containing material. The tobacco-containing material may contain volatile tobacco flavour compounds. These compounds may be released from the aerosol-forming substrate on heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise other additives and ingredients such as flavourants.

[0018] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "homogenized tobacco material" refers to a material formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco.

[0019] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an assembly of sheets of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "sheet" refers to a layered element having a width and length generally greater than its thickness. As used herein, the term "assembled" is used to describe a sheet that is rolled, folded, or otherwise compressed or contracted generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0020] The aerosol-forming substrate may include an aerosol former. As used herein, the term "aerosol former" is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of an aerosol when used and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Suitable aerosol formers are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, etc.), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, triacetate, etc.), and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate, etc.). Preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols (e.g., propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and most preferably, glycerin) or mixtures thereof.

[0021] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a single aerosol former. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise glycerin as the only aerosol former or propylene glycol as the only aerosol former. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a combination of two or more aerosol formers. For example, the aerosol former components of the aerosol-forming substrate may be glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0022] The term "aerosol-generating article" or "consumable" as used herein refers to an article that includes or consists of an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article or consumable may include components in addition to the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article or consumable may be a smoking article. The aerosol-generating article or consumable may generate an aerosol that is inhalable directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating article or consumable may be a smoking article that generates a nicotine-containing aerosol that is inhalable directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating article or consumable may be in the form of a rod.

[0023] The term "cartridge" as used herein refers to a component that can be removably received by an aerosol generating device in which is placed or contained an aerosol-generating article or consumable that includes or consists of an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0024] As used herein, the term "susceptor cartridge" refers to a cartridge that includes a susceptor for heating an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0025] The term "aerosol generating device" as used herein refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating device may interact with an aerosol-generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate or with a cartridge holding the aerosol-forming substrate or the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating device may heat the aerosol-forming substrate to promote the release of volatile compounds from the substrate. The aerosol generating device may be an electrically operated aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise an atomizer, such as an electric heater, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol. The aerosol generating device comprises a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article or cartridge. The aerosol generating device preferably comprises an inductor for generating a varying electromagnetic field in the cavity.

[0026] As used herein, the terms "axial" and "longitudinal" are used to describe the direction between a downstream, proximal or mouth end of a component, such as an aerosol generating device, cartridge or aerosol generating article, and the opposing upstream or distal end of the component.

[0027] As used herein, the terms "radial" and "transverse" are used to describe directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0028] As used herein, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum longitudinal dimension between a distal or upstream end of a component, such as an aerosol generating device, cartridge or aerosol generating article, and an opposing upstream or distal end of the component.

[0029] As used herein, the term "width" is used to describe the transverse dimension of a component such as an aerosol generating device, cartridge, or aerosol generating article.

[0030] As used herein, the term "diameter" is used to describe the largest transverse dimension of a component such as an aerosol generating device, cartridge, or aerosol generating article.

[0031] At least a portion of the sidewall of the cavity is preferably formed from a radially porous material. The ability to allow radial inflow of air into the cavity allows consumables of different configurations to be used with the device.

[0032] The sidewall may have a major dimension extending away from the opening of the cavity. Between 50% and 100% of the major dimension of the sidewall may be formed from a radially porous material. Substantially all of the sidewall may be formed from a radially porous material. The radially porous material may be in the form of a mesh or net. The radially porous material is preferably in the form of a tube, e.g., a raised tube, e.g., a raised tubular polymeric mesh. The radial porosity may be formed by holes defined through a portion of the sidewall.

[0033] The sidewall may have a total porosity of 40% to 95%, preferably 50% to 90%, preferably 60% to 80%.

[0034] The cavity of the device may be substantially cylindrical, for example substantially circular cylindrical. The side walls of the cavity may be substantially tubular. Thus, the cavity may be capable of receiving a substantially cylindrical aerosol generating article or a substantially cylindrical cartridge. The cross section of the cavity may be substantially circular, but other cross sections are also possible, for example oval or polygonal shapes such as square, rectangular or hexagonal. The cavity of the device may have a length of 20 mm to 100 mm. The cavity may have a length of, for example, at least 20, 30, 40 or 50 millimeters. The cavity may have a length of less than 100, 80 or 60 millimeters. The cavity may have a width of 3 mm to 30 mm. The cavity may have a width of at least 3, 5 or 10 millimeters. The cavity may have a width of less than 30, 20 or 15 millimeters.

[0035] The aerosol generating device may comprise a housing, the cavity being disposed by or within the housing. One or more air inlets are preferably defined within the housing to enable an airflow path into the cavity. The one or more airflow paths preferably extend from the one or more air inlets to an outer surface of a sidewall of the cavity, thus enabling a radial inflow of air into the cavity. The housing may include a sidewall.

[0036] The device may comprise a cavity base for supporting the aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol-generating article comprising the aerosol-forming substrate when received within the cavity. The cavity base may be longitudinally movable within the sidewall of the cavity. For example, the cavity base may resemble a plunger or piston arranged for longitudinal movement within the cavity. The cavity base may be longitudinally movable between a first position and a second position, where in the first position the cavity base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position. Thus, movement of the cavity base within the cavity may facilitate removal of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge received within the cavity by allowing the article or cartridge to be at least partially pushed out of the opening of the cavity. The housing may include a cavity base.

[0037] The hollow base may be biased by a biasing element. For example, the hollow base may be biased by a spring. The biasing element or spring may bias the hollow base in a direction toward the opening of the cavity. Such a biasing element may help to facilitate movement of the base and withdrawal of the aerosol generating article or cartridge from the cavity.

[0038] The aerosol generating device may comprise a latch or latching means for releasably holding the hollow base in a first position. The aerosol generating device may comprise a latch or latching means for releasably holding the hollow base in its second position. Thus, when latched, the hollow base may be stable in one or both of its first and second positions and may be movable from that position when the latch is released.

[0039] The first position of the cavity base may be defined by a stop that acts to prevent further movement of the cavity base toward the cavity opening. For example, the stop may include a ledge defined by or in the sidewall or a protrusion extending radially from the sidewall.

[0040] The cavity sidewall may have a proximal end toward the cavity opening, and a distal end. The distal end of the sidewall may terminate in an end face or cap. The cavity base may be disposed proximal to the end face or cap. A hole may be defined through the end face or cap.

[0041] The sidewall may be integral with the housing of the device. The sidewall may be connected to the housing of the device. The sidewall may be removably or permanently connected to the housing of the device.

[0042] The cavity base may have a first surface facing the cavity opening and a second surface facing away from the cavity opening. The second surface may be coupled or connected to a push rod, which extends away from the second surface. The push rod may be dimensioned to extend through a hole in the end face or cap. Movement of the cavity base may thus be caused by acting on the push rod. The push rod may protrude from the body of the aerosol generating device when an aerosol-forming substrate, or an aerosol-generating article including the aerosol-forming substrate, or a cartridge including the aerosol-generating article or aerosol-forming substrate is positioned in the cavity. The cavity base and the push rod may form a manually actuable ejector to facilitate removal of the aerosol-forming substrate, aerosol-generating article, or cartridge from the cavity.

[0043] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a removable mouthpiece, which is removably attachable to the aerosol generating device in a position covering the opening of the cavity. The removable mouthpiece may be removed to allow an aerosol generating article or cartridge to be inserted into the device. Alternatively, the aerosol generating article or cartridge may comprise the mouthpiece.

[0044] Preferably, the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article or cartridge comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for interacting with a fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the at least one induction coil to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. The at least one induction coil may be adjacent to the cavity. The at least one induction coil may radially surround a portion of the cavity.

[0045] The aerosol generating device may include an inductor, such as an induction coil and a power source. The power source may be configured to pass an alternating current through the inductor such that the inductor generates a varying or oscillating electromagnetic field. The alternating current may have any suitable frequency. The alternating current may be a high frequency alternating current. The alternating current may have a frequency of 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). If the inductor is a tubular inductor coil, the alternating current may have a frequency of 500 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). If the inductor is a planar inductor coil, the alternating current may have a frequency of 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 1 megahertz (MHz).

[0046] The aerosol generating device may include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, both of which are arranged to generate a varying magnetic field in the cavity during operation. The first induction coil may be arranged to generate a varying magnetic field in a first portion of the cavity, and the second induction coil may be arranged to generate a varying magnetic field in a second portion of the cavity. In this manner, the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be arranged to heat a portion of a susceptor or susceptors located in different portions of the cavity.

[0047] The first induction coil may be configured to generate a first variable magnetic field in the cavity, the first variable magnetic field having a first magnetic field characteristic, and the second induction coil may be configured to generate a second variable magnetic field in the cavity, the second variable magnetic field having a second magnetic field characteristic, the second magnetic field characteristic being different from the first magnetic field characteristic. The device may be configured to control the first and second induction coils to provide control of the heating of the susceptor in the cavity or to allow the device to be configured to operate with different types of susceptors disposed in the cavity. For example, the device may be configured to heat a first type of susceptor disposed in the aerosol-generating article and a second type of susceptor disposed in a removable cartridge, both of which are dimensioned to be received in the cavity. By using two or more induction coils, the device can heat susceptors of different sizes and shapes, for example, both rod or blade shaped susceptors and tubular susceptors. Thus, the aerosol generating device is configured to be used with a greater variety of consumables, providing the user with more options.

[0048] The aerosol generating device preferably comprises at least one power supply, e.g. a power supply for supplying power to at least one induction coil of the device. The device preferably comprises at least one controller, e.g. a controller configured to control the supply of power to the at least one induction coil.

[0049] The aerosol generating device may comprise a detector or detection means for detecting the presence within the cavity of an aerosol-forming substrate, cartridge or aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0050] The apparatus may be configured to operate with a first type of aerosol-generating article or cartridge and a second type of aerosol-generating article or cartridge different from the first type of aerosol-generating article or cartridge, the first type of aerosol-generating article or cartridge including an aerosol-forming substrate and a first susceptor arrangement for heating the aerosol-forming substrate, and the second type of aerosol-generating article or cartridge including an aerosol-forming substrate and a second susceptor arrangement for heating the aerosol-forming substrate, the first susceptor arrangement and the second susceptor arrangement may differ in one or more susceptor parameters selected from the list consisting of susceptor material, susceptor shape, susceptor dimensions, and susceptor position relative to the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0051] The apparatus may be configured to detect whether a first type of aerosol-generating article and a second type of aerosol-generating article are received within the cavity, and the apparatus may be configured to control the at least one induction coil to generate a varying magnetic field suitable for heating a susceptor of the aerosol-generating article of that type.

[0052] According to one aspect of the disclosure, an aerosol generating device as defined above is provided, and an aerosol generating article or cartridge configured to be received within a cavity of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating article or cartridge comprising:

[0053] An aerosol-generating system is provided that includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate when coupled with a varying magnetic field generated by an induction coil of an aerosol-generating device.

[0054] The susceptor may be or include any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferred susceptor materials may be heated to temperatures in excess of 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400 degrees Celsius. Preferred susceptor materials may include metals suitable for coupling with a fluctuating electromagnetic field. Preferred susceptor materials may include ferromagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron, or ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel, or nickel, or cobalt. Preferred susceptor materials may include or be formed from 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, or grade 420, or grade 430 stainless steel. Different materials dissipate different amounts of energy when placed in an electromagnetic field having similar values ​​of frequency and field strength. Thus, the parameters of the susceptor material, such as material type, size, etc., may be modified to provide a desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field.

[0055] The aerosol-generating article or cartridge may be in the form of a rod having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the rod being dimensioned to be received within a cavity of an aerosol-generating device, and the aerosol-forming substrate being disposed within the rod.

[0056] The one or more susceptors are disposed internally within the rod for heating the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the one or more susceptors may be radially centrally disposed within the rod, or the one or more susceptors may be disposed at a radially outer portion of the rod. The one or more susceptors may surround a portion of the rod. An outer layer of the rod may include the one or more susceptors. The one or more susceptors may be disposed in contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. The one or more susceptors may be a component part of a disposable aerosol-generating article, for example, an aerosol-generating article sized to be received within a cavity of an aerosol-generating device, or within a reusable cartridge sized to be received within a cavity of an aerosol-generating device.

[0057] The aerosol-generating article or cartridge may define an airflow path extending between a distal end of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge and a proximal end of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge. The aerosol-generating article or cartridge may define an airflow path where at least a portion of the airflow path through the article extends between a radial air inlet disposed between the distal end of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge and the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge, and an air outlet at the distal end of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge. Air may flow into the radial airflow inlet of the article or cartridge through an air-permeable wall of the aerosol generator cavity.

[0058] An aerosol-generating article or cartridge suitable for use with the system may be an elongated aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate disposed within a housing or wrapper, wherein one or more holes or porous areas defined through the housing or wrapper permit radial airflow into the aerosol-generating article.

[0059] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate, for example an aerosol-forming substrate consisting of or comprising tobacco material.The aerosol-forming substrate may be or comprise a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, for example an aerosol-forming substrate comprising glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0060] Aerosol-generating articles suitable for use with the system may be disposable aerosol-generating articles configured to be disposed of after a single use. The aerosol-generating article may comprise multiple components including an aerosol-forming substrate assembled in the form of a rod within a wrapper. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a susceptor disposed within the wrapper. The wrapper of the aerosol-generating article may include or consist of the susceptor.

[0061] Aerosol-generating articles or cartridge elements suitable for use with the system may include a reusable portion and a disposable portion. The reusable portion may be in the form of a cartridge configured to be received within a cavity. The cartridge may have a housing including a susceptor material and defining a cartridge cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The disposable portion may be an article or consumable including an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge cavity may be configured to receive one or more separate consumables.

[0062] The reusable portion or cartridge may have a longitudinal dimension and a radial dimension, and one or more holes or porous areas may be defined through a wall of the housing to form one or more radial air intakes into the cartridge cavity.

[0063] The cartridge housing may define an axial air inlet. The axial air inlet may allow air to flow axially into the housing. The housing may define an air outlet. The air outlet may be downstream of the axial air inlet. The air outlet may be at the axial air outlet. The air outlet may allow air to flow axially out of the housing. The housing may define a first airflow path from the axial air inlet to the air outlet. Advantageously, the axial air inlet and axial air outlet may allow for use of the cartridge with a consumable configured to have axial airflow therethrough, for example a consumable having an impermeable barrier around its periphery but a permeable barrier or no barrier at its axial end.

[0064] The housing of the cartridge may have a proximal or downstream end and a distal or upstream end. The housing may be or may include a partially or completely hollow tube. The tube may be defined between the proximal or downstream end and the distal or upstream end. The tube may define a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0065] The cartridge cavity may be suitable for receiving one or more consumables. As mentioned above, the term "consumable" may refer to an article that includes or consists of an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity may be suitable for receiving multiple consumables. Advantageously, the ability to hold multiple consumables may enable a user to customize their experience by using multiple consumables of different flavors.

[0066] Each consumable may have an axial length between an upstream end and a downstream end. Each consumable may have a transverse diameter. The cartridge cavity may be adapted to receive a plurality of consumables such that the consumables are axially disposed within the cavity. The cavity may be adapted to receive a plurality of consumables such that an upstream end of a first consumable received within the cavity is disposed adjacent to, and optionally abutting, a downstream end of a second consumable received within the cavity. Additionally, an upstream end of a second consumable received within the cavity may be disposed adjacent to, and optionally abutting, a downstream end of a third consumable received within the cavity. The cavity may be adapted to receive a plurality of consumables such that a first consumable received within the cavity is completely downstream of a second consumable received within the cavity. Additionally, a second consumable received within the cavity may be completely downstream of a third consumable received within the cavity. Advantageously, allowing this arrangement within the cavity may allow the user to customize their experience by using different sequences of different flavoured consumables within the cavity.

[0067] The cavity may be configured to securely retain one or more consumables received within the cavity. For example, the cavity may be sized to securely retain one or more consumables received within the cavity using an interference or friction fit. Advantageously, this may eliminate the need for a separate mechanism for securely retaining the consumables within the cavity.

[0068] The cartridge housing may define a first radial air inlet. The first radial air inlet may be upstream of the air outlet. The first radial air inlet may be downstream of the axial air inlet. A second airflow path may be defined from the first radial air inlet to the air outlet. The first radial air inlet may allow air to flow radially into the housing.

[0069] The cartridge housing may define a second radial air inlet. The second radial air inlet may be upstream of the air outlet. The second air inlet may be axially spaced along the housing from the first radial air inlet. The second radial air inlet may be downstream of the first radial air inlet. A third airflow path may be defined from the second radial air inlet to the air outlet. The second radial air inlet may allow air to flow radially into the housing.

[0070] The cartridge housing may define a third radial air inlet. The third radial air inlet may be upstream of the air outlet. The third radial air inlet may be spaced apart along the housing from the first and second radial air inlets. The third radial air inlet may be downstream of the second radial air inlet. A fourth airflow path may be defined from the third radial air inlet to the air outlet. The third radial air inlet may allow air to flow radially into the housing.

[0071] The first radial air inlet may be positioned to align with a first consumable received within the cavity. In use, air may flow through the first radial air inlet and then through the first consumable, e.g., a permeable outer portion, or peripheral portion, of the first consumable. Air may then flow axially through the housing. If a second consumable is received within the cavity, air may flow axially through the first consumable and then through the second consumable. If a third consumable is also received within the cavity, air may flow axially through the second consumable and then through the third consumable.

[0072] The second radial air inlet may be positioned to align with a second consumable received within the cavity. In use, air may flow through the second radial air inlet and then through the second consumable, e.g., a permeable outer portion, or peripheral portion, of the second consumable. Air may then flow axially through the housing. If a third consumable is also received within the cavity, air may flow axially through the second consumable and then through the third consumable.

[0073] The third radial air inlet may be positioned to align with a third consumable received within the cavity. In use, air may flow through the third radial air inlet and then through the third consumable, e.g., a permeable outer portion, or peripheral portion, of the third consumable. Air may then flow axially through the housing.

[0074] Advantageously, using radial air inlets in this manner may enhance the user experience as fresh air may flow through each of the consumables. In contrast, if only axial air inlets are present, the air flowing through the second consumable may not be fresh as it has already flowed through the first consumable. In this context, the term "fresh air" is used to refer to air that has not yet flowed through a consumable.

[0075] The cartridge housing may define both an axial air inlet and one or more radial air inlets. For example, the housing may define an axial air inlet and any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air inlets. Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air inlets may be located downstream of the axial air inlet. An air outlet may be downstream of the axial air inlet and the radial air inlet(s). The airflow path from the axial air inlet to the air outlet may merge with any one, two, or all of the airflow path(s) from the first, second, or third air inlet to the air outlet. Advantageously, the inclusion of the axial air inlet and the radial air inlet may reduce the draw resistance of the cartridge by allowing a larger air flow rate into the housing. Advantageously, this may also allow the cartridge to be used with a greater variety of consumables. This is because the cartridge may be suitable for use with consumables intended for axial air flow therethrough, as well as consumables intended for radial air flow therethrough.

[0076] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air inlets may be formed by an air permeable portion of the cartridge housing. Thus, the first radial air inlet may be formed by a first air permeable portion of the housing. The second radial air inlet may be formed by a second air permeable portion of the housing. The third air inlet may be formed by a third air permeable portion of the housing.

[0077] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third air permeable portions of the housing may include one or more porous materials and a plurality of holes, such as a plurality of slits.

[0078] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third air permeable portions of the housing may have a porosity of 40% to 95%, or 50% to 90%, or 60% to 80%. In this context, the term "porosity" may be used as a measure of the area of ​​free space through the walls of the housing. Thus, if the air permeable portion includes a plurality of holes surrounded by solid material, the percentage of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air permeable portion formed by the holes may be 40% to 95%, or 50% to 90%, or 60% to 80% (with the remaining 60% to 5%, or 50% to 10%, or 40% to 20% formed by solid material). Advantageously, these porosity ranges may provide optimal coverage of many factors, including allowing an adequate amount of air to flow through the cartridge, allowing an adequate level of heating of the susceptor material of the housing proximate to the air permeable portion, providing optimal draw resistance through the cartridge, and maintaining the structural integrity of the housing.

[0079] The first air permeable portion may include a first annular or substantially annular air permeable band within the housing. The first annular air permeable band may include a first plurality of holes within the housing.

[0080] The second air permeable portion may include a second annular or substantially annular air permeable band within the housing. The second annular air permeable band may include a second plurality of holes within the housing. The second annular air permeable band may be spaced apart along the housing from the first annular air permeable band.

[0081] The third air permeable portion may include a third annular or substantially tubular air permeable band within the housing. The third annular air permeable band may include a third plurality of holes within the housing. The third annular air permeable band may be spaced apart from the first and second annular air permeable bands.

[0082] The first air permeable band may have a first permeability through which air flows. The second air permeable band may have a second permeability through which air flows. The third air permeable band may have a third permeability through which air flows. The first permeability may be different from the second permeability. The first permeability may be different from the third permeability. The second permeability may be different from the third permeability. The first air permeable band, the second air permeable band, and the third air permeable band may all have different permeabilities.

[0083] Advantageously, these different permeabilities may allow a user to customize their experience by determining where to place the consumable within the cartridge based on the expected flow rate of air through the air permeable bands. For example, if a user wishes to maximize the flavor present in a particular consumable, that consumable may be received within the cavity such that it is aligned with the air permeable band having the highest permeability.

[0084] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third annular air permeable bands of the housing may extend around at least 50, 60, 70, 80, or 90% of the circumference of the housing. Thus, it will be appreciated that the annular air permeable bands may, but do not necessarily, extend around the entire circumference or perimeter of the housing.

[0085] The cartridge may be a susceptor cartridge usable with an aerosol generating device configured to inductively heat the susceptor material of the cartridge, for example, an aerosol generating device as described above. For example, the cartridge may be configured to be used with an aerosol generating device including an inductor, such as an inductor coil. The aerosol generating device may include a power source. The power source may be configured to pass an alternating current through the inductor such that the inductor generates a varying electromagnetic field. The device may be configured such that the cartridge may be placed within the varying electromagnetic field. The alternating current may be a high frequency alternating current. This may then generate eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the susceptor material. This may heat the susceptor material. Thus, the power source and the inductor may be configured to inductively heat the susceptor material.

[0086] The susceptor material may comprise more than 50, 60, 70, or 80% by weight of the housing. The housing may consist of or be formed from the susceptor material. Advantageously, a higher percentage of the housing formed from the susceptor material may result in greater inductive heating of the housing in an inductively heated aerosol generation system.

[0087] The susceptor material may be in contact with the consumable or aerosol-forming substrate within the cavity during use. Advantageously, this may result in more efficient heat transfer from the susceptor material to the consumable or aerosol-forming substrate during use.

[0088] The cartridge cavity may have a length of 20 mm to 100 mm. The cavity may have a length of at least 20, 30, 40 or 50 millimeters. The cavity may have a length of less than 100, 80 or 60 millimeters. The cavity may have a width of 3 mm to 30 mm. The cavity may have a width of at least 3, 5 or 10 millimeters. The cavity may have a width of less than 30, 20 or 15 millimeters. The cavity may be substantially cylindrical in shape, for example substantially right cylindrical in shape. The cavity may have a circular transverse cross-section, or an elliptical transverse cross-section, or a polygonal transverse cross-section.

[0089] The cartridge may include a reusable mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may include or be formed from a polymer or ceramic. Advantageously, a reusable cartridge may be more environmentally friendly than a disposable cartridge.

[0090] An airflow path may be defined through the mouthpiece. In use, air may flow or be drawn through the cartridge housing into the cartridge and then through the mouthpiece to the user.

[0091] The present disclosure may provide a method of generating an aerosol using the aerosol generating device or aerosol generating system described above. The method may include disposing an aerosol generating article or cartridge including an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor in a cavity of the aerosol generating device, and operating at least one induction coil of the aerosol generating device to generate a varying magnetic field in the cavity of the device, the varying magnetic field being coupled with the susceptor to heat the susceptor to an operating temperature, thereby heating the aerosol-forming substrate and forming an aerosol. The method may further include sucking on a mouthpiece in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate to inhale the aerosol.

[0092] When a user draws on the mouthpiece, which may be the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating article, the mouthpiece of the cartridge, or the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device, depending on the configuration, air is drawn into the aerosol generating device, preferably through an air inlet defined in the housing of the device, and into the cavity of the device. In a preferred configuration, air is drawn into the cavity of the device through an air permeable region in the sidewall of the cavity. The air then passes over the heated aerosol-forming substrate toward the mouth of the user, entraining the volatile compounds. An aerosol is formed in the airflow and is inhaled by the user.

[0093] The method may include the further step of ejecting the aerosol generating article or cartridge from the aerosol generating device after use.

[0094] The cavity of the device may comprise a cavity base longitudinally movable between a first position and a second position, in which the cavity base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position. The method may then include inserting the aerosol-generating article into the cavity until it contacts the cavity base, applying pressure to move the cavity base from the first position to the second position, the second position being an operating position, and holding the cavity base in the second position during generation of the aerosol. The method may then include ejecting the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating device by moving the cavity base from the second position to the first position, the first position being an ejection position, whereby the aerosol-generating article moves in a direction towards the cavity opening.

[0095] The present disclosure includes the following numbered examples:

[0096] Example 1 An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, comprising: a cavity having an opening for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate, a cavity defined by a sidewall extending away from the opening; at least one induction coil disposed external to the cavity and arranged, in operation, to generate a varying magnetic field within the cavity; a sidewall of the cavity is formed from a non-magnetic material; An aerosol generating device, wherein the sidewall of the cavity is permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air through the sidewall and into the cavity. Example 2 2. An aerosol generating device according to embodiment 1, wherein the sidewalls of the cavity are formed from a non-susceptor material. Example 3 3. An aerosol generating device according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the sidewall of the cavity is formed from a polymeric material. Example 4 3. An aerosol generating device according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the side wall is made of a ceramic material or a glass material. Example 5: An aerosol generating device according to example 1 or 2, wherein the side wall is formed from a composite material, for example a polymer matrix composite material. Example 6 2. An aerosol generating device according to embodiment 1, wherein the side walls of the cavity are formed from a non-magnetic metallic material. Example 7 7. An aerosol generating device according to embodiment 6, wherein the side wall of the cavity is formed from a metal selected from the list consisting of aluminum, aluminum alloy, brass, copper, copper alloy, and non-ferromagnetic stainless steel. Example 8 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 7, wherein at least a portion of the side wall is formed from a radially porous material. Example 9 An aerosol generating device according to example 8, wherein the sidewall has a major dimension extending away from the opening of the cavity, and 50%-100% of the major dimension of the sidewall is formed from a radially porous material. Example 10 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 9, wherein substantially all of the sidewall is formed from a radially porous material. Example 11. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 10, wherein the radially porous material is a mesh or net. Example 12 The aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the sidewall has a total porosity of 40% to 95%, preferably 50% to 90%, preferably 60% to 80%. Example 13 An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the cavity is substantially cylindrical. Example 14 An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the side wall is substantially tubular. Example 15 An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the transverse cross section of the cavity is substantially circular. Example 16 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 15, comprising a cavity base for supporting an aerosol-forming substrate, or an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, when received within the cavity. Example 17 17. An aerosol generating device according to embodiment 16, wherein the cavity base is disposed within the side wall of the cavity so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction. Example 18 An aerosol generating device according to Example 17, wherein the hollow base is longitudinally movable between a first position and a second position, and in the first position the hollow base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position. Example 19 19. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 16 to 18, wherein the hollow base is biased by a spring. Example 20 20. An aerosol generating device according to embodiment 19, wherein the hollow base is biased by a spring in a direction towards the opening. Example 21 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 18 to 20, wherein the device comprises a latch for releasably retaining the hollow base in the second position. Example 22 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 18 to 21, wherein the device comprises a latch for releasably retaining the hollow base in the first position. Example 23 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 18 to 22, wherein the first position is defined by a stop, the stop acting to prevent the cavity base from moving further towards the opening of the cavity. Example 24 24. An aerosol generating device according to example 23, wherein the stop comprises a ledge defined by the sidewall or a protrusion extending radially from the sidewall. Example 25 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the side wall has a proximal end toward the opening of the cavity and a distal end, the distal end of the side wall terminating in an end face or cap. Example 26 26. An aerosol generating device according to example 25, wherein the hole is defined through the end face or the cap. Example 27 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 16 to 26, wherein the hollow base has a first surface facing the cavity opening and a second surface facing away from the cavity opening, the second surface being coupled or connected to a push rod, the push rod extending away from the second surface. Example 28 The aerosol generating device according to Example 27, when dependent on Example 26, wherein the hole in the end face or cap is dimensioned to allow the push rod to extend therethrough. Example 29 29. An aerosol generating device according to Example 28, wherein the push rod protrudes from the body of the device when the aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate is positioned within the cavity. Example 30 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 27-29, wherein the cavity base and the push rod form a manually actuable ejector for facilitating removal of the aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity. Example 31 An aerosol-generating apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 30, configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for interacting with the fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the induction coil to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 32 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 31, further comprising a removable mouthpiece, the removable mouthpiece being removably attachable to the aerosol generating device in a position covering the opening of the cavity. Example 33 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 32, wherein at least one induction coil radially surrounds a portion of the cavity. Example 34 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 33, comprising a first induction coil and a second induction coil, both of which are arranged to generate a varying magnetic field within the cavity when in operation. Example 35 An aerosol generating device according to Example 34, wherein a first induction coil is arranged to generate a varying magnetic field within a first portion of the cavity, and a second induction coil is arranged to generate a varying magnetic field within a second portion of the cavity. Example 36 An aerosol generating device according to example 34 or 35, wherein the first induction coil is configured to generate a first varying magnetic field in the cavity, the first varying magnetic field having a first magnetic field characteristic, and the second induction coil is configured to generate a second varying magnetic field in the cavity, the second varying magnetic field having a second magnetic field characteristic, the second magnetic field characteristic being different from the first magnetic field characteristic. Example 37 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the device further comprises a power source for supplying power to the at least one induction coil. Example 38 The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 37, wherein the device further comprises a controller configured to control the supply of power to the at least one induction coil. Example 39 An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 38, wherein the apparatus comprises a detector for detecting the presence within a cavity of an aerosol-forming substrate, or an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 40 An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 39, wherein the apparatus is configured to operate with a first type of aerosol generating article and a second type of aerosol generating article different from the first type of aerosol generating article, the first type of aerosol generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate and a first susceptor arrangement for heating the aerosol-forming substrate, and the second type of aerosol generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate and a second susceptor arrangement for heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 41 41. The aerosol generating apparatus according to embodiment 40, wherein the first susceptor configuration and the second susceptor configuration differ in one or more susceptor parameters selected from the list consisting of susceptor material, susceptor shape, susceptor dimensions, and susceptor position relative to the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 42 An aerosol generating device according to Example 41, wherein the device is configured to detect whether a first type of aerosol generating article and a second type of aerosol generating article are received within the cavity, and controls at least one induction coil to generate a varying magnetic field suitable for heating a susceptor of that type of aerosol generating article. Example 43 An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device as defined in any one of Examples 1 to 42 and an aerosol-generating article adapted to be received within a cavity of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol-generating article comprising: An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate when coupled with a varying magnetic field generated by an induction coil of an aerosol generating device. Example 44 An aerosol generating system according to Example 43, wherein the aerosol generating article is in the form of a rod having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the rod is dimensioned to be received within a cavity of the aerosol generating device, and the aerosol-forming substrate is disposed within the rod. Example 45 45. The aerosol-generating system according to example 44, wherein one or more susceptors are disposed internally within the rod to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 46 46. ​​The aerosol generating system according to example 45, wherein the one or more susceptors are radially centered within the rod. Example 47 45. The aerosol generating system according to example 44, wherein the one or more susceptors are positioned radially outward of the rod. Example 48 47. The aerosol generating system according to embodiment 45 or 46, wherein the one or more susceptors surround a portion of the rod. Example 49 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 45-48, wherein the outer layer of the rod comprises one or more susceptors. Example 50 50. The aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 45-49, wherein the one or more susceptors are disposed in contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 51 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43-50, wherein the aerosol-generating article defines an airflow path extending between a distal end of the aerosol-generating article and a proximal end of the aerosol-generating article. Example 52 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43-51, wherein at least a portion of the airflow path through the article extends between a radial air inlet located between the distal end of the aerosol-generating article and the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article, and an air outlet at the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. Example 53 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 52, wherein the aerosol generating article is an elongated aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate disposed within a housing or wrapper, and one or more holes or porous areas defined through the housing or wrapper permit radial airflow into the aerosol-generating article. Example 54 54. An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 53, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, for example an aerosol-forming substrate consisting of or comprising tobacco material. Example 55 The aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 54, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate comprises a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, for example an aerosol-forming substrate comprising glycerin or propylene glycol. Example 56 An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 43 to 55, wherein the aerosol generating article is a disposable aerosol generating article configured to be discarded after a single use. Example 57 An aerosol-generating system according to Example 56, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises multiple components including an aerosol-forming substrate assembled within a wrapper in the form of a rod. Example 58 An aerosol-generating system according to Example 57, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises a susceptor disposed within the wrapper. Example 59 The aerosol generating system according to Example 57, wherein the wrapper may include or consist of a susceptor. Example 60 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 55, wherein the aerosol generating article includes a reusable portion and a disposable portion, the reusable portion being in the form of a cartridge configured to be received within a cavity, the cartridge having a housing including a susceptor material and defining a cartridge cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate, and the disposable portion including the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 61 An aerosol generation system according to Example 60, wherein the cartridge has a longitudinal dimension and a radial dimension, and one or more holes or porous areas are defined through the wall of the housing to form one or more radial air inlets into the cartridge cavity. Example 62 An aerosol-generating article configured to be used together with an aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 42. Example 63 An aerosol-generating article for use in the aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples 43 to 61. Example 64 A method for generating an aerosol using an aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 42 or an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 43 to 61, placing an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor within a cavity of an aerosol-generating device; A method comprising: operating at least one induction coil of an aerosol generating device to generate a varying magnetic field within a cavity, the varying magnetic field being coupled to a susceptor to heat the susceptor to an operating temperature, thereby heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol. Example 65 The method according to example 64, further comprising the step of inhaling the aerosol by sucking on a mouthpiece in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 66 The method according to example 64 or 65, further comprising the step of discharging the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating device after use. Example 67 A method according to either of Examples 64 or 65, wherein the cavity includes a cavity base movable longitudinally between a first position and a second position, where in the first position the cavity base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position, and the method includes inserting an aerosol-generating article into the cavity until it contacts the cavity base, applying pressure to move the cavity base from the first position to the second position, where the second position is an operating position, and holding the cavity base in the second position during generation of aerosol. Example 68 A method according to Example 67, comprising the step of discharging the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating device by moving the cavity base from a second position to a first position, the first position being an ejection position, whereby the aerosol-generating article moves in a direction toward the cavity opening. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0097] Specific embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures.

[0098] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a cutaway view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a flow diagram illustrating the relationships between the electronic components of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows an example of a mesh configuration that may be used to form the air permeable cavity of an aerosol generating device. [Diagram 5] 5, 6 and 7 show the insertion of an aerosol-generating article into the cavity of an aerosol-generating device and the withdrawal of the aerosol-generating article. [Figure 6] Same as above. [Figure 7] Same as above. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of the cavity of the device engaged with a disposable aerosol-generating article having an internal susceptor. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of the cavity of the device engaged with a partially reusable type aerosol-generating article comprising a susceptor cartridge. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generating device with a removable mouthpiece attached. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0099] 1 shows an aerosol generating device according to a particular embodiment of the invention. The device 10 comprises a housing 20 in which a battery power source is located, a first induction coil, a second induction coil, electronics including a controller for controlling power from the battery to the first and second induction coils, and a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. An activation button 30 is located on the housing 20. An opening to the cavity is closed by an openable cover 40.

[0100] Figure 2 is a cutaway view of the aerosol generating device 10 of Figure 1. The battery 110 is disposed within a first portion of the housing along with electronics 120. The electronics 120 includes electronics 126 for controlling charging of the battery 110, a controller 125 for controlling power supplied to the first and second induction coils, and electrical connections between the battery 110, the induction coils, the activation button 30, and a charging means, such as a charging port 95 defined through the housing.

[0101] A cavity 200 is disposed within the second portion of the cavity. The cavity 200 is defined by a polypropylene mesh tube 210 having an opening 220 extending through the housing 20 to allow for insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate into the cavity and removal of the aerosol-forming substrate. The openable cover 40 can be opened by a sliding action to expose the opening 220. The polypropylene mesh tube 210 forms a sidewall of the cavity. An air inlet defined through the housing allows air to enter the second portion of the housing. The sidewall of the cavity has a porosity of greater than 80%, effectively allowing unimpeded radial airflow into the cavity.

[0102] The upper portion of the tube 210 is surrounded by a first induction coil 250. The first induction coil 250 is coupled to the battery 110 via a controller and is configured to generate a varying electromagnetic field within the upper portion of the cavity 200.

[0103] The lower portion of the tube 210 is surrounded by a second induction coil 260. The first induction coil 250 is coupled to the battery 110 via the controller and is configured to generate a varying electromagnetic field within the lower portion of the cavity 200.

[0104] A hollow base 280 is disposed at the lower end of the cavity 200. The hollow base 280 is arranged to slide longitudinally within the tube 210. A lower portion of the hollow base is coupled to a push rod 290 that extends through a hole defined through the housing such that the hollow base can be manipulated by a user to move the hollow base within the cavity. The hollow base and the push rod form part of the extraction mechanism.

[0105] The arrangement of the electrical components of the aerosol generating device is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3. The battery 110 is a rechargeable battery that is coupled to a charging port 95 via electronics 126 to control charging of the battery. The charging port 95 may be any suitable charging port, for example, a USB charging port. The battery 110 powers and operates the first induction coil 250 and the second induction coil 260. Power from the battery 110 is provided to the first and second induction coils via a controller 125. The control electronics includes an inverter that converts DC current provided by the battery to AC current for supply to the first and second induction coils. The first and second induction coils may operate independently or together. The controller 125 controls the operation of the first and second induction coils in response to an actuation signal provided by the user button 30. The memory may store one or more predefined operating profiles that are implemented by the controller in response to a signal from the actuation button 30.

[0106] In use, the user exposes the opening 220 of the cavity 200 by sliding the cover 40 to its open position. An aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor is inserted into the cavity 200. The aerosol-generating article may be in the form of a fully disposable cylindrical aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor placed in thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may be in the form of a cylindrical reusable cartridge containing the disposable aerosol-forming substrate. The reusable cartridge may itself form the susceptor.

[0107] The aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity 200 such that the susceptor of the article is in a portion of the cavity that is subjected to the varying electromagnetic field when the device 10 is operated. A user activates the device 10 using the activation button 30. A controller controls power to the induction coil to generate the varying electromagnetic field. The susceptor is heated by the varying electromagnetic field, which in turn heats the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an inhalable aerosol. Power supplied to the induction coil is controlled to maintain the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate within a predetermined range. When the use session is over, power supply to the induction coil is turned off. The user may then remove the aerosol-generating article from the cavity.

[0108] The sidewalls of the cavity are formed from an air permeable tube 210 of polypropylene mesh. The tube may be formed by taking a sheet of polypropylene mesh, rolling the sheet into a tube, and fastening the contact ends of the sheet, for example, by using a welding process or by fastening by gluing. In other particular embodiments, the sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from a non-metallic metal mesh tube, or an air permeable ceramic tube. Metal tubes may be formed, for example, by rolling a sheet of metal mesh into a tube and fastening the contact ends, for example, by welding. Ceramic tubes may be formed by rolling a green ceramic mesh into a tube and firing to form an air permeable ceramic tube. FIG. 4 shows the mesh configuration formed into a tube to form the sidewalls of the cavity. Air permeable tubes may also be formed by a powder forming process, for example, by sintering a polymer, metal, or ceramic powder into an air permeable tube.

[0109] 5, 6 and 7 show the hollow base 280 and the extraction mechanism in greater detail.

[0110] 5 shows a hollow base 280 and an extraction mechanism positioned to receive an aerosol-generating article 300. The extraction base 280 is in the form of a plunger that is longitudinally slidable within an air permeable tube 210 that forms a sidewall of the cavity 200. The tube 210 is disposed by the housing 20. A spring 400 is disposed by the housing 20 and acts on a lower surface 281 of the hollow base 280 to bias the hollow base 280 toward the opening 220 of the cavity 200. The hollow base is biased against an internal ledge 211 that is defined internally by the cavity sidewall 210. The internal ledge 211 prevents the hollow base 280 from moving further toward the opening 220 and defines a receiving position for the hollow base. Push rod 290 is connected to a lower surface 281 of hollow base 280 and extends longitudinally from lower surface 281 through a hole in housing 20 sized to accommodate the cross section of push rod 290. When the hollow base is placed in the receiving position, the end of push rod 290 is flush with the outer surface of the housing.

[0111] When a user inserts the aerosol-generating article 300 into the cavity 200, the distal end of the article contacts the cavity base 280. By applying an insertion force (Fc), the distal end of the article pushes the cavity base into the cavity against the force of the spring 400. The elastic protrusion 500 extends into the lower part of the cavity (either positioned by the side wall of the cavity or by the housing adjacent the distal end of the side wall). When the cavity base is pushed towards the cavity base by the insertion force, the elastic protrusion deflects, allowing the cavity base to pass through. The elastic protrusion then regains its shape to latch the cavity base to the lower part of the cavity. The elastic protrusion holds the cavity base in this position against the force of the spring 400, which is compressed. When the cavity base 280 is latched by the resilient protrusion 500, the cavity base 280 is in its operative position and an aerosol-generating article disposed within the cavity is heated. When the cavity base 280 is in the operative position (shown in FIG. 6), the push rod 290 extends through an opening in the housing.

[0112] To withdraw the aerosol-generating article 300 after use, the user applies a withdrawal force (Fe) to the push rod 290. The withdrawal force must be sufficient to allow the hollow base 280 to deflect the resilient protrusion 500 and move longitudinally towards the opening 220 of the cavity 200. After the hollow base 280 passes the resilient protrusion 500, the spring 400 biases the hollow base back to the receiving position located by the internal ledge 211. The movement of the hollow base 280 back to the receiving position allows the aerosol-generating article to be removed by ejecting it from the opening 220.

[0113] Certain embodiments of the aerosol generating device are intended to operate with different types of consumables. By way of example, two different types of consumables are shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0114] FIG. 8 shows a disposable aerosol-generating article 700 disposed within the cavity of an aerosol-generating device. The disposable aerosol-generating article is formed of multiple elements assembled into a cigarette paper to form a rod having a distal end and a mouth end. One of the elements of the rod is a plug of aerosol-forming substrate 710, which may be an assembly of sheets of homogenized tobacco material. Strips of susceptor material 720 are disposed within the plug of aerosol-forming substrate to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. Once the device is operating and the susceptor is heated, a user may draw on the mouthpiece of the aerosol-forming article. Air flows through the air permeable sidewall 210 of the cavity into the distal end of the rod, through the aerosol-forming substrate, and into the user's mouth (arrows in FIG. 8 indicate the air flow). After use, the entire aerosol-generating article 700 may be discarded.

[0115] 9 shows a partially reusable aerosol-generating article 800 disposed within a cavity of an aerosol-generating device. The partially reusable aerosol-generating article 800 comprises a porous tubular cartridge 801 containing a first sachet of aerosol-forming substrate 810 and a second sachet of aerosol-forming substrate 820. The first and second sachets of aerosol-forming substrate are coaxially disposed within the tubular cartridge 801. The porous tubular cartridge 801 is formed from magnetic stainless steel and acts as a susceptor to heat the aerosol-forming substrate disposed therein.

[0116] In use, a user sucks on the aerosol-generating article 800 or on a mouthpiece contained in a mouthpiece that can be attached to the aerosol-generating device 10. Air flows radially into the porous tubular cartridge 801 through the hollow air-permeable side wall 210. Fresh air can thus flow into each of the first and second sachets of the aerosol-forming substrate. The air, and the aerosol generated by heating the substrate, is drawn into the user's mouth (arrows in FIG. 8 indicate airflow).

[0117] Figure 10 shows an embodiment of the aerosol generating device 10 with a removable mouthpiece 1000 mounted over the opening of the cavity. The removable mouthpiece may be removed to allow for the insertion and removal of an aerosol-generating article, such as the article 800 described with reference to Figure 9. The mouthpiece is preferably in the form of a tube formed from a polymer or paper material and is intended for a user to draw aerosol from the aerosol generating device during use. The removable mouthpiece 1000 may be dispensed when a user consumes an aerosol-generating article having its own integral mouthpiece, such as the aerosol-generating article 700 described with reference to Figure 8.

[0118] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like, should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A±10%. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include values ​​that are within the general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A may, in some instances used in the appended claims, deviate by the percentages recited above, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel properties of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: a cavity having an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate, the cavity being defined by a sidewall extending away from the opening; a hollow base for supporting the aerosol-forming substrate, or an aerosol-generating article including the aerosol-forming substrate, when received within the cavity, the hollow base being longitudinally movable within the sidewall defining the cavity; a push rod for the cavity base, the push rod protruding from a body of the aerosol generating device when an aerosol-forming substrate, or an aerosol-generating article comprising the aerosol-forming substrate, is positioned in the cavity; and at least one induction coil disposed outside the cavity and configured to generate a varying magnetic field during operation.

2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the sidewall of the cavity is formed from a non-susceptor or non-magnetic material.

3. 3. An aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the side walls of the cavity are permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air through the side walls into the cavity.

4. The aerosol generating device of claim 3, wherein the side wall has a major axis dimension extending away from the opening of the cavity, and 50% to 100% of the major axis dimension of the side wall is formed from a radially porous material.

5. 5. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein substantially all of the side wall is formed from a radially porous material.

6. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the hollow base is movable in the longitudinal direction between a first position and a second position, and in the first position the hollow base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position.

7. 7. The aerosol generating device of claim 6, wherein the device comprises a latch for releasably retaining the hollow base in the second position.

8. 7. The aerosol generating device of claim 6, wherein the device comprises a latch for releasably holding the hollow base in the first position.

9. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the first position is defined by a stop which acts to prevent the hollow base from moving further towards the opening of the cavity.

10. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the hollow base has a first surface facing the cavity opening and a second surface facing away from the cavity opening, the second surface being coupled or connected to a push rod, the push rod extending away from the second surface.

11. 11. An aerosol generating device according to any of claims 6 to 10, wherein the cavity base and the push rod form a manually actuable ejector for facilitating removal of the aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity.

12. 12. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the hollow base is biased by a biasing element.

13. 13. The aerosol generating device of claim 12, wherein the biasing element biases the cavity base in a direction toward the opening of the cavity.

14. 14. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the apparatus is configured to operate with a first type of aerosol-generating article and a second type of aerosol-generating article different from the first type of aerosol-generating article, the first type of aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a first susceptor arrangement for heating the aerosol-forming substrate, and the second type of aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a second susceptor arrangement for heating the aerosol-forming substrate.

15. 15. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device as defined in any one of claims 1 to 14 and an aerosol-generating article adapted to be received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol-generating article comprising:

1. An aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate; and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate when coupled with a varying magnetic field generated by the induction coil of the aerosol generating device.

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