Aerosol generating device having movable housing portion

Abstract

An aerosol generating device (10) is provided that includes a first housing portion (12) defining a cavity (16) for receiving an aerosol-generating article (50; 150; 250) and a second housing portion (14) extending from the first housing portion (12). The second housing portion (14) is movable relative to the first housing portion (12). An electric heater (26) is positioned within the first housing portion (12), and at least one of a power source (30) and a controller (28) is positioned within the second housing portion (14). Also provided is an aerosol-generating article (50; 150) that includes a first mouthpiece element (52) positioned at a first end (54) of the aerosol-generating article (50; 150) and a second mouthpiece element (56) positioned at a second end (58) of the aerosol-generating article (50; 150). The aerosol-generating article (50; 150) also includes at least one aerosol-forming substrate (60; 160, 161) positioned between the first mouthpiece element (52) and the second mouthpiece element (56). The first and second susceptor elements (66, 68) are positioned within the at least one aerosol-forming substrate (60; 160, 161) and are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article (50; 150). Also provided is an aerosol-generating article (50; 150) including the at least one aerosol-forming substrate (60; 160, 161), the at least one mouthpiece element (52, 56), and a wrapper (72) wrapped around the at least one aerosol-forming substrate (60; 160, 161) and the at least one mouthpiece element (52, 56). The aerosol-generating article (50; 150) also includes a plurality of indicia (74, 76, 78) on an exterior surface of the wrapper (72). The aerosol-generating article (50; 150) includes a first end (54), a second end (58), and a longitudinal direction (70) extending between the first end (54) and the second end (58). The plurality of indicia (74, 76, 78) are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal direction (70).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device including a first housing portion and a second housing portion movable relative to the first housing portion. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating article including a first mouthpiece element at a first end of the aerosol generating article and a second mouthpiece element at a second end of the aerosol generating article. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating article including a wrapper and a plurality of spaced apart indicia on an exterior surface of the wrapper. [Background technology]

[0002] A number of electrically operated aerosol generating systems have been proposed in the art in which an aerosol generating device having an electric heater is used to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco plug. The aerosol-generating substrate may be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article that is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0003] Typically, an aerosol generating device comprises a housing defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article. The housing may have a shape that seeks to provide an ergonomic benefit to the user, but typically the size and shape of the housing is dictated by the need to accommodate the cavity, an electric heater, a power source, and control electronics. Thus, known aerosol generating devices often have sizes and shapes that provide only limited ergonomic benefits to the user. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that can provide improved ergonomic benefits to the user.

[0005] Aerosol-generating articles typically include an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco plug, and a mouthpiece downstream of the tobacco plug. The mouthpiece typically includes a filter element. Such aerosol-generating articles may provide users with limited options to customize their user experience. Thus, some users may attempt to use the aerosol-generating article in a manner not intended by the manufacturer. For example, a user may attempt to use the aerosol-generating article to heat only a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate without fully inserting the aerosol-generating article into an aerosol-generating device. However, as a result, a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate is not heated and is therefore wasted. Furthermore, using the aerosol-generating article in such a manner may reduce the consistency of the user experience from one user experience to the next. Other users may remove a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate by cutting the aerosol-generating article before inserting it into an aerosol-generating device. This may result in the additional problem of reduced withdrawal resistance, which may also negatively impact the user experience.

[0006] It is desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that can facilitate customization of the user experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a first housing portion. The first housing portion may define a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating device may comprise a second housing portion. The second housing portion may extend from the first housing portion. The second housing portion may be movable relative to the first housing portion. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2]1 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 3 shows a side view of the aerosol-generating article of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 4 shows various configurations of an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. 2 and 3. [Diagram 5] 4 shows various configurations of an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. 2 and 3. [Figure 6] 4 shows various configurations of an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. 2 and 3. [Figure 7] 4 shows various configurations of an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. 2 and 3. [Figure 8] 4 shows various configurations of an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. 2 and 3. [Figure 9] 4 shows various configurations of an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. 2 and 3. [Figure 10] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 11 shows a side view of the aerosol-generating article of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 13 shows a side view of the aerosol-generating article of FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 12 and 13 show various configurations of an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. [Figure 15] 12 and 13 show various configurations of an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. [Figure 16]12 and 13 show various configurations of an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and the aerosol generating articles of FIGS. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a first housing portion defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article, and a second housing portion extending from the first housing portion, the second housing portion being movable relative to the first housing portion.

[0010] Advantageously, providing a second housing part that is movable relative to the first housing part can provide an aerosol generating device having at least one of a variable size and shape. Advantageously, moving the second housing part relative to the first housing part can allow a user to position the second housing part in a manner that improves or optimizes the user's comfort when holding the aerosol generating device. Different users may have different preferred positions of the second housing part relative to the first housing part. Advantageously, a movable second housing part can accommodate different user preferences.

[0011] The second housing portion may be rotatable about the first housing portion. Advantageously, a rotatable second housing portion may facilitate movement of the second housing portion through a range of typically preferred positions of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion.

[0012] The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one shaft portion, the second housing portion being movably connected to the first housing portion by the at least one shaft portion.

[0013] The at least one shaft portion may be integrally formed with the first housing portion. The at least one shaft portion may be formed separately from and secured to the first housing portion. The second housing portion may comprise at least one bearing portion, and the at least one shaft portion is rotatably received within the at least one bearing portion. The at least one bearing portion may comprise at least one opening in the second housing portion, and the at least one shaft portion is rotatably received within the at least one opening.

[0014] The at least one shaft portion may be integrally formed with the second housing portion. The at least one shaft portion may be formed separately from and secured to the second housing portion. The first housing portion may comprise at least one bearing portion, and the at least one shaft portion is rotatably received within the at least one bearing portion. The at least one bearing portion may comprise at least one opening in the first housing portion, and the at least one shaft portion is rotatably received within the at least one opening.

[0015] The second housing portion may be movably connected to the first housing portion by a ball and socket joint. At least a portion of the first housing portion may include a first curved surface. The first curved surface may form a ball portion of the ball and socket joint. At least a portion of the second housing portion may include a second curved surface. The second curved surface may form a socket portion of the ball and socket joint.

[0016] Preferably, the cavity includes a first cavity end and a second cavity end opposite the first cavity end, the cavity defining a first direction extending between the first cavity end and the second cavity end.

[0017] The first housing portion may define a first opening at the first cavity end and a second opening at the second cavity end, in other words, the cavity may be a through cavity and the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity at the first cavity end or the second cavity end.

[0018] Advantageously, providing a through cavity may facilitate removal of the aerosol-generating article from the cavity. For example, a user may push an end of the aerosol-generating article such that the aerosol-generating article is pushed out of the cavity at the opposite end. Advantageously, removing the aerosol-generating article by pushing the aerosol-generating article through the cavity instead of pulling it out of the cavity may reduce or minimise the risk that part of the aerosol-forming substrate remains in the cavity.

[0019] Advantageously, providing a through cavity may facilitate use of an aerosol generating device with an aerosol-generating article having a length that is longer than the length of the cavity, for example, during use, the aerosol-generating article may protrude from the cavity at the first cavity end, the second cavity end, or from both the first cavity end and the second cavity end.

[0020] Advantageously, providing a through cavity may facilitate cleaning of the cavity: for example, a brush or other cleaning tool may be forced throughout the cavity, which may facilitate removal of debris and other contaminants from the cavity.

[0021] Advantageously, providing a through cavity may facilitate a single airflow path through the aerosol-generating device during use. In particular, air may flow directly through the aerosol-generating article received within the cavity, without the need for a dedicated airflow inlet or outlet in the aerosol-generating device.

[0022] Preferably, the cavity has a circular cross-sectional shape. Advantageously, the circular cross-sectional shape facilitates use of an aerosol generating device with an aerosol-generating article having a circular cross-sectional shape. Advantageously, the circular cross-sectional shape may allow a user to insert the aerosol-generating article into the cavity in any rotational orientation.

[0023] In embodiments in which the first housing portion defines a first opening and a second opening, it is preferred that the inner diameter of the first opening is the same as the inner diameter of the second opening.

[0024] The aerosol generating device may include a first closure member positioned to selectively block at least a portion of the first opening.

[0025] The first closure member may be configured to engage the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity. Advantageously, the first closure member may retain the aerosol-generating article within the cavity.

[0026] The first closure member may be arranged to selectively block substantially all of the first opening. Advantageously, the first closure member may selectively provide a surface against which the aerosol-generating article is received when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity through the second opening. Advantageously, the first closure member may facilitate correct positioning of the aerosol-generating article within the cavity.

[0027] The first closure member may be arranged to slide relative to the first housing portion.The first closure member may be arranged to rotate relative to the first housing portion.

[0028] The first closure member may be movable between an open position in which the first opening is unobstructed and a closed position in which the first closure member at least partially obstructs the first opening. In embodiments in which the first closure member is arranged to selectively obstruct substantially all of the first opening, preferably the first closure member obstructs substantially all of the first opening when the first closure member is in the closed position.

[0029] The aerosol generating device may include a first biasing member arranged to bias the first closure member towards the closed position. The first biasing member may include a spring.

[0030] The aerosol generating device may comprise a first detent configured to engage the first closure member to retain the first closure member in the closed position.

[0031] The aerosol generating device may include a second closure member positioned to selectively block at least a portion of the second opening.

[0032] The second closure member may be configured to engage the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity. Advantageously, the second closure member may retain the aerosol-generating article within the cavity.

[0033] The second closure member may be arranged to selectively block substantially all of the second opening. Advantageously, the second closure member may selectively provide a surface against which the aerosol-generating article is received when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity through the first opening. Advantageously, the second closure member may facilitate correct positioning of the aerosol-generating article within the cavity.

[0034] The second closure member may be arranged to slide relative to the first housing portion.The second closure member may be arranged to rotate relative to the first housing portion.

[0035] The second closure member may be movable between an open position in which the second opening is unobstructed and a closed position in which the second closure member at least partially obstructs the second opening. In embodiments in which the second closure member is arranged to selectively obstruct substantially all of the second opening, it is preferred that the second closure member obstructs substantially all of the second opening when the second closure member is in the closed position.

[0036] The aerosol generating device may comprise a second biasing member arranged to bias the second closure member towards the closed position. The second biasing member may comprise a spring.

[0037] The aerosol generating device may include a second detent configured to engage the second closure member to retain the second closure member in the closed position.

[0038] Preferably, the second housing portion has an elongated shape and includes a first housing end coupled to the first housing portion for movement relative to the first housing portion, and a second housing end opposite the first housing end.

[0039] The term "elongated" is used herein to refer to a shape having a length and a width perpendicular to the length, where the ratio of length to width is at least 1.5 to 1.

[0040] Advantageously, the elongated second housing portion may facilitate use of the second housing portion as a handle by a user, in other words, a user may hold the aerosol generation device by the second housing portion during use of the aerosol generation device.

[0041] The second housing portion may define a second direction extending between the first and second housing ends, and the second housing portion is movable relative to the first housing portion to a position where the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. Advantageously, a position where the second direction defined by the second housing portion is perpendicular to the first direction defined by the cavity may facilitate use of the second housing portion as a handle.

[0042] Preferably, the second housing portion is rotatable relative to the first housing portion through a range of angles between the first and second orientations. Preferably, the range of angles includes an angle of 90 degrees between the first and second orientations. The second housing portion may be rotatable relative to the first housing portion from a first position to a second position. The angle between the first and second orientations in the first position may be 45 degrees. The same angle between the first and second orientations in the second position may be 135 degrees.

[0043] The aerosol generating device may include at least one indicia on at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion, the at least one indicia positioned to indicate a position of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion.

[0044] The aerosol generating device may comprise a locking mechanism configured to selectively prevent movement of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion. Advantageously, the locking mechanism may prevent undesired movement of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion during use of the aerosol generating device.

[0045] The locking mechanism may include a ratchet mechanism. Advantageously, the ratchet mechanism may facilitate movement of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion to one or more predetermined positions.

[0046] Preferably, the aerosol generating device comprises an electric heater, a power supply and a controller configured to supply power from the power supply to the electric heater. Advantageously, in use, the electric heater may heat an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article received within the cavity.

[0047] The electric heater is preferably located within the first housing portion.

[0048] Advantageously, positioning an electric heater within the first housing portion may facilitate heating of an aerosol-generating article received within the cavity defined by the first housing portion.

[0049] Advantageously, locating the electric heater within the first housing portion may reduce or minimize heating of the second housing portion during use of the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, reducing or minimizing heating of the second housing portion may improve user comfort when the user holds the aerosol generating device by the second housing portion during use.

[0050] Preferably, the electric heater extends around at least a portion of the cavity such that when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article is received within the electric heater. In an arrangement in which the aerosol-generating article is received within the electric heater, the electric heater may be referred to as an "external heater". An external heater may be particularly advantageous in embodiments in which the cavity is a through cavity.

[0051] Preferably, at least one of the power supply and the controller is located within the second housing portion. Preferably, both the power supply and the controller are located within the second housing portion.

[0052] Advantageously, locating the power supply and controller within the second housing portion may reduce or minimize the transfer of heat from the electric heater to the power supply and controller during use of the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, reducing or minimizing heating of the power supply and controller may reduce, minimize, or prevent thermal damage to the power supply and controller.

[0053] Advantageously, locating the power source and controller within the second housing portion may locate the centre of mass of the aerosol generating device within the second housing portion. Advantageously, locating the centre of mass of the aerosol generating device within the second housing portion may promote comfort for a user when the user holds the aerosol generating device by the second housing portion during use.

[0054] The electric heater may comprise an induction heating element. In use, the induction heating element inductively heats the susceptor material to heat the aerosol-generating article received within the cavity. The susceptor material may form part of the aerosol-generating device. The susceptor material may form part of the aerosol-generating article. The induction heating element may comprise at least one inductor coil extending around at least a portion of the cavity such that when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article is received within the inductor coil.

[0055] The electric heater may comprise a resistive heating element. In use, an electric current is supplied to the resistive heating element to generate heat by resistive heating. The resistive heating element may comprise a foil heater. The foil heater is preferably wrapped around at least a portion of the cavity such that when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article is received within the foil heater. The foil heater may be an etched foil heater. The foil heater may be a tubular foil heater.

[0056] The power source may be a DC voltage source. The power source is preferably a battery. The power source may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or a lithium based battery. Suitable lithium batteries may include lithium cobalt batteries, lithium iron phosphate batteries, and lithium polymer batteries. The power source may comprise another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging. The power source may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy to use the aerosol generating device with one or more aerosol generating articles.

[0057] Each of the first and second housing portions may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is light and not brittle.

[0058] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol-generating article comprising at least one aerosol-forming substrate according to any of the embodiments described herein, and an aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure.

[0059] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, releases a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol.

[0060] The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one mouthpiece element. The at least one mouthpiece element may be adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate. The at least one mouthpiece element may be spaced apart from the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one additional element positioned between the aerosol-forming substrate and the at least one mouthpiece element. The at least one additional element may comprise an aerosol cooling element.

[0061] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a wrapper. Preferably, the wrapper is wrapped around the aerosol-forming substrate and, if present, at least one mouthpiece element and at least one additional element.

[0062] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first mouthpiece element. The first mouthpiece element may be located at a first end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a second mouthpiece element. The second mouthpiece element may be located at a second end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one aerosol-forming substrate. The at least one aerosol-forming substrate may be located between the first mouthpiece element and the second mouthpiece element.

[0063] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article comprising a first mouthpiece element positioned at a first end of the aerosol-generating article and a second mouthpiece element positioned at a second end of the aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article also comprising at least one aerosol-forming substrate positioned between the first and second mouthpiece elements.

[0064] Advantageously, providing first and second mouthpiece elements at first and second ends of the aerosol-generating article can facilitate using both ends of the aerosol-generating article as "mouth ends" that are received in a user's mouth during use.

[0065] Advantageously, providing an aerosol-generating article with two mouth ends may enable a user to insert the aerosol-generating article into an aerosol generating device in different orientations.

[0066] Advantageously, an aerosol-generating article having two oral ends may be particularly suitable for an aerosol generating device that includes a through cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article. In such an arrangement, the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the through cavity with a first oral end of the aerosol-generating article protruding from a first end of the through cavity and a second end of the aerosol-generating article protruding from a second end of the through cavity.

[0067] Advantageously, providing an aerosol-generating article with two mouth ends may facilitate heating a first portion of the at least one aerosol-forming substrate and drawing the generated aerosol through a first mouthpiece element, and thereafter heating a second portion of the at least one aerosol-forming substrate and drawing the generated aerosol through a second mouthpiece element. In other words, providing an aerosol-generating article with two mouth ends may facilitate two user experiences with a single aerosol-generating article.

[0068] The at least one aerosol-forming substrate may be a single aerosol-forming substrate positioned between the first mouthpiece element and the second mouthpiece element.

[0069] The aerosol-generating article may include a first susceptor element positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate and a second susceptor element positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, positioning the first and second susceptor elements within the aerosol-forming substrate may facilitate separate inductive heating of first and second portions of the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into an aerosol generating device such that only one of the first and second susceptor elements is positioned within the inductor coil. Advantageously, this may facilitate heating of different portions of the aerosol-forming substrate during different user experiences.

[0070] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article defines a longitudinal direction extending between the first and second ends, and the first and second susceptor elements are longitudinally spaced apart from one another.

[0071] The at least one aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a first aerosol-forming substrate and a second aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, providing the first and second aerosol-forming substrates separately may allow heating of the first aerosol-forming substrate during a first user experience, and heating of the second aerosol-forming substrate during a second user experience.

[0072] The first aerosol-forming substrate may be located between the first mouthpiece element and the second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-forming substrate may abut the second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be spaced apart from the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0073] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article defines a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end. The first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may be spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction.

[0074] The aerosol-generating article may include a first susceptor element positioned within the first aerosol-forming substrate and a second susceptor element positioned within the second aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, providing the first susceptor element within the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second susceptor element within the second aerosol-forming substrate may facilitate separate inductive heating of the first and second aerosol-forming substrates. For example, the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into an aerosol-generating device such that only one of the first and second aerosol-forming substrates is positioned within the inductor coil. Advantageously, this may facilitate respective heating of the aerosol-forming substrates during different user experiences.

[0075] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one mouthpiece element. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a wrapper. The wrapper may be wrapped around the at least one aerosol-forming substrate and the at least one mouthpiece element. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of indicia on an outer surface of the wrapper. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end. The plurality of indicia may be spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction.

[0076] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article comprising at least one aerosol-forming substrate, at least one mouthpiece element, and a wrapper wound around the at least one aerosol-forming substrate and the at least one mouthpiece element. The aerosol-generating article also comprises a plurality of indicia on an outer surface of the wrapper. The aerosol-generating article comprises a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end. The plurality of indicia are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal direction.

[0077] Advantageously, the plurality of spaced apart indicia may provide a user with a visual indication of how far the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. For example, a user may insert the aerosol-generating article into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device until a selected indicia aligns with a portion of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. This may be particularly advantageous in an arrangement in which the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the aerosol-generating device in a plurality of different positions or orientations to facilitate selective heating of portions of a single aerosol-forming substrate rather than selective heating of separate aerosol-forming substrates.

[0078] The plurality of markings may include any suitable number of markings, for example, the plurality of markings may include two, three, four, five, or six markings.

[0079] Preferably, each of the indicia circumscribes a portion of the wrapper. Advantageously, providing indicia that circumscribes a portion of the wrapper may facilitate visibility of each indicia regardless of the rotational orientation of the aerosol-generating article.

[0080] The indicia may be substantially identical to one another.

[0081] At least two of the indicia preferably include at least one of different sizes, different shapes, different colors, and different motifs. Each of the indicia preferably includes at least one of different sizes, different shapes, different colors, and different motifs. Advantageously, providing the indicia with at least one of different sizes, different shapes, different colors, and different motifs may help a user to distinguish between different indicia.

[0082] The longitudinal spacing between adjacent markings may be between 5 millimeters and 10 millimeters.

[0083] The aerosol-generating article may also be an aerosol-generating article according to any of the other aspects of the present disclosure, according to any of the embodiments described herein, in other words, the aerosol-generating article may include any combination of features from one or more other aspects of the present disclosure.

[0084] Each of the aerosol-forming substrates described herein may comprise a tobacco plug. The tobacco plug may comprise one or more of powders, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti, strips, or sheets containing one or more of tobacco leaves, tobacco stem fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, and expanded tobacco. Optionally, the tobacco plug may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating of the tobacco plug. Optionally, the tobacco plug may also include a capsule, for example, containing additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds. Such capsules may melt during heating of the tobacco plug. Alternatively, or in addition, such capsules may be crushed before, during, or after heating of the tobacco plug. Optionally, the tobacco plug may include one or more botanical ingredients.

[0085] When the tobacco plug includes homogenized tobacco material, the homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. The homogenized tobacco material may be in the form of a sheet. The homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol former content of greater than 5 percent on a dry weight basis. Alternatively, the homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol former content of 5 to 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The homogenized tobacco material sheet may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco obtained by grinding or otherwise comminuted one or both of tobacco lamina and tobacco stems, and alternatively, or additionally, the homogenized tobacco material sheet may include one or more of tobacco dust, tobacco fines and other particulate tobacco by-products formed, for example, during tobacco processing, handling and transportation. The homogenized tobacco material sheet may include one or more intrinsic binders (i.e., tobacco intrinsic binders), or one or more extrinsic binders (i.e., tobacco extrinsic binders), or a combination thereof, to assist in agglomerating the particulate tobacco. Alternatively, or in addition, the homogenized tobacco material sheet may include other additives, including, but not limited to, tobacco and non-tobacco fibers, aerosol formers, humectants, plasticizers, flavorants, fillers, aqueous and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof. The homogenized tobacco material sheet is preferably formed by a casting process of a type that generally involves casting a slurry including particulate tobacco and one or more binders onto a conveyor belt or other support surface, drying the cast slurry to form a sheet of homogenized tobacco material, and removing the homogenized tobacco material sheet from the support surface.

[0086] Each tobacco plug may have a length between 10 mm and 18 mm. Each tobacco plug may have a length between 12 mm and 16 mm.

[0087] Each tobacco plug may have a diameter of between 5 millimeters and 12 millimeters.

[0088] Each mouthpiece element described herein may comprise a filter element. Each filter element may comprise any suitable material. Suitable materials for each filter element may include at least one of acetate tow, paper, lyocell, viscose, biodegradable fibers, polylactic acid (PLA), and one or more polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). Each filter element may include a cellulose acetate filter plug. Each mouthpiece element may have a length of 5 millimeters to 10 millimeters.

[0089] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol-generating article according to any of the aspects of the present disclosure, and also comprising an aerosol generating device comprising a housing defining a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article, an electric heater, a power source, and a controller configured to provide power from the power source to the electric heater.

[0090] The aerosol generating device may comprise any of the features described herein with respect to other aspects of the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device may be an aerosol generating device according to other aspects of the present disclosure. The housing of the aerosol generating device may include a first housing portion and a second housing portion according to other aspects of the present disclosure.

[0091] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article, the cavity having a first end and a second end. The aerosol generating device also includes at least one first opening at the first end of the cavity and at least one second opening at the second end of the cavity. The at least one first opening and the at least one second opening are the only openings in fluid communication with the cavity.

[0092] Advantageously, providing only the first and second openings in fluid communication with the cavity may define a single airflow path through the cavity between the first end and the second end. Advantageously, the single airflow path through the cavity may be the only airflow path through the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, the single airflow path may provide the aerosol generating device with a simple design that may reduce or minimize manufacturing complexity.

[0093] The at least one first opening may be a single first opening at a first end of the cavity. The aerosol generating device may be arranged such that an aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity through the first opening. For example, the first opening may be sized to receive the aerosol-generating article.

[0094] The at least one first opening is preferably located on an outer surface of the aerosol generating device.

[0095] The at least one second opening may be a single second opening at a second end of the cavity. The aerosol generating device may be arranged such that an aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity through the second opening. For example, the second opening may be sized to receive the aerosol-generating article.

[0096] Preferably, the at least one second opening is located on an outer surface of the aerosol generating device.

[0097] The aerosol generating device may be arranged such that an aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity through each of the first and second openings. For example, each of the first and second openings may be sized to receive an aerosol-generating article. The first opening may be the same size as the second opening.

[0098] The aerosol generating device may comprise any of the features described herein with respect to other aspects of the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device may be an aerosol generating device according to other aspects of the present disclosure. EXAMPLES

[0099] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0100] Example 1: An aerosol generating device, comprising: a first housing portion defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article; a second housing portion extending from the first housing portion, the second housing portion being movable relative to the first housing portion. Example 2: 2. The aerosol generating device of example 1, wherein the second housing portion is rotatable about the first housing portion. Example 3: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 1 or 2, wherein the cavity has a first cavity end and a second cavity end opposite the first cavity end, and the cavity defines a first direction extending between the first cavity end and the second cavity end. Example 4: 4. The aerosol generating device of example 3, wherein the first housing portion defines a first opening at a first cavity end and a second opening at a second cavity end. Example 5: 5. The aerosol generating device of example 4, wherein the cavity has a circular cross-sectional shape and the inner diameter of the first opening is the same as the inner diameter of the second opening. Example 6: 6. The aerosol generating device of example 4 or 5, further comprising a first closing member arranged to selectively block at least a portion of the first opening. Example 7: 7. The aerosol generating device of example 6, further comprising a second closure member arranged to selectively block at least a portion of the second opening. Example 8: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 3 to 7, wherein the second housing portion has an elongated shape and comprises a first housing end connected to the first housing portion for movement relative to the first housing portion, and a second housing end opposite the first housing end. Example 9: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 5, wherein the second housing portion defines a second direction extending between the first housing end and the second housing end, and the second housing portion is movable relative to the first housing portion to a position where the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. Example 10: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 9, further comprising at least one marking on at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part, the at least one marking being positioned to indicate the position of the second housing part relative to the first housing part. Example 11: An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 1-10, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to selectively prevent movement of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion. Example 12: An electric heater, Power supply, 12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, further comprising: a controller configured to supply power from the power source to the electric heater. Example 13: 13. The aerosol generating device of Example 12, wherein the electric heater is positioned within the first housing portion and at least one of the power source and the controller is positioned within the second housing portion. Example 14: 14. The aerosol generating device of example 13, wherein both the power source and the controller are located within the second housing portion. Example 15: 15. An aerosol generating device as described in Examples 12, 13, or 14, wherein the electric heater extends around at least a portion of the cavity such that when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, the aerosol-generating article is received within the electric heater. Example 16: 1. An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol-generating article comprising at least one aerosol-forming substrate; An aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 15. Example 17: 1. An aerosol-generating article comprising: a first mouthpiece element positioned at a first end of the aerosol-generating article; a second mouthpiece element positioned at a second end of the aerosol-generating article; and at least one aerosol-forming substrate positioned between a first mouthpiece element and a second mouthpiece element. Example 18: 18. The aerosol-generating article of example 17, wherein the at least one aerosol-forming substrate is a single aerosol-forming substrate positioned between the first mouthpiece element and the second mouthpiece element. Example 19: a first susceptor element positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate; The aerosol-generating article of Example 18, further comprising a second susceptor element positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating article defines a longitudinal direction extending between a first end and a second end, and the first susceptor element and the second susceptor element are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. Example 20: The aerosol-generating article of example 17, wherein the at least one aerosol-forming substrate comprises a first aerosol-forming substrate and a second aerosol-forming substrate. Example 21: The aerosol-generating article of Example 20, wherein the aerosol-generating article defines a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end, and the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction. Example 22: a first susceptor element positioned within the first aerosol-forming substrate; 22. The aerosol-generating article of example 20 or 21, further comprising a second susceptor element positioned within the second aerosol-forming substrate. Example 23: a wrapper wrapped around the first mouthpiece element, the second mouthpiece element, and the at least one aerosol-forming substrate; An aerosol-generating article as described in any of Examples 17 to 22, further comprising a plurality of markings on an outer surface of the wrapper, wherein the aerosol-generating article defines a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end, the plurality of markings being spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction. Example 24: 1. An aerosol-generating article comprising: at least one aerosol-forming substrate; At least one mouthpiece element; a wrapper wrapped around the at least one aerosol-forming substrate and the at least one mouthpiece element; a plurality of indicia on an exterior surface of the wrapper; an aerosol-generating article having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end; An aerosol-generating article, wherein the indicia are longitudinally spaced apart from one another. Example 25: 25. The aerosol-generating article of example 23 or 24, wherein each of the indicia circumscribes a portion of the wrapper. Example 26: 26. The aerosol-generating article of example 23, 24, or 25, wherein each of the indicia comprises at least one of different sizes, different shapes, different colors, and different motifs. Example 27: 27. An aerosol-generating article as described in any one of Examples 23 to 26, wherein the longitudinal spacing between adjacent markings is between 5 millimeters and 10 millimeters. Example 28: 1. An aerosol generation system comprising: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 17 to 27, An aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article; Electric heater, Power supply, and An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generating device comprising a controller configured to provide power from a power source to an electric heater. Example 29: An aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 15 and the aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 17 to 27. Example 30: An aerosol generating device, comprising: a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article, the cavity including a first end and a second end; at least one first opening at a first end of the cavity and at least one second opening at a second end of the cavity, the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening being the only openings in fluid communication with the cavity; The aerosol generating device is positioned such that when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity, the aerosol-generating article can extend between a first end and a second end of the cavity. Example 31: 31. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 30, wherein the at least one first opening is a single first opening at a first end of the cavity. Example 32: 32. The aerosol generating device of example 31, wherein the aerosol-generating article can be inserted into the cavity through the first opening. Example 33: 33. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 30, 31, or 32, wherein the at least one second opening is a single second opening at the second end of the cavity. Example 34: 34. An aerosol generating device as described in example 33, wherein the aerosol-generating article can be inserted into the cavity through the second opening. Example 35: An aerosol generating device according to Example 33 or 34 when dependent on Example 31 or 32, wherein the first opening is the same size as the second opening.

[0101] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0102] FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generation device 10 comprises a first housing portion 12 and a second housing portion 14 extending from the first housing portion 12. As illustrated by comparing FIGS. 1 and 4, the second housing portion 14 is connected to the first housing portion 12 such that the second housing portion 14 can be rotated relative to the first housing portion 12. During use of the aerosol generation device 10, a user may use the second housing portion 14 as a handle to hold the aerosol generation device 10. Thus, a user may rotate the second housing portion 14 to an ergonomically comfortable position.

[0103] The first housing portion 12 defines a cavity 16 for receiving an aerosol-generating article. The first housing portion 12 also defines a first opening 18 at a first end of the cavity 16 and a second opening 20 at a second end of the cavity 16. The first and second openings 18, 20 are sized such that an aerosol-generating article can be inserted into the cavity 16 through the first opening 18 or the second opening 20.

[0104] The aerosol generating device 10 also includes a first closure member 22 slidably mounted on the first housing portion 12 and biased toward a closed position, shown in Figure 1, in which the first closure member 22 covers the first opening 18. The first closure member 22 may be moved to an open position, shown in Figure 4, in which the first opening 18 is unobstructed.

[0105] The aerosol generating device 10 also includes a second closure member 24 slidably mounted on the first housing portion 12 and biased toward a closed position, shown in Figure 1, in which the second closure member 24 covers the second opening 20. The second closure member 24 may be moved to an open position, shown in Figure 4, in which the second opening 20 is unobstructed.

[0106] An electric heater 26 is positioned within the first housing portion 12 and includes an inductor coil that extends around a central portion of the cavity 16. A controller 28 and a power source 30 comprising a battery are positioned within the second housing portion 14. The controller 28 is configured to provide power from the power source 30 to the inductor coil to inductively heat an aerosol-generating article received within the cavity 16.

[0107] 2 and 3 show an aerosol-generating article 50 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol-generating article 50 includes a first mouthpiece element 52 at a first end 54 of the aerosol-generating article 50 and a second mouthpiece element 56 at a second end 58 of the aerosol-generating article 50. Each of the first and second mouthpiece elements 52, 56 is a filter element. An aerosol-forming substrate 60 including a tobacco plug is positioned at the center of the aerosol-generating article 50 between the first mouthpiece element 52 and the second mouthpiece element 56. An optional first aerosol cooling element 62 is positioned between the first mouthpiece element 52 and the aerosol-forming substrate 60. An optional second aerosol cooling element 64 is positioned between the second mouthpiece element 56 and the aerosol-forming substrate 60.

[0108] The aerosol-generating article 50 also includes a first susceptor element 66 positioned within a first portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 60 and a second susceptor element 68 positioned within a second portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 60. The first and second susceptor elements 66, 68 are spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal axis 70 of the aerosol-generating article 50.

[0109] The wrapper 72 is wrapped around the first and second mouthpiece elements 52, 56, the aerosol-forming substrate 60, and the first and second aerosol cooling elements 62, 64. A plurality of indicia is provided on the outer surface of the wrapper 72, the plurality of indicia including a first indicia 74, a second indicia 76, and a third indicia 78 spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction 70. Each indicia includes a printed line extending around the wrapper 72. In the illustrated embodiment, each indicia includes a different printed line to assist a user in distinguishing between the different indicia. However, it will be understood that the indicia may be substantially identical to one another. For example, the first, second, and third indicia 74, 76, 78 may include three identical printed lines spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction 70.

[0110] Figures 4-9 show an aerosol generation system 100 comprising the aerosol generating device 10 of Figure 1 and the aerosol-generating article 50 of Figures 2 and 3. The first and second closure members 22, 24 have been moved to their open positions to allow insertion of the aerosol-generating article 50 into the cavity 16 defined by the first housing portion 12. Advantageously, biasing the first and second closure members 22, 24 to their closed positions biases the first and second closure members 22, 24 against the aerosol-generating article 50, retaining the aerosol-generating article 50 within the cavity 16.

[0111] Advantageously, the first and second mouthpiece elements 52, 56, the first, second and third indicia 74, 76, 78, and the first and second susceptor elements 66, 68 facilitate use of the aerosol generating article 50 with the aerosol generating device 10 in a number of different configurations.

[0112] 4 and 5, the user inserts the aerosol-generating article 50 into the cavity 16 until the first indicia 74 aligns with the edge of the first housing portion 12. In this configuration, the entire aerosol-forming substrate 60 and both the first and second susceptor elements 66, 68 are positioned within the inductor coil. Thus, in the first configuration, the electric heater 26 heats the entire aerosol-forming substrate 60, and the user may inhale the generated aerosol through either the first mouthpiece element 52 or the second mouthpiece element 56.

[0113] 6 and 7, the user inserts the aerosol-generating article 50 into the cavity 16 until the second indicia 76 is aligned with the edge of the first housing portion 12. In this configuration, only the first portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 60 and the first susceptor element 66 are positioned within the inductor coil. Thus, in the second configuration, the electric heater 26 heats only the first portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 60, and the user may inhale the generated aerosol through the first mouthpiece element 52.

[0114] 8 and 9, the user inserts the aerosol-generating article 50 into the cavity 16 until the third indicia 78 is aligned with the edge of the first housing portion 12. In this configuration, only the second portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 60 and the second susceptor element 68 are positioned within the inductor coil. Thus, in the third configuration, the electric heater 26 heats only the second portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 60, and the user may inhale the generated aerosol through the second mouthpiece element 56.

[0115] In the second and third configurations, the user can use the aerosol-generating article 50 for two user experiences, but each experience uses only half of the aerosol-forming substrate 60. The user may use the second configuration followed by the third configuration. Alternatively, the user may use the third configuration followed by the second configuration.

[0116] Figures 10-11 show an alternative aerosol-generating article 150 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol-generating article 150 is substantially similar to the aerosol-generating article 50 shown in Figures 2 and 3, and like reference numerals have been used to indicate like parts.

[0117] The aerosol-generating article 150 differs from the aerosol-generating article 50 by the arrangement of the aerosol-forming substrates. In particular, the aerosol-generating article 150 includes a first aerosol-forming substrate 160 including a first tobacco plug on which a first susceptor element 66 is positioned, and a second aerosol-forming substrate 161 including a second tobacco plug on which a second susceptor element 68 is positioned. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the separate first and second aerosol-forming substrates 160, 161 correspond to the first and second portions of the single aerosol-forming substrate 60 of the aerosol-generating article 50. Thus, the aerosol-generating article 150, like the aerosol-generating article 50, can be used with the aerosol generating device 10.

[0118] 12 and 13 show an aerosol-generating article 250 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol-generating article 250 includes a mouthpiece element 52 at a first end 54 of the aerosol-generating article 250. The mouthpiece element 52 is a filter element. The first end 54 forms the mouth or downstream end of the aerosol-generating article 250. An optional porous element 256 is positioned at a second end 58 of the aerosol-generating article 250. The second end 58 forms the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article 250. An aerosol-forming substrate 60 including a tobacco plug is positioned between the mouthpiece element 52 and the porous element 256. An optional aerosol-cooling element 62 is positioned between the mouthpiece element 52 and the aerosol-forming substrate 60. A susceptor element 66 is positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate 60 and extends along a longitudinal axis 70 of the aerosol-generating article 250.

[0119] A wrapper 72 is wrapped around the mouthpiece element 52, the porous element 256, the aerosol-forming substrate 60, and the aerosol cooling element 62. Indicia 74 including printed lines are provided on the outer surface of the wrapper 72.

[0120] Figures 14-16 show different configurations of an aerosol generating system 300 including the aerosol generating device 10 of Figure 1 and the aerosol generating article 250 of Figures 12 and 13. The first and second closure members 22, 24 have been moved to their open positions to allow insertion of the aerosol generating article 250 into the cavity 16 defined by the first housing portion 12. Advantageously, biasing the first and second closure members 22, 24 to the closed position biases the first and second closure members 22, 24 against the aerosol generating article 250, retaining the aerosol generating article 250 within the cavity 16.

[0121] In each of the configurations of the aerosol-generating system 300, the user inserts the aerosol-generating article 250 into the cavity 16 until the indicia 74 is aligned with the edge of the first housing portion 12. In this position, the entire aerosol-forming substrate 60 and the susceptor element 66 are positioned within the inductor coil. Thus, the electric heater 26 heats the entire aerosol-forming substrate 60 and the user can inhale the generated aerosol through the mouthpiece element 52.

[0122] As described with reference to FIG. 1, the second housing portion 14 of the aerosol generating device 10 functions as a handle and may be rotated relative to the first housing portion 12. Thus, advantageously, a user may rotate the second housing portion 14 to any ergonomically comfortable position. For example, FIG. 14 illustrates a first configuration in which the second housing portion 14 extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article 250 received in the cavity 16 of the first housing portion 12. FIG. 15 illustrates a second configuration in which the second housing portion 14 is angled away from the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article 250. FIG. 16 illustrates a third configuration in which the second housing portion 14 is angled toward the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article 250. It will be understood that the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 14, 15, and 16 are merely exemplary and that a user may rotate the second housing portion 14 to any ergonomically comfortable position relative to the first housing portion 12.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a first housing portion defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article; a second housing portion extending from the first housing portion, the second housing portion being movable relative to the first housing portion; An electric heater, Power supply, a controller configured to provide power from the power source to the electric heater; The aerosol generating device, wherein the electric heater is positioned within the first housing portion and at least one of the power source and the controller is positioned within the second housing portion.

2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the second housing part is rotatable about the first housing part.

3. the cavity includes a first cavity end and a second cavity end opposite the first cavity end, the cavity defining a first direction extending between the first cavity end and the second cavity end; Optionally, the first housing portion defines a first opening at the first cavity end and a second opening at the second cavity end; Optionally, further comprising a first closure member arranged to selectively block at least a portion of said first opening, and optionally further comprising a second closure member arranged to selectively block at least a portion of said second opening; 3. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 or 2, optionally wherein the second housing portion defines a second direction extending between the first housing end and the second housing end, and the second housing portion is movable relative to the first housing portion to a position where the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

4. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second housing portion has an elongated shape and comprises a first housing end connected to the first housing portion for movement relative to the first housing portion, and a second housing end opposite the first housing end.

5. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to selectively prevent movement of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion.

6. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein both the power source and the controller are located within the second housing portion.

7. 7. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the electric heater extends around at least a portion of the cavity, and when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity, the aerosol generating article is received within the electric heater.

8. 1. An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol-generating article comprising at least one aerosol-forming substrate; An aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. 1. An aerosol-generating article comprising: a first mouthpiece element positioned at a first end of the aerosol-generating article; a second mouthpiece element positioned at a second end of the aerosol-generating article; and a single aerosol-forming substrate positioned between the first mouthpiece element and the second mouthpiece element; a first susceptor element positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate; and a second susceptor element positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating article defining a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end, the first susceptor element and the second susceptor element being spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction.

10. a wrapper wrapped around the first mouthpiece element, the second mouthpiece element, and the aerosol-forming substrate; 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of indicia on an outer surface of the wrapper, the aerosol-generating article defining a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end, the plurality of indicia being spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis.

11. 1. An aerosol-generating article comprising: at least one aerosol-forming substrate; At least one mouthpiece element; a wrapper wrapped around the at least one aerosol-forming substrate and the at least one mouthpiece element; a plurality of indicia on an exterior surface of the wrapper; the aerosol-generating article having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal direction extending between the first end and the second end; The indicia are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis.

12. 12. The aerosol-generating article of claim 10 or 11, wherein each of the indicia surrounds a portion of the wrapper.

13. 13. The aerosol-generating article of claim 10, 11, or 12, wherein said each of the indicia comprises at least one of a different size, a different shape, a different color, and a different motif.

14. 1. An aerosol generation system comprising: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 9 to 13, An aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing defining a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article; Electric heater, Power supply, and an aerosol generating device comprising a controller configured to provide power from the power source to the electric heater.

15. An aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and the aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

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