Holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generating system

Abstract

A holder assembly (15) for a cartridge (10) for an aerosol generation system (100) is provided. The holder assembly (15) includes a susceptor assembly (12), which includes a wick element (18) and a susceptor element (16). The wick element (18) has a planar shape and includes a first side (33), a second side (35), and a central portion (31) extending between the first side (33) and the second side (35). The susceptor element (16) extends around at least a portion of the central portion (31) of the wick element (18). The holder assembly (15) also includes a holder (14) that defines an airflow channel (26). The holder (14) includes a first slot (28) and a second slot (29) opposite the first slot (28). A first side (33) of the core element (18) is received in the first slot (28) and a second side (35) of the core element (18) is received in the second slot (29). The central portion (31) of the core element (18) and the susceptor element (16) are positioned within the airflow channel (26).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The present disclosure also relates to a method of manufacturing a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol generating systems configured to generate inhalable aerosols from liquid aerosol-forming substrates are known in the art. It is also known that such systems employ an induction heating mechanism to generate heat for vaporizing the aerosol-forming substrate. The induction heating mechanism typically includes an inductor coil disposed around a susceptor element. When the aerosol-forming substrate is a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, a wick element may be provided to transport liquid from a reservoir of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate toward the susceptor element. The flow of alternating current through the inductor coil generates a varying magnetic field that induces eddy currents in the susceptor element, thereby heating the susceptor element. The heat from the susceptor element vaporizes the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the wick element in the vicinity of the susceptor element. Airflow passing through the susceptor element entrains vapor. The entrained vapor cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user.

[0003] It would be desirable to improve the heating of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate by a susceptor element while facilitating the manufacture of systems that include the susceptor element. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The holder assembly may include a susceptor assembly. The susceptor assembly may include a wick element. The susceptor assembly may include the susceptor element. The core element may have a planar shape. The core element may include a first side, a second side, and a central portion extending between the first and second sides. The susceptor element may extend around at least a portion of the central portion of the core element. The holder assembly may include a holder defining an airflow channel. The holder may include a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot. The first side of the core element may be received in the first slot. The second side of the core element may be received in the second slot. The central portion of the core element and the susceptor element may be positioned within the airflow channel.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system is provided. The holder assembly includes a susceptor assembly, which includes a wick element and a susceptor element. The wick element has a planar shape and includes a first side, a second side, and a central portion extending between the first and second sides. The susceptor element extends around at least a portion of the central portion of the wick element. The holder assembly also includes a holder defining an airflow channel. The holder includes a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot. The first side of the wick element is received in the first slot, and the second side of the wick element is received in the second slot. The central portion of the wick element and the susceptor element are positioned within the airflow channel.

[0006] Advantageously, providing a wick element with a planar shape may increase or maximize the surface area of the wick element compared to other shapes, which may advantageously improve or maximize vaporization of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the wick element.

[0007] Advantageously, providing a susceptor element around the central portion of the core element can reduce or minimize heat transfer from the susceptor element to the holder. Advantageously, this can increase or maximize heating of the core element by the susceptor element. The susceptor element preferably extends around only the central portion of the core element. In other words, the susceptor element preferably does not contact the first side of the core element, the second side of the core element, or the holder.

[0008] Advantageously, positioning the first and second sides of the core element within the first and second slots on the holder can facilitate correct positioning of the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element within the airflow channel. Advantageously, the first and second slots can facilitate manufacture of the holder assembly by inserting the first and second sides of the core element into the first and second slots, respectively. Advantageously, the first and second slots can facilitate movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate by the first and second sides of the core element to the central portion of the core element.

[0009] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" is used to describe a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the aerosol-generating device is a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that is inhalable directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-forming substrate may form part of a cartridge or aerosol-generating article configured to engage with the aerosol-generating device.

[0010] As used herein, the term "aerosol" refers to a dispersion of solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. An aerosol may be visible or invisible. An aerosol may contain not only vapor of a substance that is normally a liquid or solid at room temperature, but also solid particles or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets.

[0011] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate made of or including an aerosol-forming material that has the ability to release volatile compounds upon heating to generate an aerosol.

[0012] As used herein, "susceptor element" means an element that is heatable by the penetration of a varying magnetic field. The susceptor element is typically heatable by at least one of Joule heating and hysteresis losses due to the induction of eddy currents in the susceptor element.

[0013] Preferably, only the first side of the core element is received in the first slot, and only the second side of the core element is received in the second slot. In other words, it is preferred that other components of the holder assembly are not received in the first slot and the second slot. Advantageously, positioning only the first side of the core element in the first slot and only the second side of the core element can facilitate sealing between the core element and the holder. Advantageously, sealing between the core element and the holder can reduce or prevent leakage of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the airflow channel between the first slot and the first side of the core element and between the second slot and the second side of the core element.

[0014] The holder may include a tubular portion at least partially defining an airflow channel, the first slot and the second slot being defined by the tubular portion. The first slot and the second slot are preferably positioned on opposite sides of the airflow channel. Advantageously, positioning the first slot opposite the second slot may facilitate centering the susceptor assembly within the airflow channel. Advantageously, positioning the first slot opposite the second slot may facilitate inserting the first and second sides of the planar core element into the first and second slots, respectively, during manufacture of the holder assembly.

[0015] The airflow channel may define a longitudinal direction extending between a first end of the airflow channel and a second end of the airflow channel.

[0016] The planar shape of the core element preferably extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, positioning the planar shape of the core element parallel to the longitudinal axis may position the planar shape of the core element parallel to the airflow through the airflow channel during use. Advantageously, the parallel airflow may increase or maximize the flow of vaporized liquid aerosol-forming substrate away from the susceptor assembly. Advantageously, the parallel airflow may reduce or minimize the draw resistance through the airflow channel during use.

[0017] Preferably, each of the first and second slots has a longitudinally extending elongated shape. Advantageously, providing each of the first and second slots with a longitudinally extending elongated shape may facilitate positioning the planar shape of the core element parallel to the airflow through the airflow channel during use.

[0018] The first slot may have at least one of a different size and a different shape compared to the second slot. Advantageously, providing the first and second slots with at least one of a different size and a different shape may facilitate insertion of the susceptor assembly into the airflow channel through one of the first slot and the second slot during manufacture of the holder assembly.

[0019] Each of the first slot and the second slot preferably has a length and a width extending perpendicular to the length. The length of the second slot may be greater than the length of the first slot. The width of the second slot may be greater than the width of the first slot. Advantageously, providing the second slot with at least one of a greater length and a greater width may facilitate insertion of a susceptor assembly into an airflow channel through the second slot. For example, the thickness of the susceptor assembly may be greater at a central portion of the core element due to the additional presence of the susceptor element. Thus, the first slot may be sized to receive only a first side portion of the core element. The second slot may be sized to allow the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element to pass through the second slot during manufacture of the holder assembly.

[0020] The length of each of the first and second slots preferably extends in the longitudinal direction. Advantageously, providing each of the first and second slots with a longitudinally extending length may facilitate positioning the planar shape of the core element parallel to the airflow through the airflow channel during use.

[0021] The shape of the first slot is preferably the same as the cross-sectional shape of the first side of the core element. The first slot may have a rectangular shape. The first slot may have a rounded rectangular shape.

[0022] The second slot may have the same shape as the first slot. The shape of the second slot may be the same as the cross-sectional shape of the second side of the core element. The shape of the second slot may be the same as the cross-sectional shape of the susceptor assembly through the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element. The second slot may have a rectangular shape. The second slot may have a rounded rectangular shape.

[0023] The second slot may include an elongated portion and an enlarged portion at an end of the elongated portion. Advantageously, the enlarged portion may facilitate passage of a portion of the susceptor element through the second slot in embodiments in which the susceptor assembly is inserted into the airflow channel through the second slot during manufacture of the holder assembly. For example, the enlarged portion may facilitate passage of a susceptor element through a fold, joint, or seam.

[0024] The elongated portion of the second slot may have a rectangular shape.The elongated portion of the second slot may have a rounded rectangular shape.

[0025] The enlarged portion of the second slot may have a circular shape.

[0026] During use of the holder assembly in a cartridge having an aerosol generation system, air may flow through the airflow channel from the first end to the second end. The enlarged portion of the second slot is preferably positioned closer to the second end of the airflow channel than the elongated portion of the second slot. In other words, the enlarged portion of the second slot is preferably downstream of the elongated portion of the second slot. Advantageously, positioning the enlarged portion at the downstream end of the second slot may facilitate positioning a fold, joint, or seam of the susceptor element at the downstream end of the susceptor assembly. Advantageously, positioning the fold, joint, or seam of the susceptor element at the downstream end of the susceptor element may reduce or eliminate airflow interference with the fold, joint, or seam during use.

[0027] The susceptor assembly preferably has a planar shape with a first plane and a second plane opposite the first plane. The susceptor assembly may have a thickness extending between the first plane and the second plane. The thickness of the susceptor assembly may be greater at a central portion of the core element than at each of the first side of the core element and the second side of the core element.

[0028] The susceptor assembly preferably has an upstream end and a downstream end arranged so that air flows across the susceptor assembly from the upstream end to the downstream end during use of the holder assembly in a cartridge with an aerosol generation system. The thickness of the susceptor assembly at the central portion of the core element may be greater at the downstream end than at the upstream end. For example, the thickness of the susceptor assembly may be greater at the downstream end as a result of folds, joints, or seams in the susceptor element.

[0029] The holder may include a first holder portion and a second holder portion connected to the first holder portion, with the first slot and the second slot each being partially defined by the first holder portion and partially defined by the second holder portion. Advantageously, partially defining the first and second slots each by the first and second holder portions may facilitate inserting the susceptor assembly into the holder during manufacture of the holder assembly. For example, the first and second sides of the core element may be inserted into the partial slots defined by the first or second holder portion before the first and second holder portions are connected to each other. In this manner, the first and second sides of the core element may be automatically received within the first and second slots when the first and second slots are formed during connection of the first and second holder portions to each other.

[0030] Each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion may have a tubular shape. The first holder portion and the second holder portion may be connected to each other at a position between the first end and the second end of the airflow channel. Each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion may have an upstream end and a downstream end, and the upstream end of the second holder portion is connected to the downstream end of the first holder portion. The first holder portion may define an upstream portion of the first slot and an upstream portion of the second slot. The second holder portion may define a downstream portion of the first slot and a downstream portion of the second slot.

[0031] Each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion may extend between a first end of the airflow channel and a second end of the airflow channel. The first holder portion and the second holder portion may be connected to each other along one or more joints extending between the first end of the airflow channel and the second end of the airflow channel. Each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion may have a semi-tubular shape.

[0032] The second holder part may be connected to the first holder part by an interference fit.

[0033] The holder may include a retaining portion arranged to secure the second holder portion to the first holder portion. The retaining portion may be engaged with at least one of the first holder portion and the second holder portion by an interference fit.

[0034] The retaining portion may be integrally formed with the first holder portion or the second holder portion. The retaining portion may be integrally formed with the first holder portion and engaged with the second holder portion by an interference fit. The retaining portion may be integrally formed with the second holder portion and engaged with the first holder portion by an interference fit.

[0035] The retaining portion may be formed separately from the first and second holder portions. The retaining portion may be engaged with both the first and second holder portions by an interference fit. The retaining portion may have an annular shape. The retaining portion may extend around a portion of the first holder portion and a portion of the second holder portion.

[0036] The holder may have a tubular shape with a first end and a second end. Each of the first slot and the second slot may extend from the first end of the holder such that each of the first slot and the second slot is open at the first end of the holder. Advantageously, the open ends of the first and second slots may facilitate manufacturing of the holder assembly. For example, the first and second sides of the core element may be simultaneously inserted into the first and second slots, respectively, with the open ends of the slots.

[0037] Each of the first and second slots may include an insert portion extending from the first end of the holder and a retaining portion extending from the insert portion. Advantageously, the insert portion may facilitate inserting a side of the core element into the slot.

[0038] Each insert portion preferably has a cross-sectional dimension that is larger than its respective retaining portion. Each insert portion preferably has a tapered shape. Each insert portion preferably has a cross-sectional dimension that decreases in size in a direction along the holder from the first end.

[0039] Each retention portion preferably has a constant cross-sectional size in a direction along the holder from the first end. Advantageously, providing each retention portion with a constant cross-sectional size can facilitate lateral retention of the core element within the slot.

[0040] The first side of the core element and the second side of the core element are preferably received only within the retaining portions of the first slot and the second slot, respectively, i.e., the insert portions of the first and second slots preferably function only to facilitate insertion of the sides of the core element into the retaining portions of the first and second slots.

[0041] The holder assembly may include a cap connected to the first end of the holder, the cap being arranged to close each of the first and second slots at the first end of the holder. Advantageously, closing the ends of the first and second slots at the first end of the holder may facilitate retention of the first and second sides of the core element within the first and second slots.

[0042] In embodiments in which the first slot and the second slot each have an insert, the cap is preferably arranged to block and seal the insert of each of the first slot and the second slot. Advantageously, blocking and sealing the insert of each of the first slot and the second slot can reduce or prevent leakage of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the airflow channel through the insert of the first and second slot.

[0043] The cap is preferably connected to the holder by an interference fit.

[0044] Preferably, the first side of the core element is received in the first slot by an interference fit, and the second side of the core element is received in the second slot by an interference fit. Advantageously, using an interference fit to retain the core element in the first and second slots may simplify manufacture of the holder assembly. Advantageously, using an interference fit to retain the core element in the first and second slots may facilitate sealing between the core element and the holder in each of the first and second slots.

[0045] The susceptor element preferably has an annular shape and comprises at least one strip of susceptor material extending around a central portion of the core element.

[0046] The susceptor elements may be formed from any suitable material. Suitable materials include at least one of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, and other conductive materials. Advantageously, the susceptor elements may be formed from a ferromagnetic material. Preferably, the susceptor elements may be formed from AISI 430 stainless steel.

[0047] The susceptor element may have a relative permeability of 1 to 40,000 when measured at a suitable frequency and temperature, for example, at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and a frequency of up to 10 kHz. A lower permeability material may be used if it is desired to rely mostly on eddy currents for heating, or a higher permeability material may be used if a hysteresis effect is desired. Preferably, the material has a relative permeability of 500 to 40,000. This may provide efficient heating of the susceptor element.

[0048] The susceptor element may be fluid-permeable. As used herein, a "fluid-permeable" element refers to an element that allows a liquid or gas to permeate therethrough. A fluid-permeable susceptor element may advantageously allow the vaporized aerosol-forming substrate to escape through the susceptor element. The susceptor element may include a mesh. As used herein, the term "mesh" encompasses grids and arrays of filaments having spaces therebetween. The term mesh also includes woven and non-woven materials. In use, the vaporized aerosol-forming substrate may advantageously escape from the wick element through gaps present in the susceptor element when the susceptor element employs a mesh structure.

[0049] The wick element may comprise a capillary material. A capillary material is a material capable of transporting liquid from one end of the material to another by capillary action. The capillary material may have a fibrous or spongy structure. Preferably, the capillary material comprises a bundle of capillaries. For example, the capillary material may comprise a plurality of fibers or threads, or other fine tubes. In some embodiments, the capillary material may comprise a spongy or foam-like material. The structure of the capillary material may form a plurality of small holes or tubes through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can move by capillary action. If one or more strips comprise gaps, the capillary material may extend into the gaps. In use, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be drawn into the gaps by capillary action. The wick element may comprise or consist of a layer of an electrically insulating material. The wick element may comprise a non-metallic material. The wick element may comprise a hydrophilic or oleophilic material. This may advantageously facilitate transport of the aerosol-forming substrate through the wick element.

[0050] The core element may preferably comprise or consist of cotton, rayon, or glass fibers.

[0051] The holder may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the holder is formed from a plastic or thermoplastic suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications. For example, the holder may include at least one of polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and not brittle.

[0052] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The cartridge may include a holder assembly according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure. The cartridge may include a reservoir for a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The reservoir may be in fluid communication with a first side of the core element and a second side of the core element by a first slot and a second slot, respectively.

[0053] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The cartridge comprises a holder assembly according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, according to any of the examples or embodiments described herein. The cartridge also comprises a reservoir for a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The reservoir is in fluid communication with a first side of the core element and a second side of the core element by a first slot and a second slot, respectively.

[0054] The reservoir preferably extends around at least a portion of an outer surface of the holder. The reservoir preferably has an annular shape. The cartridge may include a cartridge outer housing extending around at least a portion of the holder, the reservoir being defined at least in part by a space between the outer surface of the holder and an inner surface of the cartridge outer housing.

[0055] The cartridge may include a retention material contained within the reservoir, the retention material being for retaining the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The retention material may be a foam, a sponge, or a fibrous mass. The retention material may be formed of a polymer or copolymer. The retention material may be a spun polymer.

[0056] The cartridge preferably comprises a liquid aerosol-forming substrate within the reservoir. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a plant-derived material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate on heating. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogenised tobacco material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco-containing material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogenised plant-derived material.

[0057] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include one or more aerosol formers. The aerosol former is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of a dense, stable aerosol during use and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the system. Examples of suitable aerosol formers include glycerin and propylene glycol. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (e.g., triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (e.g., glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids (e.g., dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate). The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavors.

[0058] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include nicotine and at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former may be glycerin or propylene glycol. The aerosol former may include both glycerin and propylene glycol. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may have a nicotine concentration of about 0.5 percent to about 10 percent, for example, about 2 percent.

[0059] The cartridge preferably includes a mouthpiece defining an air outlet, the air outlet being in fluid communication with the downstream end of the airflow channel. The mouthpiece may be integrally formed with the holder. The mouthpiece may be formed separately from the holder and connected to the holder. The mouthpiece may be connected to the holder by an interference fit.

[0060] In embodiments where the cartridge includes a cartridge outer housing, the mouthpiece may be integrally formed with the cartridge outer housing, the mouthpiece may be formed separately from and connected to the cartridge outer housing, or the mouthpiece may be connected to the cartridge outer housing by an interference fit.

[0061] The upstream end of the airflow channel may form a cartridge air inlet. During use, air enters the cartridge through the cartridge air inlet, flows through the airflow channel, across the susceptor assembly, and exits the cartridge through an air outlet defined by the mouthpiece. Vaporized liquid aerosol-forming substrate generated by the susceptor assembly is entrained in the airflow within the airflow channel. The entrained vapor condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user, and the aerosol exits the cartridge through the air outlet defined by the mouthpiece.

[0062] The cartridge may include at least one seal extending across a portion of the airflow channel. The cartridge may include an upstream seal extending across the cartridge air inlet. The upstream seal may be sealed to the holder. The upstream seal may be sealed to the cartridge outer housing. The upstream seal may be sealed to both the holder and the cartridge outer housing. The upstream seal may be frangible or removable. The upstream seal may be arranged to automatically rupture upon insertion of the cartridge into the aerosol generation device.

[0063] The cartridge may include a downstream seal. The downstream seal may extend across an air outlet defined by the mouthpiece. The downstream seal may be sealed to the mouthpiece. The downstream seal may be frangible or removable.

[0064] In embodiments in which the mouthpiece is formed separately from the holder, the downstream seal may extend across the downstream end of the airflow channel defined by the holder. The downstream seal may be sealed to the holder. The downstream seal may be sealed to the cartridge outer housing. The downstream seal may be sealed to both the holder and the cartridge outer housing. The downstream seal may be frangible or removable. The downstream seal may be arranged to automatically rupture upon connection of the holder to the mouthpiece by a user.

[0065] In embodiments in which the cartridge includes a mouthpiece, a cartridge outer housing, or both a mouthpiece and a cartridge outer housing, each of the mouthpiece and the cartridge outer housing may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the mouthpiece and the cartridge outer housing are formed from a plastic or thermoplastic material suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications. For example, the mouthpiece and the cartridge outer housing may include at least one of polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and not brittle.

[0066] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system may include a cartridge according to the third or fourth aspect of the present disclosure. The aerosol generation system may include an aerosol generation device. The aerosol generation device may include a device housing defining a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the holder assembly such that the susceptor assembly is positioned within the cavity. The aerosol generation device may include an inductor coil arranged to generate a varying magnetic field within the cavity.

[0067] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system comprises a cartridge according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, according to any of the examples or embodiments described herein. The aerosol generation system also comprises an aerosol generation device. The aerosol generation device comprises a device housing defining a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the holder assembly such that the susceptor assembly is positioned within the cavity. The aerosol generation device also comprises an inductor coil arranged to generate a varying magnetic field within the cavity.

[0068] The inductor coil may include a planar spiral inductor coil.

[0069] The inductor coil may be wound around the final portion of the cavity. The inductor coil may have a tubular or helical shape. Preferably, the inductor coil is both tubular and helical. Tubular and helical coils preferably have a non-circular cross section when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the coil, i.e., perpendicular to the central magnetic axis of the coil. The inductor coil is preferably positioned such that the susceptor assembly is positioned inside the inductor coil when the holder assembly is received in the cavity.

[0070] The aerosol generating device preferably includes a power source.

[0071] The power source may be a DC power source. In some preferred embodiments, the power source is a battery, such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The power source may also be 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 for one or more uses of the device. For example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to allow for continuous generation of aerosol for approximately six minutes, or a multiple of six minutes, corresponding to the typical time it takes to smoke a conventional cigarette. In another example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to allow for a predetermined number of uses of the device, or for discontinuous activation. In one embodiment, the power source is a DC power source having a DC supply voltage in the range of about 2.5 volts to about 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of about 1 ampere to about 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power supply in the range of about 2.5 watts to about 45 watts).

[0072] The aerosol generating device preferably comprises a controller, which may be arranged to supply a varying current from the power source to the inductor coil.

[0073] The controller may comprise a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application specific integrated chip (ASIC) or other electronic circuit capable of providing control. The controller may comprise additional electronic components. The controller may be configured to regulate the supply of current to the inductor coil. Current may be supplied to the inductor coil continuously after activation of the aerosol generating device, or may be supplied intermittently, such as between puffs.

[0074] The controller may be configured to supply a varying current to the inductor coil having a frequency between about 5 kilohertz and about 500 kilohertz.

[0075] The controller may be configured to supply a high frequency varying current to the inductor coil. As used herein, the term "high frequency varying current" refers to a varying current having a frequency of about 500 kilohertz to about 30 megahertz. The high frequency varying current may have a frequency of about 1 megahertz to about 30 megahertz, such as about 1 megahertz to about 10 megahertz, or such as about 5 megahertz to about 8 megahertz.

[0076] The controller may advantageously comprise a DC / AC inverter, which may comprise a class C, class D or class E power amplifier.

[0077] The device housing may be elongated. The device housing 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.

[0078] The device housing may include an air inlet. The air inlet may be configured to allow ambient air to enter the device housing. Preferably, the air inlet is in fluid communication with the cavity. The device housing may include any suitable number of air inlets. The device housing may include multiple air inlets.

[0079] The aerosol-generating device may include a user interface for activating the device, for example a button that initiates heating of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0080] The aerosol generating device may be provided with a display to indicate the status of the device or the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0081] The aerosol generating device may include a puff sensor for detecting when a user puffs on the aerosol generating system.

[0082] The aerosol generating device is preferably portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to that of a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating device may have a total length of about 30 mm to about 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 30 mm.

[0083] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for manufacturing a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The holder assembly may be the holder assembly according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure. The method may include providing a susceptor assembly. The susceptor assembly may include a core element having a planar shape and including a first side, a second side, and a central portion extending between the first and second sides. The susceptor assembly may also include a susceptor element extending around at least a portion of the central portion of the core element. The method may include providing a holder defining an airflow channel. The holder may include a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot. The method may include inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and inserting the second side of the core element into the second slot so that the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element are positioned within the airflow channel.

[0084] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for manufacturing a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The holder assembly may be the holder assembly according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, according to any of the examples or embodiments described herein. The method includes providing a susceptor assembly. The susceptor assembly includes a core element having a planar shape and including a first side, a second side, and a central portion extending between the first and second sides. The susceptor assembly also includes a susceptor element extending around at least a portion of the central portion of the core element. The method also includes providing a holder defining an airflow channel. The holder includes a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot. The method may also include inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and inserting the second side of the core element into the second slot such that the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element are positioned within the airflow channel.

[0085] The first slot may have at least one of a different size and a different shape compared to the second slot. Inserting a first side of the core element into the first slot and a second side of the core element into the second slot may include forcing the first side of the core element through the second slot and into the airflow channel, forcing a central portion of the core element and the susceptor element through the second slot and into the airflow channel, and forcing the second side of the core element into the second slot and forcing the first side of the core element into the first slot.

[0086] The holder may include a first holder portion partially defining each of the first and second slots and a second holder portion partially defining each of the first and second slots. The step of inserting a first side of the core element into the first slot and a second side of the core element into the second slot may include inserting the susceptor assembly into the first holder portion or the second holder portion, and connecting the second holder portion to the first holder portion such that the first and second holder portions together define the first and second slots and such that the first side of the core element is received in the first slot and the second side of the core element is received in the second slot.

[0087] The holder may have a tubular shape with a first end and a second end. Each of the first slot and the second slot may extend from the first end of the holder such that each of the first slot and the second slot is open at the first end of the holder. Inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and the second side of the core element into the second slot may include sliding the first side of the core element into the first slot with the open end of the first slot and simultaneously sliding the second side of the core element into the second slot with the open end of the second slot. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0088] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a cartridge having a holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a further longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG. 1 rotated 90 degrees. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIGS. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the susceptor assembly of the cartridge of FIGS. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a first side view of a holder for a cartridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a second side view of the holder of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of an alternative holder assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with the holder assembly in a partially assembled state. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a side view of the holder assembly of FIG. 7 in a fully assembled state. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows an exploded perspective view of a further alternative holder assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows the holder assembly of FIG. 9 in an assembled state. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a further alternative holder assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows a side view of a further alternative holder assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system comprising the cartridge of FIGS. 1 to 3 and an aerosol generation device, where the cartridge is separated from the aerosol generation device. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system of FIG. 13, in which the cartridge is connected to an aerosol generation device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0089] 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.

[0090] Example 1: 1. A holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system, the holder assembly comprising: 1. A susceptor assembly comprising: a core element having a planar shape and including a first side, a second side, and a central portion extending between the first side and the second side; a susceptor element extending around at least a portion of the central portion of the core element; a holder defining an airflow channel, the holder having a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot, a first side of the core element being received in the first slot and a second side of the core element being received in the second slot so that a central portion of the core element and the susceptor element are positioned within the airflow channel.

[0091] Example 2: 2. The holder assembly of example 1, wherein only a first side of the core element is received in the first slot and only a second side of the core element is received in the second slot.

[0092] Example 3: 3. The holder assembly of example 1 or 2, wherein the holder comprises a tubular portion that at least partially defines the airflow channel, and the first slot and the second slot are defined by the tubular portion.

[0093] Example 4: The holder assembly of any one of Examples 1, 2, or 3, wherein the first slot and the second slot are positioned on opposite sides of the airflow channel.

[0094] Example 5: A holder assembly described in any of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the air flow channel defines a longitudinal direction extending between a first end of the air flow channel and a second end of the air flow channel, and the planar shape of the core element extends parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0095] Example 6: A holder assembly described in any of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the air flow channel defines a longitudinal direction extending between a first end of the air flow channel and a second end of the air flow channel, and each of the first slot and the second slot has an elongated shape extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0096] Example 7: 7. The holder assembly of any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first slot has at least one of a different size and a different shape compared to the second slot.

[0097] Example 8: A holder assembly as described in Example 7, wherein each of the first slot and the second slot has a length and a width extending perpendicular to the length, and at least one of the length of the second slot and the width of the second slot is greater than the length of the first slot and the width of the first slot, respectively.

[0098] Example 9: A holder assembly as described in Example 8, wherein the airflow channel defines a longitudinal direction extending between a first end of the airflow channel and a second end of the airflow channel, and wherein the length of each of the first slot and second slot extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0099] Example 10: The holder assembly of example 7, 8 or 9, wherein the first slot has a rectangular or rounded rectangular shape.

[0100] Example 11: The holder assembly of example 10, wherein the second slot has a rectangular or rounded rectangular shape.

[0101] Example 12: 11. The holder assembly of example 10, wherein the second slot comprises an elongated portion and an enlarged portion at an end of the elongated portion.

[0102] Example 13: 13. The holder assembly of example 12, wherein the elongated portion of the second slot has a rectangular or rounded rectangular shape.

[0103] Example 14: 14. The holder assembly of example 12 or 13, wherein the enlarged portion has a circular shape.

[0104] Example 15: A holder assembly as described in Examples 12, 13 or 14, wherein the airflow channel defines a longitudinal direction extending between a first end of the airflow channel and a second end of the airflow channel, air flows through the airflow channel from the first end to the second end during use of the holder assembly in a cartridge having an aerosol generation system, and the enlarged portion of the second slot is positioned closer to the second end of the airflow channel than the elongated portion of the second slot.

[0105] Example 16: A holder assembly described in any of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the holder comprises a first holder portion and a second holder portion connected to the first holder portion, and each of the first slot and the second slot is partially defined by the first holder portion and partially defined by the second holder portion.

[0106] Example 17: 17. The holder assembly of example 16, wherein the first holder portion and the second holder portion each have a tubular shape.

[0107] Example 18: A holder assembly as described in Example 17, wherein each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion has an upstream end and a downstream end, and the upstream end of the second holder portion is connected to the downstream end of the first holder portion.

[0108] Example 19: A holder assembly as described in Example 16, wherein the airflow channel defines a longitudinal direction extending between a first end of the airflow channel and a second end of the airflow channel, and each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion extends between the first end and the second end.

[0109] Example 20: 20. The holder assembly of example 16 or 19, wherein the first holder portion and the second holder portion each have a semi-tubular shape.

[0110] Example 21: 21. The holder assembly of any of Examples 16-20, wherein the second holder portion is connected to the first holder portion by an interference fit.

[0111] Example 22: 22. The holder assembly of any of Examples 16-21, wherein the holder further comprises a retaining portion arranged to secure the second holder portion to the first holder portion.

[0112] Example 23: 23. The holder assembly of example embodiment 22, wherein the retaining portion engages with at least one of the first holder portion and the second holder portion by an interference fit.

[0113] Example 24: 24. The holder assembly of example 22 or 23, wherein the holding portion is integrally formed with the first holder portion or the second holder portion.

[0114] Example 25: 24. The holder assembly of example 22 or 23, wherein the retaining portion has an annular shape and extends around a portion of the first holder portion and a portion of the second holder portion.

[0115] Example 26: 7. A holder assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the holder has a tubular shape with a first end and a second end, and each of the first slot and the second slot extends from the first end of the holder such that each of the first slot and the second slot is open at the first end of the holder.

[0116] Example 27: 27. The holder assembly of Example 26, wherein the first slot and the second slot each include an insert portion extending from the first end of the holder and a retaining portion extending from the insert portion.

[0117] Example 28: The holder assembly of Example 27, wherein each insert portion has a tapered shape.

[0118] Example 29: 29. The holder assembly of example 27 or 28, wherein each insert portion has a cross-sectional dimension that decreases in size in a direction along the holder from the first end.

[0119] Example 30: 30. The holder assembly of example 27, 28 or 29, wherein each holding portion has a constant cross-sectional size in a direction along the holder from the first end.

[0120] Example 31: A holder assembly according to any one of Examples 27 to 30, wherein the first side of the core element and the second side of the core element are received only in the retaining portions of the first slot and the second slot, respectively.

[0121] Example 32: A holder assembly described in any of Examples 26 to 30, further comprising a cap connected to the first end of the holder, the cap arranged to close each of the first slot and the second slot at the first end of the holder.

[0122] Example 33: A holder assembly described in any of Examples 1 to 32, wherein a first side of the core element is received within the first slot by an interference fit and a second side of the core element is received within the second slot by an interference fit.

[0123] Example 34: 34. The holder assembly of any one of Examples 1 to 33, wherein the susceptor assembly has a planar shape including a first plane and a second plane opposite the first plane.

[0124] Example 35: A holder assembly as described in Example 34, wherein the susceptor assembly has a thickness extending between the first plane and the second plane, and the thickness of the susceptor assembly is greater at a central portion of the core element than at each of the first side of the core element and the second side of the core element.

[0125] Example 36: A holder assembly as described in Example 34 or 35, wherein the susceptor assembly has an upstream end and a downstream end arranged such that air flows across the susceptor assembly from the upstream end to the downstream end during use of the holder assembly in a cartridge having an aerosol generation system, the susceptor assembly having a thickness extending between the first plane and the second plane, and the thickness of the susceptor assembly at the central portion of the core element is greater at the downstream end than at the upstream end.

[0126] Example 37: 37. The holder assembly of any of Examples 1-36, wherein the susceptor element has an annular shape and includes at least one strip of susceptor material extending around a central portion of the core element.

[0127] Example 38: 1. A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, the cartridge comprising: A holder assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 37; a reservoir for a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the reservoir being in fluid communication with a first side of the wick element and a second side of the wick element by a first slot and a second slot, respectively.

[0128] Example 39: 39. The cartridge of example 38, wherein the reservoir extends around at least a portion of an outer surface of the holder.

[0129] Example 40: 40. The cartridge of example 38 or 39, wherein the reservoir has an annular shape.

[0130] Example 41: 41. The cartridge of Example 38, 39 or 40, further comprising a mouthpiece defining an air outlet, the air outlet in fluid communication with the downstream end of the airflow channel.

[0131] Example 42: 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 38 to 41, An aerosol generating device, comprising: an apparatus housing defining a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the holder assembly such that the susceptor assembly is positioned within the cavity; an inductor coil disposed to generate a varying magnetic field within the cavity; and an aerosol generator comprising:

[0132] Example 43: 1. A method of manufacturing a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generation system, the method comprising: 1. A susceptor assembly comprising: a core element having a planar shape and including a first side, a second side, and a central portion extending between the first side and the second side; a susceptor element extending around at least a portion of a central portion of the core element; providing a holder defining an airflow channel and including a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot; The method includes inserting a first side of a core element into a first slot and inserting a second side of the core element into a second slot so that a central portion of the core element and a susceptor element are positioned within an airflow channel.

[0133] Example 44: the first slot has at least one of a different size and a different shape compared to the second slot, and the step of inserting a first side of the core element into the first slot and a second side of the core element into the second slot comprises: forcing a first side of the core element through the second slot and into the airflow channel; forcing the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element through the second slot into the airflow channel; 44. The method of example 43, comprising: forcing the second side of the core element into the second slot and forcing the first side of the core element into the first slot.

[0134] Example 45: The holder includes a first holder portion partially defining each of the first slot and the second slot, and the holder further includes a second holder portion partially defining each of the first slot and the second slot, and the step of inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and the second side of the core element into the second slot comprises: Inserting a susceptor assembly into the first holder portion or the second holder portion; The method of Example 43, comprising connecting the second holder portion to the first holder portion so that the first holder portion and the second holder portion together define a first slot and a second slot, and so that a first side of the core element is received in the first slot and a second side of the core element is received in the second slot.

[0135] Example 46: the holder having a tubular shape including a first end and a second end, each of the first slot and the second slot extending from the first end of the holder such that each of the first slot and the second slot is open at the first end of the holder, and the step of inserting a first side of the core element into the first slot and a second side of the core element into the second slot includes: The method of example 43, comprising sliding a first side of the core element into the first slot through the open end of the first slot, and simultaneously sliding a second side of the core element into the second slot through the open end of the second slot.

[0136] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures.

[0137] 1 and 2 show two longitudinal cross-sectional views of a cartridge 10 for an aerosol generation system, the cartridge 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The two cross-sectional views are taken in two planes perpendicular to each other. FIG. 3 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of the cartridge 10. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 is indicated by line 1-1 in FIG. 3. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 is indicated by line 2-2 in FIG. 3.

[0138] The cartridge 10 includes a holder 14 and a susceptor assembly 12 attached to the holder 14. The susceptor assembly 12 and the holder 14 together form a holder assembly 15. The susceptor assembly 12 is planar and thin, having a thickness dimension significantly smaller than its length and width dimensions. The susceptor assembly 12 is rectangular in shape and includes a susceptor element 16 wrapped around a core element 18. The width 19 of the susceptor element 16 is smaller than the width 21 of the core element 18, and the susceptor element 16 is wrapped around a central portion 31 of the core element 18 to define an outer, exposed portion of the core element 18 that is not surrounded by the susceptor element 16. The outer, exposed portion of the core element 18 includes a first side 33 and a second side 35. The first and second sides 33, 35 protrude through first and second slots 28, 29, respectively, into one of two channels 45. The first and second slots 28, 29 are disposed on opposite sides of an interior sidewall 27 of the holder 14. The interior sidewall 27 defines an airflow channel 26 in which the susceptor assembly 12 is positioned.

[0139] The susceptor element 16 comprises a sintered mesh formed from ferritic and austenitic stainless steel filaments. The core element 18 comprises a porous body of rayon filaments. The core element 18 is configured to deliver a liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the first and second side portions 33, 35 to the central portion 31 and to the susceptor element 16 wrapped around the central portion 31.

[0140] The susceptor element 16 is configured to be heatable by penetration into a varying magnetic field to vaporize the aerosol-forming substrate. First and second sides 33, 35 of the wick element 18 protrude through first and second slots 28, 29, respectively, in the holder 14 such that the holder 14 supports the susceptor assembly 12 in place within the airflow channel 26.

[0141] The susceptor assembly 12 is partially disposed within the airflow channel 26 of the tubular holder 14 and extends in a plane parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the holder 14. The susceptor element 16 is completely disposed within the airflow channel 26 of the holder 14, and the outer exposed portion 20 of the core element 18 extends into the two channels 45 through a pair of openings 28 in the interior sidewall 27 of the holder 14. First and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 define a mounting area of the susceptor assembly 12 for mounting the susceptor assembly 12 within the holder 14. The first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 are received and retained within the first and second slots 28, 29 by an interference fit. Advantageously, the interference fit may simplify manufacturing of the holder assembly 15. Advantageously, the interference fit can reduce or prevent leakage of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from channel 45 into airflow channel 26 .

[0142] The cartridge 10 has an outer housing 36 having a mouth end and a connecting end opposite the mouth end. The mouth end of the outer housing 36 defines a mouthpiece 41 having an air outlet 38 at the mouth end of the cartridge 10. During use, aerosol is delivered to a user through the air outlet 38 for inhalation. The connecting end of the outer housing 36 is configured to connect the cartridge 10 to an aerosol generating device, as described in detail below. The outer housing 36 defines an interior space within which a holder assembly 15 is contained. The holder assembly 15 is received within the interior space of the outer housing 36 by an interference fit. The holder assembly 15 is positioned within the outer housing 36 such that the susceptor assembly 12 and holder 14 are located toward the connecting end of the cartridge 10. The outer housing 36 is formed from a moldable plastic material, such as polypropylene.

[0143] The outer width of the outer housing 36 is greater at the mouth end of the cartridge 10 than at the connecting end to define the mouthpiece 41. The change in outer width of the outer housing 36 is a step change that forms a shoulder 37. The shoulder 37 allows the connecting end of the cartridge 10 to be received within the cavity of the aerosol generation device, locating the cartridge in the correct position within the device. The shoulder 37 also allows the mouth end of the cartridge 10 to conform to the exterior shape of the aerosol generation device, allowing the mouthpiece 41 to remain outside the aerosol generation device.

[0144] The cartridge 10 further comprises a liquid reservoir 44. The liquid reservoir 44 is defined within the cartridge 10 for holding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42.

[0145] A liquid reservoir 44 is positioned within the mouthpiece 41 and comprises an annular space defined by the outer housing 36 .

[0146] The interior sidewall of mouthpiece 41 defines a further airflow channel 48 that extends between the downstream end of airflow channel 26 of holder 14 and air outlet 38 of mouthpiece 41 .

[0147] The liquid reservoir 44 further includes two channels 45 defined between the outer housing 36 at the connecting end and the holder 14. The two channels 45 extend from the annular space defined by the mouthpiece 41 to the connecting end of the cartridge 10. The first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 extend through first and second slots 28, 29 in the interior sidewall 27 of the holder 14 and into the two channels 45 on opposite sides of the holder 14.

[0148] Cartridge 10 also includes a cap 30 that partially closes the upstream end of airflow channel 26. Cap 30 includes a plurality of air inlets 32 that allow air to be drawn into airflow channel 26 through the partially closed end.

[0149] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the susceptor assembly 12. Figure 4 includes an arrow 163 representing the passage of airflow over the susceptor element 16 from the upstream end of the susceptor assembly 12 to the downstream end of the susceptor assembly 12. Figure 4 also includes an arrow 165 representing the flow of liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the first and second sides 33, 35 of the wick element 18.

[0150] The susceptor element 16 is defined by a single strip of susceptor material wrapped around the central portion 31 of the core element 18. The core element 18 has a uniform thickness. The strip of susceptor material overlies opposing upper and lower planar surfaces of the core element 18, as well as opposing upstream and downstream surfaces of the core element 18. First and second ends of the strip of susceptor material extend toward each other in opposite directions along the downstream end surface of the core element 18, forming a seam 161 in the susceptor element 16. As a result of the seam 161, the thickness of the center of the susceptor assembly 12, including the central portion 31 of the core element 18 and the susceptor element 16, is greater at the downstream end of the core element 18.

[0151] 5 and 6 show first and second side views of holder 14. First slot 28 has substantially the same cross-sectional shape as first side 33 of core element 18. First slot 28 is sized to receive first side 33 of core element 18 with an interference fit.

[0152] To facilitate insertion of the susceptor assembly 12 into the holder 14 during manufacture of the holder assembly 15, the second slot 29 has a slightly different size and shape compared to the first slot 28. The second slot 29 includes an elongated portion 290 having a shape similar to that of the first slot 28. The height of the elongated portion 290 of the second slot 29 is slightly greater than the height of the first slot 28 to accommodate the combined thickness of the central portion 31 of the core 18 and the susceptor element 16. The second slot 29 also includes an enlarged portion 292 at the downstream end of the elongated portion 290. The enlarged portion 292 accommodates the additional thickness of the susceptor assembly 12 resulting from the seam 161 of the susceptor element 16.

[0153] During manufacture of the holder assembly 15, the first side 33 of the core element 18 is forced through the second slot 29 and into the airflow channel 26. Next, the central portion 31 of the core element 18 and the susceptor element 16 are forced through the second slot 29 and into the airflow channel 26. Finally, the second side 35 of the core element 18 is forced into the second slot 29, and simultaneously, the first side 33 of the core element 18 is forced into the first slot 28.

[0154] Figures 7 and 8 show first and second side views of an alternative holder assembly 1015 that may be used with the cartridge 10 of Figures 1-3. The holder assembly 1015 is shown partially assembled in Figure 7 and fully assembled in Figure 8.

[0155] The holder assembly 1015 includes a holder 1014 and a susceptor assembly 12. The susceptor assembly 12 is identical to the susceptor assembly 12 in FIGS.

[0156] The holder 1014 includes a first holder portion 1017 and a second holder portion 1019. The first and second holder portions 1017, 1019 each include a pair of open-ended slots that form a portion of the first and second slots 28, 29 when the holder assembly 15 is fully assembled. As shown in FIG. 7 , during manufacture, portions of the first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 are inserted into the open-ended slots of the first holder portion 1017. The second holder portion 1019 is then pressed into the first holder portion 1017 such that the remaining portions of the first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 are received in the open-ended slots of the second holder portion 1019, as shown in FIG. 8 . A portion of the first holder portion 1017 is received within the second holder portion 1019 by an interference fit, connecting the second holder portion 1019 to the first holder portion 1017.

[0157] Figures 9 and 10 show two views of a further alternative holder assembly 2015 that may be used with the cartridge 10 of Figures 1-3. The holder assembly 2015 is shown disassembled in Figure 9 and fully assembled in Figure 10.

[0158] The holder assembly 2015 includes a holder 2014 and a susceptor assembly 12. The susceptor assembly 12 is identical to the susceptor assembly 12 in FIGS.

[0159] The holder 2014 includes a first holder portion 2017 and a second holder portion 2019. The first and second holder portions 2017, 2019 each have a semi-tubular shape and define a longitudinal half of each of the first and second slots 28, 29. During manufacture, the first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 are positioned between the first holder portion 2017 and the second holder portion 2019. The first and second holder portions 2017, 2019 then contact each other to form the first and second slots 28, 29 with the first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 positioned therein. A retaining portion 2021 in the form of an annular ring is then pressed onto the ends of the combined first and second holder portions 2017, 2019 to secure the first and second holder portions 2017, 2019 to one another.

[0160] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a further alternative holder assembly 3015 that can be used with the cartridge 10 of Figures 1-3. The holder assembly 3015 includes a holder 3014 and a susceptor assembly 12. The susceptor assembly 12 is identical to the susceptor assembly 12 of Figures 1-6.

[0161] The holder 3014 has a tubular shape, and the first and second slots 28, 29 are open-ended slots extending from an upstream end 3023 of the holder 3014. During manufacture, the first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 are inserted into the first and second slots 28, 29 through the open ends of the first and second slots 28, 29. The first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 are retained within the first and second slots 28, 29. The open ends of the first and second slots 28, 29 may be closed after insertion of the susceptor assembly by the cap 30, as described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0162] Figure 12 shows a side view of yet another alternative holder assembly 4015 that can be used with the cartridge 10 of Figures 1-3. The holder assembly 4015 includes a holder 4014 and a susceptor assembly 12. The susceptor assembly 12 is identical to the susceptor assembly 12 of Figures 1-6. The holder 4014 is a variation of the holder 3014 of Figure 11 and differs by the shape of the open ends of the first and second slots 28, 29. Specifically, the first and second slots 28, 29 each include a tapered insertion portion 4028 to facilitate insertion of the first and second sides 33, 35 of the core element 18 into the first and second slots 28, 29.

[0163] FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of an aerosol generation system 100 according to the present disclosure, with the cartridge 10 separated from the aerosol generation device 60.

[0164] The cartridge 10 is identical to that presented in Figures 1, 2 and 3 and their corresponding descriptions.

[0165] The aerosol generating device 60 includes a generally cylindrical device housing 62 having a connecting end and a distal end opposite the connecting end. A cavity 64 for receiving the connecting end of the cartridge 10 is located at the connecting end of the device 60, and an air inlet 65 is provided through the device housing 62 at the base of the cavity 64 to allow ambient air to be drawn into the cavity 64.

[0166] Apparatus 60 further comprises an induction heating arrangement disposed within apparatus outer housing 62. The induction heating arrangement includes an inductor coil 90, a controller 70, and a power supply 72. Power supply 72 comprises a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery that is rechargeable via an electrical connector (not shown) at the distal end of device 60. Controller 70 is connected to power supply 72 and inductor coil 90 such that controller 70 controls the supply of power to inductor coil 90. Controller 70 is configured to supply alternating current to inductor coil 90.

[0167] A single inductor coil 90 is positioned around the susceptor assembly 12 when the cartridge 10 is received within the cavity 64. The inductor coil 90 is made of copper wire having a circular cross-section and is disposed on a coil-forming element (not shown). The inductor coil 90 is a helical coil that defines a circular cross-section when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation device 60.

[0168] The inductor coil 90 is configured such that when an alternating current is supplied to the inductor coil 90, the inductor coil 90 generates an alternating magnetic field in the region of the susceptor assembly 12 when the cartridge 10 is received within the cavity 64.

[0169] The induction heating arrangement further includes a flux concentrator element 91. The flux concentrator element 91 has a larger radius than the inductor coil 90, and therefore partially surrounds the inductor coil 90. The flux concentrator element 91 is configured to reduce stray power losses from the generated magnetic field.

[0170] FIG. 14 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system 100 of FIG. 13, but with the cartridge 10 coupled to an aerosol generation device 60.

[0171] In operation, when a user draws on mouthpiece 41 of cartridge 10, ambient air is drawn into the base of cavity 64 through air inlet 65 and into cartridge 10 through air inlet 32 in cap 30 of cartridge 10. Ambient air flows from cap 30, through airflow channel 26, over susceptor assembly 12, and through air outlet 38 through cartridge 10.

[0172] The controller 70 controls the supply of power from the power supply 72 to the inductor coil 90 when the system is powered up.

[0173] The controller 72 is coupled to the airflow sensor 63. The airflow sensor 63 is in fluid communication with the path of ambient air drawn through the system by the user. The controller 72 provides power to the inductor coil 90 when the airflow sensor 63 detects a puff by the user onto the cartridge 10.

[0174] When the system 100 is activated, an alternating current is established in the inductor coil 90, which generates an alternating magnetic field within the cavity 64 in which the susceptor assembly 12 is located, heating the susceptor element 16. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate within the channel 45 is drawn through the wick element 18 into the susceptor assembly 12 toward the susceptor element 16. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 in the susceptor element 16 is heated, and volatile compounds from the heated aerosol-forming substrate are released into the airflow channel 26 of the cartridge 10, where they cool and form an aerosol. The aerosol is entrained in air drawn through the airflow channel 26 of the cartridge 10 and is drawn from the cartridge 10 at the air outlet 38 for inhalation by the user.

Claims

1. A holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generating system, wherein the holder assembly is A susceptor assembly, A core element having a planar shape, including a first side portion, a second side portion, and a central portion extending between the first side portion and the second side portion, A susceptor assembly comprising: a susceptor element extending around at least a portion of the central part of the core element; A holder assembly comprising a holder defining an airflow channel, the holder comprising a first slot and a second slot opposite to the first slot, wherein the first side of the core element is received in the first slot and the second side of the core element is received in the second slot, such that the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element are positioned within the airflow channel.

2. The holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first slot has at least one of a different size and shape compared to the second slot.

3. The holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the holder comprises a first holder portion and a second holder portion connected to the first holder portion, and each of the first slot and the second slot is partially defined by the first holder portion and partially defined by the second holder portion.

4. The holder assembly according to claim 3, wherein each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion has an upstream end and a downstream end, and the upstream end of the second holder portion is connected to the downstream end of the first holder portion.

5. The holder assembly according to claim 3, wherein the airflow channel defines a long axis direction extending between a first end of the airflow channel and a second end of the airflow channel, and each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion extends between the first end and the second end.

6. The holder assembly according to claim 3 or 5, wherein each of the first holder portion and the second holder portion has a semi-tubular shape.

7. The holder assembly according to claim 1, wherein the holder has a tubular shape having a first end and a second end, and each of the first slot and the second slot extends from the first end of the holder such that each of the first slot and the second slot is open at the first end of the holder.

8. The holder assembly according to claim 7, wherein each of the first slot and the second slot comprises an insertion portion extending from the first end of the holder and a holding portion extending from the insertion portion.

9. The holder assembly according to claim 8, wherein each insertion portion has a tapered shape.

10. A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, wherein the cartridge is The holder assembly described in claim 1, A cartridge comprising a storage section for a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the storage section is in fluid communication with the first side and the second side of the core element through the first slot and the second slot, respectively.

11. Aerosol generation system, The cartridge according to claim 10, Aerosol generator, A device housing that defines the cavity for receiving at least a portion of the holder assembly, such that the susceptor assembly is positioned within the cavity, An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device comprising an inductor coil disposed within the cavity to generate a fluctuating magnetic field, and

12. A method for manufacturing a holder assembly for a cartridge for an aerosol generating system, wherein the method is A susceptor assembly, A core element having a planar shape, including a first side portion, a second side portion, and a central portion extending between the first side portion and the second side portion, To provide a susceptor assembly comprising a susceptor element extending around at least a portion of the central part of the core element, To define an airflow channel and provide a holder comprising a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot, A method comprising inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and inserting the second side of the core element into the second slot, such that the central portion of the core element and the susceptor element are positioned within the airflow channel.

13. The first slot has at least one of a different size and shape compared to the second slot, and the steps of inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and inserting the second side of the core element into the second slot are as follows: The first side of the core element is pushed into the airflow channel through the second slot, The central portion of the core element and the susceptor element are pushed into the airflow channel through the second slot, The method according to claim 12, comprising pushing the second side of the core element into the second slot and pushing the first side of the core element into the first slot.

14. The holder comprises a first holder portion that partially defines each of the first slot and the second slot, and the holder further comprises a second holder portion that partially defines each of the first slot and the second slot, and the steps of inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and inserting the second side of the core element into the second slot are: Inserting the susceptor assembly into the first holder portion or the second holder portion, The method according to claim 12, comprising connecting the second holder portion to the first holder portion such that the first holder portion and the second holder portion both define the first slot and the second slot, and such that the first side of the core element is received in the first slot and the second side of the core element is received in the second slot.

15. The holder has a tubular shape including a first end and a second end, and each of the first slot and the second slot extends from the first end of the holder such that each of the first slot and the second slot is open at the first end of the holder, and the process of inserting the first side of the core element into the first slot and inserting the second side of the core element into the second slot is, The method according to claim 12, comprising sliding the first side of the core element into the first slot by the open end of the first slot, and simultaneously sliding the second side of the core element into the second slot by the open end of the second slot.

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