Cartridge with sealed reservoir

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol generation device, comprising: a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an inner airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge; a tubular inner unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path; a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the inner unit; and a liquid supply channel disposed between the inner unit and the sleeve element. The inner unit comprises a sealing component comprising the tubular element surrounding a portion of the inner airflow path and a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element. The inner unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position in which the proximal sealing element is disposed to block fluid communication between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel to an open position in which the proximal sealing element moves to open fluid communication between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generation system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge and an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol-generating device for producing an inhalable vapor. Such a device can heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained in a cartridge without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may include a heating arrangement. The heating arrangement may be an induction heating arrangement and may include an induction coil and a susceptor. The susceptor may be part of the device or part of the cartridge.

[0003] When heated to a target temperature, the aerosol-forming substrate vaporizes to form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in solid or liquid form. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be contained within a liquid reservoir or delivered to the heating element via a capillary element.

[0004] The cartridge may comprise a manually removable liquid reservoir sealing means, such as a removable sealing cap or a disposable sealing foil, to avoid leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate prior to use. The cartridge may comprise a pierceable sealing means, such as a pierceable sealing foil. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can reduce or avoid leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can reduce or avoid leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate during transport. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that makes it possible to prevent or reduce oxidation of the aerosol-forming substrate of the cartridge before first use. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that makes it possible to physically separate the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element of the cartridge before first use. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that makes it possible to prevent or reduce oxidation of the heating element of the cartridge before first use. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can provide a longer shelf life. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that makes it possible to prevent or reduce water uptake in the cartridge.

[0006] It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can avoid a separate disposable sealing means. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can avoid a pierceable sealing means. It is desirable to provide a cartridge that has a low environmental impact. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can improve the user experience. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can be handled more comfortably by the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The cartridge may include a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may include an inner airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge may include a tubular inner unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path. The cartridge may include a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the inner unit. The cartridge may include a liquid supply channel disposed between the inner unit and the sleeve element. The inner unit may include a sealing component. The sealing component may include a tubular element surrounding a portion of the inner airflow path. The sealing component may include a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element. The inner unit may be axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position, in which the proximal sealing element is disposed to block fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel, to an open position, in which the proximal sealing element is moved to open fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The cartridge includes a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge includes an inner airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge includes a tubular inner unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path. The cartridge includes a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the inner unit. The cartridge includes a liquid supply channel disposed between the inner unit and the sleeve element. The inner unit includes a sealing component. The sealing component includes a tubular element surrounding a portion of the inner airflow path and a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element. The inner unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a closed position to an open position. In the closed position, the proximal sealing element is disposed to prevent fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. In the open position, the proximal sealing element is moved to open fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0009] A cartridge is provided that can reduce or avoid leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate. A cartridge is provided that can reduce or avoid leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate during transport. A cartridge is provided that can allow for physical separation of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element of the cartridge before first use. A cartridge is provided that can allow for preventing or reducing oxidation of the heating element of the cartridge before first use. A cartridge is provided that can allow for preventing or reducing oxidation of the aerosol-forming substrate of the cartridge before first use. A cartridge is provided that can provide a longer shelf life. A cartridge is provided that can allow for preventing or reducing water uptake in the cartridge. A cartridge is provided that can allow for preventing or reducing water uptake in the aerosol-forming substrate. A cartridge is provided that can avoid separate disposable sealing means. A cartridge is provided that can avoid pierceable sealing means. A cartridge may be provided that has a low environmental impact. A cartridge is provided that can improve the user experience. A cartridge is provided that is more comfortable for users to handle.

[0010] The tubular inner unit may coaxially surround at least a portion of the inner airflow path. The tubular sleeve element may coaxially surround at least a portion of the inner unit. The tubular element of the sealing component may coaxially surround a portion of the inner airflow path.

[0011] The internal unit may include a susceptor element disposed within the internal airflow path. The internal unit may include a tubular heater component disposed distal to the sealing component. The heater component may include the susceptor element of the internal unit. The liquid supply channel may be configured to supply liquid from the liquid reservoir toward the susceptor element.

[0012] The internal unit may include a tubular airflow management component, which may be disposed distal to the heater component.

[0013] The inner unit may comprise a proximal tubular sealing component, an intermediate tubular heater component comprising a susceptor element, and a distal tubular airflow management component, and the sealing component, heater component, and airflow management component may be connected in series along the longitudinal axis.

[0014] A distal end of the heater component may be connected to a proximal end of the airflow management component.A proximal end of the heater component may be connected to a distal end of the sealing component.

[0015] The sealing, heater, and airflow management components may be connected by plug connections. A simple way of assembling the internal unit may be provided by plugging the sealing, heater, and airflow management components into each other.

[0016] The liquid reservoir may surround a portion of the inner airflow path. The liquid reservoir may coaxially surround a portion of the inner airflow path. The liquid reservoir may be provided proximal to the internal unit relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The liquid reservoir may be provided proximal to the sleeve element relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0017] The cartridge may include a mouthpiece. A proximal end portion of the cartridge may be configured as the mouthpiece. The liquid reservoir may be at least partially disposed within the mouthpiece. The liquid reservoir may form part of the mouthpiece. A distal end of the mouthpiece may be attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element. The distal end of the mouthpiece may be permanently attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element. The distal end of the mouthpiece may be attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element by ultrasonic welding.

[0018] The proximal sealing element may be provided as a continuous projection circumferentially disposed around the tubular element of the sealing component.

[0019] The proximal sealing element may be provided as a sealing lip, which may comprise a hook-like shape.

[0020] The proximal sealing element may be provided as an O-ring. The tubular element may include guide means for holding the O-ring in place. The O-ring may exhibit a compression ratio of 15 to 25 percent, preferably 18 to 22 percent, and more preferably about 20 percent when the inner unit is in the shut-off position.

[0021] The proximal sealing element may comprise a polymeric material, preferably an elastomeric material. The elastomeric material may be selected from one or more of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), nitrile, neoprene, ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM rubber), fluorocarbon, silicone, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polypropylene (PP). The elastomeric material may comprise a soft polymer, such as one or both of LDPE and PP. The elastomeric material may comprise a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The TPE may have a hardness of 30 to 90 Shore A.

[0022] The tubular element and the proximal sealing element of the sealing component may be made from the same material.The tubular element and the proximal sealing element of the sealing component may be constructed as a monolithic piece.

[0023] The shut-off position may be the pre-use configuration of an unused cartridge.

[0024] In the shut-off position, the liquid reservoir may be sealed by the proximal sealing element. Leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate may be further reduced or avoided. Exposure of the aerosol-forming substrate to oxygen may be further reduced or avoided. A cartridge with a longer shelf life may be provided.

[0025] In the blocked position, the susceptor element may be fluidly isolated from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the liquid reservoir by the proximal sealing element. Oxidation of the susceptor element of the cartridge prior to first use may be further reduced or prevented prior to first use of the cartridge.

[0026] In the closed position, the proximal sealing element may contact an inner wall of the cartridge to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. In the open position, the proximal sealing element may move away from the inner wall of the cartridge to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The inner wall of the cartridge may be the inner wall of the sleeve element. The inner wall of the cartridge may be the inner wall of the mouthpiece.

[0027] The cartridge may be configured to automatically move the internal unit from the closed position to the open position upon engagement of the cartridge with the aerosol generating device, thereby allowing the cartridge to be handled comfortably by a user.

[0028] The cartridge may comprise a pushing means provided at a distal end of the cartridge. The pushing means may be directly connected to the internal unit. The pushing means may be part of the internal unit. The pushing means may be part of a distal end face of the airflow management component. The cartridge may be configured such that, upon engagement of the cartridge with the aerosol generating device, the pushing means is pushed towards the proximal end of the cartridge, causing the internal unit to move from a closed position in an open position.

[0029] The cartridge may be configured such that the internal unit remains in an open position when the cartridge is removed from the aerosol generating device, which may allow a user to easily visually verify whether a given cartridge is an unused cartridge or a used cartridge.

[0030] The internal unit may remain connected to the remainder of the cartridge in both the closed and open positions.

[0031] The heater component may include a fluid-permeable wall portion arranged to allow movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the inner airflow path. The fluid-permeable wall portion may be arranged to allow movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate toward the susceptor element in the inner airflow path. The fluid-permeable wall portion may be a porous or perforated wall portion. The fluid-permeable wall portion may be formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater component. The susceptor element may be located in the inner airflow path between the two slits.

[0032] The cartridge may include a wick element arranged to move the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel toward the susceptor element. The cartridge may include a wick element arranged to move the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel toward the susceptor element. The heater component may include a wick element. The wick element may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material.

[0033] The fluid-permeable wall portion of the heater component may be formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater component, and the wick element may extend between and through the slits. A central portion of the wick element may be disposed within the inner airflow path and may be sandwiched by susceptor elements. The susceptor elements sandwiching the wick element may describe a U-shape. The susceptor element may comprise two substantially planar portions sandwiching the wick element. The wick element may have a sheet-like shape.

[0034] The airflow management component may comprise a tubular element surrounding a portion of the inner airflow path and a retention element provided at a distal end of the airflow management component, which may help to reduce or avoid leakage of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate or liquid condensate.

[0035] The tubular element of the airflow management component may be a tubular sidewall. The tubular element of the airflow management component may coaxially surround a portion of the inner airflow path.

[0036] The retaining element may comprise a closed distal end wall of the airflow management component. Such a closed distal end wall may provide the retaining element with a particularly good fit for receiving the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from one or both of the susceptor element and the inner airflow path of the cartridge. The retaining element may be shaped as a trough. This may allow the retaining element to collect and receive a larger amount of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0037] The tubular sidewall of the airflow management component may include at least one air inlet for providing air into the inner airflow path, and the at least one air inlet may be spaced from the distal end of the airflow management component.

[0038] The airflow management component may comprise an airflow directing element disposed within the inner airflow path. The airflow directing element may be configured to direct airflow across the susceptor element. The airflow directing element may comprise a divider wall element extending between opposing wall portions of the tubular sidewall of the airflow management component.

[0039] The airflow management component may include a distal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element or on a tubular sidewall of the airflow management component. The distal sealing element may be configured to seal a distal end of the liquid feed channel.

[0040] The distal portion of the cartridge may have a circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The proximal portion of the cartridge may have an elliptical cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The elliptical cross-section may taper toward the proximal end.

[0041] The distal end portion of the cartridge may be configured to engage with an aerosol generating device. The distal end portion of the cartridge may be configured to be inserted into a cavity or heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. The distal end portion of the cartridge may comprise connecting means configured to be releasably connectable to the aerosol generating device. The connecting means may comprise magnetic connecting means.

[0042] The distal end of the cartridge may be configured to engage with an aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may be configured to be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may comprise a connecting means configured to be releasably connectable to the aerosol generating device. The connecting means may be mechanical. The connecting means may comprise one or more springs. The one or more springs may be made of a plastic material, a metal material, or a combination thereof. The connecting means may comprise a magnetic connecting means.

[0043] The proximal end of the cartridge may be a mouth end. The proximal end of the cartridge may comprise a mouthpiece. The proximal end of the cartridge may comprise an air outlet.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The cartridge includes a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge includes an inner airflow path extending between a first end and a second end of the cartridge. The cartridge includes a tubular internal unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path. The cartridge includes a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the internal unit. The cartridge includes a liquid supply channel disposed between the internal unit and the sleeve element. The internal unit includes a sealing component. The sealing component includes a tubular element surrounding a portion of the inner airflow path and a first sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element. The internal unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a closed position to an open position. In the closed position, the first sealing element is disposed to prevent fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. In the open position, the first sealing element is moved to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The first end may be a proximal end. The second end may be a distal end. The first sealing element may be the proximal sealing element.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation system comprising the cartridge and an aerosol generation device described herein. The aerosol generation device comprises a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge. The aerosol generation device comprises one or more inductor coils. The cavity is at least partially surrounded by the one or more inductor coils. The cavity may be at least partially coaxially surrounded by the one or more inductor coils. An aerosol generation system having a compact design is provided.

[0046] The aerosol generating device may include a pin element. The pin element may protrude from a distal end face of the cavity. The pin element may be a spring-loaded pin. The pin element may be a rigid pin. The pin element may be arranged to press against a distal end of the cartridge when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity. The pin element may be arranged to press against a distal end of an internal unit of the cartridge when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity. This may allow the internal unit of the cartridge to move axially relative to the sleeve element to open the liquid supply channel for fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The pin element may be arranged to press a proximal sealing element of the internal unit from a closed position to an open position when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity.

[0047] When purchasing an unused cartridge, the distal end of the internal unit of the unused cartridge may protrude from the sleeve element of the cartridge. In this position, the internal unit may be in a blocking position relative to the sleeve element. This may block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel before use and before the cartridge is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0048] The cavity of the aerosol generating device may be a heated chamber.

[0049] As used herein, the terms "tubular," "tubular unit," "tubular component," "tubular element," and "tubular shape" refer to a three-dimensional object and geometric shape that includes a bottom basal plane, a top basal plane, and a sidewall that encloses a hollow interior, the sidewall being disposed between the bottom and top basal planes. The sidewall extends along a longitudinal axis of the tubular element between the bottom and top basal planes. The longitudinal axis may be perpendicular to one or both of the bottom and top basal planes.

[0050] The bottom base of the tubular element lies in a bottom base plane. The top base of the tubular element lies in a top base plane. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and top base may be circular. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and top base may be non-circular, for example, oval, stadium-shaped, or rectangular. One or both of the bottom base and top base may be open.

[0051] The tubular element may have the shape of a right circular hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a non-circular hollow cylinder, for example an elliptical hollow cylinder or a stadium-shaped hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a hollow cube.

[0052] The longitudinal axis of the tubular element may be disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The central longitudinal axis of the tubular element may be coincident with the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0053] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" relates to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound that can form an aerosol or vapor. Such a volatile compound may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in liquid form. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used interchangeably.

[0054] The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a liquid held in a liquid reservoir of the cartridge. The liquid reservoir may contain the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0055] Preferably, a liquid nicotine or flavor / flavorant-containing aerosol-forming substrate may be used in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

[0056] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine.

[0057] The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former. 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 device. 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). Preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof (e.g., triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, etc.). Preferably, the aerosol former is glycerin.

[0058] As used herein, the term "cartridge" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. For example, a cartridge may be an article that generates an aerosol that is inhalable by a user sucking or puffing on a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the device, or directly at the mouthpiece of the cartridge itself. A cartridge may be disposable. A cartridge may be reusable. A cartridge may be refillable. A cartridge may be insertable into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device.

[0059] As used herein, the term "liquid reservoir" refers to a reservoir containing an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The liquid reservoir may be configured as a container or reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0060] The liquid reservoir may be configured as a replaceable tank or container. The liquid reservoir may be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the liquid reservoir may be substantially cylindrical. The cross section of the liquid reservoir may be, for example, substantially circular, oval, square, or rectangular. The liquid reservoir may form part of a cartridge.

[0061] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that interacts with a cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0062] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generator and a cartridge, in which the aerosol generator and cartridge work together to generate a respirable aerosol.

[0063] The aerosol generating device is preferably portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The device may be an electrically operated smoking device. The device may be a handheld aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may have a total length of 30 mm to 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of 5 mm to 30 mm.

[0064] The aerosol generating device may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The 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.

[0065] The housing may include at least one air inlet. The housing may include multiple air inlets.

[0066] The aerosol generating device may include a heating element, which may include at least one inductor coil for inductively heating one or more susceptors.

[0067] Operation of the heating element may be triggered by a puff detection system. Alternatively, the heating element may be triggered by pressing an on / off button and maintained for the duration of the user's puff. The puff detection system may be provided as a sensor, which may be configured as an airflow sensor for measuring airflow velocity. Airflow velocity is a parameter that characterizes the amount of air per time drawn by the user through the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. The onset of a puff may be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. The onset may also be detected after the user activates a button. The sensor may also be configured as a pressure sensor.

[0068] The aerosol-generating device may include a user interface for activating the aerosol-generating device, such as a button to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating device, or a display that indicates the status of the aerosol-generating device or aerosol-forming substrate.

[0069] The aerosol generating device may include additional components, such as, for example, a charging unit for recharging an on-board power source within the aerosol generating device that is electrically operated or powered.

[0070] As used herein, the term "proximal" refers to the user or mouth end of a cartridge, aerosol generator, system, or part or portion thereof, and the term "distal" refers to the end opposite the proximal end. When referring to a heating chamber, the term "proximal" refers to the area nearest the open end of the cavity, and the term "distal" refers to the area nearest the closed end.

[0071] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe the relative location of a component or portion of a component of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol generating device during use.

[0072] As used herein, the term "airflow path" means a channel suitable for transporting a gaseous medium. The airflow path may be used to transport ambient air. The airflow path may be used to transport an aerosol. The airflow path may be used to transport a mixture of air and an aerosol.

[0073] As used herein, "susceptor" or "susceptor element" means an element that heats when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents induced in the susceptor element, hysteresis losses, or both eddy currents and hysteresis losses. During use, the susceptor element is positioned in thermal contact or thermal proximity with an aerosol-forming substrate received in an aerosol-generating device or cartridge. In this manner, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated by the susceptor, thereby forming an aerosol.

[0074] The susceptor material may be any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The following examples and features regarding susceptors may also apply to the susceptor element of the cartridge. Suitable materials for the susceptor material include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and composites of metallic materials. Preferred susceptor materials include metal or carbon. Advantageously, the susceptor material may include or consist of ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel, ferromagnetic particles, and ferrite. A suitable susceptor material may be or include aluminum. The susceptor material may include more than 5 percent, preferably more than 20 percent, more preferably more than 50 percent, or more than 90 percent ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic, or paramagnetic material. Preferred susceptor materials may be heated to temperatures in excess of 250 degrees Celsius without degradation.

[0075] The susceptor material may be formed from a single layer of material, which may be a steel layer.

[0076] The susceptor material may comprise a non-metallic core having a metallic layer disposed thereon, for example, the susceptor material may comprise a ceramic core or metallic tracks formed on the outer surface of the substrate.

[0077] The susceptor material may be formed from a layer of austenitic steel. One or more layers of stainless steel may be disposed on the layer of austenitic steel. For example, the susceptor material may be formed from a layer of austenitic steel with a layer of stainless steel on each of its upper and lower surfaces. The susceptor element may include a single susceptor material. The susceptor element may include a first susceptor material and a second susceptor material. The first susceptor material may be disposed in intimate physical contact with the second susceptor material. The first and second susceptor materials may be in intimate contact to form a single, indestructible susceptor. In certain embodiments, the first susceptor material is stainless steel and the second susceptor material is nickel. The susceptor element may have a two-layer structure. The susceptor element may be formed from a stainless steel layer and a nickel layer.

[0078] The intimate contact between the first susceptor material and the second susceptor material may be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second susceptor material may be plated, deposited, coated, clad, or welded onto the first susceptor material. Preferred methods include electroplating, galvanizing, and cladding.

[0079] The aerosol generating device may include a power source for powering the heating element. The power source may comprise a battery. The power source may be a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, a lithium-titanate battery, or a lithium-polymer battery). The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for storage of sufficient energy for one or more use experiences. For example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosol for approximately six minutes, or a multiple of six minutes. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activation of the heating element.

[0080] The power source may be a direct current (DC) power source. In one embodiment, the power source is a DC power source having a DC supply voltage in the range of 2.5 volts to 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of 1 ampere to 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power range of 2.5 watts to 45 watts). The aerosol generating device may advantageously comprise a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting the DC current provided by the DC power source to alternating current. The DC / AC converter may comprise a class D, class C, or class E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is provided to the induction coil.

[0081] The power supply may be adapted to supply power to the inductor coil and may be configured to operate at high frequencies. For high frequency operation, a Class E power amplifier is preferred. As used herein, the term "high frequency oscillating current" refers to an oscillating current having a frequency between 500 kilohertz and 30 megahertz. The high frequency oscillating current may have a frequency between 1 megahertz and 30 megahertz, preferably between 1 megahertz and 10 megahertz, and more preferably between 5 megahertz and 8 megahertz.

[0082] In alternative embodiments, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in the lower kHz range, for example 100 kHz to 400 kHz. In embodiments where a class D or class C power amplifier is used, a switching frequency in the lower kHz range is particularly advantageous.

[0083] The aerosol generating device may include a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to the inductor coil. The controller may be electrically connected to the first induction coil and to the second induction coil. The controller may be configured to control the current supplied to the induction coil and therefore the magnetic field strength generated by the induction coil.

[0084] A power supply and a controller may be connected to the inductor coil.

[0085] The controller may be configured to chop the current supply on the input side of the DC / AC converter, so that the power supplied to the inductor coil can be controlled by conventional methods of duty cycle management.

[0086] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0087] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0088] [Figure 1] Figures 1a) to 1c) show the tubular inner unit of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] Figures 2a) and 2b) show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] Figures 3a) and 3b) show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] Figures 4a) and 4b) show the aerosol generation system. [Figure 5] Figures 5a) and 5b) show a heater component of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. [Figure 6] 6a)-6c) show the proximal sealing element. [Figure 7] Figures 7a)-7d) show the proximal sealing element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0089] 1a shows the tubular inner unit 10 in an exploded configuration. The inner unit 10 comprises a proximal tubular sealing component 20, an intermediate tubular heater component 40 with a susceptor element in its hollow interior (not shown), and a distal tubular airflow management component 60.

[0090] The sealing component 20 includes a tubular element 22 and a proximal sealing element 24 disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element 22. The proximal sealing element 24 is provided as a continuous protrusion circumferentially disposed around the tubular element 22 of the sealing component 20. The proximal sealing element 24 is provided as a sealing lip. The tubular element 22 and the proximal sealing element 24 of the sealing component 20 are formed as a monolithic piece.

[0091] Airflow management component 60 includes a tubular sidewall 62 and a distal sealing element 64 provided as an O-ring disposed on the outer surface of tubular sidewall 62. The O-ring is axially held in position between first and second protrusions 66, 67 of airflow management component 60.

[0092] Figure 1b shows the tubular inner unit 10 of Figure 1a in an assembled configuration. The sealing component 20, heater component 40, and airflow management component 60 are connected in series along the longitudinal axis 12. The distal end of the heater component 40 is plugged into the proximal end of the airflow management component 60. The proximal end of the heater component 40 is plugged into the distal end of the sealing component 20. The plugging action is indicated by the arrows in Figure 1a.

[0093] 1c shows the assembled tubular inner unit 10 of FIG. 1b in cross-section. The airflow management component 60 includes an air inlet 68 that allows air to enter the hollow tubular interior of the tubular inner unit 10. The inner airflow path 14 is surrounded by the tubular inner unit 10. The inner airflow path 14 passes through the susceptor 42 of the heater component 40.

[0094] Figure 2a shows the cartridge 100 in an exploded configuration. The cartridge 100 comprises the inner unit 10 of Figures 1a to 1c. The cartridge 100 comprises a tubular sleeve element 80. The cartridge 100 comprises a mouthpiece 90.

[0095] Figure 2b shows the cartridge 100 of Figure 2a in a cross-sectional view in an assembled configuration. A tubular sleeve element 80 surrounds a portion of the inner unit 10. A liquid supply channel 82 is formed by the empty space between the inner unit 10 and the sleeve element 80. A distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 is configured to close and seal the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82.

[0096] The mouthpiece 90 includes a liquid reservoir 92 that surrounds a portion of the inner airflow path 14. The liquid reservoir 92 is provided by an empty space between an inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90 that surrounds the inner airflow path 14 and an outer tubular wall portion 98 of the mouthpiece 90 that surrounds the liquid reservoir 92. A proximal end 94 of the mouthpiece 90 includes an air outlet. A distal end 99 of the mouthpiece 90 is attached to the proximal end 84 of the sleeve element 80. For example, permanent attachment may be achieved by ultrasonic welding.

[0097] 3a shows a cartridge 100 that is primarily identical to the cartridge 100 of FIGS. 2a and 2b, except that the air inlet 68 is located in a different position. In the embodiment of FIG. 3a, the air inlet 68 is located in the tubular side wall 62 of the airflow management component 60. Thus, the air inlet 68 is located spaced apart from the distal end of the airflow management component 60. To this end, the airflow management component 60 comprises a retention element 70 provided at the distal end of the airflow management component 60, the retention element 70 comprising a closed distal end wall of the airflow management component 60.

[0098] The inner unit 10 is axially movable relative to the sleeve element 80 from a blocking position shown in Figure 3a, in which the proximal sealing element 24 is arranged to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82, to an open position shown in Figure 3b, in which the proximal sealing element 24 moves to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. In the blocking position shown in Figure 3a, the proximal sealing element 24 is in contact with the inner wall of the sleeve element 80, blocking the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82.

[0099] In the open position shown in Figure 3b, the proximal sealing element 24 moves away from the inner wall, opening the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. In the open position shown in Figure 3b, a liquid passageway 16 is formed, allowing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to move from the liquid storage portion 92 into the liquid supply channel 82. The distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 seals the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82, preventing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from exiting the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82 in the open position.

[0100] The distal portion of the inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90 may slide within the proximal portion of the tubular element 22 of the sealing component 20 when the inner unit 10 moves axially from the blocked position shown in FIG. 3 a to the open position shown in FIG. 3 b.

[0101] The heater component 40 includes a fluid-permeable wall portion 44 disposed to permit movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel 82 into the inner airflow path 14 and toward the susceptor element 42 .

[0102] 4a and 4b show cross-sectional views of an aerosol generation system comprising a cartridge, such as cartridge 100 of FIGS. 2 and 3, and an aerosol generation device 200. The aerosol generation device 200 comprises a heating chamber 210 arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge 100. The heating chamber 210 is at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil 220.

[0103] The aerosol generating device 200 includes a pin element 230 protruding from the distal end face of the heating chamber 210. The pin element 230 is arranged to push the inner unit 10 of the cartridge 100 from the closed position to the open position when the distal portion of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 210. Figure 4b shows a configuration in which the distal portion of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 210 and the inner unit 10 is in the open position. As a result, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can move toward the susceptor 42.

[0104] Further, as shown in FIG. 4b, when the distal portion of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 210, the susceptor 42 of the cartridge 100 is positioned within the heating chamber 210, whereby an alternating current applied to the inductor coil 220 induces a current within the susceptor 42, creating an alternating magnetic field that heats the susceptor 42.

[0105] Ambient air may enter the aerosol generation system through a gap between the cartridge 100 and the aerosol generation device 200. Alternatively, or additionally, the aerosol generation device 200 may include an air inlet (not shown) in fluid communication with the heating chamber 210.

[0106] Airflow path 240 is shown in Figure 4b by a dotted line. A liquid aerosol-forming substrate located in proximity to or in contact with the heated susceptor 42 may volatilize due to the high temperature in the area of the susceptor 42. The volatilized material may be entrained by the airflow and may travel downstream along airflow path 240 and through the air outlet at the proximal end 94 of the cartridge 100, and the ripened aerosol may be inhaled by a user.

[0107] The distal end of the cartridge 100 may be provided with connecting means (not shown), e.g., magnetic connecting means, configured to be releasably connectable to the aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 may be provided with corresponding connecting means (not shown).

[0108] 5a and 5b show an embodiment of a heater component 40 in a perspective view (FIG. 4a) and a front view (FIG. 4b). A fluid-permeable wall portion 44 is formed by two slits in opposing sidewalls of the tubular heater component 40. A wick element 46 extends between and through the slits. The wick element 46 is disposed to transfer liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel 82 to the susceptor element 42 when the heater component 40 is disposed within the sleeve element 80. A central portion of the wick element 46 within the inner airflow path 14 is sandwiched by the susceptor element 42, which describes a U-shape.

[0109] Figure 6a features the cartridge 100 of Figure 3a in the blocked position. Figures 6b and 6c show an enlarged portion of the cartridge 100, indicated by the dotted rectangle in Figure 6a, showing the proximal sealing element 24 in more detail. The proximal sealing element 24 is provided as a sealing lip circumferentially disposed around the tubular element 22 of the sealing component 20. The sealing lip comprises a hook-like shape that presses against the inner wall of the sleeve element 80 to fluidly isolate the liquid storage portion 92 from the liquid supply channel 82 in the blocked position.

[0110] 6b and 6c show that the hook-like shape has two different main tilt angles relative to the longitudinal axis 12. FIG.

[0111] 6b shows a first major tilt angle 26 provided on the hook-shaped base. The first major tilt angle 26 may be between 50 and 90 degrees, preferably between 60 and 80 degrees, and more preferably between 65 and 75 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 12. The first major tilt angle 26 improves the transfer of liquid aerosol-forming substrates from the liquid storage portion 92 to the liquid feed channel 82 in the open position.

[0112] The hook-like shape includes a fillet radius that forms a smooth edge between the first and second major slope angles 26, 28. The smooth edge may further improve the transfer of liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage portion 92 to the liquid feed channel 82 in the open position.

[0113] 6c shows a second major slope angle 28 provided on the hook-like shaped tip. The second major slope angle 28 may be between 1 and 20 degrees, preferably between 5 and 15 degrees, and more preferably between 7 and 13 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 12. The second major slope angle 28 provides a tight interface between the proximal sealing element 24 and the inner wall of the sleeve element 80 in the blocking position, fluidly isolating the liquid storage portion 92 from the liquid supply channel 82.

[0114] 7a-7d show a proximal sealing element 24 comprising an elastomeric material.

[0115] FIG. 7a lists an enlarged portion of the cartridge 100 shown in FIGS. 6b and 6c. A further enlargement is also shown, indicated by the dotted rectangle and arrow. The further enlargement shows, with two lines and two arrows, the relaxation distance of the sealing element 24 in the absence of the inner wall of the sleeve element 80. The relaxation distance reflects the degree to which the elastic sealing element 24 is compressed when inserted into the sleeve element 80, as shown in FIG. 7a. The relaxation distance is selected so that the sealing element 24 presses sufficiently hard against the inner wall of the sleeve element 80 to fluidly isolate the liquid storage portion 92 from the liquid supply channel 82 in the closed position. At the same time, the relaxation distance is selected so that the sealing element 24 does not press too hard against the inner wall of the sleeve element 80, providing a sufficiently low friction force to allow movement from the closed position to the open position. The relaxation distance in the embodiment of FIG. 7a may be 0.24 to 0.26 millimeters, preferably about 0.25 millimeters.

[0116] Figure 7b shows an embodiment similar to the embodiment of Figure 7a. However, the embodiment of Figure 7b has a thicker sealing lip to form the sealing element 24. The relaxation distance in the embodiment of Figure 7b may be 0.26 mm to 0.28 mm, preferably about 0.27 mm.

[0117] Figure 7c shows an embodiment similar to the embodiment of Figure 7a, except that the embodiment of Figure 7b has a solid sealing lip without a hook-like shape to form the sealing element 24. The relaxation distance in the embodiment of Figure 7c may be between 0.16 mm and 0.18 mm, preferably about 0.17 mm.

[0118] FIG. 7d shows an embodiment in which the sealing element 24 is not formed as a sealing lip, but is provided as an O-ring 30. The tubular element 22 is provided with guiding means in the form of guide rails 32 for holding the O-ring 30 in place. The distance indicated by the two arrows in the further enlarged portion of FIG. 7d may be between 0.7 and 0.9 millimeters, preferably about 0.8 millimeters. The O-ring 30 may have a material thickness of about 1 millimeter when in a relaxed configuration. The O-ring 30 may exhibit a compression ratio of 15 to 25 percent in the closed position, preferably between 18 and 22 percent, and more preferably about 20 percent.

[0119] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0120] Example E1: 1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, comprising: a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an inner airflow path extending between the proximal and distal ends of the cartridge; a tubular inner unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path; a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the inner unit; a liquid supply channel disposed between the inner unit and the sleeve element; the internal unit comprises a sealing component, the sealing component comprising a tubular element surrounding a portion of the internal airflow path and a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element; and A cartridge in which the internal unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position in which the proximal sealing element is arranged to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel, to an open position in which the proximal sealing element moves to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. Example E2: The cartridge of example E1, wherein the liquid reservoir surrounds a portion of the inner airflow path. Example E3: The cartridge of examples E1-E2, wherein the proximal end of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece. Example E4: The cartridge of example E3, wherein the liquid storage portion is at least partially disposed within the mouthpiece. Example E5: The cartridge of example E4, wherein the distal end of the mouthpiece is attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element, preferably by ultrasonic welding. Example E6: The cartridge of example E4 or example E5, wherein in the blocking position, the proximal sealing element contacts an inner wall of the cartridge to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. Example E7: The cartridge of example E6, wherein in the open position, the proximal sealing element moves away from the inner wall of the cartridge to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. Example E8: The cartridge of any of embodiments E1-E7, wherein the cartridge is configured to automatically move the internal unit from a blocked position to an open position upon engaging the cartridge with the aerosol generating device. Example E9: A cartridge as described in Example E8, wherein the cartridge comprises an extrusion means provided at the distal end, the extrusion means being directly connected to or part of the internal unit, and the cartridge is configured such that when the cartridge is engaged with the aerosol generating device, the internal unit is moved from a blocking position in an open position by pushing the extrusion means toward the proximal end of the cartridge. Example E10: The cartridge of any of embodiments E1-E9, wherein the proximal sealing element is provided as a continuous protrusion circumferentially disposed around the tubular element of the sealing component. Example E11: The cartridge of example E10, wherein the proximal sealing element is provided as a sealing lip. Example E12: The cartridge of example E11, wherein the sealing lip comprises a hook-like shape. Example E13: The cartridge of example E10, wherein the proximal sealing element is provided as an O-ring, preferably the tubular element comprising guiding means for holding the O-ring in place. Example E14: The cartridge of example E13, wherein the O-ring exhibits a compression ratio of 15 percent to 25 percent, preferably 18 percent to 22 percent, and more preferably about 20 percent when the inner unit is in the shutoff position. Example E15: The cartridge of any of embodiments E1-E14, wherein the proximal sealing element comprises a polymeric material, preferably an elastomeric material. Example E16: The cartridge of example E15, wherein the proximal sealing element comprises an elastomeric material, the elastomeric material being selected from one or more of PTFE, nitrile, neoprene, EPDM rubber, and fluorocarbon. Example E17: The cartridge of any of embodiments E1-E16, wherein the tubular element and the proximal sealing element of the sealing component are made from the same material, preferably configured as a monolithic piece. Example E18: The cartridge of any of embodiments E1-E17, wherein the cartridge is configured such that the internal unit remains in an open position when the cartridge is removed from the aerosol generation device. Example E19: The cartridge of any of embodiments E1-E18, wherein the internal unit remains coupled to the remainder of the cartridge in both the blocked and open positions. Example E20: A cartridge described in any of Examples E1 to E19, wherein the internal unit comprises a tubular heater component disposed distal to the sealing component, the heater component comprising a fluid-permeable wall portion disposed to permit movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the inner airflow path. Example E21: The cartridge of embodiment E20, wherein the fluid permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater element. Example E22: The cartridge of any of Examples E1-E21, wherein the internal unit comprises a susceptor element disposed in the inner airflow path, preferably the susceptor element being part of the heater component according to Example E20 or Example E21. Example E23: The cartridge of example E22, comprising a wick element arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel to the susceptor element. Example E24: The cartridge of example E23, wherein the core element comprises one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material. Example E25: The cartridge of any of Examples E1-E24, wherein a distal portion of the cartridge has a circular cross-section and a proximal portion of the cartridge has an elliptical cross-section, preferably the elliptical cross-section narrowing towards the proximal end. Example E26: A cartridge described in any of Examples E1 to E25, wherein the distal end portion of the cartridge is configured to engage with an aerosol generating device, preferably wherein the distal end portion of the cartridge is configured to be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol generating device, preferably wherein the cavity is a heating chamber. Example E27: The cartridge of any of embodiments E1-E26, wherein a distal end of the cartridge comprises a connecting means configured to be releasably connectable to an aerosol generating device. Example E28: 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge according to any one of Examples E1 to E27, An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generation device having a heating chamber arranged to receive at least a distal portion of a cartridge, the heating chamber being at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil. Example E29: An aerosol generating system as described in Example E28, wherein the aerosol generating device has a pin element protruding from the distal end face of the heating chamber and arranged to push the proximal sealing element of the internal unit from a blocked position to an open position when the cartridge is inserted into the heating chamber. Example E30: The aerosol generation system of example E29, wherein the pin element is a spring-loaded pin or a rigid pin.

Claims

1. 1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, comprising: a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an inner airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge; a tubular inner unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path; a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the inner unit; a liquid supply channel disposed between the inner unit and the sleeve element; the internal unit comprises a sealing component, the sealing component comprising a tubular element surrounding a portion of the inner airflow path and a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element; and A cartridge wherein the internal unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position in which the proximal sealing element is arranged to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel to an open position in which the proximal sealing element moves to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

2. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the liquid reservoir surrounds a portion of the inner airflow path.

3. 3. A cartridge as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the proximal end portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece, the liquid storage portion is at least partially disposed within the mouthpiece, and preferably the distal end of the mouthpiece is attached to the proximal end of the sleeve element, preferably by ultrasonic welding.

4. In the blocking position, the proximal sealing element contacts an inner wall of the cartridge to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel, preferably A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein in the open position, the proximal sealing element moves away from the inner wall of the cartridge to open a fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

5. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the cartridge is configured to automatically move the internal unit from the closed position to the open position when the cartridge is engaged with the aerosol generating device; the cartridge comprises an ejection means provided at the distal end; the extrusion means is directly connected to or is part of the internal unit; The cartridge is configured such that when the cartridge is engaged with the aerosol generating device, the internal unit moves from the blocking position to the open position by pushing the pushing means toward the proximal end of the cartridge.

6. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the proximal sealing element is provided as a continuous protrusion arranged circumferentially around the tubular element of the sealing component.

7. The cartridge of claim 6 , wherein the proximal sealing element is provided as a sealing lip.

8. The cartridge of claim 7 , wherein the sealing lip comprises a hook-like shape.

9. 7. A cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the proximal sealing element is provided as an O-ring, preferably the tubular element comprising guiding means for holding the O-ring in place.

10. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the proximal sealing element comprises a polymeric material, preferably an elastomeric material.

11. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the tubular element and the proximal sealing element of the sealing component are made from the same material, preferably constructed as a monolithic part.

12. the inner unit comprises a tubular heater component disposed distal to the sealing component, the heater component comprising a fluid-permeable wall portion disposed to allow movement of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the inner airflow path, preferably A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater element.

13. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the internal unit comprises a susceptor element disposed in the inner airflow path, preferably the susceptor element being part of a heater component according to claim 12.

14. 14. The cartridge of claim 13, comprising a wick element arranged to transfer liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element.

15. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 14; An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generation device having a heating chamber arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge, the heating chamber being at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil.

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