HEATER ASSEMBLY FOR AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICES HAVING IMPROVED CONTACT WITH WICKING MATERIAL - Patent application

Abstract

A heater assembly (300) for an aerosol generating device. The heater assembly (300) comprises a frame (320) having an opening (321) in a first plane. The heater assembly (300) comprises a heating element (330) secured to the frame (320). The heater assembly (300) comprises a first electrical contact (391) in electrical contact with a first end of the heating element (330). The heater assembly (300) comprises a second electrical contact (392) in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element (330). The heating element (330) provides a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact (391) and the second electrical contact (392). The heating element (330) comprises a plurality of heating portions (331) and at least one mounting portion (332) positioned between the heating portions (331) along the continuous electrical path. Each heating portion 331 is within or over an opening 321 and is separated from the frame 320 by at least one mounting portion 332. Each heating portion 331 includes a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device or cartridge, an aerosol generating device comprising the heater assembly, an aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge and the aerosol generating device, and a cartridge comprising the heater assembly. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol generation systems configured to generate inhalable aerosols from aerosol-forming substrates are known in the art. Some prior aerosol generation systems include an aerosol generating device that can be coupled to a cartridge. A typical cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a heater assembly, which includes a heating element. The aerosol-forming substrate is often a liquid. In this case, the cartridge may further include a wicking material in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate and in contact with the heating element. The wicking material is configured to transport the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the heating element. The heating element is configured to vaporize the liquid aerosol-forming substrate during use. For example, the heating element may be resistively heated. An airflow is provided past the heating element to entrain the generated vapor. The vapor condenses within the airflow, forming an aerosol. The aerosol can then be inhaled by a user. The aerosol generating device typically includes a power source configured to power the heating element when the device and cartridge are coupled together via an electrical connector.

[0003] In this type of aerosol generation system, the heating element is fixed to the heater assembly, aerosol generator, cartridge, or other component of the aerosol generation system, depending on the location of the heating element. This provides stability to the heating element and may minimize damage to the heating element during use. However, because the heating element is at a high temperature during use, heat may be transferred from the heating element to the heater assembly, aerosol generator, cartridge, or other component of the aerosol generation system. This heat transfer may damage these other components. Furthermore, this heat transfer may cause the aerosol generator, cartridge, or other component of the aerosol generation system to feel hot to the touch during use, which may be detrimental to the user's overall experience.

[0004] It would therefore be desirable to provide heater assemblies, aerosol generators, cartridges, and aerosol generation systems that minimize heat transfer between the heating element and other components of the heater assembly, aerosol generator, cartridge, or aerosol generation system during use.

[0005] Furthermore, in this type of aerosol generating system, the heating element is typically coupled to a wicking material that conveys the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the heating element. Reliable physical contact between the heating element and the wicking material is beneficial for reliable aerosol generation. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device is provided. The heater assembly may include a heating element, a first electrical contact in electrical contact with a first end of the heating element, and a second electrical contact in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element. The heating element may provide a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. The heating element may include multiple heating portions. The heating element may further include at least one mounting portion. The at least one mounting portion may be positioned between the heating portions along the continuous electrical path. The heating element may include a frame including an opening in a first plane, and the heating element is fixed to the frame. Each heating portion may be within or over the opening. Each heating portion may be separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion. At least one heating portion may include a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. At least one heating portion may include a finite radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. Each heating portion may include a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. The at least one heating portion may extend convexly relative to a direction in which the suction element can be coupled to the heater assembly. The at least one heating portion may have at least two sections extending in at least two different directions that are not parallel to the first plane. The at least one heating portion may extend arcuately outward from the first plane. The at least one heating portion may extend dome-shaped outward from the first plane. The at least one heating portion may curve outward from the first plane. The at least one heating portion may extend arcuately outward from the first plane. The at least one heating portion may include a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane, such that when the at least one heating portion is reversibly deformed by a force to a position parallel to the first plane, the reaction force exerted by the at least one heating portion is greater at the center of the at least one heating portion than at the periphery of the at least one heating portion. Advantageously, when the aerosol generating device is coupled to the cartridge such that the heater assembly is coupled to the suction element, the heating element may provide reliable physical contact with the surface of the suction element.Furthermore, when the aerosol generating device is coupled to the cartridge such that the heater assembly is coupled to the suction element, the heating element may exert a greater force at the center of the connecting surface of the suction element than at the periphery of the connecting surface of the suction element. In some embodiments, for example, when the heating element includes an additional bend out of the first plane, a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane may ensure that the pressure exerted by the heating element on the connecting surface of the suction element is uniform across the connecting surface, which may be beneficial.

[0007] Each heating segment may include the same radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. Alternatively, each heating segment may include a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane selected from a plurality of radii of curvature. For example, each heating segment may include a different radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane.

[0008] The heater assembly may be configured such that when the suction element is coupled to the heater assembly, the heating element exerts a non-uniform force on the mating surface of the suction element, for example, the heating element may exert a greater force at the center of the mating surface of the suction element than at the periphery of the mating surface of the suction element.

[0009] The heating element may comprise an elastic material. Advantageously, when the aerosol generating device is coupled to the cartridge such that the heater assembly is coupled to the suction element, the heating element may therefore undergo elastic deformation instead of fracturing.

[0010] The cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path. Advantageously, heat transfer from the heating element to the frame is therefore reduced. The frame may therefore experience lower temperatures during use.

[0011] The plurality of heating portions and the at least one mounting portion may all be integrally formed, which may advantageously simplify manufacturing and increase the robustness of the heating element.

[0012] Each mounting portion may be directly connected to exactly two heating portions. Each heating portion may be directly connected to exactly two mounting portions, or to exactly one mounting portion and either the first electrical contact or the second electrical contact. Such an arrangement may advantageously provide an electrical path that is easy to manufacture, ensuring that the cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path.

[0013] Each heating portion may have a first width in a first direction and each attachment portion may have a second width in the first direction, the second width being greater than the first width. Advantageously, this provides an arrangement that ensures that the cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each attachment portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path, and is simple to manufacture by common manufacturing methods such as laser cutting, water jet cutting, or chemical etching stamping.

[0014] Each heating portion may extend perpendicular to a first direction. The first direction may lie in a first plane. The first direction may be perpendicular to the direction of a continuous electrical path, if the direction of the continuous electrical path is defined by each heating portion. The ratio of the first width to the second width may be 1 / 20 to 1 / 2. Preferably, the ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 1 / 4. The first width may be 0.1 mm to 2 mm. Preferably, the first width is 0.2 mm to 1 mm. More preferably, the first width is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0015] The heating element may have a thickness in at least one direction perpendicular to the first direction. The thickness may be between 0.02 millimeters and 0.5 millimeters. Preferably, the thickness is between 0.05 millimeters and 0.3 millimeters. Such dimensions may advantageously provide a heating element that is robust and capable of providing sufficient energy to heat the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating device is a handheld device.

[0016] The heater assembly may include a gap between adjacent heating portions. The gap may have a gap width. The gap width may be in a first direction. The gap width may be between 0.1 millimeters and 1 millimeter. Preferably, the gap width is between 0.2 millimeters and 0.5 millimeters.

[0017] The plurality of heating portions may comprise between 2 and 20 heating portions. Preferably, the plurality of heating portions comprises between 3 and 9 heating portions. Even more preferably, the plurality of heating portions comprises 6 heating portions. Preferably, the plurality of heating portions comprises an even number of heating portions. Advantageously, an even number of heating portions means that the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact can be positioned on the same side of the heater assembly.

[0018] The electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of the plurality of heating portions may be greater than the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of at least one mounting portion. The electrical resistance per unit length may be measured by measuring the electrical resistance across each of the heating portions or mounting portions and dividing the electrical resistance by the length of each of the heating portions or mounting portions in the direction of the conductive path. The direction of the conductive path may be curved, for example, if the mounting portions are curved. The electrical resistance of each heating portion may be higher than the electrical resistance of each mounting portion.

[0019] The heater assembly may be configured such that when a non-zero voltage is applied across the heating element between the first and second electrical contacts, the temperature of the plurality of heating portions increases above the temperature of the at least one mounting portion. The heater assembly may be configured such that when a non-zero current is applied through the heating element between the first and second electrical contacts, the temperature of the plurality of heating portions increases above the temperature of the at least one mounting portion. In these cases, the temperature of the plurality of heating portions and the temperature of the at least one mounting portion may be an average temperature over the length of each of the plurality of heating portions of the at least one mounting portion.

[0020] The heating element may be serpentine-shaped. The heating element may be serpentine-shaped within the first plane. The heating element may be serpentine-shaped when protruding above the first plane. Advantageously, such an arrangement allows many heating portions to be positioned or packaged within a reduced area. Furthermore, the serpentine arrangement may be fluid-permeable. The heater assembly may include spaces between heating portions of the heating element. Thus, steam generated by the heating element may pass through the serpentine heating element.

[0021] The heating element may include stainless steel. The heating element may include a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material. Advantageously, the skin depth of the ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material decreases when the frequency of the alternating current applied to the heating element increases. The electrical resistance of the heating element increases as a function of frequency. Therefore, the use of ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic tracks may allow for an increase in its electrical resistance. This allows for more localized heat generation without reducing the thickness of the heating element and compromising its mechanical strength.

[0022] The heating element may be coated with a corrosion-resistant material. The heating element may be coated with a ceramic material. Advantageously, this may extend the life of the heating element and heater assembly. This is particularly relevant because the heater assembly may be configured to be reversibly coupled and decoupled from the suction element, thereby making the heater assembly reusable.

[0023] The heating element may be substantially flat, which may advantageously simplify the manufacture of the heating element.

[0024] The total resistance of the heating element may be between 0.1 ohms and 5 ohms, preferably between 0.2 ohms and 1.5 ohms.

[0025] The heating element and the first and second electrical contacts may be integrally formed. The heating element and the first and second electrical contacts may be formed from the same material. Advantageously, these features may simplify manufacturing of the heating element.

[0026] The opening may be substantially square or rectangular. Alternatively, the opening may be substantially circular. Advantageously, such a shape of the opening may ensure that the suction element is easily aligned with the opening when the aerosol generating device is coupled to the cartridge. Furthermore, such a shape may be easy to manufacture for the opening or the corresponding suction element.

[0027] The frame may be electrically insulating. In particular, the frame may have a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mK or less. This may advantageously ensure that the electrical path through the heating element is well defined as a single electrical path, minimizing current flow through the frame and therefore resistive heating of the frame.

[0028] The frame may comprise a high temperature polymer. For example, the frame may comprise polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Alternatively, the frame may comprise a ceramic. For example, the frame may comprise alumina. In another embodiment, the frame may comprise zirconia.

[0029] The frame may be overmolded over a section of the heating element. For example, the frame may be overmolded over a mounting section of the at least one mounting portion. Additionally or alternatively, the frame may be overmolded over at least a mounting section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact. Advantageously, the overmolding may provide a robust connection between the frame and the heating element.

[0030] The frame may include an upper element and a lower element. The upper element and the lower element may include press-fit elements such that the upper element and the lower element can be coupled together by a press fit. Alternatively, the upper element and the lower element may include snap-fit ​​elements such that the upper element and the lower element can be coupled together by a snap fit. Alternatively, the upper element and the lower element may include fastening elements such that the upper element and the lower element can be coupled together by fastening. Advantageously, a frame including an upper element and a lower element may provide simplified manufacturing and a modular system in which, for example, the heating element may be replaced. At least a mounting section of the at least one mounting portion may be located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are coupled together. Additionally or alternatively, at least a mounting section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact may be located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are coupled together. Advantageously, such an arrangement ensures that the heating element does not contact the frame.

[0031] The opening may have a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 1 to 1000 square millimeters. Preferably, the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 2 to 200 square millimeters. More preferably, the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 4 to 50 square millimeters.

[0032] The heating element may further comprise at least one insulating portion. Each mounting portion may be separated from the frame by one insulating portion. Advantageously, the insulating portion may further reduce the amount of heat transferred from the plurality of heating portions to the frame through the at least one mounting portion.

[0033] Each heating section may be connected to the frame via at least one insulating section.

[0034] The plurality of heating portions, at least one mounting portion, and at least one insulating portion may all be integrally formed, which advantageously simplifies manufacturing as the heating element can be produced by common manufacturing methods such as laser cutting, water jet cutting, or chemical etching stamping.

[0035] Each insulating portion may not be directly attached to any heating portion. There may be an attachment portion intermediate each insulating portion and any heating portion. Each insulating portion may be located outside the continuous electrical path. For example, each insulating portion may be located outside the continuous electrical path, such that the insulating portion experiences a lower temperature rise due to direct resistance heating than both the temperature rise of each attachment portion and the temperature rise of each heating portion.

[0036] Each insulating portion may have a third width in the first direction. The third width may be smaller than the second width. The ratio of the third width to the second width may be 1 / 10 to 2 / 3. Preferably, the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 5 to 1 / 3. The third width may be approximately equal to the first width. Advantageously, this provides an insulating portion that simplifies manufacturing while reducing the amount of heat transferred from the heating portion to the frame.

[0037] The thermal resistance across each mounting portion between adjacent heating portions and adjacent insulating portions may be lower than the thermal resistance across each insulating portion between adjacent mounting portions and the frame. Thermal resistance may be defined as the temperature difference by which an object or material resists heat flow. The thermal resistance (R) across a mounting portion between adjacent heating portions and adjacent insulating portions may be defined as:

number

[0038] where x is the length of each attachment portion measured between the adjacent heated portion and the adjacent insulated portion in the direction of the thermal path, A is the cross-sectional area of ​​each attachment portion in the direction of the thermal path between the adjacent heated portion and the adjacent insulated portion, and k is the thermal conductivity of each attachment portion, which is a material constant.

[0039] The thermal resistance across each insulation section between adjacent mounting portions and the frame can be defined using the same formula, where x is the length of each insulation section measured between the adjacent mounting portion and the frame in the direction of the heat path, A is the cross-sectional area of ​​each insulation section in the direction of the heat path between the adjacent mounting portion and the frame, and k is the thermal conductivity of each insulation section, which is a material constant.

[0040] The frame may have an upper surface parallel to the first plane. At least a first portion of the heating element may be recessed a first distance from the upper surface of the frame. The first distance may be 0.2 mm to 5 mm. Advantageously, such an arrangement may protect at least the first portion of the heating element from damage, particularly when the heating element is not covered on the outer surface of the aerosol generating device. A mounting section of at least one mounting portion may be recessed a first distance from the upper surface of the frame.

[0041] At least a second portion of the heating element may coincide with the plane formed by the upper surface of the frame. Advantageously, such an arrangement means that the protrusion required for the suction element is minimized, and the suction element is configured to contact the heating element when a cartridge including the suction element is coupled to an aerosol generating device including the heater assembly. At least a second portion of the heating element may coincide with the plane formed by the upper surface of the frame. At least a second portion of the heating element may extend beyond the plane formed by the upper surface of the frame. A radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane may be applied to the second portion of the heating element.

[0042] Alternatively, the entire heating element may be recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame. Advantageously, as noted above, such an arrangement may protect the entire heating element from damage, particularly if the heating element is not covered on the outer surface of the aerosol generating device.

[0043] The frame may have a lower surface parallel to the first plane. At least a first portion of the heating element may be recessed a second distance from the lower surface of the frame. The second distance may be 0.2 mm to 5 mm.

[0044] The mounting section of the at least one mounting portion may be recessed a second distance from the underside of the frame. Advantageously, such an arrangement may protect the at least one mounting portion from damage, particularly during handling of the heater assembly and aerosol generating device assembly.

[0045] The heater assembly may further include a support structure. The frame may at least partially surround the support structure. The support structure may include a support structure opening. The support structure opening may be in a first plane. The support structure opening may be substantially circular. The support structure opening may be substantially square or rectangular. The support structure opening may be substantially oval in shape. The support structure may include a high-temperature resistant polymer. For example, the support structure may include polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Alternatively, the support structure may include a ceramic. For example, the support structure may include alumina. In another example, the support structure may include zirconia. The support structure may include the same material as the frame. Alternatively, the support structure may include a different material than the frame. The support structure opening may have a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 1 square millimeter to 1000 square millimeters. The support structure opening may have a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 2 square millimeters to 200 square millimeters. The opening in the support structure preferably has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 4 square millimeters and 50 square millimeters.

[0046] At least a portion of the heating element may be within the opening in the support structure. In particular, multiple heating elements may be within the opening in the support structure. At least a portion of the heating element may be above the opening in the support structure. In particular, multiple heating elements may be above the opening in the support structure. Advantageously, such features allow the aerosol to be easily transported from the heating element where it is generated to the user.

[0047] The support structure may comprise a surface of the upper support structure parallel to the first plane. At least a portion of the heating element may be flush with the surface of the upper support structure. The plurality of heating portions may be substantially flush with the surface of the upper support structure. Advantageously, such an arrangement means that the protrusion required for the suction element is minimized, and the suction element is configured to contact the heating element when a cartridge including the suction element is coupled to an aerosol generation device including the heater assembly.

[0048] Each mounting portion may include a first section and a second section. Each first section may be substantially flush with the surface of the upper support structure. Each second section may extend from the surface of the upper support structure toward a second plane. The second plane may be parallel to, but not flush with, the surface of the upper support structure. Each second section may extend perpendicular to the surface of the upper support structure. Advantageously, this arrangement may provide a more robust structure for the heating element.

[0049] Each second section may be positioned between the frame and the support structure. Each second section may be secured between the frame and the support structure. Advantageously, each second section positioned or secured between the frame and the support structure may securely hold the heating element in place.

[0050] Both the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may comprise a first electrical contact section and a second electrical contact section. Both first electrical contact sections may be substantially flush with the surface of the upper support structure. Both second electrical contact sections may extend from the surface of the upper support structure toward the second plane. Both second electrical contact sections may extend perpendicular to the surface of the upper support structure. Advantageously, this arrangement may provide a more robust structure for the heating element.

[0051] Both second electrical contact sections may be positioned between the frame and the support structure. Both second electrical contact sections may be fixed between the frame and the support structure. Advantageously, both second electrical contact sections positioned or fixed between the frame and the support structure may securely fix the heating element in place.

[0052] The frame may include an upper surface that is flush with a surface of the upper support structure. The frame may include a lower frame surface. The support structure may include a surface of the lower support structure that is flush with a lower surface of the frame. Each of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may further include a third electrical contact section. Both third electrical contact sections may be substantially flush with the lower surface of the frame.

[0053] The heating portions may be flush with the top surface of the frame.

[0054] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include a heater assembly. The aerosol generating device may include a heater assembly according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The heater assembly may include a heating element. The heater assembly may include a first electrical contact in electrical contact with a first end of the heating element. The heater assembly may include a second electrical contact in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element. The heating element may provide a continuous electrical path between the first and second electrical contacts. The heating element may include a plurality of heating portions. The heating element may include at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along the continuous electrical path. The heater assembly may include a frame. The frame may include an opening in a first plane. The heating element may be fixed to the frame. Each heating portion may be within the opening. Each heating portion may be above the opening. Each heating portion may be separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion. At least one heating portion may include a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. The cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path.

[0055] The aerosol generating device may further include an airflow passage defined between the air inlet and the air outlet. The airflow passage may be in fluid communication with the heating element. In particular, the airflow passage may be in fluid communication with a first side of the heating element. The airflow passage may pass through the heater assembly. The heater assembly may include a heater assembly airflow passage between the heater assembly air inlet and the heater assembly air outlet. The aerosol generating device may further include a power source. The power source may be in electrical contact with the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. The power source may be configured to power the heating element. The aerosol generating device may further include control circuitry. The control circuitry may be configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element.

[0056] The battery may be a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt battery, a lithium iron phosphate battery, a lithium titanate battery, or a lithium polymer battery. The battery may be a nickel metal hydride battery or a nickel cadmium battery. The power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor.

[0057] The control circuit may be connected to a power source. The control circuit may be connected to the heating element. The control circuit may control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element. The control circuit may control the temperature of the heating element. The control circuit may comprise a controller. The control circuit may comprise a microcontroller. The microcontroller may be a programmable microcontroller.

[0058] The aerosol generating device may be a handheld aerosol generating device. 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 25 mm to about 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 30 mm.

[0059] The control circuit may further include a smoke detector in fluid communication with the airflow passage. The device may be configured such that the heating element is smoke activated. Advantageously, this may reduce energy consumption from the battery and ensure that aerosol is generated only when desired by the user.

[0060] The air inlet may be defined in a side wall of the device. The air outlet may be defined in an end wall of the device. The air outlet may be defined in a proximal end wall of the device. Advantageously, an air outlet defined in the proximal end wall of the device means that a cartridge comprising a mouthpiece can be easily coupled to the proximal end wall and therefore to the air outlet. The side wall of the device may extend at a right angle to the end wall of the device.

[0061] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system may include a cartridge. The cartridge may include an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may include a reservoir containing the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in fluid communication with a wicking material. The wicking material may form part of the outer surface of the cartridge.

[0062] The aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device may comprise a heater assembly. The aerosol generating device may comprise a heater assembly according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The heater assembly may comprise a heating element. The heater assembly may further comprise a first electrical contact in electrical contact with a first end of the heating element. The heater assembly may further comprise a second electrical contact in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element. The heating element may provide a continuous electrical path between the first and second electrical contacts.

[0063] The heating element may comprise a plurality of heating portions. The heating element may further comprise at least one mounting portion. The at least one mounting portion may be positioned between the heating portions along the continuous electrical path.

[0064] The heater assembly may include a frame. The frame may include an opening. The frame may include an opening in a first plane.

[0065] The heating element may be secured to the frame. Each heating portion may be within the opening. Each heating portion may be above the opening. Each heating portion may be separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion. At least one heating portion may include a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane.

[0066] The cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path.

[0067] The aerosol generating system may comprise a system airflow passage defined between the air inlet of the system and the air outlet of the system. Particularly, as in the second embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further comprise an airflow passage defined between the air inlet and the air outlet. The system airflow passage may comprise the airflow passage of the device. The system air inlet may comprise the air inlet of the device. The system air outlet may comprise the air outlet of the device. The device airflow passage may be in fluid communication with the heating element. Particularly, the device airflow passage may be in fluid communication with a first side of the heating element. The system airflow passage may pass through a heater assembly. Particularly, the device airflow passage may pass through the heater assembly. The heater assembly may comprise a heater assembly airflow passage between the heater assembly air inlet and the heater assembly air outlet. The device air inlet may comprise the heater assembly air inlet. The system airflow passage may comprise the heater assembly airflow passage. Particularly, the device airflow passage may comprise the heater assembly airflow passage.

[0068] The aerosol generating device may further include a power source. The power source may be in electrical contact with the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. The power source may be configured to power the heating element. The aerosol generating device may further include a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to control the power supply from the power source to the heating element. Thus, advantageously, the power supplied to the heating element may be varied based on usage behavior.

[0069] The cartridge may be reversibly connectable to the aerosol generating device. The cartridge may be reversibly connectable to the aerosol generating device, such that when the cartridge is connected to the device, the wicking material is in direct contact with the heating element. Advantageously, the fact that the cartridge is reversibly connectable to the aerosol generating device means that once emptied or damaged, the cartridge can be discarded and replaced with a new cartridge. This may result in cost savings and environmental benefits, as fewer components are discarded. The wicking element may have a cross-sectional area equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening. The wicking element may have a cross-sectional shape that is approximately the same as the cross-sectional shape of the opening.

[0070] The airflow passage of the aerosol generating device can be in fluid communication with a first side of the heating element. When the cartridge is coupled to the device, the wicking material can be in direct contact with a second side of the heating element. The first side of the heating element can face the second side of the heating element.

[0071] The cartridge may further comprise a cartridge airflow passage defined between the cartridge air inlet and the cartridge air outlet.

[0072] The cartridge may further comprise a removable seal covering a portion of the cartridge. In particular, the cartridge may further comprise a removable seal covering the suction element. The removable seal may be configured to be removed by the user.

[0073] When the cartridge is coupled to the device, the air inlet of the cartridge may be in fluid communication with the air outlet of the device.

[0074] The air outlet of the cartridge may comprise a mouthpiece.

[0075] The aerosol generation system may be a handheld aerosol generation system configured to allow a user to place their mouth on the mouthpiece and draw aerosol through the air outlet of the cartridge. The aerosol generation system may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generation system may have a total length of about 25 mm to about 150 mm. The aerosol generation system may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 30 mm.

[0076] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid. In particular, the aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid at standard temperature and pressure. Advantageously, this ensures that the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be easily transported from the reservoir to the wicking element and then to the heating element when the system is used at standard temperature and pressure. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid at room temperature. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in another condensed form, such as a solid at room temperature, or in another condensed form, such as a gel at room temperature. The volatile compound may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain both liquid and solid components. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain a plant-derived material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain a homogenized tobacco material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco-containing material.The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogenized plant-derived material.

[0077] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain one or more aerosol formers. The aerosol former may be any suitable, well-known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of a dense, stable aerosol upon 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 contain water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavors. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain 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 from about 0.5% to about 10%, for example, about 2%.

[0078] According to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The cartridge may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate as described in relation to the third embodiment. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in fluid communication with a wicking material.

[0079] The cartridge may include a heater assembly. The cartridge may include a heater assembly according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The cartridge may be configured to be coupled to an aerosol generating device. The heater assembly may be coupleable to and detachable from the cartridge body. The heater assembly may include a heating element. The heater assembly may include a first electrical contact in electrical contact with a first end of the heating element. The heater assembly may include a second electrical contact in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element. The heating element may provide a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. The heating element may include multiple heating portions. The heating element may include at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along the continuous electrical path. The heater assembly may include a frame. The frame may include an opening in a first plane. The heating element may be fixed to the frame. Each heating portion may be within the opening. Each heating portion may be above the opening. Each heating portion may be separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion. The at least one heating portion may include a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. The heater assembly may form a portion of an exterior surface of the cartridge. The wicking material may be in contact with the heating element.

[0080] The cartridge may further comprise a cartridge airflow passage. The cartridge airflow passage may be defined between the cartridge air inlet and the cartridge air outlet. The cartridge airflow passage may be in fluid communication with the heating element. In particular, the cartridge airflow passage may be in fluid communication with a first side of the heating element. The cartridge airflow passage may pass through the heater assembly. The heater assembly may comprise a heater assembly airflow passage between the heater assembly air inlet and the heater assembly air outlet. The cartridge air inlet may comprise a heater assembly air inlet.

[0081] The cartridge may be configured to be coupled to an aerosol generating device such that the air inlet of the cartridge is aligned with the device air outlet of the aerosol generating device.

[0082] The air outlet of the cartridge may comprise a mouthpiece.

[0083] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid. In particular, the aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid at standard temperature and pressure. Advantageously, this ensures that the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be easily transported from the reservoir to the wicking element and then to the heating element when the system is used at standard temperature and pressure.

[0084] As used herein, the term "heating element" refers to an element of a heater assembly that is configured to be heated. For example, the term "heating element" can refer to an element that is configured to heat at least a portion of the element to at least 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, or 300 degrees Celsius.

[0085] As used herein, the term "coupled or coupleable" is used to mean that the cartridge and device can be coupled and decoupled from one another without significantly damaging either the cartridge or the device.

[0086] As used herein, the term "serpentine" is used to define a path shape that, when viewed perpendicular to the plane of the path, includes at least one curve or bend of approximately 180 degrees in the path, such that a first region of the shape lies along a second region of the shape. Thus, the shape may resemble a single Latin letter "S" or multiple Latin letter "S"s joined end to end.

[0087] As used herein, the terms "air inlet" and "air outlet" are used to denote one or more openings through which air may be drawn into and out of a heater assembly, aerosol generation system, cartridge or component or portion of a component of an aerosol generating device, respectively.

[0088] As used herein with respect to the present invention, the term "aerosol" is used to refer to a dispersion of solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. Aerosols can be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include vapors of substances that are normally liquid or solid at room temperature, as well as solid particulates, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particulates and liquid droplets.

[0089] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating system" refers to a system in which an aerosol is generated from one or more aerosol-forming substrates.

[0090] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. [Example]

[0091] 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.

[0092] Example 1 1. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, comprising: a frame having an opening in a first plane; a heating element fixed to the frame; a first electrical contact in electrical contact with the first end of the heating element; a second electrical contact in electrical contact with the second end of the heating element, the heating element providing a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact; the heating element comprises a plurality of heating portions and at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along a continuous electrical path; Each heating portion is located within or over an opening and is separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion; A heater assembly, wherein each heating segment includes a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. Example 2. 10. The heater assembly of example 1, wherein the heating element comprises a resilient material. Example 3 3. The heater assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path is less than a cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path. Example 4. 4. The heater assembly of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the electrical resistance of the plurality of heating portions is higher than the electrical resistance of at least one mounting portion. Example 5. 5. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 1-4, wherein the frame has an upper surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a first distance from the upper surface of the frame. Example 6 6. The heater assembly of example 5, wherein the first distance is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm. Example 7 7. The heater assembly of example 5 or 6, wherein the mounting section of each mounting portion is recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame. Example 8 The heater assembly of any of Examples 5-7, wherein at least a second portion of the heating element coincides with a plane formed by the top surface of the frame. Example 9. 9. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 5 to 8, wherein the frame has a lower surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a second distance from the lower surface of the frame. Example 10. 10. The heater assembly of example 9, wherein the second distance is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm. Example 11 11. The heater assembly of example 9 or 10, wherein the mounting section of the mounting portion is recessed a second distance from the underside of the frame. Example 12 The heater assembly of any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the heating element has a serpentine shape. Example 13 13. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-12, wherein the heater assembly is configured such that when a non-zero voltage is applied across the heating element between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, a temperature of the plurality of heating portions increases above a temperature of the at least one mounting portion. Example 14. 14. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 1-13, wherein the plurality of heating portions and the at least one mounting portion are all integrally formed. Example 15. 15. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-14, wherein each mounting portion is directly connected to exactly two heating portions. Example 16. 16. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-15, wherein each heating portion can be directly connected to exactly two mounting portions, or to exactly one mounting portion and either the first electrical contact or the second electrical contact. Example 17. 17. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-16, wherein each heating portion has a first width in a first direction, the first direction being perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path when the direction of the continuous electrical path is defined by each heating portion, and each mounting portion has a second width in the first direction, the second width being greater than the first width. Example 18. 18. The heater assembly of Example 17, wherein a ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 20 to 1 / 2. Example 19. 19. The heater assembly of Example 18, wherein a ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 1 / 4. Example 20. 20. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 17, 18, or 19, wherein the first width is between 0.1 millimeters and 2 millimeters. Example 21. 21. The heater assembly of example example 20, wherein the first width is between 0.2 millimeters and 1 millimeter. Example 22. 22. The heater assembly of example example 21, wherein the first width is between 0.2 millimeters and 0.5 millimeters. Example 23. 23. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 17-22, wherein the heating element has a thickness in at least one direction perpendicular to the first direction. Example 24. 24. The heater assembly of Example 23, wherein the thickness is between 0.02 millimeters and 0.5 millimeters. Example 25. The heater assembly of example 24, wherein the thickness is between 0.05 millimeters and 0.3 millimeters. Example 26. A heater assembly described in any of Examples 1 to 25, wherein the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of the multiple heating portions is greater than the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of at least one mounting portion. Example 27. 27. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 1-26, wherein the heating element comprises stainless steel. Example 28. 28. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 1-27, wherein the heating element comprises a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material. Example 29. The heater assembly of any of Examples 539 to 566, wherein the heating element is coated with a corrosion-resistant material. Example 30. 30. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-29, wherein the heating element is coated with a ceramic material. Example 31. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-30, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is between 0.1 ohms and 5 ohms. Example 32. 32. The heater assembly of example embodiment 31, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is between 0.2 ohms and 1.5 ohms. Example 33. 33. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-32, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are integrally formed. Example 34. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-33, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are formed of the same material. Example 35. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-34, wherein the opening is substantially square or rectangular. Example 36. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-35, wherein the opening is substantially circular. Example 37. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the frame is electrically insulating. Example 38. 38. The heater assembly of example example 37, wherein the frame has a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mK or less. Example 39. 39. The heater assembly of any one of Examples 37 to 38, wherein the frame comprises a heat resistant polymer. Example 40. 40. The heater assembly of any of Examples 37-39, wherein the frame comprises polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Example 41. 39. The heater assembly of example 37 or 38, wherein the frame comprises ceramic. Example 42. 42. The heater assembly of example 41, wherein the frame comprises alumina. Example 43. 42. The heater assembly of example 41, wherein the frame comprises zirconia. Example 44. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-43, wherein the frame is overmolded over the section of the heating element. Example 45. 45. The heater assembly of example embodiment 44, wherein the frame is overmolded onto the mounting section of the at least one mounting portion. Example 46. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-45, wherein the frame is overmolded over at least a mounting section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact. Example 47. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-46, wherein the frame comprises an upper element and a lower element. Example 48. 48. The heater assembly of example 47, wherein the upper and lower elements comprise press-fit elements such that the upper and lower elements can be joined together by a press fit. Example 49. 48. The heater assembly of example 47, wherein the upper and lower elements comprise snap-fit ​​elements such that the upper and lower elements can be joined together by a snap fit. Example 50. 50. The heater assembly of example 48 or 49, wherein at least the mounting section of the at least one mounting portion is located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are coupled together. Example 51. A heater assembly described in any of Examples 48-50, wherein at least a mounting section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact are located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are joined together. Example 52. 52. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-51, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 1 square millimeter and 1000 square millimeters. Example 53. 53. The heater assembly of example embodiment 52, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 2 square millimeters and 200 square millimeters. Example 54. 54. The heater assembly of Example 53, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 4 square millimeters and 50 square millimeters. Example 55. 55. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-54, wherein the heating element further comprises at least one insulating portion, and each mounting portion is separated from the frame by one insulating portion. Example 56. 56. The heater assembly of Example 55, wherein each heating section is connected to the frame via at least one insulating section. Example 57. 57. The heater assembly of embodiment 55 or 56, wherein the plurality of heating portions, the at least one mounting portion, and the at least one insulating portion are all integrally formed. Example 58. A heater assembly described in any of Examples 55 to 57 when dependent on Example 17, wherein each insulating portion has a third width in the first direction, the third width being smaller than the second width. Example 59. 59. The heater assembly of Example 58, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 2 / 3. Example 60. 59. The heater assembly of claim 59, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 5 to 1 / 3. Example 61. 61. The heater assembly of any of Examples 58-60, wherein the third width is approximately equal to the first width. Example 62. A heater assembly described in any of Examples 55 to 61, wherein the thermal resistance across each mounting portion between adjacent heating portions and adjacent insulating portions is lower than the thermal resistance across each insulating portion between adjacent mounting portions and the frame. Example 63. 63. The heater assembly of any of Examples 1-62, further comprising a support structure, wherein the frame at least partially surrounds the support structure, and the support structure comprises an opening in the support structure. Example 64. 64. The heater assembly of example 63, wherein at least a portion of the heating element is within or over the opening in the support structure. Example 65. 65. The heater assembly of embodiment 64, wherein the plurality of heating portions are within or above the openings in the support structure. Example 66. 1. An aerosol generating device comprising a heater assembly, the heater assembly comprising: a frame having an opening in a first plane; a heating element fixed to the frame; a first electrical contact in electrical contact with the first end of the heating element; a second electrical contact in electrical contact with the second end of the heating element, the heating element providing a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact; the heating element comprises a plurality of heating portions and at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along a continuous electrical path; Each heating portion is located within or over an opening and is separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion; a heater assembly, each heating segment including a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane; an airflow passage defined between the air inlet and the air outlet, the airflow passage being in fluid communication with the heating element; a power source in electrical contact with the first and second electrical contacts and configured to power the heating element; An aerosol generating device comprising: a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element. Example 67. 67. The aerosol generating device of Example 66, wherein the aerosol generating device is a handheld aerosol generating device. Example 68. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 66 or 67, wherein the control circuit further comprises a smoke detector in fluid communication with the airflow passage, and the device is configured such that the heating element is smoke activated. Example 69. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 68, wherein the air inlet is defined in a side wall of the device. Example 70. 70. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 69, wherein the air outlet is defined in an end wall of the device. Example 71. 71. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 70, wherein the side wall of the device extends perpendicular to the end wall of the device. Example 72. 72. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 71, wherein the heating element comprises an elastic material. Example 73. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 72, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path. Example 74. 74. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 73, wherein the electrical resistance of the plurality of heating portions is higher than the electrical resistance of at least one mounting portion. Example 75. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 74, wherein the frame has an upper surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a first distance from the upper surface of the frame. Example 76. 76. The aerosol generating device of Example 75, wherein the first distance is 0.2 mm to 5 mm. Example 77. An aerosol generating device as described in embodiment 675 or 76, wherein the mounting section of each mounting portion is recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame. Example 78. 78. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 75 to 77, wherein at least the second portion of the heating element coincides with a plane formed by the upper surface of the frame. Example 79. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 75 to 78, wherein the frame has a lower surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a second distance from the lower surface of the frame. Example 80. 79. The aerosol generating device of Example 79, wherein the second distance is 0.2 mm to 5 mm. Example 81. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 79 or 80, wherein the mounting section of the mounting portion is recessed a second distance from the lower surface of the frame. Example 82. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 66 to 81, wherein the heating element has a serpentine shape. Example 83. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 82, wherein the heater assembly is configured such that when a non-zero voltage is applied across the heating element between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, the temperature of the multiple heating portions increases above the temperature of at least one mounting portion. Example 84. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 83, wherein the plurality of heating portions and the at least one mounting portion are all integrally formed. Example 85. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 84, wherein each mounting part is directly connected to exactly two heating parts. Example 86. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 85, wherein each heating portion can be directly connected to exactly two mounting portions, or to exactly one mounting portion, and either the first electrical contact or the second electrical contact. Example 87. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 86, wherein each heating portion has a first width in a first direction and each mounting portion has a second width in the first direction, the second width being larger than the first width. Example 88. 88. The aerosol generating device according to Example 87, wherein the ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 20 to 1 / 2. Example 89. 89. The aerosol generating device according to Example 88, wherein the ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 1 / 4. Example 90. 90. The aerosol generating device of Example 87, 88, or 89, wherein the first width is 0.1 millimeters to 2 millimeters. Example 91. 91. The aerosol generating device of Example 90, wherein the first width is 0.2 millimeters to 1 millimeter. Example 92. 92. The aerosol generating device of Example 91, wherein the first width is 0.2 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters. Example 93. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 92, wherein the heating element has a thickness in at least one direction perpendicular to the first direction. Example 94. The aerosol generating device of Example 93, wherein the thickness is 0.02 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters. Example 95. The aerosol generating device of Example 94, wherein the thickness is 0.05 millimeters to 0.3 millimeters. Example 96. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 95, wherein the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of multiple heating parts is greater than the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of at least one mounting part. Example 97. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 66 to 96, wherein the heating element comprises stainless steel. Example 98. 98. The aerosol generating apparatus of any one of Examples 66 to 97, wherein the heating element comprises a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material. Example 99. 99. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 66 to 98, wherein the heating element is covered with a corrosion-resistant material. Example 100. 99. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 66 to 99, wherein the heating element is coated with a ceramic material. Example 101. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 100, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is 0.1 ohms to 5 ohms. Example 102. 102. The aerosol generating device of claim 101, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is between 0.2 ohms and 1.5 ohms. Example 103. The aerosol generating device of any one of Examples 66 to 102, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are integrally formed. Example 104. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 103, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are formed from the same material. Example 105. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 104, wherein the opening is substantially square or rectangular. Example 106. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 104, wherein the opening is substantially circular. Example 107. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 66 to 106, wherein the frame is electrically insulating. Example 108. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 107, wherein the frame has a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mk or less. Example 109. 109. The aerosol generating device of Example 107 or 108, wherein the frame comprises a heat-resistant polymer. Example 110. 109. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 107 to 109, wherein the frame comprises polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Example 111. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 107 to 108, wherein the frame comprises ceramic. Example 112. 112. The aerosol generating device of claim 111, wherein the frame comprises alumina. Example 113. 112. The aerosol generating device of claim 111, wherein the frame comprises zirconia. Example 114. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 113, wherein the frame is overmolded onto the heating element section. Example 115. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 114, wherein the frame is overmolded onto the mounting section of at least one mounting portion. Example 116. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 114 or 115, wherein the frame is overmolded over at least a mounting section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact. Example 117. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 113, wherein the frame comprises an upper element and a lower element. Example 118. 118. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 117, wherein the upper element and the lower element comprise press-fit elements such that the upper element and the lower element can be joined together by a press fit. Example 119. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 117, wherein the upper element and the lower element comprise snap-fit ​​elements such that the upper element and the lower element can be joined together by a snap fit. Example 120. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 118 or 119, wherein at least the mounting section of at least one mounting portion is located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are joined together. Example 121. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 118 to 120, wherein at least an attachment section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact are located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are joined together. Example 122. 122. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 66 to 121, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area of ​​1 square millimeter to 1000 square millimeters in the first plane. Example 123. 123. The aerosol generating device of Example 122, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 2 square millimeters to 200 square millimeters. Example 124. 124. The aerosol generating device of Example 123, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 4 square millimeters to 50 square millimeters. Example 125. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 66 to 124, wherein the heating element further comprises at least one insulating portion, and each mounting portion is separated from the frame by one insulating portion. Example 126. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 125, wherein each heating section is connected to the frame via at least one insulating section. Example 127. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 125 or 126, wherein the multiple heating portions, at least one mounting portion, and at least one insulating portion are all integrally formed. Example 128. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 125 to 127 when dependent on Example 87, wherein each insulating portion has a third width in a first direction, and the third width is smaller than the second width. Example 129. 129. The aerosol generating device according to Example 128, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 2 / 3. Example 130. 129. The aerosol generating device according to claim 129, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 5 to 1 / 3. Example 131. 131. The heater assembly of any of Examples 128-130, wherein the third width is approximately equal to the first width. Example 132. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 125 to 131, wherein the thermal resistance across each mounting portion between adjacent heating portions and adjacent insulating portions is lower than the thermal resistance across each insulating portion between adjacent mounting portions and the frame. Example 133. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 66 to 132, further comprising a support structure, wherein the frame at least partially surrounds the support structure, and the support structure comprises an opening in the support structure. Example 134. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 133, wherein at least a portion of the heating element is within or above the opening in the support structure. Example 135. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 134, wherein the multiple heating portions are located within or above the openings in the support structure. Example 136. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge, an aerosol-forming substrate in fluid communication with the wicking material, a cartridge comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, the wicking material forming part of an outer surface of the cartridge; An aerosol generating device, comprising: 1. A heater assembly comprising: a frame having an opening in a first plane; a heating element fixed to the frame; a first electrical contact in electrical contact with the first end of the heating element; a second electrical contact in electrical contact with the second end of the heating element, the heating element providing a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact; the heating element comprises a plurality of heating portions and at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along a continuous electrical path; Each heating portion is located within or over an opening and is separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion; a heater assembly, each heating segment including a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane; an airflow passage defined between the air inlet and the air outlet, the airflow passage being in fluid communication with the heating element; a power source in electrical contact with the first and second electrical contacts and configured to power the heating element; a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element; and An aerosol generating system, wherein the cartridge is reversibly connectable to an aerosol generating device such that when the cartridge is connected to the device, the wicking material is in direct contact with the heating element. Example 137. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 136, wherein the airflow passage is in fluid communication with a first side of the heating element and the wicking material is in direct contact with a second side of the heating element when the cartridge is coupled to the device. Example 138. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 136 or 137, wherein the cartridge further comprises an airflow passage of the cartridge defined between the air inlet of the cartridge and the air outlet of the cartridge. Example 139. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 138, wherein when the cartridge is coupled to the device, the air intake of the cartridge is in fluid communication with the air outlet of the device. Example 140. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 138 to 139, wherein the air outlet of the cartridge is provided with a mouthpiece. Example 141. 141. The aerosol-generating system of any of Examples 136 to 140, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is liquid at standard temperature and pressure. Example 142. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 136 to 141, wherein the heating element comprises an elastic material. Example 143. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 142, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path. Example 144. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 143, wherein the electrical resistance of the multiple heating portions is higher than the electrical resistance of at least one mounting portion. Example 145. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 144, wherein the frame has an upper surface parallel to a first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a first distance from the upper surface of the frame. Example 146. 146. The aerosol generating system of Example 145, wherein the first distance is 0.2 mm to 5 mm. Example 147. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 145 or 146, wherein the mounting section of each mounting portion is recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame. Example 148. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 145 to 147, wherein at least a second portion of the heating element coincides with a plane formed by the upper surface of the frame. Example 149. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 145 to 148, wherein the frame has a lower surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a second distance from the lower surface of the frame. Example 150. The aerosol generation system of Example 149, wherein the second distance is 0.2 mm to 5 mm. Example 151. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 149 or 150, wherein the mounting section of the mounting portion is recessed a second distance from the lower surface of the frame. Example 152. 152. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 136 to 151, wherein the heating element has a serpentine shape. Example 153. An aerosol generation system described in any of Examples 136 to 152, wherein the heater assembly is configured such that when a non-zero voltage is applied across the heating element between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, the temperature of the multiple heating portions increases above the temperature of at least one mounting portion. Example 154. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 153, wherein the multiple heating portions and at least one mounting portion are all integrally formed. Example 155. An aerosol generation system described in any of Examples 136 to 154, wherein each mounting portion is directly connected to exactly two heating portions. Example 156. An aerosol generation system described in any of Examples 136 to 155, wherein each heating portion can be directly connected to exactly two mounting portions, or exactly one mounting portion, and either the first electrical contact or the second electrical contact. Example 157. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 156, wherein each heating portion has a first width in a first direction and each mounting portion has a second width in the first direction, the second width being greater than the first width. Example 158. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 157, wherein the ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 20 to 1 / 2. Example 159. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 158, wherein the ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 1 / 4. Example 160. 159. The aerosol generation system of Example 157, 158, or 159, wherein the first width is between 0.1 millimeters and 2 millimeters. Example 161. The aerosol generation system of Example 160, wherein the first width is between 0.2 millimeters and 1 millimeter. Example 162. The aerosol generation system described in Example 161, wherein the first width is 0.2 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters. Example 163. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 162, wherein the heating element has a thickness in at least one direction perpendicular to the first direction. Example 164. The aerosol generation system of Example 163, wherein the thickness is 0.02 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters. Example 165. The aerosol generation system of Example 164, wherein the thickness is 0.05 millimeters to 0.3 millimeters. Example 166. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 165, wherein the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of multiple heating portions is greater than the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of at least one mounting portion. Example 167. 167. The aerosol generating system of any of Examples 136-166, wherein the heating element comprises stainless steel. Example 168. The aerosol generating system of any of Examples 136-167, wherein the heating element comprises a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material. Example 169. 169. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 136 to 168, wherein the heating element is coated with a corrosion-resistant material. Example 170. 169. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 136 to 169, wherein the heating element is coated with a ceramic material. Example 171. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 170, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is between 0.1 ohms and 5 ohms. Example 172. The aerosol generation system of Example 171, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is between 0.2 ohms and 1.5 ohms. Example 173. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 172, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are integrally formed. Example 174. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 173, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are formed from the same material. Example 175. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 174, wherein the opening is substantially square or rectangular. Example 176. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 136 to 175, wherein the opening is substantially circular. Example 177. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 136 to 176, wherein the frame is electrically insulating. Example 178. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 177, wherein the frame has a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mk or less. Example 179. The aerosol generating system of Example 177 or 178, wherein the frame comprises a heat-resistant polymer. Example 180. 179. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 177 to 179, wherein the frame comprises polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Example 181. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 177 or 178, wherein the frame comprises ceramic. Example 182. 182. The aerosol generating system of claim 181, wherein the frame comprises alumina. Example 183. 182. The aerosol generating system of example 181, wherein the frame comprises zirconia. Example 184. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 183, wherein the frame is overmolded onto the heating element section. Example 185. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 184, wherein the frame is overmolded onto the mounting section of at least one mounting portion. Example 186. An aerosol generation system described in any of Examples 136 to 185, wherein the frame is overmolded onto at least a mounting section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact. Example 187. An aerosol generation system described in any of Examples 136 to 183, wherein the frame comprises an upper element and a lower element. Example 188. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 187, wherein the upper element and the lower element comprise press-fit elements such that the upper element and the lower element can be joined together by a press fit. Example 189. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 187, wherein the upper element and the lower element have snap-fit ​​elements so that the upper element and the lower element can be joined together by a snap fit. Example 190. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 188 or 189, wherein at least the mounting section of at least one mounting portion is located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are joined together. Example 191. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 188 to 190, wherein at least an attachment section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact are located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are joined together. Example 192. 192. The aerosol generating system of any of Examples 136-191, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 1 square millimeter to 1000 square millimeters. Example 193. 193. The aerosol generation system of Example 192, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 2 square millimeters and 200 square millimeters. Example 194. 194. The aerosol generation system of Example 193, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 4 square millimeters and 50 square millimeters. Example 195. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 136 to 194, wherein the heating element further comprises at least one insulating portion, and each mounting portion is separated from the frame by one insulating portion. Example 196. An aerosol generating system as described in Example 195, wherein each heating section is connected to the frame via at least one insulating section. Example 197. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 195 or 196, wherein the multiple heating portions, at least one mounting portion, and at least one insulating portion are all integrally formed. Example 198. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 195 to 197 when dependent on Example 157, wherein each insulating section has a third width in a first direction, the third width being smaller than the second width. Example 199. The aerosol generation system of Example 198, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 2 / 3. Example 200. The aerosol generation system of Example 199, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 5 to 1 / 3. Example 201. The aerosol generation system of any of Examples 198-200, wherein the third width is approximately equal to the first width. Example 202. An aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 195 to 201, wherein the thermal resistance across each mounting section between adjacent heating sections and adjacent insulating sections is lower than the thermal resistance across each insulating section between adjacent mounting sections and the frame. Example 203. An aerosol generation system described in any of Examples 136 to 202, further comprising a support structure, wherein the frame at least partially surrounds the support structure, and the support structure comprises an opening in the support structure. Example 204. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 203, wherein at least a portion of the heating element is within or above the opening in the support structure. Example 205. An aerosol generation system as described in Example 204, wherein the multiple heating portions are within or above the openings of the support structure. Example 206. 1. A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate in fluid communication with the wicking material; 1. A heater assembly comprising: a frame having an opening in a first plane; a heating element secured to the frame, the wicking material contacting the heating element; a first electrical contact in electrical contact with the first end of the heating element; a second electrical contact in electrical contact with the second end of the heating element, the heating element providing a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact; the heating element comprises a plurality of heating portions and at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along a continuous electrical path; Each heating portion is located within or over an opening and is separated from the frame by at least one mounting portion; a heater assembly, wherein each heating portion includes a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. Example 207. The cartridge of Example 206, wherein the cartridge is configured to be reversibly connectable to and disconnectable from the aerosol generating device. Example 208. 208. The cartridge of example 206 or 207, further comprising a cartridge airflow passage defined between the cartridge air inlet and the cartridge air outlet. Example 209. The cartridge of Example 208, wherein the air outlet of the cartridge comprises a mouthpiece. Example 210. 209. The cartridge of any one of examples 206 to 209, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is liquid at standard temperature and pressure. Example 211. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 210, wherein the heating element comprises an elastic material. Example 212. A cartridge according to any of Examples 206 to 211, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path. Example 213. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 212, wherein the electrical resistance of the plurality of heating portions is higher than the electrical resistance of at least one mounting portion. Example 214. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 213, wherein the frame has an upper surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a first distance from the upper surface of the frame. Example 215. 215. The cartridge of Example 214, wherein the first distance is 0.2 mm to 5 mm. Example 216. The cartridge of example 214 or 215, wherein the mounting section of each mounting portion is recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame. Example 217. 217. The cartridge of any of Examples 214-216, wherein at least a second portion of the heating element coincides with a plane formed by the top surface of the frame. Example 218. The cartridge of any of Examples 214-217, wherein the frame has a lower surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a second distance from the lower surface of the frame. Example 219. The cartridge of Example 218, wherein the second distance is 0.2 mm to 5 mm. Example 220. 219. The cartridge of example 218 or 219, wherein the mounting section of the mounting portion is recessed a second distance from the underside of the frame. Example 221. The cartridge of any one of Examples 206 to 220, wherein the heating element has a serpentine shape. Example 222. A cartridge described in any of Examples 206 to 221, wherein the heater assembly is configured such that when a non-zero voltage is applied across the heating element between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, the temperature of the multiple heating portions increases above the temperature of at least one mounting portion. Example 223. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 222, wherein the plurality of heating portions and the at least one mounting portion are all integrally formed. Example 224. The cartridge of any of Examples 206-223, wherein each mounting portion is directly connected to exactly two heating portions. Example 225. A cartridge described in any of Examples 206 to 224, wherein each heating portion can be directly connected to exactly two mounting portions, or exactly one mounting portion, and either the first electrical contact or the second electrical contact. Example 226. A cartridge described in any of Examples 206 to 225, wherein each heating portion has a first width in a first direction and each mounting portion has a second width in the first direction, the second width being greater than the first width. Example 227. The cartridge of Example 226, wherein the ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 20 to 1 / 2. Example 228. The cartridge of Example 227, wherein the ratio of the first width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 1 / 4. Example 229. 229. The cartridge of example 226, 227, or 228, wherein the first width is between 0.1 millimeters and 2 millimeters. Example 230. The cartridge of Example 229, wherein the first width is between 0.2 millimeters and 1 millimeter. Example 231. The cartridge of Example 230, wherein the first width is between 0.2 millimeters and 0.5 millimeters. Example 232. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 231, wherein the heating element has a thickness in at least one direction perpendicular to the first direction. Example 233. The cartridge of Example 232, wherein the thickness is 0.02 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters. Example 234. The cartridge of Example 233, wherein the thickness is 0.05 millimeters to 0.3 millimeters. Example 235. A cartridge described in any of Examples 206 to 234, wherein the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of multiple heating portions is greater than the electrical resistance per unit length in the direction of the conductive path of at least one mounting portion. Example 236. The cartridge of any of Examples 206-235, wherein the heating element comprises stainless steel. Example 237. The cartridge of any of Examples 206-236, wherein the heating element comprises a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material. Example 238. The cartridge of any of Examples 206-237, wherein the heating element is coated with a corrosion-resistant material. Example 239. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 238, wherein the heating element is coated with a ceramic material. Example 240. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 239, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is between 0.1 ohms and 5 ohms. Example 241. The cartridge of example 240, wherein the total resistance of the heating element is between 0.2 ohms and 1.5 ohms. Example 242. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 241, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are integrally formed. Example 243. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 242, wherein the heating element and the first and second electrical contacts are formed of the same material. Example 244. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 243, wherein the opening is substantially square or rectangular. Example 245. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 243, wherein the opening is substantially circular. Example 246. The cartridge of any one of Examples 206 to 245, wherein the frame is electrically insulating. Example 247. The cartridge of example 246, wherein the frame has a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mK or less. Example 248. The cartridge of example 246 or 247, wherein the frame comprises a heat-resistant polymer. Example 249. The cartridge of any of Examples 246 to 248, wherein the frame comprises polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Example 250. 248. The cartridge of example 246 or 247, wherein the frame comprises a ceramic. Example 251. 251. The cartridge of example 250, wherein the frame comprises alumina. Example 252. 251. The cartridge of example 250, wherein the frame comprises zirconia. Example 253. The cartridge of any of Examples 206-252, wherein the frame is overmolded onto the section of the heating element. Example 254. 254. The cartridge of example 253, wherein the frame is overmolded onto the mounting section of the at least one mounting portion. Example 255. A cartridge described in any of Examples 206 to 254, wherein the frame is overmolded over at least a mounting section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact. Example 256. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 252, wherein the frame comprises an upper element and a lower element. Example 257. 257. The cartridge of example 256, wherein the top and bottom elements comprise press-fit elements such that the top and bottom elements can be joined together by a press fit. Example 258. 257. The cartridge of example 256, wherein the upper and lower elements comprise snap-fit ​​elements such that the upper and lower elements can be joined together by a snap fit. Example 259. The cartridge of example 257 or 258, wherein at least the mounting section of the at least one mounting portion is located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are coupled together. Example 260. A cartridge described in any of Examples 206 to 259, wherein at least an attachment section of the first electrical contact and at least a section of the second electrical contact are located between the upper element and the lower element when the upper element and the lower element are joined together. Example 261. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 260, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of 1 square millimeter to 1000 square millimeters. Example 262. 262. The cartridge of Example 261, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 2 square millimeters and 200 square millimeters. Example 263. The cartridge of Example 262, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area in the first plane of between 4 square millimeters and 50 square millimeters. Example 264. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 263, wherein the heating element further comprises at least one insulating portion, and each mounting portion is separated from the frame by one insulating portion. Example 265. A cartridge as described in Example 264, wherein each heating portion is connected to the frame via at least one insulating portion. Example 266. A cartridge described in Example 264 or 265, wherein the multiple heating portions, at least one mounting portion, and at least one insulating portion are all integrally formed. Example 267. A cartridge described in any of Examples 264 to 266 when dependent on Example 226, wherein each insulating portion has a third width in the first direction, the third width being smaller than the second width. Example 268. The cartridge of Example 267, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 10 to 2 / 3. Example 269. The cartridge of Example 268, wherein the ratio of the third width to the second width is 1 / 5 to 1 / 3. Example 270. 269. The cartridge of any of Examples 267 to 269, wherein the third width is approximately equal to the first width. Example 271. A cartridge described in any of Examples 264 to 270, wherein the thermal resistance across each mounting portion between adjacent heating portions and adjacent insulating portions is lower than the thermal resistance across each insulating portion between adjacent mounting portions and the frame. Example 272. The cartridge of any of Examples 206 to 271, further comprising a support structure, wherein the frame at least partially surrounds the support structure, and the support structure comprises an opening in the support structure. Example 273. The cartridge of Example 272, wherein at least a portion of the heating element is within or above the opening in the support structure. Example 274. A cartridge as described in Example 273, wherein the multiple heating portions are within or above the openings of the support structure.

[0093] Features of one aspect or embodiment of the invention may be applied to other aspects or embodiments of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0094] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures.

[0095] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of the heater assembly. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B shows a top view of the heater assembly of FIG. 1A. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C shows a side view of the heater assembly of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of another heater assembly. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B shows a top view of the heater assembly of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of a further heater assembly. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B shows a side view of the heater assembly of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of yet a further heater assembly. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the heater assembly of FIG. 4A, with selected components of the heater assembly shown in transparency. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device comprising the heater assembly shown in any of FIGS. 1A-4B. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system comprising the aerosol generation device shown in FIG. 5 and a cartridge coupled to the aerosol generation device. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment, the cartridge comprising the heater assembly shown in any of FIGS. 1A-4B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0096] 1A shows a perspective view of a heater assembly 100. The heater assembly 100 is for use in an aerosol-generating system, such as an electrically operated smoking system, often referred to as an e-cigarette system. The aerosol-generating system is a handheld, portable system that is comparable in size to a traditional cigar or cigarette.

[0097] The heater assembly 100 includes a frame 120. The frame 120 has a length and a width in a first plane and a height perpendicular to the first plane, the length and width being greater than the height. Accordingly, the frame 120 has a top surface extending within the first plane. The frame 120 is generally square in shape within the first plane. The corners of the frame 120 within the first plane are rounded. The frame 120 includes an opening 121, which is located in the center of the frame 120. The opening 121 passes through the frame perpendicular to the first plane. The opening 121 is generally square in shape parallel to the first plane. In this embodiment, the opening 121 is the same shape as the frame 120, but this need not be the case. The area of ​​the opening is 100 square millimeters. For example, a generally square-shaped frame may include a generally circular opening. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the frame is formed from a heat-resistant polymer such as PEEK, although other suitable materials may be used instead.

[0098] The heater assembly 100 further includes a heating element 130. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the heating element 130 is parallel to the first plane. The heating element 130 includes a plurality of heating portions 131 and at least one mounting portion 132. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the heating element 130 includes seven heating portions 131 and six mounting portions 132. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the plurality of heating portions 131 and the at least one mounting portion 132 are integrally formed and comprise stainless steel.

[0099] The heater assembly 100 further includes a first electrical contact 191 and a second electrical contact 192. The first electrical contact 191 is attached to a first end of the heating element 130. The second electrical contact 192 is attached to a second end of the heating element 130. The heating element 130 forms a continuous, serpentine electrical path between the first electrical contact 191 and the second electrical contact 192. This continuous electrical path has a total electrical resistance of approximately 1 ohm. A portion of the heating element 130 overlies the opening 121. In particular, sections of the heating portion 131 and the mounting portion 132 each overlie the opening 121. Portions of the first electrical contact 191 and the second electrical contact 192 protrude outward from opposite sides of the frame 120 to enable electrical connection to external electronics.

[0100] Mounting portions 132 are each attached to frame 120. In this particular embodiment, frame 120 is overmolded onto the mounting sections of mounting portion 132. First electrical contact 191 and second electrical contact 192 are also attached to frame 120. In this particular embodiment, frame 120 is overmolded onto the mounting sections of first electrical contact 191 and second electrical contact 192. However, overmolding the frame onto the mounting sections may be replaced in alternative embodiments by either snapping, press-fitting, or fastening the two frame elements together.

[0101] The heating element 130 and the first and second electrical contacts 191, 192 are integrally formed and cut from a flat metal sheet, for example by laser cutting, water jet cutting, or chemical etching.

[0102] In this first embodiment, the heating element 130 is uncoated, however, the heating element 130 may be coated with a thin layer of a corrosion-resistant material to extend the life of the heating element 130. An example of such a material is a ceramic material.

[0103] FIG. 1B shows a plan view of the heater assembly 100 according to the embodiment of FIG. 1A. The heating portion 131 is shown having a first width 141 in a first direction, and the mounting portion is shown having a second width 142 also in the first direction. The second width is larger than the first width. The first width is approximately 0.5 millimeters. The second width is approximately 1.5 millimeters. Thus, the ratio of the first width to the second width is approximately 1 / 3. The serpentine shape of the heating element 130 is more clearly seen in this plan view. The heating portion 131 is shown to have a constant width along its entire length that is equal to the first width in the first direction. The mounting portion 131 is also shown to have a constant width along its entire length that is equal to the second width in the first direction.

[0104] FIG. 1C shows a side view of the heater assembly 100 according to the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B. The side view is in a first plane. The heating element 130 can be seen to be generally planar in the first plane, in that the heating element 130 extends much further in the first plane than perpendicular to the first plane. The heating element 130 is shown to have a uniform thickness perpendicular to the first plane. The thickness of the heating element is approximately 0.1 millimeters. Thus, the heating portion 131 and the mounting portion 132 have approximately equal thicknesses perpendicular to the first plane. The heating element 130 is recessed from the top surface 122 of the frame 120 by approximately 2 millimeters. Similarly, the first electrical contact 191 and the second electrical contact 192 are recessed from the top surface 122 of the frame 120 by approximately 2 millimeters. Similarly, the heating element 130 and the first and second electrical contacts are recessed from the underside of the frame 120 .

[0105] The heater assembly 100 is configured to be coupled to a suction element such that the suction element is in direct contact with one side of the heating element 130. The other side of the heating element 130 can then be exposed to air.

[0106] When an electric current is passed through the heating element 130 or when a non-zero voltage is applied between the first electrical contact 191 and the second electrical contact 192, the heating element 130 heats as a result of resistive heating. The electric current passes through the continuous electrical path formed by the heating element 130 in a serpentine direction defined by the shape of the heating element 130. Because the first width is greater than the second width and the heating portion 131 and the mounting portion 132 have approximately equal thicknesses perpendicular to the first plane, the cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion 131 perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion 132 perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path. Thus, when an electric current is passed through the heating element 130 or when a non-zero voltage is applied between the first electrical contact 191 and the second electrical contact 192, the temperature of the heating portion 131 increases beyond the temperature of the mounting portion 132.

[0107] The effect of increasing the temperature of the heating portion 131 beyond the temperature of the mounting portion 132 can alternatively be achieved. For example, the thicknesses of the heating portion and the mounting portion may be different.

[0108] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of a heater assembly 200 according to another embodiment. The frame 220 and the opening 221 are the same as those shown in FIGS. 1A-1C. The heater assembly 200 includes a heating element 230, which, like the first embodiment, includes a plurality of heating portions 231 and at least one mounting portion 232. The heater assembly 200 also includes a first electrical contact 291 and a second electrical contact 292, like the first embodiment. This embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 1A in that the heating element 230 further includes at least one insulating portion 235. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the heating element 230 includes six insulating portions 235. The number of insulating portions 235 is equal to the number of mounting portions 232. Each insulating portion 235 is connected between the frame 220 and one of the mounting portions 232. In particular, in the second embodiment, the frame 120 is overmolded onto each section of the insulating portions 235. 2A, the plurality of heating portions 231, the at least one mounting portion 232, and the at least one insulating portion 235 are integrally formed and comprise stainless steel. The plurality of heating portions 231, the at least one mounting portion 232, and the at least one insulating portion 235 have approximately equal thicknesses perpendicular to the first plane.

[0109] FIG. 2B shows a plan view of the heater assembly of FIG. 2A. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1A, the heating portion 231 is shown having a first width 241 in a first direction, and the mounting portion is shown having a second width 242 in the first direction. The second width is larger than the first width. In this second embodiment, the insulating portion 235 has a third width in the first direction. The second width is larger than the third width. The third width is approximately 0.75 millimeters. Thus, the ratio of the third width to the second width is approximately 1 / 2. In the embodiment shown, the third width is larger than the first width, but this may not necessarily be the case. For example, the third width may be approximately equal to the first width or may be less than the first width. The thicknesses of the plurality of heating portions 231, at least one mounting portion 232, and at least one insulating portion 235.

[0110] When a current passes through heating element 230 or when a non-zero voltage is applied between first electrical contact 291 and second electrical contact 292, heating portion 231 and mounting portion 232 heat up as a result of resistive heating. Although the temperature of mounting portion 232 rises less than the temperature of heating portion 231, as described in connection with FIGS. 1A-1C , mounting portion 232 may reach a temperature at which direct contact between mounting portion 232 and frame 220 is undesirable. Because the third width of insulating portion 235 is smaller than the second width of mounting portion 232, when a current passes through heating element 230, as in the first embodiment, the amount of energy transferred from the mounting portion to frame 220 is less than if mounting portion 232 were instead attached to frame 220.

[0111] FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of a heater assembly according to a further embodiment. The frame 320 and opening 321 are identical to those shown in FIGS. 1A-1C and 2A-2B. The heater assembly 300 includes a heating element 330, which, like the first and second embodiments, includes a plurality of heating portions 331 and at least one mounting portion 332. The heater assembly 300 also includes a first electrical contact 391 and a second electrical contact 392, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1C and 2A-2B. This further embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 1A in the shape of the heating element 330, which can also be seen in FIG. 3B.

[0112] 3B shows a side view of a heater assembly according to a further embodiment. Each of the plurality of heating segments 331 includes a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane. The outer surface of the curved heating segment 331 is configured to be coupled to a suction element.

[0113] The mounting section of mounting portion 332 and sections of first and second electrical contacts 391, 392 are recessed approximately 2 millimeters from top surface 322 of frame 320. Similarly, the mounting section of mounting portion 332 and sections of first and second electrical contacts 391, 392 are recessed from the bottom surface of frame 320. Mounting portion 332 and first and second electrical contacts 391, 392 include two sets of approximately 90-degree bends. A first set of approximately 90-degree bends 336 orients mounting portion 332 and second electrical contacts 391, 392 so that they extend perpendicular to the first plane. A second set of approximately 90-degree bends 337 orients mounting portion 332 and first and second electrical contacts 391, 392 away from being perpendicular to the first plane. Thus, two sets of approximately 90 degree bends are arranged such that a plurality of heating portions 331 intersect the top surface 322 of the frame 320, with at least a portion of each heating portion 331 extending beyond the plane formed by the top surface 322 of the frame 320. In this further embodiment, the heating element is bent by cold stamping or microbending.

[0114] FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a heater assembly according to yet another embodiment. The heater assembly 400 includes a heating element 430, which includes a plurality of heating portions 431 and at least one mounting portion 432, as in the previous embodiment. The heater assembly 400 also includes a first electrical contact 491 and a second electrical contact 492, as in the previous embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment, in this yet another embodiment, the heater assembly 400 further includes a support structure 460. The frame 420 surrounds the support structure 460 in a first plane. The support structure 460 can be considered to be located within an opening in the frame 420. The frame 420 includes a circular periphery and a generally oval-shaped opening. The support structure 460 includes a generally oval-shaped periphery that is the same size and shape as the generally oval-shaped opening in the frame so that a gap between the frame 420 and the support structure 460 is minimized. The support structure 460 includes a generally oval-shaped support structure opening 461 in a first plane. The support structure 460 includes an upper support structure surface 462 that is parallel to the first plane and coplanar with the top surface 422 of the frame 420. The plurality of heating elements 431 are coplanar with the upper support structure surface 462 and overlie the support structure opening 461.

[0115] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the heater assembly of FIG. 4A, with selected components of the heater assembly shown in transparency. In particular, the frame 420 and the support structure 460 are shown in transparency. Each mounting portion 432 includes a first section 433 and a second section 434. Each first section 433 rests on a surface 462 of the upper support structure and can therefore be considered to be flush with the surface 462 of the upper support structure. Each mounting portion 432 further includes a first set of approximately 90-degree bends 437. The first set of 90-degree bends orient each second section 434 so that it extends from the surface 462 of the upper support structure perpendicular to the surface 462 of the upper support structure. Thus, each second section 434 is positioned between the frame 420 and the support structure 460.

[0116] Additionally, both the first and second electrical contacts 491, 492 include a first electrical contact section 493, a second electrical contact section 494, and a third electrical contact section 495. In a manner similar to that of the mounting portion 432, both first electrical contact sections 493 are substantially flush with the surface 462 of the upper support structure. Both the first and second electrical contacts 491, 492 further include two approximately 90-degree bends 497, 496. The first pair of 90-degree bends 497 orient both second electrical contact sections 494 such that they extend from the surface 462 of the upper support structure perpendicular to the surface 462 of the upper support structure. Thus, both second electrical contact sections 494 are positioned between the frame 420 and the support structure 460. A second pair of 90 degree bends 498 orients the third electrical contact section 495 so that the third electrical contact section 495 is flush with the underside of the frame and parallel to the first plane. In this embodiment, the heating element is bent by cold stamping or microbending.

[0117] FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 510, comprising a heater assembly 500 according to any of the previous embodiments.

[0118] The aerosol generating device 510 is an electrically operated smoking device, often referred to as an e-cigarette system. The aerosol generating device 510 is a handheld, portable device, comparable in size to a conventional cigar or cigarette.

[0119] The device 510 includes a battery 511 , such as a lithium iron phosphate battery, and a controller 512 electrically connected to the battery 511 .

[0120] Device 510 comprises an outer casing 517. The outer casing houses a battery 511 and a control device 512. Device 510 is configured to be coupled to a cartridge containing a suction element and an aerosol-forming substrate. Device 510 comprises a cartridge coupling portion 518 extending from a proximal end of device 510. Cartridge coupling portion 518 extends annularly from outer casing 517 and provides a cavity within which the cartridge can be received.

[0121] Heater assembly 500 includes a fluid-permeable heating element 530 and a frame 520, both of which are described in previous embodiments. First and second electrical contacts (not shown) are electrically connected to heating element 530, battery 511, and controller 512.

[0122] The device 510 comprises a device air inlet 513 and a device air outlet 514. The device air inlet 513 may be defined in a sidewall of the device 610. The device air outlet is defined at the proximal end of the device. The device 510 comprises a device airflow passage 519. The device airflow passage 519 is defined between the device air inlet 513 and the device air outlet 514. The heating element 530 is positioned downstream of the device air inlet 513 and upstream of the device air outlet 514 and is in fluid communication with the device airflow passage 519. In particular, the underside of the heating element 530 is in fluid communication with the device airflow passage 519. It can be seen that the device airflow passage 519 comprises a heater assembly airflow passage. The heater assembly airflow passage is defined between the heater assembly air inlet and the heater assembly air outlet. In the embodiment shown, the air outlet 514 of the device comprises the air outlet of the heater assembly.

[0123] The apparatus 510 further comprises a spring element 516. The spring element 516 is fixed relative to the outer casing 517 and is in contact with the heater assembly 500.

[0124] FIG. 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation device as described with reference to FIG. 5 and a cartridge coupled to the aerosol generation device.

[0125] Cartridge 660 is coupled to device 610 by cartridge coupling portion 618. Cartridge 660 comprises a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 662 in reservoir 661 and a ceramic suction element 669. In this system, reservoir 661 is in fluid communication with ceramic suction element 669, so that liquid aerosol-forming substrate 662 can flow from reservoir 661 to suction element 669. Suction element 669 comprises a capillary material having a fibrous or spongy structure. Suction element 669 also forms part of the outer surface of cartridge 660.

[0126] The device air outlet 614 is configured to align with the cartridge air inlet 663 when the device 610 is coupled to the cartridge 660. When the device 610 is coupled to the cartridge 660, the device airflow passage 619 is connected to the cartridge airflow passage 668, defining an airflow passage for the system from the device air inlet 613 to the cartridge air outlet 664. The cartridge includes a mouthpiece 665, and the cartridge air outlet 664 is defined within the mouthpiece 665.

[0127] The suction element 669 is configured to align with an opening in the heater assembly frame. In this particular embodiment, when the system includes the heater assembly according to the first embodiment, the opening is generally square in shape with a cross-sectional area of ​​about 100 square millimeters. The suction element 669 also has a generally square cross-section with approximately the same cross-sectional area so that the suction element 669 can be easily received by the opening in the heater assembly frame. When the cartridge 660 is coupled to the device 610, the distal end of the suction element contacts the upper side of the heating element 630.

[0128] The device 610 further includes a spring element 616. The spring element 616 is fixed relative to an outer casing 617 of the device and is in contact with the heater assembly 600. When a user couples the cartridge 650 to the device 610, the spring element 617 exerts a force on the heater assembly 600. The force applied to the heater assembly 600 ensures that good contact is made between the upper surface of the heating element 630 and the wicking element 669.

[0129] During use, a user draws a puff on the mouthpiece of the cartridge 665, drawing air into the air inlet 613 of the device. The system 650 is puff-activated, meaning that a puff sensor (not shown), which may be a pressure sensor or airflow sensor, is located within the system 650. In particular, the puff sensor is in fluid communication with the airflow passage of the system and is preferably located within or adjacent to the airflow passage 619 of the device. The puff sensor detects a user puff and sends a signal to the controller 612, thereby providing power from the battery 611 to the heating element 630 of the heater assembly via the first and second electrical contacts. This causes current to flow through the heating element 630, thereby resistively heating it. In other embodiments, the aerosol generation system 650 may include a button that the user presses to send a signal to the controller 612 to provide power from the battery 611 to the heating element 630.

[0130] As the heating element 630 heats, it heats the suction element 669 and, therefore, any aerosol-forming substrate 662 contained within the suction element 669. Heating the suction element 669 causes the aerosol-forming substrate 662 to vaporize.

[0131] As the user draws on the cartridge air outlet 664, air is drawn into the device's air inlet 613. As the air is drawn through the air passageway, it passes across the heater assembly. The air flows across the underside of the heating element 630, across the surface of the draw element 669, and toward the cartridge air outlet 664. Vaporized aerosol-forming substrate 662 is entrained in this flowing air. This entrained vapor then cools and condenses to form an aerosol. The aerosol leaves the device's airflow passageway 619 through the air outlet 614. The aerosol then enters the cartridge 660 through the cartridge air inlet 663, exits the cartridge 660 through the cartridge air outlet 664, and is delivered to the user's mouth.

[0132] As the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 662 in the suction element 669 is heated, vaporized, and entrained in the airflow, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 662 from the reservoir 661 migrates into the suction element 669. This aerosol-forming substrate 662 from the reservoir 661 effectively replaces the vaporized aerosol-forming substrate 662. Because the suction element 669 is a capillary material having a fibrous or spongy structure, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 662 from the reservoir 661 can be drawn into the suction element 669, at least in part, by capillary action.

[0133] After multiple uses of the aerosol-generating system 650, the suction element 669 may begin to deteriorate, or the reservoir 661 may run out of aerosol-forming substrate 662. The user may then uncouple the cartridge 660 from the device 610. The cartridge 660 may be removed and discarded. The aerosol-generating device 610 may then be used again with a new cartridge.

[0134] FIG. 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cartridge 760, the cartridge 760 including a heater assembly 700 according to any of the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1A-4B.

[0135] Similar to cartridge 660 shown in Figure 6, cartridge 760 shown in Figure 7 comprises a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 762 in a reservoir 761 and a ceramic suction element 769. In this system, reservoir 761 is in fluid communication with ceramic suction element 769 such that liquid aerosol-forming substrate 662 can flow from reservoir 661 to suction element 669. The cartridge further comprises a mouthpiece 765, and an air outlet 764 of the cartridge is defined within mouthpiece 765.

[0136] 5 and 6, the heater assembly 700 is located within the cartridge 760 rather than the aerosol generating device. The heater assembly 700 is positioned such that the suction element 769 is aligned with an opening in the frame of the heater assembly 700 and such that the distal end of the suction element 769 contacts the upper side of the heating element 730. Additionally, the cartridge includes a cartridge air inlet 763 upstream of the heater assembly 700 such that a cartridge airflow path 768 is defined between the cartridge air inlet 763 and the cartridge air outlet 764, and the heating element 730 is in fluid communication with the cartridge airflow path 768.

[0137] Cartridge 760 is configured to be coupled to a suitable aerosol generating device, the device including a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery, a control device electrically connected to the battery, first and second device electrical contact portions, and a cartridge coupling portion providing a cavity into which cartridge 760 can be received.

[0138] The cartridge 760 includes first cartridge electrical contact portions and second cartridge electrical contact portions (not shown) configured to contact the electrical contact portions of the first device and the electrical contact portions of the second device when the cartridge 760 is coupled to a suitable device so that power can be supplied from the battery to the heating element 730.

[0139] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like are understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± 10%. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include a numerical value that is within the typical standard error for measurement of the property that the number A modifies. In some instances, as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentages recited above, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein.

Claims

1. 1. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, comprising: a frame having an opening in a first plane; a heating element fixed to the frame; a first electrical contact in electrical contact with a first end of the heating element; a second electrical contact in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element, the heating element providing a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact; the heating element comprises a plurality of heating portions and at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along the continuous electrical path; each heating element is within or over the opening and is separated from the frame by at least one mounting element; each heating portion includes a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane; the frame has a top surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame; A heater assembly wherein at least a second part of the heating element coincides with a plane formed by the top surface of the frame.

2. The heater assembly of claim 1 , wherein the heating element comprises a resilient material.

3. 3. The heater assembly of claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​each heating portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​each mounting portion perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path.

4. The heater assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of heating portions and the at least one mounting portion are all integrally formed.

5. 5. The heater assembly of claim 1, wherein each heating portion has a first width in a first direction perpendicular to the direction of the continuous electrical path when the direction of the continuous electrical path is defined by each heating portion, and each mounting portion has a second width in the first direction, the second width being greater than the first width.

6. 6. The heater assembly of claim 5, wherein the heating element further comprises at least one insulating portion, and each mounting portion is separated from the frame by one insulating portion.

7. 7. The heater assembly of claim 6, wherein each insulating portion has a third width in the first direction, the third width being less than the second width.

8. A heater assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame is overmolded onto a section of the heating element.

9. A heater assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame comprises an upper element and a lower element.

10. A heater assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame is electrically insulating.

11. 11. The heater assembly of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the heater assembly is configured such that when a non-zero voltage is applied across the heating element between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, a temperature of the plurality of heating portions increases above a temperature of the at least one mounting portion.

12. The heater assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the heating element is serpentine-shaped.

13. 1. An aerosol generating device comprising a heater assembly, the heater assembly comprising: a frame having an opening in a first plane; a heating element fixed to the frame; a first electrical contact in electrical contact with the first end of the heating element; a second electrical contact in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element, the heating element providing a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact; the heating element comprises a plurality of heating portions and at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along the continuous electrical path; each heating element is within or over the opening and is separated from the frame by at least one mounting element; each heating portion includes a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane, the frame includes a top surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame; a heater assembly, wherein at least a second portion of the heating element coincides with a plane formed by the top surface of the frame; an airflow passage defined between the air inlet and the air outlet, the airflow passage being in fluid communication with the heating element; a power source in electrical contact with the first and second electrical contacts and configured to power the heating element; and a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element.

14. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge, an aerosol-forming substrate in fluid communication with the wicking material, a cartridge, the wicking material comprising an aerosol-forming substrate forming part of an outer surface of the cartridge; An aerosol generating device, comprising:

1. A heater assembly comprising: a frame having an opening in a first plane; a heating element fixed to the frame; a first electrical contact in electrical contact with a first end of the heating element; a second electrical contact in electrical contact with a second end of the heating element, the heating element providing a continuous electrical path between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact; the heating element comprises a plurality of heating portions and at least one mounting portion positioned between the heating portions along the continuous electrical path; each heating element is within or over the opening and is separated from the frame by at least one mounting element; each heating portion includes a radius of curvature perpendicular to the first plane, the frame includes a top surface parallel to the first plane, and at least a first portion of the heating element is recessed a first distance from the top surface of the frame; a heater assembly, wherein at least a second portion of the heating element coincides with a plane formed by the top surface of the frame; an airflow passage defined between the air inlet and the air outlet, the airflow passage being in fluid communication with the heating element; a power source in electrical contact with the first and second electrical contacts and configured to power the heating element; a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element; and An aerosol generating system, wherein the cartridge is reversibly connectable to the aerosol generating device such that when the cartridge is connected to the device, the wicking material is in direct contact with the heating element.

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