Hybrid aerosol generator with a single induction coil

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hybrid aerosol generator (10). The aerosol generator comprises a main body (14). The body comprises a power source. The body is disposed at the distal end of the hybrid aerosol generator. The aerosol generator further comprises an upper portion (12). The upper portion comprises a cavity (16). The cavity comprises a proximal substrate receiving portion (18) configured to receive a first aerosol-forming substrate (22, 24). The cavity comprises a distal substrate receiving portion (20) configured to receive a second aerosol-forming substrate (26, 28). The first aerosol-forming substrate is different from the second aerosol-forming substrate. The upper portion is disposed at the proximal end of the hybrid aerosol generator. The hybrid aerosol generator further comprises an induction coil (32). The induction coil extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hybrid aerosol generator, at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion. The present invention also relates to a system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to hybrid aerosol generating devices and systems. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known to provide a hybrid aerosol-generating device for generating an inhalable vapor. Such a device can heat two different aerosol-forming substrates to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate volatilize without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article or as part of a cartridge. One or more aerosol-generating articles and the cartridge can be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device, such as a heating chamber. An induction coil can be disposed in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol-generating substrate when inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device. An additional aerosol-forming substrate can be vaporized within the aerosol-generating device to form a hybrid aerosol-generating device.

[0003] It would be desirable to have a more versatile hybrid aerosol generator. It would be desirable to have a more compact hybrid aerosol generator. It would be desirable to have a less complex hybrid aerosol generator. It would be desirable to have a hybrid aerosol generator with improved airflow through two different aerosol-forming substrates. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a hybrid aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a main body. The main body may comprise a power source. The main body may be located at a distal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may further comprise an upper portion. The upper portion may comprise a cavity. The cavity may comprise a proximal substrate receiving portion configured to receive a first aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity may comprise a distal substrate receiving portion configured to receive a second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be different from the second aerosol-forming substrate. The upper portion may be located at a proximal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device. The hybrid aerosol generating device may further comprise an induction coil. The induction coil may extend parallel to a longitudinal axis of the hybrid aerosol generating device, at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a hybrid aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device comprises a main body. The main body comprises a power source. The main body is disposed at a distal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device further comprises an upper portion. The upper portion comprises a cavity. The cavity comprises a proximal substrate receiving portion configured to receive a first aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity comprises a distal substrate receiving portion configured to receive a second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-forming substrate is different from the second aerosol-forming substrate. The upper portion is disposed at a proximal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device. The hybrid aerosol generating device further comprises an induction coil. The induction coil extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the hybrid aerosol generating device, at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system may further comprise a first aerosol-generating article comprising a first aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generation system may comprise a second aerosol-generating article comprising a second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-forming substrate may be different from the second aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generation system may comprise a hybrid aerosol generation device. The hybrid aerosol generation device may comprise a main body. The main body may comprise a power source. The main body may be located at the distal end of the hybrid aerosol generation device. The hybrid aerosol generation device may further comprise an upper portion. The upper portion may comprise a cavity. The cavity may include a proximal substrate receiving portion configured to receive the first aerosol-generating article. The cavity may include a distal substrate receiving portion configured to receive the second aerosol-generating article. The cavity may further comprise an airflow channel extending along a longitudinal axis of the cavity. The upper portion may be located at the proximal end of the hybrid aerosol generation device. The hybrid aerosol generating device may further comprise an induction coil, which may extend parallel to a longitudinal axis of the hybrid aerosol generating device, and which may extend at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system comprises a first aerosol-generating article comprising a first aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generation system comprises a second aerosol-generating article comprising a second aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-forming substrate is different from the second aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generation system comprises a hybrid aerosol generating device. The hybrid aerosol generating device comprises a body. The body comprises a power source. The body is disposed at a distal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device. The hybrid aerosol generating device comprises an upper portion. The upper portion comprises a cavity. The cavity comprises a proximal substrate receiving portion configured to receive the first aerosol-generating article. The cavity comprises a distal substrate receiving portion configured to receive the second aerosol-generating article. The cavity further comprises an airflow channel extending along a longitudinal axis of the cavity. The upper portion is disposed at a proximal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device. The hybrid aerosol generating device further comprises an induction coil. The induction coil extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hybrid aerosol generating device, the induction coil extending at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0008] By providing an induction coil that extends at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion, it is facilitated that both a first aerosol-forming substrate received in the proximal substrate receiving portion and a second aerosol-forming substrate received in the distal substrate receiving portion can be heated simultaneously. Furthermore, both the first and second aerosol-forming substrates can be heated by a (single) induction coil. Preferably, the aerosol-generating device includes only a single induction coil. This simplifies the device.

[0009] The induction coil can be controlled by a controller to simultaneously heat the first and second aerosol-forming substrates. Alternatively, the electrical contacts of the induction coil or at least one of the electrical contacts of the induction coil can be configured as sliding contacts. The sliding contacts can be configured to slide axially, thus allowing the induction coil to contact at different points. This allows alternating current to flow through only a portion of the induction coil. As a result, heating zones can be created. Illustratively, a first heating zone can cover the proximal substrate receiving region, and a second heating zone can cover the distal substrate receiving region. Thus, the controller can control the heating of the first and second substrates independently of each other. Alternatively, or additionally, three or more electrical contacts for the induction coil can be provided at fixed positions along the axial length of the induction coil. These contacts can enable predetermined heating zones, such as a first heating zone covering the proximal substrate receiving region and a second heating zone covering the distal substrate receiving region. The controller can control induction activation in the first heating zone region independently of the second heating zone. The controller may further be configured to supply currents of different frequencies or intensities to the different electrical contacts, thereby optimizing the heat generated in the different heating zones, which may be beneficial if different heating regimes are desired for the first and second aerosol-forming substrates.

[0010] As used herein, the terms "proximal," "distal," "downstream," and "upstream" are used to describe the relative position of a component or portion of a component of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol generating device during use.

[0011] The body may be located at the distal end of the aerosol generating device. The body may be located distal to the upper portion. The body may include a controller, as described in more detail below. The body may be located directly abutting the upper portion. The body may have the same diameter as the upper portion. The body may have a circular or elliptical cross section. The body may be configured to be held by a user. The body may have a body housing facing the surrounding environment. The body housing may contain further components of the body, in particular a power source and a controller.

[0012] The aerosol generating device may include an electric circuit. The electric circuit may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of the controller. The electric circuit may be disposed within the main body. The electric circuit may include further electronic components. The electric circuit may be configured to regulate power supply to the induction coil. Power may be supplied to the induction coil continuously after activation of the aerosol generating device, or may be supplied intermittently, such as with each puff. Power may be supplied to the induction coil in the form of current pulses.

[0013] The power source may be configured as a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium iron phosphate battery, a lithium titanate battery, or a lithium polymer battery). Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for storage of energy sufficient for one or more use experiences; for example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosol for a period of approximately six minutes, or a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of puffs, or discontinuous activation of the induction coil.

[0014] The upper portion may be located at the proximal end of the aerosol generating device. The upper portion may be located proximal to the body. The upper portion may be located directly against the body. The upper portion may have the same diameter as the body. The upper portion may have a circular or oval cross section. The upper portion may be configured to be gripped by a user. The upper portion may have an upper housing that faces the ambient environment.

[0015] The top portion may be configured as a mouth end through which the aerosol exits the aerosol generating device and is delivered to the user during use. The mouth end may also be referred to as a proximal end. During use, a user draws on the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generating device to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, a user may directly draw on an aerosol-generating article inserted into an opening at the proximal end of the aerosol generating device. The opening at the proximal end may be an opening to a cavity. The cavity may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. Additionally or alternatively, the cavity may be configured to receive a cartridge. The cavity may be configured to receive both the aerosol-generating article and the cavity. The cavity may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating article through the opening at the proximal end. The cavity may be configured to receive the cartridge through an additional opening, such as a side door, as described in more detail below. Alternatively, the cavity may be configured to receive both the cavity and the aerosol-generating article through the opening at the proximal end. As a further alternative, the cavity may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article through the further opening and a cartridge through the opening at the proximal end.

[0016] The cartridge is preferably configured as an aerosol-generating cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0017] The cavity of the aerosol generating device may have an open end at the opening at the proximal end into which the aerosol-generating article and / or cartridge is inserted. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for the provision of an air opening disposed within the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be located upstream / distal to the cavity. The open end may be located downstream / proximal to the cavity. The cavity may have an elongated extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal axis may be a direction extending along the longitudinal central axis between the open end and the closed end. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

[0018] The cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received within the cavity. The cavity may have a circular cross-section. The cavity may have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0019] By providing a cavity that includes an airflow channel extending along the central longitudinal axis of the cavity, it is possible to use both aerosol-generating articles comprising solid aerosol-generating substrates and aerosol-generating articles comprising liquid aerosol-generating substrates in either the distal or proximal substrate receiving portion, which may increase flexibility in use of the device.

[0020] The proximal or mouth end or top of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the downstream end, and the distal end or body of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating device may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on their relative location between the proximal, downstream, or mouth end of the aerosol-generating device and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0021] The proximal substrate receiving portion may be disposed proximal to the distal substrate receiving portion. The proximal substrate receiving portion may be disposed downstream of the distal substrate receiving portion. The proximal substrate receiving portion may be referred to as a downstream substrate receiving portion. The distal substrate receiving portion may be referred to as an upstream substrate receiving portion. The central longitudinal axis of the proximal substrate receiving portion may be the same as the central longitudinal axis of the distal substrate receiving portion. In other words, the proximal substrate receiving portion and the distal substrate receiving portion may be aligned on a shared central longitudinal axis. This shared central longitudinal axis is preferably the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. This shared central longitudinal axis is preferably the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation device.

[0022] A hybrid aerosol-generating device can be used with only a single aerosol-forming substrate (which can then be received in either the proximal substrate receiving portion or the distal substrate receiving portion). In this case, the hybrid aerosol-generating device is configured as a hybrid aerosol-generating device, but in practice is primarily used as a non-hybrid device for aerosolizing one type of aerosol-forming substrate. The use of a second, different aerosol-forming substrate is optional. Thus, an aerosol-generating device can be transformed from an aerosol-generating device that uses only a first aerosol-forming substrate to a hybrid aerosol-generating device that also uses a second, different aerosol-forming substrate.

[0023] The first aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a solid aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, the first aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0024] One or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, and preferably may be, a non-burn, heated tobacco substrate as described below. One or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, and preferably may be, a solid aerosol-forming substrate as described below. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. Alternatively, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may not contain nicotine. One or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, and preferably may be, a plant-based substrate. One or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may contain cannabidiol (CBD) or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for medical use. One or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, and preferably may be, a gel-based substrate as described below. One or both of the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, or preferably be, a liquid aerosol-forming substrate as described below.

[0025] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" relates to a substrate capable of emitting one or more volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be emitted by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating article or a smoking article.

[0026] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an aerosol former that facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0027] When the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, in some embodiments, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more of powder, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti, strips, or sheets containing one or more of herb leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco vein fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, cast leaf tobacco, and expanded tobacco. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be in loose form or may be provided in a suitable container or cartridge. Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating of the substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may also contain capsules, for example, containing additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds, which may melt during heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0028] As used herein, "homogenized tobacco" refers to a material formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. The homogenized tobacco may be in the form of a sheet. The homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol former content of greater than 5% on a dry weight basis. Alternatively, the homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol former content of between 5% and 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. A sheet of homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco obtained by grinding or otherwise combining one or both of tobacco lamina and tobacco stem. Alternatively, or additionally, the sheet of homogenized tobacco material may include one or more of tobacco dust, tobacco fines, and other particulate tobacco by-products formed, for example, during tobacco processing, handling, and shipping. The homogenized tobacco material sheet may include one or more inherent binders (i.e., tobacco intrinsic binders), one or more exogenous binders (i.e., tobacco extrinsic binders), or combinations thereof to aid in the cohesion of the particulate tobacco, although alternatively or additionally, the homogenized tobacco material sheet may include other additives, including, but not limited to, tobacco and non-tobacco fibers, aerosol formers, humectants, plasticizers, flavorants, fillers, aqueous and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof.

[0029] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may be in the form of a powder, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti, strips, or sheets. Alternatively, the carrier may be a tubular carrier having a thin layer of solid substrate deposited on its inner surface, on its outer surface, or on both its inner and outer surfaces. Such a tubular carrier may be formed, for example, of paper or paper-like material, nonwoven carbon fiber mat, low-mass open-mesh metal screen, or perforated metal foil, or any other thermally stable polymeric matrix.

[0030] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises an assembly of crimped sheets of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "crimped sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Preferably, when the aerosol-generating article is assembled, the substantially parallel ridges or corrugations extend along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. This advantageously facilitates assembling the crimped sheets of homogenized tobacco material to form the aerosol-forming substrate. However, it will be appreciated that a crimped sheet of homogenized tobacco material for inclusion in an aerosol-generating article may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations that are disposed at an acute or obtuse angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is assembled. In certain embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an assembly of sheets of homogenized tobacco material that are substantially evenly textured across substantially its entire surface. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an assemblage of a crimped sheet of homogenized tobacco material that includes a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations that are substantially evenly spaced across the width of the sheet.

[0031] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the surface of the carrier in the form of, for example, a sheet, foam, gel, or slurry. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited over the entire surface of the carrier or, alternatively, may be deposited in a pattern to provide a non-uniform flavor delivery during use.

[0032] The aerosol-forming substrate is a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol. The volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a plant-derived material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a non-tobacco-containing material. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a homogenized plant-derived material.

[0033] The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former may be any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol during use and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperatures of the system. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate). The aerosol former may be a polyhydric alcohol or a mixture thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin. The aerosol former may be propylene glycol. The aerosol former may include both glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0034] When the aerosol-forming substrate is provided as a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and ingredients, such as flavorings. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, and a natural or artificial flavoring. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may have a nicotine concentration of about 0.5% to about 10% (e.g., about 2%). The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be contained within a liquid reservoir of an aerosol-generating article, in which case the aerosol-generating article may be labeled as a cartridge. The cartridge is preferably configured as a removable cartridge. A removable cartridge can be replaced with a new cartridge when the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is depleted.

[0035] The cartridge may include a reservoir containing or adapted to contain a liquid retention material or liquid aerosol-forming substrate. As used herein, the term "liquid retention material" refers to a high-retention or high-release material (HRM) for storing a liquid. The liquid retention material is configured to essentially retain at least a portion of the liquid, such that this portion is unavailable for aerosolization before leaving the retention material. The use of a liquid retention material reduces the risk of leakage in the event of a cartridge failure or crack, since the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is safely retained within the retention material. Advantageously, this can prevent the aerosol-generating article from leaking.

[0036] An aerosol-generating article may be provided that includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor may include a first susceptor material and a second susceptor material, and the first susceptor material may be disposed in close physical contact with the second susceptor material. The second susceptor material preferably has a Curie temperature lower than 500°C. The first susceptor material is preferably primarily used to heat the susceptor when the susceptor is placed in a fluctuating electromagnetic field. Any suitable material may be used. For example, the first susceptor material may be aluminum or an iron-based material such as stainless steel. The second susceptor material is preferably primarily used to indicate when the susceptor has reached a specific temperature (the Curie temperature of the second susceptor material). The Curie temperature of the second susceptor material can be used to regulate the temperature of the entire susceptor during operation. Therefore, the Curie temperature of the second susceptor material should be below the ignition point of the aerosol-forming substrate.Suitable materials for the second susceptor material can include nickel and certain nickel alloys.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of elements assembled in the form of a rod within a wrapper having a mouth end and a distal end upstream of the mouth end, the plurality of elements including an aerosol-forming substrate located at or toward the distal end of the rod. The aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor is preferably an elongated susceptor having a width of 3 mm to 6 mm and a thickness of 10 micrometers to 200 micrometers. The susceptor is preferably positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate. It is particularly preferred that the elongated susceptor is radially centrally located within the aerosol-forming substrate, preferably extending along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-forming substrate. The length of the elongated susceptor is preferably 8 mm to 15 mm, for example 10 mm to 14 mm, e.g., about 12 mm or 13 mm.

[0038] The cartridge may comprise a hollow tubular susceptor arrangement as disclosed in EP21203770.9, the contents of which regarding the structural features of the cartridge are incorporated herein by reference. The cartridge may comprise a hollow tubular wick element. The hollow tubular wick element may coaxially surround the susceptor arrangement. The cartridge may include a hollow tubular liquid reservoir. The hollow tubular liquid reservoir may coaxially surround the wick element.

[0039] The cartridge may include an airflow path extending along a longitudinal central axis within the hollow tubular susceptor arrangement. The cartridge airflow path may extend from a distal end of the cartridge to a proximal end of the cartridge. The distal end of the cartridge may be the upstream end. The proximal end of the cartridge may be the downstream end.

[0040] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. For example, the aerosol-generating article may be a smoking article that generates an aerosol that can be inhaled directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating article may be disposable. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the aerosol-generating article is a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0041] The aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially elongated. The aerosol-generating article may have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially rod-shaped. The aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially elongated. The aerosol-forming substrate may also have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length. The aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially rod-shaped.

[0042] The aerosol-generating article may have an overall length of between approximately 30 mm and approximately 100 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of between approximately 5 mm and approximately 12 mm. The aerosol-generating article may include a filter plug. The filter plug may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter plug may be a cellulose acetate filter plug. In one embodiment, the filter plug is approximately 7 mm long, but may have a length of between approximately 5 mm and approximately 10 mm.

[0043] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has an overall length of approximately 45 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 mm. Furthermore, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a length of approximately 10 mm. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a length of approximately 12 mm. Furthermore, the diameter of the aerosol-forming substrate may be from approximately 5 mm to approximately 12 mm. The aerosol-generating article may comprise an outer paper wrapper. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article may include a separator between the aerosol-forming substrate and the filter plug. The separator may be approximately 18 mm, but may range from approximately 5 mm to approximately 25 mm.

[0044] As used herein, "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article, such as part of a smoking article. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article other than the cartridge. As described herein, it is particularly preferred to provide a first aerosol-forming substrate and a different second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the aerosol-generating article and the cartridge, respectively. The aerosol-generating device may be a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating device may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a housing, an electrical circuit, a power source, a heating chamber, and an induction coil, as described herein.

[0045] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "smoking", in relation to a device, article, system, substrate or otherwise, does not refer to conventional smoking, in which the aerosol-forming substrate is completely or at least partially combusted. The aerosol-generating device of the present invention is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate but above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released, in order to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0046] The proximal substrate receiving portion may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article containing a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The distal substrate receiving portion may be configured to receive a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, the proximal substrate receiving portion may be configured to receive a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The distal substrate receiving portion may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article containing a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0047] The receiver configured to receive the cartridge may be configured to receive the cartridge laterally. Preferably, the distal substrate receiver is configured to receive the cartridge laterally.

[0048] Each receptacle may be configured to allow a user to laterally insert a cartridge into the respective receptacle, and when the aerosol-forming substrate contained within the cartridge has been used, the user may laterally reverse the used cartridge and insert a new cartridge.

[0049] The receiver configured to receive the aerosol-generating article may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating article axially. Preferably, the proximal substrate receiver is configured to receive the aerosol-generating article axially.

[0050] Each receptacle may be configured to allow a user to axially insert an aerosol-generating article into the respective receptacle, and when the aerosol-forming substrate contained within the aerosol-generating article is used, the user may axially remove the used aerosol-generating article and insert a new aerosol-generating article.

[0051] The term "axial / axially" may refer to a direction along or parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. The term "lateral / laterally" may refer to a direction perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0052] The upper housing portion may be configured to be axially movable relative to the distal substrate receiving portion to allow for opening and closing of the distal substrate receiving portion. The movable housing portion may also be referred to as the first housing portion.

[0053] The upper portion may include a second housing portion fixed relative to the body. The first housing portion of the upper portion may be configured to be movable relative to the second housing portion of the upper portion. The second housing portion may include a distal substrate receiving portion. The distal substrate receiving portion may be made accessible by movement of the first housing portion relative to the second housing portion.

[0054] In particular, a lateral opening can be formed in the distal substrate receptacle by relative movement of the first housing portion with respect to the second housing portion. More specifically, a user can move the first housing portion axially away from the second housing portion so that the lateral opening to the distal substrate receptacle opens. The user can then insert a new cartridge into the distal substrate receptacle or remove a used cartridge from the distal substrate receptacle (or both).

[0055] The distal substrate receptacle may be formed by a half-tube. The half-tube may be a tube with a lateral opening cut therein. The lateral opening cut therein may allow for insertion / removal of a cartridge into / from the distal substrate receptacle, as described herein. The distal substrate receptacle, particularly the lateral opening cut therein, may be closed when the first housing portion is in the first position. In the first position of the first housing portion, the first housing portion may be at a first location near the body. This first position may be a distal position of the first housing portion relative to the body. The first position may also be referred to as a retracted position. When the first housing portion moves relative to the second housing portion, the first housing portion may be at a second position away from the body. The second position may be a proximal position of the first housing portion relative to the body. The second position may be referred to as an extended position.

[0056] The upper first housing portion may be slidably connected to the upper second housing portion. The first housing portion may be axially slidable relative to the second housing portion. The first housing portion may include a first sliding element, and the second housing portion may include a second sliding element, which may interact to enable sliding movement between the first and second housing portions. Illustratively, the first housing portion may include a groove and the second housing portion may include a protrusion, or vice versa. The protrusion may be disposed within the groove to facilitate sliding movement between the first and second housing portions.

[0057] One or both of the first and second housing parts may include a guide element for guiding sliding movement between the first and second housing parts. The guide element and the first and second sliding elements may be one and the same element that allows sliding movement between the first and second housing parts. The guide element may prevent rotation of the first housing part relative to the second housing part.

[0058] The upper portion may include a locking element. The locking element may be configured to prevent disengagement of the first housing portion from the distal substrate receiving portion during axial movement of the housing portion relative to the distal substrate receiving portion. The locking element may prevent the upper first housing portion from disengaging from the upper second housing portion. The locking element may include a stop. The stop may be disposed within the groove such that the protrusion stops when it reaches the stop. The locking element may limit axial movement of the first housing portion relative to the second housing portion.

[0059] One or both of the first housing portion and the distal substrate receiving portion may include a biasing element. The biasing element may be configured to bias the first housing portion away from the distal substrate receiving portion. The second housing portion may include a biasing element.

[0060] The biasing element may be a spring. The biasing element may automatically move the first housing portion to the second position to allow a user to access the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0061] One or both of the first housing portion and the distal substrate receiving portion may include a release element configured to release the biasing element upon actuation by a user.

[0062] The release element can be a button. The release element can be located on the outer periphery of the first housing portion of the second housing portion to allow easy user access to the release element. The release element can hold the first housing portion in the first position. When the first housing portion is released from the first position by activating the release element, the first housing portion can be automatically moved to the second position by the biasing force of the biasing element. The user can return the first housing portion and the first position against the biasing force of the biasing element. When the release element is activated again, the first housing portion can be again held in the first position.

[0063] The distal substrate receiving portion may include a door configured to allow lateral insertion of the cartridge. The door may be part of the upper second housing portion.

[0064] The door may be slidably mounted. The slidable mounting of the door may allow for sliding movement to allow for lateral insertion of the cartridge. The door may be slidably mounted to the upper second housing portion. The door may be slidably mounted such that the door can slide into the second housing portion during sliding movement. Alternatively, the door may be hingedly mounted to the second housing portion or the distal substrate receiving portion. In other words, the door may include a hinge such that the door can be pivoted open to allow lateral access to the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0065] The sealing element may be provided on or adjacent to the door. The sealing element may seal the door when the door is closed. The sealing element may hermetically seal the door when the door is closed. The sealing element may reduce or prevent air from leaking out the door or the sides of the door. As a result, the airflow channel adjacent to the door is not obstructed by the airflow channel through the door, particularly the distal substrate receiving portion. The sealing element may include or be configured as an O-ring. The sealing element may include or be configured as a mating sealing member.

[0066] In further embodiments, the door may include a portion or section of the induction coil. The induction coil may be partially housed within the door. A portion of the induction coil may be disposed within the door. One or both of the electrical contacts of the induction coil may be connected to an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit may be open when the door is open. The electrical circuit may be closed when the door is closed. The electrical circuit may electrically connect the induction coil to one or both of the controller and the power source. The door may be configured to have dual functions. A first function may be to allow insertion and removal of a cartridge. A second function may be to enable operation of the induction coil by closing the electrical circuit and disable operation of the induction coil by opening the electrical circuit. A connection element may be provided on one or both of the door and the distal substrate receptacle. The connection element may be configured to attach to the door. The connection element may further enable transmission of electrical energy to the door. The connection element may be configured to enable transmission of electrical energy to the door when the door is closed. The connecting element may include a spring-loaded pin or tab at the distal base receiving portion that engages a corresponding conductive tab in the door or door frame to enable transfer of electrical energy to the door when the door is closed. The connecting element may hold the door closed after the door is closed. The connecting element may include a retention element for holding the door closed after the door is closed.

[0067] The induction coil may extend completely over one or both of the distal and proximal substrate receiving portions.

[0068] Thus, the entire length of the distal substrate receiving portion and the proximal substrate receiving portion can be heated by a single induction coil.

[0069] One or both of the main body and the distal substrate receiving portion may include an air inlet that allows ambient air to be drawn into the airflow channel of the hybrid aerosol generating device. The air inlet may also be disposed within the upper portion, preferably within the second housing portion of the upper portion. The air inlet may be disposed in a sidewall of the main body or the upper portion.

[0070] The airflow channel can include a first portion that fluidly connects the air inlet with the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0071] The first portion of the airflow channel may include an upstream portion and a downstream portion. The downstream portion may extend along a central longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0072] The first section can be divided into upstream and downstream sections with different orientations, allowing the upstream and downstream sections to have different airflow directions. The downstream section, which extends along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity, can connect to a central airflow through the cavity.

[0073] The upstream portion may provide a fluid connection to an air inlet disposed non-axially relative to the airflow channel. The upstream portion may have a lateral extension. The upstream portion may extend perpendicular to the extension of the downstream portion.

[0074] Alternatively, the air inlet may be disposed at the proximal end of the top portion, with a 180 degree rotation within the airflow channel fluidly connecting the air inlet to the distal substrate receiving portion.

[0075] By providing a 180 degree turn in the airflow channel, ambient air can be drawn into the aerosol generator in a counter-direction parallel to the hot airflow channel of the aerosol generator, preheating the ambient air before it reaches the cavity.

[0076] The distal substrate receiving portion or the upper second housing portion may include a second portion of the airflow channel fluidly connecting the distal substrate receiving portion with the proximal substrate receiving portion.

[0077] Advantageously, a single air inlet and a single airflow channel can be provided to allow airflow through both the distal and proximal substrate receiving portions. In particular, air can flow first through the distal substrate receiving portion and then, downstream of the distal substrate receiving portion, through the proximal substrate receiving portion. Advantageously, the first and second aerosol-forming substrates can be selected so that an optimized aerosol is generated by passing air through the distal substrate receiving portion and then the proximal substrate receiving portion.

[0078] A second portion of the airflow channel may fluidly connect the distal substrate receiving portion with the proximal substrate receiving portion through the separation element.

[0079] The separation element may be configured as a mechanical separation element. The separation element may comprise a one-way valve that allows airflow only in a direction from the distal substrate receiving portion to the proximal substrate receiving portion.

[0080] A second portion of the airflow channel may extend along the longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0081] The longitudinal axis of the cavity is preferably the central longitudinal axis of the cavity, more preferably the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

[0082] The top portion may include a third portion of the airflow channel fluidly connecting the proximal substrate receiving portion with the proximal opening of the cavity in the top portion.

[0083] A third portion of the airflow channel may extend along the longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0084] The airflow channel may extend along a central longitudinal axis through one or both of the first and second aerosol-generating articles. The airflow channel may extend along a central longitudinal axis parallel to the susceptor elements of the aerosol-generating articles. Providing an airflow channel extending centrally through one or both of the first aerosol-generating articles may enable a simple central airflow through one or both of the aerosol-generating articles. The airflow channel may extend along a central longitudinal axis through one or both of the liquid and solid aerosol-generating articles when one or both of the aerosol-generating articles can be inserted into a cavity. The airflow channel may extend along a central longitudinal axis through one or both of the aerosol-generating articles when one or both of the aerosol-generating articles can be inserted into a cavity. This may increase the flexibility of use of the device. The present invention further relates to a system comprising a hybrid aerosol-generating device as described herein and an aerosol-generating article including a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a heating element. The heating element may include a susceptor material.

[0085] The present invention further relates to a system comprising a hybrid aerosol-generating device as described herein and an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating article comprising a heating element, the heating element comprising a susceptor material.

[0086] The heating element may also be referred to as an induction heating element. The heating element is preferably not configured as a resistance heating element. The induction heating element may include a susceptor. Preferably, the induction heating element is configured as a susceptor. Generally, a susceptor is a material that has the ability to generate heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When placed within an alternating magnetic field, if the susceptor is conductive, eddy currents are typically induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is magnetic, another effect that typically contributes to heating is commonly referred to as hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss occurs primarily due to the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor, as their magnetic orientation aligns with the alternating induced magnetic field. Another effect that contributes to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains expand or contract within the susceptor. Generally, all of these changes that occur within the susceptor at the nanoscale or below generate heat within the susceptor, and are therefore referred to as "hysteresis loss." Thus, if the susceptor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and the generation of eddy currents will contribute to the heating of the susceptor. If the susceptor is magnetic but not conductive, hysteresis loss will be the only means by which the susceptor will heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. In accordance with the present invention, the susceptor can be conductive or magnetic, or both conductive and magnetic. The alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil heats the susceptor, which then transfers heat to the aerosol-forming substrate, thereby forming the aerosol. Heat transfer may be primarily by conduction. Such heat transfer is best when the susceptor is in intimate thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0087] According to the present invention, preferably, a single induction coil heats two separate susceptors: a first susceptor that is part of the aerosol-generating article; and a second susceptor that is part of the cartridge. Each susceptor may be in the form of particles that are adjacent to or distributed within one or both of the first and second aerosol-forming substrates.

[0088] The present invention further relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising a hybrid aerosol-generating device as described herein and a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may comprise a heating element. The heating element may comprise a susceptor material.

[0089] The present invention further relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising a hybrid aerosol-generating device as described herein and a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the cartridge comprising a heating element, the heating element comprising a susceptor material.

[0090] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising a hybrid aerosol generating device as described herein, an aerosol generating article as described herein, and a cartridge as described herein.

[0091] The system further comprises a first aerosol-generating article comprising a solid or liquid aerosol-forming substrate and a heating element. The heating element may comprise a susceptor material. The system further comprises a second aerosol-generating article comprising a solid or liquid aerosol-forming substrate and a heating element. The heating element may comprise a susceptor material.

[0092] The system may comprise two different aerosol-generating articles, each comprising a solid aerosol-generating substrate.The system may comprise two different aerosol-generating articles, each comprising a liquid aerosol-generating substrate.The system may comprise an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-generating substrate and an aerosol-generating article comprising a liquid aerosol-generating substrate. [Example]

[0093] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of which may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0094] Example 1 A hybrid aerosol generating device, comprising: a main body including a power source, the main body being disposed at a distal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device; a top portion including a cavity, the cavity including a proximal substrate receiving portion configured to receive a first aerosol-forming substrate, and the cavity including a distal substrate receiving portion configured to receive a second aerosol-forming substrate, the first aerosol-forming substrate being different from the second aerosol-forming substrate, the top portion being disposed at a proximal end of the hybrid aerosol-generating device; A hybrid aerosol generating device, further comprising an induction coil, the induction coil extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hybrid aerosol generating device, at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion. Example 2. the proximal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate and the distal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive a cartridge comprising a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; or 2. The hybrid aerosol generating device of Example 1, wherein the proximal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and the distal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article containing a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 3. 3. The hybrid aerosol generating device of Example 2, wherein the receiving portion is configured to receive the cartridge and is configured to receive the cartridge laterally. Example 4. A hybrid aerosol generating device as described in Example 2 or 3, wherein the upper housing portion is configured to be axially movable relative to the distal substrate receiving portion to enable opening and closing of the distal substrate receiving portion. Example 5. A hybrid aerosol generating device as described in Example 4, wherein the upper portion is provided with a locking element, and the locking element is configured to prevent the housing portion from separating from the distal substrate receiving portion during axial movement of the housing portion relative to the distal substrate receiving portion. Example 6 A hybrid aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 4 and 5, wherein one or both of the housing portion and the distal substrate receiving portion are provided with a biasing element, and the biasing element is configured to bias the housing portion away from the distal substrate receiving portion. Example 7 A hybrid aerosol generating device as described in Example 6, wherein one or both of the housing portion and the distal substrate receiving portion comprises a release element, the release element being configured to release the biasing element upon user operation. Example 8 4. The hybrid aerosol generating device of example 3, wherein the distal substrate receiving portion comprises a door configured to allow lateral insertion of a cartridge. Example 9. 9. A hybrid aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the induction coil extends completely over one or both of the distal and proximal substrate receiving portions. Example 10. 10. The hybrid aerosol generator of any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the induction coil extends completely above the upper cavity. Example 11 A hybrid aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 10, wherein one or both of the main body and the distal substrate receiving portion includes an air intake port that allows ambient air to be drawn into the airflow channel of the hybrid aerosol generating device. Example 12 12. The hybrid aerosol generating device of Example 11, wherein the airflow channel comprises a first portion that fluidly connects the air inlet with the distal substrate receiving portion. Example 13 13. A hybrid aerosol generating device as described in either of Examples 11 and 12, wherein the distal substrate receiving portion comprises a second portion of the airflow channel fluidly connecting the distal substrate receiving portion with the proximal substrate receiving portion. Example 14. 14. The hybrid aerosol generating device of Example 13, wherein a second portion of the airflow channel fluidly connects the distal substrate receiving portion with the proximal substrate receiving portion via a separation element. Example 15. 15. A hybrid aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 13 and 14, wherein the second portion of the airflow channel extends along the longitudinal axis of the cavity. Example 16. A hybrid aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 11 to 15, wherein the top comprises a third portion of the airflow channel fluidly connecting the proximal substrate receiving portion with the proximal opening of the cavity in the top. Example 17. 17. The hybrid aerosol generating device of Example 16, wherein the third portion of the airflow channel extends along the longitudinal axis of the cavity. Example 18. A system comprising the hybrid aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 17 and an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises a heating element, and the heating element comprises a susceptor material. Example 19. A system comprising the hybrid aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 17 and a cartridge comprising a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the cartridge comprises a heating element, and the heating element comprises a susceptor material. Example 20. A system comprising the hybrid aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, the aerosol-generating article according to Example 18, and the cartridge according to Example 19.

[0095] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applied to other embodiments of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0096] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0097] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of an aerosol generating device according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of an alternative aerosol generating device. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A shows the movement of the components of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B shows the movement of the components of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C shows the movement of the parts of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional top view of the movement of the components of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional top view of the movement of the components of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A shows the movement of the components of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B shows the movement of the parts of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A shows a cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article and cartridge. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B shows a cross-sectional side view of the aerosol-generating article and cartridge. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A shows a different use of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B shows a different use of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment for inserting the cartridge. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0098] 1 shows an aerosol generating device 10, more specifically, an upper portion 12 of the aerosol generating device 10, and a body 14 of the aerosol generating device 10. The upper portion 12 is disposed proximal to the body 14. The upper portion 12 is disposed in contact with the body 14.

[0099] The top portion 12 includes a cavity 16. The cavity 16 has a circular cross-sectional shape. Alternatively, the cavity 16 may have a non-circular cross-section. Illustratively, the cavity 16 may have a rectangular or irregularly shaped cross-section. The cavity 16 includes a proximal substrate receptacle 18 and a distal substrate receptacle 20. The proximal substrate receptacle 18 is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article 22 including a solid aerosol-forming substrate 24. The distal substrate receptacle 20 is configured to receive a cartridge 26 including a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28.

[0100] The proximal substrate receptacle 18 and the distal substrate receptacle 20 may have the same diameter. Alternatively, the proximal substrate receptacle 18 and the distal substrate receptacle 20 may have different diameters. Illustratively, the distal substrate receptacle 20 may have a smaller diameter than the proximal substrate receptacle 18. This may make it clear to a user which portion 18, 20 must be inserted into the aerosol-generating article 22. Alternatively or additionally, one or both of the proximal substrate receptacle 18 and the distal substrate receptacle 20 may have complementary or unique shapes. The shape of one or both of the proximal substrate receptacle 18 and the distal substrate receptacle 20 may be such that only the desired element (such as the aerosol-generating article 22 or cartridge 26) can be inserted into the respective portion 18, 20. Illustratively, the proximal substrate receptacle 18 may be shaped to receive only the aerosol-generating article 22. Illustratively, the proximal substrate receptacle 18 can be shaped such that the cartridge 26 does not fit within the proximal substrate receptacle 18. Illustratively, the distal substrate receptacle 20 can be shaped to receive only the cartridge 26. Illustratively, the distal substrate receptacle 20 can be shaped such that the aerosol-generating article 22 does not fit within the substrate receptacle 20.

[0101] Cavity 16 has an open proximal end 30 into which aerosol-generating article 22 can be inserted. Optionally, cartridge 26 can also be inserted into cavity 16 via open proximal end 30 of cavity 16. Alternative options for inserting cartridge 26 are described in more detail below with reference to Figures 3-5 and 8.

[0102] A user can inhale the generated aerosol by sucking on the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article 22. Thus, the aerosol-generating article 22 is positioned proximal or downstream of the cartridge 26, which is positioned distal or upstream of the aerosol-generating article 22. Consequently, the proximal substrate receiving portion 18 is positioned proximal or downstream of the distal substrate receiving portion 20, which is positioned distal or upstream of the proximal substrate receiving portion 18.

[0103] The aerosol generating device 10 further comprises a single induction coil 32. The induction coil 32 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cavity 16, at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion 18 and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion 20. Preferably, the induction coil 32 extends over an axial portion of the proximal substrate receiving portion 18 where the solid aerosol-forming substrate 24 of the aerosol-generating article 22 is disposed when the aerosol-generating article 22 is received in the proximal substrate receiving portion 18. Preferably, the induction coil 32 extends over an axial portion of the distal substrate receiving portion 20 where the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28 of the cartridge 26 is disposed when the cartridge 26 is received in the distal substrate receiving portion 20.

[0104] 1 further shows air inlet 34 disposed in the sidewall of body 14. Alternatively, air inlet 34 may be disposed in the sidewall of top 12. In both cases, air inlet 34 is fluidly connected to a first portion 36 of an airflow channel that fluidly connects air inlet 34 with the upstream or distal end of distal substrate receiving portion 20.

[0105] Thus, air can be drawn into and through the distal substrate receptacle 20 via the air inlet 34 and the first portion 36 of the airflow channel. The air is preferably drawn through the distal substrate receptacle 20 along the central longitudinal axis of the cavity 16. Downstream of the distal substrate receptacle 20, the airflow channel includes a second portion 38 that fluidly connects the distal substrate receptacle 20 with the proximal substrate receptacle 18. The second portion 38 of the airflow channel is preferably disposed along the central longitudinal axis of the cavity 16.

[0106] In the second portion 38 of the airflow channel, a separation element 35, such as a sidewall having an opening or a one-way valve, may be disposed to separate the distal substrate receiving portion 20 and the proximal substrate receiving portion 18. In other words, a separation element 35, such as a sidewall having an opening or a one-way valve, may be disposed between the distal substrate receiving portion 20 and the proximal substrate receiving portion 18. One of the cartridge 26 and the aerosol-generating article 22 may comprise a portion of the entire separation element 35. The cartridge 26 and the aerosol-generating article 22 may be stacked and may have a fluid channel therebetween. Alternatively, the cartridge 26 and the aerosol-generating article 22 may be configured to be connectable to each other prior to insertion into the cavity 16. The connection between the cartridge 26 and the aerosol-generating article 22 may be facilitated by the separation element 35.

[0107] Thus, after passing through distal substrate receiving portion 20, air is drawn into proximal substrate receiving portion 18. The airflow channel includes a final third portion 40 that fluidly connects proximal substrate receiving portion 18 with open proximal end 30 of cavity 16. Airflow channel third portion 40 is preferably disposed along the longitudinal central axis of cavity 16.

[0108] Figure 2 shows an alternative embodiment in which the upstream / downstream or distal / proximal order of the arrangement of the aerosol-generating article 22 and cartridge 26 is reversed. As shown in Figure 2, the aerosol-generating article 22 is disposed in the distal substrate receiving portion 20, and the cartridge 26 is received in the proximal substrate receiving portion 18. In this embodiment, air is first drawn through the aerosol-generating article 22 and then through the cartridge 26.

[0109] In this embodiment, the air inlet 34 is illustratively depicted as being disposed on a sidewall of the top 12. However, this arrangement of the air inlet 34 is exemplary, and the air inlet 34 may alternatively be disposed on the body 14, as shown in FIG.

[0110] 2 shows a mouthpiece 42 as an additional element of the aerosol-generating device 10, which can be beneficial in this arrangement of the aerosol-generating article 22 and cartridge 26 because it prevents the user from directly sucking on the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article 22.

[0111] 2 further shows induction coils 32 disposed around a proximal portion of cavity 16 and around a distal portion of cavity 16. The induction coils 32 may be connected in series such that the induction coils 32 function as a single induction coil. In this embodiment, only one pair of electrical connections may be required between the induction coils 32 and the power source. Alternatively, two different induction coils 32 may be provided, each connected to a separate power source. A first induction coil 32 may be disposed around the proximal portion of cavity 16, and a second induction coil 32 may be disposed around the distal portion of cavity 16.

[0112] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which the cartridge 26 can be laterally received in the distal substrate receiving portion 20. To facilitate this, the upper portion 12 includes a first housing portion 44 and a second housing portion 46 that can move relative to one another in a distal / proximal direction. In FIG. 3A, the first housing portion 44 is in a first position in which the upper portion 12 is disposed against the body 14. In FIG. 3B, the first housing portion 44 is in a second position in which the second housing portion 46 is disposed proximally from the body 14, making a lateral opening in the first housing portion 44 accessible. More specifically, the first housing portion 44 includes a half-tube 48 that includes a cut-out lateral opening 50. The cartridge 26 can then be inserted into the distal substrate receiving portion 20 through the cut-out lateral opening 50. The first housing portion 44 can then be pushed back to the first position, and the aerosol generating device 10 can be used. After the cartridge 26 has been used, the movement of the first housing portion 44 from the first position to the second position can be repeated to remove the used cartridge 26. A new cartridge 26 can then be reinserted.

[0113] In all embodiments of the present invention, as illustratively described with reference to FIG. 3 , the aerosol-generating device 10 can be operated with only a first aerosol-forming substrate received in the proximal substrate receiving portion 18 or with only a second aerosol-forming substrate received in the distal substrate receiving portion 20. Illustratively, it may be desirable to insert only a solid aerosol-forming substrate 24 into the proximal substrate receiving portion 18 and leave the distal substrate receiving portion 20 empty. In this case, air flows freely through the distal substrate receiving portion 20, forming part of the airflow channel. Illustratively, it may be desirable to insert only a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28 into the distal substrate receiving portion 20 and leave the proximal substrate receiving portion 18 empty. In this case, air flows freely through the proximal substrate receiving portion 18, forming part of the airflow channel.

[0114] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional top view of distal substrate receptacle 20. In Figure 4A, second housing portion 46 of upper portion 12 is shown in a second position. Cut-out lateral opening 50 is exposed so that cartridge 26 can be inserted into distal substrate receptacle 20. In Figure 4B, second housing portion 46 of upper portion 12 is shown in a first position. Cut-out lateral opening 50 is closed so that cartridge 26 is securely retained in distal substrate receptacle 20.

[0115] The upper portion 12 may be configured as a cap. One or both of the upper portion 12 and the first housing portion 44 may be configured to be removably attachable to the body 14. To this end, one or both of the upper portion 12 and the first housing portion 44 and the body 14 may include attachment means. The attachment means may be configured as one or more of a snap-lock attachment means, a bayonet-lock attachment means, a thread, an interference fit attachment means, or a male-female attachment means.

[0116] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment in which one or both of the upper portion 12 and the first housing portion 44 are not removable from the body 14. Instead, sliding movement of the first housing portion 44 of the upper portion 12 relative to the body 14 is facilitated to allow access to the distal substrate receiving portion 20. More specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates movement of the first housing portion 44 of the upper portion 12 relative to the second housing portion 46 of the upper portion 12 and relative to the body 14 of the aerosol generation device 10. In FIG. 5A, the first housing portion 44 is in a second position. Movement of the first housing portion 44 is limited to axial movement by providing a guide element 52 in the second housing portion 46. The first housing portion 44 includes a corresponding recess that interacts with the guide element 52 to facilitate axial sliding movement of the first housing portion 44 relative to the second housing portion 46.

[0117] To prevent first housing portion 44 of top 12 from disengaging from second housing portion 46 of top 12, second housing portion 46 includes a locking element 54. Locking element 54 acts as a stop to limit sliding movement of first housing portion 44 in the proximal direction.

[0118] FIG. 6A shows the aerosol-generating article 22 in more detail. The aerosol-generating article 22 is configured to be received in the proximal substrate receiving portion 18, as shown in FIG. 1, or in the distal substrate receiving portion 20, as shown in FIG. 2. The aerosol-generating article 22 includes a solid aerosol-forming substrate 24. Additionally, an article susceptor 56 is provided embedded in the solid aerosol-forming substrate 24 of the aerosol-generating article 22. When exposed to the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 32, the article susceptor 56 generates heat, thereby heating the solid aerosol-forming substrate 24. The article susceptor 56 may be disposed along the longitudinal central axis of the aerosol-generating article 22. The article susceptor 56 is preferably configured to generate the heat necessary to optimally heat the solid aerosol-forming substrate 24 when exposed to the alternating magnetic field of a single induction coil 32. To optimize the heat generated by the article susceptor 56, the article susceptor 56 may have one or more of a different heating surface, a different length, a different width, a different thickness, a different material, and a different cross-sectional shape than the cartridge susceptor described below.

[0119] FIG. 6B shows the cartridge 26 in more detail. The cartridge 26 is configured to be received in the distal substrate receiving portion 20, as shown in FIG. 1, or in the proximal substrate receiving portion 18, as shown in FIG. 2. The cartridge 26 includes a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28. Additionally, a cartridge susceptor 58 is provided on the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28 of the cartridge 26. When exposed to the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 32, the article susceptor 56 generates heat, thereby heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28. The cartridge 26 includes an internal central airflow channel that allows air to be drawn axially through the cartridge 26. The cartridge susceptor 58 is disposed along the longitudinal central axis of the cartridge 26. The cartridge susceptor 58 is preferably configured to generate the heat necessary to optimally heat the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28 when exposed to the alternating magnetic field of a single induction coil 32. To optimize the heat generated by the cartridge susceptor 58, the cartridge susceptor 58 may have one or more of a different heating surface, a different length, a different width, a different thickness, a different material, and a different cross-sectional shape than the article susceptor 56 described above. The differences between the article susceptor 56 and the cartridge susceptor 58 allow both the solid aerosol-forming substrate 24 and the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28 to be optimally heated, preferably using a single induction coil 32. The single induction coil 32 heats the article susceptor 56 and the cartridge susceptor 58 simultaneously.

[0120] 7 illustrates two options for use of the aerosol-generating device 10. In FIG. 7A, the cartridge 26 is not received in the distal substrate receiving portion 20. Thus, only the aerosol-generating article 22 is received in the proximal substrate receiving portion 18, or in both the proximal and distal substrate receiving portions 20. During use, only the solid aerosol-forming substrate 24 of the aerosol-generating article 22 is heated by the induction coil 32 and the article susceptor 56.

[0121] 7B, the cartridge 26 is not received in the distal substrate receiving portion 20. In addition, the aerosol-generating article 22 is received in the proximal substrate receiving portion 18. During use, the solid aerosol-forming substrate 24 of the aerosol-generating article 22 is heated by the induction coil 32 and the article susceptor 56. In addition, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 28 of the cartridge 26 is heated by the induction coil 32 and the cartridge susceptor 58. As the aerosol-generating article 22 abuts the cartridge 26, the aerosol-generating article 22 further protrudes from the proximal opening of the cartridge 26 in the upper portion 12.

[0122] 8 illustrates an alternative to the axial sliding configuration of the first and second housing portions 44, 46 of the upper portion 12 as described with reference to FIGS. 3-5. Instead, a door 60 is provided adjacent the distal substrate receptacle 20. The door 60 is hinged to a side wall of the upper portion 12. The door 60 can be opened to allow lateral access to the distal substrate receptacle 20, allowing insertion / removal of a cartridge 26 into / from the distal substrate receptacle 20.

[0123] The induction coil 32 may be partially housed in the door 60. The electrical contacts of the induction coil 32 may be connected to the power source of the main body 14 when the door 60 is closed. The door 60 may therefore have dual functions: allowing access to the distal substrate receptacle 20 and enabling / disabling operation of the induction coil 32 by closing / opening the door 60. The induction coil 32 of the door 60 may be operable when the door 60 is closed. Alternatively or additionally, a sensor may be provided that detects the presence of the cartridge 26 in the distal substrate receptacle 20. The controller may be configured to enable operation of the induction coil 32 when the sensor detects the presence of the cartridge 26 in the distal substrate receptacle 20.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: a first aerosol-generating article comprising a first aerosol-forming substrate; and a second aerosol-generating article comprising a second aerosol-forming substrate, first and second aerosol-generating articles, wherein the first aerosol-forming substrate is different from the second aerosol-forming substrate; A hybrid aerosol generating device, comprising: a main body comprising a power source, the main body being disposed at a distal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device; and an upper portion, the upper portion comprising a cavity, the cavity comprising a proximal substrate receiving portion configured to receive the first aerosol-generating article, the cavity comprising a distal substrate receiving portion configured to receive the second aerosol-generating article, the cavity further comprising an airflow channel extending along a longitudinal axis of the cavity, the upper portion being disposed at a proximal end of the hybrid aerosol generating device; an aerosol generation system comprising: a hybrid aerosol generation device, the hybrid aerosol generation device further comprising an induction coil, the induction coil extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the hybrid aerosol generation device, at least partially over the proximal substrate receiving portion and at least partially over the distal substrate receiving portion.

2. the proximal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate and the distal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive a cartridge comprising a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; or 2. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the proximal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and the distal substrate receiving portion is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article containing a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

3. 3. The aerosol generation system of claim 2, wherein the receptacle is configured to receive a cartridge and is configured to receive the cartridge laterally.

4. 4. The aerosol generation system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the upper housing portion is configured to be axially movable relative to the distal substrate receiving portion to enable opening and closing of the distal substrate receiving portion.

5. 5. The aerosol generation system of claim 4, wherein the upper portion comprises a locking element configured to prevent the housing portion from disengaging from the distal substrate receiving portion during axial movement of the housing portion relative to the distal substrate receiving portion.

6. An aerosol generation system as described in any of claims 4 and 5, wherein one or both of the housing portion and the distal substrate receiving portion are provided with a biasing element, the biasing element being configured to bias the housing portion away from the distal substrate receiving portion.

7. 7. The aerosol generation system of claim 6, wherein one or both of the housing portion and the distal substrate receiving portion comprises a release element, the release element configured to release the biasing element upon user operation.

8. 4. The aerosol generation system of claim 3, wherein the distal substrate receiving portion comprises a door configured to allow lateral insertion of the cartridge.

9. 9. An aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the induction coil extends completely over one or both of the distal and proximal substrate receiving portions.

10. 10. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the induction coil extends completely over the cavity in the upper portion.

11. An aerosol generation system as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein one or both of the main body and the distal substrate receiving portion include an air intake port that allows ambient air to be drawn into the airflow channel of the hybrid aerosol generation device, and preferably the airflow channel includes a first portion that fluidly connects the air intake port with the distal substrate receiving portion.

12. 12. The aerosol generation system of claim 11, wherein the first portion includes an upstream portion and a downstream portion, the downstream portion extending along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

13. 12. The aerosol generation system of claim 11, wherein the air intake is located at the proximal end of the upper portion and fluidly connects the air intake to the distal substrate receiving portion by a 180 degree rotation within the airflow channel.

14. 12. The aerosol generation system of claim 11, wherein the distal substrate receiving portion includes a second portion of the airflow channel that fluidly connects the distal substrate receiving portion to the proximal substrate receiving portion, preferably the second portion of the airflow channel fluidly connects the distal substrate receiving portion to the proximal substrate receiving portion via a separation element, and more preferably the second portion of the airflow channel extends along the longitudinal axis of the cavity.

15. An aerosol generation system as described in any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the upper part includes a third portion of the airflow channel that fluidly connects the proximal substrate receiving portion with the proximal opening of the cavity in the upper part, and preferably the third portion of the airflow channel extends along the longitudinal axis of the cavity.

16. 16. An aerosol generation system according to any preceding claim, wherein the airflow channel extends along a central longitudinal axis through one or both of the first and second aerosol-generating articles.

17. below: the first aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate and a heating element, the heating element comprising a susceptor material; 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the second aerosol-generating article comprises one or both of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate and a heating element, the heating element comprising a susceptor material.

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