Aerosol supply device

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol supply device that can reduce or avoid the phenomenon known as "high-temperature puffing." [Solution] The device defines a longitudinal axis and includes a first coil 124 and a second coil 126. The first coil heats a first section of a heater component, which heats an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The second coil heats a second section of a heater component. The first coil has a first length along the longitudinal axis, and the second coil has a second length along the longitudinal axis, with the first length being shorter than the second length. The first coil is adjacent to the second coil in the direction along the longitudinal axis. During use, the aerosol is drawn towards the proximal end of the device along the device's flow path, and the first coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second coil.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are heating devices that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, either with or without nicotine.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device defining a longitudinal axis is provided, the device comprising a first coil and a second coil, the first coil being configured to heat a first section of a heater component, the heater component being configured to heat an aerosol-forming material to generate an aerosol, the second coil being configured to heat a second section of the heater component, the first coil having a first length along the longitudinal axis, the second coil having a second length along the longitudinal axis, the first length being shorter than the second length, the first coil being adjacent to the second coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis, in use, an aerosol being drawn towards a proximal end of the device along a flow path of the device, the first coil being disposed closer to the proximal end of the device than the second coil.

[0004] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device defining a longitudinal axis is provided, the device comprising a first induction coil and a second induction coil, The first induction coil is configured to generate a first changing magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor configuration, and the susceptor configuration is configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The second induction coil is configured to generate a second changing magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor configuration. The first induction coil has a first length along its longitudinal axis, and the second induction coil has a second length along its longitudinal axis, with the first length being shorter than the second length. The first induction coil is adjacent to the second induction coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis, During use, the aerosol is drawn along the device's flow path toward the proximal end of the device, and the first induction coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second induction coil.

[0005] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply device is provided which defines a longitudinal axis, Including a first coil and a second coil, The first coil is configured to heat a first section of the heater component, and the heater component is configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The second coil is configured to heat a second section of the heater component. The first coil has a first length along its longitudinal axis, and the second coil has a second length along its longitudinal axis. The first coil is adjacent to the second coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis, The ratio of the second length to the first length is greater than approximately 1.1.

[0006] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply device is provided which defines a longitudinal axis, It includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, The first induction coil is configured to generate a first changing magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor configuration, and the susceptor configuration is configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The second induction coil is configured to generate a second changing magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor configuration. The first induction coil has a first length along its longitudinal axis, and the second induction coil has a second length along its longitudinal axis. The first induction coil is adjacent to the second induction coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis, The ratio of the second length to the first length is greater than approximately 1.1.

[0007] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply device is provided which defines a longitudinal axis, A heating structure including a first heater component and a second heater component, The first heater component is configured to generate an aerosol by heating a first section of the aerosol-generating material received by the aerosol supply device. The second heater component is configured to generate an aerosol by heating a second section of the aerosol-generating material. The first heater component has a first length along its longitudinal axis, and the second heater component has a second length along its longitudinal axis. The first heater component is adjacent to the second heater component in a direction along the longitudinal axis, The ratio of the second length to the first length is between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.5.

[0008] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply device is provided, which is It includes a first induction coil configured to generate a changing magnetic field for heating the susceptor, the susceptor having a defined longitudinal axis and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol, The first induction coil is helical and has a first length along its longitudinal axis. The first induction coil has a first number of turns around the susceptor, The ratio of the first turn to the first length is approximately 0.2 mm. -1 ~about 0.5mm -1 It is between these two points.

[0009] According to a seventh aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply device is provided, which is It includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, The first induction coil is configured to generate a first changing magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor configuration, and the susceptor configuration is configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The second induction coil is configured to generate a second changing magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor configuration. The first induction coil has a first number of turns around an axis defined by the susceptor, The second induction coil has a second number of turns around the axis, The ratio of the second volume number to the first volume number is between approximately 1.1 and 1.8.

[0010] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given only as examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a front view of an example of an aerosol supply device. [Figure 2] This is a front view of the aerosol supply device shown in Figure 1, with the outer cover removed. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 5]Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of the heating assembly within the aerosol supply device, and Figure 5B is a magnified view of a portion of the heating assembly in Figure 5A. [Figure 6] This figure shows a first example of first and second induction coils wound around an insulating member. [Figure 7] This figure shows a first example of the first induction coil. [Figure 8] This figure shows a first example of the second induction coil. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sections of the first and second induction coils, susceptor, and insulating member. [Figure 10] This figure shows a second example of first and second induction coils wound around an insulating material. [Figure 11] This figure shows a second example of the first induction coil. [Figure 12] This figure shows a second example of the second induction coil. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram of a cross-section of a Litz wire. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram of the top view of an induction coil. [Figure 15] This is another schematic diagram of the cross-sections of the first and second induction coils, susceptor, and insulating member. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” includes materials that, upon heating, release volatile components, typically in the form of an aerosol. Aerosol-generating materials may include any tobacco-containing material, such as one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, re-combined tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating materials may also include other non-tobacco products, some of which may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, or wax. Aerosol-generating materials may also be, for example, a combination or blend of materials. Aerosol-generating materials may also be known as “smoking materials.”

[0013] Devices are known that heat an aerosol-generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating material, thereby forming an aerosol that can be inhaled, typically without burning or combustion of the aerosol-generating material. Such devices may also be described as “aerosol-generating devices,” “aerosol-supplying devices,” “non-combustion heating devices,” “tobacco heating product devices,” or “tobacco heating devices.” Similarly, there are so-called e-cigarette devices, which typically vaporize an aerosol-generating material in liquid form, which may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may be provided in the form of a rod, cartridge, or cassette that can be inserted into the device, or as part thereof. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol-generating material may be provided as a “permanent” part of the device.

[0014] An aerosol supply device can accept articles containing aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, “article” refers to components that contain, or are in use, the aerosol-generating material and, optionally, other components in use, which are heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material. A user can insert the article into the aerosol supply device before it is heated to generate an aerosol, which is then inhaled by the user. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example, configured to be placed in the heating chamber of a device of a size that accepts the article.

[0015] A first aspect of this disclosure defines a first coil and a second coil. The first coil has a first length, and the second coil has a second length, with the first length being shorter than the second length. The first coil is positioned near the proximal end of the device. The proximal end of the device is the end closest to the user's mouth when the user inhales the device to inhale an aerosol. Thus, the proximal end is the end to which the aerosol travels when the user inhales.

[0016] Both the first and second coils are positioned to heat a heater component, such as a susceptor (possibly at different times). As will be discussed in more detail herein, a susceptor is a conductive object that can be heated by a changing magnetic field. The first coil may be a first induction coil configured to generate a first magnetic field. The second coil may be a second induction coil configured to generate a second magnetic field. The first coil can heat a first section of the heater component, and the second coil can heat a second section of the heater component. An article containing an aerosol-generating material can be received within the heater component, placed near the heater component, or brought into contact with the heater component. When heated, the heater component transfers heat to the aerosol-generating material and releases an aerosol. In one example, the heater component defines a housing, and the heater component receives the aerosol-generating material.

[0017] As described above, the first coil may be a first induction coil, the second coil may be a second induction coil, and the heater component may be a susceptor (also known as a susceptor configuration). The first induction coil is configured to generate a first changing magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor configuration. The second induction coil is configured to generate a second changing magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor configuration.

[0018] The end of the susceptor closest to the proximal end of the device is surrounded by a first, shorter coil. When the aerosol-generating material is received into the device, the aerosol-generating material positioned toward the proximal end of the device is heated as a result of the first, shorter coil.

[0019] It has been found that placing a short coil near the proximal end of the device can reduce or avoid a phenomenon known as "hot puffs." A "hot puff" is a point on the device where the user's first puff is too hot (i.e., the aerosol the user inhales is too hot). This can potentially cause discomfort or harm to the user. Hot puffs are generated because the ratio of hot aerosol to cooler air is higher than necessary.

[0020] By placing a shorter coil closer to the distal end of the aerosol-generating material (which is heated first), a smaller amount of aerosol-generating material is heated. This reduces the amount of aerosol produced compared to when a larger amount of material is heated. This aerosol mixes with some ambient / cooler air within the device, lowering the aerosol temperature and thus avoiding / reducing hot puffs. A longer coil heats a larger amount of aerosol-generating material, producing more aerosol, which mixes with the same or similar amounts of ambient / cooler air. However, compared to the aerosol produced by the first coil, this aerosol mixture passes further through the device and further through the remaining aerosol-generating material before being inhaled. The aerosol needs to move further and is therefore cooled further to an acceptable level. Hot puffs can be caused by water or water vapor in the aerosol. A shorter coil may result in a smaller amount of water or water vapor being released. For example, in an aerosol generating material with a water content of 15%, a length of approximately 42 mm, and a mass of approximately 260 mg, the mass of water released by a first coil with a length of approximately 14 mm is approximately 13 mg.

[0021] In the device, a first portion of the aerosol-generating material is heated by a first section of the susceptor, and the first portion is smaller than a second portion of the aerosol-generating material heated by a second section of the susceptor.

[0022] The first and second lengths are measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device. In another example, the first and second lengths are measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, for example, the insertion axis into the device, or the longitudinal axis of the susceptor. Generally, the longitudinal axis of the device and the longitudinal axis of the susceptor are parallel. In other words, the susceptor configuration is arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0023] The lengths of the first and second portions may be selected such that the aerosol generated by the first portion of the aerosol-generating material leaves the device at a first temperature and the aerosol generated by the second portion of the aerosol-generating material leaves the device at a second temperature, where the first and second temperatures are substantially the same.

[0024] In certain configurations, the first coil and the second coil operate independently of each other. Therefore, while the first coil is operating, the second coil may be inactive. In some examples, the first and second coils operate simultaneously for a specific duration. In some examples, the device includes a controller that can operate the device in two or more heating modes. For example, in the first mode, the first and second coils may operate for a specific duration and / or heat the aerosol-generating material to a specific temperature. In the second mode, the first and second coils may operate for different durations and / or heat the aerosol-generating material to different temperatures.

[0025] In certain examples, an aerosol supply device includes a susceptor configuration. In other examples, an article containing aerosol-generating material includes a susceptor configuration.

[0026] The device may further include a mouthpiece / opening located at the proximal end of the device, with the first coil positioned closer to the mouthpiece than the second coil. The mouthpiece may be detachably attached to the opening of the device, or the opening of the device itself may define the mouthpiece. In certain examples, an article containing an aerosol-generating material is inserted into the device and extends from the opening of the device while it is heated. Thus, the aerosol flows out of the opening but is thus contained within the article. Even in such cases, the opening can still be said to be a mouthpiece, regardless of whether it comes into contact with the user's mouth during use.

[0027] In certain configurations, the outer circumference of the first coil is positioned substantially the same distance from the susceptor as the outer circumference of the second coil. In other words, the coils do not overlap. Such configurations can simplify the device assembly process. For example, two coils can be wound around an insulating material. The reference to the “outer circumference” or “outer surface” of a coil means the edge / surface that is furthest from the susceptor configuration in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and / or susceptor configuration. Similarly, the reference to the “inner circumference / surface” of a coil means the edge / surface that is closest to the susceptor configuration in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and / or susceptor configuration. Thus, the first and second coils may have substantially the same outer diameter.

[0028] In one example, the inner diameter of the first and / or second coil is approximately 10–14 mm in length, and the outer diameter is approximately 12–16 mm in length. In a specific example, the inner diameter of the first and second coils is approximately 12–13 mm in length, and the outer diameter is approximately 14–15 mm in length. Preferably, the inner diameter of the first and second coils is approximately 12 mm in length, and the outer diameter is approximately 14.6 mm in length. The inner diameter of the helical coil is any straight segment passing through the center of the coil (when viewed in cross-section) with its endpoints on the inner circumference of the coil. The outer diameter of the helical coil is any straight segment passing through the center of the coil (when viewed in cross-section) with its endpoints on the outer circumference of the coil. These dimensions allow for effective heating of the susceptor configuration while maintaining a compact external size.

[0029] In some exemplary devices, the first and second coils are substantially continuous. In other words, the first and second coils are directly adjacent to each other and in contact with each other. Such a configuration can simplify the device assembly process. In some examples, the first and second coils are directly adjacent to each other but do not in contact with each other.

[0030] In some examples, the midpoint of the length dimension of the second coil is displaced along the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor so that it lies outside the first coil.

[0031] In some examples, a first coil and a second coil adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis may mean that the first and second coils are not aligned along the axis. For example, the first and second coils may be displaced from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0032] The first coil and the second coil may be helical. For example, the first coil and the second coil may be wound in a helical shape.

[0033] The first coil may include a first wire wound (helically) at a first pitch, and the second coil may include a second wire wound (helically) at a second pitch. The pitch is the length of the coil across one complete winding (measured along the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor / coil).

[0034] The first and second coils may have different pitches. This allows the heating effect of the susceptor configuration to be adjusted for a specific purpose. For example, a shorter pitch may induce a stronger magnetic field, while a longer pitch may induce a weaker magnetic field.

[0035] In one example, the second pitch is longer than the first pitch. The second pitch helps to lower the temperature of the aerosols generated in this region. In particular, the second pitch can be about 0.5 mm less, or about 0.2 mm less, or more preferably about 0.1 mm longer than the first pitch.

[0036] In one configuration, both the first and second pitches are between approximately 2 mm and 4 mm, or between approximately 2 mm and 3 mm, or preferably between approximately 2.5 mm and 3 mm. For example, the first pitch may be approximately 2.8 mm, and the second pitch may be approximately 2.9 mm. These specific pitches have been found to provide optimal heating of the aerosol-generating material.

[0037] Alternatively, the first and second coils may have substantially the same pitch. This can make the manufacturing of the coils easier and simpler. In one example, the pitch may be between approximately 2 mm and approximately 4 mm, or between approximately 3 mm and approximately 4 mm, or between approximately 3 mm and approximately 3.5 mm, or greater than approximately 2 mm or greater than approximately 3 mm, and / or less than approximately 4 mm and / or less than approximately 3.5 mm.

[0038] The first length (of the first coil) can be between approximately 14 mm and 23 mm, for example, between approximately 14 mm and 21 mm, and the second length (of the second coil) can be between approximately 23 mm and 30 mm, for example, between approximately 25 mm and 30 mm. More specifically, the first length can be approximately 19 mm (±2 mm) and the second length can be approximately 25 mm (±2 mm). These lengths have been found to be particularly suitable for providing effective heating of the susceptor while reducing high-temperature puffing. In another example, the first length can be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm) and the second length can be approximately 27 mm (±1 mm).

[0039] The first coil may include a first wire having a length between approximately 250 mm and 300 mm, and the second coil may include a second wire having a length between approximately 400 mm and 450 mm. In other words, the length of the wire in each coil is the length when the coil is unwound. For example, the first wire may have a length between approximately 300 mm and 350 mm, for example, between approximately 310 mm and 320 mm. The second wire may have a length between approximately 350 mm and 450 mm, for example, between approximately 390 mm and 410 mm. In certain configurations, the first wire has a length of approximately 315 mm and the second wire has a length of approximately 400 mm. These lengths have been found to be particularly suitable for providing effective heating of the susceptor while reducing high-temperature puffing.

[0040] The first coil may have approximately 5 to 7 turns, and the second coil may have approximately 8 to 9 turns. In other words, the first and second wires can be wound this many times. A turn is a complete rotation around an axis. In a particular example, the first coil may have approximately 6 to 7 turns, such as approximately 6.75 turns. The second coil may have approximately 8.75 turns. This allows the ends of the coils to be connected to terminals (such as a printed circuit board) at similar locations. In another example, the first coil may have approximately 5 to 6 turns, such as approximately 5.75 turns. The second coil may have approximately 8.75 turns.

[0041] The first coil may include gaps between consecutive windings, each gap having a length between approximately 1.4 mm and approximately 1.6 mm, for example, approximately 1.5 mm. The second coil may also include gaps between consecutive windings, each gap having a length between approximately 1.4 mm and approximately 1.6 mm, for example, approximately 1.6 mm. In some examples, the heating effect of the susceptor configuration may vary from coil to coil. More generally, the gaps between consecutive windings may vary from coil to coil. The gap length is measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor / coil. A gap is a portion of the coil where there is no wire (i.e., there is a space between consecutive windings).

[0042] The first coil may have a mass between approximately 1 g and approximately 1.5 g, and the second coil may have a mass between approximately 2 g and approximately 2.5 g. For example, the mass of the first coil may be less than approximately 1.5 g, and the mass of the second coil may be greater than approximately 2 g. In a particular configuration, the first coil may have a mass between approximately 1.3 g and approximately 1.6 g, for example, 1.4 g, and the second coil may have a mass between approximately 2 g and approximately 2.2 g, for example, approximately 2.1 g.

[0043] The device may further include a controller configured to sequentially energize / activate the first coil and the second coil, with the first coil being energized / activated before the second coil. Thus, during use, the first coil is activated first, followed by the second coil.

[0044] The susceptor configuration may be hollow and / or substantially tubular in order to allow the aerosol-generating material to be received within the susceptor, so that the susceptor surrounds the aerosol-generating material.

[0045] In other examples, there may be three or four coils, with the coil closest to the device's opening being shorter than each of the other coils.

[0046] In another example, the first length (of the first coil) could be between approximately 10 mm and 21 mm, and the second length (of the second coil) could be between approximately 18 mm and 30 mm (when the first coil is shorter than the second coil). In one example, the first length could be approximately 17.9 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm). In another example, the first length could be approximately 10 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 21 mm (±1 mm). In yet another example, the first length could be approximately 14 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm).

[0047] In some examples, each coil may have the same number of turns.

[0048] In some examples, a heater component / susceptor may include at least two materials that can be heated at two different frequencies for the selective aerosolization of at least two materials. For example, a first section of the heater component may include a first material, and a second section of the heater component may include a second, different material. Thus, an aerosol supply device may include a heater component configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, the heater component comprising a first material and a second material, the first material being heatable by a first magnetic field having a first frequency, and the second material being heatable by a second magnetic field having a second frequency, the first frequency being different from the second frequency. The first and second magnetic fields may be provided, for example, by a single coil or two coils.

[0049] The device is preferably a tobacco heating device, also known as a non-combustion heating device.

[0050] As briefly mentioned above, in some examples, the coil(s) are configured to cause heating of at least one conductive heating component / element (also known as a heater component / element) during use, and as a result, thermal energy is conductable from at least one conductive heating component to the aerosol-generating material, thereby causing heating of the aerosol-generating material.

[0051] In some examples, a coil(s) is configured to cause induction heating and / or magnetic hysteresis heating of at least one heating component / element by generating a changing magnetic field for penetrating at least one heating component / element during use. In such a configuration, its heater heating component or each heater heating component may be called a “susceptor”. A coil configured to cause induction heating of at least one conductive heating component by generating a changing magnetic field for penetrating at least one conductive heating component during use may be called an “induction coil” or “induction coil”.

[0052] The device may include heating elements, e.g., conductive heating elements, which may be appropriately positioned or configurable relative to a coil to enable such heating of the heating elements. The heating elements may be in a fixed position relative to the coil. Alternatively, at least one heating element, e.g., at least one conductive heating element, may be included in an article for insertion into the heating zone of the device, the article also including an aerosol-generating material, and which is removable from the heating zone after use. Alternatively, both the device and such an article may include at least one respective heating element, e.g., at least one conductive heating element, and a coil may cause heating of the respective heating elements of the device and the article when the article is in the heating zone.

[0053] In some examples, the coil(s) are helical. In some examples, the coil(s) surround at least a portion of the heating zone of a device configured to receive aerosol-generating material. In some examples, the coil(s) are helical coil(s) surrounding at least a portion of the heating zone. The heating zone may be a containment shaped to receive aerosol-generating material.

[0054] In some examples, the device includes a conductive heating element that at least partially surrounds the heating zone, and the coil(s) are helical coil(s) that surround at least a portion of the conductive heating element. In some examples, the conductive heating element is tubular. In some examples, the coil(s) are induction coils.

[0055] A third aspect of this disclosure defines a first coil and a second coil. The first coil has a first length, and the second coil has a second length, with the ratio of the second length to the first length being greater than approximately 1.1. Thus, the first length is shorter than the second length, and the second length is at least 1.1 times the length of the first length. Thus, the device has an asymmetric heating configuration of coils. This asymmetric heating configuration is also applicable to other heating techniques such as resistance heating, and it will be understood that the first and second heater resistance heater configurations can replace the first and second coils.

[0056] The first coil may be a first induction coil, the second coil may be a second induction coil, and the heater component may be a susceptor (also known as a susceptor configuration).

[0057] By having two coils of different lengths, different amounts of aerosol-generating material are heated by each coil. Generally, a shorter coil generates less aerosol than would be produced if a larger amount of material were heated. Therefore, the longer the coil, the larger the amount of aerosol-generating material heated, and the more aerosol is generated. Thus, by having coils of different lengths and activating the corresponding coils, a desired amount of aerosol can be released.

[0058] In the above configuration, the generated aerosol is mixed with substantially the same amount of ambient / cooler air within the device, regardless of which coil is releasing the aerosol. The ambient air cools the temperature of the generated aerosol. Depending on which coil is positioned closer to the proximal end (mouth end) of the device, it affects the temperature of the aerosol inhaled by the user.

[0059] It was found that when the ratio of the second length to the first length is greater than approximately 1.1, the amount and temperature of the generated aerosol can be adjusted to suit the user's needs. Furthermore, using two heating zones provides greater flexibility in how the aerosol-generating material is heated.

[0060] Furthermore, shorter coils heat shorter portions of the susceptor (and therefore shorter portions of the aerosol-generating material) with a faster rise time. Thus, various sensory characteristics can be introduced in a more accentuating way during a session. For example, if the short coil is placed at the mouthpiece (proximal end) of the device, the user's initial puff can be achieved quickly. If the short coil is placed elsewhere, additional sensory characteristics can be introduced more quickly than background sensory characteristics. If the short coil is at the distal end, it can provide a particularly noticeable sensation at the end of a session, and as a result, it can overcome off-notes that may be generated, for example, by continuing to heat the downstream portion of the tobacco simultaneously through other coils.

[0061] This ratio may be greater than 1.2. In certain configurations, the ratio is between approximately 1.2 and approximately 3. When the radio is less than approximately 3, the amount and temperature of the generated aerosol can be more appropriately adjusted to the user's needs. The ratio is preferably between approximately 1.2 and approximately 2.2, or between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.5. The ratio is more preferably between approximately 1.3 and approximately 1.4. This ratio has been found to provide a good balance of the above considerations.

[0062] The first length (of the first coil) may be between approximately 14 mm and 23 mm, for example, between approximately 14 mm and 21 mm. More specifically, the first length may be approximately 19 mm (±2 mm). The second length (of the second coil) may be between approximately 20 mm and 30 mm, or between approximately 25 mm and 30 mm. More specifically, the second length may be approximately 25 mm (±2 mm). These lengths have been found to be particularly suitable for providing effective heating of the susceptor to ensure that the desired amount and temperature of aerosol is generated. In another example, the first length may be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm) and the second length may be approximately 27 mm (±1 mm).

[0063] Since the first length is approximately 20 mm and the second length is approximately 27 mm, the ratio is preferably between approximately 1.3 and 1.4. These dimensions were found to provide a suitable configuration.

[0064] In certain configurations, during use, the aerosol is drawn along the device's flow path toward the proximal end of the device, and the first coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second coil. As described above, it has been found that by positioning the shorter coil closer to the proximal end of the device, the phenomenon known as "hot puffing" can be reduced or avoided.

[0065] It was found that when the ratio of the second length to the first length is greater than approximately 1.1 (and less than approximately 3, e.g., less than approximately 2.2, or less than approximately 1.5, or less than approximately 1.4), the desired aerosol temperature and quantity can be generated in both coils without causing harm or discomfort to the user.

[0066] The device may further include a mouthpiece / opening located at the proximal end of the device, with the first coil positioned closer to the mouthpiece than the second coil. The mouthpiece may be detachably attached to the opening of the device, or the opening of the device itself may define the mouthpiece. In certain examples, an article containing an aerosol-generating material is inserted into the device and extends from the opening of the device while it is heated. Thus, the aerosol flows out of the opening but is thus contained within the article. Even in such cases, the opening can still be said to be a mouthpiece, regardless of whether it comes into contact with the user's mouth during use.

[0067] In certain examples, an aerosol supply device includes a susceptor configuration. In other examples, an article containing aerosol-generating material includes a susceptor configuration.

[0068] In certain configurations, the outer circumference of the first coil is positioned substantially the same distance from the susceptor as the outer circumference of the second coil. In other words, the coils do not overlap. Such configurations can simplify the device assembly process. For example, two coils can be wound around an insulating material. The reference to the “outer circumference” or “outer surface” of a coil means the edge / surface that is furthest from the susceptor configuration in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and / or susceptor configuration. Similarly, the reference to the “inner circumference / surface” of a coil means the edge / surface that is closest to the susceptor configuration in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and / or susceptor configuration. Thus, the first and second coils may have substantially the same outer diameter.

[0069] In one example, the inner diameters of the first and second coils are approximately 10-14 mm in length, and the outer diameters are approximately 12-16 mm in length. In a specific example, the inner diameters of the first and second coils are approximately 12-13 mm in length, and the outer diameters are approximately 14-15 mm in length. Preferably, the inner diameters of the first and second coils are approximately 12 mm in length, and the outer diameters are approximately 14.6 mm in length. The inner diameter of the helical coil is any straight segment passing through the center of the coil (when viewed in cross-section) with its endpoints on the inner circumference of the coil. The outer diameter of the helical coil is any straight segment passing through the center of the coil (when viewed in cross-section) with its endpoints on the outer circumference of the coil. These dimensions can provide effective heating of the susceptor configuration.

[0070] In some exemplary devices, the first and second coils are substantially continuous. In other words, the first and second coils are directly adjacent to each other and in contact with each other. Such a configuration can simplify the device assembly process. In some examples, the first and second coils are directly adjacent to each other but do not in contact with each other.

[0071] In some examples, the midpoint of the length dimension of the second coil is displaced along the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor so that it lies outside the first coil.

[0072] In some examples, a first coil and a second coil adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis may mean that the first and second coils are not aligned along the axis. For example, the first and second coils may be displaced from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0073] The first coil and the second coil may be helical. For example, the first coil and the second coil may be wound in a helical shape.

[0074] The first coil may include a first wire wound (helically) at a first pitch, and the second coil may include a second wire wound (helically) at a second pitch. The pitch is the length of the coil across one complete winding (measured along the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor / coil).

[0075] The first and second coils may have different pitches. This allows the heating effect of the susceptor configuration to be adjusted for a specific purpose. For example, a shorter pitch may induce a stronger magnetic field, while a longer pitch may induce a weaker magnetic field.

[0076] In one example, the second pitch is longer than the first pitch. The second pitch helps to lower the temperature of the aerosols generated in this region. In particular, the second pitch can be about 0.5 mm less, or about 0.2 mm less, or more preferably about 0.1 mm longer than the first pitch.

[0077] In one configuration, both the first and second pitches are between approximately 2 mm and 4 mm, or between approximately 2 mm and 3 mm, or preferably between approximately 2.5 mm and 3 mm. For example, the first pitch may be approximately 2.8 mm and the second pitch may be approximately 2.9 mm. These specific pitches have been found to provide optimal heating of the aerosol-generating material.

[0078] Alternatively, the first and second coils may have substantially the same pitch. This can make the manufacturing of the coils easier and simpler. In one example, the pitch may be between approximately 2 mm and approximately 3 mm, or between approximately 2.5 mm and approximately 3 mm, or between approximately 2.8 mm and approximately 3 mm, or greater than approximately 2.5 mm or greater than approximately 2.8 mm and / or less than approximately 3 mm.

[0079] The first coil may include a first wire having a length between approximately 250 mm and 300 mm, and the second coil may include a second wire having a length between approximately 400 mm and 450 mm. In other words, the length of the wire in each coil is the length when the coil is unwound. For example, the first wire may have a length between approximately 300 mm and 350 mm, for example, between approximately 310 mm and 320 mm. The second wire may have a length between approximately 350 mm and 450 mm, for example, between approximately 390 mm and 410 mm. In certain configurations, the first wire has a length of approximately 315 mm and the second wire has a length of approximately 400 mm. These lengths have been found to be particularly suitable for providing effective heating of the susceptor while reducing high-temperature puffing.

[0080] The first coil may have approximately 5 to 7 turns, and the second coil may have approximately 8 to 9 turns. In other words, the first and second wires can be wound this many times. A turn is a complete rotation around an axis. In a particular example, the first coil may have approximately 6 to 7 turns, such as approximately 6.75 turns. The second coil may have approximately 8.75 turns. This allows the ends of the coils to be connected to terminals (such as a printed circuit board) at similar locations. In another example, the first coil may have approximately 5 to 6 turns, such as approximately 5.75 turns. The second coil may have approximately 8.75 turns.

[0081] The first coil may include gaps between consecutive windings, each gap having a length between approximately 1.4 mm and approximately 1.6 mm, for example, approximately 1.5 mm. The second coil may also include gaps between consecutive windings, each gap having a length between approximately 1.4 mm and approximately 1.6 mm, for example, approximately 1.6 mm. In some examples, the heating effect of the susceptor configuration may differ from coil to coil. More generally, the gaps between consecutive windings may differ from coil to coil. The gap length is measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor. A gap is a portion of the coil where there is no wire (i.e., there is a space between consecutive windings).

[0082] The first coil may have a mass between approximately 1 g and approximately 1.5 g, and the second coil may have a mass between approximately 2 g and approximately 2.5 g. For example, the mass of the first coil may be less than approximately 1.5 g, and the mass of the second coil may be greater than approximately 2 g. In a particular configuration, the first coil may have a mass between approximately 1.3 g and approximately 1.6 g, for example, 1.4 g, and the second coil may have a mass between approximately 2 g and approximately 2.2 g, for example, approximately 2.1 g.

[0083] The device may further include a controller configured to sequentially energize / activate the first coil and the second coil, with the first coil being energized / activated before the second coil. Thus, during use, the first coil is activated first, followed by the second coil.

[0084] The susceptor configuration may be hollow and / or substantially tubular in order to allow the aerosol-generating material to be received within the susceptor, so that the susceptor surrounds the aerosol-generating material.

[0085] In other examples, there may be three or four coils. In certain configurations, the coil closest to the device's opening is shorter than each of the other coils.

[0086] In another example, the first length (of the first coil) could be between approximately 10 mm and 21 mm, and the second length (of the second coil) could be between approximately 18 mm and 30 mm (when the first coil is shorter than the second coil). In one example, the first length could be approximately 17.9 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm). In another example, the first length could be approximately 10 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 21 mm (±1 mm). In yet another example, the first length could be approximately 14 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm).

[0087] In some examples, a heater component / susceptor may include at least two materials that can be heated at two different frequencies for the selective aerosolization of at least two materials. For example, a first section of the heater component may include a first material, and a second section of the heater component may include a second, different material. Thus, an aerosol supply device may include a heater component configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, the heater component comprising a first material and a second material, the first material being heatable by a first magnetic field having a first frequency, and the second material being heatable by a second magnetic field having a second frequency, the first frequency being different from the second frequency. The first and second magnetic fields may be provided, for example, by a single coil or two coils.

[0088] In some examples, each coil may have the same number of turns.

[0089] In some examples, there may be three or four coils. In certain configurations, the coil closest to the device's opening is shorter than each of the other coils.

[0090] Devices, coils, or heater components described in relation to the third, fourth, or fifth aspect may include any or all of the dimensions or features described in relation to any of the other aspects described.

[0091] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure defines a first induction coil configured to generate a changing magnetic field for penetrating and heating a susceptor. The susceptor may define a longitudinal axis, and the first induction coil has a first length along the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, the first induction coil may define a longitudinal axis. The first induction coil is helical and therefore wound helically around the susceptor, thus having a first number of turns around the longitudinal axis. A turn means a complete one-turn around the susceptor / axis.

[0092] The ratio of the number of turns to the length of the induction coil is approximately 0.2 mm. -1~about 0.5 mm -1 When it is between them, it has been found that the induction coil generates a magnetic field that is particularly effective in heating the susceptor disposed within the induction coil. In a specific configuration, such a magnetic field can heat the susceptor to about 250 ° C, for example, within less than about 2 seconds. The ratio of the number of turns to the length of the induction coil may be called, for example, "winding density". When the winding density is about 0.2 mm -1 ~about 0.5 mm -1 The induction coil of can ensure effective and rapid heating (high winding density), and a good balance can be achieved between the device being relatively lightweight and inexpensive to manufacture (low winding density). Furthermore, when the winding density increases, the resistance loss of the wire forming the induction coil may be large, and the air gap interval between successive turns of the induction coil may become narrow. Both of these effects can potentially heat the outer surface of the device to a high temperature, which may be uncomfortable for the user of the device.

[0093] In some examples, the ratio of the first number of turns to the first length is about 0.2 mm -1 ~about 0.4 mm -1 between, or about 0.3 mm -1 ~about 0.4 mm -1 between. The ratio of the first number of turns to the first length is about 0.3 mm -1 ~about 0.35 mm -1 between, for example, about 0.32 mm -1 ~about 0.34 mm -1 between is preferred.

[0094] In a specific example, the first induction coil may have a first length that is between about 15 mm and about 21 mm. In a specific example, the first induction coil may have a first number of turns that is between about 6 and about 7. These lengths and number of turns can provide a winding density within the above ranges.

[0095] The first length is preferably between approximately 18 mm and 21 mm, and the first number of turns is preferably between approximately 6.5 and 7. In a specific example, the first length is approximately 20 mm (±1 mm), and the first number of turns is between approximately 6.5 and 7, for example, approximately 6.75. Such induction coils are particularly suitable for heating the susceptor of an aerosol supply device.

[0096] The aerosol supply device may include a single induction coil (i.e., a first induction coil) or may include two or more induction coils.

[0097] In a particular example, the device further includes a second induction coil having a second length along the longitudinal axis and a second number of turns around the susceptor, with the ratio of the second number of turns to the second length being approximately 0.2 mm. -1 ~about 0.5mm -1 It is between. In some examples, the ratio of the second turn number to the second length is approximately 0.2 mm. -1 ~about 0.4mm -1 Between, or approximately 0.3 mm -1 ~about 0.4mm -1 It is between these two values. The ratio of the second turn number to the second length is approximately 0.3 mm. -1 ~about 0.35mm -1 For example, approximately 0.32 mm -1 ~about 0.34mm -1 It is preferable that it be between [the specified range].

[0098] Therefore, the first and second induction coils may have substantially the same or similar winding densities. In one example, the absolute difference between the ratio of the second number of turns to the second length and the ratio of the first number of turns to the first length is approximately 0.05 mm. -1 Less than, or approximately 0.01 mm -1 Less than or approximately 0.005 mm -1It is less than. In another example, the percentage difference between the ratio of the second turn to the second length and the ratio of the first turn to the first length may be less than about 15%, or less than about 10%, or less than about 5%, or less than about 3%, or less than about 1%. Therefore, if the first and second induction coils have substantially the same winding density, the susceptor can be heated more uniformly along its length. This eliminates the possibility of the aerosol-generating material being heated unevenly, which could affect the amount, taste, and temperature of the aerosol produced.

[0099] The first length of the first induction coil may differ from the second length of the second induction coil. Similarly, the number of turns of the first coil may differ from the number of turns of the second coil. Thus, the first and second induction coils may have different lengths and different numbers of turns, but they may still have the same winding density.

[0100] In certain cases, the first length may be at least 5 mm greater than the second length.

[0101] In certain examples, the second induction coil may have a second length between approximately 25 mm and approximately 30 mm. In certain examples, the second induction coil may have a second number of turns between approximately 8 and approximately 9. These lengths and number of turns can provide a winding density within the above range.

[0102] The second length is preferably between approximately 25 mm and 28 mm, and the second number of turns is preferably between approximately 8.5 and 9. In a specific example, the second length is approximately 26 mm (±1 mm), and the second number of turns is between approximately 8.5 and 9, for example, approximately 8.75. Such induction coils are very suitable for heating the susceptor of an aerosol supply device.

[0103] In an alternative example, the first induction coil may have a first length between approximately 15 mm and approximately 21 mm. In a specific example, the first induction coil may have a first number of turns between approximately 5 and approximately 6. Preferably, the first length is between approximately 17.5 mm and approximately 18.5 mm, and the first number of turns is between approximately 5.5 and approximately 6. In a specific example, the first length is approximately 17.9 mm (±1 mm), and the first number of turns is between approximately 5.5 and approximately 6, for example, approximately 5.75. The ratio of the first number of turns to the first length is approximately 0.3 mm. -1 ~about 0.4mm -1 It is between these two. This ratio is approximately 0.34 mm. -1 It is more preferable that the device further includes a second induction coil having a second length along the longitudinal axis and a second number of turns around the susceptor. The second induction coil may have a second length which is between about 19 mm and about 24 mm. In certain examples, the second induction coil may have a second number of turns which is between about 6 and about 7. Preferably, the second length is between about 19.5 mm and about 20.5 mm and the second number of turns is between about 6.5 and about 7. In certain examples, the second length is about 20 mm (±1 mm) and the second number of turns is between about 6.5 and about 7, for example, about 6.75. The ratio of the second number of turns to the second length is about 0.3 mm. -1 ~about 0.4mm -1 It is between these two. This ratio is approximately 0.38 mm. -1 It is more preferable that this is the case. Therefore, the ratio of the first induction coil to the second induction coil is approximately 0.04 mm. -1 different.

[0104] In certain configurations, during use, the aerosol is drawn along the device's flow path toward the proximal end of the device, and the first induction coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second induction coil.

[0105] In some examples, either or both of the first and second induction coils are formed from a Litz wire containing multiple strands. The Litz wire may have, for example, a circular or rectangular cross-section. A circular cross-section is preferred for the Litz wire.

[0106] Litz wire is a wire containing multiple strands of wire used to carry alternating current. Litz wire is used to reduce the skin effect loss of the conductor and contains multiple individually insulated wires that are twisted or woven together. The result of this winding is that each strand has an equal ratio of the total length outside the conductor. This has the effect of evenly distributing the current among the strands and reducing the resistance of the wire. In some examples, Litz wire contains several bundles of strands, and the strands in each bundle are twisted together. Bundles of wire are twisted / woven together in a similar manner.

[0107] In some examples, the Litz wire of the induction coil has approximately 50 to 150 strands. Induction coils formed with Litz wire of the above winding density and with this many strands have been found to be particularly suitable for heating susceptors used in aerosol supply devices. For example, the strength of the magnetic field induced by the induction coil is very suitable for heating a susceptor placed near the induction coil.

[0108] In another example, the Litz wire of the induction coil has about 100 to about 130 strands, or about 110 to about 120 strands. Preferably, the Litz wire of the induction coil has about 115 strands.

[0109] A Litz wire can contain bundles of at least four strands. Preferably, a Litz wire contains five bundles. As briefly mentioned above, each bundle contains multiple strands, and the strands in each bundle are twisted together. Bundles of wires can be twisted / woven together in a similar manner. The total number of strands in all bundles equals the total number of strands in the Litz wire. Each bundle can have the same number of strands. When strands are bundled in a Litz wire, each wire is more likely to spend a more equal amount of time outside the bundle.

[0110] Each strand within a Litz wire has a diameter. For example, a strand can have a diameter between approximately 0.05 mm and 0.2 mm. In some examples, the diameter is between 34 AWG (0.16 mm) and 40 AWG (0.0799 mm), where AWG is the US wire gauge. In another example, the strand diameter is between 36 AWG (0.127 mm) and 39 AWG (0.0897 mm). In yet another example, the strand diameter is between 37 AWG (0.113 mm) and 38 AWG (0.101 mm).

[0111] The stranded wires preferably have a diameter of 38AWG (0.101 mm), such as approximately 0.1 mm. It has been found that a good balance is struck between effective heating and ensuring that the aerosol supply device is compact and lightweight, using the specified number of stranded wires and Litz wires having these dimensions.

[0112] The length of the Litz wire can be between approximately 300 mm and 450 mm. For example, the first Litz wire of the first induction coil may have a length between approximately 300 mm and 350 mm, for example, between approximately 310 mm and 320 mm. The second Litz wire forming the second induction coil may have a length between approximately 350 mm and 450 mm, for example, between approximately 390 mm and 410 mm. The length of the Litz wire is the length when the induction coil is unwound. In a particular configuration, the first Litz wire has a length of approximately 315 mm, and the second Litz wire has a length of approximately 400 mm. These lengths have been found to be suitable for providing effective heating of the susceptor.

[0113] An induction coil may contain Litz wire wound (helically) at a specific pitch. The pitch is the length of the induction coil across one complete winding (measured along the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor). A shorter pitch can induce a stronger magnetic field; conversely, a longer pitch can induce a weaker magnetic field.

[0114] In one configuration, the first pitch of the first induction coil is between approximately 2 mm and 3 mm, and the second pitch of the second induction coil is between approximately 2 mm and 3 mm. For example, the first or second pitch may be between approximately 2.5 mm and 3 mm. In some examples, the difference between the first and second pitches is less than approximately 0.1 mm. For example, the first pitch may be approximately 2.8 mm and the second pitch may be approximately 2.9 mm. For example, the first pitch may be approximately 2.81 mm and the second pitch may be approximately 2.88 mm.

[0115] An induction coil may include gaps between consecutive windings, each gap may have a length between approximately 1.4 mm and 1.6 mm, such as between approximately 1.5 mm and approximately 1.6 mm. A gap of approximately 1.5 mm or 1.6 mm is preferred. In some examples, the gaps between consecutive windings differ slightly from one induction coil to the other. For example, the gap between consecutive windings of a first induction coil may differ from that of a second induction coil by less than approximately 0.1 mm. For example, the gap between consecutive windings of a first induction coil may be approximately 1.51 mm, and the gap between consecutive windings of a second induction coil may be approximately 1.58 mm.

[0116] The first and second induction coils may have masses between approximately 1 g and 2.5 g. In a particular configuration, the first induction coil may have a mass between approximately 1.3 g and 1.6 g, such as 1.4 g, and the second induction coil may have a mass between approximately 2 g and 2.2 g, such as 2.1 g.

[0117] As mentioned above, Litz wire can have a circular cross-section. Litz wire can have a diameter between approximately 1 mm and approximately 1.5 mm, or between approximately 1.2 mm and approximately 1.4 mm. It is preferable that the Litz wire has a diameter of approximately 1.3 mm.

[0118] In some examples, during use, the induction coil is configured to heat the susceptor to a temperature between approximately 240°C and 300°C, for example, between approximately 250°C and 280°C.

[0119] The first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of approximately 3 mm to 4 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. Thus, the inner surface of the induction coil and the outer surface of the susceptor may be separated by a distance of approximately 3 mm to 4 mm. The distance may be radial. It has been found that distances within this range represent a good balance between the susceptor, which is radially close to the induction coil to enable efficient heating, and radially farther away for improved insulation of the induction coil, and the insulating material.

[0120] In another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance greater than approximately 2.5 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor.

[0121] In another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of about 3 mm to about 3.5 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. In yet another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of about 3 mm to about 3.25 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor, for example, preferably about 3.25 mm. In yet another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance greater than about 3.2 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. In yet another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of less than about 3.5 mm or less than about 3.3 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. These distances have been found to strike a balance between the susceptor, which is radially close to the induction coils to enable efficient heating and radially farther away for improved insulation of the induction coils, and the insulating material.

[0122] In one example, the inner diameter of the first and / or second induction coil is approximately 10-14 mm, and the outer diameter is approximately 12-16 mm. In a specific example, the inner diameter of the first and / or second induction coil is approximately 12-13 mm, and the outer diameter is approximately 14-15 mm. Preferably, the inner diameter of the first and / or second induction coil is approximately 12 mm, and the outer diameter is approximately 14.6 mm. The inner diameter of the helical induction coil is any straight segment that passes through the center of the induction coil (when viewed in cross-section) and whose endpoints are on the inner circumference of the coil. The outer diameter of the helical induction coil is any straight segment that passes through the center of the induction coil (when viewed in cross-section) and whose endpoints are on the outer circumference of the coil. These dimensions allow for effective heating of the susceptor configuration while maintaining a compact external size.

[0123] A device, coil, or heater component described in relation to the sixth aspect may include any or all of the dimensions or features described in relation to any of the other aspects described.

[0124] A seventh aspect of this disclosure defines first and second induction coils configured to generate a changing magnetic field for penetrating and heating a susceptor. The susceptor may define an axis, such as a longitudinal axis, the first induction coil having a first number of turns around the longitudinal axis, and the second induction coil having a second number of turns around the axis. Thus, the first and second induction coils may be helical. A turn is defined as a complete one-turn rotation around the susceptor / axis.

[0125] It has been found that when the ratio of the number of turns of the second coil to the number of turns of the first coil is between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.8, the induction coil provides a heating profile that is tuned to different parts of the susceptor and aerosol-generating material. Therefore, in this embodiment, the second induction coil has more turns than the first induction coil.

[0126] In one example, the first induction coil has fewer turns because it is shorter in length than the second induction coil. The length of an induction coil is measured along the axis defined by the susceptor. If the first induction coil has fewer turns and is shorter in length than the second induction coil, the first induction coil can provide rapid initial heating of a smaller area of ​​the aerosol-generating material. However, if the number of turns of the first is much less than the number of turns of the second, the amount of aerosol-generating material heated through each induction coil will be too different. This can negatively impact the user experience; for example, the user may notice differences in the temperature, amount, and concentration of the aerosol released when the second induction coil starts operating. A good balance of these considerations is achieved when the ratio is between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.8.

[0127] Alternatively, the first induction coil may have fewer turns, resulting in a weaker magnetic field generated by the first induction coil than by the second induction coil. This can be beneficial when the type / density of the aerosol-generating material is not constant along its length. For example, there may be two types of aerosol-generating material to be heated to different temperatures. However, if the number of turns in the first coil is significantly less than that of the second, the transitions between heating regions may be too pronounced. A good balance of these considerations is found when the ratio is between approximately 1.1 and 1.8.

[0128] The first number of turns can be between approximately 5 and 7, such as between approximately 6 and 7. In a specific example, the first number of turns is approximately 6.75. The second number of turns can be between approximately 8 and 9. In a specific example, the second number of turns is approximately 8.75. The wire forming the induction coil may have, for example, a circular cross-section. It has been found that this number of turns of circular cross-section wire for each induction coil provides effective heating of the susceptor. These numbers of turns of induction coils strike a good balance between providing an effective magnetic field and providing a relatively lightweight and inexpensive induction coil.

[0129] The first number of turns can be between approximately 5 and 7, for example, between approximately 5 and 6. In a particular example, the first number of turns is approximately 5.75. The second number of turns can be between approximately 8 and 9. In a particular example, the second number of turns is approximately 8.75. The wire forming the induction coil may have, for example, a rectangular cross-section. It has been found that for each induction coil, a wire with a rectangular cross-section and this number of turns provides effective heating of the susceptor. These numbers of turns in induction coils strike a good balance between providing an effective magnetic field and providing a relatively lightweight and inexpensive induction coil.

[0130] The ratio of the second volume number to the first volume number is preferably between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.5, or between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.4, for example, between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.3. This ratio is even more preferably between approximately 1.29 and approximately 1.3.

[0131] In another example, the first volume number could be between approximately 5 and 6. In a specific example, the first volume number is approximately 5.75. The second volume number could be between approximately 6 and 7. In a specific example, the second volume number is approximately 6.75.

[0132] In some examples, the first induction coil is adjacent to the second induction coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the susceptor. Therefore, the first and second induction coils do not overlap.

[0133] In some examples, the first and second induction coils have substantially the same "winding density," i.e., substantially the same number of turns per unit length of the induction coil. The first induction coil may have a first length and a first winding density along its longitudinal axis, while the second induction coil may have a second length and a second winding density along its longitudinal axis. The winding density is calculated by dividing the number of turns by the length of the induction coil.

[0134] In one example, the absolute difference between the first winding density and the second winding density is approximately 0.1 mm. -1 Less than or approximately 0.05 mm -1 Less than, or approximately 0.01 mm -1 Less than, or approximately 0.005 mm-1 It is less than. In another example, the percentage difference between the first winding density and the second winding density may be less than about 15%, or less than about 10%, or less than about 5%, or less than about 3%, or less than about 1%. Therefore, if the first and second induction coils have similar or substantially the same winding density but different numbers of turns, the susceptor can be heated more uniformly along its entire length while controlling the amount of aerosol-generating material being heated.

[0135] The winding density of the first and second windings is approximately 0.2 mm -1 ~about 0.5mm -1 It can be between. In some examples, the first and second winding densities are approximately 0.2 mm -1 ~about 0.4mm -1 Between, or approximately 0.3 mm -1 ~about 0.4mm -1 It is between these two values. The winding densities of the first and second windings are approximately 0.32 mm -1 ~about 0.34mm -1 Between, for example, approximately 0.3 mm -1 ~about 0.35mm -1 It is preferable that it be between [the specified range].

[0136] In certain examples, the first induction coil may have a first length along the axis, and the second induction coil may have a second length along the axis, the first length being between approximately 14 mm and approximately 23 mm, for example between approximately 14 mm and approximately 21 mm, and the second length being between approximately 23 mm and approximately 30 mm, for example between approximately 25 mm and approximately 30 mm. Preferably, the first length is between approximately 18 mm and approximately 21 mm. In certain examples, the first length is approximately 20 mm (±1 mm). In certain examples, the second induction coil may have a second length being between approximately 25 mm and approximately 30 mm along the axis. Preferably, the second length is between approximately 25 mm and approximately 28 mm. In certain examples, the second length is approximately 26 mm (±1 mm). In other examples, the first length is approximately 19 mm (±2 mm) and the second length is approximately 25 mm (±2 mm).

[0137] In certain cases, the first length may be at least 5 mm longer than the second length.

[0138] In another example, the first length (of the first coil) could be between approximately 10 mm and 21 mm, and the second length (of the second coil) could be between approximately 18 mm and 30 mm. In one example, the first length could be approximately 17.9 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm). In another example, the first length could be approximately 10 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 21 mm (±1 mm). In yet another example, the first length could be approximately 14 mm (±1 mm), and the second length could be approximately 20 mm (±1 mm).

[0139] In a preferred configuration, during use, the aerosol is drawn along the device's flow path toward the proximal end of the device, and the first induction coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second induction coil. Thus, the induction coil with fewer turns can be positioned closer to the mouth end of the device. This means that the first induction coil with fewer turns can be energized / activated first, thereby enabling rapid initial heating of the aerosol-generating material positioned closest to the user's mouth. The second induction coil with more turns can be energized later during the heating session. In a preferred configuration, the first induction coil has a first length along its axis, and the second induction coil has a second length along its axis, with the first length being shorter than the second length. Thus, the first induction coil is shorter in length and has fewer turns than the second induction coil. In such a configuration, the end of the susceptor closest to the proximal end of the device is surrounded by the first, shorter induction coil. Once the aerosol-generating material is received into the device, the aerosol-generating material positioned towards the proximal end of the device is heated as a result of a first, shorter induction coil.

[0140] By having a shorter induction coil with fewer turns, positioned closer to the proximal end of the aerosol-generating material (which is heated first), a smaller amount of aerosol-generating material is heated. This reduces the amount of aerosol produced compared to when a large amount of material is heated. This aerosol mixes with a certain amount of ambient / cooler air within the device, lowering the aerosol temperature and thus avoiding / reducing hot puffs.

[0141] In some examples, the Litz wire of the induction coil has approximately 50 to 150 strands. Induction coils formed with Litz wire of the above winding density and with this many strands have been found to be particularly suitable for heating susceptors used in aerosol supply devices. For example, the strength of the magnetic field induced by the induction coil is very suitable for heating a susceptor placed near the induction coil.

[0142] In another example, the Litz wire of the induction coil has about 100 to about 130 strands, or about 110 to about 120 strands. Preferably, the Litz wire of the induction coil has about 115 strands.

[0143] A Litz wire can contain bundles of at least four strands. Preferably, a Litz wire contains five bundles. As briefly mentioned above, each bundle contains multiple strands, and the strands in each bundle are twisted together. Bundles of wires can be twisted / woven together in a similar manner. The total number of strands in all bundles equals the total number of strands in the Litz wire. Each bundle can have the same number of strands. When strands are bundled in a Litz wire, each wire is more likely to spend a more equal amount of time outside the bundle.

[0144] Each strand within a Litz wire has a diameter. For example, a strand can have a diameter between approximately 0.05 mm and 0.2 mm. In some examples, the diameter is between 34 AWG (0.16 mm) and 40 AWG (0.0799 mm), where AWG is the US wire gauge. In another example, the strand diameter is between 36 AWG (0.127 mm) and 39 AWG (0.0897 mm). In yet another example, the strand diameter is between 37 AWG (0.113 mm) and 38 AWG (0.101 mm).

[0145] The stranded wires preferably have a diameter of 38AWG (0.101 mm), such as approximately 0.1 mm. It has been found that a good balance is struck between effective heating and ensuring that the aerosol supply device is compact and lightweight, using the specified number of stranded wires and Litz wires having these dimensions.

[0146] The length of the Litz wire can be between approximately 300 mm and 450 mm. For example, the first Litz wire of the first induction coil may have a length between approximately 300 mm and 350 mm, for example, between approximately 310 mm and 320 mm. The second Litz wire forming the second induction coil may have a length between approximately 350 mm and 450 mm, for example, between approximately 390 mm and 410 mm. The length of the Litz wire is the length when the induction coil is unwound. In a particular configuration, the first Litz wire has a length of approximately 315 mm, and the second Litz wire has a length of approximately 400 mm. These lengths have been found to be suitable for providing effective heating of the susceptor.

[0147] An induction coil may contain Litz wire wound (helically) at a specific pitch. The pitch is the length of the induction coil across one complete winding (measured along the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor). A shorter pitch can induce a stronger magnetic field; conversely, a longer pitch can induce a weaker magnetic field.

[0148] In one configuration, the first pitch of the first induction coil is between approximately 2 mm and 3 mm, and the second pitch of the second induction coil is between approximately 2 mm and 3 mm. For example, the first or second pitch may be between approximately 2.5 mm and 3 mm. In some examples, the difference between the first and second pitches is less than approximately 0.1 mm. For example, the first pitch may be approximately 2.8 mm and the second pitch may be approximately 2.9 mm. For example, the first pitch may be approximately 2.81 mm and the second pitch may be approximately 2.88 mm.

[0149] An induction coil may include gaps between consecutive windings, and each gap may have a length between approximately 1.4 mm and 1.6 mm, such as between approximately 1.5 mm and 1.6 mm. A gap of approximately 1.5 mm or 1.6 mm is preferred. In some examples, the gaps between consecutive windings differ slightly from one induction coil to the other. For example, the gap between consecutive windings of a first induction coil may differ from that of a second induction coil by less than approximately 0.1 mm. For example, the gap between consecutive windings of a first induction coil may be approximately 1.51 mm, and the gap between consecutive windings of a second induction coil may be approximately 1.58 mm. The gap length is measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device / susceptor / induction coil. A gap is the portion of the coil where no wire is present (i.e., there is a gap between consecutive windings).

[0150] The first and second induction coils may have masses between approximately 1 g and 2.5 g. In a particular configuration, the first induction coil may have a mass between approximately 1.3 g and 1.6 g, such as 1.4 g, and the second induction coil may have a mass between approximately 2 g and 2.2 g, such as 2.1 g.

[0151] As mentioned above, a Litz wire can have a circular cross-section. Alternatively, a Litz wire can have a rectangular cross-section. A rectangle may have two short sides and two long sides, and the dimensions of the sides of the rectangle determine the area of ​​the rectangular cross-section. Another example is a generally square cross-section with four substantially equal sides. The cross-sectional area is approximately 1.5 mm². 2 ~about 3mm 2It can be between. In a preferred example, the cross-sectional area is approximately 2 mm². 2 ~about 3mm 2 Between, or approximately 2.2 mm 2 ~about 2.6mm 2 It is between [the specified values]. The cross-sectional area is approximately 2.4 mm². 2 ~about 2.5mm 2 It is preferable that it be between [the specified range].

[0152] In an example with a rectangular cross-section having two short sides and two long sides, the short sides may have dimensions between approximately 0.9 mm and 1.4 mm, and the long sides may have dimensions between approximately 1.9 mm and 2.4 mm. Alternatively, the short sides may have dimensions between approximately 1 mm and 1.2 mm, and the long sides may have dimensions between approximately 2.1 mm and 2.3 mm. Preferably, the short sides have dimensions of approximately 1.1 mm (±0.1 mm) and the long sides have dimensions of approximately 2.2 mm (±0.1 mm). In such an example, the cross-sectional area is approximately 2.42 mm². 2 That is the case.

[0153] The first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of approximately 3 mm to 4 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. Thus, the inner surface of the induction coil and the outer surface of the susceptor may be positioned at a distance of approximately 3 mm to 4 mm. The distance may also be radial. It has been found that distances within this range represent a good balance between the susceptor, which is radially close to the induction coil to enable efficient heating, and radially farther away for improved insulation of the induction coil, and the insulating material.

[0154] In another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance greater than approximately 2.5 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor.

[0155] In another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of about 3 mm to about 3.5 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. In yet another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of about 3 mm to about 3.25 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor, for example, preferably about 3.25 mm. In yet another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance greater than about 3.2 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. In yet another example, the first and / or second induction coils may be positioned at a distance of less than about 3.5 mm or less than about 3.3 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. These distances have been found to strike a balance between the susceptor, which is radially close to the induction coils to enable efficient heating and radially farther away for improved insulation of the induction coils, and the insulating material.

[0156] In certain examples, an aerosol supply device includes a susceptor. In other examples, an article containing aerosol-generating material includes a susceptor.

[0157] In one example, the inner diameter of the first and / or second induction coil is approximately 10-14 mm, and the outer diameter is approximately 12-16 mm. In a specific example, the inner diameter of the first and / or second induction coil is approximately 12-13 mm, and the outer diameter is approximately 14-15 mm. Preferably, the inner diameter of the first and / or second induction coil is approximately 12 mm, and the outer diameter is approximately 14.6 mm. The inner diameter of the helical induction coil is any straight segment that passes through the center of the induction coil (when viewed in cross-section) and whose endpoints are on the inner circumference of the coil. The outer diameter of the helical induction coil is any straight segment that passes through the center of the induction coil (when viewed in cross-section) and whose endpoints are on the outer circumference of the coil. These dimensions allow for effective heating of the susceptor configuration while maintaining a compact external size.

[0158] The susceptor may be hollow and / or substantially tubular in order to allow the aerosol-generating material to be received within the susceptor, so that the susceptor surrounds the aerosol-generating material.

[0159] In some examples, a susceptor includes one or more features to prevent thermal bleed between two heating zones on the susceptor. A zone is defined as an area / section of the susceptor surrounded by an induction coil. For example, if the device includes first and second induction coils, the susceptor includes first and second zones. The susceptor may include holes running through the susceptor between each zone, which can help reduce thermal bleed between adjacent zones. Alternatively, the susceptor may include notches on its outer surface. Or, the susceptor may have thinner walls at the boundaries between adjacent zones. In another example, the susceptor may "bulge" outward at the location between adjacent zones, increasing the conductive path of the susceptor. The bulging section may also have thinner walls than the walls of the adjacent zones.

[0160] For example, the edges of a susceptor can collect heat from adjacent heating zones. For instance, the edges may have a larger thermal mass than the adjacent parts. The edges function as a heat sink.

[0161] A device, coil, or heater component described in relation to the seventh aspect may include any or all of the dimensions or features described in relation to any of the other aspects described.

[0162] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol supply device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating medium / material. Broadly speaking, the device 100 can be used to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol-generating medium to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that is inhaled by the user of the device 100.

[0163] Device 100 includes a housing 102 (in the form of an outer cover) that encloses and accommodates various components of device 100. Device 100 has an opening 104 at one end through which an article 110 can be inserted for heating by a heating assembly. During use, the article 110 may be fully or partially inserted into the heating assembly, and the article 110 may be heated by one or more components of the heating assembly.

[0164] The device 100 of this embodiment includes a first end member 106 which includes a lid / cap 108 that is movable relative to the first end member 106 to close the opening 104 when the article 110 is not in place. In Figure 1, the lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, but the lid 108 can be moved to a closed configuration. For example, the user can slide the lid 108 in the direction of arrow "A".

[0165] Device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 112, such as a button or switch, which activates device 100 when pressed. For example, a user can turn on device 100 by activating switch 112.

[0166] Device 100 may also include electrical components such as a socket / port 114 that can accept a cable for charging the device 100's battery. For example, socket 114 could be a charging port, such as a USB charging port.

[0167] Figure 2 shows the device 100 of Figure 1 with the outer cover 102 removed and the article 110 absent. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.

[0168] As shown in Figure 2, the first end member 106 is positioned at one end of the device 100, and the second end member 116 is positioned at the opposite end of the device 100. Together, the first and second end members 106, 116 define at least partially the end face of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 defines at least partially the bottom surface of the device 100. The edge of the outer cover 102 may also define part of the end face. In this example, the lid 108 also defines part of the top surface of the device 100.

[0169] The end of the device closest to the opening 104 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of the device 100, as it is closest to the user's mouth during use. During use, the user inserts the article 110 into the opening 104 and operates the user control 112 to start heating the aerosol-generating material and aspirate the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along the flow path toward the proximal end of the device 100.

[0170] The other end of the device furthest from the opening 104 can be known as the distal end of device 100, as it is the end furthest from the user's mouth during use. When the user inhales the aerosol generated by the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of device 100.

[0171] Device 100 further includes a power supply 118. The power supply 118 may be a battery, such as a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Suitable battery examples include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the heating assembly and is under the control of a controller (not shown) for supplying power when needed and heating the aerosol-generating material. In this example, the battery is connected to a central support 120 that holds the battery 118 in place.

[0172] The device further includes at least one electronic module 122. The electronic module 122 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB 122 may also include one or more electrical tracks for electrically connecting various electronic components of the device 100 to one another. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100. The socket 114 may also be electrically coupled to the battery via the electrical tracks.

[0173] In exemplary device 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol-generating material of article 110 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is the process of heating a conductive object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may include an inductive element, e.g., one or more induction coils, and a device for passing a changing current, such as an alternating current, through the inductive element. When the current in the inductive element changes, it generates a changing magnetic field. The changing magnetic field passes through a susceptor appropriately positioned relative to the inductive element, generating eddy currents within the susceptor. Since the susceptor has electrical resistance to eddy currents, when eddy currents flow against this resistance, the susceptor is heated by Joule heating. If the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses within the susceptor, i.e., by the changing orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of alignment with the changing magnetic field. In induction heating, compared to, for example, conduction heating, heat is generated within the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating. Furthermore, since physical contact between the induction heater and the susceptor is not required, it offers greater flexibility in structure and application.

[0174] The induction heating assembly of the exemplary device 100 includes a susceptor configuration 132 (referred to herein as the “susceptor”), a first induction coil 124, and a second induction coil 126. The first and second induction coils 124, 126 are fabricated from a conductive material. In this example, the first and second induction coils 124, 126 are fabricated from Litz wire / cable, which is wound helically to provide helical induction coils 124, 126. Litz wire consists of multiple individual wires that are individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wire is designed to reduce the loss of skin effect in conductors. In the exemplary device 100, the first and second induction coils 124, 126 are fabricated from copper Litz wire having a rectangular cross-section. In other examples, Litz wire may have a cross-section of other shapes, such as circular.

[0175] The first induction coil 124 is configured to generate a first changing magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132, and the second induction coil 126 is configured to generate a second changing magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first induction coil 124 is adjacent to the second induction coil 126 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100 (i.e., the first and second induction coils 124, 126 do not overlap). The susceptor configuration 132 may include a single susceptor or two or more separate susceptors. The ends 130 of the first and second induction coils 124, 126 may be connected to the PCB 122.

[0176] It will be understood that in some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 may have at least one characteristic that is different from each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have at least one characteristic that is different from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different inductance value than the second inductor coil 126. In Figure 2, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 differ in length such that the first inductor coil 124 is wound on a smaller portion of the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. Thus, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different number of turns than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 may be made from a different material than the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 may be substantially identical.

[0177] In this example, the first induction coil 124 and the second induction coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. This can be useful when the induction coils are activated at different times. For example, the first induction coil 124 may act first to heat a first section / part of article 110, and then the second induction coil 126 may act to heat a second section / part of article 110. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps reduce the current induced in the inactive coil when used in combination with certain types of control circuits. In Figure 2, the first induction coil 124 is a right-handed helix and the second induction coil 126 is a left-handed helix. However, in another embodiment, the induction coils 124, 126 may be wound in the same direction, or the first induction coil 124 may be a left-handed helix and the second induction coil 126 may be a right-handed helix.

[0178] In this example, the susceptor 132 is hollow and therefore defines a containment into which the aerosol-generating material is received. For example, article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 132 is tubular and has a circular cross-section.

[0179] The susceptor 132 may be made from one or more materials. Preferably, the susceptor 132 contains carbon steel with a nickel or cobalt coating.

[0180] In some examples, the susceptor 132 may include at least two materials that can be heated at two different frequencies for the selective aerosolization of at least two materials. For example, a first section of the susceptor 132 (heated by a first induction coil 124) may include a first material, and a second section of the susceptor 132 (heated by a second induction coil 126) may include a second different material. In another example, the first section may include first and second materials, which can be heated differently based on the operation of the first induction coil 124. The first and second materials may be adjacent along an axis defined by the susceptor 132, or may form different layers within the susceptor 132. Similarly, the second section may include third and fourth materials, which can be heated differently based on the operation of the second induction coil 126. The third and fourth materials can be adjacent along the axis defined by the susceptor 132, or they can form different layers within the susceptor 132. For example, the third material may be the same as the first material, and the fourth material may be the same as the second material. Alternatively, each of the materials may be different. The susceptor may include, for example, carbon steel or aluminum.

[0181] The device 100 in Figure 2 is generally tubular and further includes an insulating member 128 that can at least partially surround the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 can be made of any insulating material, such as plastic. In this particular example, the insulating member is made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 can help insulate the various components of the device 100 from the heat generated by the susceptor 132.

[0182] The insulating member 128 can also fully or partially support the first and second induction coils 124, 126. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the first and second induction coils 124, 126 are arranged around the insulating member 128 and are in contact with the radially outward surface of the insulating member 128. In some examples, the insulating member 128 is not in contact with the first and second induction coils 124, 126. For example, there may be a small gap between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first and second induction coils 124, 126.

[0183] In a particular example, the susceptor 132, the insulating member 128, and the first and second induction coils 124 and 126 are coaxial around the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132.

[0184] Figure 3 shows a side view of device 100 in partial cross-section. In this example, an outer cover 102 is present. The rectangular cross-sectional shapes of the first and second induction coils 124 and 126 are more clearly visible.

[0185] The device 100 further includes a support 136 that engages with one end of the susceptor 132 and holds the susceptor 132 in place. The support 136 is connected to the second end member 116.

[0186] The device may also include a second printed circuit board 138 associated within the control element 112.

[0187] Device 100 further includes a second lid / cap 140 and a spring 142 positioned toward the distal end of device 100. The spring 142 allows the second lid 140 to be opened, providing access to the susceptor 132. The user can open the second lid 140 to clean the susceptor 132 and / or support 136.

[0188] The device 100 further includes an expansion chamber 144 extending from the proximal end of the susceptor 132 toward the opening 104 of the device. At least partially located within the expansion chamber 144 is a retaining clip 146 for contacting and holding the article 110 when it is received within the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 is connected to the end member 106.

[0189] Figure 4 is an exploded view of device 100 from Figure 1, with the outer cover 102 omitted.

[0190] Figure 5A shows a cross-section of a portion of the device 100 in Figure 1. Figure 5B shows a magnified view of the region in Figure 5A. Figures 5A and 5B show an article 110 received within the susceptor 132, the article 110 being sized such that its outer surface contacts the inner surface of the susceptor 132. This ensures that heating is most efficient. The article 110 in this embodiment includes an aerosol-generating material 110a, which is placed within the susceptor 132. The article 110 may also include other components such as a filter, packaging material, and / or a cooling structure.

[0191] Figure 5B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is a distance of 150 from the inner surfaces of the induction coils 124 and 126, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 150 is approximately 3mm–4mm, approximately 3mm–3.5mm, or approximately 3.25mm.

[0192] Figure 5B further shows that the outer surface of the insulating member 128 is positioned at a distance of 152 from the inner surfaces of the induction coils 124 and 126, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 152 is approximately 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0 mm, so the induction coils 124 and 126 are in contact with the insulating member 128.

[0193] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of approximately 0.025 mm to 1 mm, or approximately 0.05 mm.

[0194] For example, the susceptor 132 has a length of approximately 40mm to 60mm, approximately 40mm to 45mm, or approximately 44.5mm.

[0195] In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of approximately 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or approximately 0.5 mm.

[0196] As shown in Figure 5A, the Litz wire of the first induction coil 124 is wound approximately 5.75 times around the axis 158, and the Litz wire of the second induction coil 126 is wound approximately 8.75 times around the axis 158. The Litz wire does not form an integer number of turns because some ends of the Litz wire are bent away from the surface of the insulating member 128 before the complete winding is finished. Therefore, the ratio of the number of turns of the second induction coil 126 to the number of turns of the first induction coil 124 is approximately 1.5.

[0197] Figure 6 shows the heating assembly of device 100. As briefly mentioned above, the heating assembly includes a first induction coil 124 and a second induction coil 126 arranged adjacent to each other in a direction along axis 158 (which is also parallel to the longitudinal axis 134 of device 100). During use, the first induction coil 124 is activated first. This heats the first section of the susceptor 132 (i.e., the section of the susceptor 132 surrounded by the first induction coil 124), and then the first portion of the aerosol-generating material is heated. Later, the first induction coil 124 can be switched off, and the second induction coil 126 can be activated. This heats the second section of the susceptor 132 (i.e., the section of the susceptor 132 surrounded by the second induction coil 126), and then the second portion of the aerosol-generating material is heated. The second induction coil 126 can be switched on while the first induction coil 124 is operating, and the first induction coil 124 can be switched off while the second induction coil 126 continues to operate. Alternatively, the first induction coil 124 can be switched off before the second induction coil 126 is switched on. The controller can control when each induction coil is activated / energized. Therefore, the induction coils 124 and 126 can be operated independently of each other.

[0198] In certain examples, both induction coils 124 and 126 can operate in two or more different modes. For example, the controller can operate induction coils 124 and 126 in a first mode, which is configured to heat the susceptor to a lower temperature than when induction coils 124 and 126 are operating in a second mode.

[0199] In the example shown, since the susceptor 132 is single, the first and second sections are part of a single susceptor 132. In other examples, the first and second sections are separate. For example, there may be a gap between the first and second sections. The gap may be an air gap or a gap provided by a non-conductive material.

[0200] It was found that high-temperature puffing could be reduced or avoided by making the length 202 of the first induction coil 124 shorter than the length 204 of the second induction coil 126. The length of each induction coil was measured in a direction parallel to the axis of the susceptor 158, which is also parallel to the axis of the device 134. Since the amount of aerosol-generating material heated by the first induction coil 124 is less than the amount of aerosol-generating material heated by the second induction coil 126, high-temperature puffing can be reduced.

[0201] The first, shorter induction coil 124 is positioned closer to the mouthpiece (proximal end) of the device 100 than the second induction coil 126. When the aerosol-generating material is heated, an aerosol is released. When the user inhales, the aerosol is drawn towards the mouthpiece of the device 100 in the direction of arrow 206. The aerosol exits the device 100 through the opening / mouthpiece 104 and is inhaled by the user. The first induction coil 124 is positioned closer to the opening 104 than the second induction coil 126.

[0202] In this example, the first and second induction coils 124 and 126 are adjacent and substantially continuous. Therefore, there is no gap 208 between the induction coils 124 and 126 at point P. However, in other examples, there may be a non-zero gap. In such cases, the induction coils 124 and 126 would still be adjacent to each other in the direction along axes 158 and 134.

[0203] In this example, the first induction coil 124 has a length 202 of approximately 20 mm, and the second induction coil 126 has a length 204 of approximately 27 mm. The first wire, which is helically wound to form the first induction coil 124, has an unwound length of approximately 285 mm. The second wire, which is helically wound to form the second induction coil 126, has an unwound length of approximately 420 mm. Although the first and second wires are depicted with rectangular cross-sections, the first and second wires may have different cross-sectional shapes, such as circular cross-sections. Figure 10 shows an example in which the first induction coil 224 and the second induction coil 226 have circular cross-sections.

[0204] Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of the first induction coil 124. Figure 8 shows an enlarged view of the second induction coil 126. In this example, the first induction coil 124 and the second induction coil 126 have different pitches. The first induction coil 124 has a first pitch 210, and the second induction coil has a second pitch 212. The pitch is the length of the induction coil across one complete winding (measured along the longitudinal axis 134 of the device, or along the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor, or along the axis of the induction coil). In another example, each induction coil may have substantially the same pitch.

[0205] Figure 7 shows a first induction coil 124 with approximately 5.75 turns, where one turn is one complete rotation around the axis 158. There is a gap 214 between each consecutive turn. In this example, the length of the gap 214 is approximately 0.9 mm. Similarly, Figure 8 shows a second induction coil 126 with approximately 8.75 turns. There is a gap 216 between each consecutive turn. In this example, the length of the gap 216 is approximately 1 mm. In this example, the mass of the first induction coil 124 is approximately 1.4 g, and the mass of the second induction coil 126 is approximately 2.1 g.

[0206] In another example, the first induction coil 124 has approximately 6.75 turns. In some examples, the gap between consecutive turns may be the same in each induction coil.

[0207] Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-section of another heating assembly. The heating assembly can be used with device 100. The assembly includes a first induction coil 224 and a second induction coil 226 arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis 258 of the susceptor 232 (which is also parallel to the longitudinal axis 134 of device 100). The susceptor 232 may be substantially the same as the susceptor 132 described in relation to Figures 1-8. The first and second induction coils 224 and 226 are helically wound around an insulating member 228, which may be substantially the same as the insulating member 128 described in relation to Figures 1-8.

[0208] The first and second induction coils 224 and 226 operate and can be operated in substantially the same manner as the first and second induction coils 124 and 126 described in relation to Figures 1-8. In certain examples, the first induction coil 224 is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device 100 than the second induction coil 226. The first induction coil 224 is shorter than the second induction coil 226 as measured in a direction parallel to the axes 134 and 258.

[0209] Unlike the example in Figure 6, in this heating configuration, the first and second induction coils 224 and 226 are adjacent but not continuous. Therefore, there is a gap between the induction coils 224 and 226. However, in other examples, there may be no gap.

[0210] Furthermore, unlike the examples in Figures 6-8, the first and second wires (which constitute the first and second induction coils 224 and 226, respectively) have a circular cross-section, but the first and second wires can be replaced with wires having different cross-sectional shapes.

[0211] Furthermore, in this example, there is no gap 302 between consecutive windings in either the first or second induction coils 224 or 226.

[0212] Furthermore, in this example, the pitches of both the first and second induction coils 224 and 226 are substantially the same. For example, the pitch could be between approximately 2 mm and 4 mm, or between approximately 3 mm and 4 mm.

[0213] Other characteristics and dimensions of induction coils 224 and 226 may be the same as or different from those described in relation to Figures 6-8.

[0214] Figure 9 shows the outer circumference of the first induction coil 224, which is positioned at a distance of 304 from the susceptor 232. Similarly, the outer circumference of the second induction coil 226 is positioned at the same distance of 304 from the susceptor. Thus, the first and second induction coils have substantially the same outer diameter 306. Figure 9 also shows the inner diameters 308 of the first and second induction coils 224 and 226 as substantially the same.

[0215] The "outer periphery" of the induction coils 224 and 226 is the edge of the induction coil that is furthest from the outer surface 232a of the susceptor 232 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 258.

[0216] In Figures 6-8, the outer circumference of the first induction coil 124 is also positioned at substantially the same distance from the susceptor 132 as the outer circumference of the second induction coil 126.

[0217] In one example, the inner diameter of the first and second induction coils 124, 224, 224, and 226 is approximately 12 mm in length, and the outer diameter is approximately 14.6 mm in length.

[0218] Figure 10 shows a portion of another exemplary heating assembly for use in device 100. In this example, the rectangular cross-section Litz wire forming the induction coil is replaced with an induction coil containing circular cross-section Litz wire. Other functions of the device are substantially the same. The heating assembly includes a first induction coil 224 and a second induction coil 226 arranged adjacent to each other in a direction along the axis 200. In other examples, the wires forming the first and second induction coils 224, 226 may have different cross-sectional shapes, such as a rectangular cross-section.

[0219] The axis 200 may be defined, for example, by one or both of the induction coils 224, 226. The axis 200 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100) and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the susceptor 158. Thus, each induction coil 224, 226 extends around the axis 200. Alternatively, the axis 200 may be defined by the insulating member 128 or the susceptor 132.

[0220] The first and second induction coils 224 and 226 are arranged adjacent to each other in a direction along the axis 200. The induction coils 224 and 226 extend spirally around the insulating member 128. The susceptor 132 is located inside the tubular insulating member 128.

[0221] As described in relation to Figure 6, during use, the first induction coil 224 is activated first. However, in another example, the second induction coil 226 is activated first.

[0222] In certain embodiments of this disclosure, the length 202 of the first induction coil 224 is shorter than the length 204 of the second induction coil 226. The length of each induction coil is measured in a direction parallel to the axis 200 of the induction coils 224, 226. In some examples, the first shorter induction coil 224 is positioned closer to the mouth end (proximal end) of the device 100 than the second induction coil 226, while in other examples, the second longer induction coil 226 is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device 100.

[0223] In one example, the first induction coil 224 has a length 202 of approximately 15 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length 204 of approximately 25 mm. Therefore, the ratio of the second length 204 to the first length 202 is approximately 1.7, for example, approximately 1.67. In another example, the first induction coil 224 has a length 202 of approximately 15 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length 204 of approximately 30 mm. Therefore, the ratio of the second length 204 to the first length 202 is approximately 2. In yet another example, the first induction coil 224 has a length 202 of approximately 20 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length 204 of approximately 25 mm. Therefore, the ratio of the second length 204 to the first length 202 is between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.3, for example, approximately 1.25. In another example, the first induction coil 224 has a length 202 of approximately 20 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length 204 of approximately 30 mm. Therefore, the ratio of the second length 204 to the first length 202 is approximately 1.5. In yet another example, the first induction coil 224 has a length 202 of approximately 14 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length 204 of approximately 28 mm. Therefore, the ratio of the second length 204 to the first length 202 is approximately 2. In yet another example, the first induction coil 224 has a length 202 of approximately 15 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length 204 of approximately 45 mm. Therefore, the ratio of the second length 204 to the first length 202 is approximately 3.

[0224] In a preferred example, the first induction coil 224 has a length 202 between approximately 19 and 21 mm, such as approximately 20.3 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length 204 between approximately 26 mm and 28 mm, such as approximately 26.2 mm. Thus, the ratio of the second length 204 to the first length 202 is between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.5, for example, approximately 1.3.

[0225] As mentioned above, in some examples, the first induction coil 224 has a length of approximately 20 mm, such as approximately 20.3 mm, and the second induction coil 226 has a length of approximately 27 mm, such as approximately 26.6 mm.

[0226] As shown in Figure 10, the Litz wire of the first induction coil 224 is wound approximately 6.75 times around the axis 200, and the Litz wire of the second induction coil 226 is wound approximately 8.75 times around the axis 200. The Litz wire does not form an integer number of turns because some ends of the Litz wire are bent away from the surface of the insulating member 128 before the complete winding is finished. Therefore, the ratio of the number of turns of the second induction coil 226 to the number of turns of the first induction coil 224 is approximately 1.3.

[0227] In the case of the first induction coil 224, the winding density (i.e., the ratio of the number of turns to the first length 202) is approximately 0.33 mm -1 In the case of the second induction coil 226, the winding density (i.e., the ratio of the number of turns to the second length 204) is approximately 0.33 mm. -1 Therefore, the first and second induction coils 224 and 226 have substantially the same winding density, and as a result, the susceptor 132 and the aerosol generating material 110a are heated more uniformly.

[0228] In other examples, the first induction coil 224 may have a first length 202 which is between approximately 15 mm and approximately 21 mm. The winding density is approximately 0.2 mm -1 ~about 0.5mm -1 It could be between, but approximately 0.25 mm -1 ~about 0.35mm -1 It is preferable that the length be between these two values. The second induction coil 226 may have a second length 204 which is between approximately 25 mm and approximately 30 mm. The winding density is approximately 0.2 mm -1 ~about 0.5mm -1 It could be between, but approximately 0.25 mm -1 ~about 0.35mm -1 For example, about 0.3 mm -1 ~about 0.35mm -1 It is preferable that the winding density be between these ranges. Winding densities within these ranges are particularly well suited for heating the susceptor 132. In some examples, the winding density of the first coil is about 0.05 mm different from the winding density of the second coil. -1 They differ only by a fraction of a second.

[0229] These winding densities may also be applicable to Litz wires with different cross-sectional shapes, such as rectangular cross-sections.

[0230] In one example, the first induction coil 224 has about 5 to 7 turns. In some examples, the second induction coil 226 has about 8 to 10 turns. In further examples, the induction coils have a different number of turns than those mentioned. In any case, the ratio of the number of turns of the second induction coil 126 to the number of turns of the first induction coil 124 is preferably between about 1.1 and about 1.8.

[0231] In one example, a first wire wound helically to form a first induction coil 224 has an unwound length of approximately 315 mm. A second wire wound helically to form a second induction coil 226 has an unwound length of approximately 400 mm. In another example, a first wire wound helically to form a first induction coil 224 has an unwound length of approximately 285 mm. A second wire wound helically to form a second induction coil 226 has an unwound length of approximately 420 mm.

[0232] Each induction coil 224, 226 is formed from Litz wire containing multiple strands. For example, each Litz wire can have approximately 50 to 150 strands. In this example, each Litz wire has approximately 75 strands. In some examples, the strands are grouped into two or more bundles, each bundle containing several strands such that the sum of the strands in all bundles equals the total number of strands. In this example, there are five bundles of 15 strands each.

[0233] Each strand has a diameter. For example, the diameter can be between approximately 0.05 mm and 0.2 mm. In some examples, the diameter is between 34 AWG (0.16 mm) and 40 AWG (0.0799 mm), where AWG is the US wire gauge. In this example, the diameter of each strand is 38 AWG (0.101 mm). Therefore, the radius of the Litz wire can be between approximately 1 mm and 2 mm. In this example, the radius of the Litz wire is between approximately 1.3 mm and 1.4 mm.

[0234] Figure 10 shows the gaps between consecutive windings. These gaps can be, for example, between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 2 mm.

[0235] In some examples, each induction coil 224, 226 has the same pitch, where the pitch is the length of the induction coil across one complete winding (measured along the axis 200 of the induction coil or along the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor). In other examples, each induction coil 224, 226 has a different pitch.

[0236] In this example, the mass of the first induction coil 224 is approximately 1.4 g, and the mass of the second induction coil 226 is approximately 2.1 g.

[0237] In one example, the inner diameter of the first and second induction coils 224, 224, 224, and 226 is approximately 12 mm in length, and the outer diameter is approximately 14.6 mm in length.

[0238] In a specific example, the first, shorter induction coil 224 is positioned closer to the mouthpiece (proximal end) of the device 100 than the second induction coil 226. When the aerosol-generating material is heated, the aerosol is released. When the user inhales, the aerosol is drawn towards the mouthpiece of the device 100 in the direction of arrow 206. The aerosol exits the device 100 through the opening / mouthpiece 104 and is inhaled by the user. The first induction coil 224 is positioned closer to the opening 104 than the second induction coil 226. It has been found that by making the length 202 of the first induction coil 224 shorter than the length 204 of the second induction coil 226, hot puffs can be reduced or avoided. Since the amount of aerosol-generating material heated by the first induction coil 224 is less than the amount of aerosol-generating material heated by the second induction coil 226, hot puffs can be reduced.

[0239] In this example, the first and second induction coils 224 and 226 are adjacent and separated by a gap. In other examples, the first and second induction coils 224 and 226 are substantially continuous. Therefore, there is no gap between the induction coils 224 and 226.

[0240] The exemplary induction coils in Figures 7 and 8 may have the same length and / or parameters as those described in Figures 6 and / or 10. Similarly, the induction coils in Figures 6 and / or 10 may have the same length and / or parameters as the induction coils in Figures 7 and / or 8.

[0241] Figure 11 shows an enlarged view of the first induction coil 224. Figure 12 shows an enlarged view of the second induction coil 226. In this example, the first induction coil 224 and the second induction coil 226 have slightly different pitches. The first induction coil 224 has a first pitch 210, and the second induction coil has a second pitch 212. In this example, the first pitch is smaller than the second pitch; more specifically, the first pitch 210 is approximately 2.81 mm, and the second pitch 212 is approximately 2.88 mm. In other examples, the pitches are the same for each induction coil, or the second pitch is smaller than the first pitch.

[0242] Figure 11 shows a first induction coil 224 with approximately 6.75 turns, where one turn is one complete rotation around axis 158 or susceptor 132 or axis 200 of induction coils 224, 226. Between each consecutive turn there is a gap 214. In this example, the length of the gap 214 is approximately 1.51 mm. Similarly, Figure 12 shows a second induction coil 226 with approximately 8.75 turns. Between each consecutive turn there is a gap 216. In this example, the length of the gap 216 is approximately 1.58 mm. The gap size is equal to the difference between the pitch and diameter of the Litz wire. Thus, in this example, the diameter of the Litz wire is approximately 1.3 mm.

[0243] In this example, the mass of the first induction coil 224 is approximately 1.4 g, and the mass of the second induction coil 226 is approximately 2.1 g.

[0244] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-section through the Litz wire forming either of the first and second induction coils 224, 226. As shown, the Litz wire has a circular cross-section (the individual wires forming the Litz wire are not shown for clarity). The diameter of the Litz wire is 218, which can be between approximately 1 mm and approximately 1.5 mm. In this example, the diameter is approximately 1.3 mm.

[0245] FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of either of the induction coils 224, 226. In this example, the induction coils 224, 226 are arranged coaxially with the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132 (however, the susceptor 132 is not shown for clarity).

[0246] FIG. 14 shows induction coils 224, 226 having an outer diameter 222 and an inner diameter 228. The outer diameter 222 can be between about 12 mm and about 16 mm, and the inner diameter 228 can be between about 10 mm and about 14 mm. In this particular example, the inner diameter 228 has a length of about 12.2 mm and the outer diameter 222 has a length of about 14.8 mm.

[0247] FIG. 15 is another exemplary schematic cross-sectional view of the heating assembly. FIG. 15 shows the outer periphery / surface of the induction coils 224, 226 disposed at a distance 304 from the susceptor 232. Thus, the first and second induction coils have substantially the same outer diameter 306. FIG. 15 also shows the inner diameters 308 of the first and second induction coils 224, 226 as being substantially the same.

[0248] The "outer periphery" of the induction coils 224, 226 is the edge of the induction coil disposed farthest from the outer surface 132a of the susceptor 132 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158.

[0249] As shown, the inner surfaces of the induction coils 224, 226 are disposed at a distance 310 from the outer surface 132a of the susceptor 132. The distance can be between about 3 mm and about 4 mm, such as about 3.25 mm.

[0250] Unlike the example of FIG. 9, there are gaps 214, 216 between successive turns of the first and second induction coils 224, 226.

[0251] In an alternative example, the first length (of the first coil) could be between approximately 14 mm and 23 mm, and the second length (of the second coil) could be between approximately 23 mm and 28 mm. More specifically, the first length could be approximately 19 mm (±2 mm), and the second length could be approximately 25 mm (±2 mm). In this alternative example, the first coil could have approximately 5 to 7 turns, and the second coil could have approximately 4 to 5 turns. For example, the first coil could have approximately 6.75 turns, and the second coil could have approximately 4.75 turns. Therefore, the ratio of turns in the long coil to the number of turns in the short coil is approximately 1.42. In the first coil, the ratio of turns to length is approximately 0.36 mm. -1 In the second coil, the ratio of turns to length is approximately 0.2 mm. -1 For example, approximately 0.19 mm -1 That is the case.

[0252] In this alternative example, the second coil may have a pitch that varies over its length. For example, the second coil may have a first number of turns with a first pitch and a second number of turns with a second pitch, where the second pitch is greater than the first pitch. In a particular example, the second coil has about 3 to 4 turns with a pitch between about 2 mm and 3 mm and 1 turn with a pitch between about 18 mm and 22 mm. Specifically, the second coil has 3.75 turns with a pitch of 2.81 mm and 1 turn with a pitch of 20 mm. Thus, the second coil may have a total of 4.75 turns. Thus, the second coil is wound more densely towards one end of the coil. In one example, the first part of the second coil has a first number of turns with a first (smaller) pitch, and the second part of the second coil has a second number of turns with a second (larger) pitch, with the first part being closer to the proximal / mouth end of the device than the second part.

[0253] The embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative examples of the present invention. Further embodiments of the present invention are conceivable. It should be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features described, and may be used in combination with one or more features of any other embodiment, or in combination with any other embodiment. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0254] List of clauses The following numbering clauses, rather than being claims, provide additional disclosures relating to the concepts described herein. Article 1 An aerosol supply device that defines a longitudinal axis, wherein the device is It comprises a first coil and a second coil, The first coil is configured to heat a first section of a heater component, and the heater component is configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The second coil is configured to heat the second section of the heater component, The first coil has a first length along the longitudinal axis, and the second coil has a second length along the longitudinal axis, with the first length being shorter than the second length. The first coil is adjacent to the second coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis, An aerosol supply device in which, during use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path of the device toward the proximal end of the device, and the first coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second coil. Article 2 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 1, wherein the heater component is a susceptor configuration, and the device further comprises the susceptor configuration. Article 3 The aerosol supply device according to clause 1 or 2, further comprising a mouthpiece disposed at the proximal end of the device, wherein the first coil is disposed closer to the mouthpiece than the second coil. Article 4 The aerosol supply device according to clause 1, 2, or 3, wherein the outer circumference of the first coil is positioned substantially the same distance from the heater component as the outer circumference of the second coil. Article 5 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 1 to 4, wherein the first coil and the second coil are substantially continuous. Article 6 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 1 to 5, wherein the first and second coils are helical. Article 7 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 6, wherein the first coil and the second coil have different pitches. Article 8 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 6, wherein the first coil and the second coil have substantially the same pitch. Article 9 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 8, wherein the aforementioned pitch is between approximately 2 mm and approximately 4 mm. Clause 10 The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the first length is between approximately 14 mm and approximately 21 mm, and the second length is between approximately 25 mm and approximately 30 mm. Article 11 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 1 to 10, wherein the first coil comprises a first wire having a length between approximately 250 mm and approximately 300 mm, and the second coil comprises a second wire having a length between approximately 400 mm and approximately 450 mm. Article 12 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 1 to 11, wherein the first coil has approximately 5 to 7 turns and the second coil has approximately 8 to 9 turns. Article 13 The first coil has gaps between consecutive turns, each gap having a length of approximately 0.9 mm, and the second coil has gaps between consecutive turns, each gap having a length of approximately 1 mm. The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 12. Clause 14 The first coil has a mass between about 1 g and about 1.5 g, and the second coil has a mass between about 2 g and about 2.5 g. The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 13. Clause 15 The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 14, further comprising a controller configured to sequentially energize the first coil and the second coil, and to energize the first coil before the second coil. Clause 16 The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 15, and an article containing an aerosol generating material comprising an aerosol supply system. Clause 17 An aerosol supply device defining a longitudinal axis, the device comprising a first coil and a second coil, the first coil being configured to heat a first section of a heater component, the heater component being configured to heat an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol, the second coil being configured to heat a second section of the heater component, the first coil having a first length along the longitudinal axis, the second coil having a second length along the longitudinal axis, the first coil being adjacent to the second coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis, the ratio of the second length to the first length being greater than about 1.1. The aerosol supply device. Clause 18 The ratio is between about 1.2 and about 3. The aerosol supply device according to clause 17. Clause 19 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 17 or 18, wherein the first length is between approximately 14 mm and approximately 21 mm. Article 20 The aerosol supply device according to clause 17, 18, or 19, wherein the second length is between approximately 20 mm and approximately 30 mm. Article 21 The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 17 to 20, wherein the first length is approximately 20 mm and the second length is approximately 27 mm. Article 22 During use, the aerosol is drawn in along the flow path of the device toward the proximal end of the device, and the first coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second coil, according to any one of the clauses 17 to 21. Article 23 The aerosol supply device according to clause 22, further comprising a mouthpiece disposed at the proximal end of the device, wherein the first coil is disposed closer to the mouthpiece than the second coil. Article 24 The heater component is a susceptor configuration, and the device further comprises the susceptor configuration, according to any one of the clauses 17 to 23, an aerosol supply device. Article 25 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 24, wherein the outer circumference of the first coil is positioned substantially the same distance from the susceptor configuration as the outer circumference of the second coil. Article 26 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 17 to 25, wherein the first coil and the second coil are substantially continuous. Article 27 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 17 to 26, wherein the first and second coils are helical. Article 28 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the claims 17 to 27, further comprising a controller configured to sequentially energize the first coil and the second coil, and to energize the first coil before the second coil. Article 29 An aerosol supply device that defines a longitudinal axis, wherein the device is The heating system comprises a heating element including a first heater element and a second heater element, The first heater component is configured to generate an aerosol by heating a first section of the aerosol-generating material received by the aerosol supply device. The second heater component is configured to generate an aerosol by heating the second section of the aerosol generating material. The first heater component has a first length along the longitudinal axis, and the second heater component has a second length along the longitudinal axis. The first heater component is adjacent to the second heater component in a direction along the longitudinal axis, An aerosol supply device in which the ratio of the second length to the first length is between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.5. Article 30 an aerosol supply device as described in any one of clauses 17 to 29, Articles containing aerosol-generating materials and an aerosol supply system equipped with the following features. Article 31 A first induction coil is provided, configured to generate a changing magnetic field for heating a susceptor, the susceptor having a defined longitudinal axis and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol, The first induction coil is helical and has a first length along the longitudinal axis, The first induction coil has a first number of turns around the susceptor, The ratio of the first number of turns to the first length is approximately 0.2 mm. -1 ~about 0.5mm-1 An aerosol supply device that falls between these two categories. Article 32 The ratio of the first number of turns to the first length is approximately 0.3 mm. -1 ~about 0.35mm -1 An aerosol supply device as described in Clause 31, which is between the above. Article 33 The aerosol supply device according to clause 31 or 32, wherein the first induction coil is formed from a Litz wire having about 50 to about 100 strands. Article 34 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 31 to 33, wherein the first length is between approximately 15 mm and approximately 21 mm, and the first number of turns is between approximately 6 and approximately 7. Article 35 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 34, wherein the first length is between approximately 18 mm and approximately 21 mm, and the first number of turns is between approximately 6.5 and approximately 7. Article 36 The system further comprises a second induction coil having a second length along the longitudinal axis and a second number of turns around the susceptor, wherein the ratio of the second number of turns to the second length is approximately 0.2 mm. -1 ~about 0.5mm -1 An aerosol supply device as described in any one of clauses 31 to 35, which is between the two. Article 37 The ratio of the second number of turns to the second length is approximately 0.3 mm. -1 ~about 0.35mm -1 An aerosol supply device as described in Clause 36, which is between the two. Article 38 The absolute difference between the ratio of the second turn count to the second length and the ratio of the first turn count to the first length is approximately 0.05 mm. -1 An aerosol supply device as described in Clause 36 or 37, which is less than [amount missing]. Article 39 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 36 to 38, wherein the second induction coil is formed from a Litz wire having about 50 to about 100 strands. Article 40 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 36 to 39, wherein the second length is between approximately 25 mm and approximately 30 mm, and the second number of turns is between approximately 8 and approximately 9. Article 41 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 40, wherein the second length is between approximately 25 mm and approximately 28 mm, and the second number of turns is between approximately 8.5 and approximately 9. Article 42 During use, the aerosol is drawn towards the proximal end of the device along the flow path of the device, and the first induction coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second induction coil, according to any one of the claims 36 to 41. Article 43 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 36 to 42, comprising the susceptor. Article 44 an aerosol supply device as described in any one of clauses 31 to 43, Articles containing aerosol-generating materials and an aerosol supply system equipped with the following features. Article 45 It comprises a first induction coil and a second induction coil, The first induction coil is configured to generate a first changing magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor configuration, and the susceptor configuration is configured to heat an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The second induction coil is configured to generate a second changing magnetic field for heating the second section of the susceptor configuration. The first induction coil has a first number of turns around the axis defined by the susceptor, The second induction coil has a second number of turns around the axis, An aerosol supply device in which the ratio of the second number of turns to the first number of turns is between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.8. Article 46 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 45, wherein the ratio is between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.5. Article 47 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 46, wherein the ratio is between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.4. Article 48 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 47, wherein the ratio is between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.3. Article 49 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 45, wherein the first number of turns is between approximately 5 and approximately 6, and the second number of turns is between approximately 8 and approximately 9. Article 50 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 45 or 46, wherein the first number of turns is between approximately 6 and approximately 7, and the second number of turns is between approximately 8 and approximately 9. Article 51 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 48, wherein the first number of turns is approximately 6.75 and the second number of turns is approximately 8.75. Article 52 During use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path of the device toward the proximal end of the device, and the first induction coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second induction coil, according to any one of the claims 45 to 51. Article 53 The aerosol supply device according to any one of the clauses 45 to 52, wherein the first induction coil has a first length along the axis, and the second induction coil has a second length along the axis, and the first length is shorter than the second length. Article 54 The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 45 to 52, wherein the first induction coil has a first length along the axis, and the second induction coil has a second length along the axis, the first length being between approximately 14 mm and approximately 21 mm, and the second length being between approximately 25 mm and approximately 30 mm. Article 55 an aerosol supply device as described in any one of clauses 45 to 54, Articles containing aerosol-generating materials and an aerosol supply system equipped with the following features.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply system, The system comprises an aerosol supply device that defines the longitudinal axis and a heater component, wherein the aerosol supply device is It comprises a first coil, a second coil, and a controller. The first coil is configured to heat a first section of the heater component, and the heater component is configured to heat an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol. The second coil is configured to heat the second section of the heater component, The first coil is adjacent to the second coil in the direction along the longitudinal axis, The first coil and the second coil have different pitches. The second coil has a first number of turns having a first pitch and a second number of turns having a second pitch, wherein the second pitch is greater than the first pitch. The first coil has a third pitch, An aerosol supply system in which the controller is configured to control the timing at which the first coil and the second coil are activated.

2. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the third pitch of the first coil is greater than the first pitch and the second pitch of the second coil.

3. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein, during use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path of the device toward the proximal end of the device, and the first coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second coil.

4. The aerosol supply system according to claim 3, further comprising an opening located at the proximal end of the device, wherein the first coil is located closer to the opening than the second coil.

5. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the first coil and the second coil are directly adjacent to each other.

6. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the second coil has a pitch that varies over its length.

7. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the second coil is wound more tightly toward one end of the second coil.

8. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the heater component is a susceptor configuration.

9. The aerosol supply system according to claim 8, wherein the susceptor configuration comprises a single susceptor, the single susceptor comprising a first section of the heater component configured to be heated by the first coil, and a second section of the heater component configured to be heated by the second coil.

10. The aerosol supply system according to claim 8, wherein the susceptor configuration comprises a first susceptor and a second susceptor aligned in the axial direction, the first coil is configured to heat the first susceptor and the second coil is configured to heat the second susceptor.

11. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a heater component configured to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating material.

12. The aerosol supply system according to claim 11, wherein the heater component forms a housing and the heater component is arranged to receive the aerosol generating material.

13. The aerosol supply system according to claim 8, wherein the device is configured to receive an article comprising an aerosol generating material, and the article comprises the susceptor configuration.

14. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the first coil has a different number of turns than the second coil.

15. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the first coil and the second coil are separated from each other.

16. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the first coil and the second coil are operable independently.

17. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the first coil and the second coil are operated sequentially.

18. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the first coil has a first length along the longitudinal axis, and the second coil has a second length along the longitudinal axis, and the first length is shorter than the second length.

19. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, further comprising an article containing an aerosol generating material.

20. An aerosol supply system, The aerosol supply device comprises an aerosol supply device that defines a longitudinal axis and forms an opening into which aerosols are drawn, and a heater component, wherein the device It comprises a first coil and a second coil, The first coil is configured to heat a first section of the heater component, and the heater component is configured to heat an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol. The second coil is configured to heat the second section of the heater component, The first coil is adjacent to the second coil in the direction along the longitudinal axis, The first coil and the second coil have different pitches. The second coil has a pitch that varies along its length, and the second coil has a first number of turns having a first pitch and a second number of turns having a second pitch, wherein the second pitch is greater than the first pitch, and the second coil is wound more tightly toward the end of the second coil that is closer to the mouth end. An aerosol supply system configured such that, in at least one heating mode, the first coil and the second coil simultaneously heat the heater component.

21. An aerosol supply system, The device comprises an aerosol supply device that defines the longitudinal axis and a heater component, wherein the device is It comprises a first coil and a second coil, The first coil is configured to heat a first section of the heater component, and the heater component is configured to heat an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol. The second coil is configured to heat the second section of the heater component, The first coil is adjacent to the second coil in the direction along the longitudinal axis, The first coil and the second coil have different pitches. The second coil has a pitch that varies along its length, and at least one winding of the second coil has a pitch that is greater than the pitch of the first coil. Multiple of the coils are configured to operate in two or more heating modes. An aerosol supply system in which the plurality of coils are operated simultaneously in one of the two or more heating modes.

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