Induction heating module for use in an aerosol generator

Abstract

The present invention relates to an induction heating module for use alternatively with at least first and second inductively heatable aerosol-generating articles, where the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained in the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained in the second article. The induction heating module includes a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of the first or second aerosol-generating article, and an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field to inductively heat the susceptor of the first or second article when received in the cavity. The induction heating module further includes a magnetic flux concentrator arrangement including a movable flux concentrator movable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration so as to selectively focus the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil in a first region or a second region within the cavity. The first region is associated with the size and / or position of a first type of susceptor within the cavity when a first item is received within the cavity, and the second region is associated with the size and / or position of a second type of susceptor within the cavity when a second item is received within the cavity. The present application further relates to an aerosol generation device comprising such an induction heating module, and an aerosol generation system comprising such a device, at least one first item, and at least a second item.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an induction heating module for an induction-heated aerosol generating device configured for alternative use with at least two different types of inductively heatable aerosol-generating articles. The invention further relates to an aerosol generating device comprising such an induction heating module. Additionally, the invention relates to an aerosol generating system comprising such a device, at least one aerosol-generating article of a first type, and at least one aerosol-generating article of a second type. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol-generating devices that use induction heating to generate inhalable aerosols are generally known from the prior art. Such devices may include an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field that induces at least one of heat-generating eddy currents or hysteresis losses in a susceptor, which in turn heats it. Consequently, the susceptor is disposed in thermal proximity or direct physical contact with an aerosol-forming substrate capable of forming an inhalable aerosol upon heating. The susceptor and substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article that is at least partially receivable within a cavity of the device. The cavity and induction coil may be part of an induction heating module, which may form one of several components that make up the device.

[0003] The heating process essentially depends on the field distribution of the alternating magnetic field within the cavity, and the field distribution should ideally be properly matched to the susceptor dimensions and susceptor position within the cavity. For example, an article containing elongated susceptor elements embedded within a solid aerosol-forming substrate may require a correspondingly elongated field distribution. In contrast, an article having a compact susceptor in contact with a liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is to be aerosolized within a short period of time may require a reasonably strong field concentrated on the susceptor. As these two examples illustrate, article-specific requirements for magnetic field distribution can often vary significantly. For this reason, aerosol-generating devices using induction heating are typically designed for only one type of aerosol-generating article.

[0004] In general, it would be desirable to have an induction heating module and an induction heating aerosol generator that possess the advantages of prior art solutions while mitigating their limitations. In particular, it would be desirable to have an induction heating module and an induction heating aerosol generator that are configured for alternative use with at least two different types of inductively heatable aerosol-generating articles. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an induction heating module for use with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, i.e., at least a first type and a second type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, alternatively, wherein the first article (the first type of article) comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article (the second type of article) comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article. The induction heating module comprises a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of the first or second aerosol-generating article. The induction heating module further comprises an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field for inductively heating the susceptor of the first or second article, respectively, when received within the cavity. Additionally, the induction heating module includes a magnetic flux concentrator arrangement including a flux concentrator movable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration so that an alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is selectively concentrated in a first region or a second region within the cavity, the first region being associated with a size and / or position of a first type of susceptor within the cavity when a first item is received within the cavity, and the second region being associated with a size and / or position of a second type of susceptor within the cavity when a second item is received within the cavity.

[0006] The movable flux concentrator may be transitionable between a first configuration and a second configuration to modify the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between concentrating it in a first region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the first configuration and concentrating it in a second region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the second configuration. The modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between concentrating it in the first region within the cavity and concentrating it in the second region within the cavity may be due to transitioning of the movable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration without a change in the position of the induction coil relative to the cavity. The modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between concentrating it in the first region within the cavity and concentrating it in the second region within the cavity may be due entirely to transitioning of the movable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0007] As used herein, the terms "first aerosol-generating article" and "second aerosol-generating article" should be understood as being representative of two articles of different types or two different types of aerosol-generating article, i.e., a first type of aerosol-generating article and a second type of aerosol-generating article.

[0008] In accordance with the present invention, it has been discovered that a versatile induction heating module for alternate use with different types of inductively heatable articles can be readily realized by implementing a movable flux concentrator capable of modifying the characteristics of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil within the cavity depending on which type of article is received within the cavity. Advantageously, the characteristics of the magnetic field can be modified so that, when each type of article is received within the cavity, the magnetic field is concentrated in a respective region within the cavity occupied by each susceptor of a particular article type. As an example, if the first article (first type of article) used in the induction heating module comprises a first type of susceptor that is a compact susceptor for heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the movable flux concentrator may be arranged in a first configuration such that, when the first article is received within the cavity, the magnetic field generated by the induction coil is concentrated in a small, first region where the first type of susceptor is located during use. Due to the magnetic field concentration in a small area, the magnetic flux in the first area may increase, which allows for instantaneous heating of the liquid substrate, particularly on a smoke-pumping (smoking on demand) basis. In contrast, if the second article (second type of article) used in the heating module comprises, for example, an elongated second type of susceptor, particularly a continuously heated strip-like susceptor element, the movable flux concentrator may be moved to a second configuration (different from the first configuration) such that, when the second article (second type of article) is received in the cavity, the magnetic field extends over a corresponding elongated second area (different from the first area) in the cavity that matches the cavity position and dimensions of the second type of elongated susceptor.

[0009] Overall, the proposed transferable flux concentrator allows a single aerosol generating device to be used with a wider range of different aerosol generating articles, rather than having to use a separate device for each type of article.

[0010] As used herein, the terms "magnetic flux concentrator arrangement," "translatable flux concentrator," and "fixed flux concentrator" (see below) each refer to an arrangement or component comprising a material with a high relative magnetic permeability that functions to guide and concentrate the magnetic field or lines of force generated by an induction coil. In this regard, the term "high relative permeability" refers to a relative permeability of at least 50 or 100, particularly at least 1,000, preferably at least 10,000, even more preferably at least 50,000, and most preferably at least 80,000. These exemplary values ​​refer to maximum values ​​of relative permeability at frequencies up to 50 kHz and temperatures of 25°C. The term "relative permeability" refers to the ratio of the permeability of a material or medium, such as a flux concentrator, to the permeability of free space, μ_0, where μ_0 is 4π·10 -7 N.A. -2 (4·Pi·10E-07 Newtons per square ampere).

[0011] As used herein, the terms “transitionable flux concentrator” and “flux concentrator transitionable between a first configuration and a second configuration” may each refer to different types of transitionability. Specifically, these terms may include “displacing the flux concentrator / flux concentrator is transitionable between a first position and a second position” or “changing the spatial shape of the flux concentrator / flux concentrator is transitionable between a first configuration and a second configuration.” In this regard, “displaceable” may refer to mechanical displacement, particularly a change in the position of the center of mass of the transitionable flux concentrator. Similarly, “changing the spatial shape of the flux concentrator” may include a deformation of the transitionable flux concentrator, such as bending, extending, or compressing the transitionable flux concentrator, or a change in the spatial arrangement of multiple flux concentrator elements forming the transitionable flux concentrator relative to one another.

[0012] As defined above, the first region is configured to match at least one of the dimensions of the first type susceptor and the cavity position of the first type susceptor when the first article is received in the cavity. In particular, the first region may have a length extension along the length axis of the cavity similar to the length extension of the first type susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. Similarly, the first region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the length axis of the cavity similar to the lateral extension of the first type susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. For example, the first region may have a length extension along the length axis of the cavity in the range of 2 millimeters to 7 millimeters, particularly 3 millimeters to 5 millimeters. Similarly, the first region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the length axis of the cavity in the range of 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, particularly 2 millimeters to 3 millimeters. Conversely, the second region may be configured to match at least one of the dimensions of the second type susceptor and the cavity position of the second type susceptor when the second article is received in the cavity. In particular, the second region may have a length extension along the length axis of the cavity similar to the length extension of the second type susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. Similarly, the second region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the length axis of the cavity similar to the lateral extension of the second type susceptor measured in the same direction when received in the cavity. For example, the second region may have a length extension along the length axis of the cavity in the range of 4 millimeters to 12 millimeters, particularly 5 millimeters to 8 millimeters. Similarly, the second region may have a lateral extension perpendicular to the length axis of the cavity in the range of 2 millimeters to 6 millimeters, particularly 3 millimeters to 4 millimeters.

[0013] The transitionable flux concentrator may be configured to be transitionable from a first configuration to a second configuration, preferably from the second configuration to or towards the first configuration by user interaction, particularly manually. To this end, the flux concentrator arrangement may include a transition mechanism, such as a slider or pusher, coupled to the transitionable flux concentrator.

[0014] The transitionable flux concentrator is preferably configured to be transitionable from the first configuration to the second configuration by inserting a second article (a second type of article) into the cavity. Advantageously, this allows the device to be automatically adapted for use with the second article (a second type of article) without the user having to take any additional action. To this end, the transitionable flux concentrator may be constructed and arranged to mechanically interact with the second article when inserted into the cavity to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration. Details and examples of the mechanical interaction between the second article and the transitionable flux concentrator are described further below.

[0015] Furthermore, the transitionable flux concentrator may be configured to be transitionable from the second configuration to or towards the first configuration by removing the second article from the cavity, and thus the device is automatically (re)adaptable / (re)configurable for use with the first article (first type of article) without the user having to take any additional action.

[0016] The transition of the transitionable flux concentrator from the second configuration to or towards the first configuration may be achieved in different ways.

[0017] The transitionable flux concentrator may also be constructed and arranged to mechanically interact with the second article when removed from the cavity so as to transition from the second configuration towards or to the first configuration.

[0018] Alternatively, or additionally, the flux concentrator arrangement may include a return mechanism constructed and arranged to transition the transitionable flux concentrator from the second configuration toward or to the first configuration when the second article is removed from the cavity.

[0019] The return mechanism preferably includes at least one spring that biases the transitionable flux concentrator toward or toward the first configuration, such that the transitionable flux concentrator is automatically returned from the second configuration toward or to the first configuration when the second article is removed from the cavity.

[0020] The spring may be attached to a distal end wall of the cavity. In this way, the distal end wall of the cavity may act as a backstop for the spring such that the spring may be compressed when mechanically interacting with the transitionable flux concentrator, for example, when a second item is inserted distally into the cavity through the proximal insertion opening of the cavity. As used herein, sections that, in use, are closer to the insertion opening or closer to the user's mouth are respectively designated with the prefix "proximal." Sections that are disposed farther apart are designated with the prefix "distal."

[0021] When the transitionable flux concentrator is displaced between a first configuration and a second configuration, particularly between a first position and a second position, the trajectory of the displacement may depend on the shape and configuration of the cavity. If the cavity has a length axis, the transitionable flux concentrator may be transitionable for movement along the length axis of the cavity between a first position corresponding to the first configuration and a second position corresponding to the second configuration. If the length axis of the article is linear / straight, the deliverable flux concentrator may be transitionable for linear / straight movement (displaceable linearly or along a linear / straight trajectory) along the length axis of the cavity between a first position corresponding to the first configuration and a second position corresponding to the second configuration.

[0022] The induction coil may be a fixed induction coil.

[0023] The induction coil may be fixedly disposed relative to the cavity.

[0024] The movable flux concentrator may be movable relative to the induction coil. For example, if the movable flux concentrator is movable between the first and second configurations by being displaceable between a first position and a second position, the movable flux concentrator may be movable between the first and second configurations by being displaceable relative to the induction coil between the first and second positions. The movable flux concentrator may be movable between the first and second configurations by being displaceable relative to the induction coil between the first and second positions, thereby modifying the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between concentrating it in a first region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the first position and concentrating it in a second region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the second position.

[0025] When the movable flux concentrator is inserted distally into the cavity and removed proximally from the cavity, for example, through a proximal insertion opening of the cavity, the first position is more proximal and the second position is more distal relative to the proximal insertion opening of the cavity.

[0026] The transitionable flux concentrator may have any shape and structure that allows transitionability between a first configuration and a second configuration. Specifically, if transitionable, the transitionable flux concentrator may include a solid flux concentrator body, preferably a single solid flux concentrator body. Advantageously, a solid flux concentrator body is easy to manufacture. Additionally, a solid flux concentrator body provides enhanced robustness, particularly when the transitionable flux concentrator is configured to mechanically interact with, e.g., contact, a second item.

[0027] As mentioned above, the terms “magnetic flux concentrator arrangement,” “translatable flux concentrator,” and “fixed flux concentrator” (see below) as used herein each refer to an arrangement or component comprising a material with a high relative magnetic permeability that functions to guide and concentrate the magnetic field or lines of force generated by an induction coil. Thus, the translateable flux concentrator preferably comprises, and is particularly made of, a material or materials having a relative magnetic permeability of at least 100, particularly at least 1000, preferably at least 10,000, even more preferably at least 50,000, and most preferably at least 80,000. These values ​​preferably refer to the maximum relative magnetic permeability at a frequency of up to 50 kHz and a temperature of 25° C. In this regard, the translateable flux concentrator may comprise any suitable material or be made of a combination of materials. The movable flux concentrator, and particularly the solid flux concentrator body of the movable flux concentrator, preferably comprises a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material, such as a ferrite material, e.g., ferrite particles or powder held in a matrix, or any other suitable material, including ferromagnetic materials such as iron, ferromagnetic steel, silicon steel, or ferromagnetic stainless steel. The matrix may also include a binder, e.g., a polymer (e.g., silicone). Thus, the matrix may be a polymeric matrix, such as a silicone matrix. The ferromagnetic material may include at least one metal selected from iron, nickel, and cobalt and combinations thereof, and may include other elements, such as chromium, copper, molybdenum, manganese, aluminum, titanium, vanadium, tungsten, tantalum, and silicon. The ferromagnetic material may include about 78 weight percent to about 82 weight percent nickel, 0 to 7 weight percent molybdenum, and the remainder iron. Exemplary translational flux concentrators, and particularly the solid flux concentrator body of the translational flux concentrator, may include or be made of Permalloy, which is a nickel-iron magnetic alloy that typically contains additional elements such as molybdenum, copper, and / or chromium.As another example, a movable flux concentrator, particularly a solid flux concentrator body of a movable flux concentrator, may include or be made of mu-metal. Mu-metal is a soft, ferromagnetic nickel-iron alloy with a very high magnetic permeability of approximately 80,000-100,000. For example, mu-metal may include approximately 77 weight percent nickel, 16 weight percent iron, 5 weight percent copper, and 2 weight percent chromium or molybdenum. Similarly, mu-metal may include 80 weight percent nickel, 5 weight percent molybdenum, small amounts of various other elements such as silicon, and the remaining 12-15 weight percent iron.

[0028] Materials with high relative magnetic permeability are often brittle and therefore may easily break into fragments when subjected to excessive force, resulting in a loss of integrity of the flux concentrator and potentially reduced magnetic flux through the fragmented flux concentrator. As a remedy, the transferable flux concentrator, particularly the solid flux concentrator body of the transferable flux concentrator, may be at least partially covered by a bonding layer. Advantageously, the bonding layer may function as a support layer fixedly connected to at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator (the solid flux concentrator body of the transferable flux concentrator). Due to the fixed connection, the bonding layer keeps the potential fragments of the transferable flux concentrator connected, i.e., in place, in the event of breakage into fragments. It has been found that in this range, the effectiveness of the transferable flux concentrator may still be sufficient if the fragments of the transferable flux concentrator are close enough together to still be able to effectively concentrate magnetic flux. In addition to the bonding function, the bonding layer may also have shock-absorbing properties. This may advantageously even make it possible to prevent breakage of the transferable flux concentrator, ie to protect the integrity of the transferable flux concentrator in the event of impact with excessive force.

[0029] The bonding layer may be fixedly coupled to at least a portion of the transferable flux concentrator by at least one of adhesive bonding, cladding, welding, plating, depositing, and coating, particularly by dip coating or roll coating or vapor deposition coating.

[0030] The bonding layer is preferably a coating that covers at least a portion of the surface of the transferable flux concentrator. Advantageously, the coating can be easily applied after manufacture of the deliverable flux concentrator but before assembly into the induction heating module. The coating process advantageously provides a uniform bond across most, or even the entire, surface of the transferable flux concentrator.

[0031] The bonding layer may have a layer thickness in the range of 0.1 micrometers to 200 micrometers, in particular 0.2 micrometers to 150 micrometers, preferably 0.5 micrometers to 100 micrometers. Alternatively, the bonding layer may have a layer thickness in the range of 0.5 micrometers to 200 micrometers. Advantageously, such a layer thickness does not substantially affect the outer dimensions of the transferable flux concentrator.

[0032] The bonding layer is preferably a polymeric bonding layer. Polymeric bonding layers prove beneficial because they are flexible and therefore impact resistant. Additionally, polymeric bonding layers can enable simple processing. The bonding layer may comprise or consist of a poly(p-xylylene) polymer, particularly a chemical vapor deposition poly(p-xylylene) polymer. For example, the bonding layer may comprise or consist of parylene, e.g., Parylene C, Parylene N, Parylene D, or Parylene HT. The term "parylene" refers to a group of poly(p-xylylene) polymers, particularly chemical vapor deposition poly(p-xylylene) polymers often used as moisture and dielectric barriers. Parylene is biostable, biocompatible, and approved for medical use (FDA [Food and Drug Administration] approved). Parylene is optically transparent, flexible, and chemically inert, thus providing high corrosion protection. Parylene is thermally stable and has a melting point above 290°C or even higher, depending on the specific parylene type. This makes parylene particularly suitable for use in induction-heated aerosol generating systems. Parylene can be advantageously applied as a thin film or coating to a variety of substrates, including metals, glass, varnishes, plastic materials, ferrite materials, or silicones, among others. Parylene coatings can preferably be applied to substrates as pore-free, transparent polymeric films by resublimation from the gas phase under vacuum, particularly at room temperature (e.g., 20°C). This process can provide uniform layer formation that is mechanically stable, wear-resistant, generates low mechanical stress, and does not exhibit outgassing. In addition, vapor deposition coating under vacuum allows multiple substrates to be coated simultaneously, making it a suitable process for mass production.

[0033] In addition to the movable flux concentrators, the magnetic flux concentrator arrangement may also include fixed flux concentrators, preferably arranged and configured to have an overall concentrating function, in particular to conduct the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil as a whole towards the interior space of the cavity.

[0034] For this reason, the fixed flux concentrator is preferably disposed around at least a portion of the cavity. Similarly, the fixed flux concentrator may be disposed around at least a portion of the induction coil, particularly when the induction coil is disposed around at least a portion of the cavity, particularly around at least a portion of the cavity's periphery. In this configuration, the fixed flux concentrator can most effectively conduct and concentrate the alternating magnetic field in the interior space of the cavity. In addition, disposing the fixed flux concentrator around at least a portion of the induction coil advantageously reduces the extent to which the magnetic field propagates beyond the induction coil. That is, the fixed flux concentrator also functions as a magnetic shield. This can reduce undesired heating of adjacent sensitive components, such as a metal outer housing, of the induction heating module or of the aerosol generating device in which the module is used. This configuration also helps reduce undesired heating of the induction heating module or of adjacent sensitive items external to the aerosol generating device in which the module is used. Overall, reducing undesired heating losses can further improve the efficiency of the induction heating module.

[0035] In general, the fixed flux concentrator may have any shape, more preferably a shape that matches the shape of the induction coil and / or cavity around which it is preferably at least partially disposed. For example, the fixed flux concentrator may have a substantially cylindrical shape, particularly a sleeve-shaped or tubular shape. That is, the fixed flux concentrator may be a tubular fixed flux concentrator, a fixed flux concentrator sleeve, or a cylindrical fixed flux concentrator. Such shapes are particularly preferred when the induction coil has a substantially cylindrical shape, especially when the induction coil is a helical induction coil having a substantially cylindrical shape. Similarly, tubular, sleeve, or cylindrical shapes may also prove advantageous in relation to the cylindrical shape of the cavity.

[0036] In this regard, it should be noted that the induction coil may have a substantially cylindrical shape. In particular, the induction coil may be a cylindrical helical coil. Similarly, the cavity may have a substantially cylindrical shape. When received within the interior space of the induction coil, the induction coil preferably has an axial length extension similar to the axial length extension of at least one of the first type susceptor and the second type susceptor measured in the same direction. For example, the induction coil may have an axial length ranging from 4 millimeters to 12 millimeters, in particular from 5 millimeters to 8 millimeters.

[0037] In the above-described configurations, the fixed flux concentrator may completely surround the induction coil and / or cavity along at least a portion of the axial length extension of the induction coil and / or cavity. As viewed in a plane perpendicular to the actual length extension of the induction coil and / or cavity, the flux concentrator may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the flux concentrator may have a square, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or similar cross-sectional shape. Preferably, the flux concentrator has a circular cross-section. For example, the flux concentrator may have an annular cylindrical shape.

[0038] It is also possible for the fixed flux concentrator to extend only partially circumferentially around the periphery of the induction coil and / or cavity.

[0039] In any of the foregoing configurations, the fixed flux concentrator may be disposed coaxially with the centerline of the induction coil and / or the centerline of the cavity.

[0040] Advantageously, the fixed flux concentrator may include, and in particular may be made of, flux concentrator foil. The use of flux concentrator foil proves advantageous due to its flexible nature, which provides good shock absorption properties and can therefore withstand higher excessive force impacts or shocks without breaking. Additionally, flux concentrator foil allows for a more compact design of the induction heating module due to its small dimensions (small thickness). The use of flux concentrator foil also allows for compensation for manufacturing tolerances and fine-tuning of inductance. In this regard, flux concentrator foil can advantageously help enhance the impedance stability of the induction coil over temperature. As used herein, the term "foil" refers to a thin sheet material having a thickness much smaller than the dimension in any direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, and the term "thickness" refers to the dimension of the foil perpendicular to the main surface of the foil. Preferably, the flux concentrator foil may have a layer thickness in the range of 0.02 mm to 0.25 mm, in particular 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm, preferably 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm, or 0.04 mm to 0.08 mm, or even 0.03 mm to 0.07 mm. Such values ​​allow for a particularly compact design of the aerosol generating device. Moreover, these values ​​are still large enough to adequately conduct and concentrate the alternating magnetic field within the cavity.

[0041] Similar to the movable flux concentrator, the fixed flux concentrator, particularly the flux concentrator foil, preferably comprises or is made of a material or materials having a relative permeability of at least 100, particularly at least 1000, preferably at least 10,000, even more preferably at least 50,000, and most preferably at least 80,000. These values ​​preferably refer to the maximum relative permeability at a frequency of up to 50 kHz and a temperature of 25°C. In particular, the fixed flux concentrator or flux concentrator foil may comprise or be made of one of the materials further disclosed above with respect to the movable flux concentrator. The fixed flux concentrator or flux concentrator foil preferably comprises or is made of at least one of permalloy or a nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy. By way of example, the fixed flux concentrator or flux concentrator foil may comprise or be made of an alloy available from MAGNETEC GmbH (Germany) under the trademark Nanoperm®. Nanoperm® alloy is an iron-based nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy containing about 83 weight percent to about 89 weight percent iron. As used herein, the term "nanocrystalline" refers to a material having a grain size of about 5 nanometers to 50 nanometers. As another example, a fixed flux concentrator or flux concentrator foil may include or be made from alloys available from VACUUMSCHMELZE GmbH & Co. KG (Germany) under the trademarks Vitroperm® or Vitrovac®. While Vitrovac® alloys are amorphous (metallic glasses), Vitroperm® alloys are nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloys. For example, a transferable flux concentrator foil may include or be made from Vitroperm 220, Vitroperm 250, Vitroperm 270, Vitroperm 400, Vitroperm 500, or Vitroperm 800.As yet another example, the fixed flux concentrator or flux concentrator foil may include or be made of brazing foil available under the trademark Metglas® from Metglas®, Inc. (USA) or Hitachi Metals Europe GmbH (Germany). Metglas® brazing foil is an amorphous nickel-based brazing foil.

[0042] Generally, the flux concentrator foil can be either a single-layer flux concentrator foil or a multi-layer flux concentrator foil. For example, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may comprise a substrate layer film and at least one layer of ferromagnetic material disposed on the substrate layer. According to another embodiment, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may comprise a multi-layer stack including one or more pairs of layers, each pair including a spacing layer and a layer of ferromagnetic material disposed on the spacing layer. According to yet another embodiment, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may comprise a substrate layer and a multi-layer stack disposed on the substrate layer, the multi-layer stack including one or more pairs of layers, each pair including a spacing layer and a layer of ferromagnetic material disposed on the spacing layer. In addition, the multi-layer flux concentrator foil may include at least one of a protective layer (e.g., made of a polymer or ceramic) or an adhesive layer, which preferably forms at least one of the two outermost layers (edge ​​layers) of the multi-layer flux concentrator foil.

[0043] The flux concentrator foil may be wrapped around the periphery of the induction coil and / or cavity, particularly in one or more turns.

[0044] Additionally, the induction heating module may include a radial gap between the induction coil / cavity and a fixed flux concentrator at least partially surrounding the induction coil / cavity. The gap may be air or filled with a filler material, such as polyimide, e.g., poly(4,4'-oxydiphenylene-pyromellitic imide), also known as Kapton®, or any other suitable dielectric material. The gap may have a radial extension ranging from 40 micrometers to 400 micrometers, particularly from 100 micrometers to 240 micrometers, e.g., 220 micrometers. Advantageously, the gap may help reduce losses in the induction coil and increase losses in the heated susceptor, i.e., increase the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating device.

[0045] The induction heating module may include a conductive shield, particularly a conductive shield wrapper disposed around the fixed flux concentrator. Advantageously, the conductive shield serves to shield the environment of the induction heating module from magnetic fields within the module.

[0046] The induction heating module may further include a coil support for supporting the induction coil. The coil support may be disposable within a device housing of the aerosol generating device with which the induction heating module is used. In particular, the coil support may include a sleeve portion, the interior space of which preferably defines a cavity for receiving the first and second items.

[0047] The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generating apparatus for use alternatively with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (first type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) and a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article), wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article. The aerosol generating apparatus comprises an inductive heating module according to the present invention and as described herein. Preferably, at least one of the first and second articles is the first and second articles according to the present invention and as described, respectively.

[0048] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" is used to refer to an electrically operated device capable of alternatively interacting with one of a first and a second article to generate an aerosol within the article by inductively heating the first or second substrate through interaction of the respective susceptors with an alternating magnetic field provided by the device. The aerosol generating device is preferably a smoke extractor for generating an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user through the user's mouth. Specifically, the aerosol generating device is a handheld aerosol generating device.

[0049] The aerosol generating device may comprise a device housing in which the induction heating module is located or disposed.

[0050] The aerosol generating device, and in particular the device housing, may be configured so that the hollow interior space of the induction heating module is freely accessible from outside the device to allow insertion of the first or second aerosol-generating article therein.

[0051] The aerosol generating device may further include an alternating current (AC) generator. The AC generator is operably coupled to the induction coil. Specifically, the induction coil may be an integral part of the AC generator. The AC generator is configured to generate a high-frequency oscillating current that passes through the induction coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. The AC current may be supplied to the induction coil continuously after activation of the system, or may be supplied intermittently, such as after each puff.

[0052] The aerosol generating device may include a power supply, particularly a DC power supply, configured to provide a (DC) supply voltage and a (DC) supply current for powering the operation of the device, particularly for powering the AC generator. Preferably, the power supply is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. The power supply may have a capacity sufficient to allow continuous generation of aerosol for approximately six minutes, or a multiple of six minutes. Similarly, the power supply may have a capacity sufficient to allow a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activation of the induction heating module.

[0053] If the power source is a DC power source, the aerosol generating device, in particular the AC generator, may comprise a DC / AC converter connected to the DC power source to provide an AC current passing through the induction coil. The DC / AC converter may comprise a power amplifier, in particular a switching power amplifier, more particularly a single-ended switching power amplifier, preferably one of a class C power amplifier, a class D power amplifier or a class E power amplifier.

[0054] The aerosol generating device is preferably configured to generate a high frequency varying magnetic field. As referred to herein, the high frequency varying magnetic field may have a frequency in the range of 500 kHz to 30 MHz, in particular 5 MHz to 15 MHz, preferably 5 MHz to 10 MHz.

[0055] The aerosol-generating device may further comprise a controller configured to control operation of the device, in particular the controller may be configured to control heating of the aerosol-forming substrate to a predetermined operating temperature, in particular to different predetermined operating temperatures associated with each of the first and second articles.

[0056] The aerosol generating device may further include a puff detector, such as a microphone or pressure sensor, for detecting a user puff, i.e., the onset of a user experience when the user initiates a puff on the device. The puff detector may be operably connected to the controller, such that detection of the occurrence of a puff by the puff detector may trigger delivery of power to the induction coil for generating the aerosol. That is, the controller may be configured to initiate operation of the heating arrangement, in particular generation of the alternating magnetic field, in response to the puff detector detecting the occurrence of a user puff.

[0057] Further features and advantages of the aerosol generating device have already been described with respect to the induction heating module of the present invention and apply equally.

[0058] The present disclosure further relates to a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (first type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) for use in an induction heating module according to the invention or in an aerosol-generating device according to the invention, the first article comprising a first type of susceptor and configured such that a shiftable flux concentrator of the induction heating module is in, and preferably remains in, a first configuration upon insertion into a cavity of the first article.

[0059] For this purpose, the first article is preferably configured such that the movable flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other during insertion of the first article, or at least during a section, particularly a major section of the insertion movement or insertion path of the first article within the cavity.

[0060] As an example, the first article may include at least one recess, particularly at least one distal recess, for receiving the transitional flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitional flux concentrator therein so that the transitional flux concentrator is in, and preferably remains in, the first configuration upon insertion of the first article into the cavity. The at least one distal recess may be configured so that the transitional flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitional flux concentrator received therein does not mechanically interact with the first article during at least a section, particularly a major section, of the insertion or insertion path of the first article within the cavity. The transitional flux concentrator may mechanically interact with the first article at a predetermined (final) position of the first article within the cavity or when the first article has reached or is about to reach the predetermined (final) position within the cavity. In this position of the first article, the transitional flux concentrator may contact, and particularly abut, a surface of the first article, particularly a surface of at least one recess, such as a bottom surface of the at least one recess.

[0061] The first article may be configured to provide an aerosol from a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Thus, the first article may comprise a liquid reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate therein. The liquid reservoir may be a refillable liquid reservoir. The liquid reservoir may contain the liquid aerosol-forming substrate (which is the first aerosol-forming substrate).

[0062] Specifically, when the first aerosol-forming substrate is a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the first type of susceptor may include or be a mesh susceptor, a filament susceptor, or a wick susceptor. In any of these configurations, the susceptor advantageously has the ability to perform both the functions of drawing (transporting) and heating the aerosol-forming liquid. In any of the aforementioned configurations, the susceptor may be considered a liquid transport susceptor. In any of these configurations, the first type of susceptor is preferably in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir in which the aerosol-forming liquid can be / is stored. As an alternative to or in addition to a liquid transport susceptor, the first article may include a liquid transport element, such as a wick, that provides fluid communication of the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir to the first type of susceptor.

[0063] It is possible that the first type of susceptor can include or be a susceptor sleeve, susceptor cup, cylindrical susceptor, tubular susceptor, susceptor blade, susceptor strip, or susceptor plate.

[0064] The first type of susceptor preferably matches the dimensions of a first region within the cavity of the induction heating module in which the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is concentrated when the movable flux concentrator is in the first configuration. For example, the first type of susceptor may have a length extension, measured along the longitudinal axis of the cavity when the first article is received within the cavity, in the range of 2 to 7 millimeters, particularly 3 to 5 millimeters. Similarly, the first type of susceptor may have a lateral extension, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity when the first article is received within the cavity, in the range of 1 to 5 millimeters, particularly 2 to 3 millimeters.

[0065] Further features and advantages of the first article (the first type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) have been described with respect to the inductive heating module of the present invention and apply equally.

[0066] The present disclosure further relates to a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (second type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) for use in an induction heating module according to the invention or in an aerosol-generating device according to the invention, the second article preferably comprising a second type of susceptor and configured to mechanically interact with the transitionable flux concentrator, or at least part of it, when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transitioning the transitionable flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0067] To this end, the second article may comprise a contact surface at a distal end thereof configured to contact the transitionable flux concentrator, or at least a portion of the transitionable flux concentrator, upon insertion of the second article into the cavity, thereby enabling the transitional flux concentrator to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration upon further insertion of the second article into the cavity. For example, as described above, the transitional flux concentrator may be movable between the first and second configurations by being displaceable (e.g., relative to the induction coil) between the first and second positions. In this case, the second article may comprise a contact surface at a distal end thereof configured to contact the transitional flux concentrator, or at least a portion of the transitional flux concentrator, upon insertion of the second article into the cavity, thereby enabling the transitional flux concentrator to transition from the first position to the second position (e.g., relative to the induction coil) upon further insertion of the second article into the cavity.

[0068] The second article may be configured to provide an aerosol from a solid or gel-like aerosol-forming substrate (being the second aerosol-forming substrate). Thus, the second article may comprise a second aerosol-forming substrate (being the second aerosol-forming substrate) that is a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0069] The second type of susceptor may be an elongated susceptor. The second type of susceptor may be a flat susceptor or a sheet-like susceptor, particularly an elongated flat susceptor or an elongated sheet-like susceptor. The flat susceptor or sheet-like susceptor may include or be a susceptor blade, susceptor strip, or susceptor plate, particularly an elongated susceptor blade, elongated susceptor strip, or elongated susceptor plate.

[0070] As already described above with respect to the first type susceptor, the second type susceptor preferably matches the dimensions of the second region within the cavity of the induction heating module in which the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is concentrated when the movable flux concentrator is in the second configuration. For example, the first type susceptor may have a length extension, measured along the longitudinal axis of the cavity when the second item is received therein, of 4 to 12 millimeters, particularly 5 to 8 millimeters. Similarly, the second type susceptor may have a lateral extension, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity when the second item is received therein, of 2 to 6 millimeters, particularly 3 to 4 millimeters.

[0071] Preferably, the second type of susceptor is disposed in thermal contact with or in thermal proximity to the second aerosol-forming substrate, and in particular, the second type of susceptor may be embedded within the second aerosol-forming substrate.

[0072] Further features and advantages of the second article (the second type of inductively heatable aerosol-generating article) are described with respect to the inductive heating module of the present invention and apply equally.

[0073] As used, the terms "first aerosol-generating article / first type of aerosol-generating article" and "second aerosol-generating article / second type of aerosol-generating article" refer to an article that includes or has the ability to store / contain at least one aerosol-forming substrate that releases a volatile compound that can form an aerosol when heated. The first type and / or second type of aerosol-generating article may be consumable products, particularly consumable products that are discarded after a single use.

[0074] As used herein, the term "susceptor element" refers to an element capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat when subjected to a varying magnetic field. This can be the result of at least one of hysteresis loss or eddy currents induced within the susceptor, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the susceptor material. Hysteresis loss occurs in ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic susceptors due to magnetic domains within the susceptor material being switched under the influence of the varying magnetic field. Eddy currents may be induced if the susceptor is conductive. In the case of conductive ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic susceptors, heat can be generated due to both eddy currents and hysteresis loss. Thus, the first and second types of susceptors can be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the respective aerosol-forming substrate. Preferred susceptors of the first or second types may include a ferromagnetic material, such as ferritic iron, or ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel. Suitable susceptors may be or include aluminum. Preferred susceptors may be formed from 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, or grade 420, or grade 430 stainless steel.

[0075] Generally, the first and second aerosol-forming substrates may be formed from or contain aerosol-forming materials capable of releasing a volatile compound upon heating to generate an aerosol. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates are preferably intended to be heated, rather than combusted, to release the aerosol-forming volatile compound. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates may be solid aerosol-forming substrates, liquid aerosol-forming substrates, gel-like aerosol-forming substrates, or any combination thereof. As noted above, the first aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, i.e., an aerosol-forming liquid. The aerosol-forming liquid may contain both solid and liquid aerosol-forming materials or components. The aerosol-forming liquid may be an aqueous aerosol-forming liquid or an oil-based aerosol-forming liquid. Similarly, the second aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a solid aerosol-forming substrate, a gel-like aerosol-forming substrate, or any combination thereof. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates may comprise tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the substrates upon heating. Alternatively, or additionally, the first and second aerosol-forming substrates may comprise non-tobacco materials. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates may further comprise an aerosol former. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerin and propylene glycol. The first and second aerosol-forming substrates, particularly the aerosol-forming liquids, may also contain other additives and ingredients (such as nicotine or flavoring agents). In particular, the aerosol-forming liquid may contain water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavors.

[0076] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generating device according to and as described herein, and at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (article of a first type), in particular at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (article of a first type) according to the present invention and as described herein, and at least one second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (article of a second type), in particular at least one second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article (article of a second type) according to the present invention and as described herein.

[0077] In particular, the first article may comprise a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article may comprise a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article.

[0078] As described above with respect to the first article, the transitional flux concentrator and the first article may be configured such that the transitional flux concentrator is in, and preferably remains in, the first configuration upon insertion into the cavity of the first article. Similarly, the transitional flux concentrator and the first article may be configured such that the transitional flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other when the first article is inserted into the cavity. To this end, the first article may include at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transitional flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitional flux concentrator therein such that the transitional flux concentrator is in, and preferably remains in, the first configuration upon insertion into the cavity of the first article. For further details of the mutual configuration of the transitional flux concentrator and the first article, please refer to the above description of the induction heating module and the first article according to the present invention.

[0079] As further mentioned above, the first article preferably comprises a liquid reservoir containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0080] In contrast to the first article, the second article is preferably configured to mechanically interact with the transitional flux concentrator, or at least a portion thereof, when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transitioning the transitional flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration. To this end, the second article may comprise a contact surface at a distal end thereof configured to contact the transitional flux concentrator, or at least a portion thereof, upon insertion of the second article into the cavity, thereby enabling the transitional flux concentrator to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration upon further insertion of the second article into the cavity. For example, as described above, the transitional flux concentrator may be movable between the first and second configurations by being displaceable (e.g., relative to the induction coil) between the first and second positions. In this case, the second article may comprise a contact surface at a distal end thereof configured to contact the transitionable flux concentrator, or at least a portion of the transitionable flux concentrator, upon insertion of the second article into the cavity, and thus enable displacement of the transitionable flux concentrator (e.g., relative to the induction coil) from a first position to a second position upon further insertion of the second article into the cavity. Further details of the mutual configuration of the transitionable flux concentrator and the second article have already been described above with respect to the induction heating module and the first article. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the respective descriptions.

[0081] As noted above, the second article preferably comprises a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0082] Further features and advantages of the aerosol generation system are described with respect to the induction heating module, aerosol generating device, first item and second item of the present invention and apply equally. [Example]

[0083] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features described above, for example, with any one or more features of other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0084] Example 1: An induction heating module for alternative use with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article, the induction heating module comprising: a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of the first item or the second item; an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field for inductively heating a susceptor of each of the first or second articles when received within the cavity; an induction heating module comprising: a magnetic flux concentrator arrangement including a flux concentrator that is transitionable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration so that an alternating magnetic field of an induction coil is selectively concentrated in a first region or a second region within the cavity, the first region being associated with the dimensions and / or position of a first type of susceptor within the cavity when a first item is received within the cavity, and the second region being associated with the dimensions and / or position of a second type of susceptor within the cavity when a second item is received within the cavity. Example 2: 2. The induction heating module of example 1, wherein the transitionable flux concentrator is transitionable from a first configuration to a second configuration by insertion of a second item. Example 3: An induction heating module as described in any one of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the transitional flux concentrator is constructed and arranged to mechanically interact with the second item when inserted into the cavity to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration. Example 4: An induction heating module as described in any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the transitional flux concentrator is transitionable from the second configuration to or towards the first configuration by removing the second article from the cavity. Example 5: An induction heating module according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the transitional flux concentrator is configured and arranged to mechanically interact with the second article when removed from the cavity to transition from the second configuration to or towards the first configuration. Example 6: 6. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the flux concentrator arrangement includes a return mechanism configured and arranged to transition the transitionable flux concentrator from the second configuration toward or to the first configuration when the second article is removed from the cavity. Example 7: 7. The induction heating module of example 6, wherein the return mechanism includes at least one spring that biases the transitionable flux concentrator toward or into the first configuration. Example 8: 8. The induction heating module of example 7, wherein the spring is attached to a distal end wall of the cavity. Example 9: An induction heating module according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the movable flux concentrator is movable between the first configuration and the second configuration by movement, in particular linear movement, along the length axis of the cavity between a first position corresponding to the first configuration and a second position corresponding to the second configuration. Example 10: 10. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1-9, wherein the first location is more proximal and the second location is more distal relative to a proximal insertion opening of the cavity. Example 11: 11. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the movable flux concentrator comprises a solid flux concentrator body. Example 12: 12. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the movable flux concentrator comprises a ferromagnetic material, such as a ferrite material held in a binder, a ferrite powder, or a ferromagnetic steel, in particular a ferromagnetic stainless steel. Example 13: 13. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1-12, wherein the movable flux concentrator is at least partially covered by a bonding layer. Example 14: 14. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the bonding layer comprises or consists of a poly(p-xylylene) polymer. Example 15: 15. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1-14, wherein the magnetic flux concentrator arrangement comprises a fixed flux concentrator. Example 16: 16. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1-15, wherein a fixed flux concentrator is disposed around the induction coil. Example 17: 17. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the fixed flux concentrator comprises a flux concentrator foil, in particular a multi-layer flux concentrator foil. Example 18: 18. The induction heating module of example embodiment 17, wherein the flux concentrator foil comprises at least one of permalloy or a nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy. Example 19: 19. The induction heating module according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the induction coil has a substantially cylindrical shape. Example 20: 20. The induction heating module according to any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein the induction coil is a cylindrical spiral coil. Example 21: 21. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1-20, wherein the induction coil is disposed around at least a portion of the receiving cavity. Example 22: 22. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the cavity has a substantially cylindrical shape. Example 23: A first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article for use with the induction heating module described in any one of Examples 1 to 22 or any one of Examples 37 to 43, wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor and the movable flux concentrator is configured to be in, and preferably remain in, the first configuration upon insertion into the cavity of the first article. Example 24: The first article of Example 23, wherein the first article is configured such that the transitionable flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other when the first article is inserted into the cavity. Example 25: A first article described in any one of Examples 23 or 24, wherein the first article has at least one recess, particularly at least one distal recess, for receiving the transitional flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitional flux concentrator therein so that the transitional flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration, upon insertion into the cavity of the first article. Example 26: The first article of any one of Examples 23 to 25, wherein the first article comprises a liquid reservoir for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate therein. Example 27: The first article of example 26, wherein the liquid reservoir contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 28: 1. An aerosol generating apparatus comprising at least a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, in particular an aerosol generating apparatus according to the present invention and for use alternatively with the first and second aerosol-generating articles defined herein, wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article, and the aerosol generating apparatus comprises an inductive heating module as defined in any one of Examples 1 to 22 or any one of Examples 37 to 43. Example 29: An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device as described in Example 28, at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, in particular at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article as described in any one of Examples 23 to 27, and at least one second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article. Example 30: An aerosol generating system as described in Example 29, wherein the transitionable flux concentrator and the first article are configured such that the transitionable flux concentrator is in the first configuration upon insertion into the cavity of the first article, preferably remains in the first configuration. Example 31: An aerosol generating system described in either Example 29 or Example 30, wherein the movable flux concentrator and the first article are configured such that the movable flux concentrator and the first article do not mechanically interact with each other when the first article is inserted into the cavity. Example 32: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 29 to 31, wherein the first article has at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transitional flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitional flux concentrator therein so that the transitional flux concentrator is in the first configuration, preferably remains in the first configuration, upon insertion into the cavity of the first article. Example 33: 33. The aerosol-generating system of any one of Examples 29 to 32, wherein the first article comprises a liquid reservoir containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 34: An aerosol generation system described in any one of Examples 29 to 33, wherein the second article is configured to mechanically interact with the transitional flux concentrator or at least a portion thereof when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transitioning the transitional flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration. Example 35: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 29 to 34, wherein the second article has a contact surface at the distal end of the article configured to contact the transitionable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitionable flux concentrator when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transitionable flux concentrator to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article is further inserted into the cavity. Example 36: 36. The aerosol-generating system of any one of Examples 29 to 35, wherein the second article comprises a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 37: 23. The induction heating module of any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the movable flux concentrator is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, and modifies the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between concentrating the magnetic field in a first region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the first configuration and concentrating the magnetic field in a second region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the second configuration, and the modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is due to the transition of the movable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration without changing the position of the induction coil relative to the cavity (e.g., the modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is due to the transition of the movable flux concentrator between the first configuration and the second configuration). Example 38: The induction heating module according to any one of Examples 1 to 22 or Example 37, wherein the induction coil is a fixed induction coil. Example 39: The induction coil of any one of Examples 1 to 22 or Example 37, wherein the induction coil is fixedly disposed relative to the cavity. Example 40: The induction coil of any one of Examples 1-22 or any one of Examples 37-39, wherein the movable flux concentrator is movable relative to the induction coil. Example 41: An induction coil described in any one of Examples 1 to 22 or any one of Examples 37 to 40, wherein the movable flux concentrator is movable between a first position (e.g., a first position corresponding to the first configuration) and a second position (e.g., a second position corresponding to the second configuration), thereby being movable between the first configuration and the second configuration. Example 42: 42. The induction coil of claim 41, wherein the transitional flux concentrator is transitional between the first and second configurations by being displaceable relative to the induction coil between the first and second positions. Example 43: An induction coil as described in example 41 or example 42, wherein the movable flux concentrator is displaceable relative to the induction coil between a first position and a second position, thereby transitioning between a first configuration and a second configuration, thereby modifying the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil between concentrating it in a first region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the first position and concentrating it in a second region within the cavity when the movable flux concentrator is in the second position. Example 44: An aerosol generation system described in any one of Examples 35 or 36, wherein the transitional flux concentrator is transitional between the first configuration and the second configuration by being displaceable (e.g., relative to the induction coil) between a first position and a second position, and wherein the second article has a contact surface at a distal end of the article configured to contact the transitional flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitional flux concentrator when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transitional flux concentrator to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article is further inserted into the cavity. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0085] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures.

[0086] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generation system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generation system according to the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a first aerosol-generating article of the system according to FIGS. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a second aerosol-generating article of the system according to FIGS. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0087] 1 and 2 illustrate, in a simplified manner (not to scale), an exemplary embodiment of an aerosol-generating system 1 according to the present invention. The system 1 comprises at least three components: a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article 100 (a first type of article), a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article 200 (a second type of article), and an aerosol-generating device 10 for alternatively using the first article 100 and the second article 200. The aerosol-generating device 10 is capable of generating an inhalable aerosol in combination with each of the first article 100 and the second article 200 by inductively heating the susceptors 120, 220 of the first article 100 and the second article 200, respectively, which are in thermal contact with the respective aerosol-forming substrates 130, 230 contained in the first and second articles, respectively. Details of the first article 100 and the second article 200 are shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, respectively.

[0088] 2 and 4, the second article 200 is a substantially rod-shaped consumable product comprising five elements arranged consecutively in coaxial alignment: a distal forward plug element 250, a base element 210, a first tube element 240, a second tube element 245, and a filter element 260. The distal forward plug element 250 is disposed at the distal end 202 of the article 200 and covers and protects the distal forward end of the base element 210, and the filter element 260 is disposed at the proximal end 203 of the article 200. Both the distal forward plug element 250 and the filter element 260 may be made of the same filter material. The filter element 260 preferably functions as a mouthpiece, particularly as part of the mouthpiece together with the second tube element 245. The filter element 260 may have a length of 10 to 14 millimeters, e.g., 12 millimeters, and the distal forward plug element 250 may have a length of 3 to 6 millimeters, e.g., 5 millimeters. Each of the first and second tube elements 240 and 245 is a hollow cellulose acetate tube having a central air passage 241, 246, the cross section of which is larger than the cross section of the central air passage 241 of the first tube element 240. The first and second tube elements 240 and 245 may have a length of 6 to 10 millimeters, for example, 8 millimeters. The base element 210 includes a second solid aerosol-forming substrate 230 capable of releasing a volatile compound when heated, and a second type of susceptor 220 for heating the substrate 230. In the present invention, the second type of susceptor 220 is contained within an elongated susceptor strip made of metal, for example, stainless steel, centrally embedded within the second aerosol-forming substrate 230. Thus, upon heating the susceptor strip, the substrate 230 releases a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. 4, the susceptor strips are aligned substantially parallel to the length axis 201 of the second article 200, which extends along the entire length of the base element 210. The susceptor strips have a length extension (along the length axis 201) of about 12 millimeters, a width dimension of about 4 millimeters, and a thickness dimension of about 50 micrometers. Each of the aforementioned elements 250, 210, 240, 245, 260 may be substantially cylindrical.Specifically, all of the elements 250, 210, 240, 245, and 260 may have the same external cross-sectional shape and dimensions. Additionally, the elements may be surrounded by one or more outer wrappers to hold the elements together, maintain the desired cross-sectional shape of the rod-shaped article 200, and so on. In this embodiment, the distal forward plug element 250, the base element 210, and the first tube element 240 are surrounded by a first wrapper 271, and the second tube element 245 and the filter element 260 are surrounded by a second wrapper 272. The second wrapper 272 also surrounds at least a portion of the first tube element 240 (after being wrapped by the first wrapper 271) and connects the distal forward plug element 250, the base element 210, and the first tube element 240, which are surrounded by the first wrapper 271, to the second tube element 245 and the filter element 260. The first wrapper 271 and the second wrapper 272 are preferably made of paper. Additionally, second wrapper 272 may include perforations around its periphery (not shown). Wrappers 271, 272 may further include an adhesive that adheres the overlapping free ends of the wrappers to one another. In use, when a user draws on filter element 260, air is drawn into first article 200 at its distal end 202 and continues to flow past susceptor 220, where volatile compounds released from substrate 230, which is heated during use, are entrained in the airflow. Thereafter, while flowing further downstream through first tube element 240 and second tube element 245 toward mouthpiece 260, the airflow containing the volatilized materials cools, forming an aerosol that escapes second article 200 at its proximal end 203.

[0089] In contrast to the second article 200, which includes a solid substrate 230, the first article 100 contains a first aerosol-forming substrate 130 that is a liquid. Despite the difference in substrate, the first article 100 has substantially the same outer shape and outer dimensions as the second article 200, as can be seen from a comparison of Figures 3 and 4. That is, the first article 100 is also a substantially rod-shaped consumable product resembling the shape of a conventional cigarette. To store the aerosol-forming liquid 130, the first article 100 comprises a liquid reservoir 110 formed by a hollow cylindrical cartridge 111 closed at both axial ends. The cartridge element 111 defines a distal portion of the first article 100. A liquid transport element 113, e.g., a cylindrical element made of porous ceramic, is disposed across the cylindrical inner cavity 112 of the hollow cartridge 111 and provides capillary fluid communication of the liquid substrate 130 from the liquid reservoir 110 to a first type of small susceptor 120. In this embodiment, the first type of susceptor 120 is a susceptor mesh made of metal wrapped circumferentially around a portion of the liquid transport element 113 within the cylindrical inner cavity 112 of the hollow cartridge 111. Therefore, upon heating the first type of susceptor 120, the aerosol-forming liquid 130 provided by the liquid transport element 113 can be volatilized and escape into the inner cavity 112 of the hollow cartridge 111. The susceptor mesh 120 has a length dimension of approximately 5 millimeters measured along the longitudinal axis 101 of the first article 100 and a transverse dimension of approximately 2 millimeters measured parallel to the length extension of the liquid-transporting element 113. Proximal to the cartridge element 111, the first article 100 includes a tube element 145 having a central air passage 146 and a filter element 160. The tube element 145 and filter element 160 preferably function as a mouthpiece defining the proximal portion of the first article 100. Each of the aforementioned elements 111, 145, and 160 has a substantially cylindrical shape with approximately the same outer cross-sectional shape and dimensions. Like the second article 200, the elements 111, 145, and 160 of the first article 100 are surrounded by an outer wrapper 170 to hold the elements together.In use, when a user draws on the filter element 160, air is drawn into the inner cavity 112 of the hollow cartridge 111 at the distal end 102 of the first article 100 and continues to flow past the susceptor mesh 120. There, material vaporized from the aerosol-forming liquid during use is entrained in the airflow through the inner cavity 112. While then flowing further downstream through the tubing element 145 towards the mouthpiece 160, the airflow containing the vaporized material cools to form an aerosol that escapes the first article 100 at its proximal end 103.

[0090] Heating of the susceptors 120, 220 in the first article 100 and the second article 200, respectively, is achieved by interaction with an alternating magnetic field provided by the aerosol generating device 10. To this end, a distal portion of the first article 100 (see FIG. 1 ) or the second article 200 (see FIG. 2 ) can be received in a cylindrical cavity 20 defined in the proximal portion 12 of the device 10. Here, the alternating magnetic field used to heat the respective susceptors 120, 220 is generated by an induction heating arrangement including an induction coil 30. In this embodiment, the induction coil 30 is made of a flat, three-turn coil wire that circumferentially surrounds the cylindrical cavity 20. The induction coil 30 may be fixedly disposed relative to the cavity 20. The induction coil 30 may also be a fixed induction coil.

[0091] Within the distal portion 13, the aerosol generating device 10 further comprises a DC power supply 55 and a controller 50 (shown only diagrammatically) for supplying power and controlling the heating process. Apart from the induction coil 30, the induction heating arrangement is preferably an at least partially integral part of the controller 50. The aerosol generating device 10 according to this embodiment further comprises a puff detector 57 for detecting a user's puff. The puff detector 57 is operatively connected to the controller 50 such that detection of the generation of a puff by the puff detector 57 triggers the delivery of power to the induction coil 30 for generating the alternating magnetic field. To this extent, the aerosol generating device 10 may be referred to as a puff-on-demand device. The puff detector 57 and / or the triggering of power delivery to the induction coil 30 may be active or inactive depending on the type of item currently received in the cavity 20. In this embodiment, the trigger for power delivery to the smoke detector 57 and / or the induction coil 30 may be active when a first item 100 containing a liquid substrate 130 is received within the cavity 20, and inactive when a second item 200 containing a solid substrate 230 is received within the cavity 20.

[0092] As can be further seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 , induction coil 30 is surrounded by a tubular flux concentrator 42 that extends along the entire axial length of induction coil 30 and is fixedly disposed therewith. That is, flux concentrator 42 is stationary. In this embodiment, flux concentrator 42 is a flux concentrator foil comprising a material having high magnetic permeability. Currently, flux concentrator foils include nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloys of various thicknesses and widths, such as Vitroperm®, available from VACUUMSCHMELZE GmbH & Co. KG (Germany) as adhesive-backed ribbons. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , fixed flux concentrator 42 completely surrounds cylindrical induction coil 30 and cavity 20 along its entire axial length extension, having a radial extension (radial thickness) of approximately 50 micrometers. This can be achieved by wrapping one or more turns of flux concentrator foil in one or more layers around the circumference of cylindrical induction coil 30, depending on the actual thickness and width of the foil material. Essentially, flux concentrator 42 acts as a magnetic shield to reduce unwanted heating of or interference with external objects. Additionally, fixed flux concentrator 42 concentrates the magnetic field lines generated by induction coil 30 within the interior space of cavity 20, such that the density of the magnetic field within cavity 20 is increased. Thus, in combination with the cylindrical shape of helical induction coil 30, the alternating magnetic field within cavity 20 is substantially homogeneous, with magnetic field lines extending substantially parallel to the length axis of cavity 20.

[0093] The axial lengths of induction coil 30 and fixed flux concentrator 42 are selected to correspond to the axial length and axial position of second type susceptor 220 when second article 200 is received within cavity 20. That is, induction coil 30 and fixed flux concentrator 42 are designed to substantially concentrate the alternating magnetic field of induction coil 30 in a (second) region 47 within cavity 20 associated with the dimensions and cavity position of second type susceptor 220's elongated, strip-like shape (illustrated schematically by the dotted rectangle in FIG. 2 [not to scale]).

[0094] 1 and 3 with 2 and 4, the dimensions and cavity locations of the more compact first-type susceptor 120 of the first article 100 are significantly different from the dimensions and cavity locations of the elongated, strip-like shape of the second-type susceptor 220 of the second article 200. While the field distribution across the rather elongated second region 47 used to heat the second-type susceptor 220 would also work in principle to heat the more compact first-type susceptor 120 when the first article 100 is received within the cavity 20, the field density may still be too low to allow the apparatus 10 to instantaneously heat the liquid substrate 130 with each puff (puff on demand). According to the present invention, it has been found that the heating performance of the versatile aerosol generating device 10 can be adapted to the specific requirements of various article types by implementing a movable flux concentrator 41 capable of modifying the characteristics of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil 30 within the cavity 20, depending on which type of article 100, 200 is received within the cavity 20, in particular so that the magnetic field is concentrated in the respective regions 46, 47 within the cavity 20 occupied by the respective susceptors 120, 220 when the first article 100 or the second article 200 is received within the cavity 20.

[0095] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the transferable flux concentrator 41 according to this embodiment includes a cylindrical solid flux concentrator body containing ferrite powder with high relative magnetic permeability held in a binder. Because this material is rather brittle, the solid flux concentrator body is coated with a bonding layer. Advantageously, the bonding layer has good shock absorption properties and also serves as a support layer to keep potential fragments of the transferable flux concentrator 41 bonded together in the event of breakage into fragments. The bonding layer is preferably a polymeric bonding layer comprising a vapor-deposited poly(p-xylylene) polymer, e.g., parylene.

[0096] The translational flux concentrator 41 is attached to one end of a helical spring 45, the other end of which is attached to the distal end wall 21 of the cavity 20. The spring 45 biases the translational flux concentrator 41 in a direction toward the insertion opening 23 of the cavity 20, but compression of the spring 45 allows the translational flux concentrator 41 to move in the opposite direction along a linear trajectory parallel to the length axis of the cavity 20 toward the distal end of the cavity.

[0097] 1 , the dimensions of the transitionable flux concentrator 41 are selected so that it can be received within a distal recess 117 of the first article 100 formed by the open-end distal end section of the internal cavity 112 of the hollow cartridge 111. Thus, during insertion of the first article 100 into the cavity 20, the transitionable flux concentrator 41 and the first article 100 do not mechanically interact with each other. As the first article 100 approaches and finally reaches its predetermined final position within the cavity 20, the transitionable flux concentrator 41 can mechanically interact with the first article 100 by abutting a stop element 114 disposed within the internal cavity 112 of the hollow cartridge 111 that defines the bottom surface of the distal recess 117. The stop element 114 is perforated to allow flow into the internal cavity 112 of the hollow cartridge 111. When the first article 100 reaches its predetermined final position within the cavity 20, the bottom surface of the distal recess 117 defines a first configuration, here a first position, of the movable flux concentrator 41. In this position (see FIG. 1 ), the movable flux concentrator 41 modifies the alternating magnetic field provided by the induction coil 30 and shaped by the fixed flux concentrator 42 to concentrate the alternating magnetic field in the above-mentioned first region 46 associated with the size and position of the first type susceptor 120 within the cavity 20 (see FIG. 1 ). As a result, the field strength is locally enhanced in the first region 46, which enables the apparatus 10 to more efficiently heat the second type susceptor 220 and therefore instantaneously heat the liquid substrate 130 on a smoke-pumping basis (pumping on demand).

[0098] However, the field-modifying effect of the movable flux concentrator 41 is only needed when the first article 100 is heated. When the second article 200 is heated, the movable flux concentrator 41 should not affect the field distribution because the field distribution provided by the dimensions and position of the induction coil 30 and the fixed flux concentrator 42 already matches the dimensions and cavity position of the second type susceptor 200. To this end, the movable flux concentrator 41 is movable from a first position to a second configuration, here a second position, closer to the distal end of the cavity 20. In the second position, the movable flux concentrator 41 is positioned completely outside and axially offset sufficiently far from the induction coil 30 and therefore has essentially no effect on the magnetic field of the induction coil 30. That is, in the second position, the alternating magnetic field within the interior space of the induction coil 30 extends over an elongated first region 47 (see FIG. 2 ) determined by the dimensions and position of the induction coil 30 and the fixed flux concentrator 42.

[0099] In this embodiment, the transition of the transitionable flux concentrator 41 from the first configuration to the second configuration is achieved automatically by inserting the second article 200 into the cavity, without any additional action by the user. To this end, the transitionable flux concentrator 41 mechanically interacts with the second article 200 such that the flux concentrator 41 is transitioned from the first configuration to the second configuration when inserted distally into the cavity 20 by abutting against the distal end face of the distal forward plug element 250, which provides the contact surface 251. The reverse is also possible: the transitionable flux concentrator 41 is automatically returned from the second configuration towards the first configuration when the second article 200 is removed proximally from the cavity 20, without any additional action by the user.

[0100] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1-2, when the transitionable flux concentrator 41 mechanically interacts with the second article 200, the transitionable flux concentrator 41 moves from a first position to a second position relative to the (e.g., fixed) induction coil 30 such that the transitionable flux concentrator 41 transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article 200 is inserted distally into the cavity 20 by abutting against the distal end face of the distal forward plug element 250 of the second article 200, which provides the contact surface 251, thereby modifying the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 30 between being concentrated in a first region 46 within the cavity 20 when the transitionable flux concentrator 41 is in the first position and being concentrated in a second region 47 within the cavity 20 when the transitionable flux concentrator 41 is in the second position. The modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 30 is due to the transition of the transitionable flux concentrator 41 from the first configuration to the second configuration without changing the position of the induction coil 30 relative to the cavity 20. The modification of the concentration of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 30 may be entirely due to the transition of the transitionable flux concentrator 41 from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0101] Together, the movable flux concentrator 41 and the fixed flux concentrator 40 form a magnetic flux concentrator arrangement 40 .

[0102] The magnetic flux concentrator arrangement 40 having the movable flux concentrators 41 and the fixed flux concentrators 40, and the induction coil 30 may be part of the induction heating module 15. In addition to the above-mentioned components, the induction heating module 15 may further include a coil support 17 disposed within the apparatus housing 11 for supporting the induction coil 30. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the coil support 17 according to this embodiment includes a sleeve portion 18, the interior space of which defines a cavity 20 for receiving the first item 100 and the second item 200.

[0103] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like are understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum values ​​disclosed, as well as any intermediate ranges contained therein, whether or not specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, a numerical value A would be understood as A ± 5%. In this context, a numerical value A can be considered to include values ​​that fall within the typical standard error of measurement for the property that A modifies. In some instances, as used in the appended claims, a numerical value A may deviate by the percentages recited above, so long as the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum values ​​disclosed, as well as any intermediate ranges contained therein, whether or not specifically recited herein.

Claims

1. An induction heating module for use alternatively with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article, the induction heating module comprising: a cavity configured to removably receive at least a portion of said first article or said second article; an induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field for inductively heating the susceptor of each of the first or second articles when received in the cavity; an induction heating module comprising: a magnetic flux concentrator arrangement including a flux concentrator that is movable between at least a first configuration and a second configuration so that the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil is selectively concentrated in a first region or a second region within the cavity, the first region being associated with the dimensions and / or position of the first type of susceptor within the cavity when the first item is received in the cavity, and the second region being associated with the dimensions and / or position of the second type of susceptor within the cavity when the second item is received in the cavity.

2. The induction heating module of claim 1 , wherein the transitionable flux concentrator is transitionable from the first configuration to the second configuration by insertion of the second item.

3. 3. The induction heating module of claim 1, wherein the transitionable flux concentrator is transitionable from the second configuration to or toward the first configuration by removing the second article from the cavity.

4. 4. The induction heating module of claim 1, wherein the magnetic flux concentrator arrangement comprises a return mechanism, in particular at least one spring, configured and arranged to transition the transitionable flux concentrator from the second configuration towards or to the first configuration when the second item is removed from the cavity.

5. The induction heating module of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the movable flux concentrator comprises a solid flux concentrator body.

6. Induction heating module according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the movable flux concentrator comprises a ferromagnetic material, in particular a ferrite material or a ferromagnetic steel, preferably a ferromagnetic stainless steel.

7. The induction heating module of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the movable flux concentrator is at least partially covered by a bonding layer.

8. An induction heating module according to any preceding claim, wherein the magnetic flux concentrator arrangement comprises a fixed flux concentrator.

9. The induction heating module of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the fixed flux concentrator is disposed around the induction coil.

10. The induction heating module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the induction coil is a fixed induction coil.

11. 11. A first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article for use with an induction heating module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, said first article comprising a first type of susceptor and configured such that the transitional flux concentrator is in, and preferably remains in, said first configuration upon insertion into the cavity of the first article, and said first article comprising at least one recess, in particular at least one distal recess, for receiving the transitional flux concentrator or at least part of the transitional flux concentrator therein such that the transitional flux concentrator is in, and preferably remains in, the first configuration upon insertion into the cavity of the first article.

12. 11. An aerosol generating device for alternative use with at least a first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article and a second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article, and the aerosol generating device comprises an induction heating module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. 13. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generating device according to claim 12, at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, in particular at least one first inductively heatable aerosol-generating article according to claim 11, and at least one second inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, wherein the first article comprises a first type of susceptor for heating a first aerosol-forming substrate contained within the first article, in particular a liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained within a liquid reservoir, and the second article comprises a second type of susceptor for heating a second aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second article.

14. 14. The aerosol generating system of claim 13, wherein the second article is configured to mechanically interact with the transitionable flux concentrator or at least a portion thereof when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby transitioning the transitionable flux concentrator from the first configuration to the second configuration.

15. 15. The aerosol generating system of claim 13, wherein the second article comprises a contact surface at a distal end thereof configured to contact the transitionable flux concentrator or at least a portion of the transitionable flux concentrator when the second article is inserted into the cavity, thereby enabling the transitionable flux concentrator to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration when the second article is further inserted into the cavity.

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