Cartridge with offset susceptor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. The cartridge comprises an inner airflow channel extending along a longitudinal central axis of the cartridge between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge, a proximal portion of the cartridge comprising a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and a distal portion of the cartridge. The distal portion of the cartridge comprises an outer wall, a liquid supply channel, and an internal separation wall. The liquid supply channel is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion. The internal separation wall is disposed between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the inner airflow channel. The distal portion of the cartridge is surrounded by the outer wall. The internal separation wall comprises a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor element is disposed offset with respect to the longitudinal central axis. The internal separation wall is substantially planar. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating system.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

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

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system that has improved energy efficiency. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system that allows the heating element to be quickly heated to a target temperature.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide a cartridge that more efficiently delivers liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid reservoir toward the heating element of the cartridge.It would be desirable to provide a cartridge that improves aerosolization of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide a cartridge with reduced space requirements for the inner airflow channel and the inner liquid feed channel. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge with a reduced size. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge with a reduced outer diameter. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge with a reduced outer diameter in a distal portion of the cartridge such that the outer diameter is similar to the outer diameter of the heated, non-combustion aerosol-generating article. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge that can be used in a general-purpose aerosol generating device that is capable of heating both cartridges having liquid aerosol-forming substrates and heated, non-combustion aerosol-generating articles having solid aerosol-forming substrates.

[0007] It would be desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can be heated more efficiently. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. The cartridge may include an inner airflow channel extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge along a longitudinal central axis of the cartridge. The cartridge may include a proximal portion of the cartridge including a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may include a distal portion of the cartridge. The distal portion of the cartridge may include an outer wall. The distal portion of the cartridge may include a liquid supply channel. The distal portion of the cartridge may include an internal separation wall. The liquid supply channel may be in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion. The separation wall may be disposed between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the inner airflow channel. The distal portion of the cartridge may be surrounded by the outer wall. The separation wall may include a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor element may be disposed offset with respect to the longitudinal central axis.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. The cartridge comprises an inner airflow channel extending along a longitudinal central axis of the cartridge between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge comprises a proximal portion of the cartridge comprising a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge comprises a distal portion of the cartridge. The distal portion of the cartridge comprises an outer wall. The distal portion of the cartridge comprises a liquid supply channel. The distal portion of the cartridge comprises an internal separation wall. The liquid supply channel is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion. The separation wall is disposed between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the inner airflow channel. The distal portion of the cartridge is surrounded by the outer wall. The separation wall comprises a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor element is disposed offset with respect to the longitudinal central axis.

[0010] An aerosol generating system with improved energy efficiency may be provided. An aerosol generating system that allows a heating element to be rapidly heated to a target temperature may be provided. A cartridge that more efficiently supplies a liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid storage portion toward the heating element of the cartridge may be provided. A cartridge with improved aerosolization of an aerosol-forming substrate may be provided. A cartridge with reduced space requirements for the internal airflow channel and the internal liquid supply channel may be provided. A cartridge with reduced size may be provided. A cartridge with a reduced outer diameter may be provided. A cartridge with a reduced outer diameter of a distal portion of the cartridge may be provided, such that the outer diameter of the cartridge may be similar to the outer diameter of the heated non-combustion aerosol-generating article. A cartridge that can be used in a general-purpose aerosol generating device may be provided, which allows heating of both cartridges having liquid aerosol-forming substrates and heated non-combustion aerosol-generating articles having solid aerosol-forming substrates. A cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can be heated more efficiently may be provided.

[0011] By providing a cartridge with a distal portion having an outer wall and a separation wall, a cartridge with a liquid supply channel and a distal portion of an inner airflow channel with a less complex structure can be provided. No additional tubes or wall elements are required to achieve the separate channels. Manufacturing costs can be reduced. A cartridge with reduced space requirements in the distal portion may be provided. By providing a separation wall with a susceptor element, complexity and space requirements can be further reduced.

[0012] Due to the reduced space requirements, a cartridge may be provided with a reduced outer diameter at the distal portion. The reduced diameter may be similar in size to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. For example, a typical outer diameter of a heat-non-combustion article may be about 7 millimeters. A cartridge may be provided that can be used in a universal aerosol generating system having an aerosol generating device with a cavity that can receive both the aerosol-generating article or the cartridge.

[0013] The reduced outer diameter of the cartridge allows for a smaller diameter inductor coil in the aerosol generator, which can provide less heat loss and better inductive coupling, resulting in a more efficient aerosol generation system.

[0014] Due to the reduced space requirements for additional tubes or wall elements or other components, more space may be available for the liquid supply channel and the inner airflow channel. The cross section of one or both of the liquid supply channel and the inner airflow channel may be enlarged. A more efficient aerosol generation system may be provided.

[0015] By disposing the susceptor element offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, the susceptor element can be positioned in close proximity to the windings of the inductor coil of the aerosol generating device in the use configuration. Inductive coupling between the susceptor element and the inductor coil can be improved. A more efficient aerosol generating system can be provided.

[0016] The susceptor element, which is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, may allow the distal portions of the liquid supply channel and the inner airflow channel to be sized differently. For example, the cross-section of the liquid supply channel may exceed the cross-section of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel in a cross-section. The enlarged cross-section of the liquid supply channel may improve the liquid supply rate. The reduced cross-section of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel may increase the airflow velocity within the airflow channel. The reduced cross-section of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel may increase the airflow velocity within the airflow channel proximate the susceptor element. The increased velocity may beneficially increase the cooling rate of the airflow. The increased velocity may improve droplet distribution within the airflow.

[0017] The susceptor elements may be offset from the longitudinal central axis by 5 to 25 percent, preferably 10 to 20 percent, more preferably 12 to 16 percent, and more preferably 13 to 15 percent of the outer diameter of the outer wall in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis. The susceptor elements may be offset from the longitudinal central axis by 0.5 to 2.5 millimeters, preferably 0.5 to 2.0 millimeters, more preferably 0.5 to 1.5 millimeters, more preferably 0.7 to 1.3 millimeters, and more preferably 0.9 to 1.1 millimeters in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

[0018] The susceptor element may be arranged offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel arranged on one side of the susceptor element exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel arranged on the opposite side of the susceptor element.

[0019] The separation wall may be offset relative to the central longitudinal axis. The separation wall may be offset from the central longitudinal axis by 5 percent to 15 percent of the outer diameter of the outer wall in a transverse direction, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0020] According to a first embodiment, the separation wall may be disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that, in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel disposed on one side of the separation wall exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel disposed on the opposite side of the separation wall. The enlarged cross-section of the liquid supply channel may improve the liquid supply rate. The reduced cross-section of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel may increase the airflow velocity within the airflow channel. The reduced cross-section of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel may increase the airflow velocity within the airflow channel adjacent to the susceptor element. The increased velocity may beneficially increase the cooling rate of the airflow. The increased velocity may improve the droplet distribution within the airflow.

[0021] The separation wall may be offset from the longitudinal central axis in a transverse direction such that the width of the distal portion of the airflow channel in the transverse direction is between 40 percent and 80 percent, preferably between 45 percent and 75 percent, of the width of the liquid supply channel, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

[0022] The separation wall may be offset from the central longitudinal axis in a transverse direction such that the width of the distal portion of the airflow channel in the transverse direction is 40 to 60 percent, preferably 45 to 55 percent, of the width of the liquid supply channel, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0023] The separation wall may be offset from the longitudinal central axis in a transverse direction such that the width of the distal portion of the airflow channel in the transverse direction is 60 to 80 percent, preferably 65 to 75 percent, of the width of the liquid supply channel, and the transverse direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

[0024] The separation wall may be arranged offset relative to the longitudinal central axis so that the total internal volume of the liquid supply channel exceeds the internal volume of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel when measured over the entire length of the liquid supply channel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0025] Alternatively, according to a second embodiment, the separation wall may be disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that, in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel disposed on one side of the separation wall exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel disposed on the opposite side of the separation wall. The enlarged cross-section of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel may reduce liquid condensation on the inner walls of the airflow channel. Leakage may be reduced or prevented. User comfort may be improved. The overall efficiency of the device may be improved.

[0026] The separation wall may be offset transversely from the longitudinal central axis so that in the transverse direction the width of the liquid supply channel is 60 to 80 percent, preferably 65 to 75 percent, of the width of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

[0027] The separation wall may be arranged offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that the total internal volume of the liquid supply channel is smaller than the internal volume of the distal portion of the inner airflow channel when measured over the entire length of the liquid supply channel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0028] The center of the separation wall may be offset from the longitudinal central axis by 5 percent to 15 percent of the outer diameter of the outer transverse wall. As used herein, "center of the separation wall" is defined as the middle of the separation wall in the transverse direction.

[0029] A region of the outer wall surrounding a distal portion of the liquid feed channel may comprise a sloped wall portion such that the distal portion of the liquid feed channel is narrower than a proximal portion of the liquid feed channel, and the distal portion of the separation wall may comprise a fluid-permeable wall portion to fluidly connect the narrower distal portion of the liquid feed channel with a distal portion of the inner airflow channel.

[0030] By using a cartridge with an inclined wall portion of the outer wall, liquid supply to the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall can be facilitated. The inclined wall portion can guide the liquid aerosol-forming substrate toward the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall, where the liquid can be evaporated by the heater assembly. The formation of liquid dead zones can be reduced. The supply of liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be optimized. A more efficient aerosol generation system can be provided.

[0031] A user may periodically hold the aerosol generating system with the cartridge in an upright position with the distal end facing the center of gravity. Thus, the sloped wall portion may facilitate complete depletion of the liquid aerosol-forming reservoir when the cartridge is nearly empty. A more efficient aerosol generating system may be provided.

[0032] A distal portion of the liquid feed channel being narrower than a proximal portion of the liquid feed channel may mean that the sloped wall portion is sloped relative to the central longitudinal axis such that the cross-section of the liquid feed channel tapers in a direction toward the distal end of the cartridge. A distal portion of the liquid feed channel being narrower than a proximal portion of the liquid feed channel may mean that the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid feed channel contracts in a direction toward the distal end of the cartridge.

[0033] The sloped wall portion may be located adjacent to the liquid feed channel such that the liquid feed channel is disposed along a transverse direction between the sloped wall portion and the separation wall. The sloped wall portion may be sloped relative to the central longitudinal axis such that a cross section of the liquid feed channel tapers in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0034] The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall may extend in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge to a distal end of the liquid feed channel. The sloped wall portion of the outer wall may extend to a distal end of the central longitudinal axis of the liquid feed channel of the cartridge.

[0035] The angled wall portion may be substantially planar.

[0036] The acute angle between the longitudinal central axis and the normal to the flat, inclined wall portion may be 45 degrees to 85 degrees, preferably 50 degrees to 80 degrees, more preferably 60 degrees to 80 degrees, more preferably 60 degrees to 75 degrees, more preferably 65 degrees to 72 degrees, more preferably 66 degrees to 70 degrees.

[0037] As used herein, the term "substantially planar" may refer to a three-dimensional object having two opposing planar major boundary surfaces that define the object's length and width. The object's thickness is substantially less than the object's length and width. For example, the object's thickness may be one-fifth or less of each of the object's length and width. A slight curvature of one or both of the generally planar major boundary surfaces may be acceptable. Also, small protrusions extending perpendicularly from the major boundary surfaces, such as side legs or curved end portions, may be acceptable as long as the overall extension of the length and width dimensions substantially exceeds the object's thickness.

[0038] In that context, the term "normal to a planar object" refers to a line or direction that is perpendicular to the planar major bounding surface of the object.

[0039] Both the sloped wall portion and the heater assembly may be substantially planar. The dihedral angle between the flat sloped wall portion and the flat heater assembly may be 5 degrees to 40 degrees, preferably 10 degrees to 35 degrees, more preferably 15 degrees to 30 degrees, more preferably 18 degrees to 26 degrees, more preferably 20 degrees to 24 degrees. The dihedral angle between the flat sloped wall portion and the flat heater assembly may be about 22 degrees.

[0040] The outer wall may be coaxially disposed about the central longitudinal axis.

[0041] The separation wall may extend substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0042] The susceptor elements may be substantially planar. The susceptor elements may be disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis. The susceptor elements may be disposed on a first side of the separation wall facing a distal portion of the inner airflow channel.

[0043] The separation wall may be substantially planar. The separation wall and the susceptor element may be substantially coplanar. The separation wall and the heater assembly may be substantially coplanar.

[0044] The angle between a line normal to the separation wall and the longitudinal central axis may be 75 to 105 degrees, preferably 80 to 100 degrees, and more preferably 85 to 95 degrees. The angle between a line normal to the separation wall and the longitudinal central axis may be approximately 90 degrees. The separation wall may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cartridge.

[0045] The distal portion of the cartridge may include a heater assembly for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor element may form part of the heater assembly. The liquid supply channel may be configured to supply liquid from the liquid reservoir to the heater assembly.

[0046] The separation wall may comprise a fluid-permeable portion for providing fluid communication between the liquid feed channel and a distal portion of the inner airflow channel. The separation wall may comprise a fluid-permeable portion and a fluid-non-permeable material. The separation wall may be configured to separate the liquid feed channel from the distal portion of the inner airflow channel except for the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The separation wall may be configured to allow fluid communication between the liquid feed channel and the distal portion of the inner airflow channel only through the fluid-permeable portion. The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall may comprise one or more openings or cutouts in the separation wall. The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall may comprise a fluid-permeable material, for example, a porous material. The fluid-permeable portion may comprise a wick element. The fluid-permeable portion may comprise a susceptor element. The fluid-permeable portion may comprise a heater assembly.

[0047] The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall may include a wick element disposed to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element. The liquid supply channel may be configured to supply liquid from the liquid storage portion to the wick element. The wick element may form part of a heater assembly. The wick element may be disposed on a second side of the separation wall facing the liquid supply channel.

[0048] The wick element may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material. The wick element may be substantially planar.

[0049] The wick element may form part of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The susceptor element may form part of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The heater assembly may form part of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall.

[0050] At least a portion of the susceptor element can be fluid permeable. The fluid permeability of the susceptor element can be provided by one or more openings or perforations in the susceptor element. For example, the susceptor element can be formed from a metal sheet provided with a plurality of openings.

[0051] The fluid permeability of the susceptor element may be provided by the inherent porosity of the material used for the susceptor element. The susceptor element may include or consist of a porous material. For example, the porous material may be a porous ceramic or a porous carbon-based material. The porous material may be a metal foam.

[0052] The susceptor element may include one or both of a metal and an alloy. The susceptor element may include a ferromagnetic alloy material. The ferromagnetic alloy material may be perforated to provide a desired porosity. The alloy material may be a ferromagnetic Inox alloy.

[0053] The susceptor element may include one or more of a ferromagnetic stainless steel alloy, a magnetic carbon-based material, and a carbon-based compound with a metallic structural dispersion.

[0054] The ferromagnetic stainless steel alloy may include one or more of 304 stainless steel and 410 stainless steel. The magnetic carbon-based material may include one or more of irradiated graphite, nanocarbon, fullerene, oxygen-containing carbon, and graphene with point defects. The carbon-based compound with a metallic structure dispersion may include an Fe3O4 characteristic carbon black (mGCB) composite.

[0055] The wick element may be provided adjacent to at least a portion of the susceptor element. At least a portion of the wick element may be fluid permeable. The wick element may have a substantially planar shape. The wick element may contact at least a portion of the susceptor element. A major surface of the wick element may contact a major surface of the susceptor element.

[0056] The wick element may include a ceramic material. The ceramic material may be porous. The ceramic material may be a porous silica ceramic. The wick element may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, a porous graphite-based material, and a glass fiber sheet material.

[0057] The wick element may comprise a porous material, and the susceptor element may comprise a porous material. The porosity of the susceptor element may be at least in the same range as the porosity of the wick element. The porosity of the porous material of the susceptor element may be higher than the porosity of the porous material of the wick element.

[0058] The term "porosity" as used herein is defined as the percentage of a unit volume that is completely free of material. Porosity can be derived using standard methods and equations, which provide a decimal value for porosity. If the pore volume (Vp) of a defined volume of material and its total volume (Vt) are known, the porosity (Pt) is given by the ratio Vp / Vt. To express porosity as a percentage, simply multiply the decimal by 100%. For example, Pt = 0.51, so 0.51 x 100% = 51%.

[0059] Better aerosolization results can be achieved when the porosity of the porous material constituting the susceptor element is higher than the porosity of the porous material constituting the wick element. The porosity of the susceptor element may be about 25-80%, preferably about 55-75%, and most preferably about 65-75%. The porosity of the wick element may be 10-60%, preferably 35-55%, and more preferably 40-50%, and may be less than the porosity of the susceptor element.

[0060] The distal portion of the cartridge may include a heater assembly. The heater assembly may include a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor element may be disposed on a first side of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The first side may face the distal portion of the inner airflow channel.

[0061] The heater assembly may include a wick element for transferring the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element. The wick element may be disposed on a second side of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The second side may face the liquid supply channel. The liquid supply channel may be configured to supply liquid from the liquid storage portion to the wick element.

[0062] The heater assembly may be held in place by the separation wall. The heater assembly may be attached to the separation wall. The heater assembly may be attached to a fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall. The fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall may include a connector element for attachment to the heater assembly. The connector element may include a connector strip attached to both a surface of the heater assembly and a surface of the separation wall.

[0063] The liquid reservoir may surround a proximal portion of the inner airflow channel. The liquid reservoir may comprise a tubular portion. The liquid reservoir may be tubular. The liquid reservoir may coaxially surround a proximal portion of the inner airflow channel.

[0064] The distal portion of the cartridge may have a circular cross-section perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis. The proximal portion of the cartridge may have an oval cross-section perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis. The oval cross-section may taper toward the proximal end in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0065] The proximal portion of the cartridge may be configured as a mouthpiece.

[0066] The distal portion of the cartridge may be configured to engage with an aerosol generation device. The distal portion of the cartridge may be configured to be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol generation device.

[0067] The distal end of the cartridge may comprise a connecting means, which may be configured to be releasably connectable to an aerosol generating device.

[0068] The outer diameter of the outer wall in the transverse direction may be 10 millimeters or less, preferably 9.5 millimeters or less, more preferably 9 millimeters or less, more preferably 8.5 millimeters or less, more preferably 8 millimeters or less, more preferably 7.5 millimeters or less, more preferably 7.0 millimeters or less.

[0069] As used herein, the term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0070] The wall thickness of the outer wall may be 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0071] The liquid supply channel may comprise an absorbent material, preferably a cotton-based absorbent material.

[0072] The cartridge may be configured so that the susceptor element is inductively heatable by an inductor coil of an aerosol-generating device to a temperature sufficient to heat the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to generate the aerosol.

[0073] The outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge may be substantially tubular.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation system comprising a cartridge as described herein and an aerosol generator. The aerosol generator may comprise a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge and an inductor coil at least partially surrounding the cavity. The cavity of the aerosol generator may be a heating chamber.

[0075] The aerosol generating device may comprise a wall surrounding the cavity. The wall may comprise a recess on an outer surface thereof. The inductor coil may be at least partially received within the recess.

[0076] As used herein, the term "internal airflow channel extending between the proximal and distal ends of the cartridge" means that the internal airflow channel extends substantially between the proximal and distal ends of the cartridge. For example, the internal airflow channel may extend between the proximal and distal end regions of the cartridge.

[0077] As used herein, the term "inner airflow channel extending along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge" refers to the general direction of the inner airflow channel along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The inner airflow channel need not extend exactly at the central longitudinal axis. The inner airflow channel, or parts thereof, may be disposed offset relative to the central longitudinal axis. Also, the inner airflow channel need not extend along a straight line along the central longitudinal axis. For example, rotation of the inner airflow channel is possible.

[0078] As used herein, the terms "tubular," "tubular unit," "tubular component," "tubular element," and "tubular shape" refer to a three-dimensional object and geometric shape that includes a bottom basal plane, a top basal plane, and a sidewall that encloses a hollow interior, the sidewall being disposed between the bottom and top basal planes. The sidewall extends along a longitudinal axis of the tubular element between the bottom and top basal planes. The longitudinal axis may be perpendicular to one or both of the bottom and top basal planes.

[0079] The bottom base of the tubular element lies in a bottom base plane. The top base of the tubular element lies in a top base plane. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and top base may be circular. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and top base may be non-circular, for example, elliptical, stadium-shaped, or rectangular. One or both of the bottom base and top base may be at least partially open to provide an interior hollow passageway of the tubular element.

[0080] The tubular element may have the shape of a right circular hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a non-circular hollow cylinder, for example an elliptical hollow cylinder or a stadium-shaped hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a hollow rectangular parallelepiped.

[0081] The longitudinal axis of the tubular element may be disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The central longitudinal axis of the tubular element may be coincident with the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0082] The term "aerosol-forming substrate" as used herein relates to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound that can form an aerosol or vapor. Such a volatile compound can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in liquid form. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used interchangeably.

[0083] The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of the cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of the liquid held in a liquid reservoir of the cartridge. The liquid reservoir may contain the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0084] Preferably, a liquid nicotine or flavor / flavorant-containing aerosol-forming substrate may be employed within the liquid reservoir portion of the cartridge.

[0085] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine.

[0086] The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of a dense, stable aerosol during use and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the device. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate). Preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof (such as triethylene glycol and 1,3-butanediol). Preferably, the aerosol former is glycerin.

[0087] As used herein, the term "cartridge" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. For example, a cartridge may be an article that generates an aerosol that is directly inhalable by a user who inhales or puffs at a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the device or at the mouthpiece of the cartridge itself. A cartridge may be disposable. A cartridge may be reusable. A cartridge may be refillable. A cartridge may be insertable into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device.

[0088] As used herein, the term "liquid reservoir" refers to a reservoir containing an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The liquid reservoir may be configured as a container or reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0089] The liquid reservoir may be configured as a replaceable tank or container. The liquid reservoir may be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the liquid reservoir may be substantially cylindrical. The cross section of the liquid reservoir may be, for example, substantially circular, oval, square, or rectangular. The liquid reservoir may form part of a cartridge.

[0090] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with one or both of an aerosol-generating article and a cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0091] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generating device and one or both of a cartridge and an aerosol-generating article, in which the aerosol generating device and one or both of the aerosol-generating article and cartridge cooperate to generate a respirable aerosol.

[0092] The aerosol generating device is preferably portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The device may be an electrically operated smoking device. The device may be a handheld aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may have a total length of 30 mm to 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of 5 mm to 30 mm.

[0093] The aerosol generating device may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and not brittle.

[0094] The housing may include at least one air inlet. The housing may include two or more air inlets.

[0095] The aerosol generating device may comprise a heating element, which may comprise at least one inductor coil for inductively heating one or more susceptors.

[0096] The operation of the heating element may be triggered by a puff detection system. Alternatively, the heating element may be triggered by pressing an on / off button and maintained for the duration of the user's puff. The puff detection system may be provided as a sensor, which may be configured as an airflow sensor to measure airflow velocity. Airflow velocity is a parameter that characterizes the amount of air per time drawn by the user through the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. The start of a puff may be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. The start may also be detected when the user activates a button. The sensor may also be configured as a pressure sensor.

[0097] The aerosol generating device may include a user interface for operating the aerosol generating device, for example, a button to initiate heating of the aerosol generating device, or a display to indicate the status of the aerosol generating device or the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0098] The aerosol generating device may include additional components, such as, for example, a charging unit for recharging an on-board power supply within an electrically operated or electric aerosol generating device.

[0099] As used herein, the term "proximal" refers to the user or mouth end of a cartridge, aerosol generating device, or system, or part or portion thereof, and the term "distal" refers to the end opposite the proximal end. When referring to a cavity or heating chamber, the term "proximal" refers to the area nearest the open end of the cavity, and the term "distal" refers to the area nearest the closed end.

[0100] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to indicate the relative position of a component or portion of a component of a cartridge or aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol generating device during use of the aerosol generating device.

[0101] As used herein, the term "airflow path" means a channel suitable for transporting a gaseous medium. The airflow path may be used to transport ambient air. The airflow path may be used to transport an aerosol. The airflow path may be used to transport a mixture of air and an aerosol.

[0102] As used herein, "susceptor" or "susceptor element" means an element that heats when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This can be the result of eddy currents induced in the susceptor element, hysteresis losses, or both eddy currents and hysteresis losses. During use, the susceptor element is positioned in thermal contact or thermal proximity with an aerosol-forming substrate received within an aerosol-generating device or cartridge. In this manner, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated by the susceptor, resulting in the formation of an aerosol.

[0103] The susceptor material may be any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The following examples and features regarding susceptors may apply to one or both of the susceptor element of the cartridge, the susceptor of the aerosol-generating device, and the susceptor of the aerosol-generating article. Suitable materials for the susceptor material include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and composites of metallic materials. Preferred susceptor materials include metal or carbon. Advantageously, the susceptor material may include or consist of ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials, such as, for example, ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel, ferromagnetic particles, and ferrite. A suitable susceptor material may be or include aluminum. The susceptor material may contain more than 5 percent, preferably more than 20 percent, more preferably more than 50 percent or more than 90 percent ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic, or paramagnetic material. Preferred susceptor materials may be heated to temperatures above 250 degrees Celsius without degradation.

[0104] The susceptor material may be formed from a single layer of material, which may be a steel layer.

[0105] The susceptor material may comprise a non-metallic core having a metallic layer disposed thereon. The non-metallic core may be fluid permeable. The non-metallic core may be porous. For example, the susceptor material may comprise a metallic track formed on the outer surface of a ceramic core or substrate. The ceramic core or substrate may be fluid permeable. The ceramic core or substrate may be porous.

[0106] The susceptor material may be formed from a layer of austenitic steel. One or more layers of stainless steel may be disposed on the layer of austenitic steel. For example, the susceptor material may be formed from a layer of austenitic steel with a layer of stainless steel on each of its upper and lower surfaces. The susceptor element may include a single susceptor material. The susceptor element may include a first susceptor material and a second susceptor material. The first susceptor material may be disposed in intimate physical contact with the second susceptor material. The first susceptor material and the second susceptor material may be in intimate contact to form a unitary susceptor. In certain embodiments, the first susceptor material is stainless steel and the second susceptor material is nickel. The susceptor element may have a two-layer structure. The susceptor element may be formed from a stainless steel layer and a nickel layer.

[0107] The intimate contact between the first susceptor material and the second susceptor material may be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second susceptor material may be plated, vapor-deposited, coated, clad, or welded onto the first susceptor material. Preferred methods include electroplating, galvanizing, and cladding.

[0108] The aerosol generating device may include a power source for powering the heating element. The power source may include a battery. The power source may be a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, a lithium-titanate battery, or a lithium-polymer battery). The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for storage of sufficient energy for one or more use experiences; for example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosol for approximately six minutes, or a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous operation of the heating element.

[0109] The power source may be a direct current (DC) power source. In one embodiment, the power source is a DC power source having a DC supply voltage in the range of 2.5 volts to 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of 1 ampere to 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power source in the range of 2.5 watts to 45 watts). Advantageously, the aerosol generating device may comprise a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting the DC current provided by the DC power source to alternating current. The DC / AC converter may comprise a class D, class C, or class E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is supplied to the inductor coil.

[0110] The power supply may be adapted to supply power to the inductor coil and may be configured to operate at high frequencies. A Class E power amplifier is preferred for high frequency operation. As used herein, the term "high frequency oscillating current" refers to an oscillating current having a frequency between 500 kilohertz and 30 megahertz. The high frequency oscillating current may have a frequency between 1 megahertz and 30 megahertz, preferably between 1 megahertz and 10 megahertz, and more preferably between 5 megahertz and 8 megahertz.

[0111] In alternative embodiments, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in the lower kHz range, for example, 100 kHz to 400 kHz. In embodiments where a class D or class C power amplifier is used, a switching frequency in the lower kHz range is particularly advantageous.

[0112] The aerosol generating device may include a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to the inductor coil. The controller may be electrically connected to the first inductor coil and to the second inductor coil. The controller may be configured to control the current supplied to the inductor coil and therefore the magnetic field strength generated by the inductor coil.

[0113] A power source and a controller may be connected to the inductor coil.

[0114] The controller may be configured to chop the current supply on the input side of the DC / AC converter, so that the power supplied to the inductor coil may be controlled by conventional methods of duty cycle management. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0115] [Figure 1] 1a-1c show a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] 2a and 2b show an aerosol generation system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows an aerosol generation system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows the distal part of the cartridge according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows the distal part of a cartridge according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0116] Below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0117] Example 1: 1. A cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device, comprising: an inner airflow channel extending along a central longitudinal axis of the cartridge between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge; a proximal portion of the cartridge comprising a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; a distal portion of the cartridge comprising an outer wall, a liquid supply channel, and an inner separation wall, the liquid supply channel in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion, the separation wall disposed between the liquid supply channel and a distal portion of the inner airflow channel, the distal portion of the cartridge being surrounded by the outer wall; A cartridge, wherein the separation wall comprises a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the susceptor element being disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis.

[0118] Example 2: A cartridge as described in Example 1, wherein the susceptor element is arranged offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel arranged on one side of the susceptor element exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel arranged on the opposite side of the susceptor element.

[0119] Example 3: 3. The cartridge of Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the separation wall is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis such that, in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, a cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid feed channel disposed on one side of the separation wall exceeds a cross-sectional area of ​​a distal portion of the inner airflow channel disposed on the opposite side of the separation wall; or A cartridge as described in Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the separation wall is arranged offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that, in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner airflow channel arranged on one side of the separation wall exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the liquid supply channel arranged on the opposite side of the separation wall.

[0120] Example 4: The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the susceptor elements are substantially planar and disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0121] Example 5: The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the outer wall is disposed coaxially around the longitudinal central axis.

[0122] Example 6: 6. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the susceptor element is offset from the longitudinal central axis by 10 to 20 percent of the outer diameter of the outer wall in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

[0123] Example 7: A cartridge described in any of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the liquid storage portion surrounds a proximal portion of the inner airflow channel, preferably the liquid storage portion comprises a tubular portion, more preferably the liquid storage portion is tubular.

[0124] Example 8: The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the proximal portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece.

[0125] Example 9: The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the separation wall is substantially planar.

[0126] Example 10: The cartridge according to Example 9, wherein the angle between the normal to the separation wall and the central axis in the longitudinal direction is 75 to 105 degrees, preferably 80 to 100 degrees, and more preferably 85 to 95 degrees.

[0127] Example 11: 11. The cartridge of example 10, wherein the separation wall extends substantially parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0128] Example 12: 12. The cartridge of example 11, wherein the separation wall is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis.

[0129] Example 13: 13. The cartridge of claim 12, wherein the separation wall is offset from the longitudinal central axis by 5 percent to 15 percent of the outer diameter of the outer wall in the transverse direction, and the transverse direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

[0130] Example 14: 14. The cartridge of claim 13, wherein the center of the separation wall is offset from the longitudinal central axis by 5 percent to 15 percent of the outer diameter of the outer wall in the transverse direction, and the center of the separation wall is defined as the middle of the separation wall in the transverse direction.

[0131] Example 15: 15. The cartridge of any of Examples 12-14, wherein the separation wall is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that the total internal volume of the liquid feed channel exceeds the internal volume of the distal portion of the airflow inner channel, when measured over the entire length of the liquid feed channel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis; or A cartridge described in any of Examples 12 to 14, wherein the separation wall is arranged offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, such that the total internal volume of the liquid supply channel is smaller than the internal volume of the distal portion of the airflow inner channel when measured over the entire length of the liquid supply channel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0132] Example 16: 16. The cartridge of any of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the separation wall comprises a fluid-permeable portion for providing a fluid connection between the liquid supply channel and a distal portion of the inner airflow channel.

[0133] Example 17: 17. The cartridge of Example 16, wherein the distal portion of the cartridge comprises a heater assembly for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the susceptor element forms part of the heater assembly, and the liquid supply channel is configured to supply liquid from the liquid storage portion to the heater assembly.

[0134] Example 18: 18. The cartridge of example 17, wherein the susceptor element is disposed on a first side of the separation wall facing a distal portion of the inner airflow channel.

[0135] Example 19: 19. The cartridge of example 18, wherein the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall comprises a wick element arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element, the liquid supply channel being configured to supply liquid from the liquid storage portion to the wick element.

[0136] Example 20: 20. The cartridge of example 19, wherein the wick element is disposed on a second side of the separation wall facing the liquid feed channel.

[0137] Example 21: The cartridge of example 19 or example 20, wherein the wick element comprises one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material.

[0138] Example 22: 22. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the distal portion of the cartridge has a circular cross-section and the proximal portion of the cartridge has an oval cross-section, preferably the oval cross-section tapering towards the proximal end.

[0139] Example 23: A cartridge described in any of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the distal portion of the cartridge is configured to engage with an aerosol generating device, preferably the distal portion of the cartridge is configured to be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0140] Example 24: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the distal end of the cartridge comprises a connecting means configured to be releasably connectable to an aerosol generating device.

[0141] Example 25: A cartridge described in any of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the outer diameter of the outer wall in the transverse direction does not exceed 10 millimeters, preferably does not exceed 9.5 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 9 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 8.5 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 8 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 7.5 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 7.0 millimeters, and the transverse direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

[0142] Example 26: The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 25, wherein the outer wall has a thickness of 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0143] Example 27: The cartridge of any of Examples 1 to 26, wherein the liquid supply channel comprises an absorbent material, preferably a cotton-based absorbent material.

[0144] Example 28: 28. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 27, wherein the cartridge is configured such that the susceptor element is inductively heatable by an inductor coil of an aerosol generating device to a temperature sufficient to heat the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to generate the aerosol.

[0145] Example 29: The cartridge of any of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge is substantially tubular.

[0146] Example 30: 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 29, An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generator comprising a cavity disposed to receive at least a distal portion of a cartridge; and an inductor coil at least partially surrounding the cavity.

[0147] Example 31: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 30, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a wall surrounding a cavity, the wall having a recess on its outer surface, and the inductor coil is at least partially received within the recess.

[0148] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0149] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0150] 1a shows in cross section a cartridge 10 for use in an aerosol generating device. The cartridge 10 includes an internal airflow channel extending along a longitudinal central axis 20 of the cartridge 10 between an air outlet 12 at a proximal end 14 and an air inlet 16 at a distal end 18 of the cartridge 10.

[0151] The proximal portion 10a of the cartridge 10 comprises a liquid storage portion 22 for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0152] 1a-1c, the liquid reservoir 22 is tubular and surrounds a proximal portion of the inner airflow channel 24. However, this shape and location of the liquid reservoir 22 is not required.

[0153] The distal portion 10b of the cartridge 10 comprises an outer wall 26, a liquid supply channel 28, and an interior separation wall 30. The liquid supply channel 28 is in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir portion 22. The distal portion 10b of the cartridge 10 is surrounded by the outer wall 26. In the embodiment of Figures 1a-1c, the outer wall 26 of the distal portion of the cartridge 10 is tubular, although this is not required.

[0154] A separation wall 30 is disposed between the liquid feed channel 28 and a distal portion of the inner airflow channel 32. The separation wall 30 includes a susceptor element 38. The susceptor element 38 is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis 20.

[0155] 1a-1c, the region of outer wall 26 surrounding the distal portion of liquid feed channel 28 includes a sloped wall portion 34 such that the distal portion of liquid feed channel 28 is narrower than the proximal portion of liquid feed channel 28. Sloped wall portion 34 is substantially planar. However, the presence of sloped wall portion 34 is not required.

[0156] The distal portion of the separation wall 30 may comprise a fluid-permeable portion 36 to fluidly connect the narrower distal portion of the liquid feed channel 28 with the distal portion of the inner airflow channel 32 via a susceptor element 38, as shown in the embodiment of Figures 1a-1c. Both the fluid-permeable wall portion 36 and the angled wall portion 34 may extend to the distal end of the liquid feed channel 28 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis 20, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 1a.

[0157] Figure 1b shows a cross-section of Figure 1a along line BB at a longitudinal location where fluid-permeable wall portion 36 is already present but is proximal to the start of sloped wall portion 34, resulting in a circular cross-section. One or both of susceptor element 38 and optional wick element 40 may be disposed within fluid-permeable wall portion 36. Susceptor element 38 and wick element 40 may form part of a heater assembly.

[0158] Figure 1c shows a cross-section of Figure 1a along line CC at a longitudinal location proximal to fluid-permeable wall portion 36 and proximal to the beginning of angled wall portion 34, resulting in a circular cross-section. Except at the longitudinal location where fluid-permeable wall portion 36 is provided, no fluid can pass through separation wall 30 between liquid supply channel 28 and the distal portion of inner airflow channel 32.

[0159] FIG. 2a shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system comprises a cartridge 10 and an aerosol generation device 100. Only portions of the cartridge 10 and device 100 are shown in FIG. 2a. The cartridge of FIG. 2a may be identical to the cartridge of FIGS. 1a-1c. The aerosol generation device 100 comprises a cavity 110 for receiving the distal portion 10b of the cartridge 10. A wall 112 of the cavity 110 comprises an inductor coil 116. The inductor coil 116 surrounds the cavity 110.

[0160] FIG. 2b shows a cross section of FIG. 2a along line HH.

[0161] 2a and 2b, distances are indicated by double-headed arrows. Distance d1 indicates the distance that susceptor element 38 is offset relative to longitudinal central axis 20 along a transverse direction perpendicular to longitudinal central axis 20. Distance d2 indicates the transverse distance between susceptor element 38 and the top of inductor coil 116. Distance d3 indicates the transverse distance between susceptor element 38 and the bottom of inductor coil 116. Distance d4 indicates the transverse distance between longitudinal central axis 20 and inductor coil 116.

[0162] Due to the offset of the susceptor element 38, the distance d2 is shorter than the distances d3 and d4. Therefore, due to the offset of the susceptor element 38 of the cartridge 10, the distance between the susceptor element 38 and the inductor coil 116 when the cartridge 10 is inserted into the cavity 110 of the aerosol generating device 100 (see distance d2) can be reduced (see distance d4) compared to a cartridge without such an offset of the susceptor element. Because the distance between the susceptor element 38 and the inductor coil 116 is reduced, a cartridge 10 is provided that can be heated more efficiently.

[0163] FIG. 3 shows an aerosol generation system in cross section. The aerosol generation system comprises a cartridge 10 and an aerosol generation device 100. Only a portion of the device 100 is shown in FIG. 3. The aerosol generation device 100 comprises a cavity 110 for receiving at least a distal portion of the cartridge 10. A wall 112 of the cavity 110 comprises a recessed portion 114. The aerosol generation device 100 comprises an inductor coil 116. The inductor coil 116 is provided in the recessed portion 114 and surrounds the cavity 110. The recessed portion 114 allows the inductor coil 116 to be advantageously positioned closer to the susceptor element 38 of the cartridge 10.

[0164] During use, an alternating current applied to the inductor coil 116 induces a current in the susceptor element 38 of the cartridge 10. As a result, the susceptor element 38 heats up. The heat is distributed to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate within the susceptor element 38 or in close proximity to the susceptor element 38. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate then evaporates. As shown by the dotted arrow in FIG. 3 , ambient air can enter the device 100 through the device's air inlet 118. The air can then travel through the cavity 110 and enter the distal portion of the inner airflow channel 32 through the air inlet 16 of the cartridge 10. The air can then absorb the evaporated substrate, which can further condense and form an aerosol en route to the proximal portion of the inner airflow channel 24 and the air outlet 12 of the cartridge 10. At the air outlet 12, the aerosol can be inhaled by a user.

[0165] FIG. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the distal portion 10b of a first embodiment of the cartridge 10. The outer wall 26 shown in FIG. 4 does not include a sloped wall portion. However, the outer wall 26 may include the sloped wall portion shown in FIGS. 1-3 if desired. The distal portion 10b of the cartridge 10 includes the outer wall 26, a liquid feed channel 28, and an internal separation wall 30. The separation wall 30 is disposed between the liquid feed channel 28 and a distal portion of the inner airflow channel 32. The distal portion 10b of the cartridge 10 is surrounded by the outer wall 26. The separation wall 30 includes a susceptor element 38 for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The separation wall 30 and the susceptor element 38 are disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis 20. The separation wall 30 and the susceptor element 38 are arranged offset relative to the longitudinal central axis 20, so that in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis 20, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel 28 arranged on one side of the separation wall 30 exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel 32 arranged on the opposite side of the separation wall 30.

[0166] FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a distal portion 10b' of an alternative second embodiment of cartridge 10. The cartridge of FIG. 5 is generally similar to the cartridge of FIG. 4 and can be used in the aerosol generating device 100, as shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 5, the distal portion 10b' of the cartridge includes an outer wall 26, a liquid feed channel 28', and an inner separation wall 30. The separation wall 30 is substantially planar and disposed between the liquid feed channel 28' and the distal portion of the inner airflow channel 32'. The distal portion of cartridge 10 is surrounded by the outer wall 26. The separation wall 30 includes a susceptor element 38 for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The separation wall 30 and the susceptor element 38 are disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis 20. The air inlet 16 is also shown. The cartridge 10 has a proximal portion 10a suitably constructed along the proximal portion 10a of the cartridge 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3.

[0167] 5 differs from the cartridge of FIG. 4 in that, as shown in FIG. 5, the separation wall 30 and susceptor element 38 are disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis 20, such that, in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis 20, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel 28′ disposed on one side of the separation wall 30 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel 32′ disposed on the opposite side of the separation wall 30. Thus, a relatively large cross-sectional area of ​​the inner airflow channel 32′ is provided. The relatively large cross-sectional area of ​​the inner airflow channel 32′ may reduce condensation of liquid on the inner walls of the airflow channel 32′.

Claims

1. 1. A cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device, comprising: an inner airflow channel extending along a central longitudinal axis of the cartridge between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge; a proximal portion of the cartridge comprising a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; a distal portion of the cartridge comprising an outer wall, a liquid supply channel, and an inner separation wall, the liquid supply channel in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion, the separation wall disposed between the liquid supply channel and a distal portion of the inner airflow channel, the distal portion of the cartridge being surrounded by the outer wall; the separation wall includes a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the susceptor element being disposed offset with respect to the longitudinal central axis; The cartridge, wherein the separation wall is substantially planar.

2. 2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the susceptor element is positioned offset relative to the longitudinal central axis so that, in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel disposed on one side of the susceptor element exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel disposed on the opposite side of the susceptor element.

3. 2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the susceptor element is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis so that, in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, the cross-sectional area of ​​the distal portion of the inner airflow channel disposed on one side of the susceptor element exceeds the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid supply channel disposed on the opposite side of the susceptor element.

4. The cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the susceptor element is substantially planar and disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

5. the outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge is substantially tubular; and The cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge is disposed coaxially about the central longitudinal axis.

6. 6. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the susceptor element is offset from the longitudinal central axis by 10 to 20 percent of an outer diameter of the outer wall in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis.

7. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the separation wall extends substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

8. The separation wall is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis, and preferably:

8. The cartridge of claim 7, wherein the separation wall is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis so that the total internal volume of the liquid supply channel, when measured along the entire length of the liquid supply channel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis, exceeds the internal volume of the distal portion of the airflow inner channel.

9. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the separation wall comprises a fluid-permeable portion for providing a fluid connection between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the inner airflow channel.

10. 10. The cartridge of claim 9, wherein the distal portion of the cartridge comprises a heater assembly for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the susceptor element forms part of the heater assembly, the liquid supply channel is configured to supply liquid from the liquid storage portion to the heater assembly, and the susceptor element is disposed on a first side of the separation wall facing the distal portion of the inner airflow channel.

11. 11. The cartridge of claim 10, wherein the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall comprises a wick element arranged to transfer liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element, the liquid supply channel being configured to supply liquid from the liquid storage portion to the wick element, and the wick element being arranged on a second side of the separation wall facing the liquid supply channel.

12. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the distal portion of the cartridge has a circular cross-section and the proximal portion of the cartridge has an oval cross-section, preferably the oval cross-section tapering towards the proximal end.

13. 13. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the outer diameter of the outer wall in a transverse direction does not exceed 10 millimeters, preferably does not exceed 9.5 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 9 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 8.5 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 8 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 7.5 millimeters, more preferably does not exceed 7.0 millimeters, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

14. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the liquid supply channel comprises an absorbent material, preferably a cotton-based absorbent material.

15. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 14; an aerosol generating device comprising a cavity disposed to receive at least the distal portion of the cartridge, and an inductor coil at least partially surrounding the cavity.

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