Cartridge with separation wall

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, the cartridge comprising an inductor coil. The cartridge includes a proximal portion of the cartridge comprising an internal airflow channel extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and a distal portion. The distal portion includes 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 separation wall is disposed between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel. The separation wall includes a fluid-permeable portion. The distal portion of the cartridge is surrounded by the outer wall. The distal portion of the cartridge further includes a heater assembly. The heater assembly includes a susceptor element. The susceptor element is disposed on a first surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall, the first surface facing the distal portion of the internal airflow channel. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generation system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising a 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 may heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained in a cartridge without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may include a heating arrangement. The heating arrangement may be an induction heating arrangement 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 heat up to a target temperature quickly.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide a cartridge that more efficiently delivers liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid reservoir toward a heating element.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 in which the space requirements of the internal airflow channel and the internal liquid supply channel are reduced. It would be desirable to provide a miniaturized cartridge. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge with a reduced outer diameter. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge in which the outer diameter of a distal portion of the cartridge is reduced so that the outer diameter is similar to the outer diameter of a heated, non-combustion aerosol-generating article. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge that can be used in a universal aerosol generating device that is capable of heating both cartridges with liquid aerosol-forming substrates and heated, non-combustion aerosol-generating articles with solid aerosol-forming substrates.

[0007] It would be desirable to provide aerosol generating cartridges 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 with an aerosol generating device. The cartridge may include an internal 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 reservoir portion for holding 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 reservoir portion. The separation wall may be disposed between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel. The separation wall may include a fluid-permeable portion for providing fluid connection between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel. The distal portion of the cartridge may be surrounded by an outer wall. 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 can be disposed on a first surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall, the first surface facing a distal portion of the internal airflow channel.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The cartridge includes an internal airflow channel extending along a longitudinal central axis of the cartridge between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge includes a proximal portion of the cartridge including a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge includes a distal portion of the cartridge. The distal portion of the cartridge includes an outer wall. The distal portion of the cartridge includes a liquid supply channel. The distal portion of the cartridge includes 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 internal airflow channel. The separation wall includes a fluid-permeable portion for providing fluid connection between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel. The distal portion of the cartridge is surrounded by the outer wall. The distal portion of the cartridge includes a heater assembly. The heater assembly includes a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor element is disposed on a first surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The first surface faces a distal portion of the internal airflow channel.

[0010] An aerosol generating system with improved energy efficiency may be provided. An aerosol generating system that enables 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 may be provided. A cartridge that improves aerosolization of an aerosol-forming substrate may be provided. A cartridge that reduces the space requirements of the internal airflow channel and the internal liquid supply channel may be provided. A cartridge that is reduced in size may be provided. A cartridge that is reduced in outer diameter may be provided. A cartridge that has a reduced outer diameter at a distal portion of the cartridge may be provided, such that the outer diameter of the cartridge is similar to the outer diameter of the heated, non-combustion aerosol-generating article. A cartridge that can be used with a universal aerosol generating device that can heat both cartridges with liquid aerosol-forming substrates and heated, non-combustion aerosol-generating articles with solid aerosol-forming substrates may be provided. A cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can heat more efficiently may be provided.

[0011] In this manner, a cartridge including a distal portion having an outer wall and a separation wall can provide a cartridge including a liquid supply channel and a distal portion of an internal airflow channel in a simpler configuration. No additional tubes or wall elements are required to achieve independent channels. Manufacturing costs can be reduced. A cartridge with reduced space requirements for the distal portion can be provided. A separation wall including a fluid-permeable portion and a susceptor element can further reduce complexity and space requirements.

[0012] To reduce 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 that includes an aerosol generating device that includes a cavity that can receive both the aerosol-generating article or the cartridge.

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

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

[0015] 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 surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The second surface 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] The susceptor element may be substantially planar.

[0019] The susceptor element may include a planar central portion and two curved end portions. The wick element may be positioned between the two curved end portions. The wick element may be planar.

[0020] The susceptor element may include a main planar base portion and two side legs extending perpendicular to the planar base portion at opposite ends of the planar base portion, and at least a portion of the wick element may rest against the planar base portion of the susceptor element and be received between the two side legs.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The susceptor element may have a U-shaped cross section. The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall and the susceptor element may have corresponding U-shapes such that the susceptor element fits within the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall.

[0023] The susceptor element and the wick element may have a U-shaped cross section. The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall and the susceptor element and the wick element may have a corresponding U-shape such that the susceptor element and the wick element fit into the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall.

[0024] The fluid-impermeable bridge portion of the separation wall may be disposed between the two arms of the U-shape of one or both of the susceptor element and the wick element.

[0025] The susceptor elements may be substantially planar and may be disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0026] The angle between the normal to the planar susceptor element 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.

[0027] A region of the outer wall surrounding a distal portion of the liquid feed channel may include 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 include a fluid-permeable wall portion for fluidly connecting the narrower distal portion of the liquid feed channel with a distal portion of the internal airflow channel.

[0028] A cartridge including an inclined wall portion of the outer wall can facilitate liquid supply to the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. 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 dead zones in the liquid can be reduced. The supply of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be optimized. A more efficient aerosol generation system can be provided.

[0029] A user can always hold the aerosol generating system including the cartridge in an upright position with the distal end facing the center of gravity. Thus, the sloped wall portion can facilitate complete depletion of the liquid aerosol-forming reservoir when the cartridge is nearly empty. A more efficient aerosol generating system can be provided.

[0030] The distal portion of the liquid feed channel being narrower than the 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. The distal portion of the liquid feed channel being narrower than the proximal portion of the liquid feed channel may mean that the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid feed channel decreases in a direction toward the distal end of the cartridge.

[0031] The sloped wall portion may be positioned 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.

[0032] 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 angled 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.

[0033] The angled wall portion may be substantially planar.

[0034] The acute angle between the longitudinal central axis and the normal to the planar 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, and more preferably 66 degrees to 70 degrees.

[0035] As used herein, the term "substantially planar" may refer to a three-dimensional object having two opposing planar major 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. One or both of the generally planar major boundary surfaces may be slightly curved. Also, small protrusions extending perpendicular to 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.

[0036] In that context, the term "normal to a planar object" refers to a line or direction perpendicular to the planar major boundary surface of the object.

[0037] Both the inclined wall portion and the heater assembly may be substantially planar. The dihedral angle between the planar inclined wall portion and the planar heater assembly may be 5 to 40 degrees, preferably 10 to 35 degrees, more preferably 15 to 30 degrees, more preferably 18 to 26 degrees, more preferably 20 to 24 degrees. The dihedral angle between the planar inclined wall portion and the planar heater assembly may be approximately 22 degrees.

[0038] 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.

[0039] The outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge may be substantially tubular. The outer wall may be coaxially disposed about the central longitudinal axis.

[0040] The outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge may include a retention section for retaining one or both of the heater assembly and the separation wall.

[0041] The retention section may include two slits disposed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the outer wall.The retention section may be provided by two slits disposed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the outer wall.

[0042] The distal portion of the cartridge may include at least one meniscus-forming element that may protrude from the outer wall into the distal portion of the internal airflow channel toward the surface of the susceptor element. The at least one meniscus-forming element may contact the surface of the susceptor element or may be spaced apart from the surface of the susceptor element such that, during use, a meniscus of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is formed between the surface of the susceptor element and the at least one meniscus-forming element.

[0043] The at least one meniscus forming element may include one or both of a first meniscus forming element and a pair of peripheral meniscus forming elements. The at least one meniscus forming element may be integrally molded with the outer wall. The at least one meniscus forming element may include a tip where the meniscus forming element is closest to the susceptor element.

[0044] At least a fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall can be substantially planar, the heater assembly can be substantially planar, and the fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall can be substantially flush with the heater assembly. The separation wall can be substantially planar, the heater assembly can be substantially planar, and the separation wall can be substantially flush with the heater assembly.

[0045] The angle between the normal to the fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall and the longitudinal central axis can be between 75 degrees and 105 degrees, preferably between 80 degrees and 100 degrees, more preferably between 85 degrees and 95 degrees, and more preferably about 90 degrees.

[0046] The separation wall may extend substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0047] The susceptor element may form part of the separation wall. The susceptor element may be disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis. Disposing the susceptor element offset relative to the longitudinal central axis may allow the susceptor element to be positioned closer 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 may be improved. A more efficient aerosol generating system may be provided.

[0048] The offset arrangement of the susceptor elements relative to the longitudinal central axis may allow the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the internal 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 internal airflow channel in cross section. The enlarged cross section of the liquid supply channel may improve the liquid supply rate. Reducing the cross section of the distal portion of the internal airflow channel may enhance the airflow velocity within the airflow channel. Reducing the cross section of the distal portion of the internal airflow channel may enhance the airflow velocity within the airflow channel proximate the susceptor element. A higher velocity may beneficially improve the cooling rate of the airflow. A higher velocity may improve the droplet distribution within the airflow.

[0049] The susceptor element may be arranged offset relative to its 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 internal airflow channel disposed on the opposite side of the susceptor element.

[0050] The susceptor elements may be offset from the central longitudinal axis in a transverse direction perpendicular to the central longitudinal 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. The susceptor elements may be offset from the central longitudinal axis in a transverse direction also perpendicular to the central longitudinal 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.

[0051] The separation wall can be offset relative to the central longitudinal axis. The separation wall can 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.

[0052] 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 internal 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. By reducing the cross-section of the distal portion of the internal airflow channel, the airflow velocity within the airflow channel may be enhanced. By reducing the cross-section of the distal portion of the internal airflow channel, the airflow velocity within the airflow channel adjacent to the susceptor element may be enhanced. A higher velocity may beneficially improve the cooling rate of the airflow. A higher velocity may improve the droplet distribution within the airflow.

[0053] The separation wall may be transversely offset from the central longitudinal axis such that the width of the distal portion of the airflow channel is between 40 percent and 80 percent, preferably between 45 percent and 75 percent, of the width of the liquid supply channel in the transverse direction, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0054] The separation wall may be transversely offset from the central longitudinal axis such that the width of the distal portion of the airflow channel is 40 to 60 percent, preferably 45 to 55 percent, of the width of the liquid supply channel in the transverse direction, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0055] The separation wall may be transversely offset from the central longitudinal axis such that the width of the distal portion of the airflow channel is 60 to 80 percent, preferably 65 to 75 percent, of the width of the liquid supply channel in the transverse direction, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0056] The separation wall may be disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis such that the total internal volume of the liquid supply channel exceeds the internal volume of the distal portion of the internal airflow channel when measured along the entire length of the liquid supply channel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0057] 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 wall in the transverse direction. As used herein, "center of the separation wall" is defined as the transverse center of the separation wall.

[0058] The separation wall generally includes a fluid-permeable portion and a fluid-non-permeable portion. The separation wall is configured to separate the liquid feed channel from a distal portion of the internal airflow channel, excluding the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall. The separation wall is generally configured to allow fluid communication between the liquid feed channel and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel only through the fluid-permeable portion. The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall may include one or more openings or cutouts in the separation wall. The fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall may include a fluid-permeable material, such as, for example, a porous material. The fluid-permeable portion may include a wick element. The fluid-permeable portion may include a susceptor element. The fluid-permeable portion may comprise a heater assembly.

[0059] 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.

[0060] The fluid permeability of the susceptor element can be provided by the inherent porosity of the material used in the susceptor element. The susceptor element can include or consist of a porous material. For example, the porous material can be a porous ceramic or a porous carbon-based material. The porous material can be a metal foam.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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-graphitized carbon black (mGCB) composite.

[0064] The wick element may be disposed 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.

[0065] The wick element may include a ceramic material. The ceramic material may be porous. The ceramic material may be a porous ceramic material. The wick element may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, a porous graphite-based material, or a glass fiber sheet material.

[0066] The wick element may include a porous material, and the susceptor element may include 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.

[0067] As used herein, the term "porosity" is defined as the percentage of a material's voids per unit volume. Porosity is calculated using standard methods and formulas to obtain a decimal value for porosity. By knowing the pore volume (Vp) of a defined volume of material and its total volume (Vt), 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%.

[0068] Better aerosolization results may be obtained if the porosity of the porous material of the susceptor element is higher than the porosity of the porous material of the wick element. The porosity of the susceptor element may be about 25% to 80%, preferably about 55% to 75%, and most preferably about 65% to 75%. The porosity of the wick element may be 10% to 60%, preferably 35% to 55%, and more preferably 40% to 50%, and may be lower than the porosity of the susceptor element.

[0069] The liquid reservoir may surround a proximal portion of the internal airflow channel. The liquid reservoir may include a tubular portion. The liquid reservoir may be tubular. The liquid reservoir may coaxially surround a proximal portion of the internal airflow channel.

[0070] The distal portion of the cartridge may have a circular cross-section perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, and the proximal portion of the cartridge may have an elliptical cross-section perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, which may taper toward the proximal end in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0071] The proximal portion of the cartridge may be configured as a mouthpiece.

[0072] The distal portion of the cartridge may be configured to engage with an aerosol generating device. The distal portion of the cartridge may be configured to be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may include a connecting means. The connecting means may be configured to be releasably connectable to the aerosol generating device.

[0073] 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.

[0074] As used herein, the term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0075] The wall thickness of the outer wall may be 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0076] The liquid supply channel may comprise an absorbent material, preferably a cotton-based absorbent material.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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 include 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.

[0079] The aerosol generating device may include a wall surrounding a cavity. The wall may include a recess on an outer surface thereof. The inductor coil may be at least partially received in the recess.

[0080] 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.

[0081] As used herein, the term "internal airflow channel extending along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge" refers to the general direction of the internal airflow channel along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The internal airflow channel need not extend exactly at the central longitudinal axis. The internal airflow channel, or a portion thereof, may be disposed offset relative to the central longitudinal axis. Also, the internal airflow channel need not extend along a straight line along the central longitudinal axis. For example, the internal airflow channel can be rotated.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 and top bases may be circular. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom and top bases may be non-circular, for example, elliptical, stadium-shaped, or rectangular. One or both of the bottom and top bases may be at least partially open to provide an interior hollow passageway of the tubular element.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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 coincide with the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0086] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" relates to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol or vapor. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can be in liquid form. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used interchangeably.

[0087] The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a liquid held in a liquid reservoir of the cartridge. The liquid reservoir may contain the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0088] Preferably, a liquid nicotine or flavor / flavorant-containing aerosol-forming substrate may be employed within the liquid reservoir portion of the cartridge.

[0089] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine.

[0090] The aerosol-forming substrate can 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.

[0091] 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 can be an article that generates an aerosol that is inhalable by a user sucking or puffing on a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the device, or directly at the mouthpiece of the cartridge itself. A cartridge can be disposable. A cartridge can be reusable. A cartridge can be refillable. A cartridge can be insertable into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device.

[0092] As used herein, the term "liquid reservoir" refers to a reservoir that includes an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound that can form an aerosol. The liquid reservoir may be configured as a container or reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0093] 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.

[0094] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-generating article and / or cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0095] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generation device and one or both of a cartridge and an aerosol-generating article, in which the aerosol generation device and one or both of the aerosol-generating article and cartridge cooperate to generate a respirable aerosol.

[0096] 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.

[0097] The aerosol generating device may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of such 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.

[0098] The housing may include at least one air inlet. The housing may include two or more air inlets.

[0099] The aerosol generating device may include a heating element, which may include at least one inductor coil for inductively heating one or more susceptors.

[0100] 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 for measuring 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 onset of a puff may be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. The onset may also be detected when the user activates a button. The sensor may also be configured as a pressure sensor.

[0101] The aerosol-generating device may include a user interface for activating the aerosol-generating device, such as a button to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating device, or a display that indicates the status of the aerosol-generating device or aerosol-forming substrate.

[0102] The aerosol generating device may include additional components, such as, for example, an electrically operated or charging unit for recharging an on-board power supply within an electric aerosol generating device.

[0103] 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.

[0104] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe the relative position of a cartridge or aerosol generating device component or part thereof with respect to the direction in which a user inhales into the aerosol generating device during use.

[0105] 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.

[0106] As used herein, "susceptor" or "susceptor element" means an element that heats when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This may 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, thereby allowing an aerosol to be formed.

[0107] The susceptor material can 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 can apply to one or both of the susceptor element of a cartridge, the susceptor of an aerosol-generating device, and the susceptor of an 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 can include or consist of ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel, ferromagnetic particles, and ferrite. A suitable susceptor material can 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 can be heated to temperatures above 250 degrees Celsius without degradation.

[0108] The susceptor material may be formed from a single layer of material, which may be a steel layer.

[0109] The susceptor material may include 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 include 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.

[0110] 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 single, indestructible 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.

[0111] The intimate contact between the first and second susceptor materials can be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second susceptor material can be plated, deposited, coated, clad, or welded onto the first susceptor material. Preferred methods include electroplating, galvanizing, and cladding.

[0112] The aerosol generating device may include a power source to power 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 embodiment, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activation of the heating element.

[0113] The power source can 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 can include a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting the DC current provided by the DC power source into alternating current. The DC / AC converter can include a class D, class C, or class E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is provided to the inductor coil.

[0114] 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.

[0115] In other 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] A power source and a controller may be connected to the inductor coil.

[0118] The controller can 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 can be controlled by conventional methods of duty cycle management. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0119] [Figure 1] 1a-1c show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] Figures 2a-2c show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] Figures 3a and 3b show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows an aerosol generation system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0120] 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 another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0121] Example 1: 1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, the cartridge comprising: an internal 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 including a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; a distal portion of the cartridge including an outer wall, a liquid supply channel, and an internal separation wall, wherein the liquid supply channel is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion, the separation wall is disposed between the liquid supply channel and a distal portion of the internal airflow channel, the separation wall including a fluid permeable portion for providing a fluid connection between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel, and the distal portion of the cartridge is surrounded by the outer wall; A cartridge, wherein the distal portion of the cartridge further comprises a heater assembly, the heater assembly comprising a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the susceptor element being disposed on a first surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall, the first surface facing the distal portion of the internal airflow channel.

[0122] Example 2: 10. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the heater assembly includes a wick element for transferring the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element, the wick element being disposed on a second surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall, the second surface facing the liquid supply channel.

[0123] Example 3: 3. The cartridge of example 2, wherein the liquid supply channel is configured to supply liquid from the liquid reservoir to the wick element.

[0124] Example 4: The cartridge of example 2 or 3, wherein the wick element comprises one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material.

[0125] Example 5: The cartridge of any one of Examples 2 to 4, wherein the wick element is substantially planar.

[0126] Example 6: The cartridge of example 5, wherein the susceptor element includes a planar central portion and two curved ends, and the wick element is positioned between the two curved ends.

[0127] Example 7: The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the susceptor element is substantially planar.

[0128] Example 8: The cartridge of example 7, wherein the separation wall is substantially planar, and the separation wall and the susceptor element are substantially coplanar.

[0129] Example 9: The cartridge of example 7 or 8, wherein the susceptor element has a U-shaped cross section.

[0130] Example 10: 10. The cartridge of example 9, wherein the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall and the susceptor element have corresponding U-shapes such that the susceptor element fits within the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall.

[0131] Example 11: The cartridge of any of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the susceptor elements are substantially planar and disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0132] Example 12: The cartridge according to Example 11, wherein the angle between the normal to the planar susceptor element and the longitudinal central axis is 75 to 105 degrees, preferably 80 to 100 degrees, and more preferably 85 to 95 degrees.

[0133] Example 13: 13. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the outer wall is disposed coaxially about the longitudinal central axis.

[0134] Example 14: 14. The cartridge of any of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the liquid reservoir surrounds a proximal portion of the internal airflow channel, preferably wherein the liquid reservoir comprises a tubular portion, more preferably wherein the liquid reservoir is tubular.

[0135] Example 15: The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein a proximal portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece.

[0136] Example 16: 16. The cartridge of any of Examples 1-15, wherein the fluid permeable portion of the separation wall comprises one or more openings or cutouts in the separation wall.

[0137] Example 17: 17. The cartridge of any of Examples 1-16, wherein the heater assembly is attached to a fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall.

[0138] Example 18: 18. The cartridge of Example 17, wherein the non-fluid permeable portion of the separation wall comprises a connector element for attachment to the heater assembly, preferably the connector element comprising a connector strip attached to both the surface of the heater assembly and the surface of the separation wall.

[0139] Example 19: 19. The cartridge of any of Examples 1-18, wherein an outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge comprises a retaining section for retaining one or both of the heater assembly and the separation wall.

[0140] Example 20: 20. The cartridge of example 19, wherein the retention section is provided by two slits disposed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the outer wall.

[0141] Example 21: a distal portion of the cartridge comprising at least one meniscus forming element, the at least one meniscus forming element protruding from the outer wall into a distal portion of the internal airflow channel toward a surface of the susceptor element; 21. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein each meniscus-forming element contacts the surface of the susceptor element or is spaced apart from the surface of the susceptor element such that, during use, a meniscus of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is formed between the surface of the susceptor element and the meniscus-forming element.

[0142] Example 22: 22. The cartridge of any of Examples 1-21, wherein at least a fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall is substantially planar, and wherein the heater assembly is substantially planar, and wherein the fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall is substantially coplanar with the heater assembly.

[0143] Example 23: The cartridge according to Example 22, wherein the angle between the normal to the fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall and the longitudinal central axis is 75 degrees to 105 degrees, preferably 80 degrees to 100 degrees, and more preferably 85 degrees to 95 degrees.

[0144] Example 24: 24. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the separation wall extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cartridge.

[0145] Example 25: 25. The cartridge of example 24, wherein the separation wall is disposed offset relative to the longitudinal central axis.

[0146] Example 26: 26. The cartridge of Example 25, wherein the separation wall is 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.

[0147] Example 27: 27. The cartridge of Example 26, wherein the center of the separation wall is offset transversely from the longitudinal central axis by 5 percent to 15 percent of the outer diameter of the outer wall, and the center of the separation wall center is defined as the center of the separation wall in the transverse direction.

[0148] Example 28: A cartridge described in any of Examples 25 to 27, wherein the separation wall is 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 internal airflow channel when measured along the entire length of the liquid supply channel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

[0149] Example 29: 29. The cartridge of any of Examples 1-28, wherein a distal portion of the cartridge has a circular cross-section and a proximal portion of the cartridge has an elliptical cross-section, preferably tapering towards the proximal end.

[0150] Example 30: A cartridge described in any of Examples 1 to 29, wherein a distal portion of the cartridge is configured to engage with an aerosol generating device, preferably wherein the distal portion of the cartridge is configured to be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0151] Example 31: 27. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 26, wherein the distal end of the cartridge comprises a connecting means configured to be releasably connectable to an aerosol generating device.

[0152] Example 32: A cartridge described in any of Examples 1 to 31, 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.

[0153] Example 33: The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 32, wherein the outer wall has a thickness of 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0154] Example 34: 34. The cartridge of any of Examples 1 to 33, wherein the liquid supply channel comprises an absorbent material, preferably a cotton-based absorbent material.

[0155] Example 35: 35. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 34, 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.

[0156] Example 36: The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 35, wherein the outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge is substantially tubular.

[0157] Example 37: 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 36, An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generator including a cavity disposed to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge; and an inductor coil at least partially surrounding the cavity.

[0158] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0159] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0160] 1a shows in cross-section a cartridge 10 for use with 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.

[0161] The proximal portion of cartridge 10 includes a liquid storage portion 22 for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0162] 1a-1c, the liquid reservoir 22 is tubular and surrounds a proximal portion of the internal airflow channel 24. However, this shape and location of the liquid reservoir 22 is not required.

[0163] The distal portion of cartridge 10 includes an outer wall 26, a liquid supply channel 28, and an interior separation wall 30. Liquid supply channel 28 is in fluid communication with liquid reservoir 22. The distal portion of cartridge 10 is surrounded by outer wall 26. In the embodiment of Figures 1a-1c, outer wall 26 of the distal portion of cartridge 10 is tubular, although this is not required.

[0164] A separation wall 30 is disposed between the liquid supply channel 28 and a distal portion of the internal airflow channel 32. In the embodiment of Figures 1a-1c, the separation wall 30 is disposed offset relative to the central longitudinal axis 16. However, this offset is not required.

[0165] 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.

[0166] The separation wall 30 includes a fluid-permeable portion 36 for providing fluid connection between the liquid supply channel 28 and a distal portion of the internal airflow channel 32. The fluid-permeable wall portion 36 may be provided in the distal portion of the separation wall 30. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1a-1c including the angled wall portion 34, the fluid-permeable wall portion 36 is provided in the distal portion of the separation wall 30 to fluidly connect the narrower distal portion of the liquid supply channel 28 with the distal portion of the internal airflow channel 32.

[0167] 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 central longitudinal axis 20, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1a.

[0168] The distal portion of cartridge 10 further comprises a heater assembly. The heater assembly comprises a susceptor element 38 for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The susceptor element is disposed on a first surface of fluid-permeable portion 36 of separation wall 30, the first surface facing the distal portion of internal airflow channel 32.

[0169] 1a-1c, the heater assembly may further include an optional wick element 40 for transferring the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel 28 to the susceptor element 38. As shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 1a-1c, the wick element may be disposed on the second surface of the fluid-permeable portion 36 of the separation wall 30, the second surface facing the liquid feed channel 28.

[0170] Figure 1b shows a cross-section of Figure 1a along line BB where fluid-permeable wall portion 36 is already present, but at a longitudinal location proximal to the start of angled wall portion 34, resulting in a circular cross-section. One or both of susceptor element 38 and 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.

[0171] 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 start of angled wall portion 34, resulting in a circular cross-section. Fluid cannot pass through separation wall 30 between liquid supply channel 28 and the distal portion of internal airflow channel 32, except at the longitudinal location where fluid-permeable wall portion 36 is located.

[0172] FIG. 2a illustrates an embodiment of the cartridge 10 similar to that of FIGS. 1a-1c, but with a different arrangement of the heater assembly and separation wall 30. FIG. 2a illustrates a cross-section along line BB of FIG. 1a, similar to FIG. 1b. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 2a, the substantially planar susceptor element 38 has a U-shaped cross-section. If present, the optional wick element 40 is substantially planar, coplanar with the susceptor element 38, and also has a U-shaped cross-section. The fluid-permeable portion 36 of the separation wall 30 is provided by a cutout having a corresponding U-shape so that the susceptor element 36, and, if present, the optional wick element 40, fit into the fluid-permeable portion 36 of the separation wall 30. The bridge portion 30a of the separation wall 30 is disposed between the two arms of the U-shape of the susceptor element 38 and the optional wick element 40. The U-shaped arrangement can increase the rigidity of the entire heater assembly. The U-shaped arrangement allows for easy insertion of the susceptor element 38 into the separation wall 30 .

[0173] FIG. 2b illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a heater assembly for cartridge 10. The heater assembly includes a substantially planar susceptor element 38 and a planar wick element 40. The susceptor element 38 includes a planar central portion 38a and two bent ends 38b extending perpendicularly to the planar central portion 38a. As shown in the upper portion of FIG. 2b, the wick element 40 is connected to the susceptor element 38 such that, in the assembled state shown in the lower portion of FIG. 2b, the wick element 40 is positioned between the bent ends 38b. The wick element 40 rests against the planar central portion 38a of the susceptor element 38. This arrangement may provide additional rigidity to the entire heater assembly and further simplify insertion of the susceptor element 38 into the separation wall 30.

[0174] FIG. 2c illustrates an embodiment of a cartridge 10 similar to the cartridge 10 of FIGS. 1a-1c. In particular, FIG. 2c illustrates a cross-section along line BB of FIG. 1a similar to FIG. 1b, but with a different arrangement of the heater assembly and separation wall 30. The heater assembly includes a susceptor element 38 and, optionally, a wick element 40 disposed in the fluid-permeable wall portion 36. The heater assembly of FIG. 2c may be the same heater assembly as the embodiment of FIG. 2b. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 2c, the outer wall 26 of the distal portion of the cartridge 10 includes a retention section 26a for retaining one or both of the heater assembly and the separation wall (not shown in FIG. 2c). The retention section 26a includes two slits disposed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the outer wall 26. The slits extend along the longitudinal axis. The heater assembly, and optionally the entire separation wall including the heating assembly and non-fluid-permeable portion, are received within the slits. The retaining section 26a makes it possible to hold the heater assembly, and optionally the entire separating wall, in place.

[0175] Figure 3a shows an embodiment of a cartridge 10 similar to the cartridge 10 of Figures 1a-1c. In particular, Figure 2c shows a cross section along line BB of Figure 1a, similar to Figure 1b, but consisting of at least one meniscus-forming element 42, 44 in a distal portion of the cartridge 10. The heater assembly includes a susceptor element 38 and, optionally, a wick element 40 disposed in the fluid-permeable wall portion 36. The heater assembly of Figure 3a may be the same heater assembly as the embodiment of Figure 2b.

[0176] At least one meniscus-forming element 42, 44 protrudes from the outer wall 26 into a distal portion of the internal airflow channel 32 toward the surface of the susceptor element 38. Each meniscus-forming element 42, 44 either contacts the surface of the susceptor element 38 or is spaced from the surface of the susceptor element such that, during use, a meniscus 46 of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is formed between the surface of the susceptor element 38 and the at least one meniscus-forming element 42, 44.

[0177] The at least one meniscus forming element 42, 44 may include one or both of the first meniscus forming element 42 and the pair of peripheral meniscus forming elements 44. The at least one meniscus forming element 42, 44 may be integrally molded with the outer wall 26. Each meniscus forming element 42, 44 includes a tip where the meniscus forming element 42, 44 abuts the susceptor element 38. In this embodiment, the tip is to a point, but one skilled in the art will understand that the tip may be of a different shape, for example, the tip may be rounded. The at least one meniscus forming element 42, 44 may improve evaporation of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate at the susceptor element 38 during use.

[0178] 3b shows an embodiment of cartridge 10 in perspective view. A portion of the proximal portion of cartridge 10 is shown, including liquid reservoir 22. The outer wall 26 of the distal portion of cartridge 10 is not shown so that the heater assembly and separation wall 30 are visible. The heater assembly includes a susceptor element 38 and, optionally, a wick element 40.

[0179] The isolation wall 30 includes a connector element for attachment to the heater assembly, which may include a connector strip 48 attached to both a surface of the heater assembly, such as a surface of the susceptor element 38, and a surface of the isolation wall 30.

[0180] FIG. 4 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. 4. The aerosol generation device 100 includes a cavity 110 for receiving a distal portion of the cartridge 10. A wall 112 of the cavity 110 includes a recess 114. The aerosol generation device 100 includes an inductor coil 116. The inductor coil 116 is provided in the recess 114 and surrounds the cavity 110. The recess 114 allows the inductor coil 116 to be advantageously positioned in close proximity to the susceptor element 38 of the cartridge 10.

[0181] 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 or adjacent to the susceptor element 38, causing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to evaporate. As shown by the dotted arrow in FIG. 4 , ambient air can enter the device 100 through the device air inlet 118. The air then passes through the cavity 110 and into the distal portion of the internal airflow channel 32 via the air inlet 16 of the cartridge 10. The air can then absorb the evaporated substrate and further condense to form an aerosol en route to the proximal portion of the internal 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.

[0182] Figure 5 illustrates, in cross-section, a distal portion of an embodiment of cartridge 10. The distal portion of cartridge 10 includes an outer wall 26, a liquid feed channel 28, and an interior separation wall 30. In the embodiment of Figure 5, outer wall 26 does not include a sloped wall portion. Also, in the embodiment of Figure 5, separation wall 30 is not disposed offset relative to central longitudinal axis 20.

[0183] The liquid supply channel 28 is in fluid communication with a liquid storage portion (not shown in FIG. 5 ). A separation wall 30 is disposed between the liquid supply channel 28 and a distal portion of the internal airflow channel 32. The separation wall 30 includes a fluid-permeable portion 36 for providing fluid connection between the liquid supply channel 28 and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel 32. The distal portion of the cartridge 10 is surrounded by an outer wall 26.

[0184] The distal portion of cartridge 10 further comprises a heater assembly including a susceptor element 38 for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Susceptor element 38 is disposed on a first surface of fluid-permeable portion 36 of separation wall 30, with the first surface facing the distal portion of internal airflow channel 32.

[0185] 5 may further include a wick element 40 for transporting the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel 28 to the susceptor element 38. The wick element 40 may be disposed on a second surface of the fluid-permeable portion 36 of the separation wall 30, the second surface facing the liquid supply channel 28.

Claims

1. 1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device comprising an inductor coil, said cartridge comprising: an internal 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 including a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; a distal portion of the cartridge including an outer wall, a liquid supply channel, and an internal separation wall, wherein the liquid supply channel is in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion, the separation wall is disposed between the liquid supply channel and a distal portion of the internal airflow channel, the separation wall including a fluid permeable portion for providing a fluid connection between the liquid supply channel and the distal portion of the internal airflow channel, and the distal portion of the cartridge is surrounded by the outer wall; a cartridge, wherein a distal portion of the cartridge further comprises a heater assembly, the heater assembly comprising a susceptor element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the susceptor element being disposed on a first surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall, the first surface facing the distal portion of the internal airflow channel, and the susceptor element being substantially planar.

2. 2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the heater assembly includes a wick element for transferring the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element, the wick element being disposed on a second surface of the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall, the second surface facing the liquid supply channel.

3. The cartridge of claim 2 , wherein the wick element comprises one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material.

4. 4. The cartridge of claim 2 or 3, wherein the wick element is substantially planar, the susceptor element includes a planar central portion and two curved ends, and the wick element is positioned between the two curved ends.

5. The cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the separation wall is substantially planar, and the separation wall and the susceptor element are substantially coplanar.

6. the susceptor element has a U-shaped cross section, and optionally The cartridge of claim 5 , wherein the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall and the susceptor element have corresponding U-shapes such that the susceptor element fits within the fluid-permeable portion of the separation wall.

7. The cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the susceptor element is disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis.

8. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the outer wall is disposed coaxially about the longitudinal central axis.

9. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid permeable portion of the separation wall comprises one or more openings or cutouts in the separation wall.

10. 10. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the heater assembly is attached to a fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall, the fluid-impermeable portion of the separation wall comprising a connector element for attachment to the heater assembly, preferably the connector element comprising a connector strip attached to both a surface of the heater assembly and a surface of the separation wall.

11. A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the outer wall of the distal portion of the cartridge includes a retaining section for retaining one or both of the heater assembly and the separation wall, the retaining section being provided by two slits arranged on opposite sides of the inner surface of the outer wall.

12. a distal portion of the cartridge comprising at least one meniscus forming element, the at least one meniscus forming element protruding from the outer wall into a distal portion of the internal airflow channel toward a surface of the susceptor element; 12. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein each meniscus forming element is in contact with a surface of the susceptor element or is spaced apart from a surface of the susceptor element such that, during use, a meniscus of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is formed between the surface of the susceptor element and the meniscus forming element.

13. 13. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the separation wall extends substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge, and optionally the separation wall is arranged offset relative 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 including a cavity disposed to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge, and an inductor coil at least partially surrounding the cavity.

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