Heater for aerosol supply device

Abstract

This application relates to a heater for an aerosol supply device. The heater is configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material. The heater has an elongated housing (302) having a housing body (306), an open end (310), and a closed end (313). A heating element (350) extends into the housing (302) along its longitudinal axis, and the housing (302) includes a deformable portion (600) that forms the closed end (313).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heater for an aerosol supply device, an aerosol supply device, an aerosol supply system, and a method for forming a heater for an aerosol supply device. It relates to a method.

[0002] [Background] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products include so-called "non-combustion heating type" products that release compounds by heating materials without burning, or tobacco heating devices or products. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] Aerosol supply systems covering the above-mentioned devices or products are known. A common system uses a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, and then the aerosol is inhaled by the user. In many cases, in order to supply different aerosols for inhalation, it is necessary to exchange or change the medium used. It is known to use a resistance heating system as a heater for generating an aerosol from a suitable medium. Separately from this, it is known that an induction heating system is used as a heater.

[0004] [Summary] According to one aspect, there is provided a heater for an aerosol supply device, comprising an elongated housing having a housing body, an open end portion, and a closed end portion, and a heating element extending within the housing along the longitudinal axis of the housing, the housing comprising a deformed portion forming the closed end portion, the heater being configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material.

[0005] The open end defines the base end of the housing, the closed end defines the free end of the housing, and the deformable portion may define the free end.

[0006] The housing body may extend between the base end and the free end, and the deformable portion may extend from the housing body.

[0007] The housing body has a non-deformable portion defined at its free end, and the deformable portion can come into contact with the non-deformable portion.

[0008] The deformed portion may comprise at least two deformed sections that abut each other to form a closed end.

[0009] The deformed portion may comprise at least three deformed sections to form a closed end.

[0010] At least two deformation sections may come into contact with each other at a point midway between opposing sides of the housing body.

[0011] The housing body can define air gaps.

[0012] The housing itself is tubular.

[0013] The tubular housing body may have a circular cross-section.

[0014] The tubular housing body may have an elliptical cross-section.

[0015] The tubular housing body may have a rectangular prism shape.

[0016] The tubular housing body may be polyhedron-shaped.

[0017] The tubular housing body may have a square cross-section.

[0018] The tubular housing body may have a hexagonal cross-section.

[0019] The tubular housing body may have a polygonal cross-section with chamfered corners.

[0020] The tubular housing body may have a polygonal cross-section with rounded corners.

[0021] The tubular housing body may have a square cross-section with chamfered corners.

[0022] The tubular housing body may have a cross-section comprising at least one straight edge and one curved edge. The deformation portion may converge in the direction from the base end to the free end.

[0023] The deformation portion may define a vertex.

[0024] The deformation portion may at least substantially define one of a conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, or frustopyramidal shape.

[0025] The tip portion may have a prismatic shape.

[0026] The deformation portion may define a raised portion.

[0027] The deformation portion may define a blade-shaped end.

[0028] The deformation portion may define a flat end.

[0029] The deformation portion may include a crimping portion.

[0030] The deformation portion may include a folded portion.

[0031] The tip portion may have a substantially or completely flat surface or a domed surface.

[0032] The substantially or completely flat surface may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0033] The joint between the tip and the housing body may have a rounded edge.

[0034] The joint between the tip and the housing body may be provided with a chamfered portion.

[0035] The joint can define a portion of the tip.

[0036] The dimensions of the housing adjacent to the open end may be larger than the dimensions of the housing at the closed end.

[0037] At least one dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing adjacent to the open end may be greater than the dimension of the housing at the closed end.

[0038] The heater may be equipped with a sealing portion at the closed end to seal the deformed portion.

[0039] The sealing portion may be located within the deformable portion.

[0040] The housing body may have three or more longitudinally extending surfaces.

[0041] Each deformation section may extend from each end of a longitudinally extending surface.

[0042] The cross-section of the housing body perpendicular to the longitudinal axis may have at least one shape from among regular polygons and irregular polygons.

[0043] The radially outer edge of the cross-section may have at least one shape from among regular polygons and irregular polygons.

[0044] The cross-section of the housing, perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, may have an irregular polygonal shape.

[0045] At least one surface of the housing body may have a curved shape.

[0046] The cross-section of the housing body perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing may have an elliptical or oblong shape.

[0047] The housing may be formed from a material of approximately uniform thickness.

[0048] The housing may be made of stainless steel.

[0049] The deformed portion may be formed from stainless steel.

[0050] The non-deformable portion may be formed from stainless steel.

[0051] The housing may be made of aluminum.

[0052] The deformed portion may be formed from aluminum.

[0053] The non-deformable portion may be formed from aluminum. The housing may define a first volume in which a heating element is located, and the heating element may be configured to define a second volume, and the first and second volumes may be substantially the same shape.

[0054] The housing may be formed from a material of non-uniform thickness.

[0055] The cross-sectional shape of the radially inner surface of the housing body may be different from the cross-sectional shape of the radially outer surface of the housing body.

[0056] The cross-sectional shape of the radially inner surface of the housing body perpendicular to the longitudinal axis may be circular.

[0057] The housing may have an outer surface, at least a portion of which may support a coating. The coating may have a lower coefficient of friction than the outer surface of the housing.

[0058] The coating may include low-friction materials.

[0059] The coating may include a glassy layer.

[0060] The glassy layer may be at least one of a glassy glaze and a glassy enamel layer.

[0061] The coating may have a thickness of less than 200 μm, less than 100 μm, or less than 50 μm.

[0062] At least 50%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the outer surface area of ​​the housing can support a low-friction material.

[0063] The coating may extend over the deformed area.

[0064] The heater may be a resistance heater.

[0065] The heating element may also be a resistance heating element.

[0066] The heating element may include a heating coil.

[0067] The heating coil may also be a resistance heating coil.

[0068] The heater may be an induction heater.

[0069] The heating element may be an induction heating element.

[0070] The coil may also be an induction coil.

[0071] According to one embodiment, a heater is provided for use in an aerosol generating device, comprising an elongated housing and a heating element within the housing, wherein the housing has a non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing, and is configured to heat an aerosol product to generate an aerosol.

[0072] The heater may be configured to receive an aerosol supply device. According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply device is provided which is configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material, and the device comprises one of the heaters described above. The aerosol supply device may comprise a heating chamber provided with the heater.

[0073] The aerosol supply device may comprise a power supply, a controller, and a heating chamber from which the aerosol product is removably received. The power supply may be aligned along the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber. The power supply may also be aligned along a second longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber.

[0074] The aerosol supply device may be configured for wireless charging.

[0075] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising any of the above-described aerosol supply devices and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

[0076] The aerosol supply system may include a charging unit having a cavity for removably receiving an aerosol supply device. The charging unit may include a movable lid that covers the aerosol supply device in a closed configuration. The charging unit may include a user display. The user display is visible to the user when the movable lid is in the closed position, and is partially or completely hidden or obscured by the lid when the lid is in the open position.

[0077] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for forming a heater for an aerosol supply device, comprising the steps of: providing an elongated housing; inserting a heating element into the elongated housing; and deforming one end of the housing to form a closed end of the housing.

[0078] The heating element may be inserted before one end of the housing is deformed.

[0079] One end of the housing may be deformed before the heating element is inserted into the elongated housing.

[0080] According to one embodiment, a method for generating an aerosol is provided, comprising the steps of providing an aerosol supply device configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material, wherein the device includes the heater described above, and at least partially inserts the aerosol product into a receiving portion of a heating chamber.

[0081] Next, various embodiments will be described as mere examples, with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0082] [Figure 1] This shows a perspective view of the aerosol supply device located within the charging unit. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device and the aerosol products of the aerosol supply system. [Figure 4] A perspective view of another aerosol supply device is shown. [Figure 5] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the device. [Figure 6] Figure 1 or Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater of the device. [Figure 7] A perspective view of the deformed portion of the housing is shown. [Figure 8] Schematic cross-sectional views of the heater of the device shown in Figure 1 or Figure 4, according to various embodiments, are shown. [Figure 9] Figure 1 or Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater of the device.

[0083] [Detailed explanation] According to this disclosure, a “non-flammable” aerosol supply system is a system in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components of the constituent aerosol-generating materials) of the aerosol supply system are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0084] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0085] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaporization device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0086] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. An example of such a system is a cigarette heating system.

[0087] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates aerosols using a combination of one or more aerosol-generating materials that can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0088] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may comprise a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0089] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may comprise a region for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating region, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0090] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material transfer component, aerosol generator, aerosol generating area, housing, packaging material, filter, suction nozzle, and / or aerosol modifier.

[0091] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” refers to a material that can generate an aerosol when energy is supplied, for example, by heating, irradiation, or any other means. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or semi-solid (such as a gel), which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0092] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0093] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may also be present. Optionally, a solvent such as water may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant-based materials. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0094] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating film, or may be in the form of an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may include a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a delivered substance and / or fillers may also be present. The aerosol-generating film does not have to contain substantially plant-based materials. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco-free.

[0095] The aerosol-generating film may have a thickness of approximately 0.015 mm to approximately 1 mm. For example, the thickness may be in the range of approximately 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, or 0.15 mm to approximately 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.

[0096] The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may contain a continuous sheet of material. The sheet may be in the form of packaging material, gathered to form a gathered sheet, or shredded to form a shredded sheet. The shredded sheet may contain one or more strands or strips of the aerosol-generating material.

[0097] The aerosol-generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol-generating film may include one or more individual parts or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as dots, stripes, or lines, which may be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be a flat or non-flat surface.

[0098] An aerosol-generating film can be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more other components, such as one or more substances to be delivered, in order to form a slurry, and then by heating the slurry to volatilize at least some of the solvent in order to form an aerosol-generating film.

[0099] An aerosol supply device can receive an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, “article” means a component that contains or is contained with an aerosol-generating material at the time of use, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally, other components at the time of use. The user can insert the article into or on top of the aerosol supply device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, and the user then inhales the aerosol. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example, configured to be placed inside or on top of a heater of a device sized to receive the article.

[0100] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to supply thermal energy to the aerosol-generating material in order to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol.

[0101] Consumables are articles containing or consisting of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are intended to be consumed by the user during use. Consumables may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which generates heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol during use. The heater may comprise, for example, a flammable material, an electrically conductive material, or a susceptor.

[0102] A susceptor is a heating material that can be heated by penetration due to a fluctuating magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be a conductive material, and as a result, penetration of the conductive material by the fluctuating magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, and as a result, penetration of the magnetic material by the fluctuating magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both conductive and magnetic, and as a result, the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. An aerosol supply device configured to generate a fluctuating magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0103] A non-flammable aerosol supply system may comprise a modular assembly that includes both a reusable aerosol supply device and replaceable aerosol products. In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include a power supply and a controller (or control circuit). The power supply may include a power source such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol product may comprise the aerosol generating component partially or entirely.

[0104] Figure 1 shows an aerosol supply system 10 comprising an aerosol supply device 100 and a charging unit 101. The device is shown located within the cavity of the charging unit 101. The aerosol supply device 100 is arranged to generate an aerosol from an aerosol product (see Figure 3) that can be inserted into the aerosol supply device 100 when in use. In the embodiment, the article forms part of the aerosol supply system 10.

[0105] The aerosol supply device 100 is an elongated structure extending along its longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device has a proximal end that is closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when the user inhales the aerosol produced by the aerosol supply device 100, and a distal end that is furthest from the user when the aerosol supply device 100 is used. The proximal end may also be called the “mouth end.” The aerosol supply device 100 also accordingly defines a proximal direction that faces toward the user when used. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device 100 also similarly defines a distal direction that faces away from the user when used. The terms proximal and distal applied to the function of the device 100 are explained by referring to the relative arrangement of such functions to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply device 100 has an opening at its distal end that leads into a heating chamber.

[0106] The aerosol supply device 100 can be removably inserted into the charging unit 101 for charging. The charging unit 101 includes a cavity (see Figure 2) for receiving the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 can be inserted into the cavity through an opening. The cavity may also include a longitudinal opening. A portion of the aerosol supply device 100 may include a first side surface. One or more user-operable control elements, such as a button 106, which can be used to operate the aerosol supply device 100, may be provided on the first side surface of the aerosol supply device 100. The first side surface of the aerosol supply device 100 may be received by a longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the cavity of the charging unit 101 may have a cross-sectional profile that allows the aerosol supply device 100 to be inserted into the charging unit 101 in only one orientation. According to one embodiment, the outer profile of the aerosol supply device 100 may include a curved portion and a straight portion. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity provided in the charging unit 101 may also include a similar curved portion and a straight portion. The straight portion of the cross-sectional profile of the cavity may correspond to a longitudinal opening.

[0108] The charging unit 101 may include a sliding lid 103. When the aerosol supply device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 for recharging, the sliding lid 103 may be closed to cover the opening into the aerosol supply device 100. In other embodiments, the charging unit 101 may have an alternative lid configuration, such as a hinged or pivoted lid, or it may not have a lid at all.

[0109] The charging unit 101 may include a user interface such as a display 108, which can be installed in any convenient location, such as the position shown in Figure 1.

[0110] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 comprises a main housing 200. The main housing 200 defines the device body of the device 100. The device 100 defines a heating chamber 201. A receptacle 205 defines the heating chamber 201. An opening 203 is provided to provide access to the heating chamber 201. The receptacle 205 comprises a wall configuration including a receptacle side wall 205a and a receptacle base 205b. The base 205b is at the distal end of the receptacle 205. The heating zone 201a is configured to receive at least a portion of an article for heating.

[0111] The heating element 301 may be provided on a portion of the main housing 200, and the heating element 301 may extend into or protrude into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 301 may have a base 301a that can be located in a recess provided on a portion of the body of the device 100. The heating element 301 stands upright within the heating chamber 201. The heating element 301 stands upright from its distal end.

[0112] The heating element 301 comprises an elongated heating element in the form of a pin. In other embodiments, the heating element 301 comprises another elongated form, such as a blade. When in use, the heating element 301 is inserted into the distal end of the aerosol product 50 (see Figure 3) received in the heating chamber 201 to heat the aerosol product internally.

[0113] The housing comprises a housing wall 200a. The housing wall 200a extends along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 and surrounds the heating chamber 201. The housing wall 200a can define, at least in part, the receiving chamber of the aerosol supply device 100 as a volume enclosed within the wall 200a. The housing base 200b is at the distal end of the housing wall 200a. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating member 301 rises from the housing base 200b. The heating member 301 protrudes from the receptacle base 205b. The receptacle base 205b has a hole 206 from which the heating member 301 protrudes. In the embodiment, the heating member 301 rests on the receptacle base 205b. The heating member 301 rises from the receptacle base 205b.

[0114] The aerosol supply device 100 further comprises a removal mechanism 204 which can be detachably held in the main housing 200 of the aerosol supply device 100. In embodiments, the removal mechanism 204 is omitted. In embodiments, the housing wall 200a defines a receptacle 205 in at least part of it. The removal mechanism 204 may be held in the main housing 200, so that at least part of the removal mechanism 204 extends into the heating chamber 201. In this embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 may comprise a longitudinal portion such as a tubular peripheral wall portion 207a and a base wall portion 207b. The wall 207a may have a shape other than tubular and may be any shape that encloses (e.g., surrounds) and defines the heating chamber 201 internally.

[0115] In embodiments having a removal mechanism 204, the removal mechanism 204 defines the heating chamber 201. The removal mechanism 204 forms the receptacle 205. In embodiments where the removal mechanism 204 is omitted, other functions of the device 100 define the heating chamber 201, for example, the housing side wall 200a and the housing base 200b.

[0116] The base portion 207b has a hole 206 from which the heating element 301 can protrude. In order to hold the removal mechanism 204 in the main housing 200, the removal mechanism 204 is pushed distally, i.e., toward the distal end of the main housing 200, to engage with the main housing 200 until the removal mechanism 204 can no longer move distally. In the following description, when the removal mechanism 204 is referred to as "held in" the main housing 200, this means that the removal mechanism 204 is engaged with the main housing 200 and cannot move distally.

[0117] The peripheral portion 207a and the base portion 207b may together define and enclose an article chamber for receiving the aerosol product 50, as shown in Figure 3. The article chamber comprises an inner surface configured to contact the aerosol product, the inner surface comprising a longitudinally extending portion provided by the tubular portion 207a and an end portion provided by the base portion 207b. In embodiments, the article chamber and the heating chamber are the same. When the aerosol product 50 is received in the heating chamber, the aerosol product may come into contact with both the longitudinally extending portion and the end portion of the inner surface. In particular, the article chamber (i.e., the peripheral portion 207a and the base portion 207b) may be configured to receive at least a portion of a rod-shaped aerosol product 50 that is longitudinally extending and cylindrical, such that the longitudinal axis of the article is parallel to (and optionally aligned in a line with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 when received in the article chamber.

[0118] The article chamber may also be called the receiving portion. When the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200, the article chamber of the removal mechanism 204 is positioned at least partially within the heating chamber 201 during use. The heating member 301 may be positioned to protrude into the article chamber through a hole 206 provided in the base portion 207b of the removal mechanism 204. Thus, the removal mechanism 204 is configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol product during use.

[0119] In this embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 may include a first magnet or magnetizable material 208. The main housing 200 may include a second magnet or magnetizable material 209. During use, the removal mechanism 204 may be magnetically held to the main housing 200 by the interaction between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209.

[0120] In the embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 is completely separable from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 may be held in the main housing 200 by the magnetic attraction between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209. The removal mechanism 204 may be separated from the main housing 200 by overcoming the magnetic force between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209. In the embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 is removably held in the main housing 200 by other means. For example, the removal mechanism 204 may be configured to be removably held in the main housing 200 by an interlocking fit with the main housing.

[0121] The removal mechanism 204 may comprise an internal element (comprising a tubular portion 207a and a base portion 207b) and an outer cap portion 210, and when held in the main housing 200, the outer cap portion 210 encloses (e.g., covers) at least a portion of the main housing, such as the wall 200a of the main housing 200. The tubular portion 207a, the base portion 207b, and the outer cap portion 210 may comprise a single (e.g., a single) component (e.g., formed by molding). Alternatively, the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b may comprise a first component, and the outer cap portion 210 may comprise a second separate component. The first and second components may then be fixed to each other.

[0122] Figure 4 shows another aerosol supply system 40. System 40 comprises an integrated aerosol supply device 400 for generating aerosols from aerosol-generating material, and an aerosol product 50 containing the aerosol-generating material. Device 400 can be used to heat the aerosol product 50 containing the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that can be inhaled by a user of device 400.

[0123] The device 400 comprises a housing 500 that surrounds and houses various components of the device 400. The housing 500 is elongated. The device 400 has an opening 504 at one end into which an article 50 can be inserted for heating by the device 400. The article 50 can be fully or partially inserted into the device 400 for heating by the device 400.

[0124] The device 400 may include user-operable control elements 506, such as buttons or switches, which activate when these are activated, for example, pressed. For example, a user can activate the device 400 by pressing a switch 406.

[0125] The device 400 defines a longitudinal axis 509 along which the article 50 may extend when it is inserted into the device 400. The opening 504 is aligned on the longitudinal axis 509.

[0126] Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply system 40. The functions described with reference to Figure 5 in the embodiment are applicable to the embodiment described above. The aerosol supply device 400 may include a power supply 410, a controller 420, and a heating chamber 401 in which the aerosol product 50 is removably received.

[0127] The integrated device in Figure 5 shows a power supply 410 aligned along the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber 401. In another embodiment of the integrated aerosol generation device, the power supply is aligned along a second longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber.

[0128] The heating element 301 comprises an elongated heating element in the form of a pin. In embodiments, the heating element 301 comprises other elongated forms such as a blade. The heating element 301 is provided in the heating chamber. The heating element 301 in Figure 5 and the heating element 301 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3 may each be subject to the details described herein. The heating element 301 extends into or protrudes within the heating chamber 401.

[0129] The heating element 301 can be inserted into the distal end of the aerosol product received in the heating chamber 401 in order to heat the aerosol product internally during use.

[0130] The aerosol supply devices 100,400 include a heating configuration 300. The heating configuration 300 includes a heater. The heating element 301 functions as a heater. The heater includes a heating element 350 (see Figure 6), such as a resistance heating coil, which is arranged to act to heat the heating element 301.

[0131] The heating configuration 300 is a resistance heating configuration. The heater is a resistance heating heater. Heating elements such as heating coils, described later, are resistance heating elements. In such a configuration, the heating assembly comprises a resistance heating generator which includes components for heating the heating elements via a resistance heating process. In this case, current is applied directly to the resistance heating elements, and as a result, the current flowing through the heating elements functions as heating components, and the heating elements are heated by Joule heating. The resistance heating elements include a resistance material configured to generate heat when an appropriate current passes through the resistance heating elements, and the heating configuration comprises electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistance material. In the embodiment, the heating elements form at least a portion of the resistance heating member itself. In the embodiment, the resistance heating elements transfer heat to the heating member, for example, by conduction. By providing a resistance heating configuration, a compact configuration is possible. Resistance heating provides an efficient form.

[0132] Figure 6 shows a heating element 301 for use in the aerosol supply device described above. The heating element 301 functions as a heater or forms at least part of a heater. The heating configuration 300 comprises the heating element 301. The heating element 301 comprises an elongated housing 302 and a heating element 350. The elongated housing 302 is an elongated member that defines a longitudinal axis.

[0133] The elongated housing 302 is formed from a thermally conductive material such as aluminum. Other suitable materials such as stainless steel or ceramic may be used. The elongated housing may have a coating on its outer surface. The elongated housing 302 is configured to transfer heat from the heating element 350 to the heating zone 201a.

[0134] The elongated housing 302 has a base end 303 and a free end 304. The base end 304 is mounted on the device body. The mounting portion 305 of the base end 303 supports the heating member 301. It will be understood that different mounting configurations may be used, such as bonding including fixing, molding, and adhesive. The mounting portion 305 may be a separate component or may be formed integrally with the elongated housing 302.

[0135] The elongated housing 302 comprises a housing body 306, which is tubular. The housing body 306 includes a bore 307, which defines an inner void 308 of the heating member 301. The inner void 308 extends in the longitudinal direction. In the embodiment, the inner void 308 is at least partially filled with, for example, a filler. In the embodiment, the inner void 308 is completely filled with, for example, one or more fillers and / or components. In the embodiment, the inner void 308 defines an air gap. The inner surface 309 is defined on the inside of the elongated housing 302. The base end 303 is provided with an open end 310 to the inner void 308.

[0136] The free end 304 of the elongated housing 302 extends toward the proximal end of the heating chamber. The free end 304 of the heating member 301 is closed. The free end 304 is the closed end 313. The inner gap 308 does not penetrate the free end 304. The tip 311 is provided on the free end 304. The tip 311 extends to the apex 312.

[0137] The heating element 350 extends into the heating member 301. The heating element 350 extends into the longitudinally elongated housing 302. The heating element 350 is received in the inner void 308. The heating element 350 extends between the base end 303 and the distal end 304. In the embodiment, the heating element extends partially along the length of the inner void 308. In the embodiment, the heating element 350 extends to or beyond the open end 310.

[0138] In the embodiment, the heating element 350 comprises a heating coil 351. The heating coil 351 comprises a resistive member defining the heating coil 351. In the embodiment, the heating coil 351 comprises an electrically insulating coating, such as ceramic, to electrically insulate the heating coil 351 from the elongated housing 302. In the embodiment, the electrically insulating coating is thermally conductive to provide heat transfer from the heating element 350 to the elongated housing 302. In the embodiment, the electrically insulating coating is omitted. In the embodiment, a separate electrically insulating configuration is provided, such as at least one of an electrically insulating member and an electrically insulating filler. In the embodiment, the electrically insulating member and the electrically insulating filler are thermally conductive to provide heat transfer from the heating element 350 to the elongated housing 302.

[0139] The heating coil 351 is a resistance heating coil. The heating coil 351 is a helical coil. The heating coil 351 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. It will be understood that other coil configurations are also possible. In the embodiment, the heating coil 351 has a circular cross-sectional profile. In the embodiment, the heating configuration 300 comprises two or more heating coils.

[0140] The heating configuration 300 includes electrical connection paths. The electrical connection paths extend from each end of the heating element 350. A base electrical connection path 352 extends from the distal end of the heating element 350. A return electrical connection path 353 extends from the proximal end of the heating element 350. The return electrical connection path overlaps the longitudinal range of the heating element 350. The electrical connection paths are formed integrally with the heating element, for example, as a single wire. In embodiments, a connector connects the electrical connection paths to the heating element 350. The heating coil 351 is formed from a resistive material such as a nickel / chromium alloy like nichrome 80 / 20 (80% nickel, 20% chromium), an iron / chromium / aluminum alloy, or a copper / nickel alloy.

[0141] The cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis at any point along the length of the housing 302 is of a regular shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated housing 302 has a circular cross-section. The housing body 306 is cylindrical, and the free end 304 of the elongated housing 302 is conical. The tip 311 is conical. Other shapes and forms of the tip 311 are provided, for example, the tip 311 may define a substantially or completely flat surface or a domed surface. In the embodiment, the substantially or completely flat surface extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The tip 311 may define, for example, a frustoconical, truncated pyramidal, or truncated pyramidal shape. In the embodiment, the tip 311 has a prism shape.

[0142] In the embodiment, the joint between the tip portion 311 and the housing body 306 has a rounded edge. In the embodiment, the joint between the tip portion 311 and the housing body 306 has a chamfered edge. In the embodiment, the joint defines a portion of the tip portion 311.

[0143] The elongated housing 302 is formed of walls of non-uniform thickness. The wall thickness of the elongated housing decreases towards the tip 311. The wall thickness and / or thickness profile of the housing body 306 and the tip 311 differ in embodiments. For example, the wall thickness of at least a portion of the tip may be smaller than the wall thickness of the housing body 306 to aid in the deformation of that section.

[0144] The elongated housing converges towards the tip 311. In the embodiment, the elongated housing 302 is formed of walls of uniform thickness. In the embodiment, the wall thickness of the elongated housing increases towards the tip 311.

[0145] The elongated housing 302 is configured to define a first volume 314 in which a heating coil 351 is located, and the heating coil 351 is configured to define a second volume 315, and the first and second volumes 314, 315 are substantially the same shape. The inner void 308 is the same shape as the heating coil 351. It will be understood that the elongated housing 302 may be any suitable shape. Embodiments of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated housing 302 may vary along the length of the elongated housing 302. The cross section may have the shape of a regular polygon and / or an irregular polygon. The dimensions of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated housing 302 may vary along the range of the elongated housing 302. The maximum diameter of the elongated housing 302 may decrease between the base end 303 and the free end 304 so that the elongated housing 302 converges. The maximum diameter of the elongated housing 302 can be found at a point midway between the base of the housing 302 and the free end 304. The elongated housing 302 may be formed from a material of approximately uniform thickness.

[0146] The housing body 306 may have any suitable shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-section of the housing body 306 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is circular. The housing body 306 is substantially cylindrical. In the embodiment, at least one face of the housing body 306 is curved. In the embodiment, the cross-section of the housing body 306 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing 302 is at least one of regular polygons and irregular polygons. In the embodiment, the cross-section of the housing body 306 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing 302 may be elliptical or oblong. In the embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the radially inner surface of the housing body 306 is different from the cross-sectional shape of the radially outer surface of the housing body 306. In other words, the housing 302 has a non-uniform configuration. In the embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the radially inner surface of the housing body 306 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis may be circular. In the embodiment, the housing body 306 has a prismatic shape. The housing body 306 may be a polyhedron. The housing body 306 may have a polygonal cross-section with chamfered corners. The housing body 306 may have a polygonal cross-section with rounded corners. The housing body 306 may have a cross-section comprising at least one straight edge and one curved edge.

[0147] Referring to Figures 6 to 9, the tip 311 of the elongated housing 302 of the heating element 301 further comprises a deformable portion 600 and a non-deformable portion 602. The deformable portion 600 forms a closed end 313.

[0148] In the context of this document, “deformation” is intended to describe the subsequent state of any function of a component that has been processed after its formation. Such functions may include parts, sections, pieces, sections, segments, or tranches of a component. A deformed part may undergo at least one of the following during the deformation process of a pre-formed component: bending, molding, compression, stretching, straining, curving, bending, buckling, and crimping. This deformation occurs after the initial formation of the component, such as casting or molding of the component. A deformed function or component is one that has undergone some deformation in the past to change its shape and / or physical properties. “Non-deformed” is intended to describe any function of a component that has not been “deformed” during the assembly of the device and has not been processed after the initial formation process.

[0149] The housing body 306 defines a non-deformable portion. The non-deformable portion 602 is located at the distal end of the heating chamber. The non-deformable portion 602 defines the base end 303 of the housing 302. The non-deformable portion 602 defines the open end 310 of the housing 302. The non-deformable portion 602 extends from the base end 303 of the housing 302 toward the free end 304 of the housing 302. The deformable portion 600 extends from the non-deformable portion 602 of the housing 302.

[0150] The non-deformable portion 602 extends from the base end 303 of the housing 302 to the deformable portion 600. The non-deformable portion 602 and the deformable portion 600 are integral. The non-deformable portion 602 and the deformable portion 600 form an integrated component. The non-deformable portion houses the heating element.

[0151] The tip portion 311 defines the deformed portion 600. The deformed portion 600 defines the distal end of the housing 302. The deformed portion 600 defines the free end 304 of the housing 302. The deformed portion 600 forms the closed end 313 of the elongated housing 302. The deformed portion 600 undergoes a deformation process to form the closed end 313.

[0152] The tip portion 311 converges to the vertex 312. The wall thickness of the material in the deformed portion 600 decreases as the tip portion 311 converges toward the vertex 312. The wall thickness of the material in the deformed portion is smaller than the wall thickness of the material in the non-deformed portion 602. In the embodiment, the wall thickness of the material in the deformed portion 600 is uniform. In the embodiment, the wall thickness of the material in the deformed portion 600 may be the same as the thickness of the material in the non-deformed portion 602.

[0153] Figures 7, 8, and 9 show modified portions 600 according to various embodiments.

[0154] Figure 7 shows a closed end 313 similar to the closed end 313 of the heating element 301 in Figure 6, with the elongated housing 302 deformed. The elongated housing 302 is deformed to form the closed end 313. In Figure 7, the deformed portion 600 includes a crimped portion 605. The free end 304 of the housing 302 is deformed by the crimping process.

[0155] The crimped portion 605 is formed by circumferentially clamping it with the free end 304. In embodiments, the crimped pattern may be a regular and uniform pattern. The crimped portion 605 may define an impression at the closed end. By deforming the elongated housing 602 in this way, the surface area in contact with the article 50 is increased. The increased surface contact between the heating configuration and the article 50 improves the efficiency of heat energy transfer. Increased efficiency reduces the time required to aerosolize the aerosol-generating material in the article 50. This improves the user experience of the device 400.

[0156] Figure 8 shows an embodiment of a closed end 313 in which the deformable portion 600 comprises a first deformable section 606 and a second deformable section 607. The number of deformable sections may vary and may be three or more. The first and second deformable sections 606, 607 converge so that the free end 304 closes. The first and second deformable sections 606, 607 define the ends of the inner gap 308. The first and second deformable sections 606, 607 abut each other to form a closed end 313. The first and second deformable sections 606, 607 abut each other at a location midway between the opposing sides of the housing 302. The deformable portion 600 forms a raised portion 612. The deformable portion 600 forms a blade-shaped end. The deformable portion 600 forms a flat end. The deformable sections 606, 607 can be crimped together. In embodiments, the deformable sections fold over each other.

[0157] In the embodiment, the deformable portion 600 comprises three or more deformable sections 606, 607 that abut at intermediate locations on three sides of the housing. The unprocessed sections that become the deformable sections may be defined by a prior process step such as cutting, stamping, or molding. The deformable portion 600 may define a conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, or frustoconical shape.

[0158] Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a closed end 313 in which the deformable portion 600 abuts against the non-deformable portion 614 of the elongated housing 302. The non-deformable portion 614 is on the opposite side of the elongated housing 302 from the deformable portion 600. The deformable portion is defined by one or more deformable sections 613.

[0159] The deformable section 613 abuts against the non-deformable portion 614 of the elongated housing 302. The deformable portion 600, together with the non-deformable portion 614, forms the closed end 313. The non-deformable portion and the deformable portion are on opposing sides. The deformable section 613 and the non-deformable portion 614 abut each other to form the closed end 313. The deformable section 613 and the non-deformable side 614 abut each other at the location of the opposing side 614 of the housing 302. By deforming the elongated housing in this way, the housing can function as an insertion guide member for the article 50 and / or to guide the article 50 precisely into the heating chamber 401 (see Figure 4). This embodiment for forming the closed end 313 of the elongated housing 302 also preferably simplifies the assembly of the device because deformation is required only on one side of the housing. Preferably, deformation is required in only one direction. Preferably, the housing does not need to be manufactured to have the closed end 313 before the assembly of the heating member 301 or the device, but can instead be formed during assembly. The closed end 313 can be formed during assembly before or after the insertion of the heating element 350.

[0160] The elongated housing 302 can be deformed in any of the ways described and illustrated. In embodiments, for example, the elongated housing can define a deformable portion 600 which also includes a blade-like ridge 612 and a crimped section 605. Any combination of deformation actions can be taken to create a closed end 313 of the elongated housing 302.

[0161] The closed end 313 is configured to restrict fluid and / or particulate matter from entering the inner void 308. The closed end is fluid-sealed. In embodiments, the deformation itself forms the fluid seal. In embodiments, a sealing member is provided. In Figure 9, a sealing member 608 is positioned on the closed end 313 to seal the deformable portion 600. The sealing member 608 can be positioned in any of the illustrated embodiments of the present invention. The sealing member restricts liquid and / or particulate matter from entering the inner void 308. The sealing portion is positioned within the deformable portion 600. In embodiments, the sealing member may be formed during the formation of the deformable portion 600. The deformable portion may include overlapping portions. The overlapping portions may be at least 180 degrees overlapping portions. In embodiments, the closed end 313 may be sealed or welded closed. In embodiments, the sealing portion 608 may be positioned on the non-deformable portion 602. Sealing the housing helps to extend the operating life of the heating configuration. The intrusion of fluids and / or particulate matter may reduce the efficiency of the heating element 350.

[0162] The non-deformable portion 602 and the deformable portion 600 are formed from the same material, such as aluminum 316. Such materials help to increase thermal conductivity and deformability. Other suitable materials, such as stainless steel, may also be used. Such materials help to increase mechanical strength. In other embodiments, the non-deformable portion 602 and the deformable portion 600 may be formed from different materials. The deformable and non-deformable portions may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials.

[0163] A portion of the outer surface of the elongated housing 302 is coated. The coating has a lower coefficient of friction than the outer surface of the housing 302. At least the deformable section 604 of the housing 302 supports the coating. The coating allows the article 50 to slide more easily against the elongated housing 302. The coating reduces the possibility of the article 50 getting caught in the device, especially over the deformable portion. The coating includes a glassy layer. The coating has a thickness of less than 200 μm. The coating is a glassy glaze. The coating includes a glassy enamel layer. In embodiments, the coating is a glassy material bonded to the housing body 306. In embodiments, the coating may be any other suitable coating.

[0164] The coating helps to create a surface that allows for self-cleaning when inserting the article 50 into the heating chamber 201. The coating helps to protect the surface of the heating element 301. The coating helps to protect the surface of the heating element 301 from corrosion.

[0165] In the embodiment, at least the housing body 306 supports the coating. In the embodiment, at least 50% and / or at least 70% and / or at least 80% of the area of ​​the outer surface of the housing 302 supports the low-friction material. The coating can facilitate the insertion and removal of the article 50 onto the heating member 301. The coating extends the life of the heating member 301 by reducing wear between the article 50 and the heating member 301 during insertion of the article 50 into the device.

[0166] During the assembly of the device, the elongated housing 302 is initially provided in an undeformed state. In the assembly method of the heating element 301, the elongated housing 302 defines only the undeformed portion. The heating element 350 is inserted into the elongated housing 302. The heating element 350 is inserted into the free end 304 of the elongated housing 302. Subsequently, the free end 304 of the elongated housing 302 is deformed to define the deformed portion 600 and the undeformed portion. The elongated housing 302 is deformed to close the free end 304. The free end 304 defines the closed end. In embodiments, the heating element 350 may be inserted into the base end 303 of the housing. The heating element 350 may be inserted before the elongated housing 302 is deformed. Thus, the heating element may be inserted from the free end 304. This can be helpful in assembly. In embodiments, the heating element is inserted after the elongated housing 302 has been deformed. The complex shape of the tip 311 of the elongated housing does not need to be created initially, as it can be formed by a deformation process. Since the manufacturing equipment and quality control standards during the manufacturing stage do not need to be very high, initial manufacturing costs can be saved.

[0167] In the embodiments described above, the heating configuration is an induction heating configuration. Other types of heating configurations, such as induction heating, may be used in the embodiments. In such configurations, low-resistance or non-resistive materials may be used to form the heating coil 351. The configuration of the device is generally as described above, so a detailed description is omitted.

[0168] An induction heating configuration comprises various components for heating the aerosol-generating material of an article via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductive heating element (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating configuration may comprise an induction element, for example, one or more induction coils, and a device for passing a fluctuating current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The fluctuating current within the induction element creates a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field penetrates a susceptor (heating element) that is suitably positioned relative to the induction element. Compared to heating by conduction, for example, induction heating allows for rapid heating because heat is generated inside the susceptor. Furthermore, since no physical contact is required between the induction element and the susceptor, it increases the freedom of construction and application.

[0169] In induction heating, heat is generated in the susceptor (heating element), whereas in resistance heating, heat is generated in the coil (heating element).

[0170] In this embodiment, the heating element of the aerosol supply system is not part of the aerosol supply device, but rather part of the aerosol product. The heating element may be a resistive heating element, for example, in the form of a resistive coil as described above, provided as part of the aerosol product. Electrical connections allow current to flow through the resistive heating element.

[0171] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed functions. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, actions, functions, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims, or to equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be used and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or essentially consist of, disclosed elements, components, functions, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An elongated housing having a housing body, an open end, and a closed end, A heating element extending within the housing along the longitudinal axis of the elongated housing, Equipped with, The housing includes a deformed portion that forms the closed end, A heater for an aerosol supply device, configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material.

2. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the open end defines the base end of the housing, the closed end defines the free end of the housing, and the deformable portion defines the free end.

3. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to claim 2, wherein the housing body extends between the base end and the free end, and the deformable portion extends from the housing body.

4. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein the housing body defines a non-deformable portion of the housing at the free end, and the deformable portion abuts against the non-deformable portion.

5. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein the deformed portion comprises at least two deformed sections that abut each other to form the closed end.

6. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to claim 5, wherein the at least two deformation sections abut each other at a location midway between opposing sides of the housing body.

7. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the housing body defines an internal void.

8. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the deformed portion converges in the direction from the base end to the free end.

9. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the deformed portion defines a vertex.

10. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the deformed portion comprises a crimped portion.

11. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the deformed portion comprises an overlapping portion.

12. A heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the closed end is provided with a sealing portion to seal the deformed portion.

13. A heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cross section of the housing body perpendicular to the longitudinal axis has at least one shape from regular polygons and irregular polygons.

14. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the heater is a resistance heating heater.

15. The heater for an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the heating element comprises a heating coil.

16. The long, slender housing, The heating element within the housing, Equipped with, The housing has a non-circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing, A heater for use in an aerosol generating device, configured to heat the aerosol product in order to generate an aerosol.

17. An aerosol supply device comprising a heater according to any one of claims 1 to 16, configured to heat an article containing an aerosol generating material.

18. A system comprising a heater according to any one of claims 1 to 16 or a device according to claim 17, and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

19. A step that provides an elongated housing, The steps include inserting the heating element into the elongated housing, The steps include: deforming the end of the housing to form a closed end of the housing; A method for forming a heater for an aerosol supply device, including the following.

20. A method for forming a heater for an aerosol supply device according to claim 19, wherein the heating element is inserted before the end of the housing is deformed.

21. A method for forming a heater for an aerosol supply device according to claim 19, wherein the end of the housing is deformed before the heating element is inserted into the elongated housing.

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