Cartridge for aerosol generator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge (10) for an aerosol generator (40). The cartridge may include a first liquid storage portion (12). The first liquid storage portion may comprise a first liquid aerosol forming substrate (16). The cartridge may further include a second liquid storage portion (14). The second liquid storage portion may comprise a second liquid aerosol forming substrate (18). The first liquid aerosol forming substrate may differ from the second liquid aerosol forming substrate. The cartridge further comprises a first wicking element (24) fluidly connected to the first liquid storage portion and a second wicking element (24) fluidly connected to the second liquid storage portion. The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generator configured to receive a cartridge, and to an aerosol generator configured to receive a cartridge.

Description

Technical Field

[0002]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge for an aerosol generating device. The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device configured to receive the cartridge and an aerosol generating device configured to receive the cartridge.

Background Art

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable vapor. Such a device can heat a liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate volatilize without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can be provided in liquid form in a liquid storage portion as part of a replaceable or refillable cartridge. Conventionally, wicking elements have been employed to wick the liquid aerosol-forming substrate towards a heating coil.

[0003] There is a need for a cartridge for an aerosol generating device in which the wicking of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the heating element of the heating assembly is improved. There is a need to have a cartridge for an aerosol generating device in which the airflow over the heating element of the heating assembly is improved to improve entrainment of the volatilized liquid aerosol-forming substrate. It is desirable for the cartridge for the aerosol generating device to have an improved airflow through the cartridge. There is a need for a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can accommodate the use of different aerosol-forming substrates.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generating device is provided. The cartridge may include a first liquid storage portion. The first liquid storage portion may comprise a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may further include a second liquid storage portion. The second liquid storage portion may comprise a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The first liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be different from the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0005] [Figure 1] This shows a cartridge for an aerosol generator. [Figure 2] The image shows a top cross-sectional view of the cartridge. [Figure 3] A cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge is shown. [Figure 4] A cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge is shown. [Figure 5] A cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge is shown. [Figure 6] A cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge is shown. [Figure 7] This shows a top cross-sectional view of the wicking element of the cartridge that comes into contact with the heating element of the heating assembly of the aerosol generator. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional exploded side view of one embodiment of an aerosol generator, cartridge, and heating assembly. [Figure 9] Figure 8 shows the elements in their assembled state. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] The present invention will be further described with reference to the attached drawings, for illustrative purposes only.

[0007] Figure 1 shows a cartridge 10 for an aerosol generator 40. The cartridge 10 includes a first liquid storage section 12 and a second liquid storage section 14. The first liquid storage section 12 is configured to hold a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate 16. The second liquid storage section 14 is configured to hold a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate 18. The first liquid aerosol-forming substrate 16 is different from the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate 18. Preferably, the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate 16 contains nicotine, while the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate 18 contains a flavoring agent.

[0008] Figure 1 further illustrates the central airflow channel 20 of the cartridge 10. The central airflow channel 20 is positioned parallel to the first liquid storage section 12 and parallel to the second liquid storage section 14. The first liquid storage section 12 is positioned parallel to the second liquid storage section 14. The central airflow channel 20 is positioned to allow vaporized aerosol-forming substrate from the first and second liquid storage sections 14 to be drawn through the cartridge 10 and exit through the air outlet 22 of the cartridge 10. The air outlet 22 is positioned at the proximal or downstream end of the cartridge 10.

[0009] A wicking element 24 is provided at the distal or upstream end opposite to the cartridge 10. The wicking element 24 is fluidly connected to the first liquid storage section 12 and the second liquid storage section 14 so that the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate 16 and the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate 18 can be humidified by the wicking element 24. The wicking element 24 is configured to wick the first and second aerosol-forming substrates toward the heating element 38 of the heating assembly 42, as described herein.

[0010] The first liquid storage section 12 is arranged to be fluidly separated from the second liquid storage section 14 so that the first liquid aerosol forming substrate 16 does not mix with the second liquid aerosol forming substrate 18.

[0011] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional top view of the cartridge 10 along line AA shown in Figure 1. Figure 2 shows the first liquid storage portion 12 having the same cross-sectional shape as the second liquid storage portion 14. Figure 2 further shows the arrangement of the central airflow channel 20 of the cartridge 10.

[0012] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge 10. In this embodiment, the first liquid storage portion 12 has a different cross-sectional shape from the second liquid storage portion 14. As a result, the first liquid storage portion 12 can hold a different amount of the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate 16 compared to the holding capacity of the second liquid storage portion 14 of the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate 18.

[0013] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge 10. In this embodiment, a further third liquid storage portion 24 is provided for holding a third liquid aerosol-forming substrate 26. The cross-sectional shapes of the first liquid storage portion 12, the second liquid storage portion 14, and the third liquid storage portion 24 are different. Furthermore, each of the first liquid storage portion 12, the second liquid storage portion 14, and the third liquid storage portion 24 is configured to hold a different liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0014] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge 10. In this embodiment, a separation wall 28 is provided within the central airflow channel 20 of the cartridge 10. The separation wall 28 extends along the longitudinal central axis of the central airflow channel 20. The separation wall 28 fluidly separates the central airflow channel 20 into a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the central airflow channel 20 is fluidly connected to a first liquid storage portion 12. The second portion of the central airflow channel 20 is fluidly connected to a second liquid storage portion 14. This configuration allows for the separation of the airflow saturated with a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate 16 vaporized in the first portion of the central airflow channel 20 from the airflow saturated with a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate 18 vaporized in the second portion of the central airflow channel 20.

[0015] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional top view of a further embodiment of the cartridge 10. In this embodiment, the first liquid storage portion 12 is configured to be removable from the cartridge 10. As shown in Figure 6, the first liquid storage portion 12 can be separated from the central airflow channel 20 of the cartridge 10. This configuration is particularly beneficial when the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate 16 is depleted. The unused first liquid storage portion 12 can then be coupled to the cartridge 10. Similarly, the second liquid storage portion 14 can be configured to be removable from the cartridge 10, either as an alternative to or in addition to the first liquid storage portion 12.

[0016] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional top view of the wicking element 24 of the cartridge 10 that contacts the heating element 38 of the heating assembly 42 of the aerosol generator 40. In this embodiment, the wicking element 24 is separated into a first wicking element 34 and a second wicking element 36. A portion of the first wicking element 34 is in fluidic contact with the first liquid storage portion 12 in order to wick the first liquid aerosol forming substrate 16 toward the heating element 38. The first delivery portion of the first wicking element 34 is in contact with the heating element 38. The cross-section of the first delivery portion that contacts the heating element 38 is as shown in Figure 7. The large proximal surface of the first wicking element 34 may be in fluidic contact with the first liquid storage portion 12. The large distal surface of the first wicking element 34 may be in fluidic contact with the heating element 38. The second wicking element 36 is configured to have a second delivery portion that is in contact with the heating element 38 and is in fluid contact with the second liquid storage portion 14.

[0017] Figure 8 is an exploded cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of the aerosol generator 40, cartridge 10, and heating assembly 42. In this embodiment, the heating element 38 is detachably configured as part of the susceptor body 44. The heating element 38 (and preferably the substrate layer of the heating element 38, which is not shown in Figure 8) is held by a susceptor holder 46. The susceptor body 44 further includes an air intake 48. The susceptor body 44 is sandwiched between the cartridge 10 and the body 50 of the aerosol generator 40.

[0018] The main body 50 of the aerosol generator 40 includes an induction coil 52 that is at least partially surrounded by a magnetic flux concentrator 54. The magnetic flux concentrator 54 in this embodiment has a U-shape for concentrating the alternating magnetic field created by the induction coil 52 toward the heating element 38. The main body 50 further includes a smoke absorption sensor 56.

[0019] The wicking element 24 is disposed as part of the cartridge 10. The wicking element 24 is in fluid connection with the liquid storage portion of the cartridge 10. In the assembled state (as will be described with reference to FIG. 9 below), the wicking element 24 contacts the heating element 38 so as to supply the liquid aerosol forming substrate from the liquid storage portion to the heating element 38.

[0020] FIG. 9 shows the elements of FIG. 8 in the assembled state. In particular, FIG. 9 shows how ambient air 60 is drawn into the aerosol generating device 40 through the air inlet 48. The air flows over the heating element 38 and through the through holes 58 of the heating assembly 42. FIG. 9 further shows a vaporization region 62 where the liquid aerosol forming substrate is vaporized in an area not covered by the heating element 38 (not covered by the wicking element 24).

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generating device is provided. The cartridge includes a first liquid storage portion. The first liquid storage portion comprises a first liquid aerosol forming substrate. The cartridge further includes a second liquid storage portion. The second liquid storage portion comprises a second liquid aerosol forming substrate. The first liquid aerosol forming substrate is different from the second liquid aerosol forming substrate.

[0022] By providing cartridges with different liquid aerosol forming substrates, the adaptability of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device is enabled. Exemplarily, the first aerosol forming substrate may contain nicotine and the second aerosol forming substrate may contain a flavoring agent. If an improved aerosol is desired, it is sufficient to replace the first aerosol forming substrate or the second aerosol forming substrate respectively. Further, different aerosol forming substrates may have one or more of different viscosities, different wicking properties, and different vaporization properties. Therefore, it may not be desirable to mix these different aerosol forming substrates and store, wick, and vaporize them together. According to the present invention, it may be possible to improve one or more of the storage, wicking, and vaporization of the individual aerosol forming substrates.

[0023] The first liquid storage portion can be spatially separated from the second liquid storage portion. The first liquid storage portion can be disposed laterally spaced apart from the second liquid storage portion.

[0024] The main extension axis of the first liquid storage portion can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The main extension axis of the second liquid storage portion can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The main extension axis of the first liquid storage portion can be parallel to the main extension axis of the second liquid storage portion.

[0025] The first liquid aerosol-forming substrate can contain nicotine. The first liquid aerosol-forming substrate can have a nicotine concentration of from about 0.5% to about 10%, for example about 2%.

[0026] The first liquid aerosol-forming substrate can contain one or more of free base nicotine, a nicotine salt, a mixture of nicotine salts, and a mixture of free base nicotine and one or more nicotine salts.

[0027] The second liquid aerosol-forming substrate can contain a flavoring agent.

[0028] The second liquid aerosol-forming substrate can contain a solvent or a mixture of a solvent and a flavoring agent.

[0029] The second liquid aerosol-forming substrate can contain water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, and a natural or artificial flavoring agent.

[0030] The first liquid storage portion can have a volume for holding the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is different from the volume of the second liquid storage portion for holding the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate. In other words, the volume of the first liquid storage portion can be different from the volume of the second liquid storage portion.

[0031] The first liquid storage portion can be fluidly separated from the second liquid storage portion.

[0032] The cartridge wall may be positioned between the first liquid storage section and the second liquid storage section.

[0033] The cartridge may further comprise a first liquid storage section and a first wicking element fluidly connected to it.

[0034] The cartridge may further comprise a second liquid storage section and a second wicking element fluidly connected to it.

[0035] One or both of the first and second wicking elements may be composed of a capillary material, preferably a capillary material, and may have a fibrous or spongy structure. The capillary material preferably includes bundles of capillaries. For example, the capillary material may include multiple fibers or threads, or other microtubules. The fibers or threads may generally be aligned to transport the liquid to the heater. Alternatively, the capillary material may include sponge-like or foam-like materials. The structure of the capillary material forms multiple small holes or tubes through which the liquid can move by capillary action. The capillary material may include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include sponge-like or foam materials, ceramic or graphite-based materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamy metal or plastic materials, fibrous materials, such as spun or extruded fibers (cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, ethylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramics, etc.). Capillary materials may have any suitable capillary action and porosity for use with different liquid physical properties. Liquids have physical properties, including but not limited to viscosity, surface tension, density, thermal conductivity, boiling point, and vapor pressure, that allow the liquid to move through the capillary material by capillary action. Capillary materials may be configured to transport an aerosol-forming substrate to a heat-generating element.

[0036] One or both of the first and second wicking elements may extend into the first and second liquid storage portions, respectively. In this case, during use, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be transferred from the respective liquid storage portions to the heating element by capillary action in the respective wicking elements.

[0037] A heating element may be part of a heating assembly for an aerosol generator. The heating assembly may comprise an airflow channel and a heating element. The heating element may be at least partially disposed within the airflow channel or at least partially disposed surrounding the airflow channel. The heating element may include one or more through-holes to allow air flowing through the airflow channel to also flow through the heating element.

[0038] The main extension axis of the heating element may be perpendicular to the main extension axis of the airflow channel.

[0039] The through-hole for the heating element may be centrally located within the airflow channel.

[0040] The heating element may be circular, disc-shaped, rectangular, or planar. Preferably, the heating element is annular.

[0041] The heating element may include a plurality of through holes arranged in a regular pattern within the heating element.

[0042] One or more through holes may be configured as slits.

[0043] The heating element includes or preferably consists of a heating track, and preferably the thickness of the heating track may be 2 micrometers to 500 micrometers, more preferably 4 micrometers to 100 micrometers.

[0044] The heating element may include a meandering heating track.

[0045] The heating element may include at least two concentric heating tracks.

[0046] The heating element includes a susceptor material, and preferably consists of a susceptor material.

[0047] The heating element includes a susceptor material, and preferably consists of a susceptor material.

[0048] The heating element may be configured as a detachable heating element.

[0049] The heating element may be disposed on the substrate layer, and preferably the protective layer includes glass, and preferably is made of glass.

[0050] The heating element may be adjacent to the magnetic flux concentrator, or preferably embedded within the magnetic flux concentrator.

[0051] One or both of the first and second wicking elements may be arranged in direct contact with the heating element.

[0052] One or both of the first and second wicking elements may be positioned proximal or distal to the heating element.

[0053] One or both of the first wicking element and the second wicking element may have one or more through holes aligned with one or more through holes in the heating element.

[0054] One or both of the first and second wicking elements may be arranged to at least partially surround the heating element.

[0055] One or both of the first and second wicking elements may be provided as a covering on a heating element. One or both of the first and second wicking elements may be disposed on the heating element. One or both of the first and second wicking elements may be disposed on the first side of the heating element, and the substrate layer may be disposed on the second opposite side of the heating element.

[0056] One or both of the first and second wicking elements include, and preferably may consist of, a glass or ceramic material.

[0057] One or both of the first and second wicking elements may include, preferably, glass or ceramic material. One or both of the first and second wicking elements may include, preferably polymer material, such as cotton, Kevlar®, or felt or sponge-like material that can withstand temperatures of at least 200°C. In a preferred embodiment, one or both of the first and second wicking elements may include, preferably Kevlar® or cotton. These materials may be beneficial from a toxicological standpoint. These materials readily conform to the shape of the heating element, thereby preventing gaps from forming between one or both of the first and second wicking elements and the heating element.

[0058] The first wicking element may include a first delivery portion configured to deliver a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a heating element. The second wicking element may include a second delivery portion configured to deliver a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a heating element.

[0059] The first delivery portion may be formed integrally with the first wicking element. The second delivery portion may be formed integrally with the second wicking element.

[0060] The main surface region of the first delivery portion may be planar, and the main surface region of the second delivery portion may also be planar.

[0061] The main surface region of the first delivery portion may differ from the main surface region of the second delivery portion. The main surface region of the first delivery portion may be larger or smaller than the main surface region of the second delivery portion.

[0062] The first wicking element may be configured to wick a larger amount of liquid aerosol-forming substrate over time than the second wicking element, or vice versa.

[0063] The first wicking element may have a partially annular ring shape.

[0064] The second wicking element may have a partially annular ring shape.

[0065] The first and second wicking elements may both have a perfect annular shape. In other words, the first and second wicking elements may be configured like the two elements of a two-element pie chart, where both elements together form a perfect pie chart.

[0066] The first wicking element may be arranged to be fluidly separated from the second wicking element. A gap may be provided between the first and second wicking elements.

[0067] The cartridge may further include a central airflow channel. A first liquid storage section may be disposed laterally offset from the central airflow channel. A second liquid storage section may be disposed laterally offset from the central airflow channel. A first liquid storage section may be disposed parallel to the central airflow channel. A second liquid storage section may be disposed parallel to the central airflow channel. The main extension axis of the first liquid storage section may be parallel to the main extension axis of the central airflow channel. The main extension axis of the second liquid storage section may be parallel to the main extension axis of the central airflow channel. The central airflow channel may have a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the central airflow channel may have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section.

[0068] The first wicking element can be fluidly connected to the central airflow channel. The second wicking element can be fluidly connected to the central airflow channel.

[0069] The heating element can be fluidly connected to the central airflow channel. One or both of the first and second wicking elements can be fluidly connected to the central airflow channel in the heating element.

[0070] The central airflow channel may include a separation wall that separates the central airflow channel into a first portion and a fluid-separated second portion, either along the entire length of the central airflow channel or along a partial length of the central airflow channel.

[0071] The first wicking element can be fluidly connected to the first part of the central airflow channel. The second wicking element can be fluidly connected to the second part of the central airflow channel.

[0072] The first portion of the central airflow channel may be fluidically separated from the second portion of the central airflow channel. The main extension axis of the first portion of the central airflow channel may be parallel to the main extension axis of the second portion of the central airflow channel.

[0073] The cross-sectional surface area of ​​the first portion of the central airflow channel may differ from the cross-sectional surface area of ​​the second portion of the central airflow channel.

[0074] The ratio of the cross-sectional surface area of ​​the first portion of the central airflow channel to the cross-sectional surface area of ​​the second portion of the central airflow channel may be similar to or identical to the ratio of the large surface area of ​​the first wicking element to the large surface area of ​​the second wicking element.

[0075] The separation wall may extend along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0076] The central airflow channel may extend along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0077] The first liquid storage section may be configured to be detachable from the cartridge.

[0078] The second liquid storage section may be configured to be detachable from the cartridge.

[0079] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system, which includes an aerosol generating device configured to receive the cartridge described herein.

[0080] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generator configured to receive a cartridge described herein. The aerosol generator may include a cavity for receiving the cartridge.

[0081] The aerosol generator may include a heating assembly. The cartridge may include a wicking element. When the cartridge is attached to the aerosol generator, the wicking element may come into contact with the heating element of the heating assembly.

[0082] As used herein, the terms “proximal,” “distal,” “downstream,” and “upstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generator with respect to the direction in which the user inhales the aerosol generator during use.

[0083] An aerosol generator may include a mouth end through which, during use, aerosols exit the aerosol generator and are delivered to the user. The mouth end may also be referred to as the proximal end. During use, the user inhales the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generator to inhale the aerosols generated by the aerosol generator. Alternatively, the user may directly inhale an aerosol-generating article inserted into an opening at the proximal end of the aerosol generator. The opening at the proximal end may be a cavity opening. The cavity may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. An aerosol generator includes a distal end opposite to the proximal or mouth end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generator may also be referred to as the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generator may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components or parts of an aerosol generator can be described as being upstream or downstream of each other, based on their relative positions between the proximal end, downstream end, or mouth end of the aerosol generator and the distal end or upstream end of the aerosol generator.

[0084] As used herein, “aerosol generator” refers to a device that generates an aerosol by interacting with an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article, for example, part of a smoking article. The aerosol generator may be a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol generator may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol generator may comprise a housing, an electrical circuit, a power supply, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0085] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term “smoking” in relation to apparatus, articles, systems, substrates, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which the aerosol-forming substrate is completely or at least partially burned. The aerosol-generating apparatus of the present invention is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate, but above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released, in order to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0086] The aerosol generator may include an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The electrical circuit may include further electronic components. The electrical circuit may be configured to regulate the supply of power to a heating element. Power may be supplied to the heating element continuously following the startup of the aerosol generator, or intermittently, such as with each smoke extraction. Power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of current pulses. The electrical circuit may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and, preferably, control the supply of power to the heating element in accordance with the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0087] An aerosol generator may have a power source, typically a battery, within its main body. In one embodiment, the power source is 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, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery). Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy for one or more use experiences. For example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosols for a period of about six minutes, or for periods of multiples of six minutes. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of fume extractions or discontinuous activation of a heating element.

[0088] The cavity of the aerosol generator may have an open end into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The open end may be the proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for providing an air opening located within the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be located upstream of the cavity. The open end may be located downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongated extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be the direction extending between the open end and the closed end along the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator.

[0089] The cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article received inside the cavity. The cavity may have a circular cross-section. The cavity may have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0090] The airflow channel may extend through the cavity. Ambient air may be drawn through the airflow channel into the aerosol generator, into the cavity, and toward the user. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece may be provided, or the user may directly inhale the aerosol generating article. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece. The heating assembly is preferably disposed within or adjacent to the airflow channel, as described herein.

[0091] In any aspect of this disclosure, the heating element may include an electrical resistive material. Suitable electrical resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conductive" ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilide), carbon, graphite, metals, alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped ceramics or undoped ceramics. An example of a suitable doped ceramic is doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum platinum, gold, and silver. Examples of suitable metallic alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-containing, titanium-containing, zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, gold-containing, and iron-containing alloys, as well as nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel-based superalloys, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum alloys. In composite materials, the electrical resistive material may be embedded in, sealed in, or covered with an insulating material, depending on the required energy transfer dynamics and external physicochemical properties, or vice versa.

[0092] As described, in any aspect of the present disclosure, a heating element may be part of an aerosol generator. The aerosol generator may comprise an internal heating element, an external heating element, or both an internal and an external heating element; “internal” and “external” refer to an aerosol-forming substrate. The internal heating element may take any suitable form. In one such embodiment, an electrically resistive heating element may be formed using a metal having a clear relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a track on a suitable insulating material such as a ceramic material and then sandwiched between other insulating materials such as glass. A heater thus formed may be used both for heating the heating element in operation and for monitoring its temperature.

[0093] As an alternative to electrically resistive heating elements, heating elements may be configured as inductive heating elements. Inductive heating elements may comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. The heating elements described herein may be susceptors. Generally, a susceptor is a material that has the ability to generate heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When located within an alternating magnetic field, if the susceptor is conductive, typically, eddy currents are induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is magnetic, typically, another effect contributing to heating is generally called hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss arises mainly from the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor. This is because the magnetic orientations of these domains align with the alternating induced magnetic fields. Another effect contributing to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains expand or contract within the susceptor. Generally, all these changes occurring at or below the nanoscale within the susceptor generate heat within the susceptor and are therefore referred to as "hysteresis loss." Therefore, if the susceptor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and eddy current generation contribute to the heating of the susceptor. If the susceptor is magnetic but not conductive, hysteresis loss will be the only means by which the susceptor will be heated when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the present invention, the susceptor can be conductive or magnetic, or both conductive and magnetic. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or more induction coils heats the susceptor, which then transfers heat to the aerosol-forming substrate, thereby forming an aerosol. Heat transfer can be mainly by conduction. Such heat transfer is best when the susceptor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0094] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate having the ability to release volatile compounds capable of forming aerosols. For example, an aerosol-generating article may be a smoking article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user’s mouth. An aerosol-generating article may be disposable.

[0095] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate having the ability to release one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Conveniently, the aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article or a smoking article. [Examples]

[0096] A non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of any of the features described above, for example, one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0097] Example 1. A cartridge for an aerosol generator, the cartridge is A first liquid storage portion comprising a first liquid aerosol forming substrate, A second liquid storage portion comprising a second liquid aerosol forming substrate, A cartridge in which the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate is different from the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 2. The cartridge according to Example 1, wherein the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate contains nicotine. Example 3. The cartridge according to either Example 1 or 2, wherein the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises one or more of the following: free base nicotine, nicotine salt, a mixture of nicotine salts, and a mixture of free base nicotine and one or more nicotine salts. Example 4. A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate contains a flavoring agent. Example 5. The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises a solvent, or a mixture of a solvent and a flavoring agent. Example 6. The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the first liquid storage portion has a volume for holding the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is different from the volume of the second liquid storage portion for holding the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 7. A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, further comprising a first wicking element fluidly connected to a first liquid storage portion. Example 8. A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, further comprising a second wicking element fluidly connected to a second liquid storage portion. Example 9. The cartridge according to Examples 7 and 8, wherein the first wicking element includes a first delivery portion configured to deliver a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a heating element, and the second wicking element includes a second delivery portion configured to deliver a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a heating element. Example 10. The cartridge according to Example 9, wherein the main surface area of ​​the first delivery portion is planar, and the main surface area of ​​the second delivery portion is planar. Example 11. The cartridge according to Example 9 or 10, wherein the main surface area of ​​the first delivery portion is different from the main surface area of ​​the second delivery portion. Example 12. A cartridge according to any of Examples 7 to 11, wherein the first wicking element has a partially annular ring shape. Example 13. The cartridge according to any of Examples 7 to 12, wherein the second wicking element has a partially annular ring shape. Example 14. A cartridge according to any one of Examples 7 to 13, wherein the first wicking element is arranged to be fluidly separated from the second wicking element. Example 15. A cartridge according to any of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the cartridge further includes a central airflow channel. Example 16. A cartridge according to any of Examples 7 to 14 and Example 15, wherein a first wicking element is fluidly connected to a central airflow channel, and a second wicking element is fluidly connected to a central airflow channel. Example 17. The cartridge according to Example 15 or 16, wherein the central airflow channel includes a separation wall that separates the central airflow channel into a first portion of the central airflow channel and a fluid-separated second portion of the central airflow channel, either along the entire length of the central airflow channel or along a partial length of the central airflow channel. Example 18. A cartridge according to any of Examples 7 to 14 and Example 17, wherein a first wicking element is fluidly connected to a first portion of the central airflow channel, and a second wicking element is fluidly connected to a second portion of the central airflow channel. Example 19. The cartridge according to Example 17 or 18, wherein the cross-sectional surface area of ​​the first portion of the central airflow channel is different from the cross-sectional surface area of ​​the second portion of the central airflow channel. Example 20. A cartridge according to any of Examples 17 to 19, wherein the separation wall extends along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Example 21. A cartridge according to any of Examples 15 to 20, wherein the central airflow channel extends along the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Example 22. A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the first liquid storage portion is configured to be detachable from the cartridge. Example 23. A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the second liquid storage portion is configured to be detachable from the cartridge. Example 24. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device configured to receive a cartridge as described in any of Examples 1 to 23. Example 25. An aerosol generator configured to receive a cartridge as described in any of Examples 1 to 23.

[0098] Features described in relation to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cartridge for an aerosol generator, wherein the cartridge is A first liquid storage portion comprising a first liquid aerosol forming substrate, A second liquid storage portion comprising a second liquid aerosol forming substrate, The first liquid aerosol-forming substrate differs from the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate, The cartridge further comprises a first wicking element fluidly connected to the first liquid storage portion, A cartridge further comprising a second wicking element fluidly connected to the second liquid storage portion.

2. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate contains nicotine.

3. The cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises one or more of the following: free base nicotine, a nicotine salt, a mixture of nicotine salts, and a mixture of free base nicotine and one or more nicotine salts.

4. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate contains a flavoring agent.

5. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises a solvent, or a mixture of a solvent and a flavoring agent.

6. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first liquid storage portion has a volume for holding the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is different from the volume of the second liquid storage portion for holding the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

7. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first wicking element includes a first delivery portion configured to deliver the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a heating element, and the second wicking element includes a second delivery portion configured to deliver the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a heating element.

8. The cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the main surface area of ​​the first delivery portion is planar, and the main surface area of ​​the second delivery portion is planar.

9. The cartridge according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the main surface area of ​​the first delivery portion is different from the main surface area of ​​the second delivery portion.

10. The cartridge according to any one of claims 0 to 9, wherein the first wicking element has a partially annular ring shape.

11. The cartridge according to any one of claims 0 to 10, wherein the second wicking element has a partially annular ring shape.

12. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device configured to receive a cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. An aerosol generator configured to receive a cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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