Heater for aerosol supply device

Abstract

A heater for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising an elongated housing having a longitudinal axis, comprising a free end, a base end, and a longitudinally extending inner cavity, the base end defining the opening of the inner cavity, and a heating coil disposed within the inner cavity of the elongated housing and extending longitudinally within the inner cavity, wherein the inner cavity has a first longitudinal range, and the heating coil has a second longitudinal range, the first longitudinal range being substantially the same as the second longitudinal range.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] 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 combustion. Examples of such products include so-called "non-combustion heating type" products that release compounds by heating a material without burning it, 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] An aerosol supply system covering the above-described device or product is 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 resistive heating system as a heater for generating an aerosol from a suitable medium. Separately from this, it is known that an inductive heating system is used as a heater.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect, a heater for an aerosol supply device is provided, the heater comprising an elongated housing having a longitudinal axis, comprising a free end, a base end, and an inner cavity extending longitudinally, the base end defining the mouth of the inner cavity; a heating coil disposed within the inner cavity of the elongated housing and extending longitudinally within the inner cavity; The inner cavity has a first longitudinal range, and the heating coil has a second longitudinal range, with the first longitudinal range being substantially the same as the second longitudinal range.

[0005] The inner cavity may have a first longitudinal range L1, and the heating coil may have a second longitudinal range L2. According to various embodiments, the first longitudinal range L1 is substantially the same as the second longitudinal range L2. For example, the heating coil may have a length L2 that is at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the length of the inner cavity or the longitudinal range L1.

[0006] The inner cavity may be at least partially filled with one or more of the following: (i) potting compound, (ii) adhesive, (iii) thermosetting plastic, or (iv) epoxy resin.

[0007] The inner cavity may be filled with a thermal and / or electrical insulating material, such as a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic, or epoxy resin.

[0008] Other embodiments are conceivable in which the heating coil may more generally comprise a resistance heating element. For example, according to various embodiments, an aerosol supply device may be provided, which comprises an elongated housing having a longitudinal axis, the elongated housing comprising a free end, a base end, and an inner cavity extending in the longitudinal direction. The base end defines the opening of the inner cavity. The resistance heating element is disposed within the inner cavity of the elongated housing, and the resistance heating element extends in the longitudinal direction within the inner cavity. The inner cavity has a first longitudinal range, and the resistance heating element has a second longitudinal range, the first longitudinal range being substantially the same as the second longitudinal range.

[0009] The elongated housing may contain metal or a metal alloy. For example, the elongated housing may contain stainless steel or aluminum. Alternatively, the housing may contain ceramic.

[0010] The heater may further include a heater mount for securing the heater within the chamber of the aerosol supply device.

[0011] The heater mount may include a base portion having an engagement surface positioned to engage with the end of an elongated housing. At least a portion of the base portion may include an electrical insulator and / or thermal insulator.

[0012] The engaging surface may have a first cross-sectional profile, and the end of the elongated housing may have a second cross-sectional profile, with the first and second cross-sectional profiles being substantially similar.

[0013] The heater mount may further include a protruding portion extending a distance d1 within the inner cavity of the elongated housing. According to various embodiments, the distance d1 may be <10%, <9%, <8%, <7%, <6%, <5%, <4%, <3%, <2%, or <1% of the length or longitudinal range L1 of the inner cavity. In particular, the distance d1 may be <5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1% of the axial length of the inner cavity.

[0014] The base portion of the heater mount may further include a flange or base plate for securing the heater mount within the chamber of the aerosol supply device.

[0015] The heater mount is One or more openings, channels or passages, It may further include one or more electrical connectors, cables, or wires extending through one or more openings, channels, or passages and connected to a heating coil.

[0016] The heater is A first electrical connector, cable, or wire connected to a first end of a heating coil, wherein the first end of the heating coil is located near the free end of an elongated housing, The heating coil may further include a second electrical connector, cable, or wire connected to a second end of the heating coil, wherein the second end of the heating coil is located near the base end of the elongated housing. A first electrical connector, cable, or wire extends through one or more openings, channels, or passages, and / or a second electrical connector, cable, or wire extends through one or more openings, channels, or passages.

[0017] One or more portions of the heater mount may contain, or at least partially fill, a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic, or epoxy resin.

[0018] The base end of the elongated housing may be provided with one or more holes, slots, openings or recesses, which are at least partially filled with a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic or epoxy resin.

[0019] In another embodiment, an aerosol supply device is provided which is configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material, the device comprising the heater described above.

[0020] In another embodiment, a system is provided comprising the above-described aerosol supply device and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

[0021] In another embodiment, a method for manufacturing a heater for an aerosol supply device is provided, and this method is A step of providing an elongated housing having a longitudinal axis, a free end, a base end, and an internal cavity extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the base end defines the opening of the internal cavity, The process includes the step of positioning the heating coil within the housing such that the heating coil extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis, The longitudinal range of the inner cavity is substantially the same as the longitudinal range of the heating coil.

[0022] According to various embodiments, the inner cavity may have a longitudinal range L1, and the heating coil may have a longitudinal range L2. The heating coil may have a length L2 that is at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% of the length or longitudinal range L1 of the inner cavity.

[0023] The first end of the housing may define an opening through which access can be had from the outside of the housing to the inner cavity. The heating coil extends in the longitudinal direction and has a longitudinal axis, and the method includes the step of arranging the heating coil within the inner cavity such that the heating coil does not contact the housing.

[0024] The method may further include the step of attaching a heater mount to the end of the housing. The heater mount includes a base portion having an engagement surface arranged to engage with the end of the elongate housing, and a protruding portion extending a distance d1 within the inner cavity of the elongate housing.

[0025] The method may further include the step of forming in situ at least a part of the heater mount from a potting compound, an adhesive, a thermosetting plastic or an epoxy resin.

[0026] According to another aspect, a method of generating an aerosol is provided, the method comprising the step of providing an aerosol supply device as described above, and the step of at least partially inserting an article containing an aerosol generating material into the aerosol supply device.

[0027] The method may further include the step of operating the aerosol supply device to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating article.

[0028] The heater may be a resistance heating heater. The heating coil may be a resistance heating component. The heating coil may be a resistance heating element. The coil may be a resistance heating heater coil.

[0029] The heater may be an induction heater. The heating coil may be an induction heating element. The coil may be an induction coil.

[0030] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply device is provided, configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material, and comprising the heater described above. The aerosol supply device may also comprise a heating chamber equipped with a heater.

[0031] The aerosol supply device may include a power supply, a controller, and a heating chamber, and 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.

[0032] The aerosol supply device may be configured for wireless charging.

[0033] According to one embodiment, an aerosol supply system is provided comprising the above-described aerosol supply device and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

[0034] 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 may be visible to the user when the movable lid is in the closed position, and may be partially or completely hidden by the lid or hidden from view when the lid is in the open position.

[0035] In another embodiment, a method for generating an aerosol is provided, comprising the steps of providing the aerosol supply device described above, and inserting the aerosol product at least partially into a receiving portion of a heating chamber.

[0036] The method may further include the step of activating an aerosol supply device to generate an aerosol from an aerosol product.

[0037] Next, various embodiments will be described as mere examples, with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0038] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an aerosol supply system, including an aerosol supply device located within a charging unit. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol supply device and the aerosol products of the aerosol supply system. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of another aerosol supply device. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device. [Figure 6] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater of the device shown in Figure 1 or Figure 4. [Figure 7] This figure shows an embodiment in which the heating coil is located within an inner cavity of the elongated housing of the heater, and the longitudinal length of the heating coil is substantially the same as the longitudinal length of the inner cavity. [Figure 8] This figure shows an embodiment in which a heating coil is positioned within an inner cavity of an elongated housing of the heater, the housing abuts against a heater mount having a protruding portion, and the protruding portion of the heater mount extends a short distance into the inner cavity. [Figure 9]This figure shows an embodiment in which the heating coil extends substantially along the entire length of the inner cavity of the elongated housing of the heater, a portion of the heating coil is positioned around a protruding portion of the heater mount, and the protruding portion of the heater mount extends only a short distance into the inner cavity. [Figure 10] This figure shows a method for manufacturing a heater for an aerosol supply device according to various embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0039] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components of those 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.

[0040] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0041] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping 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. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustible heating system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0042] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol 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.

[0043] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0044] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include a region for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating region, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0045] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-combustible 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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 may not contain substantially any plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco-free.

[0050] 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.

[0051] The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may include a continuous sheet of material, or may be a continuous sheet of material. The sheet may be in the form of packaging material, may be gathered to form a gathered sheet, or may be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The shredded sheet may include one or more strands or strips of the aerosol-generating material.

[0052] 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 can be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0053] The aerosol-generating film may 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 to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least a portion of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film.

[0054] An aerosol supply device can receive an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, “article” refers to a component that contains or is contained with an aerosol-generating material at the time of use, and optionally other components at the time of use, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material. The user can insert the article into or onto the aerosol supply device before it is heated to generate an aerosol, after which the user inhales the aerosol. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example, configured to be placed in or on a heater of a device sized to receive the article.

[0055] 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.

[0056] Consumables are articles containing or consisting of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are intended to be consumed during use by the user. 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 comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which generates heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol. The heater may comprise, for example, a flammable material, an electrically conductive material, or a susceptor.

[0057] 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.

[0058] A non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a modular assembly that includes both a reusable aerosol supply device and interchangeable aerosol products. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller (i.e., a control circuit). The power source may be an electrical power source, such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible 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.

[0059] Figure 1 shows an aerosol supply system 10 comprising an aerosol supply device 100 and a charging unit 101. The device is shown positioned within a cavity in the charging unit 101. The aerosol supply device 100 is configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol product (see Figure 3) that can be inserted into the aerosol supply device 100 during use. In the embodiment, the article forms part of the aerosol supply system 10.

[0060] The aerosol supply device 100 is an elongated structure extending along its longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device has a proximal end, which is closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when used by the user, and a distal end, which is furthest from the user when used, for inhaling the aerosol produced by the aerosol supply device 100. The proximal end may also be called the “mouthpiece end”. Thus, the aerosol supply device 100 also defines a proximal direction that is directed toward the user when used. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device 100 also defines a distal direction that is directed away from the user when used. The terms proximal and distal applied to the features of the device 100 are explained by referring to the relative positioning of such features relative to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply device 100 has an opening at its distal end leading to a heating chamber.

[0061] The aerosol supply device 100 may be removably inserted into the charging unit 101 for charging. The charging unit 101 has a cavity for receiving the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 may be inserted into the cavity through an opening. The cavity may also have a longitudinal opening. A portion of the aerosol supply device 100 may have a first side. 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 of the aerosol supply device 100. The first side of the aerosol supply device 100 may be received into a longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

[0062] In 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 cavity's cross-sectional profile may correspond to a longitudinal opening.

[0063] The charging unit 101 includes 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 may not have a lid at all.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Figure 2 shows a partial cross-sectional view 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 constitutes at least a portion of the article for heating.

[0066] A heating element 301 is provided in a part of the main housing 200, and the heating element 301 extends or protrudes into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 301 may have a base portion 301a that can be positioned in a recess provided in a part of the main body of the device 100. The heating element 301 stands upright in the heating chamber 201. The heating element 301 stands upright from its tip.

[0067] The heating element 301 comprises an elongated heating element in the form of a pin. In other embodiments, the heating element 301 comprises other elongated components such as a blade. The heating element 301 may be inserted into the distal end of the aerosol product 50 (see Figure 3) housed in the heating chamber 201 to heat the aerosol product 50 internally during use.

[0068] 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 may at least partially define 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 stands upright from the housing base 200b. The heating member 301 protrudes through the receptacle base 205b. The receptacle base 205b has an opening 206 through which the heating member 301 protrudes. In the embodiment, the heating member 301 is attached to the receptacle base 205b. The heating member 301 stands upright from the receptacle base 205b.

[0069] 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. The removal mechanism 204 is omitted in the embodiment. In the embodiment, the housing wall 200a defines the receptacle 205 at least partially. The removal mechanism 204 may be held in the main housing 200, so that at least a portion 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 (for example, surrounds) and defines the heating chamber 201 inside.

[0070] 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 features of the device 100 define the heating chamber 201, for example, the housing side wall 200a and the housing base 200b.

[0071] The base portion 207b has an opening 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 "held in" the main housing 200, it means that the removal mechanism 204 is engaged with the main housing 200 and cannot move distally any further.

[0072] The peripheral portion 207a and the base portion 207b together can define and enclose an article chamber for receiving the aerosol product 50, as shown in Figure 3. The article chamber has 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 into the heating chamber, the aerosol product 50 may contact 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 the aerosol product 50, which is in the form of a longitudinally extending cylindrical rod, such that the longitudinal axis of the article is parallel to (optionally aligned in a line with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 when received into the article chamber.

[0073] The article chamber may also be called the receiving portion. When the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200, during use, the article chamber of the removal mechanism 204 is positioned at least partially within the heating chamber 201. The heating member 301 may be positioned to protrude into the article chamber through an opening 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] In the embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 is completely removable from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 may be held in place 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 place by the main housing 200 by other means. For example, the removal mechanism 204 may be configured to be removably held in place by an interlocking fit with the main housing.

[0076] 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, where, 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., one) 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.

[0077] Figure 4 shows another aerosol supply system 40. System 40 comprises an integrated aerosol supply device 400 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, and the aerosol product 50 contains the aerosol-generating material. Device 400 can be used to heat the aerosol product 50 containing the aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol or other inhalable medium that can be inhaled by the user of device 400.

[0078] 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 may be fully or partially inserted into the device 400 for heating by the device 400.

[0079] The device 400 may include a user-operable control element 506, such as a button or switch, that operates the device 400 when operated, for example, when pressed. For example, a user may activate the device 400 by pressing the switch 406.

[0080] 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.

[0081] Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply system 40. Features described with reference to Figure 5 in the embodiment are applicable to the embodiment described above. The aerosol supply device 400 comprises a power supply 410, a controller 420, and a heating chamber 401, which removably receives the aerosol product 50.

[0082] 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 generating device, the power supply is aligned along a second longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber.

[0083] The heating element 301 comprises an elongated heating element in the form of a pin. In embodiments, the heating element 301 comprises other elongated components such as a blade. The heating element 301 is provided within the heating chamber. The heating element 301 described above with reference to the heating element 301 in Figure 5 and Figures 1 to 3 can each be to which the details described herein are applied. The heating element 301 extends or protrudes within the heating chamber 401.

[0084] The heating element 301 may be inserted into the distal end of the aerosol product 50 housed in the heating chamber 401 in order to heat the aerosol product 50 internally during use.

[0085] The aerosol supply devices 100 and 400 include a heating device 300. The heating device 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, configured to operate to heat the heating element 301.

[0086] The heating device 300 is a resistance heating device. 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 includes 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 element, and the resulting flow of current within the heating element acts as a heating component, heating the heating element by Joule heating. The resistance heating element includes a resistance material configured to generate heat when a suitable current passes through the resistance heating element, and the heating device includes electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistance material. In the embodiment, the heating element forms at least a portion of the resistance heating member itself. In the embodiment, the resistance heating element transfers heat to the heating member, for example, by conduction. By providing a resistance heating device, a compact configuration is possible. Resistance heating provides an efficient configuration.

[0087] Figure 6 shows a heating element 301 for use in the aerosol supply device described above. The heating element 301 acts as a heater or forms at least part of a heater. The heating device 300 includes the heating element 301. The heating element 301 includes an elongated housing 302 and a heating element 350. The elongated housing 302 is an elongated member that defines a longitudinal axis.

[0088] The elongated housing 302 is formed from a thermally conductive material such as aluminum. Other suitable materials such as stainless steel may be used. Alternatively, the housing may contain ceramic. 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.

[0089] The elongated housing 302 has a base end 303 and a free end 304. The base end 304 is attached to the device body. The mount 305 on the base end 303 supports the heating element 301. It will be understood that different mounting configurations, such as fixing, molding, and bonding including adhesive, may be used. The mount 305 may be a separate component or may be formed integrally with the elongated housing 302.

[0090] A groove 302a or a region with a reduced cross-sectional diameter can be provided in the elongated housing 302 toward the base end 303 of the elongated housing 302. As will be described in more detail below, the heating coil 351 is positioned within the inner gap 308 of the heating member 301. The groove 302a or region with a reduced cross-sectional diameter can be positioned, for example, along the length of the elongated housing 302 at a longitudinal position intermediate between a first longitudinal position corresponding to the longitudinal position of the end of the heating coil 351 closest to the base end 303 and a second longitudinal position corresponding to the longitudinal position where the base end of the elongated housing 302 is attached to, abuts against, or otherwise fixed to the mount 305.

[0091] It will be understood that the groove 302a or the area with a reduced cross-sectional diameter reduces, limits, or diminishes the effect of heat conduction from the body of the heating member 301 to the base end of the heating member 301 attached to the mount 305. As a result, the flow of heat or thermal energy from the heating member 301 to the mount 305 is reduced. Therefore, the groove 302a or the area with a reduced cross-sectional diameter can be considered to function as a thermal break zone that reduces thermal bleed from the heating member 301 to the mount 305 or more generally to the mounting point.

[0092] Further embodiments are conceivable in which the elongated housing may be provided with two or more grooves or regions with reduced cross-sectional diameters to act as a thermal barrier (not shown). In Figure 6, the groove 302a or region with reduced cross-sectional diameter is shown as comprising an annular recess, the annular recess having a rectangular cross-sectional profile, but other embodiments are conceivable in which the annular recess may have different cross-sectional profiles, such as a V-notch or a W-notch. Further embodiments are also conceivable in which one or more grooves or regions with reduced cross-sectional diameters may be provided on the inner surface of the elongated housing 302.

[0093] The elongated housing 302 comprises a housing body 306. The housing body 306 is cylindrical. The housing body 306 comprises a bore 307. The bore 307 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 a void. 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.

[0094] 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 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. Other shapes and configurations of the tip 311 may be provided; for example, the tip 311 may define a plane.

[0095] The heating element 350 extends within the heating member 301. The heating element 350 extends longitudinally within the elongated housing 302. The heating element 350 is housed within the inner gap 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 gap 308. In the embodiment, the heating element 350 extends to or beyond the open end 310.

[0096] 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 includes 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 electrical insulating configuration is provided, such as at least one of an electrical insulating member and an electrical insulating filler. In the embodiment, the electrical insulating member and the electrical insulating filler are thermally conductive to provide heat transfer from the heating element 350 to the elongated housing 302.

[0097] 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 device 300 comprises two or more heating coils.

[0098] The heating device 300 includes electrical connection paths. The electrical connection paths extend from each end of the heating element 350. The base electrical connection path 352 extends from the distal end of the heating element 350. The 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 352, 352 are formed integrally with the heating element 350, for example, as a single wire. In embodiments, a connector connects the electrical connection paths 352, 353 to the heating element 350. The heating coil 351 is formed of a resistive material such as a nickel / chromium alloy such as nichrome 80 / 20 (80% nickel, 20% chromium), an iron / chromium / aluminum alloy, or a copper / nickel alloy.

[0099] Figure 7 shows heaters for aerosol supply devices according to various embodiments. The heater comprises an elongated housing 302 having a longitudinal axis. The elongated housing 302 comprises a free end 304, a base end 303, and an inner cavity 308 extending in the longitudinal direction. The base end 303 defines the opening of the inner cavity 308. The heater further comprises a heating coil 351 disposed within the inner cavity 308 of the elongated housing 302. The heating coil 351 extends longitudinally within the inner cavity 308. The inner cavity 308 has a first longitudinal range L1, and the heating coil 351 has a second longitudinal range L2. The respective lengths L2 and L2 are shown in Figure 7. It will be understood that the dimensions can be applied to all embodiments described below. According to various embodiments, the first longitudinal range L1 is substantially the same as the second longitudinal range L2. For example, the heating coil 351 may have a length L2 that is at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the length or range L2 of the inner cavity 308.

[0100] If there is a large difference between the longitudinal ranges L1 and L2, for example, if the longitudinal range L2 of the heating coil is shorter than L1, energy may be lost to the system if energy is supplied to the portion not adjacent to the heating coil. If L1 is substantially the same as L2, the heater efficiency is improved because the essentially entire length of the heating element (i.e., the elongated housing surrounding the heating coil) is positioned adjacent to a portion of the heating coil. Heating efficiency is improved because heat is not lost to the portion of the housing not adjacent to the heating coil. For example, the elongated housing may surround the heating element, and substantially the entire longitudinal range of the elongated housing is heated by the heating coil. The heating coil may be a resistance heating coil.

[0101] As a result of this arrangement of the heating elements within the heater, efficient energy transfer can be achieved from the heating coils located within the heater's inner cavity to the heater's elongated housing. This more efficient energy transfer from the heating elements to the elongated housing can lead to a reduction in the time it takes to heat the elongated housing to the desired operating temperature, in other words, a faster start-up time for the heater and the entire device.

[0102] Furthermore, since substantially the entire longitudinal portion of the elongated housing is heated by the heating element, the elongated housing can be heated more consistently along its length.

[0103] According to various embodiments, the first longitudinal range L1 is substantially equal to the second longitudinal range L2, so that the entire longitudinal range of the elongated housing 302 is internally heated by the heating coil 351. When the heater is used to internally heat an aerosol product (not shown in Figure 7), according to various embodiments, the article may be internally heated along its entire length or a substantial portion of its length. This reduces heat loss and, consequently, improves the efficiency of the device.

[0104] The inner cavity 308 may be at least partially filled with insulating material. As a result, more efficient energy transfer from the heating element to the elongated housing can be achieved. This reduces the time required to heat the elongated housing to the desired operating temperature. A further advantage may be that the energy transfer from the heating element to the elongated housing is more consistent along the length of the heating member, resulting in more consistent heating of the heating member.

[0105] The insulating material may be a potting compound, an adhesive, a thermosetting plastic, or an epoxy resin. According to various embodiments, the potting compound may include an epoxy resin. For example, a two-component epoxy consisting of a polymer resin and a curing agent can be used, which, when mixed together, trigger a chemical reaction that crosslinks the chemical bonds in the polymer chain to produce a tough and rigid compound. Other embodiments may include a potting compound containing polyurethane ("PU"), such as a thermosetting plastic. This may include a two-component compound consisting of a base resin having an isocyanate curing agent. Other embodiments may include a potting compound containing silicone. For example, silicone rubber may be used that contains a synthetic polysiloxane polymer that transitions from a liquid to a solid state using an additive catalyst (such as platinum).

[0106] Thermal insulating materials, such as potting compounds, can prevent heat transfer to adjacent parts of the device. For example, the inner cavity 308 may contain a potting compound at the free end 304 to reduce heat transfer to the article at the free end 304 if undesirable. In embodiments, the potting compound may be contained at the base end 304 of the inner cavity 308 to reduce heat transfer at the base end 304. The potting compound can also prevent heat transfer to air pockets and the housing of the aerosol supply device, providing a safer and improved user experience.

[0107] The inner cavity 308 may be filled with a thermal and / or electrical insulating material, such as a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic, or epoxy resin. Placing this type of material around the heating coil can help avoid air pockets.

[0108] The elongated housing 302 may contain a metal or metal alloy such as aluminum. Other suitable materials such as stainless steel may be used. According to another embodiment, the housing 302 may contain ceramic. As shown in Figure 7, the heater may further include a heater mount 305 for securing the heater within the chamber of the aerosol supply device.

[0109] The inner cavity 308 has an opening 310 at the distal end of the heater. The heater mount 305 is formed as a skirt extending radially around the base end 303 of the housing 302, away from the opening 310. The mount 305 may be a separate component or may be formed integrally with the elongated housing 302. The mount 305 engages with the housing of the device 100 to secure the heater within the chamber of the aerosol supply device.

[0110] Figure 8 shows an embodiment in which a heating mount 800 is provided, comprising a base portion 810 and a protruding portion 820. The base portion 810 has an engaging surface 812 arranged to engage with the end of an elongated housing 302. The base portion is positioned at the base end 303 of the elongated housing 302. At least a portion of the base portion 810 includes an electrical insulator and / or thermal insulator. For example, the base portion may include a thermoplastic material.

[0111] The engaging surface 812 may have a first cross-sectional profile, and the end of the elongated housing 302 may have a second cross-sectional profile, the first and second cross-sectional profiles being substantially similar. This provides a properly secure fit between the heating mount 800 and the elongated housing 302, reducing energy loss in any gaps between the components.

[0112] The heater mount 800 shown in Figure 8 includes a protruding portion 820 that extends a distance d1 within the inner cavity 308 of the elongated housing 302. According to various embodiments, the distance d1 may be <5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1% of the axial length of the inner cavity.

[0113] The heating coil 351 extends longitudinally within the inner cavity 308. The inner cavity 308 has a first longitudinal range L1, and the heating coil 351 has a second longitudinal range L2. In embodiments, the distance d1 over which the protruding portion 820 extends within the inner cavity 308 may be the difference between the first longitudinal range L1 and the second longitudinal range L2. It will be understood that the longitudinal range L1 of the inner cavity 308 may be substantially equal to the longitudinal range L2 of the heating coil 351 and the distance d1 of the protruding portion 820. The heating coil 351 may have a length L2 that is at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the length or range L2 of the inner cavity 308, and it will also be understood that L1 and L2 are substantially equal. In this embodiment, the protruding portion 820 may abut against the distal end of the heating coil 351.

[0114] The base portion of the heater mount 800 may further comprise a flange or base plate 814 for securing the heater mount 800 within the chamber of the aerosol supply device. The flange or base plate 814 may be integrated with the base portion 820 of the heater mount. Alternatively, the flange or base plate 814 may comprise a separate component.

[0115] The heating mount 800 may have one or more openings, channels, or passages 816. As shown in Figure 8, one or more openings, channels, or passages 816 can pass through the heating mount 800 along its entire longitudinal length. In embodiments, the openings, channels, or passages 816 may be positioned substantially through the center of the heating mount 800.

[0116] One or more electrical connectors, cables, or wires (not shown) may be arranged to extend through one or more openings, channels, or passages 816 and connect to the heating coil 351. The width of one or more openings, channels, or passages 816 may be substantially the same as the width of one or more electrical connectors, cables, or wires arranged to extend through them.

[0117] According to various embodiments, the heater may include a first electrical connector, cable, or wire connected to a first end of a heating coil 351. The first end of the heating coil 351 is located near the free end 304 of the elongated housing 302. The heater may further include a second electrical connector, cable, or wire connected to a second end of the heating coil, the second end of the heating coil being located near the base end 303 of the elongated housing 302. According to various embodiments, the first electrical connector, cable, or wire extends through one or more openings, channels, or passages 816, and / or the second electrical connector, cable, or wire extends through one or more openings, channels, or passages 816.

[0118] One or more portions of the heater mount 800 contain, or at least partially contain, a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic, or epoxy resin.

[0119] The base end of the elongated housing may have one or more holes, slots, openings, or recesses. One or more holes, slots, openings, or recesses may be at least partially filled with a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic, or epoxy resin. As a result, heat transfer from the elongated housing 302 (which may be made of metal such as aluminum or stainless steel) to the housing of the aerosol supply device is reduced. Providing a metal elongated housing 302 results in efficient energy transfer to the article to be heated. The heating coil comprises a resistance heating coil.

[0120] Figure 9 shows an embodiment in which a heating mount 900 having a base portion 910 and a projection portion 920 is provided. The base portion 910 is positioned to secure the heater mount within the chamber of the aerosol supply device. The projection portion 920 may extend into the end of the heating coil 351 at the base end 303 of the elongated housing 302.

[0121] The protruding portion 920 extends for a certain distance within the inner cavity 308 of the elongated housing 302. The cross-sectional area of ​​the protruding portion 920 is sized to fit within the diameter of the heating coil 351. The entire protruding portion 920 may be surrounded by the heating coil 351.

[0122] The heating coil has a second longitudinal range L2. The longitudinal range L2 of the heating coil 351 is substantially equal to the first longitudinal range L1 of the inner cavity 308. A portion of the longitudinal range L2 of the heating coil 351 at the base end 303 may surround the protruding portion 920 of the mount 900.

[0123] A heating coil 351 having a longitudinal range L2 substantially equal to the longitudinal range L1 of the inner cavity 308 means that the coil is positioned adjacent to the housing along its entire longitudinal length. This means that heating is consistent along the entire length of the heater, reducing energy loss. In embodiments where a portion of the heating coil 351 surrounds the protruding portion 920 of the mount 900, the protection of the heater coil 351 when inserted into an article is enhanced.

[0124] The mount 900 may further include an engagement surface 912 positioned at its end that engages with the elongated housing 302. When the engagement surface 912 engages with the end of the elongated housing 302, there may be no gap between the elongated housing 302 and the mount 900. This reduces heat loss through any gaps that might otherwise exist.

[0125] In embodiments, the mount 900 may include one or more openings, channels, or passages 916 through which one or more electrical connectors, cables, or wires can extend. According to embodiments, one or more electrical connectors, cables, or wires may include a first electrical connector, cable, or wire connected to a first end of the heating coil 351. The first end of the heating coil 351 may be located near the free end 304 of the elongated housing 302. The first electrical connector, cable, or wire may pass through the center of the heating coil along its longitudinal axis and extend through one or more openings, channels, or passages 916.

[0126] It will be understood that the heaters described above in various embodiments, particularly in relation to Figures 6 to 9, may form part of an aerosol supply device configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material. Similarly, a system comprising the above-described aerosol supply device and an article containing an aerosol-generating material is disclosed.

[0127] Figure 10 shows a method for manufacturing a heater for an aerosol supply device according to various embodiments. The method includes a first step 1001 of providing an elongated housing having a longitudinal axis, a free end, a base end, and a longitudinally extending inner cavity, the base end defining the opening of the inner cavity. The method further includes a second step 1002 of positioning a heating coil within the housing such that the heating coil extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal range of the inner cavity is substantially the same as the longitudinal range of the heating coil.

[0128] The first end of the housing defines an opening that allows access to the inner cavity from the outside of the housing. The heating coil extends longitudinally and has a longitudinal axis. The method may include the step of positioning the heating coil within the inner cavity so that the heating coil does not come into contact with the housing.

[0129] The coil may be located within an inner cavity that extends in the longitudinal direction. The inner cavity may have a first longitudinal range, and the heating coil may have a second longitudinal range. The first and second longitudinal ranges may be substantially equal. For example, the heating coil may have a length of at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the length or range of the inner cavity.

[0130] The method may further include a third step 1003 of attaching a heater mount to the end of the housing, the heater mount comprising a base portion having an engagement surface positioned to engage with the end of the elongated housing, and a projection portion extending a distance d1 into the inner cavity of the elongated housing. In particular, the distance d1 may be <5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1% of the axial length of the inner cavity.

[0131] In embodiments, the method may include the step of mounting the mount such that the protruding portion extends into the inner cavity of the elongated housing and abuts against the distal end of the heating coil. In embodiments, the method may include the step of mounting the mount such that a portion of the heating coil surrounds a portion of the protruding portion.

[0132] According to various embodiments, the method may further include the step of forming at least a portion of the heater mount in situ from an insulating material. The insulating material may be a potting compound, an adhesive, a thermosetting plastic, or an epoxy resin. The insulating material reduces heat transfer between the heating mount and the surroundings at the base end of the heater.

[0133] In the embodiments described above, the heating device is a resistance heating device. Other types of heating devices, such as induction heating devices, can be used in the embodiments. The device configuration is generally as described above, so a detailed description is omitted.

[0134] An induction heating device comprises various components for heating an 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 device may comprise an induction element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a variable current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The variable current in the induction element generates a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field penetrates a susceptor (heating element) appropriately positioned relative to the induction element. In induction heating, compared to heating by conduction, for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, enabling rapid heating. Furthermore, no physical contact between the induction element and the susceptor is required, increasing the freedom of construction and application. In induction heating, heat is generated in the susceptor (heating element), while in resistance heating, heat is generated in the coil (heating element).

[0135] In the embodiment, the heating element of the aerosol supply system is not part of the aerosol supply device but 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 can allow current to flow through the resistive heating element.

[0136] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as 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, appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, 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. A heater for an aerosol supply device, An elongated housing having a longitudinal axis, comprising a free end, a base end, and an inner cavity extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the base end defines the opening of the inner cavity, The elongated housing comprises a heating coil disposed within the inner cavity and extending in the longitudinal direction within the inner cavity, A heater in which the inner cavity has a first longitudinal range, the heating coil has a second longitudinal range, and the first longitudinal range is substantially the same as the second longitudinal range.

2. The heater according to claim 1, wherein the inner cavity is at least partially filled with one or more of (i) a potting compound, (ii) an adhesive, (iii) a thermosetting plastic, or (iv) an epoxy resin.

3. The heater according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the elongated housing comprises metal or a metal alloy.

4. The heater according to claim 1, 2, or 3, further comprising a heater mount for securing the heater within the chamber of an aerosol supply device.

5. The heater according to claim 4, wherein the heater mount comprises a base portion having an engagement surface arranged to engage with one end of the elongated housing.

6. The heater according to claim 5, wherein at least a portion of the base portion comprises an electrical insulator and / or a heat insulating material.

7. The heater according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the engaging surface has a first cross-sectional profile, and one end of the elongated housing has a second cross-sectional profile, and the first and second cross-sectional profiles are substantially similar.

8. The heater according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the heater mount further comprises a protruding portion extending by a distance d1 within the inner cavity of the elongated housing.

9. The heater according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the base portion of the heater mount further comprises a flange or base plate for fixing the heater mount within the chamber of an aerosol supply device.

10. The aforementioned heater mount, One or more openings, channels or passages, The heater according to any one of claims 4 to 9, further comprising one or more electrical connectors, cables, or wires extending through one or more openings, channels, or passages and connected to the heating coil.

11. A first electrical connector, cable, or wire connected to the first end of the heating coil, wherein the first end of the heating coil is located near the free end of the elongated housing, The present invention further comprises a second electrical connector, cable, or wire connected to a second end of the heating coil, wherein the second end of the heating coil is located near the base end of the elongated housing, The first electrical connector, cable, or wire extends through one or more openings, channels, or passages, and / or the second electrical connector, cable, or wire extends through one or more openings, channels, or passages. The heater according to claim 10.

12. The heater according to any one of claims 4 to 11, wherein one or more portions of the heater mount contain a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic or epoxy resin, or are at least partially filled with a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic or epoxy resin.

13. The heater according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the base end of the elongated housing is provided with one or more holes, slots, openings or recesses, and the one or more holes, slots, openings or recesses are at least partially filled with a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic or epoxy resin.

14. The heater according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the heating coil comprises a resistance heating coil.

15. An aerosol supply device comprising a heater configured to heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material, as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. A system comprising the aerosol supply device according to claim 15 and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

17. A method for manufacturing a heater for an aerosol supply device, A step of providing an elongated housing having a longitudinal axis, a free end, a base end, and an internal cavity extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the base end defines the opening of the internal cavity, The process includes the step of positioning the heating coil within the housing such that the heating coil extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis, A method wherein the longitudinal range of the inner cavity is substantially the same as the longitudinal range of the heating coil.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the first end of the housing defines an opening that allows access to the inner cavity from the outside of the housing, the heating coil extends longitudinally and has a longitudinal axis, and the method includes the step of positioning the heating coil in the inner cavity such that the heating coil does not come into contact with the housing.

19. The method according to claim 17 or 18, further comprising the step of attaching a heater mount to one end of the housing, wherein the heater mount comprises a base portion having an engagement surface positioned to engage with one end of the elongated housing, and a protruding portion extending by a distance d1 into the inner cavity of the elongated housing.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the step of forming at least a portion of the heater mount in situ from a potting compound, adhesive, thermosetting plastic or epoxy resin.

21. A method for generating an aerosol, The steps of providing the aerosol supply device described in claim 15, A method comprising the step of inserting, at least partially, an article containing an aerosol-generating material into the aerosol supply device.

22. The method according to claim 21, further comprising the step of operating the aerosol supply device to generate an aerosol from the aerosol product.

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