Heater assembly with non-uniform heating profile

Abstract

The present invention relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol generator, the heater assembly comprising a cavity for receiving an article. The article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate portion comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity comprises a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for inserting an article, and a lateral cavity side wall for surrounding the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity. The heater assembly comprises a heating element, which is arranged around a partial area of ​​the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, only a portion of the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element, providing an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral side wall of the article when the heating element is activated. The present invention further relates to an aerosol generator. The present invention further relates to an aerosol-generating system. The present invention further relates to a method for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The present invention further relates to the use of an aerosol-generating system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and an aerosol forming substrate. The present disclosure further relates to a method for heating an article comprising an aerosol forming substrate. The present disclosure further relates to the use of an aerosol generating system.

Background Art

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable vapor. Such a device may heat an aerosol forming substrate contained in an aerosol generating article without burning the aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating article may have a rod shape for inserting the aerosol generating article into a heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. The heating element is typically disposed in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol forming substrate after the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device.

[0003] Ambient conditions can affect the quality of the generated aerosol. In particular, high humidity conditions can result in an aerosol forming substrate having high humidity. In particular, low humidity conditions can result in an aerosol forming substrate having low humidity. An aerosol forming substrate having high humidity can result in a "warm aerosol perception" effect, also known as the "hot aerosol effect", when the vaporized humidity in the aerosol forming substrate is inhaled during the first puff. In particular, in a humid environment, due to the high water content in the aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol generating article, undesired warm smoking may be generated initially.

[0004] It is desirable to have an aerosol generator with improved aerosol consistency. It is desirable to have an aerosol generator that prevents the "high-temperature aerosol effect". It is desirable to have an aerosol generator that reduces humidity during the initial extraction of the generated aerosol. It is desirable to have an aerosol generator that prevents the initial, undesirable warm extraction in a humid environment. [Overview of the project]

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a heater assembly for an aerosol generator is provided. The heater assembly may include a cavity for receiving an article. The article may include an aerosol-forming substrate portion containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity may include a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for insertion of the article. The cavity may include a lateral cavity side wall for surrounding the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity. The heater assembly may include a heating element. The heating element may be positioned around a partial region of the lateral cavity side wall such that only a portion of the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element during use, and provides an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral side wall of the article when the heating element is activated.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a heater assembly for an aerosol generator is provided. The heater assembly comprises a cavity for receiving an article. The article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate portion including an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity comprises a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for inserting the article. The cavity comprises a lateral cavity side wall for surrounding the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity. The heater assembly comprises a heating element. The heating element is positioned around a partial region of the lateral cavity side wall such that only a portion of the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element during use, and provides an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral side wall of the article when the heating element is activated.

[0007] The heater assembly of the present invention may provide an aerosol generator having improved aerosol consistency. The heater assembly of the present invention may provide an aerosol generator for reducing or preventing the "high-temperature aerosol effect". The heater assembly of the present invention may provide an aerosol generator in which humidity is reduced in the first generated aerosol fume. The heater assembly of the present invention may provide an aerosol generator for preventing undesirable warm initial fume in humid environments.

[0008] An initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of an article can lead to an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the entire aerosol-forming substrate within that portion. This can delay the rise in the operating temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate component. This may result in less moisture evaporating first and being carried to the user for initial fumes. The "high-temperature aerosol effect" can be reduced or avoided.

[0009] The heating element may be a resistance heating element.

[0010] The heating element may be configured to be continuously heated during multiple fume extractions. The heating element may be configured so that adjacent regions are continuously heated during multiple fume extractions.

[0011] The heater assembly may be configured to provide a temperature difference across the lateral sidewall of the article of 5 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius, preferably 10 degrees Celsius to 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably 20 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably 25 degrees Celsius to 150 degrees Celsius, and more preferably 30 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius.

[0012] The heater assembly may be configured to provide an initial temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of 5°C to 300°C, preferably 10°C to 250°C, more preferably 20°C to 200°C, more preferably 25°C to 150°C, and more preferably 30°C to 100°C.

[0013] The heating element may be positioned only around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, less than 95 percent, preferably less than 90 percent, more preferably less than 85 percent, more preferably less than 80 percent, more preferably less than 75 percent, more preferably less than 70 percent, more preferably less than 65 percent, more preferably less than 60 percent, more preferably less than 55 percent, and more preferably less than 50 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

[0014] The heating element may be positioned only around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, 15 to 95 percent, preferably 15 to 95 percent, more preferably 20 to 90 percent, more preferably 25 to 85 percent, and more preferably 50 to 85 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

[0015] The heating element may cover less than 95 percent, preferably less than 90 percent, more preferably less than 85 percent, more preferably less than 80 percent, more preferably less than 75 percent, more preferably less than 70 percent, more preferably less than 65 percent, more preferably less than 60 percent, more preferably less than 55 percent, and more preferably less than 50 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0016] The heating element may cover 15 percent to 95 percent, preferably 15 percent to 95 percent, more preferably 20 percent to 90 percent, more preferably 25 percent to 85 percent, and more preferably 50 percent to 85 percent of the total area of ​​the side walls of the lateral cavity.

[0017] The heating element may extend radially around 60 to 90 percent, preferably 65 to 85 percent, and more preferably 70 to 80 percent, of the perimeter of the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0018] The heating element may extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis along at least 80 percent, preferably at least 85 percent, more preferably at least 90 percent, and more preferably at least 95 percent, of the length of the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0019] The heating element may include a first heating section and a second heating section disposed on opposing sides of the lateral cavity sidewall. Each of the first and second heating sections may extend radially around 10 to 45 percent, preferably 15 to 40 percent, and more preferably 30 to 40 percent, of the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0020] The region of the lateral cavity sidewall not covered by the heating element may have a width of more than 2 millimeters in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0021] The sidewall of the lateral cavity may include a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0022] The lateral cavity sidewall may include opposing first and second principal boundaries. The first and second principal boundaries of the cavity may extend in a parallel relationship, facing each other. The first and second principal boundaries of the cavity may define the principal flow axis of the fluid flowing through the cavity along the longitudinal axis.

[0023] The heating element may include one or both of a first planar heating section disposed on a first main interface of the lateral cavity sidewall, and a second planar heating section disposed on a second main interface of the lateral cavity sidewall.

[0024] The first planar heating section and the second planar heating section may be provided at different longitudinal positions with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0025] The heating element may be disposed only on the first major boundary surface of the side cavity side wall such that the second major boundary surface does not include the heating element.

[0026] The side cavity side wall may include a metal tube, preferably a stainless steel tube. The heating element may be a flexible heating element provided on the outer wall of the metal tube.

[0027] A part of the side cavity side wall may be formed of a low thermal conductivity material. The low thermal conductivity material may be a polymer material, preferably polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

[0028] The heater assembly may be configured such that a part of the side cavity side wall formed of a low thermal conductivity material is not covered by the heating element.

[0029] The heating element may consist of two resistive heating tracks connected in parallel provided on an electrically insulated substrate.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising the heater assembly described herein.

[0031] The aerosol generating device may include a controller for controlling the supply of power to the heating element. The controller may be configured to supply power to the heating element such that a non-uniform temperature profile is provided across the side cavity side wall for the first puff, and a more uniform temperature profile is provided across the side cavity side wall for subsequent puffs, and the maximum temperature difference across the side cavity side wall of the non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the side cavity side wall of the more uniform temperature profile.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device described herein and an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0033] 1] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The method may include providing an aerosol generating system as described herein. The method may include providing a non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for initial fume extraction. The method may include providing a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for subsequent fume extraction. The maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the non-uniform temperature profile may exceed the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the more uniform temperature profile.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The method comprises providing an aerosol generating system as described herein. The method comprises providing a non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for initial fume extraction. The method comprises providing a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for subsequent fume extraction, wherein the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the more uniform temperature profile.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The method may include providing an aerosol generating system as described herein. The method may include heating only a first heating section of a heating element to provide a first non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of an article. The method may then include heating only a second heating section of the heating element to provide a second non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of an article. The method may subsequently include heating both the first and second heating sections of the heating element simultaneously to provide a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of an article. The maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the first and second non-uniform temperature profiles may exceed the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the more uniform temperature profile.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for heating an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The method comprises providing an aerosol generating system as described herein. The method comprises heating only a first heating section of a heating element to provide a first non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of an article. The method then comprises heating only a second heating section of the heating element to provide a second non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of an article. The method then comprises heating both the first and second heating sections of the heating element simultaneously to provide a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of an article, wherein the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the first and second non-uniform temperature profiles may exceed the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls of the more uniform temperature profile.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the use of the aerosol generating system described herein is provided for reducing the high-temperature vapor of the initial smoke extraction by providing a non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article after the heating element is activated.

[0038] 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.

[0039] An aerosol generator may have a mouth end through which, during use, the aerosol exits the aerosol generator and is delivered to the user. The mouth end may also be called the proximal end. During use, the user inhales the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generator to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator. Alternatively, the user may inhale directly 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 has a distal end opposite to the proximal or mouth end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generator may also be called the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generator may also be called the upstream end. Components of an aerosol generator, or parts of components, may be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal, downstream, or mouth end of the aerosol generator and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol generator.

[0040] 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.

[0041] The term “smoking” as used herein in relation to the present invention, relating to an apparatus, article, system, substrate, or other, 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 arranged 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 to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0042] 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, for example, 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 power supply to the heating element in accordance with the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0043] An aerosol generator may have a power source (typically a battery) within the main body of the aerosol generator. 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, a lithium iron phosphate battery, a lithium titanate battery, or a 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 about six minutes, or for a time period that is a multiple 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.

[0044] 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 a 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] The airflow channel may extend through the aerosol generator into 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 inhale the aerosol generating article directly. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece.

[0047] 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 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 coated with an insulating material, depending on the required energy transfer dynamics and external physicochemical properties, or vice versa.

[0048] As described, in any aspect of the present disclosure, the 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, where "internal" and "external" refer to the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the internal heating element may take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the internal heater may take the form of a casing or substrate having different conductive or electrically resistive metal tubes. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating needles or rods passing through the center of the aerosol-forming substrate. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, such as Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wires or heating plates. Optionally, the internal heating element may be placed in or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the electrically resistive heating element may be formed using a metal having a clear relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such exemplary devices, the metal may be formed as a track on a suitable insulating material such as ceramic material and then sandwiched between other insulating materials such as glass. The heater thus formed may be used during operation for both heating the heating element and monitoring its temperature.

[0049] The external heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the external heating element may take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate such as polyimide. The flexible heating foils can be shaped to fit around the periphery of the substrate receiving cavity. Alternatively, the external heating element may take the form of a metal grid, flexible printed circuit board, molded circuit component (MID), ceramic heater, flexible carbon fiber heater, or be formed on a substrate of suitable shape using a coating technique such as plasma deposition. The external heating element may also be formed using a metal having a clear relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such exemplary devices, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of suitable insulating material. The external heating element thus formed may be used during operation for both heating the external heating element and monitoring its temperature.

[0050] 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. 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, eddy currents are typically induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is magnetic, another effect that typically contributes to heating is generally called hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss arises primarily from the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor, because their magnetic orientations align with the alternating inductive magnetic fields. Another effect that contributes to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains expand or contract within the susceptor. Generally, all these changes occurring within a susceptor at or below the nanoscale generate heat within the susceptor and are therefore called "hysteresis loss." Therefore, if the susceptor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and eddy current generation will 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 may be conductive, 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 so that an aerosol is formed. Heat transfer may also be mainly by thermal conduction. Such heat transfer is best when the susceptor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0051] 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. Aerosol-generating articles may be disposable.

[0052] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate having the ability to release one or more volatile compounds capable of forming 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.

[0053] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain a tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco-flavored compounds released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain an aerosol-forming agent that facilitates the formation of high-density, stable aerosols. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents are glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0054] The aerosol generating substrate preferably comprises homogenized tobacco material, an aerosol forming agent, and water. Providing homogenized tobacco material may improve aerosol generation and the nicotine content and flavor profile of the aerosol generated during heating of the aerosol generating article. Specifically, the process of producing homogenized tobacco involves grinding the tobacco leaves, which allows for more effective release of nicotine and flavor during heating.

[0055] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating system" refers to a combination of an aerosol-forming substrate and an aerosol generating device. When the aerosol-forming substrate forms part of an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol generating system refers to a combination of the aerosol generating device and the aerosol-generating article. In an aerosol generating system, the aerosol-forming substrate and the aerosol generating device work together to generate an aerosol. [Examples]

[0056] 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.

[0057] Example 1: A heater assembly for an aerosol generator, A cavity for receiving an article, wherein the article includes an aerosol-forming substrate portion containing an aerosol-forming substrate, and the cavity includes a longitudinal axis extending between the distal cavity end wall and the proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and a lateral cavity side wall for surrounding the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity, Equipped with a heating element, The heating element is positioned around a partial area of ​​the side wall of the lateral cavity, thereby during use, A heater assembly in which only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of an article is covered by a heating element, providing an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating element is activated. Example 2: The heater assembly described in Example 1, wherein the heating element is a resistance heating element. Example 3: A heater assembly according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the heating element is configured to be continuously heated in multiple smoke intakes. Example 4: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide a temperature difference of 5 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius, preferably 10 degrees Celsius to 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably 20 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably 25 degrees Celsius to 150 degrees Celsius, and more preferably 30 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius across the lateral sidewall of an article. Example 5: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide an initial temperature difference of 5 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius, preferably 10 degrees Celsius to 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably 20 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably 25 degrees Celsius to 150 degrees Celsius, and more preferably 30 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius across the side walls of the lateral cavity. Example 6: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the heating element is disposed only around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, less than 95 percent, preferably less than 90 percent, more preferably less than 85 percent, more preferably less than 80 percent, more preferably less than 75 percent, more preferably less than 70 percent, more preferably less than 65 percent, more preferably less than 60 percent, more preferably less than 55 percent, and more preferably less than 50 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element. Example 7: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the heating element is disposed only around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, 15 percent to 95 percent, preferably 15 percent to 95 percent, more preferably 20 percent to 90 percent, more preferably 25 percent to 85 percent, and more preferably 50 percent to 85 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element. Example 8: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the heating element covers less than 95 percent, preferably less than 90 percent, more preferably less than 85 percent, more preferably less than 80 percent, more preferably less than 75 percent, more preferably less than 70 percent, more preferably less than 65 percent, more preferably less than 60 percent, more preferably less than 55 percent, and more preferably less than 50 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral cavity side wall. Example 9: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the heating element covers 15 percent to 95 percent, preferably 15 percent to 95 percent, more preferably 20 percent to 90 percent, more preferably 25 percent to 85 percent, and more preferably 50 percent to 85 percent of the total area of ​​the side wall of the lateral cavity. Example 10: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the heating element extends radially around 60 to 90 percent, preferably 65 to 85 percent, more preferably 70 to 80 percent, of the lateral cavity sidewall. Example 11: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the heating element extends along at least 80 percent, preferably at least 85 percent, more preferably at least 90 percent, and more preferably at least 95 percent, of the length of the lateral cavity side wall in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. Example 12: The heater assembly according to Example 11, wherein the heating element includes a first heating section and a second heating section disposed on opposing sides of the lateral cavity sidewall, each of which extends radially around 10 to 45 percent, preferably 15 to 40 percent, more preferably 30 to 40 percent, of the lateral cavity sidewall. Example 13: A heater assembly according to Example 11 or Example 12, wherein the region of the lateral cavity side wall not covered by the heating element has a width of more than 2 millimeters in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Example 14: A heater assembly according to any of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall includes a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Example 15: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall includes opposing first and second main boundary surfaces, and the first and second main boundary surfaces of the cavity face each other in a parallel relationship, defining the main flow axis of the fluid flowing through the cavity along the longitudinal axis. Example 16: The heater assembly according to Example 15, wherein the heating element includes a first planar heating section disposed on a first main interface of the side wall of the lateral cavity and a second planar heating section disposed on a second main interface of the side wall of the lateral cavity. Example 17: The heater assembly according to Example 16, wherein the first planar heating section and the second planar heating section are provided at different longitudinal positions with respect to the longitudinal axis. Example 18: The heater assembly according to Example 15, wherein the heating element is disposed only on the first main interface of the lateral cavity side wall, and the second main interface does not contain the heating element. Example 19: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall includes a metal tube, and the heating element is a flexible heating element provided on the outer wall of the metal tube, preferably the metal tube is a stainless steel tube. Example 20: A heater assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein a portion of the lateral cavity sidewall is formed from a low thermal conductivity material, preferably a polymer material, more preferably polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Example 21: The heater assembly according to Example 20, wherein a portion of the sidewall of the lateral cavity, formed from a low thermal conductivity material, is not covered by the heating element. Example 22: A heater assembly according to any of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the heating element consists of two parallel-connected resistive heating tracks provided on an electrically insulated substrate. Example 23: An aerosol generator comprising a heater assembly described in any of Examples 1 to 22. Example 24: A controller is provided for controlling the power supply to the heating element, and the controller is configured to supply power to the heating element such that a non-uniform temperature profile is provided across the lateral cavity sidewall for initial smoke extraction, and a more uniform temperature profile is provided across the lateral cavity sidewall for subsequent smoke extraction. The aerosol generator according to Example 23, wherein the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls with a non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewalls with a more uniform temperature profile. Example 25: An aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating apparatus described in Example 23 or Example 24, and an article containing an aerosol forming substrate. Example 26: A method for heating an article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, To provide the aerosol generation system described in Example 25, To provide a non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for initial smoke extraction, This includes providing a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for subsequent fumes extraction, A method for ensuring that the maximum temperature difference across the sidewalls of a lateral cavity with a non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the sidewalls of a lateral cavity with a more uniform temperature profile. Example 27: A method for heating an article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, To provide the aerosol generation system described in Example 25, To heat only the first heating section of the heating element to provide a first non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article, and then, To heat only the second heating section of the heating element to provide a second non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article, and then, This includes simultaneously heating both the first and second heating sections of a heating element to provide a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of an article, A method wherein the maximum temperature difference across the sidewalls of the lateral cavity of the first non-uniform temperature profile and the second non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the sidewalls of the lateral cavity of the more uniform temperature profile. Example 28: Use of the aerosol generating system described in Example 25 to reduce the high-temperature vapor of the initial fumes by providing a non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article after the heating element is activated.

[0058] Features described in relation to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0059] The present invention will be further explained with reference to the following attached drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0060] [Figure 1] Figures 1a and 1b show the same heater assembly. [Figure 2] Figures 2a and 2c show the heater assembly. [Figure 3] Figures 3a to 3d show the heating arrangement for the heater assembly. [Figure 4] Figures 4a to 4d show the heater assembly. [Figure 5] Figures 5a to 5c show the heater assembly. [Figure 6] Figures 6a to 6c show the heater assembly. [Figure 7] Figures 7a to 7c show the heater assembly. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0061] Figure 1a shows a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator. The heater assembly includes a cavity for receiving an article. The article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate portion 10 including an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity includes a longitudinal axis 12 extending between the distal cavity end wall and the proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and lateral cavity sidewalls 14 for surrounding the lateral sidewalls of the aerosol-forming substrate portion 10 of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity. The longitudinal axis 12 extends perpendicular to the cross-section in Figure 1a. The heater assembly includes a heating element 16. In the embodiment of Figure 1a, the heating element 16 extends radially around approximately 70 to 80 percent of the perimeter of the lateral cavity sidewalls 14. Therefore, the heating element 16 is positioned around a partial area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall 14 such that, during use, only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion 10 of the article is covered by the heating element 16, providing an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating element 16 is activated.

[0062] The lateral cavity sidewall 14 may be provided by a steel pipe. The heating element 16 may be formed from one or more conductive tracks on an electrically insulated flexible substrate.

[0063] Figure 1b shows a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator. Unlike the heater assembly in Figure 1a, the heater assembly in Figure 1b includes a heating element 16 comprising a first heating section 16a and a second heating section 16b, which are positioned on opposing sides of the lateral cavity sidewall 14, with each of the first and second heating sections 16b extending radially around 30 to 40 percent of the lateral cavity sidewall 14. The area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall 14 not covered by the heating elements 16a, 16b has a width "d" of more than 2 millimeters in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12. In the cross-sectional view of Figure 1b, the first and second heating sections 16a and 16b form two crescent shapes. Due to the gap not covered by the heating elements 16a, 16b, an initial non-uniform temperature profile is provided across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating sections 16a, 16b are activated.

[0064] In an optional embodiment, the heater assembly shown in Figure 1b may operate as follows: In the first stage, the first heating section 16a is activated to heat the corresponding upper portion of the aerosol-forming substrate within the aerosol-forming substrate portion 10. This creates a downward temperature gradient, extracting moisture only from the upper portion of the substrate. Subsequently, the second heating section 16b is heated, and the process is repeated symmetrically to create an upward temperature gradient of the substrate, this time extracting moisture from the lower portion of the substrate. Such a heating configuration may allow for more gradual extraction of moisture. Finally, after most of the moisture has been gradually removed, the substrate may be heated more uniformly by activating both the first heating section 16a and the second heating section 16b simultaneously.

[0065] Figures 2a and 2b show cross-sectional views of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator. The heater assembly includes a cavity for receiving an article having an aerosol-forming substrate portion 10. The cavity includes a longitudinal axis 12 extending between the distal cavity end wall and the proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and lateral cavity side walls 14 for surrounding the lateral side walls of the aerosol-forming substrate portion 10 of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity.

[0066] The lateral cavity sidewall 14 includes a tube made of a combination of thermally conductive materials, such as stainless steel, that provides the heating elements 16, 16a, and 16b, and a non-thermally conductive material 19, such as PEEK, that forms the rest of the lateral cavity sidewall 14. The tube can be easily obtained through an overmolding process.

[0067] The portion of the substrate in contact with the PEEK region 19 is not directly heated by the heaters 16, 16a, and 16b, and provides an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article when the heating elements 16, 16a, and 16b are activated.

[0068] Figures 2a and 2b illustrate possible embodiments in which the tube is fabricated by a combination of heating materials forming a heating element 16 and PEEK 19 in two different configurations. Figure 2a shows partial covering with a single segment heating element 16, and Figure 2b shows two crescent designs having two heating sections 16a, 16b.

[0069] Figure 2c shows a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly for the aerosol generator. The heating element 16 extends radially around approximately 60 to 70 percent of the perimeter of the lateral cavity sidewall 14.

[0070] Therefore, the heating element 16 is positioned around a partial area of ​​the lateral cavity sidewall 14 such that, during use, only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion 10 of the article is covered by the heating element 16, providing an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article when the heating element 16 is activated. The heating element 16 is provided on an insulating substrate 18. The lateral cavity sidewall 14 may be provided by a steel pipe. The heating element 16 may be formed from one or more conductive tracks on the insulating substrate 18, preferably two conductive tracks connected in parallel. The insulating substrate 18 may be a polyimide layer.

[0071] Figures 3a to 3d show a heating arrangement for a heater assembly. The heating arrangement includes a heating element 16 consisting of two parallel-connected resistive heating tracks 17a, 17b provided on an electrically insulated substrate 18. The heating element 16 is highlighted in Figure 3b. The electrically insulated substrate 18 is highlighted in Figure 3c. The heating arrangement may further include a connector track 20. The connector track may provide an electrical connector to a temperature sensor. The connector track 20 is highlighted in Figure 3d.

[0072] Figures 4a to 4d show heater assemblies comprising heating elements 16 provided in the form of one or more rings, which are circumferentially arranged around the lateral cavity sidewall 14 and then surround the aerosol-forming substrate portion 10 when an article is inserted into the cavity.

[0073] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4a, the heating element includes a monolithic heating element 16. The heater assembly is configured such that, upon activation of the heating element 16, a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate surrounded by the monolithic heating element 16 is heated first. This provides an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article as the heating element is activated. The thermal mass and thermal conductivity of the lateral cavity sidewalls 14 are such that, upon activation of the heating element 16, the portion of the cavity sidewalls 14 surrounded by the monolithic heating element 16 is first heated to the target temperature, and then, by heat conduction through the lateral cavity sidewalls 14, the proximal and distal components of the lateral cavity sidewalls 14 surrounding the portion of the heating element 16 are heated to the target temperature after the heating element 16 has been activated for a specific time interval, for example, 5 to 25 seconds. The lateral cavity sidewalls 14 are preferably formed from stainless steel tubing.

[0074] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4b, the heating element includes three heating sections 16a, 16b, and 16c provided at different longitudinal positions with respect to the longitudinal axis 12. The heater assembly is configured such that when the heating sections 16a, 16b, and 16c are activated, a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate surrounded by the monolithic heating sections 16a, 16b, and 16c is heated first, providing an initial non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article.

[0075] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4c, the heating element includes two heating sections 16a and 16b having different sizes and being provided at different longitudinal positions with respect to the longitudinal axis 12. For example, heating section 16a may be started from the beginning while heating section 16b is not started. As high-temperature vapor is gradually discharged from the aerosol-forming substrate, the progressive heating section 16b is also started to ensure a uniform temperature distribution along the lateral cavity sidewall 14.

[0076] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4d, the heating element includes four heating sections 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, which are provided at different longitudinal positions with respect to the longitudinal axis 12 and optionally have different sizes. For example, heating sections 16a and 16c may be activated from the start, while heating sections 16b and 16d are not activated. As high-temperature vapor is gradually discharged from the aerosol-forming substrate, the progressive heating sections 16b and 16d are also activated to ensure a uniform temperature distribution along the lateral cavity sidewall 14.

[0077] Figures 5a and 5c show the heater assembly. In the embodiment of Figure 5a, the heating element includes six heating sections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f, which are provided at different longitudinal positions with respect to the longitudinal axis 12. For example, heating sections 16a, 16c, and 16e may be started from the start, while heating sections 16b, 16d, and 16f are not started.

[0078] From a manufacturing standpoint, the heater configuration shown in Figure 5a can be obtained by connecting the heating strips of each heater section 16a to 16f to a common vertical connector 22, as shown in Figure 5b, or alternatively, by wrapping the heating strips around the side walls of the lateral cavities (not shown in Figure 5c), as shown in Figure 5c.

[0079] Figures 6a-6c and 7a-7c show cross-sectional views of the heater assembly, in perspective view (left side) and side view (right side).

[0080] The heater assemblies in Figures 6 and 7 are configured to receive a flat article having a rectangular cross-section of the aerosol-forming substrate portion 10 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12. The lateral cavity sidewall 14 includes two opposing main interface surfaces 14a, 14b. The two opposing main interface surfaces 14a, 14b may be made of stainless steel plate and are partially covered by the heating element 16. The heating element 16 may include one or more conductive tracks. The heating element 16 may include several heating sections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, as shown in the heater assemblies in Figures 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, and 7c.

[0081] In the embodiments of Figures 6 and 7, the heating element partially covers only two opposing main interface surfaces 14a and 14b. In this way, the portions of the two opposing main interface surfaces 14a and 14b that do not have the heating element on top experience a heating delay compared to the portions with the heating element, as described with reference to the above embodiments in which the heater has a cylindrical configuration. An initial non-uniform temperature profile may be provided across the lateral sidewalls of the article as the heating element is activated for initial fume extraction.

Claims

1. an aerosol generator equipped with a heater assembly for aerosol generator, A cavity for receiving an article, wherein the article includes an aerosol-forming substrate portion containing an aerosol-forming substrate, and the cavity includes a longitudinal axis extending between a distal cavity end wall and a proximal cavity opening for inserting the article, and a lateral cavity side wall for surrounding the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article when the article is inserted into the cavity, Equipped with a heating element, The heating element is arranged around a partial area of ​​the side wall of the lateral cavity, thereby during use, Only a portion of the lateral sidewall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element, and when the heating element is activated, an initial non-uniform temperature profile is provided across the lateral sidewall of the article. The aerosol generator comprises a controller for controlling the power supply to the heating element, the controller configured to supply power to the heating element such that a non-uniform temperature profile is provided across the lateral cavity sidewall for initial smoke extraction, and a more uniform temperature profile is provided across the lateral cavity sidewall for subsequent smoke extraction. An aerosol generator wherein the maximum temperature difference across the sidewall of the lateral cavity in the non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the sidewall of the lateral cavity in the more uniform temperature profile.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is a resistance heating element.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is configured to be continuously heated in a plurality of smoke-extracting devices.

4. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide a temperature difference of 5 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius, preferably 10 degrees Celsius to 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably 20 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably 25 degrees Celsius to 150 degrees Celsius, and more preferably 30 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius across the lateral side wall of the article.

5. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the heater assembly is configured to provide an initial temperature difference of 5 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius, preferably 10 degrees Celsius to 250 degrees Celsius, more preferably 20 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius, more preferably 25 degrees Celsius to 150 degrees Celsius, and more preferably 30 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius across the side walls of the lateral cavity.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is disposed only around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, less than 95 percent, preferably less than 90 percent, more preferably less than 85 percent, more preferably less than 80 percent, more preferably less than 75 percent, more preferably less than 70 percent, more preferably less than 65 percent, more preferably less than 60 percent, more preferably less than 55 percent, and more preferably less than 50 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral side wall of the aerosol forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

7. The heater assembly according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is disposed only around a portion of the lateral cavity side wall such that, during use, 15 percent to 95 percent, preferably 15 percent to 95 percent, more preferably 20 percent to 90 percent, more preferably 25 percent to 85 percent, and more preferably 50 percent to 85 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral side wall of the aerosol-forming substrate portion of the article is covered by the heating element.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heating element covers less than 95 percent, preferably less than 90 percent, more preferably less than 85 percent, more preferably less than 80 percent, more preferably less than 75 percent, more preferably less than 70 percent, more preferably less than 65 percent, more preferably less than 60 percent, more preferably less than 55 percent, and more preferably less than 50 percent of the total area of ​​the lateral cavity side wall.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heating element covers 15 percent to 95 percent, preferably 15 percent to 95 percent, more preferably 20 percent to 90 percent, more preferably 25 percent to 85 percent, and more preferably 50 percent to 85 percent of the total area of ​​the side wall of the lateral cavity.

10. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the heating element extends radially around 60 to 90 percent, preferably 65 to 85 percent, more preferably 70 to 80 percent, of the lateral cavity side wall.

11. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the heating element extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis along at least 80 percent, preferably at least 85 percent, more preferably at least 90 percent, and more preferably at least 95 percent of the length of the lateral cavity side wall.

12. The aerosol generator according to claim 11, wherein the heating element includes a first heating section and a second heating section disposed on opposing sides of the lateral cavity sidewall, and each of the first heating section and the second heating section extends radially around 10 to 45 percent, preferably 15 to 40 percent, more preferably 30 to 40 percent, of the lateral cavity sidewall.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the region of the lateral cavity side wall not covered by the heating element has a width of more than 2 millimeters in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the lateral cavity side wall includes a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

15. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the lateral cavity sidewall includes opposing first and second main boundary surfaces, the first and second main boundary surfaces of the cavity face each other and extend in a parallel relationship, defining the main flow axis of the fluid flowing through the cavity along the longitudinal axis.

16. The aerosol generator according to claim 15, wherein the heating element includes a first planar heating section disposed on the first main boundary surface of the lateral cavity side wall and a second planar heating section disposed on the second main boundary surface of the lateral cavity side wall.

17. The heater assembly according to claim 16, wherein the first planar heating section and the second planar heating section are provided at different longitudinal axis positions with respect to the longitudinal axis.

18. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the heating element is disposed only on the first main interface surface of the lateral cavity side wall, and the second main interface surface does not include the heating element.

19. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the lateral cavity side wall includes a metal tube, the heating element is a flexible heating element provided on the outer wall of the metal tube, and preferably the metal tube is a stainless steel tube.

20. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the side wall of the lateral cavity is formed from a low thermal conductivity material, preferably a polymer material, and more preferably polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

21. The heater assembly according to claim 20, wherein the portion of the lateral cavity side wall formed from the low thermal conductivity material is not covered by the heating element.

22. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the heating element comprises two parallel-connected resistance heating tracks provided on an electrically insulated substrate.

23. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, and an article containing an aerosol forming substrate.

24. A method for heating an article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, To provide the aerosol generating system described in claim 23, To provide a non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for initial smoke extraction, This includes providing a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article for subsequent smoke extraction, A method wherein the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewall of the non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewall of the more uniform temperature profile.

25. A method for heating an article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, To provide the aerosol generating system described in claim 23, To heat only the first heating section of the heating element to provide a first non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article, and thereafter, To heat only the second heating section of the heating element to provide a second non-uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewall of the article, and thereafter, This includes simultaneously heating both the first heating section and the second heating section of the heating element to provide a more uniform temperature profile across the lateral sidewalls of the article, A method wherein the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewall of each of the first non-uniform temperature profile and the second non-uniform temperature profile exceeds the maximum temperature difference across the lateral cavity sidewall of the more uniform temperature profile.

26. Use of the aerosol generating system according to claim 23 for reducing the high-temperature vapor of the initial smoke extraction by a non-uniform temperature profile provided across the lateral sidewall of the article after the activation of the heating element.

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