System for generating aerosols

Abstract

A system for generating an aerosol and a method for using the system for generating an aerosol are also provided. A system includes an apparatus 1 for generating an aerosol and an article 3 for forming an aerosol. The apparatus 1 includes a heating chamber 5 for receiving the article for forming an aerosol, and an induction coil for generating a magnetic field to heat the article for forming an aerosol 3 received in the heating chamber 5. The heating chamber 5 includes first and second regions. The induction coil is arranged to, in use, selectively generate a magnetic field to heat only the first region of the heating chamber or to induce heating in only the first region.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to systems for generating aerosols and methods of use thereof.

[0002] Devices for generating aerosols that heat, rather than burn, an aerosol-forming substrate have been previously proposed in the art. For example, heated smoking devices have been proposed that heat, rather than burn, tobacco. One purpose of such smoking devices is to reduce the production of undesirable smoke constituents of the type produced by the combustion and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco in conventional cigarettes. These heated smoking devices are commonly known as "heat but not burn" devices.

[0003] The above-mentioned type of heated smoking device generally comprises a heating chamber, e.g. defined by a heating surface, into which an article for forming an aerosol is inserted prior to use. The article for forming an aerosol typically contains an aerosol-forming substrate that is subsequently heated by a heater in the device to generate an aerosol. In this way, when the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the article is consumed, the heated smoking device allows the article to be replaced, thereby constituting a reusable device, and the article comprises a "consumable" product. The article for forming an aerosol is usually shaped and sized to mimic a conventional cigarette. Thus, the article and the heating chamber in the heated smoking device that is inserted or can be inserted therein have a generally cylindrical shape. Typically, the diameter of the article is 5-10 mm, e.g. about 7.2 mm.

[0004] The above-mentioned type of article for forming an aerosol typically has a wrapper or carrier layer in which the aerosol-forming substrate is held. A filter material is generally provided at one or both ends of the article, serving as a plug to hold the aerosol-forming substrate within the article and also to filter the aerosol generated by the heated smoking device during use. Additionally, an aerosol cooling element (e.g., formed from an assembly of polylactic acid sheets) may be located within the article between the aerosol-forming substrate and the filter at one end of the article. A support element (e.g., formed from a hollow acetate tube) may additionally be located between the aerosol-forming substrate and the aerosol cooling element.

[0005] In use, a user inserts an article between the heated surfaces of the heating chamber of the heated smoking device. The user then draws air through the free end of the article (the free end containing the filter material). A heater in the heated smoking device is activated to transfer thermal energy to the article for forming an aerosol, thereby releasing volatile compounds from the aerosol-forming substrate. Air is drawn into the heated smoking device by the user inhaling the article for forming an aerosol. The air passes through at least a portion of the device, then flows along the length of the article into the article, passes through the aerosol-forming substrate, and is drawn therefrom together with the released volatile compounds. The mixture of the air flow and the volatile compounds then passes through a cooling segment, where the volatile compounds are cooled and condensed into an aerosol. The aerosol then passes through the filter material before being drawn into the lungs of the user. The wrapper or carrier layer acts as a straightener during this process, helping to direct the air flow so that the air flow passes through the article and along the article to the user.

[0006] To heat the aerosol-forming substrate rather than burning it, the aerosol-forming substrate needs to be heated to a relatively low temperature. Thus, a relatively small amount of heat energy needs to be transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate. Saving energy beneficially reduces the cost of operating the heated smoking device. Nevertheless, it would be beneficial to still further reduce the amount of heat energy required to volatilize the compound from the article for forming the aerosol.

[0007] Furthermore, heating rather than burning the aerosol-forming substrate results in more efficient use of the substrate, thereby requiring less substrate, resulting in cost savings. However, in prior art articles directed to "heat but not burn" devices, a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate remains non-volatilized after use, thereby providing waste of material.

[0008] As will be appreciated, articles for forming aerosols can be provided in different configurations (e.g., shapes and / or sizes), can have different types and / or forms of aerosol-forming substrates, and / or can be in different states (e.g., new, used, or partially used). Articles for forming aerosols of different types, configurations, and / or states can respond differently to heating, both at different temperatures, different durations of applied temperature, and / or different amounts of transferred heat energy. Thus, the user experience when heating such different articles in the heating chamber of a heated smoking device can be variable and, indeed, can be suboptimal or even uncomfortable for the user, depending on the type, configuration, and / or state of the article used.

[0009] As used herein, the term "and / or" is used to refer to either one of two stated alternatives, or both of the two stated alternatives. For example, A and / or B is used to refer to either one of A and B, or both A and B. Additionally, the phrase "at least one of A and B" falls within the definition of "A and / or B."

[0010] It would be desirable to provide an apparatus for generating an aerosol that is improved over prior art apparatus for generating an aerosol. It would be desirable to provide an apparatus for generating an aerosol that alleviates one or more of the problems identified above. It would be desirable to provide an apparatus for generating an aerosol that provides an improved user experience when heating various types, configurations, and / or conditions of articles for forming an aerosol. It would also be desirable to provide an apparatus for generating an aerosol that requires a relatively small amount of energy to generate an aerosol from an article for forming an aerosol when received in a heating chamber of the apparatus.

[0011] An apparatus for generating an aerosol is provided. The apparatus may include a heating chamber for receiving an article for forming an aerosol. The apparatus may include an induction coil for generating a magnetic field to heat the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. The apparatus may include an electrical circuit configured to monitor performance of the induction coil.

[0012] According to the present invention there is provided a system for generating an aerosol. The system comprises an apparatus for generating an aerosol and an article for forming an aerosol. The apparatus comprises a heating chamber for receiving the article for forming an aerosol and an induction coil for generating a magnetic field for heating the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. The heating chamber comprises a first and a second region. The induction coil is arranged to selectively generate a magnetic field, in use, to heat only the first region of the heating chamber or to induce heating in only the first region.

[0013] The induction coil may be arranged, in use, to selectively generate a magnetic field to heat only a first region of the heating chamber, and to induce heating in only the first region.

[0014] According to the present invention, there is provided a system for generating an aerosol. The system may comprise an apparatus for generating an aerosol and an article for forming an aerosol. The apparatus may comprise a heating chamber for receiving the article for forming an aerosol, and an induction coil for generating a varying magnetic field for heating the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. The heating chamber may comprise a first and a second region. The induction coil may be arranged to selectively generate a varying magnetic field, in use, to heat only the first region of the heating chamber, or to induce heating in only the first region.

[0015] Advantageously, an apparatus for generating an aerosol is provided that generates aerosols relatively more efficiently than with prior art apparatus by monitoring the performance of the induction coil, which may allow relatively more precise control of the duration and / or amount of thermal energy delivered to an article received within a heating chamber of the apparatus to form an aerosol.

[0016] Furthermore, the supply of thermal energy can be more easily tailored to the type, configuration, and / or condition of the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber of the device. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the performance of the induction coil varies depending on the type, configuration, and / or condition of the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. For example, the transfer of energy from the induction coil of the device to the susceptor of the article can have the greatest efficiency when the operating frequency of the induction coil is equal to or greater than the resonant frequency of the induction coil associated with the susceptor. When the operating frequency of the induction coil is equal to or greater than the resonant frequency of the induction coil and the susceptor, the power transfer between them is relatively greater. Thus, by adjusting the operating frequency of the induction coil to equal to or greater than the resonant frequency, the heating of the article, and thus the generation of aerosol, can be enhanced. Furthermore, by monitoring the performance of the induction coil, it may be possible to determine whether the operating frequency has reached the resonant frequency. Thus, the characteristics of the article received in the heating chamber of the device (e.g., the resonant frequency of the susceptor associated with the induction coil) can be determined, which can relatively improve the user experience of using the device to generate aerosol.

[0017] "Susceptor" refers to an element that heats when subjected to a fluctuating or alternating magnetic field. Typically, the susceptor is electrically conductive and the heating of the susceptor is the result of eddy currents induced in the susceptor or hysteresis losses. Both hysteresis losses and eddy currents may occur in the susceptor. Susceptors can include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, and any other electrically conductive element. Preferably, the susceptor element is a ferrite element. The material and geometry of the susceptor can be selected to provide the desired electrical resistance and heat generation.

[0018] In the operation of an induction heater, high frequency alternating current is passed through one or more induction coils to generate one or more corresponding varying or alternating magnetic fields that induce a voltage in the susceptor of the article. The induced voltage causes a current to flow in the susceptor, which in turn causes Joule heating of the susceptor, which in turn heats the aerosol-forming substrate. If the susceptor is ferromagnetic, hysteresis losses in the susceptor can also generate heat.

[0019] The term "high frequency" refers to frequencies in the range of about 500 kilohertz (KHz) to about 30 megahertz (MHz) (including the range of 500 KHz to 30 MHz), particularly about 1 megahertz (MHz) to about 10 MHz (including the range of 1 MHz to 10 MHz), and even more particularly about 5 megahertz (MHz) to about 7 megahertz (MHz) (including the range of 5 MHz to 7 MHz).

[0020] Throughout this disclosure, the term "magnetic field" may refer to a changing or alternating magnetic field.

[0021] Throughout this disclosure, the term "current" may refer to alternating current.

[0022] As used herein, the phrase "aerosol-forming substrate" is used to describe a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol upon heating. The aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrates described herein may or may not be visible to the human eye. The aerosol-forming substrate may include a solid, a fluid, or a mixture of a solid and a fluid substrate. If the aerosol-forming substrate is a fluid, it is advantageously held within a matrix and / or by a cover layer at least prior to receiving the aerosol-forming substrate in the heating chamber.

[0023] As used herein, the term "aerosol" is used to describe a suspension of relatively small particles in a fluid medium.

[0024] As used herein, the phrase "heating chamber" is used to mean a space within which an article for forming an aerosol, including an aerosol-forming substrate, is received or is receivable and is heated or is heatable. The first and second major bounding surfaces at least partially define a perimeter of the heating chamber.

[0025] As used herein, the phrase "monitoring the performance of an induction coil" is used to mean that one or more characteristics of the induction coil are monitored directly or indirectly. For example, the current flowing into, through, and / or from the induction coil may be monitored directly and / or indirectly. Additionally or alternatively, characteristics of one or more additional elements (e.g., the heating chamber and / or an article received therein) may be monitored, such that the performance of the induction coil may be monitored indirectly.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heating chamber comprises a first and a second region, and the induction coil may be arranged to selectively generate a magnetic field, in use, to heat and / or induce heating in only the first region of the heating chamber.

[0027] According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus for generating an aerosol comprising a heating chamber for receiving an article for forming an aerosol and an induction coil for generating a magnetic field for heating the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber, the heating chamber comprising first and second regions, the induction coil being arranged, in use, to selectively generate a magnetic field to heat only the first region of the heating chamber and / or to induce heating in only the first region.

[0028] In some embodiments, the device may include electrical circuitry configured to monitor, for example, the performance of the induction coil. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "electrical" and "electronic" may be used interchangeably.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first and second regions may have substantially the same shape and / or volume. The first region may be adjacent to the second region or spaced apart from the second region. In some embodiments, the heating chamber may consist of the first and second regions.

[0030] The heating chamber may, for example, comprise a primary flow axis for the flow of fluid through the heating chamber in use. The heating chamber may comprise a first major boundary surface. The heating chamber may comprise a second major boundary surface. The first and / or second major boundary surfaces may be substantially flat. The first and second major boundary surfaces may extend in a facing parallel relationship. The first and second major boundary surfaces may define a primary flow axis. The first region may, for example, be upstream or downstream of the second region along the primary flow axis. The heating chamber may comprise an upstream end and, for example, a downstream end. The heating chamber may be configured or arranged such that, in use, the fluid flows from the upstream end to or toward the downstream end (e.g., along the primary flow axis). The heating chamber may, for example, have a non-rounded cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and / or the primary flow axis. The first region may, for example, be at or adjacent to the upstream end of the heat chamber and spaced apart from the downstream end of the heat chamber, and the second region may, for example, be at or adjacent to the downstream end of the heat chamber and spaced apart from the upstream end of the heat chamber.

[0031] In some embodiments, the electrical circuitry may be configured to control (e.g., alter or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field, for example, based on the monitored performance of the induction coil. In some embodiments, the electrical circuitry may be configured to control (e.g., alter or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field to heat a first region (if provided) of the heating chamber and / or induce heating of the first region. In some embodiments, the electrical circuitry may be configured to initiate the induction coil generating the magnetic field to heat a second region (if provided) of the heating chamber and / or induce heating of the second region, for example, after controlling (e.g., alter or stop) generation of the magnetic field to heat the first region and / or induce heating of the first region.

[0032] Advantageously, controlling (e.g., modifying or stopping) the induction coil that generates the magnetic field can improve the user experience of the device. For example, the electrical circuit can stop used or damaged articles from being heated in the device. Additionally or alternatively, the electrical circuit can stop articles having an incorrect configuration (e.g., an incompatible configuration, e.g., incorrect location, size, shape of the susceptor, etc.) from being heated in the device. Thereby, the electrical circuit can beneficially stop the heating of counterfeit or otherwise undesirable articles in the heating chamber of the device. Additionally or alternatively, the electrical circuit can modify the magnetic field generated by the induction coil to heat articles received in the heating chamber of the device more efficiently and / or in a more desirable heating regime (e.g., which can enhance the user experience).

[0033] In some embodiments, the electrical circuitry may be configured to monitor (e.g., directly or indirectly) the current flowing to and / or through and / or from the induction coil. The electrical circuitry may include, for example, a current sensor positioned to measure the current flowing to and / or through and / or from the induction coil. The current sensor may include a Hall effect sensor, and / or a shunt resistor, and / or a current transformer, and / or a fluxgate current sensor, and / or any other suitable type of current sensor.

[0034] In some embodiments, the electrical circuit may be configured to control (e.g., modify or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field when the monitored current flowing through the induction coil differs from an expected or desired current (e.g., a reference current). The electrical circuit may be configured to control (e.g., modify or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field when the monitored current flowing through the induction coil is less than, equal to, or greater than an expected or desired current (e.g., a reference current). The electrical circuit may be configured to control (e.g., modify or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field when the monitored current flowing through the induction coil differs from an expected or desired current (e.g., a reference current) for a duration of a predetermined period or more. The electrical circuit may include a switch configured to selectively allow or prevent electrical energy from reaching the induction coil, e.g., to control (e.g., modify or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field.

[0035] The expected or desired current (e.g., reference current) may include a threshold current, e.g., a preset threshold current. The expected or desired current (e.g., reference current) may include a current range. The expected or desired current (e.g., reference current) may include a rate of change of a threshold current over time, e.g., a preset threshold rate of change of current over time. The expected or desired current (e.g., reference current) may include a current profile, e.g., a plot or graph of current versus voltage and / or time.

[0036] The predetermined period of time may include any suitable period of time, for example, 10 seconds, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 seconds or less. The predetermined period of time may include less than 1000 milliseconds, for example, less than 900, 800, 700, 600, 500, 400, 300, 200, 100, 75, 50, 25, 20, 15, 10, or 5 milliseconds.

[0037] In some embodiments, the electrical circuitry can be configured to monitor a temperature of the heating chamber and / or the article for forming an aerosol received within the heating chamber. The electrical circuitry can include a temperature sensor, for example, positioned to measure a temperature of the heating chamber and / or the article for forming an aerosol received within the heating chamber. The temperature sensor can include one or more temperature sensors. The temperature sensor can include contact and / or non-contact sensors. The temperature sensor can include a thermostat, a thermistor, a resistive temperature detector, and / or a thermocouple.

[0038] The electrical circuitry may be configured to control (e.g., change or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field when the monitored temperature of the heating chamber and / or the article for forming an aerosol received therein differs from an expected or desired temperature (e.g., a reference temperature). The electrical circuitry may be configured to control (e.g., change or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field when the monitored temperature of the heating chamber and / or the article for forming an aerosol received therein is lower than, equal to, or higher than an expected or desired temperature (e.g., a reference temperature). The electrical circuitry may be configured to control (e.g., change or stop) the induction coil generating the magnetic field when the monitored temperature of the heating chamber and / or the article for forming an aerosol received therein differs from an expected or desired temperature (e.g., a reference temperature) for a duration of a predetermined period or more.

[0039] The expected or desired temperature (e.g., reference temperature) may include a threshold temperature, e.g., a preset threshold temperature. The threshold temperature may be 400 degrees Celsius, e.g., 300, 270, 250, 225, 200, 175, 150, 140, 130, 120, 110, 100, or 90 degrees Celsius. The expected or desired temperature (e.g., reference temperature) may include, e.g., about 90 to 400 degrees Celsius, e.g., about 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 270, or a temperature range between 300 and 400 degrees Celsius. The expected or desired temperature (e.g., reference temperature) may include a rate of change of the temperature threshold over time, e.g., a preset rate of change of the temperature threshold over time. The expected or desired temperature (eg, reference temperature) may include a temperature profile, eg, a plot or graph of temperature versus voltage, and / or current, and / or time.

[0040] In some embodiments, the electrical circuitry can be configured to prevent reactivation of the induction coil, for example, after generation of a magnetic field by the induction coil has ceased (e.g., unless and / or until a replacement article for forming an aerosol is received within the heating chamber).

[0041] In some embodiments, the induction coil may include a first and a second induction coil. The first induction coil may be arranged or configured or configurable to generate a magnetic field in (e.g., only) a first region of the heating chamber. The second induction coil may be arranged or configured or configurable to generate a magnetic field in (e.g., only) a second region of the heating chamber. The electrical circuit may be configured to control (e.g., change or stop) the first and / or second induction coils from generating a magnetic field based on, for example, the monitored performance of the first and / or second induction coils.

[0042] The electrical circuitry may be configured or configurable to change or adjust the operating frequency of the induction coil. If multiple induction coils (i.e., a plurality of induction coils) are provided, the electrical circuitry may be configured or configurable to change or adjust the operating frequency of one induction coil, several induction coils, or each induction coil, e.g., separately or together. If multiple induction coils are provided, the electrical circuitry may be operable or operable to generate a magnetic field in one induction coil at an operating frequency that is different from that used to generate a magnetic field from one or more of the other induction coils.

[0043] The electrical circuitry may, for example, comprise one or more inverters configured or configurable to generate alternating current (eg, from direct current).

[0044] In some embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a susceptor altering means or mechanism that is arranged or configured or configurable to alter, for example, the operation of a susceptor of an article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. The susceptor altering means may include mechanical, thermal, and / or chemical means for altering the operation of the susceptor. The susceptor altering means may be arranged or configured or configurable to alter, for example, the susceptor of an article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber, e.g., to deform and / or destroy the susceptor. The electrical circuit may be configured or configurable to operate the susceptor altering means or mechanism to alter, for example, the state of a susceptor of an article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. The electrical circuit may be configured or configurable to operate a susceptor altering means or mechanism to alter a state of a susceptor of an article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber when and / or after the generation of the magnetic field by the induction coil is controlled (e.g., altered or stopped). The susceptor altering means or mechanism may include a hook. The susceptor altering means or mechanism may be operable to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the susceptor altering means or mechanism may engage and / or contact a portion (e.g., a susceptor) of an article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. In the disengaged position, the susceptor altering means or mechanism may be removed from an article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber. Altering the article may include moving the susceptor altering means or mechanism from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The susceptor altering means or mechanism may include heating, e.g., overheating, an article received in the heating chamber.For example, the susceptor modification means or mechanism may include heating an article received within the heating chamber to a modification temperature, which may be higher than, for example, a normal operating temperature to which the article is heated (e.g., the temperature at which volatile compounds are released from the article). The modification temperature may be configured or selected to modify (e.g., directly or indirectly) the shape and / or size and / or condition of a susceptor of the article received within the heating chamber. In some embodiments, the modification temperature may be configured or selected to modify, for example, the shape and / or size and / or condition of an aerosol-forming substrate of the article received within the heating chamber, and thereby modify the shape, size and / or condition of a susceptor of the article.

[0045] In some embodiments, the device may comprise a triggering means or mechanism for activating the device, e.g., for activating generation of an aerosol by the device. The triggering means or mechanism may comprise a manually operated or operable actuator or activator, e.g., a switch or button. Additionally or alternatively, the triggering means or mechanism may comprise an automatically operated or operable actuator or activator, e.g., a switch that is actuated by a threshold pressure or flow rate of the fluid. In some embodiments, the device may comprise a check valve or one-way valve that is configured or configurable to restrict flow through or within the device to a single direction, e.g., configured or configurable to allow inhalation through the device and prevent exhalation through the device. Inhalation through the device may comprise a flow of fluid (e.g., air) toward a first end when provided. Exhalation through the device may comprise a flow of fluid (e.g., air) toward a second end when provided.

[0046] The resistance to draw (RTD) of the apparatus for generating an aerosol with the article for forming an aerosol received in a heating chamber may be from about 80 mmWG to about 140 mmWG. As used herein, resistance to draw is expressed in units of pressure "mmWG" or "mm of water gauge" and is measured in accordance with ISO 6565:2002.

[0047] The device may, for example, include a cooling chamber in fluid communication with the heating chamber. The cooling chamber may be in fluid communication with a mouthpiece or mouthpiece end (if provided) of the device. The cooling chamber may be configured or configurable to cool a mixture of fluid and volatilized compounds flowing therein. The cooling chamber may have a cross-sectional area (e.g., perpendicular to the direction of flow into the cooling chamber) that is relatively larger than the cross-sectional area (e.g., perpendicular to the axis of the main flow) of the heating chamber.

[0048] In some embodiments, the device can be configured to recognize an article for forming an aerosol, for example a type or kind of article for forming an aerosol.

[0049] According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an article for forming an aerosol, wherein the apparatus is configured to recognize or identify the article for forming an aerosol, e.g., the type or variety of the article for forming an aerosol.

[0050] In some embodiments, the device may be configured or arranged to selectively permit or prevent heating of the article to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the device may be configured or arranged to selectively permit heating of the article to form an aerosol, for example, when the article to form an aerosol is recognized or identified (e.g., as suitable). In some embodiments, the device may be configured or arranged to selectively prevent heating of the article to form an aerosol, for example, when the article to form an aerosol is recognized or identified (e.g., as unsuitable).

[0051] The device may be configured to recognize or identify the article for forming an aerosol based on one or more parameters of the article. Suitable parameters may include the size of the article, the shape of the article, the volume of the article, one or more dimensions of the article, the density of one or more parts of the article, the mass or weight of the article or parts thereof, one or more tags or markings in and / or on the article, whether visible (e.g., revealed upon exposure to a particular wavelength of electromagnetic radiation, and / or chemicals, and / or temperature, and / or pressure), the permeability of at least a part of the article, the material properties of the article or parts thereof, the strength and / or location and / or orientation of the magnetism of the article or parts thereof, the capacitance of the article or parts thereof, the electrical resistance of the article or parts thereof, etc.

[0052] According to the present invention, there is provided a system for generating an aerosol, the system comprising an apparatus for generating an aerosol as described herein and an article for forming an aerosol.

[0053] In some embodiments, the article for forming an aerosol may be shaped to closely fit the heating chamber, e.g., the shape and / or dimensions of the heating chamber. Additionally or alternatively, the article for forming an aerosol may include one or more extensions configured (e.g., sized and / or shaped) to extend from the heating chamber when received therein. The extension(s) may be attached or connected to a main portion of the article for forming an aerosol. The extension(s) may extend from a side, edge, or end of the article for forming an aerosol. The article for forming an aerosol may be approximately parallelepiped in shape. The article for forming an aerosol may have a width, a length, and a thickness. The thickness may be less than both the width and the length. The article may have a non-rounded cross-section. The article may have a substantially flat first major surface. The article may have a substantially flat second major surface. The first and second major surfaces may be substantially parallel to one another, e.g., extend in a generally parallel relationship. The article may comprise an upstream end. The article may include a downstream end. The article may be configured or arranged such that when inserted into the heating chamber of the device to form an aerosol, a fluid can flow through the article (e.g., from the upstream end to the downstream end). The article may have, for example, a non-rounded cross-section, the cross-section being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the article (e.g., the direction of extension of the article from the upstream end to the downstream end). The article may include first and second regions, for example, which may be configured to align with the first and second regions of the heating chamber, respectively (when the article is inserted therein).

[0054] Advantageously, the provision of a non-rounded cross section reduces the number of relative orientations that can be inserted into the heating chamber of the device to form an aerosol (if the article is shaped to closely fit the heating chamber). Thus, the article can be more quickly and easily aligned with the device in an intended or desired orientation by the user of the device (which may otherwise prove difficult). Beneficially, therefore, the elements of the article can be correctly aligned with the elements of the device, which can increase the efficiency of use of the article in the device (e.g., heating the article in the device). Thus, the insertion of the article into the device may be easier for the user of the device.

[0055] In some embodiments, the article may include one or more metal elements (e.g., susceptors). One, some, or each of the one or more metal elements may be located in and / or on the article (e.g., the aerosol-forming substrate). One, some, or each of the one or more metal elements may be located in and / or on the first and / or second regions (if first and second regions are provided) of the aerosol-forming substrate. One of the first and second regions may be from a metal element. The one or more metal elements may extend at least partially along the length of the article. The one or more metal elements may extend at least partially across the width of the article. The one or more metal elements may extend through the thickness of the article. The one or more metal elements may have any suitable shape, e.g., loops, coils, strips, spheres, strands, particles, irregular shapes, etc. The one or more metal elements may comprise a metal shell or cover layer of any suitable shape (e.g., as described above) surrounding a non-metallic material and / or may be hollow.

[0056] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. Alternatively, or additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco containing aerosol-forming material.

[0057] Where the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, one or more of powders, granules, pellets, shreds, threads, strips, or sheets containing one or more of herb leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, expanded tobacco, and homogenized tobacco.

[0058] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavour compounds, which are released upon heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0059] When the aerosol-forming substrate is in the form of a fluid, e.g., liquid or gas, it may contain tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released when the fluid aerosol-forming substrate is heated. Optionally, the solid or fluid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of a powder, granule, pellet, piece, thread, strip, or sheet. The solid or fluid aerosol-forming substrate may be placed throughout the carrier, e.g., throughout its volume. Alternatively, the solid or fluid aerosol-forming substrate may be placed on the surface of the carrier, e.g., in the form of a sheet, foam, gel, or slurry. The solid or fluid aerosol-forming substrate may be placed on the entire surface of the carrier, or alternatively, may be placed in a pattern to provide a non-uniform flavor delivery during use.

[0060] The article for forming an aerosol may comprise a volatile flavour generating component. If provided, the or each extension of the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a volatile flavour generating component.

[0061] As used herein, the term "volatile flavor-generating ingredient" is used to describe any volatile ingredient that is added to an aerosol-forming substrate to provide a flavorant.

[0062] The volatile flavor-generating component may be in liquid or solid form. The volatile flavor-generating compound may be bound to or otherwise associated with the support element. The support element may include any suitable substrate or support for placing, holding, or retaining the flavor-generating component. For example, the support element may include a fibrous support element, which may be saturated or saturable with a fluid, e.g., a liquid.

[0063] In some embodiments, the volatile flavor-generating component can have any suitable structure, with the structural material releasably encapsulating the flavorant(s). For example, in some preferred embodiments, the volatile flavor-generating component comprises a matrix structure defining a plurality of domains, with the flavorant(s) being trapped within the domains until released, for example, when the aerosol-forming substrate is subjected to an external force. Alternatively, the volatile flavor-generating component can comprise a capsule. Preferably, the capsule comprises an outer shell and an inner core containing the flavorant. The outer shell is sealed before the application of the external force, but is preferably frangible or breakable to allow the flavorant to be released when the external force is applied. The capsule may be formed in a variety of physical configurations, including, but not limited to, single-part capsules, multi-part capsules, single-walled capsules, multi-walled capsules, large capsules, and small capsules.

[0064] If the volatile flavor generating component comprises a matrix structure that defines a plurality of domains that encapsulate the flavor, the flavor delivery member may gradually release the flavor when the aerosol-forming substrate is subjected to an external force. Alternatively, if the flavor generating component is a capsule that is arranged to break or burst and release the flavor when the article for forming an aerosol is subjected to an external force (for example, but not limited to, when the capsule comprises an outer shell and an inner core), the capsule may have any desired burst strength. The burst strength is the force (applied to the capsule from the outside of the aerosol-forming substrate) at which the capsule bursts. The burst strength may be the peak of the force vs. compression curve of the capsule.

[0065] The volatile flavor-generating component may be configured to release the flavorant in response to an activation mechanism, which may include the application of a force to the filter, a change in temperature within the filter, a chemical reaction, or any combination thereof.

[0066] Suitable flavoring agents include, but are not limited to, materials containing natural or synthetic menthol, peppermint, spearmint, coffee, tea, spices (such as cinnamon, clove and ginger), cocoa, vanilla, fruit flavors, chocolate, eucalyptus, geranium, eugenol, agave, juniper, anethole, and linalool.

[0067] As used herein, the term "menthol" is used to describe the compound 2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol in any of its isomeric forms.

[0068] Menthol may be used in solid or liquid form. In solid form, menthol may be provided as particles or granules. The term "solid menthol particles" may be used to describe any granular or particulate solid material that is at least approximately 80% by weight of menthol.

[0069] Preferably, 1.5 mg or more of the volatile flavour generating component is contained in the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0070] The aerosol-forming substrate preferably comprises an aerosol former.

[0071] As used herein, the term "aerosol former" is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of an aerosol upon use and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate. Suitable aerosol formers are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate).

[0072] Preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and most preferably glycerin.

[0073] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a single aerosol former, alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a combination of two or more aerosol formers.

[0074] The aerosol-forming substrate preferably has an aerosol former content of greater than 5% on a dry weight basis.

[0075] The aerosol-forming substrate may have an aerosol former content of between about 5% and about 30% on a dry weight basis.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has an aerosol former content of approximately 20 percent on a dry weight basis.

[0077] According to the invention there is provided a method of using a device for generating an aerosol, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing an apparatus for generating an aerosol, the apparatus comprising a heating chamber, an induction coil, and an electrical circuit; b) inserting an article for forming an aerosol into a heating chamber; c) generating a magnetic field with an induction coil to heat the heating chamber and / or an article received therein to form an aerosol; d) monitoring the performance of the induction coil using an electrical circuit.

[0078] In some embodiments, the method may include e) controlling (e.g., altering or ceasing) the generation of a magnetic field by the induction coil using an electrical circuit, e.g., based on the monitored performance of the induction coil.

[0079] All scientific and technical terms used herein have meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided herein are intended to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequently herein.

[0080] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the terms "comprise" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to" and are not intended to (and do not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers, or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular includes the plural, and vice versa, unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, when the indefinite article is used, the specification should be understood as contemplating the plural as well as the singular, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0081] For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. It is expressly contemplated that within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, alternatives presented in the preceding paragraphs, claims and / or the following description and drawings, and in particular in their specific individual features, may be used individually or in any combination. Features described in relation to one aspect or embodiment of the invention are applicable to all aspects or embodiments, unless such features are incompatible.

[0082] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0083] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an apparatus for generating an aerosol according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along plane AA defined in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion B of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a heating arrangement for use in an apparatus for generating an aerosol according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 5] 2 is a schematic side view of an article for forming an aerosol for use in the apparatus for generating an aerosol shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of using the device for generating an aerosol shown in FIG. 1.

[0084] Referring now to Figures 1, 2 and 3, there is shown a device 1 for generating an aerosol, comprising a first mouthpiece end 1a and a second distal end 1b, with a housing 2 extending therebetween. The device 1 has a generally parallelepiped shape in this embodiment. The housing 2 is formed from a plastic material in this embodiment, and can be molded into the required shape according to molding techniques known in the art. However, in some embodiments, the housing 2 may be optional, and if provided, can have any suitable shape and be formed from any suitable material and / or combination of materials.

[0085] Mouthpiece end 1a of housing 2 (which provides the downstream end) includes a mouthpiece 2a that is removably attached to the remainder of housing 2 by a push fit. However, in some embodiments, mouthpiece 2a may be integrally formed with the remainder of housing 2. Alternatively, in some embodiments, mouthpiece 2a may not be provided.

[0086] The device 1 includes an electrical circuit E located in the housing 2 in this embodiment. However, in some embodiments, the electrical circuit E can be located in any suitable location relative to the device 1. The distal end 1b of the device 1 includes an optional electrical connection EC for connecting to the electrical circuit E in the optional housing 2 (e.g., for programming), for receiving data from a memory (not shown) in the housing 2, and / or for charging a power source (not shown) in the housing 2. The electrical connection EC can include one or more of a micro USB, USB-C, or custom connection. The distal end 1b of the device 1 can also include an alerting mechanism (not shown), e.g., an audio device such as a speaker and / or a light source such as a light emitting diode (LED). The alerting mechanism can be configured or configurable to alert a user of the device 1 to a change in the status of the device 1, e.g., the power source needs charging.

[0087] Located within the apparatus 1 is an article for forming an aerosol 3 comprising an aerosol-forming substrate 30, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the article 3 is separate from the apparatus 1 and does not form part of the apparatus 1.

[0088] As best shown in Figures 2 and 3, the device 1 also includes a heater 4, a heating chamber 5, an optional flavor-generating chamber 6, and an optional cooling chamber 7 located within the optional housing 2 between the mouthpiece 1a and distal end 1b of the device 1. The heating chamber 5 is directly adjacent to and in fluid communication with the optional flavor-generating chamber 6. The optional flavor-generating chamber 6 is in fluid communication with the cooling chamber 7, which is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece end 1b of the device 1. An optional button 8 is located adjacent to the optional flavor-generating chamber 6.

[0089] The heating chamber 5 comprises, in this embodiment, first and second major interfaces 5a, 5b. Additionally, a secondary interface (not shown) extends between the first and second major interfaces 5a, 5b. The first and second major interfaces 5a, 5b are substantially flat and, in this embodiment, are formed from a plastic material. However, in some embodiments, the first and second major interfaces 5a, 5b may be formed from any suitable material, for example, a metal (e.g., iron or an alloy thereof). The heating chamber 5 has, in this embodiment, a generally parallelepiped shape. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the device 1 is in a first closed state in which the first and second major interfaces 5a, 5b are in a facing, parallel relationship. The first and second major interfaces 5a, 5b define an axis P of a main flow of fluid from an upstream end US to a downstream end DS through an article 3 received between them. The inlet 5c is located at one end (upstream end US) of the heating chamber 5 in fluid communication with the exterior of the arrangement housing 2. The outlet 5d is located at the opposite end (downstream end DS) of the heating chamber 5. A main axis P extends between the inlet 5c and the outlet 5d (e.g., the upstream end US and the downstream end DS) and is parallel to the flow path therebetween. The heating chamber 5 comprises first and second regions R1, R2 (as seen in FIG. 4). The first region R1 is adjacent to the upstream end US of the heating chamber 5. The second region R2 is adjacent to the downstream end DS of the heating chamber 5.

[0090] The heater 4 comprises first and second induction coils 4a, 4b. The induction coils 4a, 4b of the heater 4 are arranged to heat, in use, a susceptor S of an aerosol-forming substrate 3 received in the heating chamber 5 (described in more detail below). The induction coils 4a, 4b are embedded in the housing 2 in this embodiment, but in some embodiments the induction coils 4a, 4b may instead be located within the chamber of the housing 2. As shown more clearly in FIG. 5, the longitudinal axis L of each induction coil 4a, 4b is substantially perpendicular to the axis P of the main flow, such that the magnetic field M generated thereby (in use) is parallel to the axis P of the main flow. The first induction coil 4a is configured to generate a magnetic field in a first region R1 of the heating chamber 5 in use. The second induction coil 4b is configured to generate a magnetic field in a second region R2 of the heating chamber 5 in use. The heater 4 is operably connected or connectable to a power source.

[0091] The first main boundary surface 5a is attached to the first part 2b of the housing 2, and the second main boundary surface 5b is attached to the second part 2c of the housing 2. The first part 2b of the housing 2, and thus the first main boundary surface 5a, is slidable in a direction parallel to the main axis P relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2 and the second main boundary surface 5b.

[0092] The first and second major interface surfaces 5a, 5b may in this embodiment comprise a corrugation having parallel peaks and troughs (not shown), the peaks and troughs extending in a direction parallel to the axis P of the main flow.

[0093] The first portion 2b of the housing 2 comprises an extension portion 2d which extends outwardly of and in a direction generally parallel to the first major boundary surface 5a. The extension portion 2d is elastically deformable in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first major boundary surface 5a. A free end 2e of the extension portion 2d is tapered.

[0094] The removal opening 2f extends through the second portion 2c of the housing 2 at a location upstream of the heating chamber 5. The removal opening 2f is shaped and sized so that the used article 3 can be removed from the device 1 through it in use. The removal opening 2f is connected to the heating chamber 5 by a removal passage 20. The guide surface of the removal opening 2f is arranged to facilitate sliding removal of the used article 3 from the device 1 in use. The guide surface extends in a direction at an acute angle to the axis P of the main flow of the heating chamber 5. In this embodiment, the guide surface is curved. The removal opening 2f may comprise an air inlet to the device 1. In some embodiments, the device 1 may comprise one or more additional or alternative air inlets extending through the housing 2 and in fluid communication with the heating chamber 5.

[0095] The mouthpiece 2a, in this embodiment (as shown in FIG. 1), comprises a transparent portion 2g, through which the aerosol generation can be viewed during use of the device 1.

[0096] The abutment element 9 is movable within the device 1 relative to the housing 2 into and / or out of the heating chamber 5. The abutment element 9 is configured to pull the article 3 out of the heating chamber 5. The abutment element 9 is located in a slot within the device 1 and is adjacent to and aligned with the optional flavor-generating chamber 6 and the heating chamber 5. The abutment element 9 and the extension 2d of the first portion 2b of the housing 2 comprise a coupling mechanism for releasably coupling the two components together. The coupling mechanism comprises an engagement member or clasp 9a and a cooperating recess 9b. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3, the extension 2d comprises the recess 9b and the abutment element 9 comprises the engagement member or clasp 9a. However, in some embodiments, the extension 2d can comprise the engagement member or clasp 9a and the abutment element 9 can comprise the recess 9b. The engagement member or catch 9a is resiliently biased (eg, by a spring) into and towards a position where it engages the recess 9b, thereby coupling the extension portion 2d and the abutment element 9 to one another.

[0097] The button 8 comprises a flavour releasing mechanism. The button 8 is located within a button opening 8a, which is located adjacent the optional flavour generating chamber 6 and extends through the extension 2d of the first part 2b of the housing 2. The button 8 is movable in use into or out of the optional flavour generating chamber 6. The button 8 comprises a clamping surface 8b, which is arranged to be movable in use relative to an article 3 located in the optional flavour generating chamber 6. The button 8 comprises an annular protrusion at or adjacent its end. The button opening 8b comprises first and second internal abutments sized and positioned to engage the annular protrusion of the button 8, thereby retaining the button 8 within the button opening 8b, while also allowing the button 8 to move in and out of the optional flavour generating chamber 6.

[0098] The cooling chamber 7 has a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of flow into the cooling chamber 7 that is larger (e.g., of greater height and / or width) than the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid flow passage that fluidly connects the optional flavour generating chamber 6 to the cooling chamber 7. The cooling chamber 7 also has a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of flow into the cooling chamber 7 that is larger (e.g., of greater height and / or width) than the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid flow passage that fluidly connects the cooling chamber 7 to the mouthpiece end 1 a of the device 1.

[0099] The electrical circuit E includes a temperature sensor E1, which in this embodiment is arranged to measure the temperature of the heating chamber 5 and / or the item 3 received therein. Although the temperature sensor E1 is shown as being embedded in one of the major interfaces 5a, this need not be the case and, additionally or alternatively, the temperature sensor E1 may be located in any suitable location. In some embodiments, more than one temperature sensor E1 may be provided, for example, where at least one of the plurality of temperature sensors E1 (i.e., a plurality of temperature sensors) may be arranged to measure the temperature of the heating chamber 5 and where at least one of the plurality of temperature sensors E1 may be arranged to measure the temperature of the item 3 received therein.

[0100] In this embodiment, the electric circuit E also includes a current monitor sensor. The current monitor sensor is configured to measure the current flowing through and / or to and / or from the first and second induction coils 4a, 4b. The electric circuit includes a processor operatively connected to the temperature sensor E1 and the current monitor sensor. The processor is also operatively associated with the heater 4 and / or the power source to selectively allow or prevent the supply of electrical energy to the heater 4. The processor is configured to receive temperature data from the temperature sensor E1 corresponding to the measured temperature of the heating chamber 5 and / or the temperature of the item 3 received therein. The processor is configured to receive current data from the current monitor sensor corresponding to the measured current flowing to, through and / or from the first and second induction coils 4a, 4b. The processor is also configured to compare the received temperature and current data with expected or desired temperature data (e.g., reference temperature data) and with expected or desired current data (e.g., reference current data). In some embodiments, the expected temperature and / or current data, as well as the desired expected temperature and / or current data (eg, reference temperature and / or current data), may be stored in the device 1.

[0101] As shown in more detail in FIG. 5, the article 3 for forming an aerosol comprises a main part 3a and an optional extension 3b extending therefrom. The main part 3a is sized and shaped to closely fit the size and shape of the heating chamber 5 when placed therein. The main part 3a comprises an aerosol-forming substrate 30, in this embodiment in the form of a matrix material in which a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 30 is held. The main part 3a of the article 3 has an upstream end UE and a downstream end DE from which the optional extension 3b extends. The main part 3a of the article 3 comprises first and second regions R1, R2. The first region R1 is adjacent to the upstream end UE of the main part 3a of the article. The second region R2 is adjacent to the downstream end DE of the main part 3a of the article.

[0102] The susceptor S is located in the second region R2 of the main part 3a of the article 3 in this embodiment. However, in some embodiments, the susceptor S may be located on the second region R2 of the main part 3a of the article 3, or both on and in the second region R2. The susceptor S has the form of a coil and is formed of a magnetizable material, for example, from iron or its alloys. The susceptor S is arranged to align with the first induction coil 4a of the heater when the article 3 is received in the heating chamber 5 (as shown in FIG. 3). The first region R1 of the main part 3a of the article 3 does not include a susceptor S in this embodiment. The optional extension 3b of the article 3 comprises a holder material in which a volatile flavor-generating component 3c in the form of a capsule 3c is held. The capsule 3c contains a flavoring agent, which in this embodiment is methanol.

[0103] Now referring to FIG. 6, a method of using the device 1 is shown. In a first step S1, a device for generating an aerosol is provided to its user. The user of the device 1 then inserts an article 3 for forming an aerosol into the heating chamber 5 of the device 1 in a second step S2. In this embodiment, this insertion involves the user sliding the first part 2b of the housing 2 relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2 in the direction of arrow C, moving the heating chamber 5 to an open state. The article 3 is then placed inside the open device 1. The first part 2b of the housing 2 is then slid in the direction of arrow D (i.e., in the opposite direction to the direction specified by arrow C) relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2 until the free end 2e of the extension part 2d of the housing 2 is located (relatively) above the aerosol-forming substrate 3. The user then applies a perpendicular force to the extension part 2d, elastically pressing the tapered free end 2e of the extension part 2d against the article 3. The user then continues to slide the first part 2b of the housing 2 in the direction of arrow C relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2. Thereby, the article 3 engages with the free end 2e of the extension part 2d and moves along it. In this way, the article 3 is moved into the heating chamber 5. The first part 2b of the housing 2 is slid in the direction of arrow C until the free end 2e of the extension part 2d engages with an abutment provided on the second part 2c of the housing 2, which limits further sliding in this direction. In this closed state, the first and second main boundary surfaces 5a, 5b of the heating chamber 5 are in a parallel facing relationship and the article 3 is located in the heating chamber 5 (as shown in Figures 2 and 3).

[0104] The article 3 is inserted into the heating chamber 5 of the device 1 such that a first region R1 of the main part 3a of the article 3 is aligned with a first region R1 of the heating chamber 5 and a second region R2 of the main part 3a of the article 3 is aligned with a second region R2 of the heating chamber 5. An optional extension 3b of the article 3 extends beyond the heating chamber 5 and into the optional flavour-generating chamber 6. A capsule 3c is placed within the optional extension 3b and into the optional flavour-generating chamber 6, and is aligned with the button 8 when the device 1 is in the closed state.

[0105] In the closed position, the engagement member or catch 9a is resiliently biased to align with and engage the recess 9b therein. The abutment element 9 is thus coupled to the extension 2d of the first portion 2b of the housing 2 by a coupling mechanism.

[0106] The first and second induction coils 4a, 4b are then activated in a third step S3 to generate a magnetic field in the first and second regions R1, R2 of the heating chamber 5 for heating the article 3 therein. This activation may be triggered by a trigger mechanism (not shown), such as a flow and / or pressure sensor, which may be configured to respond to changes in air flow and / or air pressure resulting from a user sucking on the mouthpiece end 1a of the device 1. However, in some embodiments, the trigger mechanism may comprise a manually activated switch and / or an activatable switch. The trigger mechanism (if provided) may be operably connected to an electrical circuit E. Electrical energy from a power source is supplied to the first and second induction coils 4a, 4b under the control of the electrical circuit E (e.g., by activation of a switch). The flow of electrical energy through the first and second induction coils 4a, 4b generates a magnetic field in the first and second regions R1, R2 of the heating chamber 5.

[0107] In a fourth step S4, the performance of the induction coils 4a, 4b is monitored by an electrical circuit E. A current monitor sensor measures the current flowing through each of the first and second coils 4a, 4b and transmits current data corresponding to the measured currents to a processor.

[0108] The received current data is then compared to expected or desired current data (e.g., reference current data). The magnetic field generated in the second region R2 of the heating chamber 5 by the second induction coil 4b induces heating of the susceptor S in the second region R2 of the main part 3a of the article 3 therein and by the susceptor S. The magnetic field generated in the first region R1 of the heating chamber 5 by the first induction coil 4a does not induce heating because there is no susceptor S in the first region R1 of the main part 3a of the article 3. Thus, the current flowing through the first coil 4a is relatively low and the current flowing through the second coil is relatively high. The current data is compared to expected or desired current data (e.g., reference current data), which in this embodiment includes a threshold amount of current. The current data of the first induction coil 4a is below the threshold amount of the expected or desired current data (e.g., reference current data). The current data of the second induction coil 4b is above the threshold amount of the expected or desired current data (e.g., reference current data).

[0109] In a fifth step S5, the processor of the electrical circuit E, in response to the relatively low current measured in the current data, stops the first induction coil 4a from generating a magnetic field in the first region R1 of the heating chamber 5. The second induction coil 4b continues to generate a magnetic field in the second region R2 of the heating chamber 5.

[0110] As will be appreciated, if the article 3 is inserted incorrectly into the heating chamber 5, such that, for example, the first and second regions R1, R2 of the main portion 3a of the article 3 are not aligned with the first and second regions R1, R2 of the heating chamber 5, respectively, the measured currents of the induction coils 4a, 4b may be different. If the first and second regions R1, R2 of the article 3 are not aligned correctly with the first and second regions R1, R2 of the heating chamber, the current monitor sensor may measure a current through each induction coil 4a, 4b that is lower than a threshold amount of expected or desired current data (e.g., reference current data). Thus, under this arrangement, the processor may be operable to stop the magnetic field being generated in both induction coils 4a, 4b. Additionally, if a different article for forming a substrate having a different configuration is inserted into the heating chamber 5 (e.g., no susceptor S is present or has a susceptor in a different location), the processor may also stop the generation of a magnetic field by one or both of the induction coils 4a, 4b.

[0111] Air is drawn through the device 1 in this embodiment by the user sucking on the mouthpiece end 1a of the device 1. The air flows from the removal opening 2f through the inlet 5c of the heating chamber 5 along (i.e. parallel to) the axis P of the main flow of the heating chamber and leaves the heating chamber 5 through the outlet 5d. The air passes through the main part 3a of the article 3 from its upstream end UE to its downstream end DE, whereby the volatilized compounds are mixed into the air flow through the heating chamber 5. When the mixture of the air flow and the volatilized compounds reaches the cooling chamber 7, the relatively increased cross-sectional area of ​​the cooling chamber 7 causes the mixture to expand. The mixture is thereby cooled in the cooling chamber 7, and the volatilized compounds coalesce and form into an aerosol. The aerosol is then drawn through the mouthpiece 2a to the user sucking on the mouthpiece 2a.

[0112] A user can press button 8 into optional flavour-generating chamber 6 to shatter an adjacent capsule 3c in optional extension 3b of article 3, thereby releasing flavour therefrom. The flavour released from capsule 3c is then drawn to the user through the airflow through device 1, caused by the user sucking on mouthpiece end 1a of device 1.

[0113] The article 3 can be removed from the device 1 after use. The user slides the first part 2b of the housing 2 relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2 in the direction of arrow D to move the device 1 away from the closed state towards the open state. The abutment element 9 (which is coupled to the extension part 2d of the first part 2b of the housing 2 by a coupling mechanism) is dragged by the first part 2b of the housing 2 into contact with the optional flavour generating chamber 6 and the heating chamber 5 and pushes the article 3 out of them. Continuing to slide the first part 2b of the housing 2 (relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2) in the direction of arrow D causes the abutment element 9 to push the used article 3 into the removal opening 2f. The guide surface of the removal opening 2f guides the article 3 to slide out of the device 1 from where it can be collected by any suitable means.

[0114] The article 3 is removed from the device 1 when the supply of volatile compound is depleted, when a set number of drawers have been added to the device 1, or when the user decides to change the article 3 for any other reason (e.g., to experience a different flavor).

[0115] Although the apparatus 1 is described as including first and second induction coils 4a, 4b, this need not be the case; instead, the apparatus 1 may include only one induction coil, or may include three or more induction coils. Additionally or alternatively, the or each induction coil may be located in any suitable location relative to the heating chamber 5, for example, the first coil 4a may be located adjacent the first major interface 5a and the second coil 4b may be located adjacent the second major interface 5b. Additionally or alternatively, the induction coil, a portion of the induction coils, or each induction coil may be positioned to generate a magnetic field across a small portion, a large portion, or substantially all of the heating chamber 5.

[0116] Although the electrical circuitry E of the apparatus has been described as monitoring the performance of the induction coils 4a, 4b by measuring the current flowing therebetween, this need not be the case, and additionally or alternatively, the performance of the induction coils 4a, 4b may be monitored indirectly by measuring the temperature of the heating chamber 5 (e.g., its first region R1 and / or second region R2) and / or the article 3 (or a portion thereof) received therein, using a temperature sensor E1. In some embodiments, the processor may additionally or alternatively be operable to selectively shut down one or both of the induction coils 4a, 4b in response to a comparison of the measured temperature with expected or desired temperature data (e.g., reference temperature data).

[0117] Additionally or alternatively, the current data generated by the current monitor sensor may correspond to one or more characteristics of the article 3 for forming a substrate. For example, the current data may include operational information related to one or more of the operating temperature parameters of the article, the desired duration for heating the article, the desired total thermal energy to be transferred to the article, the number of heating cycles the article may be subjected to, and / or the type and / or condition of the article in the heating chamber 5. In some embodiments, the device 1 may include a display, for example, a screen that may be configured to display one or more images related to the article for forming an aerosol. When a particular type of article is detected by monitoring the performance of the induction coils 4a, 4b, an image corresponding to the detected article may be displayed on the screen of the device.

[0118] Although the generation of the magnetic field is described as being stopped in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, alternatively, the generation of the magnetic field can instead be controlled (e.g., changed), e.g., the electrical energy supplied to one or both of the induction coils 4a, 4b can be increased or decreased, and / or the frequency of the magnetic field can be controlled (e.g., increased or decreased). Although the electric circuit E is described as stopping the generation of the magnetic field by the first induction coil 4a and allowing the continued generation of the magnetic field by the second induction coil 4b, this need not be the case, and instead, the generation of the magnetic field by the second coil 4b can be stopped, for example, when the susceptor S of the second region R2 of the main portion 3a of the article 3 is of a size, shape, location, and / or configuration that generates a current flowing through the second coil 4b that is less than a threshold value of the expected or desired current (e.g., reference current). In some embodiments, the susceptor S can move within the heating chamber 5 during heating of the article 3, e.g., due to expansion and / or contraction of the article 3. If the susceptor S moves within the heating chamber 5, the current measured as flowing through the first and / or second induction coils 4a, 4b may change. This change in current may cause the electrical circuit E to stop the generation of a magnetic field by one or both of the induction coils 4a, 4b.

[0119] In some embodiments, the electrical circuit E may include an internal memory that may store one or more of the following: measured current data, measured temperature data, data corresponding to the number of activations of the apparatus 1, data corresponding to the number of times the coil has stopped generating a magnetic field, data corresponding to the movement (if any) of the susceptor S within the heating chamber 5, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the above mentioned data may be transmitted from the apparatus 1, for example from the electrical connection EC and / or via wireless transmission.

[0120] Although the first part 2b of the housing 2 is described as being slidable relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2, this need not be the case; instead, the first part 2b may be pivotable relative to and / or removable from the second part 2c. In some embodiments, the first part 2b may be fixed relative to the second part 2c of the housing 2 (which in turn fixes the first and second major interfaces 5a and 5b of the heating chamber 5 to each other). When the first and second parts 2a and 2b are fixed to each other, the device 1 may comprise a carriage for holding and / or guiding the aerosol-forming substrate into and / or out of the heating chamber 5. The device may be configured to support the carriage in a sliding relationship.

[0121] In some embodiments, the apparatus 1 can include a plurality of heaters (i.e., a plurality of heaters), which may include both a heater configured or arranged to heat the first and / or second major interface 5a, 5b (e.g., a heater of the type of heater 4 shown in FIG. 4) as well as a heater configured to heat a susceptor of an article 3 received within the heating chamber 5 (e.g., a heater of the type of heater 14 shown in FIG. 5). Alternatively, the apparatus 1 can include a plurality of heaters, including a first heater arranged to heat the first major interface 5a and a second heater arranged to heat the second major interface 5b. In some embodiments, the apparatus 1 can include a plurality of heaters, one heater arranged to heat at least a portion of a surface of the article 3 received between the first major interface 5a and the second major interface 5b, and a second heater arranged to heat an interior region of the article 3. When there are a plurality of heaters, they may be configured to heat at different times and / or at different temperatures. In some embodiments, where the apparatus 1 comprises a single heater 4 or multiple heaters, it or they may be arranged or configured to heat only one of the first and second major interface surfaces 5a, 5b.

[0122] In some embodiments, the device 1 may include a susceptor altering means or mechanism for altering the operation of the susceptor S of the article 3 to form an aerosol received in the heating chamber 5. The susceptor altering means or mechanism may include a hook in some embodiments. The hook may be operably moved to engage the article 3 after heating the article 3 in the heating chamber 5. The hook may be movable to alter the state of the susceptor, for example, to break and / or deform the susceptor S after heating the article 3 in the heating chamber 5. The movement of the hook to break or deform the susceptor may be operably controlled by an electric circuit E or may be operated manually by a user of the device 1. In some embodiments, the hook may be moved to engage the article 3, for example, the susceptor S of the article 3. The alteration of the susceptor may include removing the article 3 from the heating chamber 5 of the device 1, for example, removing the article 3 from the heating chamber 5 may cause or allow the hook (or other susceptor altering means) to alter the susceptor S of the article 3. In this manner, the article 3 for forming an aerosol can be modified when used within the heating chamber 5 and / or the article 3 can be prevented from being used again (e.g., being heated again) within the heating chamber 5 of the device 1 or the device 1 to generate an aerosol.

[0123] Additionally or alternatively, although the heating chamber 5 and article 3 are shown as having an approximately parallelepiped shape, this need not be the case; instead, the heating chamber 5 and / or article 3 may have any suitable shape.

[0124] The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale and are presented for purposes of illustration, not limitation. The drawings depict one or more aspects described in the present disclosure. However, it will be understood that other aspects not depicted in the drawings are within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An apparatus for generating an aerosol, comprising: a heating chamber for receiving an article for forming an aerosol; and a first induction coil for generating a magnetic field to heat the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber; the heating chamber comprising first and second regions; the first induction coil is arranged to, in use, selectively generate a magnetic field to heat or induce heating of the heating chamber; the first region is adjacent to or spaced apart from the second region; a second induction coil positioned to generate a magnetic field in the second region of the heating chamber; The apparatus includes a susceptor alteration means or mechanism configured to alter operation of a susceptor of an article for forming an aerosol received within the heating chamber to prevent the susceptor of the article from being reused.

2. the apparatus comprising an electrical circuit configured to monitor performance of one or both of the first and second induction coils; 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to control one or both of the first and second induction coils generating a magnetic field based on monitored performance of one or both of the first and second induction coils.

3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the electrical circuit is configured to monitor current flowing through one or both of the first and second induction coils.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the electrical circuit comprises a current sensor positioned to monitor the current flowing through one or both of the first and second induction coils.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 3 or 4, wherein the electrical circuit is configured to control one or both of the first and second induction coils generating a magnetic field when a monitored current flowing through one or both of the first and second induction coils differs from an expected current.

6. 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to control one or both of the first and second induction coils to generate a magnetic field when the monitored current flowing through one or both of the first and second induction coils differs from the expected current for a duration of at least a predetermined period of time.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the electrical circuit is configured to monitor the temperature of at least one of the heating chamber and the article for forming an aerosol received within the heating chamber.

8. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the electrical circuit comprises a temperature sensor disposed to measure a temperature of at least one of the heating chamber and the article for forming an aerosol received within the heating chamber.

9. The apparatus of claim 7 or 8, wherein the electrical circuit is configured to control one or both of the first and second induction coils to generate a magnetic field when a monitored temperature of at least one of the heating chamber and the article for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber differs from an expected temperature.

10. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the electrical circuit is configured to control one or both of the first and second induction coils to generate a magnetic field when the monitored temperature of the heating chamber and at least one of the articles for forming an aerosol received in the heating chamber differs from the expected temperature for a duration of at least a predetermined period of time.

11. 11. The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the electrical circuit is configured to prevent reactivation of one or both of the first and second induction coils after generation of a magnetic field by the induction coil has ceased, unless or until a replacement item for forming an aerosol is received in the heating chamber.

12. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the magnetic field is a varying magnetic field.

13. 1. A method of using a system for generating an aerosol, the method comprising: a) providing an apparatus for generating an aerosol, the apparatus comprising: a heating chamber for receiving an article for forming an aerosol, a first induction coil, and an electrical circuit, the heating chamber comprising a first and a second region, the first region being adjacent to or spaced apart from the second region; b) generating a magnetic field with the first induction coil to heat the heating chamber and / or the article received in the heating chamber to form an aerosol; c) providing a second induction coil positioned to generate a magnetic field in the second region of the heating chamber; d) monitoring performance of one or both of the first and second induction coils using the electrical circuit; e) modifying the operation of a susceptor of an article for forming an aerosol received within said heating chamber by a susceptor modifying means or mechanism to prevent said susceptor of said article from being reused; A method comprising:

14. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising, after d), controlling generation of the magnetic field by one or both of the first and second induction coils using the electrical circuitry based on the monitored performance of the induction coils.

15. 15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the magnetic field is a varying magnetic field.

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