Aerosol supply device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol delivery device. The device includes at least one inductor coil and a heater assembly configured to receive an aerosol-generating material. The heater assembly includes a first portion defining a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol-generating material, the first portion having a first internal cross-section. The first portion is heatable by the inductor coil. The heater assembly also includes a second portion adjacent to the first portion that forms a passageway having a second internal cross-section smaller than the first internal cross-section. A sealed fluid path is defined between the first and second portions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and an aerosol supply system including the aerosol supply device and an article including an aerosol generating material.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating a material without burning it. This material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol supply device including an inductor coil and a heater assembly configured to receive an aerosol generating material, the heater assembly including a first portion defining a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol generating material, the heating chamber having a first internal cross-sectional area, the first portion being heatable by the inductor coil, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion forming a passage having a second internal cross-sectional area smaller than the first internal cross-sectional area, the first portion and The second portion defines a sealed fluid path into defining are it.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol supply device comprising an inductor coil and a heater assembly configured to receive an aerosol generating material, the heater assembly being a first portion defining a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol generating material, the heating chamber having a first inner diameter, the first portion being heatable by the inductor coil, a first portion, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion forming a passage having a second inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter, the first portion and second part minutes defines a sealed fluid path into define are Yes.

[0005] The aerosol supply device may include a receptacle forming the first portion and a funnel portion forming the second portion.

[0006] The receptacle may define a heating chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material.

[0007] The receptacle may be fluidly sealed to the funnel portion at the joint.

[0008] The funnel portion and the receptacle may partially overlap at the joint.

[0009] The funnel portion may partially overlap the receptacle at the joint. Also, the funnel portion may define a shoulder at one end of the receptacle.

[0010] The first portion and the second portion may be fabricated as an integral component.

[0011] The first portion and the second portion may be fabricated as an integral component by welding. The welding may be laser welding.

[0012] The first portion and the second portion may be formed from carbon steel. Also, the first portion and the first portion may be coaxial with each other.

[0013] The aerosol supply device may comprise a first end support that defines an insertion chamber at the open end of the first portion. The first end support is fluidly sealed with the first portion at the open end, thereby The insertion chamber and the heating chamber are defining a sealed fluid path into may be are .

[0014] Also, the aerosol supply device may comprise a second end support at the open end of the second portion. The second end support may be fluidly sealed with the second portion at the open end. and may be fluidly sealed

[0015] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol supply device comprising a heater assembly configured to receive and heat an aerosol-forming material, the heater assembly comprising a first portion defining a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol-forming material, the heating chamber having a first internal cross-sectional area and the first portion being configured to be heated, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion forming a passage having a second internal cross-sectional area smaller than the first internal cross-sectional area, the first portion and the second part minutes , defining a sealed fluid path into defines are .

[0016] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a heater assembly of an aerosol supply device comprising a first portion defining a heating chamber having a first diameter for receiving an aerosol-forming material and configured to be heated, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion forming a passage having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, the heating chamber and through path , defining a sealed fluid path into defines are .

[0017] The first portion may be heated by an induction coil.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol supply device comprising a heater assembly having a heating chamber configured to receive an aerosol-forming material, the heater assembly comprising a susceptor that can be heated by the intrusion of a varying magnetic field, an inductor coil extending around the susceptor and configured to generate a varying magnetic field, an end support for receiving one end of the heater assembly, and a fluid seal provided between the heater assembly and the end support to dispose and seal the heater assembly relative to the end support.

[0019] The end support may define an insertion chamber at the open end of the heater assembly. The fluid seal may define a sealed fluid path through the insertion chamber to fluidly seal the end support from the heater assembly. and heating chamber are sealed fluid path into so as to define 、 the end support from the heater assembly and fluidly.

[0020] The end support may be a first end support at a first end of the heater assembly, and the aerosol supply device may comprise a second end support at a second end of the heater assembly.

[0021] The fluid seal may be a first fluid seal, and the aerosol supply device may comprise a second fluid seal that fluidly seals the second end support from the heater assembly. and fluidly.

[0022] The second end support may comprise an air inlet that defines a sealed fluid path through the heating chamber. and heating chamber are sealed fluid path into defines are as well.

[0023] The fluid seal may be formed on one of the heater assembly and the end support.

[0024] The fluid seal may be formed on the outside of the heater assembly.

[0025] The fluid seal may be overmolded on the outside of the heater assembly.

[0026] The fluid seal may be configured to abut against the rim of the end support.

[0027] The end support may define an air inlet at the open end of the heater assembly. The fluid seal may fluidly seal the end support to the heater assembly, thereby and defining a sealed fluid path The air inlet and the heating chamber are into are .

[0028] The heater assembly may include a first portion that defines a heating chamber having a first internal cross-sectional area, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion that forms a passage having a second internal cross-sectional area smaller than the first internal cross-sectional area, and the fluid seal may be between the second portion and the end support.

[0029] The fluid seal may position the heater assembly axially or may position the heater assembly radially.

[0030] The aerosol supply device may include a tubular member extending around the susceptor.

[0031] The fluid seal may be positioned and sealed with the tubular member.

[0032] The fluid seal may be positioned and sealed on the inner surface of the tubular member.

[0033] The tubular member may be fixedly attached to the end support. Also, the tubular member may be mechanically fixed to the end support.

[0034] ​​According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generation assembly for an aerosol generation device is provided, the aerosol generation assembly including a heater assembly configured to receive an aerosol generation material, the heater assembly including a susceptor that can be heated by the intrusion of a variable magnetic field generated by an inductor coil, and an end support that receives one end of the heater assembly, the heater assembly and End support t is , defining a sealed fluid path into defines are .

[0035] The end support may be a first end support having an insertion chamber, the first end support being at a first end of the heater assembly. The assembly may include a second end support at a second end of the heater assembly, and the sealed fluid path extends through the first end support, the heater assembly, and the second end support.

[0036] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device is provided, including a heater assembly through which an air path penetrates and is defined, the heater assembly including a chamber configured to receive an aerosol generation material and a susceptor that can be heated by the intrusion of a variable magnetic field, a heat insulation enclosure surrounding the heater assembly, the heat insulation enclosure including a first support at a first end of the heater assembly having an insertion chamber communicating with the air path and a second support at a second end of the heater assembly, and an inductor coil extending around the heat insulation enclosure and configured to generate a variable magnetic field, the heat insulation enclosure being integrally formed.

[0037] The heat insulation enclosure may include the first support, the second support, and an intermediate tubular member.

[0038] The first support, the second support, and the intermediate tubular member may be sealably fixed to each other.

[0039] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol supply system including an aerosol supply device as described above and an article containing an aerosol generating material, the article being dimensioned to be at least partially received within a heater assembly.

[0040] In use, the inductor coil may be configured to heat the susceptor to a temperature of about 200°C to about 300°C. In use, the inductor coil may be configured to heat the susceptor to a temperature of about 350°C.

[0041] The inductor coil may be substantially helical. The inductor coil may be a helical coil. For example, the inductor coil may be composed of a wire such as a Litz wire wound helically around a coil support.

[0042] The "outer surface" of an actual object means the surface that is farthest from the axis in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the susceptor. Similarly, the "inner surface" of an actual object means the surface that is closest to the axis in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the susceptor.

[0043] The "thickness" of an actual object means the average distance between the inner surface and the outer surface of the object. The thickness may be measured in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the susceptor.

[0044] The inductor coil, the susceptor, and the heat insulating member may be coaxial.

[0045] In some examples, in use, the inductor coil is configured to heat the susceptor to a temperature of about 200°C to about 350°C (such as about 240°C to about 300°C or about 250°C to about 280°C). When the outer cover is separated from the susceptor by at least this distance, the temperature of the outer cover is maintained at a safe level of less than about 60°C, less than about 50°C, less than about 48°C, or less than about 43°C.

[0046] One or more of the coil support, the barrier member, the first end support, and the second end support may be made of a heat insulating material such as, for example, plastic. In a specific example, the coil support is composed of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). PEEK has excellent heat insulation properties and is well-suited for use in an aerosol supply device.

[0047] In another example, the coil support, the barrier member, the first end support, and the second end support may include mica or mica-glass ceramic.

[0048] The coil support, the barrier member, the first end support, and the second end support may have a thermal conductivity of less than about 0.5 W / mK or less than about 0.4 W / mK. For example, the thermal conductivity may be about 0.3 W / mK. PEEK has a thermal conductivity of about 0.32 W / mK.

[0049] The coil support, the barrier member, the first end support, and the second end support may have a melting point of greater than about 320 °C (greater than about 300 °C or greater than about 340 °C). PEEK has a melting point of 343 °C.

[0050] This device may be a tobacco heating device, also known as a non-combustion heating device.

[0051] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, which is shown by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0052]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0053] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating material" includes materials that normally provide volatile components when heated, in the form of an aerosol. The aerosol generating material includes any tobacco-containing material, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Also, other non-tobacco products are included as the aerosol generating material, and depending on the product, it may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. Also, the aerosol generating material may be a combination or mixture of materials. Also, the aerosol generating material may be known as a "smoking material".

[0054] Devices are known that form an aerosol that can be inhaled, usually without burning (burn or combust) the aerosol-generating material, by heating the aerosol-generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating material. Such devices may be described as "aerosol generating devices", "aerosol supply devices", "non-combustion heating devices", "tobacco heating product devices", or "tobacco heating devices", among others. Similarly, there are so-called e-cigarette devices that vaporize an aerosol-generating material, which may or may not contain nicotine, usually in liquid form. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a part such as a rod, cartridge, or cassette that can be inserted into the device, or it may be provided as part of it. The heater that heats and volatilizes the aerosol-generating material may be provided as a "permanent" part of the device.

[0055] An aerosol supply device can receive and heat an article containing an aerosol-generating material. In this context, an "article" is a component that, during use, comprises or contains an aerosol-generating material and is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material and optionally other components during use. After the user inserts the article into the aerosol supply device, the aerosol supply device may be heated to generate an aerosol that the user can inhale later. The article may be of a predetermined size, for example configured to be placed within a heating chamber of a device sized to receive the article, or of a specific size.

[0056] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol supply device 100 that generates an aerosol from an aerosol-generating medium / material. Generally, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol-generating medium to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that can be inhaled by a user of the device 100.

[0057] Device 100 includes a housing 102 (including an outer cover) that surrounds and houses various components of the device 100. The device 100 has an opening 104 at one end through which an article 110 can be inserted and heated by a heater assembly 105 (see FIG. 2). In use, the article 110 may be fully or partially inserted into the heater assembly 105 and heated by one or more components of the heater assembly 105.

[0058] Also, the device 100 may include a user-operable control element 112, such as a button or switch, that operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, the user may turn on the device 100 by operating the switch 112.

[0059] The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 101.

[0060] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded view of the device 100 of FIG. 1. The device 100 includes an outer cover 102, a first end member 106, and a second end member 116. The device 100 includes an aerosol generating assembly 111 that includes a housing 109, a power source 118, and a heater assembly 105. The device 100 further includes at least one electronic device module 122.

[0061] The outer cover 102 forms part of a device shell 108. The first end member 106 is disposed at one end of the device 100, and a second end member 116 is disposed at the opposite end of the device 100. The first and second end members 106, 116 close the outer cover 102. The first and second end members 106, 116 form part of the shell 108. The device 100 of the embodiment includes a lid (not shown) that can close the opening 104 by moving relative to the first end member 106 when the article 110 is not in place.

[0062] In addition, the device 100 may include electrical components such as a connector / port 114 that can receive a cable and charge the battery of the device 100. For example, the connector 114 may be a charging port such as a USB charging port. In some examples, the connector 114 may be used for data transfer between the device 100 and another device such as a computer device, additionally or alternatively.

[0063] The device 100 includes a housing 109. The housing 109 is received by an outer cover 102. The aerosol generating assembly 111 includes a heater assembly 105 into which all or part of the article 110 can be inserted during use, and the article 110 may be heated by one or more components of the heater assembly 105. The aerosol generating assembly 111 and the power source 118 are mounted on the housing 109. The housing 109 is an integral (one-piece) component.

[0064] The housing 109 may be integrally formed during manufacture, for example, by an injection molding process. Alternatively, after two or more features of the housing 109 are initially formed separately, an integral component may be formed by integral formation during the manufacturing stage, for example, by a welding process.

[0065] The integral component represents a component of the device 100 that cannot be separated into two or more components after assembly of the device 100. Integral formation relates to two or more features that are formed as an integral component during the manufacturing stage of the component.

[0066] The first and second end members 106, 116 integrally at least partially define an end face of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 at least partially defines the bottom surface of the device 100. Also, an edge of the outer cover 102 may define a part of the end face. The first and second end members 116 close the open end of the outer cover 102. The second end member 116 is at one end of the housing 109.

[0067] The end of the device 100 closest to the opening 104 is closest to the user's mouth during use and may thus be known as the proximal end (or the mouth-side end) of the device 100. During use, the user inserts the article 110 into the opening 104, operates the user control 112 to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating material, and utilizes the aerosol generated by the device. Thereby, the aerosol flows through the device 100 towards the proximal end of the device 100 along the flow path.

[0068] The other end of the device farthest from the opening 104 is the end that is farthest from the user's mouth during use and may thus be known as the distal end of the device 100. When the user utilizes the aerosol generated by the device, the aerosol flows in a direction towards the proximal end of the device 100. The terms proximal and distal applied to the features of the device 100 will be described by referring to the relative arrangement of such features in the proximal-distal direction along the axis 101.

[0069] The power source 118 is disposed at the distal end of the device 100. The housing 109 houses the power source 118. The housing 109 includes a power source attachment portion 119. The housing 109 partially surrounds the power source 118. The power source 118 may be a battery such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery, for example. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the aerosol-generating assembly 111, supplies power as needed, and heats the aerosol-generating material under the control of the control device 121. In this example, the battery is connected to the housing 109 that acts as a central support for holding the battery 118 in place.

[0070] The power source 118 and the aerosol generation assembly 111 are arranged as an axial configuration, with the power source 118 disposed at the distal end of the device 100 and the aerosol generation assembly 111 disposed at the proximal end of the device 100. Other configurations are envisioned. The housing 109 includes an aerosol generation assembly attachment portion 113.

[0071] The device 100 further includes at least one electronic device module 122. The electronic device module 122 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB) 123. The PCB 123 may support at least one control device 121, such as a processor, and a memory. Further, the PCB 123 may include one or more electrical tracks that electrically integrally connect various electronic components of the device 100. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB 123 so as to enable power distribution throughout the device 100. Also, the connector 114 may be electrically coupled to the battery 118 via an electrical track. The housing 109 includes a PCB attachment portion 117.

[0072] The aerosol generation assembly 111 is an induction heating assembly and includes various components that heat the aerosol generation material of the article 110 by an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductor (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may include an induction element (for example, one or more inductor coils) and a device that passes an alternating current or other fluctuating current through the induction element. The fluctuating current in the induction element generates a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field penetrates into a susceptor suitably arranged with respect to the induction element and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. Since the susceptor has an electrical resistance to the eddy currents, the susceptor is heated by Joule heating due to the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance. Further, when the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by the magnetic hysteresis loss of the susceptor, that is, the fluctuating orientation of the magnetic dipoles of the magnetic material as a result of alignment with the fluctuating magnetic field. In induction heating, heat is generated inside the susceptor, for example, as compared with heating by conduction, so rapid heating is possible. Further, since no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor, the degrees of freedom in configuration and application increase.

[0073] Figure 3 shows a partially enlarged side sectional view showing a part of the device 100. The outer cover 102 surrounds the aerosol generation assembly 111. The aerosol generation assembly 111 of the device 100 includes a heater assembly 105 and an inductor coil assembly 127. The inductor coil assembly 127 extends around the heater assembly 105. The inductor coil assembly 127 includes a first inductor coil 124 and a second inductor coil 126. Further, the inductor coil assembly 127 includes a coil support 200.

[0074] The heater assembly 105 comprises a susceptor structure 132 (referred to herein as the "susceptor"). Since the susceptor 132 of this example is hollow, it defines a receptacle 131 for receiving the aerosol - generating material. For example, an article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 132 is tubular with a circular cross - section. The susceptor 132 defines a first part of the heater assembly 105. The susceptor 132 has a substantially constant diameter along its axial length. The susceptor 132 has a flare portion 134 at its proximal end 133, which is the first end. The flare portion 134 extends outward. The flare portion 134 defines an outward - extending lip 135. That is, the lip 135 has a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the main part of the susceptor 132. The lip 135 acts to minimize contact of the susceptor 132 with other components at the first end 133. This configuration helps to reduce heat transfer, for example, by conduction, when the susceptor 132 is heated. In an embodiment, the heater assembly 105 comprises a susceptor and a receptacle. The susceptor may be a different mechanism from the receptacle.

[0075] The susceptor 132 is formed of a conductive material suitable for heating by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor in this example is formed of carbon steel. It will be understood that other suitable materials (e.g., ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel, or cobalt) can also be used.

[0076] In other embodiments, the features that function as the receptacle may not be limited to inductive heating. Thus, the features that function as the heating element may be heatable by electrical resistance. For this reason, the heater assembly 105 may comprise electrical contacts that are electrically connected to a device and pass an electrical energy flow through the heating element to electrically activate the heating element.

[0077] Figure 3 shows a portion of the article 110 received in the receptacle 131 provided by the susceptor 132. The susceptor 132 and the article 110 are dimensioned such that the article 110 is received by the susceptor 132. This helps to ensure that heating is most efficient. The article 110 in this example contains an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material is disposed within the susceptor 132. Also, the article 110 may comprise other components such as a filter, a packaging material, and / or a cooling structure.

[0078] Also, the heater assembly 105 comprises a funnel portion 140. The funnel portion 140 is at the distal end 136 which is the second end of the susceptor 132. The funnel portion 140 projects from the susceptor 132. In an embodiment, the susceptor 132 and the funnel portion 140 are integral components.

[0079] The funnel portion 140 has a simple configuration. The funnel portion 140 is at the distal end 136 which is the second end of the susceptor 132. The funnel portion 140 defines a second portion of the heater assembly 105. The funnel portion 140 comprises a first portion 141 of a first diameter and a second portion 142 of a second diameter. An intermediate portion 143 extends between the first and second portions 141, 142. The first portion 141 is tubular and extends in the axial direction. The second portion 142 is tubular and extends in the axial direction. The funnel portion 140 is hollow. The intermediate portion 143 constitutes a shoulder 145. The shoulder 145 acts as a stopper that limits the insertion of the article 110 into the receptacle. The shoulder 145 extends in a substantially vertical plane towards the longitudinal axis 101.

[0080] The first portion 141 has an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the second portion 142. Accordingly, the funnel portion 140 flares from the first portion 141 to the second portion 142. For this reason, the funnel portion 140 decreases in diameter from the susceptor end 148 to the distal end 149. The susceptor 132, which acts as the first portion of the heater assembly, defines a receptacle 131 that forms a heating chamber for the aerosol-forming material. The heating chamber has a first internal cross-sectional area. The second internal cross-sectional area is perpendicular to the axis of the air passage through the susceptor 132. The second portion 142 of the funnel portion 140, which acts as the second portion of the heater assembly 105, defines a passage having a second internal cross-sectional area. The second internal cross-sectional area is perpendicular to the axis of the air passage through the susceptor 132. The second internal cross-sectional area is smaller than the first internal cross-sectional area.

[0081] The receptacle forms the first portion and the funnel portion forms the second portion.

[0082] The funnel portion 140 defines an air passage 146 therethrough. The first portion 141 and the susceptor 132 partially overlap each other at one end of the susceptor 132. In one example, this overlap is from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. In a particular example, the overlap is 2 mm. There are also examples where there is no overlap. In such examples, the susceptor 132 and the funnel portion 140 are adjacent. The first portion 141 overlaps the distal end 136, which is the second end of the susceptor 132. The first portion 141 is substantially cylindrical and has an inner diameter substantially corresponding to the outer diameter of the susceptor 132. The first portion 141 is adjacent to the susceptor 132. A joint 147 is formed between the first portion 141 of the funnel portion 140 and the susceptor 132. The joint 147 aids in forming a heat transfer path between the susceptor 132 and the funnel portion 140.

[0083] The joint 147 is a fluid-tight joint. The fluid seal is formed between the susceptor 132 and the funnel part 140. Therefore, a fluid-tight fluid path is defined between the opposite ends of the susceptor 132 and the funnel part 140. Accordingly, the receptacle defined by the susceptor 132 constitutes a fluid-tight air path including the air passage 146 formed by the funnel part 140.

[0084] In an embodiment, the fluid seal at the joint 147 is formed by a machining joint (e.g., welding). The fluid seal at the joint 147 is formed by a laser welding process, but it will be understood that other methods such as brazing, adhesion, and soldering can be used. The funnel part 140 is formed of a heat transfer material. In an embodiment, the funnel part 140 is formed of carbon steel. In an embodiment, the funnel part is formed of the same material as the susceptor 132. The joint is configured to maintain the fluid seal when the susceptor 132 is at its predetermined operating temperature. By such a process, the susceptor 132 and the funnel part 140 are fabricated as an integral component.

[0085] Therefore, the susceptor 132 and funnel part 14 of 0 The sealed fluid path extends from one open end of the heater assembly 105 through the heater assembly 105 to the other open end of the heater assembly 105. For this reason, any fluid flow through the heater assembly 105 is included in the heater assembly 105. A drying zone may be defined outside the heater assembly 105.

[0086] By the adjacency of the susceptor 132 and the funnel part 140, heat transfer by conduction from the susceptor 132 to the funnel part 140 is achieved. Therefore, it is possible to assist the passive heating of the funnel part 140. By the passive heating of the funnel part 140, it is possible to limit the accumulation rate of condensate in the device 100.

[0087] The funnel portion 140 is axially spaced from the inductor coil assembly 127. In particular, the second portion 142 of the funnel portion 140 is axially spaced from the inductor coil assembly 127. Thus, direct heating of the funnel portion 140 by the inductor coil assembly 127 is minimized or eliminated. The funnel portion 140 may be adjacent to the inductor coil assembly 127 in the axial direction.

[0088] Referring particularly to FIGS. 4-8, the device 100 includes a first end support 220 and a second end support 230. The heater assembly 105 extends between the first and second end supports 230. A barrier member 250 extends between the first end support 220 and the second end support 230. The barrier member 250 acts as a support member.

[0089] The first end support 220 engages the proximal end, which is the first end of the heater assembly 105, to hold the susceptor 132 in place. The first end support 220 acts as an expansion chamber, as will be described later. Referring particularly to FIGS. 7 and 8, the first end support 220 extends away from the first end of the susceptor 132 toward the opening 104. At least a portion of a holding structure 221, such as a holding clip, for holding adjacent to the article 110 when received within the device 100, is disposed within the first end support 220. The first end support 220 is connected to the end member 106.

[0090] The first end support 220 includes an insertion chamber 222. The insertion chamber 222 is configured to receive the article 110 therein. The holding structure 221 is in the insertion chamber 222. The insertion chamber 222 has an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the article 110. The first end support 220 constitutes the proximal collar which is the first collar of the heater assembly 105. A perforation 223 extends therein. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a distal opposing shoulder 225 is defined on the inner surface of the perforation 223. The distal opposing shoulder 225 is aligned with the lip 135 of the susceptor when the susceptor 132 is received by the first end support 220.

[0091] Referring particularly to FIGS. 4 and 5 here, the first end support 220 constitutes a seal rim 226 on the distal side of the first end support 220. The distal seal rim 226 extends around the perforation 223. A first attachment flange 227 extends from the proximal end outer surface 228 which is the outer surface of the first end of the first end support 220. The first attachment flange 227 extends circumferentially and is spaced from the seal rim 226. The first attachment flange 227 stands upright from the first end outer surface 228 to constitute a proximal end attachment surface 229 which is the first end attachment surface. The proximal end outer surface 228 which is the outer surface of the first end and the first end attachment surface 229 define a stepped configuration. The first end attachment surface 229 has a diameter larger than that of the first end outer surface 228. In an embodiment, the first end outer surface 228 and the first end attachment surface define first and second stepped surfaces.

[0092] With particular reference to FIGS. 4 - 8, device 100 further includes a second end support 230 that holds the heater assembly 105 in place by engaging a funnel portion 140 at the distal end, which is the second end of susceptor 132. The second end support 230 constitutes the distal collar, which is the second collar of the heater assembly 105. In embodiments where the funnel portion is omitted, the second end support 230 engages directly with the susceptor 132. The second end support 230 acts as an air inlet, as will be described later. The second end support 230 extends away from the second end of the susceptor 132 towards the distal end of the device 100.

[0093] With particular reference to FIGS. 4 and 6, the second end support 230 includes a second end perforation 231. The second end perforation 231 acts as an air inlet. The air inlet defines a flow path through the second end support 230. The air inlet communicates with the exterior of the aerosol generating assembly 111 to provide an air path to the exterior of the device 100. The second end support 230 is configured to at least partially receive the funnel portion 140. The inner surface of the second end support 230 is stepped. The inner surface includes a first stepped region 232 with a first step and a second stepped region 233 with a second step. The first stepped region 232 receives the first portion 141 of the funnel portion 140. The second stepped region 233 receives the second portion 142 of the funnel portion 140. The second stepped region 233 includes a first seal surface 234. The second stepped region 233 includes a second seal surface 235. The first seal surface 234 is an internal circumferentially extending surface. The second seal surface 235 is a circumferentially extending surface that extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 101.

[0094] From the distal outer surface 238, which is the second outer surface of the second end support 230, a second attachment flange 237 extends. The second attachment flange 237 extends circumferentially and is spaced from the proximal end of the second end support 230. The second attachment flange 237 stands upright from the second end outer surface 238 and constitutes a distal end attachment surface 239, which is the second end attachment surface. The distal end outer surface 238, which is the second end outer surface, and the distal end attachment surface 239, which is the second end attachment surface, define a stepped configuration. The second end attachment surface 239 has a larger diameter than the second end outer surface 238. In an embodiment, the second end outer surface 238 and the second end attachment surface 239 define first and second stepped surfaces.

[0095] The barrier member 250 extends between the first end support 220 and the second end support 230. The barrier member 250 extends between the first and second end supports 220, 230. The barrier member 250, together with the first and second end supports 220, 230, surrounds the heater assembly 105. This serves to assist in the thermal isolation of the heater assembly 105 from other components of the device 100. The barrier member 250 is a hollow tubular member.

[0096] The barrier member 250 is fixedly attached to the first and second end supports 220, 230. The first and second end supports 220, 230 are received at the ends of the barrier member 250. The first end support 220 closes the proximal end of the barrier member 250. The second end support 230 closes the distal end of the barrier member 250. The barrier member 250 partially overlaps with the first and second end supports 220, 230. In one example, this overlap is from about 2 mm to about 3 mm. In a particular example, the overlap is about 2.2 mm. There are also examples where there is no overlap. The proximal end of the barrier member 250 is adjacent to the first end outer surface 228. The distal end of the barrier member 250 is adjacent to the second end outer surface 238.

[0097] The barrier member 250 is fixedly attached to the first and second end supports 220, 230. The barrier member 250 forms a fluid seal with the first and second end supports 220, 230. In an embodiment, a machining bond (e.g., welding) is formed between the barrier member 250 and each of the first and second end supports 220, 230. The fluid seal at the component joints is formed by a welding process such as PEEK welding, although it will be understood that other methods such as brazing and adhesion can be used. In an embodiment, the barrier member 250 and the first and second end supports 220, 230 are formed of the same material. The above connection is configured to maintain a fluid seal when the susceptor 132 is at its predetermined operating temperature. By such a process, the barrier member 250 and the first and second end supports 220, 230 are formed as an integral component.

[0098] In an embodiment, the barrier member 250 aids in limiting interference with magnetic induction by being formed of a non-metallic material. In this particular example, the barrier member 250 is composed of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The first and second end supports 220, 230 are composed of PEEK. Other suitable materials are possible. Components formed of such materials help the barrier member 250 maintain rigidity / solidity when the susceptor is heated. The barrier member 250 aids in supporting other components such as the heater assembly 105 and the end supports 220, 230 by being formed of a rigid material. The barrier member 250 may be composed of an insulating material such as plastic, for example. In one example, the thickness of the barrier member 250 is from about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm. In this example, the thickness is about 0.3 mm.

[0099] The heater assembly 105, the barrier member 250, and the first and second end supports 220, 230 are coaxial about the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132. The barrier member 250 can help insulate various components of the device 100 from the heat generated in the susceptor 132.

[0100] A radial gap is provided between the susceptor 132 and the first end support 220. The diameter of the perforation 223 is larger than the diameter of the outer surface of the susceptor 132. The radial gap is about 0.2 mm, but it may be different. Providing the radial gap helps to minimize heat transfer between the susceptor 132 and the first end support 220.

[0101] Referring particularly to FIGS. 4-6 here, the first seal member 240 forms a fluid seal between the heating assembly (heater assembly) 105 and the first end support 220. The first seal member 240 is a circumferentially extending member. The first seal member 240 includes a silicone rubber seal. Other suitable materials can be used. The first seal member 240 is elastic. This material is configured to stabilize when the heater assembly 105 is at the operating temperature. The first seal member 240 is fixedly mounted on the susceptor 240. The first seal member 240 is attached to the susceptor 132, for example, by overmolding the first seal member 240 onto the outer surface of the susceptor 132. The first seal member 240 is spaced apart from the proximal end of the susceptor 132. When the proximal end of the susceptor 132 is received by the first end support 220, the seal rim 226 of the first end support 220 contacts the first seal member 240 to perform a seal. Such a seal is formed between the first end support 220 and the susceptor 220. The first seal member 240 forms an axial seal.

[0102] The first seal member 240 seals in contact with the barrier member 250. The first seal member 240 stands upright from the susceptor 132. The first seal member 240 is adjacent to the inner surface of the barrier member 250. Accordingly, a seal is formed between the susceptor 132 and the barrier member 250. The first seal member 240 forms a radial seal. The first seal member 240 acts to position and orient the susceptor with respect to the first end support 220 and the barrier member 250.

[0103] The second seal member 245 forms a fluid seal between the heating assembly (heater assembly) 105 and the second end support 230. The second seal member 245 is a circumferentially extending member. The second seal member 245 includes a silicone rubber seal. Other suitable materials can be used. The second seal member 245 is elastic. This material is configured to stabilize when the heater assembly 105 is at the operating temperature. The second seal member 245 is fixedly mounted to the funnel portion 140. In an embodiment, the second seal member is in the susceptor 132, for example, the funnel portion is omitted. The second seal member 245 is attached to the susceptor 132, for example, by overmolding the second seal member 245 onto the outer surface of the funnel portion 140. The second seal member 245 is adjacent to the open end of the funnel portion 140. When the distal end of the heater assembly is received by the second end support 230, the first seal surface 234 of the second end support 230 contacts the second seal member 245 to effect a seal. Such a seal is formed between the second end support 230 and the heater assembly 105. The second seal member 245 forms a radial seal.

[0104] The second seal member 245 contacts the second seal surface 235 of the second end support 230 to effect a seal. The second seal member 245 forms an axial seal. The second seal member 245 stands upright from the heater assembly 105. The second seal member 245 acts to position and orient the heater assembly 105 with respect to the second end support 230 and the barrier member 250.

[0105] In an embodiment, the first seal member 240 is at the first end support 220 and seals together with the heater assembly 105. In an embodiment, the second seal member 245 is at the second end support 230 and seals together with the heater assembly 105. The second seal member 245 is at the second portion 142 of the funnel portion 140. In an embodiment, the second seal member 245 is at the first portion 141 of the funnel portion 140. In such an embodiment, the second seal member 245 seals the proximal rim of the second end support 230.

[0106] The first seal member 240 and the second seal member 250 constitute a sealed air flow path passing through the second seal member 250, the heater assembly 105, and the first seal member 240. The barrier member 250 and the first and second end supports 220, 230 constitute a continuously sealed enclosure for the heater assembly 105. The barrier member 250 is spaced apart from the susceptor 132. The inner surface of the barrier member 250 is disposed away from the outer surface of the susceptor 132, providing a gap between the barrier member 250 and the heater assembly 105. The gap provides insulation from the heat generated at the susceptor 132.

[0107] A fluidly sealed cavity 260 is formed between the heater assembly 105 and the barrier member 105. The fluidly sealed cavity 260 constitutes a chamber. The cavity 260 provides a void. A fluidly sealed enclosure 261 is formed around a portion of the heater assembly 105. The fluidly sealed enclosure is formed by the barrier member 105, the first and second seal members 240, 245, the heater assembly 105, and the second end support 230. In some embodiments, the first end support 220 constitutes a part of the enclosure 261. In some embodiments, the fluidly sealed enclosure 261 is formed by the barrier member 105, the heater assembly 105, and the first and second seal members 240, 245. In an embodiment, the gap between the heater assembly 105 and the barrier member 105 is about 0.8 mm to 1 mm. In an embodiment, the gap is about 0.9 mm.

[0108] A sensor such as a thermocouple 265 is disposed in the fluidly sealed cavity 260. The thermocouple 265 is mounted on the susceptor 132. The thermocouple 265 is configured to determine the temperature of the susceptor 132. The thermocouple 265 directly detects the temperature of the susceptor 132. The device 100 may include two or more thermocouples 132 configured to determine the temperature of the susceptor 132. Providing the fluidly sealed cavity 260 helps to isolate the thermocouple 265 from the atmosphere outside the fluidly sealed cavity 260. Providing the fluidly sealed cavity 260 helps to isolate the thermocouple 265 from the air flow path through the device 100. Thus, the flow of condensate from the air flow path to the thermocouple 265 is restricted.

[0109] Referring particularly to FIGS. 9 and 10, the inductor coil assembly 127 includes a first inductor coil 124 and a second inductor coil 126. The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are composed of a conductive material. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are composed of Litz wire / cable wound in a spiral to provide helical inductor coils 124, 126. The Litz wire comprises a plurality of individual wires that are individually insulated and form a single wire by an integral twist. The Litz wire is designed to suppress the skin effect loss of the conductor. In the exemplary device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are composed of copper Litz wire having a circular cross-section. In other examples, the Litz wire may have a cross-section of other shapes, such as rectangular. The number of inductor coils may vary. For example, in an embodiment, the inductor coil assembly 127 may include a single inductor coil. The first or second inductor coil may be omitted.

[0110] The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first alternating magnetic field that heats a first portion of the susceptor 132 (see FIG. 4), and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second alternating magnetic field that heats a second portion of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 101 of the device 100 (i.e., the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 do not overlap). The susceptor structure 132 may comprise a single susceptor or two or more separate susceptors. The ends 130 of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are connectable to the PCB 123 (see FIG. 2).

[0111] In some examples, it will be apparent that the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may have at least one characteristic that is different from each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have at least one characteristic that is different from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, as an example, the first inductor coil 124 may have an inductance value that is different from the second inductor coil 126. In FIGS. 3 and 4, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 have different lengths such that the portion of the first inductor coil 124 wound around the susceptor 132 is smaller than the second inductor coil 126. For this reason, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different number of turns than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 may be composed of a material different from the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may be substantially the same.

[0112] In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in the same direction. The inductor coils may be adapted to operate at different timings. For example, initially, the first inductor coil 124 may be operative to heat the first portion of the article 110, and subsequently, the second inductor coil 126 may be operative to heat the second portion of the article 110. In an embodiment, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps to suppress the current induced in the non-operating coil when used in conjunction with a particular type of control circuit. In such an example, the first inductor coil 124 may be a right-handed helix, and the second inductor coil 126 may be a left-handed helix. In another embodiment, the first inductor coil 124 may be a left-handed helix, and the second inductor coil 126 may be a right-handed helix.

[0113] It will be appreciated that the number of inductor coils may be different. In an embodiment, device 100 comprises a single inductor coil.

[0114] Device 100 comprises a coil support 200 that acts as a support member. The support member may be generally tubular and may at least partially surround susceptor 132. Support member 200 supports first and second inductor coils 124, 126. In FIG. 4, coil support 200 is shown in cross section. FIG. 9 is a side view of coil support 200, showing it with various components of device 100 omitted. Also, coil support 200 is shown in FIG. 10.

[0115] Coil support 200 extends between first and second end supports 220, 230. Coil support 200, together with first and second end supports 220, 230, surrounds heater assembly 105. This serves to assist in the thermal isolation of heater assembly 105 from other components of device 100. Coil support 200 is a hollow tubular member.

[0116] In an embodiment, coil support 200 is formed of a non-metallic material to assist in limiting interference with magnetic induction. In a particular example, coil support 200 is composed of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Other suitable materials are possible. According to a coil support formed of such a material, when the susceptor is heated, it ensures that the assembly maintains rigidity / solidity. Coil support 200 assists in supporting other components such as coils 124, 126 by being formed of a rigid material. Coil support 200 may be composed of an insulating material such as plastic, for example. In one example, coil support 200 has a thickness of 1 mm to 1.5 mm. In this example, the thickness is about 1.3 mm. Coil support 200 is of an integral configuration. In an embodiment, the coil support is an assembly of two or more parts.

[0117] The coil support 200 acts as a secondary housing that aids in the assembly of the device 100. The coil support 200 constitutes a secondary housing that can be mounted on the housing 109. The coil support 200 acts as an attachment structure for other mechanisms of the aerosol generation assembly 111.

[0118] In particular, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 9, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are arranged around and adjacent to the coil support 200. The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are on the radially outer surface 201 of the coil support 200. In an embodiment, the first and second inductor coils are on the radially inner surface 202 of the coil support 200.

[0119] The susceptor 132, the coil support 200, and the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are coaxial about the central longitudinal axis 101 of the susceptor 132. The coil support 200 can help insulate various components of the device 100 from the heat generated in the susceptor 132.

[0120] The coil support 200 has an outer surface 203. The outer surface 203 is spaced apart from the outer cover 102. The coil support 200 is spaced apart from the heater assembly 105. The coil support 200 has an inner surface that is disposed away from the outer surface 203 of the susceptor 132.

[0121] The coil support 200 is fixedly attached to the first and second end supports 220, 230. The first and second end supports 220, 230 are received at the ends of the coil support 200. The first end support 220 closes the proximal end of the coil support 200. The second end support 230 closes the distal end of the coil support 200. The coil support 200 partially overlaps with the first and second end supports 220, 230. The proximal end of the barrier member 250 is adjacent to the first end outer surface 228. The distal end of the barrier member 250 is adjacent to the second end outer surface 238. The proximal end of the coil support 200 overlaps with the proximal end attachment surface 229 which is the first end attachment surface of the first end support 220. The distal end of the coil support 220 overlaps with the distal end attachment surface 229 which is the second end attachment surface of the second end support 230.

[0122] The coil support 200 is fixedly attached to the first and second end supports 220, 230. The coil support 200 is held between the first and second end supports 220, 230. In an embodiment, the coil support 200 is fixed in place by a mechanical joining such as welding or adhesion. In an embodiment, the coil support 200 and the first and second end supports 220, 230 are formed of the same material.

[0123] Referring particularly to FIGS. 3, 4, 9, and 10, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are aligned at the coil support 200 by the coil support 200. That is, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are held in a specific arrangement relative to the coil support 200 by the mechanism of the coil support 200. As an example, the alignment mechanism is the channel 205. The channel 205 is formed in the radially outer surface 201 of the coil support 200. The channel 205 is a spiral channel 205. The channel 205 receives the first and second inductor coils 124, 126. The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are held by the channel 205. The channel 205 follows a certain spiral path. The channel 205 is wound multiple times around the coil support 200. The channel 205 acting as an alignment mechanism provides a consistent path for the coils 214, 216, such as a consistent spacing. This helps to maximize the performance of the inductor coil assembly and / or achieve predetermined characteristics of the coils.

[0124] The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are each aligned in a spiral arrangement at the coil support 200. As an example, one of the inductor coils may be omitted. The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 each follow a spiral path. The windings of the spiral paths of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are equally spaced.

[0125] In an embodiment, the spiral channel 205 is formed by a groove in the outer surface 203 of the support coil 200. In an embodiment, the spiral channel 205 is formed by a pair of adjacent ridges extending in a spiral arrangement. The ridges may be discontinuous and may be formed by a plurality of protrusions. The protrusions may define a spiral path in which the support coil is received and held.

[0126] The coil support 200 includes a spiral recess 206 between adjacent windings of the channel 205. The spiral recess 206 is an elongated groove. As an example, the spiral recess 206 includes a plurality of recesses. As an example, the spiral recess 206 acts as a void. Providing the spiral recess aids in heat transfer limitation. Providing the spiral recess can aid in weight minimization. The spiral recess 206 forms a double spiral configuration with the channel 205. In an embodiment, the spiral recess is omitted. FIGS. 3 and 4 do not show the spiral recess.

[0127] The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are held in the channel 205. Holding mechanisms such as clips, bonding, and overcoats may be used to hold the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 in the channel 205.

[0128] The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are each fully received in the coil support 200. That is, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are each flush with the surface of the coil support 200 or recessed from the surface of the coil support 200. In an embodiment, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 protrude partially from the channel 205.

[0129] The coil support 200 includes a single channel. However, it will be understood that the channel 205 may be separated into two channel portions, one for each of the coils 124, 126. By each channel having one or more different characteristics (e.g., period, width, depth, and length), the alignment between the coils 124, 126 may be different.

[0130] Around the inductor coils 124 and 126, a ferrite shield 280 extends. The ferrite shield acts as an electromagnetic shield. Other suitable materials can be used. The ferrite shield 280 is mounted on the coil support 200. Since the ferrite shield 280 is adjacent to the coil support 200, it may be directly attached to the coil support 200, for example, by adhesion. The channel 205 recesses the coils 124 and 126 into the coil support 200. The inductor coils 124 and 126 are surrounded by the coil support 200 and the ferrite shield 280.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 12, on the coil support 200, a sensor 290 such as a thermocouple is arranged. The coil support 200 includes a sensor attachment portion 291. This aids in the accurate placement of the sensor with respect to the coil, enabling accurate measurement. The attachment portion 291 includes a recess. The attachment portion 291 constitutes an arrangement surface for attaching the thermocouple.

[0132] It will be understood that the alignment mechanism in the above-described embodiment is a channel. However, the channel may be omitted, and the alignment mechanism may be different.

[0133] In the above-described embodiment, a channel 205 and / or other alignment mechanism for aligning the coils is provided on the coil support 200. It will be understood that in some embodiments, the channel and / or other alignment mechanism for aligning the coils may be omitted. In such embodiments, the coil may be attached to the surface of the coil support or assembled around the coil support with a gap therebetween.

[0134] The heater assembly 105, the barrier member 250, and the coil support 200 are coaxial with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132. The coil support 200 can help insulate various components of the device 100 from the heat generated in the susceptor 132.

[0135] The coil support 200 is spaced apart from the susceptor 132. The coil support 200 is spaced apart from the barrier member 250. The barrier member 250 is between the heater assembly 105 and the coil support 200. A heat insulation chamber 270 may be formed between the coil support 200 and the barrier member 250.

[0136] In one example, the distance between the coil support 200 and the barrier member 250 is 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. In this example, the thickness is about 0.9 mm. The coil support 200 acts as a second barrier member. Providing a barrier member that acts as a barrier can help provide a separate chamber that aids in the mutual separation of different components of the device in a spaced-apart arrangement.

[0137] The barrier acts as a heat insulation member. For this reason, the barrier forms part of a heat insulation stack that limits heat transfer from the susceptor 132 to the outside of the aerosol generating assembly 111. The barrier member 250 acts as a first heat insulation member. The coil support 200 acts as a second heat insulation member. A heat insulation layer 271 extends between the barrier member 250 and the coil support 200. The heat insulation layer 271 extends around the barrier member 250. The heat insulation layer 271 is adjacent to the barrier member 250 and the coil support 200.

[0138] In an embodiment, the heat insulation layer 271 is supported by the barrier member 250 and the coil support 200. In some embodiments, the heat insulation layer 271 is supported by the barrier member 250. In such an embodiment, the heat insulation layer 271 may be separated from the coil support 200 by, for example, only a small gap. In some embodiments, the heat insulation layer 271 is supported by the coil support 200. In such an embodiment, the heat insulation layer 271 may be separated from the barrier member 250 by, for example, only a small gap. The heat insulation layer 271 may be attached to one of the barrier member 250 and the coil support 200, or may be attached to both. In an embodiment, the barrier member 250 may be omitted. In an embodiment, the coil support 200 may be integrally formed with the heat insulation layer 271. The heat insulation layer 271 may be omitted. In such an embodiment, a gap is formed between the barrier member 250 and the coil support 200. In such a configuration, the gap acts as a heat insulator.

[0139] The heat insulation layer 271 acts as a third heat insulating member. In an embodiment, the heat insulation layer 271 is a sheet before assembly. In an embodiment, the heat insulation layer 271 is formed around the inner surface of the coil support 200 in a tubular configuration. An end lip 272 (see FIG. 4) helps to hold the heat insulation layer 271. The heat insulation layer 271 is attached to the coil support 20. By way of example, the heat insulation layer 271 is attached to the barrier member 250. The barrier member 250 separates the heat insulation layer 271 from the susceptor 132. The coil support 200 separates the heat insulation layer 271 away from the inductor coils 124, 126.

[0140] The heat insulation stack may be provided by a combination of two or more of the following materials: (i) air (having a thermal conductivity of about 0.02 W / mK), (ii) aerogel (e.g., AeroZero (registered trademark)) (having a thermal conductivity of about 0.03 W / mK to about 0.04 W / mK), (iii) polyetheretherketone (PEEK) (in some examples, may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.25 W / mK), (iv) ceramic cloth (having a specific heat of about 1.13 kJ / kgK), (v) thermal pad. Other suitable materials can be used.

[0141] The heat insulation layer 271 is formed of aerogel. Other suitable materials such as porous foam materials can also be used. By providing barrier members on both sides of the aerogel, for example, a protective barrier for the heat insulation layer 271 can be provided. One or more barriers help support the heat insulation layer 271 along its length.

[0142] The combination of the barrier member and the aerogel heat insulation layer assists in restricting heat transfer to the shell of the device 100 in a compact configuration by strengthening the heat insulation structure around the heater assembly 105.

[0143] The heat insulation layer 271 acts as an inner heat insulation layer 273. An outer heat insulation layer 273 extends around the inductor coil assembly 127. The outer heat insulation layer 273 forms a tubular configuration. The outer heat insulation layer 273 is supported by the inductor coil assembly 127. The inner and outer heat insulation layers 271, 273 sandwich the inductor coil assembly 127. The outer heat insulation layer 273 is mounted on the ferrite layer 280. The outer heat insulation layer 273 is attached to the ferrite layer 280, but other attachment configurations are also envisioned. By providing the outer heat insulation layer 273, heat insulation of a predetermined thickness can be used while the distance between the coil and the susceptor 132 can be changed. The outer heat insulation layer 273 is formed of aerogel. Other suitable materials (e.g., porous foam materials) can also be used.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 11, the first end support 220 protrudes from the proximal end of the coil support 200. The second end support 230 protrudes from the distal end of the coil support 200. The first end support 220 is axially aligned. The second end support 230 is axially aligned. The aerosol generating assembly 111 is attached to the housing 109. The aerosol generating assembly 111 has its proximal end and distal end attached. The aerosol generating assembly attachment portion 113 of the housing 109 holds the aerosol generating assembly 111. The first placement mechanism 300 places the aerosol generating assembly 111 at the proximal end, which is the first end, in the housing 109. The second placement mechanism 301 places the aerosol generating assembly 111 at the distal end, which is the second end, in the housing 109.

[0145] The inductor coil end 130 extends from the aerosol generating assembly 111. The inductor coil end 130 is supported by the housing 109. The inductor coil end 130 is connected to the PCB 123.

[0146] In the above example, the susceptor 132 has a thickness 154 of about 0.08 mm. The thickness of the susceptor 132 is the average distance between the inner surface and the outer surface of the susceptor 132 measured in a direction perpendicular to the axis 158.

[0147] In one example, the length of the susceptor 132 is from about 30 mm to about 50 mm or from about 30 mm to about 35 mm. In a particular example, the susceptor 132 has a length of about 34.8 mm and can receive the article 110 containing the aerosol generating material. The length of the aerosol generating material and the susceptor 132 is measured in a direction parallel to the axis 101.

[0148] The outer cover 102 protects the internal components of the device and generally comes into contact with the user's hand during use of the device. The outer cover 102 has an inner surface and an outer surface.

[0149] In some cases, when an inductor coil is used for magnetic field induction, it may heat itself, for example, due to resistive heating caused by current passing through for magnetic field induction. Providing a heat insulation layer between the inductor coil and the outer cover helps insulate the heated inductor coil from the outer cover. The ferrite shield helps insulate the outer cover. It has been found that when the ferrite shield contacts and at least partially surrounds one or more inductor coils, the surface temperature of the outer cover can be reduced by about 3°C.

[0150] The inner surface of the outer cover may be arranged at a distance of about 2 mm to about 3 mm from the outer surface of the heat insulation member. This size of separation distance has been found to provide sufficient heat insulation so that the outer cover does not get too hot. Air may be present between the outer surface of the heat insulation member and the outer cover.

[0151] The inner surface of the outer cover may be arranged at a distance of about 0.2 mm to about 1 mm from the outer surface of the inductor coil.

[0152] The inner surface of the inductor coil may be arranged at a distance of about 3 mm to about 4 mm from the outer surface of the susceptor. In a specific example of this case, this distance is about 3.2 mm.

[0153] The outer cover may contain aluminum.

[0154] The outer cover may have a thermal conductivity of about 140 W / mK to about 220 W / mK. For example, the thermal conductivity of aluminum is around 209 W / mK.

[0155] The outer cover may have a thickness of about 0.4 mm to about 2 mm. The outer cover can act as a heat insulation barrier.

[0156] The susceptor 132, the barrier member 250, and the coil support 200 each have a circular cross-section, but the cross-section may be of any other shape and, in some cases, may be different from each other.

[0157] The above-described embodiments shall be understood as exemplary examples of the present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention are also conceivable. It is understood that any feature described with respect to any one embodiment can be used alone or in combination with other described features, and can also be used in combination with one or more features of any other or any combination thereof of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and improvements not described above as defined in the appended claims can be employed without departing from the scope of the present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention include, for example, those described in the following clauses. Clause 1 A heater assembly having a heating chamber configured to receive an aerosol-generating material, the heater assembly comprising a susceptor that can be heated by the intrusion of a variable magnetic field, An inductor coil extending around the susceptor and configured to generate a variable magnetic field, An end support for receiving one end of the heater assembly, A fluid seal provided between the heater assembly and the end support so as to dispose and seal the heater assembly with respect to the end support. An aerosol supply device comprising. Clause 2 The aerosol supply device according to Clause 1, wherein the end support defines an insertion chamber at the open end of the heater assembly, and the fluid seal fluidly seals the end support with the heater assembly so that a sealed fluid path is defined between the insertion chamber and the heating chamber. Clause 3 The end support is a first end support at a first end of the heater assembly, the aerosol supply device includes a second end support at a second end of the heater assembly, the fluid seal is a first fluid seal, the aerosol supply device includes a second fluid seal, and the second fluid seal fluidly seals the second end support to the heater assembly. The aerosol supply device according to clause 2. Clause 4 The aerosol supply device according to clause 3, wherein the second end support includes an air inlet, and a sealed fluid path is defined between the air inlet and the heating chamber. Clause 5 The aerosol supply device according to clause 1, wherein the end support defines an air inlet at an open end of the heater assembly, the fluid seal fluidly seals the end support to the heater assembly, whereby a sealed fluid path is defined between the air inlet and the heating chamber. Clause 6 The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the fluid seal positions the heater assembly in at least one of an axial direction and a radial direction. Clause 7 The aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, comprising a tubular member extending around the susceptor, and the fluid seal positions and seals with the tubular member. Clause 8 An aerosol generation assembly for an aerosol generation device, A heater assembly configured to receive an aerosol generation material, the heater assembly comprising a susceptor that can be heated by the intrusion of a variable magnetic field generated by an inductor coil, An end support for receiving one end of the heater assembly, and Comprising, An aerosol generation assembly in which a sealed fluid path is defined between the heater assembly and the end support. Clause 9 The end support is a first end support having an insertion chamber, the first end support is at a first end of the heater assembly, the aerosol generating assembly comprises a second end support at a second end of the heater assembly, and the sealed fluid path extends through the first end support, the heater assembly and the second end support. The aerosol generating assembly according to clause 8. Clause 10 A heater assembly defined by a through air path and comprising a chamber configured to receive an aerosol generating material and a susceptor that can be heated by the intrusion of a variable magnetic field. A heat insulating enclosure surrounding the heater assembly, comprising a first support at a first end of the heater assembly having an insertion chamber communicating with the air path and a second support at a second end of the heater assembly. An inductor coil extending around the heat insulating enclosure and configured to generate a variable magnetic field. An aerosol supply device comprising: The aerosol supply device, wherein the heat insulating enclosure is integrally formed. Clause 11 The aerosol supply device according to clause 10, wherein the heat insulating enclosure comprises the first support, the second support and an intermediate tubular member. Clause 12 An aerosol supply device according to any one of clauses 1 to 7 and 10 to 11, and An article containing an aerosol generating material, the article being dimensioned to be at least partially received within the heater assembly. An aerosol supply system comprising:

Claims

**Claim 1** An aerosol supply device comprising an inductor coil and a heater assembly configured to receive an aerosol generating material, wherein the heater assembly comprises a first part defining a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol generating material, the heating chamber having a first internal cross-sectional area, the first part being heatable by the inductor coil, and a second part adjacent to the first part forming a passage having a second internal cross-sectional area smaller than the first internal cross-sectional area, wherein the first part and the second part define a sealed fluid path extending from one open end of the heater assembly through the heater assembly to the other open end of the heater assembly by forming a fluid seal between the first part and the second part. **Claim 2** The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, comprising a receptacle forming the first part and a funnel part forming the second part. **Claim 3** The aerosol supply device according to claim 2, wherein the receptacle is fluidly sealed to the funnel part at the joint. **Claim 4** The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein the funnel part and the receptacle partially overlap at the joint. **Claim 5** The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first part and the second part are manufactured as an integral component. **Claim 6** The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a first end support defining an insertion chamber at the open end of the first part, wherein the insertion chamber and the heating chamber define the sealed fluid path by forming a fluid seal between the first end support and the first part at the open end. **Claim 7** The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a second end support at the open end of the second part, wherein the second end support is fluidly sealed to the second part at the open end. **Claim 8** ​ ​ Define a heating chamber having a first diameter for receiving an aerosol-generating material, a first portion that can be heated by an inductor coil, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion that forms a passage having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter A heater assembly of an aerosol supply device comprising: The heating chamber and the passage define a sealed fluid path extending from one open end of the heater assembly through the heater assembly to the other open end of the heater assembly by forming a fluid seal between the heating chamber and the passage. Heater assembly.

9. An aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and An article containing an aerosol-generating material, the article being sized to be at least partially received within the heater assembly An aerosol supply system comprising.

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