Aerosol generation device

Abstract

An aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming consumable is provided. The aerosol generation device comprises a housing, a heater element, and a system for causing heating of the heater element. The heater element is movable relative to the housing. The heater element at least partially defines a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol-forming consumable. The heater element is configured to be movable toward or away from the aerosol-forming consumable when the aerosol-forming consumable is received in the heating chamber during use of the heating element, thereby controlling an amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the consumable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and a heater element for an aerosol generating device. Background

[0002]

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning the tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning.

[0003]

[0003] An example of such an article is a heating device that releases compounds by heating rather than burning the material. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine. A heated tobacco or non-tobacco product can volatilize at least one component of the tobacco or non-tobacco product without burning or combusting the tobacco or non-tobacco product, and typically can generate an aerosol that can be inhaled.

[0004]

[0004] A heating device that heats a tobacco or non-tobacco product may also be referred to as a "non-combustion heating" device, or a "tobacco heating product" (THP), or a "tobacco heating device", etc. Various configurations have been attempted to volatilize at least one component of the tobacco or non-tobacco product. Overview

[0005]

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention provides an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming consumable. The aerosol generating device comprises a housing, at least one heater element movable relative to the housing, and a system for causing heating of the heater element, wherein the heater element at least partially defines a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol-forming consumable, and the heater element is configured to control the amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the consumable by being movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable when the aerosol-forming consumable is received in the heating chamber during use of the heater element. The aerosol generating device may have any of the exemplary features described herein.

[0006]

[0006] The use of the heater element may be, for example, during a heating session of the aerosol generating device. In certain examples, the heating session of the aerosol generating device may include a period during which the heating element is not actually heated. In certain examples, the heating session of the aerosol generating device may include a period during which the heating element is heated. In certain examples, the heater element is configured to be movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable when the aerosol-forming consumable is received in the heating chamber during heating of the heater element.

[0007]

[0007] In certain examples, the system for causing heating of the heater element is configured to maintain the heater element at or near a constant temperature during use.

[0008]

[0008] In certain examples, the heater element is configured to move towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable in response to an input.

[0009]

[0009] In certain examples, the aerosol generating device comprises a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the aerosol forming consumable, and the input is the sensed temperature of the aerosol forming consumable.

[0010]

[0010] In certain examples, the heater element is configured to be moved away from the aerosol forming consumable in order to reduce the amount of heat transferred to the aerosol forming consumable.

[0011]

[0011] In certain examples, the input is at least one of a representation of a desired temperature received from a user and set by the user, and an indication of a user inhalation at the aerosol generating device.

[0012]

[0012] In certain examples, the heater element is configured to move towards or away from the aerosol generating consumable by an amount corresponding to the magnitude of the input.

[0013] In certain examples, the heating chamber is substantially tubular.

[0013]

[0014]

[0014] In certain examples, the heating chamber is configured to have a variable internal cross-sectional area such that the heater element is movable towards or away from the aerosol forming consumable.

[0014]

[0015]

[0015] In certain examples, the heating chamber is configured to have a variable inner peripheral surface such that the heater element is movable towards or away from the aerosol forming consumable.

[0015]

[0016]

[0016] In certain examples, the heater element comprises an elongate hollow tube.

[0016]

[0017]

[0017] In certain examples, the elongate hollow tube is defined by a tube wall, and the elongate hollow tube comprises a slit in the tube wall of the elongate hollow tube. In certain examples, the slit extends longitudinally along the elongate hollow tube.

[0017]

[0018] In certain examples, the elongate hollow tube has a substantially circular cross-section.

[0018]

[0019] In certain examples, the elongate hollow tube has a tube wall end defined by a split, and when the heater element moves towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable, the tube wall end is movable in the circumferential direction of the elongate hollow tube. In certain examples, the tube wall ends overlap in the circumferential direction of the elongate hollow tube.

[0019]

[0020] In certain examples, at least one of the tube wall ends of the elongate hollow tube comprises a flange that projects substantially radially from the tube wall end of the elongate hollow tube.

[0020]

[0021] In certain examples, the aerosol-generating device comprises a worm drive for driving the overlapping tube wall ends in the circumferential direction during use to move the heater element towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable.

[0021]

[0022] In certain examples, the elongate hollow tube is defined by a tube wall, the elongate hollow tube comprises two tube wall portions, the tube wall portions are separated by one longitudinal gap in the tube wall of the elongate hollow tube, the tube wall portions form two jaws, and at least one of the jaws is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable during use.

[0022]

[0023] In certain examples, the elongate hollow tube is defined by a tube wall, the elongate hollow tube comprises two tube wall portions, the tube wall portions are separated by two longitudinal gaps in the tube wall of the elongate hollow tube, the tube wall portions form two jaws, and at least one of the jaws is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable during use.

[0023]

[0024] In certain examples, an elongated hollow tube is defined by a tube wall, the elongated hollow tube comprises three tube wall portions, the tube wall portions are separated by three longitudinal gaps in the tube wall of the elongated hollow tube, the tube wall portions form three joints, and at least one of the joints is movable, in use, towards or away from an aerosol-forming consumable.

[0024]

[0025] In certain examples, the heater element portions are integrally formed with each other.

[0025]

[0026] In certain examples, the elongated hollow tube has a substantially circular cross-section and the elongated hollow tube comprises a base portion joining the tube wall portions together.

[0026]

[0027] In certain examples, the elongated hollow tube comprises a flexible wall, the flexible wall is longitudinally compressible and extensible, and in use, the flexible wall is movable in the radial direction of the elongated hollow tube.

[0027]

[0028] In certain examples, the heater element comprises a twistable coiled member having a radially inner surface defining a heating chamber.

[0028]

[0029] In certain examples, the heater element comprises a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous material.

[0029]

[0030] In certain examples, the heater element comprises one or more materials selected from the group consisting of a conductive material, a magnetic material, and a magneto-conductive material.

[0030]

[0031] In certain examples, the heater element comprises a metal or a metal alloy.

[0031]

[0032] In certain examples, the heater element comprises one or more materials selected from the group consisting of aluminum, gold, iron, nickel, cobalt, conductive carbon, graphite, plain carbon steel, stainless steel, ferritic stainless steel, steel, molybdenum, silicon carbide, copper, and bronze.

[0032]

[0033] In certain examples, at least one heater element comprises a plurality of heater elements, and each of the heater elements can be moved, during use, independently of one another towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable.

[0033]

[0034] In certain examples, the system for causing heating of the heater element is an induction heating system. In certain examples, the system for causing heating of the heater element is a resistive heating system.

[0034]

[0035] A second aspect of the present invention provides an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the first aspect and at least one aerosol-forming consumable, the at least one aerosol-forming consumable being of a shape and size such that it can be accommodated in a heating chamber. The aerosol generating device may have any of the exemplary features described herein. The aerosol-forming consumable may have any of the exemplary features described herein.

[0035]

[0036] A third aspect of the present invention provides a method of heating an aerosol-forming consumable. The method includes receiving the aerosol-forming consumable in a heating chamber of an aerosol generating device, the heating chamber being at least partially defined by a heater element movable relative to the housing of the aerosol generating device, and during use of the heater element, moving the heater element towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable to control the amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the consumable.

[0036]

[0037] In certain examples, the temperature of the heater element is maintained at a constant temperature as the heater element moves towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable.

[0037]

[0038] Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description of specific examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038]

[0039] Specific examples will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0039]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

[0040]

[0049] Tobacco and / or non-tobacco products in which at least one component is volatilized may also be referred to as aerosol-forming material(s). An aerosol-forming material is a material that is capable of generating an aerosol when energy is applied thereto, for example by heating, irradiation, or any other method. "Aerosol-forming material" is any suitable material that can generate an aerosol. In a specific example, the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming material may be generated by applying heat to the aerosol-forming material.

[0041]

[0050] The aerosol - generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, a liquid, or a gel, and may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavorant. In some embodiments, the aerosol - generating material may contain an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non - fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can hold some fluid such as a liquid inside. In some embodiments, the aerosol - generating material may contain, for example, from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% of amorphous solid to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of amorphous solid.

[0042]

[0051] The aerosol - generating material may contain one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol - forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0043]

[0052] In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may be a solid. In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may comprise a foam. In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may comprise a thin film.

[0044]

[0053] In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may be a tobacco material. In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may contain a nicotine source and may not contain a tobacco material. In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may contain a tobacco material and a separate nicotine source. In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may not contain a nicotine source. In certain examples, the aerosol - generating material may contain a flavorant.

[0045]

[0054] In examples where the aerosol-generating material comprises a gel, the gel may contain a nicotine source. In some examples, the gel may contain tobacco material. In some cases, the gel may contain tobacco material and a separate nicotine source. For example, the gel may further contain powdered tobacco and / or nicotine and / or tobacco extract.

[0046]

[0055] In certain examples where the aerosol-generating material comprises a gel, the gel may contain a gelling agent. The gelling agent may contain a hydrophilic colloid. In certain examples where the aerosol-generating material comprises a gel, the gel may contain a hydrogel. The gel may further contain a solvent.

[0047]

[0056] In certain examples where an aerosol is generated by heating the aerosol-generating material, the aerosol-generating material may be heated to a temperature between about 50°C and about 250°C or 300°C.

[0048]

[0057] In general, it should be noted that a vapor is a gaseous substance at a temperature lower than its critical temperature. This means that, for example, the vapor can be condensed into a liquid by increasing the pressure of the vapor without lowering the temperature. On the other hand, an aerosol is generally a colloid of fine solid particles or droplets in air or another gas. A colloid is a substance in which microscopically dispersed insoluble particles are suspended throughout another substance.

[0049]

[0058] For convenience, as used herein, the term "aerosol" should be construed to mean an aerosol, a vapor, or a combination of an aerosol and a vapor.

[0050]

[0059] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating material" may, in certain instances, include "aerosol forming agent material", where the aerosol forming agent material represents an accelerator for aerosol generation. For example, if the aerosol generating material includes a gel, the gel may include an aerosol forming agent material. The aerosol forming agent material can promote aerosol generation by facilitating the initial evaporation of the gas and / or the condensation of the gas into inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosols.

[0051]

[0060] The aerosol forming agent material may include one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. Suitable aerosol forming agent materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3 - butylene glycol, erythritol, meso - erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, propylene carbonate. The aerosol forming agent material may preferably have a composition that does not dissolve menthol. The aerosol forming agent material may preferably contain glycerol, consist essentially of glycerol, or consist of glycerol.

[0052]

[0061] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating material" may, in certain instances, include "flavor" which is a material that adds flavor to the generated aerosol. As used herein, the term "flavor" represents a material that can be used to create a desired taste or aroma in products for adult consumers, where permitted by local regulations.

[0053]

[0062] As used herein, the terms "flavor" and "flavoring" represent materials that can be used to create the desired taste, aroma, or other bodily sensations in products for adult consumers, where permitted by local regulations. These include naturally occurring flavor substances, botanical substances, extracts of botanical substances, synthetically obtained substances, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, phoebe leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spice, Asian spice, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, redberry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus, damson, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, hat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, iran iran, sage, fennel, wasabi, pepper, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, peppermint oil of any species of the mint genus, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate tea, orange peel, rose, tea such as green tea and black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, laurel, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damiana, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, calvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphor), flavor enhancers, bitter receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugar and / or alternative sugars (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame,Saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant substances, or breath fresheners may be included. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural components, or mixtures thereof. They may be in any suitable form, such as a liquid like oil, a solid like powder, or a gas.,

[0054]

[0063] In some embodiments, the flavor includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor includes cucumber, blueberry, citrus, and / or redberry flavor components. In some embodiments, the flavor includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from cannabis.

[0055]

[0064] In some embodiments, the flavor may include sensory substances intended to achieve somatosensory sensations that are normally chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve) in addition to or instead of the olfactory or gustatory nerves, and these may include agents that provide heating, cooling, stinging, or numbing effects. Suitable heat effect agents may include, but are not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and suitable cooling agents may include, but are not limited to, eucalyptol and WS-3.

[0056]

[0065] As used herein, the term "tobacco material" represents any material containing tobacco or its derivatives. The term "tobacco material" may include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Tobacco materials may include one or more of shredded tobacco, tobacco fibers, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco stems, reconstituted tobacco, and / or tobacco extracts.

[0057]

[0066] The tobacco used to manufacture the tobacco material may be any suitable tobacco, including Virginia and / or Burley and / or Oriental, single grade or blend, cut rag or whole leaf. Also, "fine powder" or dust of tobacco particles, expanded tobacco, stems, expanded stems, and other processed stem materials, such as cut rolled stems, may be used. The tobacco material may be ground tobacco material or recycled tobacco material. The recycled tobacco material may contain tobacco fibers and may be formed by molding, a fourdrinier paper-making type technique of reverse addition of tobacco extract, or extrusion.

[0058]

[0067] An aerosol-generating material comprising any one or any combination of the above-described features and characteristics may be provided as a consumable. A consumable is an article that contains or consists of an aerosol-generating material, and it is intended that some or all of the aerosol-generating material be consumed by the user during use. A consumable may also be referred to as an aerosol-forming consumable that contains an aerosol-generating material capable of generating an aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol-forming consumable may contain other materials and components in addition to the aerosol-generating material. The consumable may contain one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Further, the consumable may be provided with an aerosol generator, such as a heater that releases heat to generate an aerosol in the aerosol-generating material during use. The heater may contain, for example, a combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor. For example, the aerosol-forming consumable may contain a substrate on which the aerosol-generating material is supported. For example, the aerosol-forming consumable may be provided with a handling mechanism that enables the user to handle the aerosol-forming consumable without touching the aerosol-generating material of the aerosol-forming consumable.

[0059]

[0068] Figure 1 schematically shows an exemplary aerosol generating device 10 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming consumable 100. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 can be an example of an aerosol-forming consumable containing the above-described aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be accommodatable within the device 10.

[0060]

[0069] The aerosol generating device 10 may include a housing 12 for supporting and holding various components of the device 10. In a particular example, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a mouthpiece 20 through which a user of the device 10 can inhale the aerosol generated by the device 10. In a particular example, the aerosol generating device 10 may include an air inlet 30 through which air is drawn when the user inhales the aerosol generated by the device 10. In the example shown in Figure 1, when the user inhales, air can be drawn in the direction of arrow A, and the user can inhale the aerosol in the direction of arrow B. In other examples, the aerosol generating device 10 may not include a mouthpiece. For example, a user of the device 10 may inhale the aerosol generated by the device 10 directly from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 itself.

[0061]

[0070] The aerosol generating device 10 may include a heating chamber 50. The heating chamber 50 may be configured to receive an aerosol-forming consumable 100, such as the example described above, during use. The heating chamber 50 may include an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming consumable 100. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be shaped to fit within the heating chamber 50. In a particular example, the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be a rod, stick, or pod corresponding to the internal shape of the heating chamber 50. The heating chamber 50 may be configured to allow air to exit from the air inlet 30 through the heating chamber 50 to the mouthpiece 20 when the user inhales through the mouthpiece 20. When the user inhales, the air passing through the heating chamber 50 can collect any generated aerosol from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 before entering the user's mouth.

[0062]

[0071] The aerosol generating device 10 may comprise one heater element 40 or a plurality of heater elements 40. In a particular example, the heater element may comprise a plurality of heater element portions. In some examples, the heater element portions may be integrally formed with each other. In some examples, the heater element portions may not be integrally formed with each other and may be separate components of the aerosol generating device. In a particular example where the aerosol generating device 10 comprises one heater element 40, the heating chamber 50 may be at least partially defined by the heater element 40. In a particular example where the aerosol generating device 10 comprises a plurality of heater elements, the heating chamber 50 may be at least partially defined by the plurality of heater elements 40. In another example where the aerosol generating device 10 comprises a plurality of heater elements, a plurality of heating chambers 50 may be provided and may be at least partially defined by the plurality of heater elements 40.

[0063]

[0072] The heater element(s) 40 may be configured to heat the aerosol-forming consumable 100 during use of the device 10. By applying heat to the aerosol-forming consumable 100, the aerosol-forming material contained therein is heated, whereby an aerosol can be generated from the aerosol-forming material. The operation of the heater element 40 may be triggered by a user inhaling air through the device 10, or may be triggered by another means, such as a switch.

[0064]

[0073] In a particular example, the heating chamber 50 may include a lid 60. The lid 60 may be a closable lid. When closed, the lid 60 may enclose the aerosol-forming consumable 100 within the device 10. When closed, the lid 60 may enclose the heating chamber 50 to form a sealed space in which air is drawn by the user from the air inlet 30 to the mouthpiece 20. When closed, the lid 60 may be configured to allow the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 to escape and be drawn into the mouthpiece 20.

[0065]

[0074] The device 10 may include other components not shown in FIG. 1. The aerosol-generating device 10 may include a system for causing heating of the heater element 40. In a particular example, the device 10 may have a power supply unit that holds a power source, such as a battery, for supplying electrical energy to the device 10. The device 10 may have an electrical circuit configuration connected to the power source for conducting electrical energy to other components within the device 10. In a particular example, the circuit configuration may connect the power source to a system for causing heating of the heater element 40.

[0066]

[0075] The heater element 40 may be configured to heat the aerosol-forming material of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 without combustion. In certain examples, the heater element 40 may heat the aerosol-forming consumable 100 by conducting heat to the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In certain examples, the heater element 40 may heat the aerosol-forming consumable 100 by radiating heat to the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In certain examples, the heater element 40 may heat the aerosol-forming consumable 100 by convection of heat to the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0067]

[0076] In certain examples, the heater element 40 may be of a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous material or may comprise a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous material. In certain examples, the heater element 40 may comprise a mixture of materials. In certain examples, the heater element may comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of conductive materials, magnetic materials, and magnetoconductive materials.

[0068]

[0077] In certain examples, the heater element 40 may be made of a metallic material. For example, the heater element may comprise a metal or a metal alloy.

[0069]

[0078] In certain examples, the heater element may comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of aluminum, gold, iron, nickel, cobalt, conductive carbon, graphite, plain carbon steel, stainless steel, ferritic stainless steel, steel, molybdenum, silicon carbide, copper, and bronze.

[0070]

[0079] In certain examples, the heater element 40 may comprise a ceramic. In some examples, the heater element 40 may be made from a mixture of a metallic material and a non-metallic material. For example, the heater element 40 may be made from a metallic material embedded in a ceramic material. The ceramic material may be any suitable ceramic material, for example, but not limited to, at least one of alumina, zirconia, yttria, calcium carbonate, and calcium sulfate.

[0071]

[0080] During use, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 can heat, i.e., raise the temperature of, the heater element 40. Heating of the heater element 40 can be performed by any suitable heating configuration.

[0072]

[0081] In a particular example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may include heating the heater element 40 by conduction. For example, a heat source may be disposed in contact with the heater element 40 and activated during use of the device 10.

[0073]

[0082] In a particular example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may comprise an induction heating system for heating the heater element 40.

[0074]

[0083] Inductive heating is a process of heating a conductive object by electromagnetic induction. This process involves introducing a changing magnetic field that causes heating into the conductive object. This process is explained by Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction and Ohm's law. When a conductive object is used to heat another element, the conductive object may also be referred to as a " susceptor ". A susceptor is a material that can be heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be a conductive material. Thus, when a changing magnetic field penetrates the susceptor, inductive heating of the heating material occurs. The heating material may be a magnetic material. Thus, when a changing magnetic field penetrates the heating material, magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material is caused. The susceptor has both conductivity and magnetism, and the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a changing magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator. The susceptor material can be formed of any suitable susceptor material, such as those specified above, for example, at least one of iron, iron alloys such as stainless steel, mild steel, molybdenum, silicon carbide, aluminum, gold, and copper, or any combination thereof. In a specific example, as used herein, the heater element 40 can be a " susceptor " in that it can be heated by inductive heating and further heat the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Heating of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be performed mainly by conducting or radiating heat from, for example, the heater element 40 to the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0075]

[0084] By arranging the heater element 40 as a susceptor, effective heating of the aerosol-forming consumable 100, which may be substantially non-conductive, can be provided. Further, by arranging the heater element 40 as a susceptor, it may be possible to control the heat pattern of the heat directed towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0076]

[0085] The induction heating system may comprise an electromagnet and a device for passing a changing current, such as an alternating current, through the electromagnet. The changing current in the electromagnet generates a changing magnetic field. The changing magnetic field penetrates into a conductive object appropriately arranged with respect to the electromagnet and generates eddy currents inside the object. The object has an electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and thus the object is heated by Joule heating due to the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance. Joule heating is sometimes also called ohmic heating or resistive heating. When the conductive object is in the form of a closed electrical circuit, it has been found that the magnetic coupling between the object and the electromagnet during use is enhanced, and Joule heating is increased or improved.

[0077]

[0086] Magnetic hysteresis heating is a process in which an object made of a magnetic material is heated by allowing a changing magnetic field to penetrate into the object. A magnetic material can be considered to have many atomic-scale magnets, i.e., magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field penetrates such a material, the magnetic dipoles align with the magnetic field. Thus, when a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field generated by an electromagnet, penetrates into a magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes in response to the changing applied magnetic field. Such reorientation of the magnetic dipoles generates heat within the magnetic material.

[0078]

[0087] When an object has both conductivity and magnetism, both Joule heating and magnetic hysteresis heating may occur in the object when a changing magnetic field penetrates into the object. Furthermore, the use of a magnetic material can strengthen the magnetic field, which can enhance Joule heating and magnetic hysteresis heating. When the heater element 40 contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis loss in the heater element 40, i.e., by the change in the orientation of the magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material due to alignment with the changing magnetic field.

[0079]

[0088] In each of the above processes, heat is generated inside the object itself, rather than by heat conduction from an external heat source. Therefore, by selecting a particularly appropriate object material and geometric shape, as well as an appropriate magnitude and direction of the changing magnetic field for the object, rapid temperature rise and more uniform heat dispersion of the object can be achieved. Thus, induction heating, for example, compared with heating by conduction, allows rapid heating of the heater element 40 (susceptor) because heat is generated inside the heater element 40. Furthermore, induction heating and magnetic hysteresis heating do not require a physical connection to be provided between the source of the changing magnetic field and the object, so the design freedom and control of the heating profile can be increased, and the cost can be reduced. Therefore, no physical contact is required between the induction heating system and the heater element 40, and the structural freedom, applications, and reliability of the aerosol generating device 10 are enhanced.

[0080]

[0089] An example of an aerosol generating device 10 is shown in FIG. 2, and a system for causing heating of the heater element 40 comprises an induction heating system 70 for heating the heater element 40. FIG. 2 shows only an example of a system for causing heating of the heater element 40. For the sake of clarity and convenience, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 is not shown in other figures. Similar to the device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 10 includes a mouthpiece 20 and an air inlet 30. In the case of the device 10 of FIG. 2, the air inlet 30 covers the user access portion to the heating chamber 50 and can also function as a lid 60 that allows a user to insert the aerosol-forming consumable 100 into the aerosol generating device 10. In a particular example, the air inlet / lid may not be present on the device 10 and air may be drawn through the open end of the device 10. In the exemplary device 10 shown in FIG. 2, the heating chamber 50 is defined by an elongated heater element 40 that is open at one end to allow the aerosol-forming consumable 100 to be inserted into the heating chamber 50. In FIG. 2, it can be seen that the induction heating system 70 comprises an induction coil wound around the heater element 40. The heater element 40 and the induction coil are shown as a cross-sectional view through the axis of the coil. The elongated heater element 40 may be, for example, in the shape of an elongated tube, such as one of the exemplary heater elements 40 described below. When the induction coil is energized with an alternating current, the resulting changing magnetic field heats the heater element 40, thereby heating the aerosol-forming consumable inserted into the heating chamber 50.

[0081]

[0090] In a specific example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may include a heater element 40 arranged as an electric resistance heater. Accordingly, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may include a circuit configuration for connecting the heater element 40 to a power source. During use, current from the power source can be passed through the heater element 40 to cause Joule heating of the heater element 40. The heater element 40 may be made of any suitable material forming a conductor, such as a metallic material. In one example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may include a controller capable of controlling the current passing through the heater element, and thus the amount of heat generated by the heater element 40.

[0082]

[0091] In a specific example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may include a radiative heating system. In one example, the radiative heating system may include a heating lamp that radiates thermal energy to the heater element 40. For example, the radiative heating system may include an infrared light source directed at the heater element 40. For example, the radiative heating system may include a radiative heat source such as an LED or a laser.

[0083]

[0092] In a specific example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may include a chemical heating system. For example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may include a chemical heat source that undergoes an exothermic reaction during use to generate heat.

[0084]

[0093] When the aerosol generating device 10 includes a plurality of heater elements 40, in a specific example, each heater element 40 may be provided with a respective system for causing heating of the heater element. In other examples, the system for causing heating of the heater element may heat a plurality of heater elements 40. For example, as described below, when a plurality of heater elements 40 are arranged linearly, a single system such as an induction heating coil surrounding all of the heater elements 40 may be provided.

[0085]

[0094] The heater element 40 may be configured to be movable relative to the housing of the aerosol generating device 10. The heater element 40 may be configured to be movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is received in the heating chamber during use of the heater element. The use of the heater element may be, for example, during a heating session of the aerosol generating device 10. The heating session of the aerosol generating device 10 may include periods during which the heating element 40 is not actually heated. The heating session of the aerosol generating device 10 may include periods during which the heating element 40 is heated. In a particular example, the heater element 40 may be configured to be movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is received in the heating chamber during heating of the heater element. For example, the heater element 40 may be configured to be movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is received in the heating chamber during heating. In this way, the amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the aerosol-forming consumable 100 can be controlled.

[0095] In a particular example, the heater element 40 may be maintained at a constant temperature when the heater element 40 is moved towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Thus, in a particular example, the system for causing heating of the heater element 40 may be configured to maintain the heater element 40 at approximately a constant temperature or at a constant temperature during use. In a particular example, the temperature of the heater element 40 may change when the heater element 40 is moved towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Thus, in a particular example, the system for causing heating of the heater element may be configured to change the temperature of the heater element 40 during use.

[0086]

[0096] Moving the heater element 40 towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable changes the rate of heat transfer to the aerosol-forming consumable. This is because the rate of heat transfer depends on the distance between the heater element 40 and the surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 that is exposed to the heater element 40. The greater the distance between the heater element 40 and the surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100, the lower the rate of heat energy transfer that occurs. For example, at a greater distance, a greater proportion of the heat radiated from the heater element 40 may be dissipated compared to a smaller distance, and at a smaller distance, more of the heat radiated from the heater element 40 hits the exposed surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Further, for example, a greater distance may increase the insulating gap, thereby reducing the rate of conductive heat transfer between the heater element 40 and the exposed surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0087]

[0097] Since the rate of heat transfer depends on the proximity of the heater element 40 to the aerosol-forming consumable 100, moving the heater element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 decreases the distance between the heater element 40 and the surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100, thereby increasing the rate of heat energy transfer between the heater element 40 and the aerosol-forming consumable 100. This may also increase the temperature of the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0088]

[0098] Conversely, moving the heater element 40 away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 increases the distance between the heater element 40 and the surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100, thereby decreasing the rate of heat energy transfer between the heater element 40 and the aerosol-forming consumable 100. This may also decrease the temperature of the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0089]

[0099] Thus, by moving the heater element 40 towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100, the distance between the heater element 40 and the surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is changed, and for example, the rate of heat transfer from the heater element 40 during heating can be controlled.

[0090]

[0100] In certain examples, the heater element 40 may be moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 to such an extent that the heater element 40 is in close engagement with the exposed surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In certain examples, the heater element 40 may apply a force to the surface of the aerosol-forming consumable 100. For example, the heater element 40 may be moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 to such an extent that the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is compressed.

[0091]

[0101] In addition to the amount of heat transferred from the heater element 40 to the aerosol-forming consumable 100 being controllable by moving the heater element 40 towards and away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100, moving the heater element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 can also improve the transfer of thermal energy between the heater element 40 and the aerosol-forming consumable 100 and increase the efficiency of aerosol generation from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. By improving the transfer of thermal energy between the heater element 40 and the aerosol-forming consumable 100, the energy efficiency of the device 10 can also be increased by reducing the energy that the device 10 consumes. In some cases, the compression of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may also affect the density of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 (at least in the vicinity of the heater element 40). This can further improve the heat transfer through the consumable.

[0092]

[0102] An aerosol-forming consumable, such as any one of the aerosol-forming consumables described above, may be heated according to the following method. The method includes receiving the aerosol-forming consumable within a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device. The heating chamber may be at least partially defined by a heater element that is movable relative to the housing of the aerosol-generating device. The method also includes moving the heater element towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable during use of the heater element to control the amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the consumable. In a particular example, the method may include moving the heater element towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable during heating of the heater element to control the amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the consumable. In a particular example, the method may include maintaining the temperature of the heater element at a constant temperature while the heater element is moving towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable. In a particular example, the method may include varying the temperature of the heater element while the heater element is moving towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable.

[0093]

[0103] During operation of the aerosol generation device 10, the heater element 40 is first moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 to rapidly heat the aerosol-forming consumable 100 and enable efficient generation of the aerosol. Then, when the temperature within the consumable reaches a predetermined initial temperature, the heater element 40 may be moved away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Then, to generate the aerosol while maintaining a predetermined operating temperature, the heater element 40 may be moved towards and away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 as needed. The predetermined operating temperature may be, for example, the same as or different from the predetermined initial temperature. In a specific example, the predetermined operating temperature may be varied as the user inhales the aerosol. For example, the predetermined operating temperature may be varied over the course of a single inhalation of the aerosol or over several inhalations. In a specific example, the predetermined operating temperature may be varied as the aerosol-forming consumable is consumed.

[0094]

[0104] In a specific example, the heater element 40 may be configured to move towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 in response to an input. For example, during operation of the aerosol generation device 10, the heater element may move in response to an input to a controller, such as a controller of a system for causing heating of the heater element 40 as described above. In a specific example, the heater element 40 may be configured to move towards or away from the aerosol generation consumable by an amount corresponding to the magnitude of the input. For example, the magnitude of the input may depend on the temperature change required for the aerosol-forming consumable 100 to return the aerosol-forming consumable to a desired temperature or temperature tolerance range.

[0095]

[0105] To monitor the temperature of the aerosol-forming consumable and / or the heat transferred to the aerosol-forming consumable 100, a temperature and / or heat transfer sensor may be provided in the aerosol-generating device. For example, a temperature sensor monitor may be installed within the heating chamber 50. The temperature sensor may provide, as an output of the sensor, a signal indicating the temperature of the aerosol-forming consumable 100, and this signal may be received as an input to a control circuit or the like. For example, the output of the temperature sensor may be received as an input to a controller of the system to cause heating of the heater element 40.

[0096]

[0106] In certain examples, the heating chamber 50 may be substantially tubular. As briefly discussed above, the heating chamber 50 may be at least partially defined by the heater element 40. For example, the heater element 40 may form one wall or a portion of a wall of the heating chamber 50, and the remaining wall or portion of the wall of the heating chamber is not formed by the heater element 40. In certain examples, the tubular heating chamber 50 may be defined by a tube wall, and the tube wall is partially formed by the heater element 40.

[0097]

[0107] In certain examples, the heating chamber 50 may be substantially defined by the heater element 40. In other words, in certain examples, the heating chamber 50 may be mostly defined by the heater element 40. In certain examples, the tubular heating chamber 50 may be defined by a tube wall, and the tube wall is substantially formed by the heater element 40. For example, the heater element 40 may surround the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 100. In such a case, some portions of the heating chamber 50 may be defined by other components of the aerosol-generating device 10 that may exist for functional or structural reasons.

[0098]

[0108] The tubular heating chamber 50 may be substantially hollow. In one such example, the tubular heating chamber 50 may be open at one end to allow insertion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In a particular example, the tubular heating chamber 50 is closed or partially closed at the other end to form a support for the aerosol-forming consumable 100 and can provide tactile feedback to indicate to the user that the aerosol-forming consumable 100 has been fully inserted into the heating chamber 50.

[0099]

[0109] The tubular heating chamber 50 may have a cross-section defined by a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the tubular heating chamber 50, i.e., along the length of the tubular heating chamber 50. In a particular example, the tubular heating chamber 50 may have a substantially circular cross-section. Thus, the tubular heating chamber 50 may be substantially cylindrical in the longitudinal direction, i.e., along the tubular length. In other examples of the tubular heating chamber 50, the cross-section may be, for example, square, rectangular, oval, or any suitable regular or irregular shape, forming a tubular heating chamber 50 of any suitable shape.

[0100]

[0110] In one example where the heating chamber 50 is substantially tubular, the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may have a shape corresponding to the internal shape of the heating chamber 50. For example, if the tubular heating chamber 50 is substantially cylindrical in its longitudinal direction, the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may have a substantially circular cross-section and be substantially cylindrical in the longitudinal direction, i.e., along the length of the consumable 100. In a particular example, the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be a rod, stick, or pod corresponding to the internal shape of the heating chamber 50.

[0101]

[0111] In an example where the heating chamber 50 is substantially tubular, the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 may be variable such that the heater element 40 can move towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable. For example, the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 may be reduced to move the heating element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Conversely, the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 may be enlarged to move the heating element 40 away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. The internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 may be defined as the hollow area of the cross-section passing through the heating chamber 50. The hollow area can also be further described as an empty area defined by the internal boundary of the cross-section. The cutting plane defining the cross-section may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the heating chamber 50, i.e., the direction along the length of the tubular heating chamber 50. In an example where the heater element 40 forms a part of the wall of the heating chamber 50, the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 may be reduced to move the wall including the heater element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In another example where the heater element 40 substantially defines the heating chamber 50, the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 may be reduced to move the heater element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 received in the heating chamber 50.

[0102]

[0112] In one example where the heating chamber 50 is substantially tubular, the inner peripheral surface of the heating chamber 50 may be variable such that the heater element 40 can move towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable. The inner peripheral surface of the heating chamber 50 may be defined by an internal boundary of a cross-section passing through the heating chamber 50. The cutting plane defining the cross-section may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, i.e., the direction along the length of the tubular heating chamber 50. For example, the inner peripheral surface of the heating chamber 50 may be reduced to move the heating element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Conversely, the inner peripheral surface of the heating chamber 50 may be enlarged to move the heating element 40 away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In one example where the tubular heating chamber 50 is substantially cylindrical, the inner peripheral surface of the tubular heating chamber 50 may be reduced or shortened to move the heating element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0103]

[0113] In one example where the tubular heating chamber 50 is substantially cylindrical, the heating element 40 may be moved radially towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0104]

[0114] Here, examples of a specific heater element 40 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 8.

[0105]

[0115] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary heater element 40 comprising an elongate hollow tube. The elongate hollow tube may be defined by a tube wall. The elongate hollow tube may have a longitudinal direction, i.e., a direction along the length of the elongate hollow tube. The elongate hollow tube may have a cross-section defined by a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongate hollow tube. The elongate hollow tube has a substantially circular cross-section in the example of FIG. 3. Thus, the elongate hollow tube may be substantially cylindrical in the longitudinal direction. In other examples of the heater element 40, the cross-section of the elongate hollow tube may be, for example, square, rectangular, oval, or any suitable shape, forming an elongate hollow tube of any suitable shape.

[0106]

[0116] The heating chamber 50 is defined by the internal volume of an elongate hollow tube. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the heating chamber 50 is substantially cylindrical in shape and can thus receive a substantially cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 of appropriate size. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be inserted into the heating chamber 50 in the direction of arrow X.

[0107]

[0117] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the heater element 40 defines most of the heating chamber 50 except for the open end that allows the consumable 100 to be inserted into the heating chamber 50. Thus, the heater element 40 substantially surrounds the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Further, the heating chamber 50 may be partially defined by the surface on the side opposite the opening, and this surface serves to position the consumable 100 when the consumable 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 50 and forms a stationary position for the consumable 100.

[0108]

[0118] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the elongate hollow tube comprises a split 42 in the tube wall that defines the elongate hollow tube. Due to the split 42, the heater element 40 is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 50. The heater element 40 may be moved in the direction of arrow M relative to the housing 12 in which the heater element 40 is held.

[0109]

[0119] The elongate hollow tube may have a tube wall end defined by a split 42 in the tube wall that defines the elongate hollow tube. In the example shown in FIG. 3 where the elongate hollow tube is cylindrical, the elongate hollow tube may have a circumferential direction and a radial direction. Thus, the tube wall end can also be represented as moving in the circumferential direction of the elongate hollow tube. In the example shown in FIG. 3, due to the split 42, the elongate hollow tube has a C-shaped cross-section.

[0110]

[0120] In a particular example, as shown in FIG. 3, one or both of the tube wall ends may be provided with a protrusion or flange 43. The flange 43 may protrude substantially radially from the tube wall end. The flange(s) 43 may provide an actuating mechanism that can engage a starting mechanism for driving the movement of the heater element 40. For example, a push rod driven by a cam and relying on the inherent elasticity of the heater element 40 drives the flange 43 back and forth in the direction of arrow M to move the heater element 40 towards and away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In another example, a linear actuator may drive the movement of the flange 43. For example, a lead screw may drive a lead nut attached to the flange 43.

[0111]

[0121] In a particular example, the starting mechanism may drive both flanges (if present) simultaneously. In other examples, the starting mechanism may drive one flange 43. In a particular example, the starting mechanism may drive one flange 43, and a second flange 43 at the end of the opposing split of the tube wall is attached to the housing of the aerosol-generating device 10.

[0112]

[0122] In other examples, the flange(s) 43 may not be provided, and other actuating systems may be provided. It should be understood that the movement of the heater element 40 shown in FIG. 3 may be initiated in various ways. For example, a set of jaws positioned above and below the heater element 40 in FIG. 3 may be actuated to compress the heater element 40 to move the heater element closer to the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0113]

[0123] As can be seen from FIG. 3, during heating, the heater element 40 is brought closer to the cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 inserted into the heating chamber 50. Therefore, when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is first inserted into the heating chamber 50, there may be a gap around the aerosol-forming consumable 100. This may enable easy insertion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 by the user of the aerosol-generating device 10.

[0114]

[0124] In FIG. 3, the split 42 can be represented as being located at a point on the circumference of the circular cross-section of the elongated hollow tube and extending linearly in the longitudinal direction along the tube. In other examples where the cross-section is not circular, the split can be represented as being located at a point around the perimeter of the cross-section of the elongated hollow tube.

[0115]

[0125] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the split 42 extends longitudinally along the elongated hollow tube. However, in other examples, the split may extend linearly and be angled with respect to the longitudinal direction. In another example, the split may be helical, which can enable movement of the heater element 40 towards and away from the aerosol-forming consumable by twisting (applying a certain torque) the tubular heater element 40. For example, the split may be a shallow helical shape that ends in less than one revolution along the length of the elongated hollow tube.

[0126] FIG. 4 shows another exemplary heater element 40 comprising an elongated hollow tube. Again, the elongated hollow tube may be defined by a tube wall. Similar to the example in FIG. 3, the elongated hollow tube has a longitudinal direction and may have a cross-section defined by a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated hollow tube. In FIG. 4, the elongated hollow tube has a substantially circular cross-section, is substantially cylindrical in the longitudinal direction, and has a circumferential direction and a radial direction. Again, the heating chamber 50 is substantially cylindrical in shape and can therefore receive a substantially cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 of appropriate size. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be inserted into the heating chamber 50 in the direction of arrow X.

[0116]

[0127] Similar to the example shown in FIG. 3, the elongated hollow tube of FIG. 4 has a split 42 in the tube wall of the heater element 40. Due to the split 42, the heater element 40 is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 50. The elongated hollow tube may have a tube wall end defined by the split 42. The elongated hollow tube of FIG. 4 also includes an overlapping portion 44 where the tube wall ends overlap such that they are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. In the example shown in FIG. 4, due to the split 42 and the overlapping portion of the tube wall ends, the elongated hollow tube may have a helical cross-section. The tube wall ends may be radially offset from each other to allow for relatively frictionless movement of the tube wall ends relative to each other. In some examples, an appropriate gap distance may be provided between the tube wall ends.

[0117]

[0128] Due to the split 42 shown in FIG. 4, the heater element 40 can be moved towards and away from the aerosol-forming consumable when the aerosol-forming consumable is received into the heating chamber 50. The heater element 40 may be moved in the direction of arrow M relative to the housing 12 in which the heater element 40 is held. The tube wall ends can be represented as moving in the circumferential direction of the elongated hollow tube. The overlapping tube wall ends may move past each other and increase the overlapping portion as the heater element 40 moves. The overlapping tube wall ends may move past each other and decrease the overlapping portion as the heater element 40 moves.

[0118]

[0129] In a particular example, as shown in FIG. 4, a protrusion or flange 43 may be provided on the outer tube wall end. The flange 43 may protrude substantially radially from the tube wall end. Similar to the flange mechanism described in the above example with respect to FIG. 3, the flange 43 may provide an actuating mechanism that can engage a starting mechanism for driving the movement of the heater element 40. Any of the actuating configurations described above with respect to FIG. 3, such as a push rod or a linear actuator, may be used with the heater element 40 shown in FIG. 4.

[0119]

[0130] In certain examples, the flange 43 may not be provided and other actuation systems may be provided. In one example, the aerosol generating device 10 may comprise a worm drive for circumferentially driving the overlapping wall tube ends of the elongated hollow tube. For example, the worm drive may comprise a worm screw meshing with a worm gear circumferentially arranged around at least a part of the outside of the elongated hollow tube. The worm gear may consist of, for example, gear teeth cut into the elongated hollow tube or a gear arranged on the elongated hollow tube. The worm screw may be attached at any suitable position of the aerosol generating device 10, for example to the heater element 40. When the worm screw is rotated, the worm screw drives the worm gear, whereby the overlapping wall tube ends move past each other. The wall tube ends can be driven by the worm gear to increase or decrease the overlapping portion. In this way, the heater element 40 can move towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. For example, when the worm screw is rotated to increase the overlapping portion, the inner circumferential surface of the elongated hollow tube is reduced, thereby moving the heater element 40 towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Conversely, when the worm screw is rotated to decrease the overlapping portion, the inner circumferential surface of the elongated hollow tube is enlarged, thereby moving the heater element 40 away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. As shown in FIG. 4, when the heater element 40 has a substantially circular cross-section, when the worm screw is rotated, as the heater element 40 moves towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100, the diameter of the elongated hollow tube changes.

[0120]

[0131] As discussed above, in certain examples, the heater element 40 may comprise a plurality of heater element portions. FIGS. 5A and 5B show an exemplary heater element 40 in which the heater element 40 comprises two heater element portions. In the example shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the heater element 40 comprises an elongated hollow tube. The elongated hollow tube may be defined by a tube wall. The elongated hollow tube may comprise two tube wall portions 40a, 40b. The tube wall portions 40a, 40b may correspond to the two heater element portions. In the example shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the elongated hollow tube has a longitudinal direction and may have a cross-section defined by a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated hollow tube. In FIGS. 5A and 5B, the elongated hollow tube has a substantially circular cross-section and is substantially cylindrical in the longitudinal direction. The cylindrical elongated hollow tube may have a circumferential direction and a radial direction. The heating chamber 50 is substantially cylindrical in shape and may receive a substantially cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 of appropriate size. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be inserted into the heating chamber 50 in the direction of arrow X.

[0121]

[0132] The two tube wall portions 40a, 40b are separated by two longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b in the tube wall that define the elongated hollow tube. In this example, the longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b are configured such that the elongated hollow tube is split to form two symmetrical halves. In other examples, the longitudinal gaps may split the elongated hollow tube into unequal parts rather than halves. The longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b allow the tube wall portions 40a, 40b to form jaws, at least one of which is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 50. As shown in FIG. 5B, one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b may be moved in the direction of arrow M relative to each other. Thus, one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b move relative to the housing in which the heater element 40 is held.

[0122]

[0133] By means of the longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b, one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b are moved towards each other, reducing the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 such that the heater element 40 moves towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 as shown in FIG. 5B. Subsequently, one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b can be moved away from each other to increase the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 such that the heater element 40 moves away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In the example shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the movement of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b can be represented as being towards or away from a plane passing through the central axis of the cylindrical elongated hollow tube. The movement shown in FIG. 5B shows the cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 both before and after the tube wall portions 40a, 40b are moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. FIG. 5B shows the aerosol-forming consumable 100 inserted into the heating chamber 50 from an end.

[0123]

[0134] The tube wall portions 40a, 40b may have tube wall portion ends defined by longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b in the tube wall. In a particular example, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, a protrusion or flange 43 may be provided at the tube wall portion ends. For example, a flange may be provided at each tube wall portion end of each of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, or a flange 43 may be provided at only one tube wall portion end. Each flange 43 may protrude substantially radially from its respective tube wall portion end. The flange 43 may provide an actuating mechanism that can engage a starting mechanism for driving the movement of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b. For example, a linear actuator may be attached to one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b to drive one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b together or individually. For example, the linear actuator may be attached to the housing and move one tube wall portion 40a towards and away from the other tube wall portion 40b fixed to the housing. In another example, the linear actuator may be fixed to one tube wall portion 40a and drive the other tube wall portion 40b towards and away from the other tube wall portion 40b. Other actuating mechanisms for driving the movement of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b are also conceivable.

[0124]

[0135] Here, another example is described where the heater element 40 comprises an elongate hollow tube defined by a tube wall having two tube wall portions 40a, 40b, and the tube wall portions 40a, 40b can correspond to two heater element portions. In this example, the two tube wall portions 40a, 40b are separated by a single longitudinal gap in the tube wall that defines the elongate hollow tube. The longitudinal gap may be configured such that the elongate hollow tube is divided to form two symmetrical halves. The longitudinal gap allows the tube wall portions 40a, 40b to form two jaws, at least one of which is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 50. By the longitudinal gap, one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b are moved towards each other, reducing the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 and causing the heater element 40 to move towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Subsequently, one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b can be moved away from each other to increase the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 and cause the heater element 40 to move away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0125]

[0136] In a particular example where a single longitudinal gap is provided in the tube wall, the two tube wall portions may move relative to the housing by flexing the tube wall of the elongate tube. In a particular example, the tube wall portions 40a, 40b may be fixed to each other such that one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b can rotate relative to the housing. In a particular example, a recess or groove may be provided in the tube wall to form a living hinge allowing one or both of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b to rotate relative to the housing.

[0126]

[0137] Figures 6A and 6B show another exemplary heater element 40 in which the heater element 40 comprises a plurality of heater element portions. In the example of Figures 6A and 6B, the heater element comprises an elongated hollow tube. The elongated hollow tube may be defined by a tube wall. The elongated hollow tube may comprise three tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c. In other examples, any suitable number of tube wall portions may be provided, for example two, or four, or five or more tube wall portions may be provided. In the example shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the elongated hollow tube has a longitudinal direction and may have a cross-section defined by a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated hollow tube. In Figures 6A and 6B, the elongated hollow tube has a substantially circular cross-section and is substantially cylindrical in the longitudinal direction. The cylindrical elongated hollow tube may have a circumferential direction and a radial direction. The heating chamber 50 is substantially cylindrical in shape and may receive a substantially cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 of a suitable size. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be inserted into the heating chamber 50 in the direction of arrow X, as shown in Figure 6B.

[0127]

[0138] The three tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c are separated by three longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b, 46c of the tube wall that define an elongated hollow tube. In other examples where a different number of tube wall portions are provided, a corresponding number of longitudinal gaps may separate the heater element portions. In the example shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b, 46c are equally spaced apart and the elongated hollow tube is divided to form three equally sized tube wall portions. In other examples, the longitudinal gaps may be arranged to form tube wall portions of unequal size. The longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b, 46c allow the heater element portions 40a, 40b, 46c to form three legs, at least one of which is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the aerosol-forming consumable 100 is inserted into the heating chamber 50. As shown in FIG. 6A, one, two, or all three of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c may be moved relative to each other in the direction of arrow M. Thus, one, two, or all three of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c also move relative to the housing in which the heater element 40 is held.

[0128]

[0139] The longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b, 46c cause one, two, or all three of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c to move towards each other, thereby reducing the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 and causing the heater element 40 to move towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. The movement of one, two, or all three of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c also changes the inner diameter of the elongated hollow tube forming the heater element 40. Subsequently, the movable tube wall portion(s) 40a, 40b, 40c can be moved away from each other to expand the internal cross-sectional area of the heating chamber 50 and cause the heater element 40 to move away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. In the examples shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the movement of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c can be represented as a radial movement with respect to the cylindrical elongated hollow tube. FIG. 6A shows the cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 after the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c have been moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. FIG. 6A shows the aerosol-forming consumable 100 inserted into the heating chamber 50 from one end.

[0129]

[0140] FIG. 6B shows how the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c can be integrally formed with each other. It should be understood that in other examples of the heater element 40, including the examples described herein, the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c may be integrally formed with each other or may be separate components of the aerosol-generating device 10 not integrally formed with each other. The examples described above with respect to FIGS. 5A and 5B may or may not be integrally formed with each other. Further, regardless of whether the heater element portions described herein are integrally formed or not, each heater element portion for any of the examples described herein may move independently of other heater element portions or, in other examples, may move in cooperation to move the heater element towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0130]

[0141] In the exemplary heater element 40 shown in FIG. 6B, the elongated hollow tube includes a root portion 48 that joins the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c to each other. The root portion may be disposed, for example, at one end of the elongated hollow tube that forms the heater element 40. Thus, the elongated hollow tube may be a single piece, and the longitudinal gaps 46a, 46b, 46c are slits that are formed only partially along the length of the elongated hollow tube. In this way, the inherent elasticity of the single-piece elongated hollow tube can be used to drive the movement of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c. For example, the outer surface of the elongated hollow tube may be conical, and a complementary tapered block may be slid longitudinally in one direction to drive the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c toward the aerosol-forming consumable 100. The complementary tapered block may be slid longitudinally in the other direction to release the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 by the inherent elasticity of the single piece. In one example, the elongated hollow tube may be formed from spring steel or a material that provides similar suitable elasticity. Those skilled in the art will understand that there are other possible actuation mechanisms for driving the movement of the tube wall portions 40a, 40b, 40c.

[0131]

[0142] FIG. 7 shows another example of the heater element 40, where the heater element 40 includes a coiled member. The coil formed by the coiled member is generally cylindrical and may have a longitudinal direction along the length of the cylinder and a radial direction. The coiled member has a radially inner surface that defines a heating chamber 50 that can receive the aerosol-forming consumable 100. The heating chamber 50 may be substantially cylindrical and thus may receive a substantially cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 of appropriate size. The coiled member may be twistable so that the diameter of the radially inner surface can be changed. By twisting the coiled member in one direction, the diameter of the radially inner surface can be decreased. By twisting the coiled member in the other direction, the diameter of the radially inner surface can be decreased.

[0132]

[0143] The coiled member may be a torsion coil spring. A starting member 49a may be provided on the torsion coil spring. A fixing member 49b may be provided at the other end of the spring on the torsion coil spring. The fixing member 49b may be fixed to the housing of the aerosol generating device 10. For example, a certain torque may be applied to the torsion coil spring via the starting member 49, and the torsion coil spring is twisted around its central axis. By twisting the torsion coil spring in one direction, the heater element 40 can be moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. By twisting the torsion coil spring in the other direction, the heater element 40 can be moved away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0133]

[0144] The arrow T in FIG. 7 indicates the direction of twist of the torsion coil spring. The fixing member 49b may remain fixed at a predetermined position. When the torsion coil spring is twisted in one direction, as the coil is stretched or strained, the inner diameter of the spring decreases. In this way, the heater element 40 is moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. When the torsion coil spring is twisted in the other direction, the inner diameter of the spring increases when the coil is loosened. In this way, the heater element 40 is moved away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0134]

[0145] Figures 8A and 8B show a heater element 40 of another example, where the heater element 40 comprises an elongated hollow tube. The elongated hollow tube may comprise a flexible wall. The elongated hollow tube has a longitudinal direction and may have a cross-section defined by a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated hollow tube. In Figures 8A and 8B, the elongated hollow tube has a substantially circular cross-section and is substantially cylindrical in the longitudinal direction and has a circumferential direction and a radial direction. The flexible wall has a radially inner surface that defines a heating chamber 50 capable of receiving the aerosol-forming consumable 100. The heating chamber 50 may be substantially cylindrical in shape and may receive a substantially cylindrical aerosol-forming consumable 100 of appropriate size. The aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be inserted into the heating chamber 50 in the direction of arrow X as shown in Figure 8A. The flexible wall of the elongated hollow tube may be formed from braided blades. The braided blades may be metal blades. The braided blades can flex laterally when compressed or extended in the longitudinal direction.

[0135]

[0146] The flexible wall of the elongated hollow tube shown in Figures 8A and 8B may be compressed and extended in the longitudinal direction, and the heater element 40 may be moved towards and away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Figures 8A and 8B show the flexible wall of the elongated hollow tube being compressible and extensible in the longitudinal direction such that the flexible wall is movable in the radial direction of the elongated hollow tube during use. The flexible wall of the elongated hollow tube may be compressed and extended in the direction of arrow M such that the flexible wall moves outwardly and inwardly, respectively, in the radial direction of the elongated hollow tube.

[0136]

[0147] In Figure 8A, the flexible wall of the elongated hollow tube is compressed in the longitudinal direction and moved away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 in the radial direction. When the flexible wall is moved away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100 in the radial direction, the inner diameter of the flexible elongated hollow tube decreases, and thus the internal cross-sectional area of the heater element 40 is reduced. In this configuration, a large gap is provided between the heater element 40 and the aerosol-forming consumable 100, so that the aerosol-forming consumable 100 can be easily inserted into the heating chamber 50. In Figure 8B, the flexible wall of the elongated hollow tube is extended in the longitudinal direction and moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 in the radial direction. When the flexible wall is moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100 in the radial direction, the inner diameter of the flexible elongated hollow tube increases, and thus the internal cross-sectional area of the heater element 40 is enlarged. As described above, by compressing and extending the flexible wall in the longitudinal direction of the elongated hollow tube, the heat transferred to the aerosol-forming consumable 100 can be controlled.

[0148] A starting member 49a may be provided on the flexible elongated hollow tube. A fixing member 49b may be provided at the other end of the flexible elongated hollow tube. The fixing member 49b may be fixed to the housing of the aerosol generating device 10. In the example shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the fixing member 49b may be arranged at the end of the same heater element 40 that has an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming consumable 100 into the heating chamber 50. In other examples, the starting member 49a may be arranged at the end of the heater element 40 that has an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming consumable 100 into the heating chamber 50.

[0137]

[0149] The starting member 49a may be driven back and forth in the longitudinal direction so as to be able to compress and extend the flexible elongated hollow tube in the longitudinal direction. By driving the operating member 49a in one direction, the heater element 40 can be moved towards the aerosol-forming consumable 100. By driving the operating member 49a in the other direction, the heater element 40 can be moved away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0138]

[0150] As discussed above, in certain examples, the heater element 40 may be one of a plurality of heater elements 40. FIG. 9 shows an exemplary aerosol-generating device 10 in which two heater elements 40 are provided. In other examples, any suitable number of heater elements 40 may be provided.

[0139]

[0151] In the example of FIG. 9, the heater elements 40 are arranged in series within the aerosol-generating device 10, and an elongate aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be received in a heating chamber 50 defined at least in part by each respective heater element 40. It should be understood that a plurality of heater elements, such as those described herein, may be arranged in other ways within the aerosol-generating device. For example, the plurality of heater elements may be arranged as a radial array and configured to receive a corresponding plurality of aerosol-forming consumables.

[0140]

[0152] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the heater elements 40 may be moved independently of each other towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable 100. FIG. 9 schematically shows that one of the heater elements 40 is closer to the aerosol-forming consumable 100 than the other heater element 40. In this way, different portions of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 can be temperature-controlled independently. For example, a portion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be heated earlier than another portion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100, and the first portion may be consumed by the user earlier than the second portion. In another example, the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be maintained at a predetermined temperature profile with respect to its length as it is heated and consumed by the user of the device 10. For example, a portion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100 may be maintained at a higher temperature than another portion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100. Thereby, for example, a flavor aerosol may be released from a portion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100, and at the same time, a nicotine-bearing aerosol may be released from another portion of the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0141]

[0153] As discussed above, examples of the heater element 40 described herein may be provided with a starting mechanism, and some of those examples are described herein. The operating mechanism may be started by a starting mechanism, and some of those examples are also described herein. To control the starting mechanism, the aerosol generating device 10 may comprise a starting system such as an electrical circuit to operate the starting mechanism to move the heater element 40 towards and away from the aerosol forming consumable 100.

[0142]

[0154] As described above, the starting system itself may be operated based on an input. The input may be a command from a controller which may be based on a display of the temperature of the aerosol forming consumable (e.g. sensed by a temperature sensor), or a command from a user start switch (such as a power button or a puff sensor for detecting when the user inhales on the device), or a manual command by the user (such as by selection of a temperature at which the consumable should be heated or provision of a display of the temperature). For example, the input may be received from the user and may be at least one of an expression of a desired temperature set by the user and a display of the user's inhalation on the aerosol generating device. For example, the user may be able to set the temperature. In another example, the user may be able to set a desired amount of aerosol per puff. In some such situations, the desired amount of aerosol per puff may be approximately proportional or proportional to the temperature at which the aerosol forming consumable is heated. In some implementations, the starting system may be operated as soon as the user inserts the aerosol forming consumable 100 into the heating chamber 50. For example, the operating system may be triggered by the user closing a lid 60 covering the heating chamber 50. The lid 60 may, for example, exert a biasing force on or press an electrical switch within the heating chamber 60 when closed. In one example, the operating system may be triggered by the user inhaling on the aerosol generating device 10 which detects the mouthpiece 20 and the user's inhalation action. In one example, the operating system may be operated by the user turning on a function switch of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0143]

[0155] The heating chamber 50 may be conditioned to a state in which the starting system is released to move the heater element 40 and the aerosol-forming consumable 100 can be released from the heating chamber 50.

[0144]

[0156] In certain examples, the starting system may be synchronized with the user's inhalation cycle. For example, after it is determined that each inhalation of the user has ended, the starting mechanism may be released to return the heating element 40 to a position for initially heating the aerosol-forming consumable, for example when the aerosol-forming consumable is cold. This can reduce the heat delivered to the aerosol-forming consumable 100 when the user is not inhaling with the device 10 and thus can extend the life of the aerosol-forming consumable 100.

[0145]

[0157] The aerosol-generating device may be provided to the user as an aerosol-generating system including at least one aerosol-forming consumable for use with the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating system may include a plurality of similar aerosol-forming consumables for use with the aerosol-generating device. Since the aerosol-generating device heater element at least partially defines a heating chamber for receiving at least one aerosol-forming consumable, the at least one aerosol-forming consumable is sized and shaped to be accommodatable within the aerosol-generating device heater element.

[0146]

[0158] The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of the embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations to the scope of the invention defined by the claims or to the equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. The various embodiments of the present invention may preferably include, consist of, or consist essentially of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein, or may be made up of such combinations, or may be essentially composed of such combinations. Furthermore, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming consumable, comprising: a housing; at least one heater element movable relative to the housing; a system for causing heating of the heater element; wherein the heater element at least partially defines a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol-forming consumable; the heater element is configured to control the amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the consumable by being movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable when the aerosol-forming consumable is received in the heating chamber during use of the heater element; (i) the heater element comprises an elongate hollow tube defined by a tube wall, the elongate hollow tube having a slit in the tube wall, or (ii) the heater element comprises an elongate hollow tube defined by a tube wall, the elongate hollow tube having a plurality of tube wall portions, the tube wall portions being separated by one or more longitudinal gaps in the tube wall of the elongate hollow tube, the tube wall portions forming a plurality of joints, at least one of the plurality of joints being movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable during use, and the tube wall portions being integrally formed with each other, or (iii) the heater element comprises an elongate hollow tube having a flexible wall, the flexible wall being compressible and extensible in the longitudinal direction and movable in the radial direction of the elongate hollow tube during use, or (iv) the heater element comprises a torsionable coiled member having a radially inner surface defining the heating chamber. An aerosol generating device.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the system for causing heating of the heater element is configured to maintain the heater element at or near a constant temperature during use.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heater element is configured to move towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable in response to an input.

4. The aerosol-forming consumable further comprises a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the aerosol-forming consumable, and the input is the sensed temperature of the aerosol-forming consumable, or the input is at least one of an expression of a desired temperature received from a user and set by the user, and an indication of user inhalation in the aerosol-generating device The aerosol-generating device according to claim 3

5. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 3, wherein the heater element is configured to move towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable by an amount corresponding to the magnitude of the input

6. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heating chamber is configured to have a variable internal cross-sectional area and / or a variable inner peripheral surface such that the heater element is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable

7. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heater element comprises an elongate hollow tube defined by a tube wall, and the elongate hollow tube comprises a slit in the tube wall

8. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 7, wherein the elongate hollow tube has a tube wall end defined by the slit, and the tube wall end is movable in the circumferential direction of the elongate hollow tube when the heater element moves towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable

9. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 8, wherein the tube wall ends overlap in the circumferential direction

10. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the tube wall ends of the elongate hollow tube comprises a flange projecting substantially radially from the tube wall end

11. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 9, comprising a worm drive configured to drive the overlapping tube wall ends in the circumferential direction to move the heater element towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable during use

12. The heater element comprises an elongate hollow tube defined by a tube wall, the elongate hollow tube comprises a plurality of tube wall portions, the tube wall portions are separated by one or more longitudinal gaps in the tube wall of the elongate hollow tube, the tube wall portions form a plurality of joints, at least one of the plurality of joints is movable towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable in use, and the tube wall portions are integrally formed with each other. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1.

13. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heater element comprises an elongate hollow tube with a flexible wall, the flexible wall is compressible and extensible in the longitudinal direction, and the flexible wall is movable in the radial direction of the elongate hollow tube in use.

14. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heater element comprises a twistable coiled member having a radially inner surface defining the heating chamber.

15. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one heater element comprises a plurality of heater elements, and each of the heater elements can be moved towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable independently of each other in use.

16. An aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 and at least one aerosol-forming consumable, wherein the at least one aerosol-forming consumable is of a shape and size such that it can be received in the heating chamber.

17. A method of heating an aerosol-forming consumable, comprising the step of providing an aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, the step of receiving an aerosol-forming consumable in the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device, and the step of controlling the amount of heat transferred from the heater element to the consumable by moving the heater element towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable during use of the heater element. A method comprising the steps.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the temperature of the heater element is maintained at a constant temperature when the heater element is moving towards or away from the aerosol-forming consumable.

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