Aerosol generation system with hybrid susceptor

Abstract

A cartridge (10) for an aerosol generation system includes a liquid reservoir (40) for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate (42), a susceptor assembly (12) in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir (40), and a susceptor holder (14). The susceptor assembly (12) includes susceptor elements (16, 18) having a heating region (24) and at least one mounting region (22). The heating region (24) includes a first material, which is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field. The at least one mounting region (22) includes a second material, which is a non-magnetic material. The at least one mounting region (22) of the susceptor element is in contact with the susceptor holder (14). The weight percentage of the first material in the heating region (24) is greater than the weight percentage of the first material in the at least one mounting region (22).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system and a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. In particular, this disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system having an inductive heating assembly and a cartridge for an aerosol generation system having an inductive heating assembly, wherein the cartridge includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor assembly for heating the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0002] Aerosol generating systems that use inductive heating to heat an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol for user inhalation are generally known in the prior art. These systems typically comprise an aerosol generating device including an inductive heating assembly and a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, can release volatile compounds to form an inhalable aerosol. The cartridge is configured to be connected to the aerosol generating device. The inductive heating assembly comprises at least one inductor coil configured to generate an alternating magnetic field within a cavity. A susceptor forming either the cartridge or the device is placed in the alternating magnetic field in close proximity to the aerosol-forming substrate. When the susceptor is penetrated by the alternating magnetic field, the susceptor is heated by at least one of Joule heating from an overcurrent induced within the susceptor and hysteresis losses. The heated susceptor heats the aerosol-forming substrate, releasing volatile compounds from the aerosol-forming substrate, which are then cooled to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0003] One advantage of induction heating systems is that the electrical components of the system can be isolated from the aerosol-forming substrate and the generated aerosol. Another advantage is that the cartridge structure can be simplified because it does not need to provide electrical connections to the device.

[0004] Several susceptor configurations have been described in the prior art. In many of these configurations, a portion of the susceptor is in contact with other parts of the cartridge, such as the cartridge housing. This contact between the susceptor and other parts of the cartridge requires that the other parts of the cartridge in contact with the susceptor be configured to withstand the temperatures reached when the susceptor is heated. Furthermore, contact between the susceptor and other parts of the cartridge can conduct heat escaping from the susceptor, reducing the efficiency of the system that heats the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0005] It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generation system having a susceptor assembly that minimizes heat loss from the susceptor to other parts of the cartridge without reducing heat transfer to the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0006] This disclosure provides a cartridge for an aerosol generation system. The cartridge may comprise a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may further comprise a susceptor assembly in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. The susceptor assembly may comprise a susceptor element. The susceptor element may have a heating region comprising a first material. The first material may be a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor element may further comprise at least one mounting region comprising a second material. The second material may be a non-magnetic material. The cartridge may further comprise a susceptor holder. At least one mounting region of each susceptor element may be in contact with the susceptor holder. The weight proportion of the first material in the heating region may be greater than the weight proportion of the first material in at least one mounting region.

[0007] Advantageously, by providing a susceptor element having regions formed from different materials, it may be possible to enable different regions of the susceptor element to have different properties. This may allow the susceptor element to maximize heat loss in some regions and minimize heat loss in other regions.

[0008] Advantageously, providing a region containing non-magnetic material to the susceptor element can reduce heating of the susceptor element in the region containing non-magnetic material compared to other regions of the susceptor element containing magnetic material.

[0009] Advantageously, providing a susceptor element having a region containing a lower weight percentage of magnetic material than other regions of the susceptor element can reduce heating of the susceptor element in the region containing the lower weight percentage of magnetic material compared to other regions of the susceptor element containing a higher weight percentage of magnetic material.

[0010] Advantageously, providing a susceptor element having at least one mounting area containing a non-magnetic material and a magnetic material in a lower weight percentage compared to the heated area of ​​the susceptor element allows, when at least one mounting area is in contact with the susceptor holder, the mounting area in contact with the susceptor holder to exhibit reduced heating from the penetration of the alternating magnetic field compared to the heated area, thereby minimizing heat loss from the susceptor element to the susceptor holder.

[0011] The cartridge comprises a susceptor assembly. The susceptor assembly comprises a susceptor element. The susceptor assembly may further comprise a wicking element. The wicking element may be in fluid communication with the susceptor element. The wicking element may be in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir. The wicking element may be positioned to deliver an aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir to the susceptor element. In particular, the wicking element may be positioned to deliver an aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir across the main surface of the susceptor element. The susceptor element may be fixed to the wicking element. The susceptor element may be integrated with the wicking element. The provision of the wicking element improves the wetting of the susceptor element, thereby increasing aerosol generation by the system. The wicking element makes it possible to fabricate the susceptor element from a material that does not itself provide good wicking or wetting performance.

[0012] In some embodiments, the susceptor assembly comprises multiple susceptor elements. When the susceptor assembly comprises multiple susceptor elements and wicking elements, each susceptor element may be arranged in fluid communication with the wicking elements. In some embodiments, the susceptor assembly comprises multiple susceptor elements and multiple wicking elements.

[0013] In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor assembly comprises a first susceptor element and a second susceptor element, the second susceptor element being spaced apart from the first susceptor element. The wicking element may be positioned in the space between the first and second susceptor elements. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the first susceptor, the second susceptor, and the wicking element are substantially planar, with the first susceptor positioned on a first side of the planar wicking element and the second susceptor positioned on a second side of the planar wicking element opposite to the first side.

[0014] In other words, the susceptor assembly is positioned substantially outside the liquid reservoir. In particular, each susceptor element of the susceptor assembly may be positioned substantially outside the liquid reservoir. Preferably, at least a portion of the susceptor element or each of its main surfaces is not in direct contact with the liquid reservoir. Preferably, at least a portion of the two opposing main surfaces of the susceptor assembly is in direct contact with the air in the cartridge's air passage.

[0015] The susceptor element of the susceptor assembly comprises a heating region and at least one mounting region. The at least one mounting region is in contact with the susceptor assembly holder. As used herein, the term “contact” means both direct and indirect contact.

[0016] Preferably, at least one mounting area is in direct contact with the susceptor holder. As used herein, the term “direct contact” means contact between two components where the surfaces of the two components are touching each other without the presence of an intermediate material.

[0017] At least one mounting area may be in contact with the susceptor holder. As used herein, the term “indirect contact” means contact between two components where the surfaces of the two components are not in contact with each other, via one or more intermediate materials placed between the two components. For example, at least one mounting area is indirectly in contact with the susceptor element if a layer of adhesive is provided between the surface of at least one mounting area and the surface of the susceptor holder.

[0018] In some preferred embodiments, at least one mounting region may extend into the liquid reservoir. In some preferred embodiments, the heating region of the susceptor element may be located outside the liquid reservoir. Advantageously, by substantially positioning the susceptor element outside the liquid reservoir, and in particular by positioning the heating region of the susceptor element outside the liquid reservoir, it can be ensured that the aerosol-forming substrate is heated sufficiently to release volatile compounds only after it has been delivered outside the liquid reservoir. This can facilitate the release of volatile compounds from the aerosol-generating system.

[0019] As used herein, “susceptor element” means an element that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field. A susceptor element is typically heated by Joule heating through eddy current induction in the susceptor element and at least one of hysteresis losses.

[0020] The susceptor element includes a heating region. The heating region is a region of the susceptor element configured to heat to the temperature necessary to vaporize the aerosol-forming substrate when penetrated by a suitable alternating magnetic field. The heating region is configured to heat to a substantially higher temperature than the mounting region in the presence of an alternating magnetic field.

[0021] The heating region includes a first material. The first material is any suitable magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field. The term “magnetic material,” as used herein, is used to describe any material that can interact with a magnetic field, including both paramagnetic and ferromagnetic materials. The first material can be any suitable magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field. In some preferred embodiments, the first material includes ferritic stainless steel. Suitable ferritic stainless steels include AISI 400 series stainless steels such as AISI type 409, 410, 420, and 430 stainless steels.

[0022] In some preferred embodiments, the heating region consists of a first material. However, in other embodiments, the heating region comprises a first material and one or more other materials. When the heating region comprises a first material and one or more other materials, the heating region may comprise any preferred proportion of the first material. For example, the heating region may comprise at least 10% by weight of the first material, or at least 20% by weight of the first material, or at least 30% by weight of the first material, or at least 40% by weight of the first material, or at least 50% by weight of the first material, or at least 60% by weight of the first material, or at least 70% by weight of the first material, or at least 80% by weight of the first material, or at least 90% by weight of the first material.

[0023] The susceptor element further comprises at least one mounting area. Each of the at least one mounting areas of the susceptor element is an area configured to contact the susceptor holder.

[0024] At least one mounting region comprises a second material. The second material is a non-magnetic material. The term "non-magnetic material" is used herein to describe a material that does not interact with a magnetic field and cannot be heated by penetration with an alternating magnetic field. The second material can be any suitable non-magnetic material. In some embodiments, the second material is a non-magnetic metal. For example, the second material can be a non-magnetic austenitic stainless steel. Suitable austenitic stainless steels include AISI 300 series stainless steels such as AISI type 304, 309, and 316 stainless steels.

[0025] The susceptor holder can contact the second material in at least one mounting region of the susceptor element. The susceptor holder can contact the susceptor element only in the second material. Advantageously, providing contact between the susceptor holder and the susceptor element in the second material can help minimize heat transfer from the susceptor element to the susceptor holder.

[0026] In some embodiments, the second material is non-metallic. For example, the second material can be a ceramic material.

[0027] In some embodiments, the second material is a conductive material. As used herein, a "conductive" material has a volume resistivity of less than about 1×10 -5 ohm-meter (Ωm) at 20 degrees Celsius (°C), typically from about 1×10 -5 ohm-meter (Ωm) to about 1×10 -9 ohm-meter (Ωm). Suitable conductive materials include metals, alloys, conductive ceramics, and conductive polymers. Suitable conductive materials can include gold and platinum.

[0028] In some embodiments, the second material is an electrically insulating material. Advantageously, the electrically insulating second material can help minimize heat transfer from the susceptor element to the susceptor holder. As used herein, an "electrically insulating" material has a volume resistivity of about 1×10 6Ohmmeter (Ωm), typically about 1 × 10⁻⁶ 9 Ohms (Ωm) ~ approximately 1 × 10⁻⁶ 21 This refers to a material having a volume resistivity of ohms (Ωm). Suitable electrical insulating materials include glass, plastics, and certain ceramic materials.

[0029] In some embodiments, the second material is an insulating material. Advantageously, an insulating second material can help minimize heat transfer from the susceptor element to the susceptor holder. As used herein, the term “insulating” refers to a material having a bulk thermal conductivity of less than 5 watts / meter·kelvin (mW / (mK)) at 23°C and a relative humidity of 50% as measured using the improved transient planar heat source (MTPS) method.

[0030] In some embodiments, the second material is a thermally conductive material. As used herein, the term “thermally conductive” refers to a material having a bulk thermal conductivity of at least about 10 watts / meter-kelvin (mW / (mK)) at 23°C and a relative humidity of 50% as measured using an improved transient planar heat source (MTPS) method.

[0031] In some embodiments, the second material may be a hydrophilic material. In some embodiments, the second material may be a lipophilic material. Advantageously, providing a hydrophilic or lipophilic second material may facilitate the transport of the aerosol-forming substrate through the susceptor element.

[0032] In some embodiments, the second material includes a cellulose material. For example, the second material may include rayon.

[0033] In some preferred embodiments, at least one mounting area is made of the second material. However, in other embodiments, at least one mounting area includes the second material and one or more other materials. If at least one mounting area includes the second material and one or more other materials, the at least one mounting area may include any preferred proportion of the second material. For example, at least one mounting area of ​​a susceptor element may include at least 10% by weight of the second material, or at least 20% by weight of the second material, or at least 30% by weight of the second material, or at least 40% by weight of the second material, or at least 50% by weight of the second material, or at least 60% by weight of the second material, or at least 70% by weight of the second material, or at least 80% by weight of the second material, or at least 90% by weight of the second material.

[0034] At least one mounting area may contain the first material. However, at least one mounting area contains the first material in a lower proportion than the heating area. The weight proportion of the first material in the heating area is greater than the weight proportion of the first material in at least one mounting area. For example, the heating region of the susceptor element may contain at least 90% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element may contain less than 10% by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the susceptor element may contain at least 80% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element may contain less than 20% by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the susceptor element may contain at least 70% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element may contain less than 30% by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the susceptor element may contain at least 60% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element may contain less than 40% by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the susceptor element may contain at least 50% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element may contain less than 50% by weight of the first material.

[0035] At least one mounting area may contain 90% by weight or less of the first material, or 80% by weight or less of the first material, or 70% by weight or less of the first material, or 60% by weight or less of the first material, or 50% by weight or less of the first material, or 40% by weight or less of the first material, or 30% by weight or less of the first material, or 20% by weight or less of the first material, or 10% by weight or less of the first material.

[0036] At least one mounting area may include at least 10% by weight of a second material and less than 90% by weight of a first material, or at least 20% by weight of a second material and less than 80% by weight of a first material, or at least 30% by weight of a second material and less than 70% by weight of a first material, or at least 40% by weight of a second material and less than 60% by weight of a first material, or at least 50% by weight of a second material and less than 50% by weight of a first material, or at least 60% by weight of a second material and less than 40% by weight of a first material, or at least 70% by weight of a second material and less than 30% by weight of a first material, or at least 80% by weight of a second material and less than 20% by weight of a first material, or at least 90% by weight of a second material and less than 10% by weight of a first material.

[0037] Each heating region of the susceptor element may contain a second material. For example, a heating region may contain 90% by weight or less of a second material, or 80% by weight or less of a second material, or 70% by weight or less of a second material, or 60% by weight or less of a second material, or 50% by weight or less of a second material, or 40% by weight or less of a second material, or 30% by weight or less of a second material, or 20% by weight or less of a second material, or 10% or less of a second material.

[0038] The heating region may include at least 10% by weight of a first material and less than 90% by weight of a second material, or at least 20% by weight of a first material and less than 80% by weight of a second material, or at least 30% by weight of a first material and less than 70% by weight of a second material, or at least 40% by weight of a first material and less than 60% by weight of a second material, or at least 50% by weight of a first material and less than 50% by weight of a second material, or at least 60% by weight of a first material and less than 40% by weight of a second material, or at least 70% by weight of a first material and less than 30% by weight of a second material, or at least 80% by weight of a first material and less than 20% by weight of a second material, or at least 90% by weight of a first material and less than 10% by weight of a second material.

[0039] The heating region may comprise any preferred proportion of susceptor elements. For example, the heating region may comprise at least 90% of the surface area of ​​the susceptor elements, at least 80% of the surface area of ​​the susceptor elements, or at least 70% of the surface area of ​​the susceptor elements. The heating region may have any preferred size and shape for heating the aerosol-forming substrate at the required rate to generate a desired amount of inhalable aerosol.

[0040] At least one mounting area may comprise a susceptor element in any preferred proportion. Typically, at least one mounting area comprises a smaller proportion of susceptor elements than the heating area. For example, at least one mounting area may comprise 10% or less of the surface area of ​​the susceptor elements, or 20% or less of the surface area of ​​the susceptor elements, or 30% or less of the surface area of ​​the susceptor elements. At least one mounting area may have any preferred size and shape to provide a robust connection between the susceptor elements and the susceptor holder.

[0041] In some embodiments, at least one mounting area is located adjacent to the periphery of the heating area, the heating area has length and width, and at least one mounting area has length and width. Preferably, the length of at least one mounting area is less than the length of the heating area. In some embodiments, the length of at least one mounting area is 1 / 2 or less of the length of the heating area. In some embodiments, the length of at least one mounting area is 1 / 4 or less of the length of the heating area. Preferably, the width of at least one mounting area is less than the width of the heating area. In some embodiments, the width of at least one mounting area is 1 / 2 or less of the width of the heating area. In some embodiments, the width of at least one mounting area is 1 / 4 or less of the width of the heating area.

[0042] As used herein, the term “length” refers to the principal length along the longitudinal axis of a feature or part of a feature, such as a cartridge, susceptor assembly, susceptor element, heating area, and at least one mounting area. As used herein, the length of a feature refers to the principal length along the longitudinal axis of the feature, measured from one outer surface or edge of the feature to the opposite outer surface or edge of the feature. For example, if a feature is arched and the longitudinal axis extends radially with respect to the arc and passes through the apex of the arc, the length of the feature is defined as the distance measured along the longitudinal axis between one end of the arc and the apex of the arc. For example, if a feature is arched and the longitudinal axis extends radially with respect to the arc and passes through both ends of the arc, the length of the feature is defined as the distance measured along the longitudinal axis between the outer edges of both ends of the arc.

[0043] As used herein, the term “width” refers to the primary lateral dimension of a feature. The transverse direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. As used herein, the width of a feature refers to the primary transverse dimension of a feature, measured from one outer surface or edge of the feature to the opposite outer surface or edge of the feature.

[0044] As used herein, the term "thickness" refers to dimensions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the transverse direction.

[0045] In some embodiments, at least one mounting area is fixed to the susceptor holder. At least one mounting area may be fixed to the susceptor holder by adhesive.

[0046] At least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element can be positioned at any suitable location relative to the heating area of ​​the susceptor element. In some preferred embodiments, at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is located around the periphery of the susceptor element. For example, at least one mounting area may be located on one side of the susceptor element.

[0047] In some preferred embodiments, at least one mounting area comprises multiple mounting areas. A susceptor element may have any preferred number of mounting areas. For example, each susceptor element may include one, two, three, four, five, or six mounting areas. Advantageously, by providing a susceptor element with multiple mounting areas, a susceptor holder may be able to provide a more robust support to the susceptor element compared to a susceptor element having a single mounting area.

[0048] In some embodiments, the mounting area may comprise a first mounting area and a second mounting area, the first mounting area being located on one side of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area being located on the same side of the susceptor element as the first mounting area. In some of these embodiments, the first mounting area is located at a first end of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area is located at a second end of the susceptor element opposite to the first end.

[0049] In some embodiments, the mounting area comprises a first mounting area and a second mounting area, the first mounting area being located on a first side of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area being located on a second side of the susceptor element opposite to the first side. In some of these embodiments, the heating area has a length, and the first and second mounting areas are located at the same position along the length of the heating area. In some of these embodiments, the first and second mounting areas are located at one end of the susceptor element. In some of these embodiments, the heating area has a length, and the first and second mounting areas are located centrally along the length of the heating area. In some of these embodiments, the heating area has a length, and the first and second mounting areas are located at different positions along the length of the heating area. In some of these embodiments, the first mounting area is located at the first end of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area is located at the second end of the susceptor element opposite to the first end.

[0050] In some preferred embodiments, the mounting area comprises a first mounting area and a second mounting area, the second mounting area being located on the opposite side of the first mounting area.

[0051] In some preferred embodiments, the mounting regions comprise a first pair of mounting regions located at a first end of the susceptor element on an opposing side of the susceptor element, and a second pair of mounting regions located at a second end of the susceptor element on an opposing side of the susceptor element, wherein the second end of the susceptor element is opposite to the first end.

[0052] In some embodiments, the mounting area comprises a plurality of pairs of mounting areas, each pair comprising a first mounting area located on a first side of the susceptor element and a second mounting area located on a second side of the susceptor element, the second side of the susceptor element being opposite to the first side of the susceptor element.

[0053] In some embodiments, the multiple mounting areas comprise multiple pairs of mounting areas, each pair comprising a first mounting area and a second mounting area, the second mounting area being located on the opposite side of the first mounting area.

[0054] The susceptor element can take any preferred form. The susceptor element may include, for example, a mesh, a flat spiral coil, a fiber, or a cloth. In some embodiments, the susceptor element may include a sheet or a strip.

[0055] In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor element is substantially planar. The susceptor element can be planar. In other words, the susceptor element can generally extend in one plane. The susceptor element can be flat. The susceptor element can be thin. In other words, the susceptor element can have a thickness dimension that is substantially smaller than the width and length dimensions of the susceptor element.

[0056] The thickness of the susceptor element is advantageously 2 to 10 times the skin depth of the susceptor element material at the system's operating frequency. When multiple susceptor layers are used, having a thickness greater than the skin depth minimizes interaction between different susceptor layers. Having a susceptor layer less than 10 times the skin depth ensures that there is no excess mass of susceptor material to heat. Advantageously, the thickness of the susceptor or heating element assembly is 2 mm or less. This allows the heating element or multiple heating elements to be fixed inside and traversed through small airflow channels.

[0057] At least a portion of the susceptor element may be fluid-permeable. In some embodiments, the susceptor element may be fluid-permeable. As used herein, “fluid-permeable” element means an element that allows a liquid or gas to permeate through it. The susceptor element may have a plurality of openings formed in the susceptor element to allow a fluid to permeate through the susceptor element. In particular, the susceptor element may allow an aerosol-forming substrate, in the gas phase or in both the gas and liquid phases, to permeate through the openings.

[0058] In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor element may include a mesh. The susceptor element may include an array of filaments forming a mesh. As used herein, the term “mesh” encompasses grids and arrays of filaments having spaces between them. The term mesh also includes woven and nonwoven fabrics.

[0059] The filaments can define gaps between them, which may have a width of 10 to 100 micrometers. Preferably, the filaments are arranged to create capillary action within the gaps so that the source liquid is drawn into the gaps during use, increasing the contact area between the susceptor element and the liquid.

[0060] The filaments can form a mesh of size 160 to 600 mesh US (+ / - 10%) (i.e., 160 to 600 filaments per inch (+ / - 10%)). The gap width can be 35 to 140 micrometers, or 25 to 75 micrometers. For example, the gap width can be 40 micrometers or 63 micrometers. The ratio of the mesh opening area, which is the ratio of the gap area to the total mesh area, is preferably 25 to 56%. The mesh can be formed using different types of woven or lattice structures. Alternatively, the filaments consist of a series of filaments arranged parallel to each other.

[0061] Filaments can be formed by etching sheet materials such as foil. This can be particularly advantageous when the heating element assembly comprises an array of parallel filaments. If the heating element includes a mesh or cloth of filaments, the filaments can be formed individually or woven together.

[0062] Preferably, the mesh is sintered. The filaments of the mesh can be sintered together. Advantageously, sintering the mesh creates electrical coupling between filaments extending in different directions. In particular, if the mesh contains one or more woven and nonwoven fabrics, it is advantageous to sinter the mesh in such a way that electrical coupling is created between overlapping filaments.

[0063] Mesh can also be characterized by its ability to hold liquids, as is well known in the art.

[0064] The mesh filaments may have diameters of 8 to 100 micrometers, 30 to 100 micrometers, 8 to 50 micrometers, or 8 to 39 micrometers. The mesh filaments may have a diameter of 50 micrometers.

[0065] The mesh filament may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the filament may have a round cross-section or a flat cross-section.

[0066] Advantageously, mesh susceptor elements can have relative permeability ranging from 1 to 40,000. Lower permeability materials may be used when it is desirable to rely on eddy currents for most of the heating, and higher permeability materials may be used when a hysteresis effect is desired. Preferably, the material has a relative permeability of 500 to 40,000. This can provide efficient heating of the susceptor element.

[0067] If the susceptor element has a mesh, the heating region may include filaments of the first material. In some embodiments, the heating region may include filaments of the first material and filaments of the second material. The heating region may include filaments of the first material in a first direction and filaments of the second material in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0068] If the susceptor element comprises a mesh, at least one mounting region may include filaments of the second material. In some embodiments, at least one mounting region may include filaments of the first material and filaments of the second material. At least one mounting region may include filaments of the first material in a first direction and filaments of the second material in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0069] If the susceptor element has a mesh, the mesh may be woven. The woven mesh includes weft filaments and warp filaments.

[0070] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may include filaments of a second material in the weft direction. The susceptor holder may contact the susceptor element in at least one mounting area with respect to the weft-extending filaments. The susceptor holder may only contact the susceptor element in at least one mounting area with respect to the weft-extending filaments, and may not contact the warp-extending filaments. Advantageously, by forming weft-extending filaments from a second material in at least one mounting area, heat transfer from the susceptor element to the susceptor holder can be reduced compared to a susceptor element having weft-extending filaments formed from a first material in at least one mounting area.

[0071] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may include filaments of the first material in the weft direction and filaments of the second material in the warp direction, and at least one mounting area may include filaments of the second material in the weft direction and filaments of the second material in the warp direction.

[0072] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the first material in the weft direction and filaments of the second material in the warp direction, and at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the second material in the weft direction and filaments of the second material in the warp direction.

[0073] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may include filaments of the first material in the warp direction and filaments of the second material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area may include filaments of the second material in the warp direction and filaments of the second material in the weft direction.

[0074] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the first material in the warp direction and filaments of the second material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the second material in the warp direction and filaments of the second material in the weft direction.

[0075] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may include filaments of the first material in the weft direction and filaments of the first material in the warp direction, and at least one mounting area may include filaments of the first material in the weft direction and filaments of the second material in the warp direction.

[0076] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the first material in the weft direction and filaments of the first material in the warp direction, and at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the first material in the weft direction and filaments of the second material in the warp direction.

[0077] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may include filaments of the first material in the warp direction and filaments of the first material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area may include filaments of the first material in the warp direction and filaments of the second material in the weft direction.

[0078] If the susceptor element comprises a woven mesh, at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the first material in the warp direction and filaments of the first material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area may consist of filaments of the first material in the warp direction and filaments of the second material in the weft direction.

[0079] The susceptor assembly may be surrounded by a permeable electrical insulating coating. The coating may include or consist of a permeable ceramic material. When the susceptor assembly is coated, the coating may hold the components of the susceptor element so that the components are fixed together. The coating may advantageously improve the robustness and strength of the susceptor assembly. The coating may be provided as an alternative to or in addition to the holder described above. The coating may include alumina (Al2O3) or silicon-based ceramic material. The coating may have a porosity of about 30%.

[0080] The susceptor assembly may include a wicking element. The wicking element may be in fluid communication with the susceptor element. The wicking element may be in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir. The wicking element may be configured to transport an aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir to the susceptor element.

[0081] The wicking element may include capillary material. Capillary material is a material that has the ability to move liquid from one end to the other by capillary action. Capillary material may have a fibrous or spongy structure. Capillary material preferably includes a bundle of capillaries. For example, capillary material may include a plurality of fibers or threads, or other microtubules. The fibers or threads may generally be aligned to carry the liquid aerosol-forming substrate toward the susceptor element. In some embodiments, the capillary material may include spongy or foamy material. The structure of the capillary material may form a plurality of small holes or tubes through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can move by capillary action. If the susceptor element has gaps or openings, the capillary material may extend into the gaps or openings within the susceptor element. The susceptor element may draw the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the gaps or openings by capillary action.

[0082] The wicking element may include an electrically insulating material. The wicking element may include a thermally insulating material. The wicking element may include a hydrophilic material. The wicking element may include a lipophilic material. Advantageously, forming the wicking element from a hydrophilic or lipophilic material may facilitate the transport of the aerosol-forming substrate through the wicking element.

[0083] The wicking element may include non-metallic materials. Examples of suitable materials for the wicking element include sponge or foam materials, ceramic or graphite materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamable metal or plastic materials, fibrous materials such as spun fibers or extruded fibers (cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramics, etc.). Suitable materials for the wicking element may include cellulose materials such as cotton or rayon. Preferably, the wicking element may include rayon. The wicking element is made of rayon. A wicking element containing a porous ceramic material may be particularly advantageous when one or both of the susceptor elements contain a conductive material deposited on the wicking element. A wicking element containing a porous ceramic material may be advantageous as a substrate for manufacturing processes related to the deposition of conductive materials.

[0084] The susceptor assembly may be configured to hold a volume of liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, the susceptor assembly may be configured to hold only a small amount of liquid aerosol-forming substrate, sufficient for a single user smoke inhalation. This is advantageous because it allows for the rapid vaporization of a small amount of liquid and minimizes heat loss to other elements of the system or to the unvaporized liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, the susceptor assembly, or the heated region of the susceptor assembly, may hold 1 to 10 milliliters of liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0085] The cartridge includes a susceptor holder. The susceptor holder makes contact with one mounting area even without the susceptor element. The susceptor holder secures the susceptor assembly in place within the cartridge.

[0086] The susceptor holder is configured to withstand the temperature at which the susceptor assembly is heated for the heating of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0087] The susceptor holder may be formed from any suitable material capable of withstanding the temperature at which the susceptor is heated for heating of the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the susceptor holder includes an insulating material. Advantageously, forming the susceptor holder from an insulating material can minimize heat transfer from the susceptor element to the susceptor holder. Preferably, the susceptor holder includes an electrically insulating material. The susceptor holder may be formed from a durable material. The susceptor holder may be formed from a liquid-impermeable material. The susceptor holder may be formed from a moldable plastic material such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0088] The susceptor holder may have any suitable shape and size.

[0089] In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor holder is tubular. A tubular susceptor may define an internal passage. In some embodiments, the susceptor assembly extends within the internal passage of the susceptor holder. In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor element extends within the internal passage of the susceptor holder. The susceptor element may extend across the internal passage of the susceptor holder. If the susceptor element extends across the internal passage of the susceptor holder, the susceptor element may have a first mounting area on a first side of the susceptor element that contacts the susceptor holder, and a second mounting area on a second side of the susceptor element opposite to the first side that contacts the susceptor holder. Advantageously, by positioning the susceptor element to contact the susceptor holder on opposing sides, the susceptor holder may be able to securely fix the susceptor element in place within the cartridge.

[0090] The internal passages of the susceptor holder may extend substantially along the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the susceptor elements are substantially planar and extend parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the susceptor elements are substantially planar and extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0091] In some embodiments, the internal passage of the susceptor holder may form part of the air passage of the cartridge. In these embodiments, the heating region of the susceptor element may be located in the internal passage of the susceptor holder, and the mounting region may be located in the space.

[0092] In some embodiments, the internal passage of the susceptor holder may form part of the cartridge's liquid reservoir. In these embodiments, at least one mounting region of the susceptor element may extend into the internal passage of the susceptor holder.

[0093] A tubular susceptor holder may have at least one side wall. A tubular susceptor holder may have an open end such that the internal passage of the susceptor holder is open at at least one end. At least one side wall of the tubular susceptor holder may define an opening between the ends of the tubular susceptor holder. At least one mounting region of the susceptor element may extend into the opening of the tubular susceptor holder. In some embodiments, if the susceptor element has multiple mounting regions, at least one side wall of the tubular susceptor holder defines multiple openings between the ends of the tubular susceptor holder. In these embodiments, each mounting region of the susceptor element may extend into one of the multiple openings of at least one side wall of the tubular susceptor holder.

[0094] A susceptor holder can be molded onto a susceptor assembly. The molded susceptor holder can hold together one or more components of the susceptor assembly, such as susceptor elements and wicking elements, so that the components are fixed together. The susceptor holder can be formed from a heat-resistant plastic or ceramic material. Thus, the holder can support the susceptor assembly and provide strength to it.

[0095] At least a portion of the susceptor holder may include a porous or permeable material, such as a ceramic material. The porous or permeable portion of the susceptor holder may be the region of the susceptor holder to which at least one mounting region of the susceptor assembly is mounted. Aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir may pass through the porous or permeable portion of the susceptor holder to the mounting region of the susceptor assembly. This advantageously provides a pathway for the aerosol-forming substrate to be transported from the liquid reservoir to the susceptor assembly, and can increase the amount of aerosol-forming substrate supplied to the susceptor assembly.

[0096] A portion of the susceptor holder containing a porous or permeable material may include alumina (Al2O3) or silicon-based ceramic material. A portion may have a porosity of approximately 30%.

[0097] Here, the cartridge comprises a liquid reservoir. The liquid reservoir may be configured to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid reservoir may have any preferred shape and size depending on the requirements of the aerosol generation system.

[0098] In some embodiments, the liquid reservoir contains a retaining material for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. If the liquid reservoir comprises multiple parts, the retaining material may be located in one or more parts of the liquid reservoir, or in all parts of the liquid reservoir. The retaining material may be a foam material, a sponge material, or a fibrous collectible. The retaining material may be formed from a polymer or copolymer. In one embodiment, the retaining material is a spun polymer. The retaining material may be formed from any of the materials described above that are suitable for the wicking element.

[0099] If the cartridge includes a wicking element and a retaining material, the wicking element and the retaining material may be formed from the same material or different materials. The retaining material may be in fluid communication with the susceptor assembly. The retaining material may be in contact with the susceptor assembly. In particular, the retaining material may be in contact with the wicking element of the susceptor assembly. In particular, the retaining material may be in contact with the wicking element of the susceptor assembly.

[0100] The cartridge may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate. As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate having the ability to release volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the cartridge contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0101] The aerosol-forming substrate may be liquid at room temperature. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain both liquid and solid components. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain plant-derived materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco-containing materials that contain volatile tobacco-flavored compounds released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco-containing materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized plant-derived materials.

[0102] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain one or more aerosol-forming elements. The aerosol-forming elements are any suitable known compounds or mixtures of compounds that facilitate the formation of a high-density, stable aerosol during use and are substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the system's operating temperature. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming elements include glycerin and propylene glycol. Suitable aerosol-forming elements are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanediate and dimethyl tetradecanediate). The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain water, a solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavors.

[0103] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine and at least one aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol-forming agent may be glycerin or propylene glycol. The aerosol-forming agent may contain both glycerin and propylene glycol. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may have a nicotine concentration of about 0.5% to about 10% (e.g., about 2%).

[0104] The cartridge may include an outer housing. The outer housing may be formed from a durable material. The outer housing may be formed from a liquid-impermeable material. The outer housing may be formed from a moldable plastic material such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The outer housing may be formed from the same material as the susceptor holder, or from a different material.

[0105] The susceptor assembly may be housed within the outer housing. The susceptor holder may also be housed within the outer housing. In some embodiments, the susceptor holder may be integrally formed with the outer housing.

[0106] The outer housing may define a portion of the liquid reservoir. The outer housing may define the liquid reservoir. The outer housing and the liquid reservoir may be formed integrally. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir may be formed separately from the outer housing and disposed within the outer housing.

[0107] In some preferred embodiments where the cartridge has an outer housing, a susceptor holder may secure the susceptor assembly to the outer housing. Advantageously, by providing the cartridge with a susceptor holder that secures the susceptor assembly to the housing, the susceptor assembly can be isolated from the outer housing, and as a result, the outer housing does not need to be configured to withstand the heating of the susceptor assembly for heating the aerosol-forming substrate. This may allow the cartridge to be fabricated from less durable and less expensive materials.

[0108] The cartridge may comprise two parts: a first part and a second part. The second part may be movable relative to the first part. The first and second parts of the cartridge may be movable relative to each other between a storage configuration and a use configuration. In the storage configuration, the susceptor assembly may be isolated from the aerosol-forming substrate. In the use configuration, the susceptor assembly may be supplied to the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0109] A liquid reservoir may comprise two parts: a first part and a second part. A seal may be provided between the first part and the second part. The seal may be positioned to block fluid communication between the first part of the liquid reservoir and the second part of the liquid reservoir. In other words, the seal may fluidly isolate the first part of the liquid reservoir from the second part. In the storage configuration, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be held in the first part of the liquid reservoir. In the storage configuration, the seal may prevent the aerosol-forming substrate from flowing from the first part of the liquid reservoir to the second part.

[0110] The first part of the cartridge may comprise a first part of a liquid reservoir and a seal. The second part of the cartridge may comprise a susceptor holder and a susceptor assembly. The susceptor holder may comprise one or more puncture elements. The one or more puncture elements may be positioned to puncture or penetrate the seal of the second part of the cartridge when the first and second parts of the cartridge are moved from a storage configuration to a use configuration.

[0111] When the first and second parts of the cartridge are moved from the storage configuration to the use configuration, one or more puncture elements of the susceptor holder may puncture the seal, allowing the aerosol-forming substrate to flow from the first part of the liquid reservoir to the second part of the liquid reservoir.

[0112] The susceptor assembly may extend into a second portion of the liquid reservoir. If the susceptor assembly includes a wicking element, a portion of the wicking element may extend into the second portion of the liquid reservoir. Thus, when the cartridge is in storage configuration, the susceptor assembly is isolated from the aerosol-forming substrate, and when the cartridge is in use configuration, the susceptor assembly is supplied with the aerosol-forming substrate from the second portion of the liquid reservoir.

[0113] The seal may be any suitable type of seal for preventing fluid flow between the first part of the liquid reservoir and the second part of the liquid reservoir. For example, the seal may comprise a metal foil, a plastic foil, or an elastomer seal.

[0114] The first and second parts of the cartridge may be movable relative to each other in any preferred manner. In some embodiments, the first and second parts of the cartridge may be slidable relative to each other. In some embodiments, the first and second parts of the cartridge may be rotatable relative to each other.

[0115] If the susceptor holder is a tubular susceptor holder and the inner passage of the susceptor holder forms part of the air passage of the cartridge, the second portion of the liquid reservoir may be formed between the outer surface of the susceptor holder and the inner surface of the outer housing. In these embodiments, the second portion of the liquid reservoir may have an annular space between the susceptor holder and the outer housing. In these embodiments, one or more puncture elements may be positioned on the outer surface of the susceptor holder.

[0116] If the susceptor holder is a tubular susceptor holder and the inner passage of the susceptor holder forms part of the liquid reservoir of the cartridge, a second portion of the liquid reservoir may be formed by the inner passage of the susceptor holder. In these embodiments, one or more puncture elements may be positioned on the inner surface of the susceptor holder within the inner passage.

[0117] The cartridge may have a mouth end through which the generated aerosol can be drawn by the user. The cartridge may also have a connection end configured to connect to an aerosol generating device.

[0118] If the susceptor assembly comprises a substantially planar susceptor element, the first side of the susceptor element may face the mouth end, and the second side of the susceptor element may face the connection end. However, preferably, the planar susceptor element extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge and between the mouth end and the connection end. If the planar susceptor element extends in a plane substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, the first and second sides of the susceptor element face opposing sides of the cartridge, rather than the mouth end and connection end of the cartridge.

[0119] The cartridge may define an air inlet. The air inlet may be located at or around the connecting end of the cartridge. The cartridge may define a mouth-end opening. The user may be able to draw in the aerosol generated from the cartridge through the mouth-end opening. The cartridge may define an air passage extending from the air inlet to the air outlet. The enclosed air passage may extend from the air inlet, through a susceptor element, to the mouth-end opening.

[0120] The enclosed air passage may pass through the liquid reservoir. For example, the liquid reservoir may have an annular cross-section defining an internal passage, and the air passage may extend through the internal passage of the liquid reservoir.

[0121] If the susceptor holder is a tubular susceptor holder, the internal passage of the tubular susceptor holder may form part of the enclosed air passage. The enclosed air passage may extend from the air inlet at the connection end of the cartridge, through the internal passage of the tubular susceptor holder, through the internal passage of the liquid reservoir, to the mouth end opening.

[0122] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the air passage is defined between the susceptor holder and the outer housing of the cartridge. At least a portion of the air passage may be defined between the liquid reservoir and the outer housing of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the enclosed air passage may extend from the air inlet at the connecting end of the cartridge, through the passage between the susceptor holder and the outer housing, and through the passage between the liquid reservoir and the outer housing to the mouth end opening.

[0123] The present disclosure also provides a cartridge for an aerosol generation system, the cartridge comprising a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and a susceptor assembly in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. The susceptor assembly comprises a susceptor element having an array of filaments forming a woven mesh. The woven mesh comprises filaments of a first material in the weft direction. The woven mesh further comprises filaments of a second material in the warp direction.

[0124] In some preferred embodiments, the first material is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field. The first material may include any suitable magnetic material. For example, the first material may include ferritic stainless steel. Suitable ferritic stainless steels include AISI 400 series stainless steels such as AISI type 409, 410, 420, and 430 stainless steels.

[0125] In some preferred embodiments, the second material is a non-magnetic metal. The second material can be any suitable non-magnetic material. In some preferred embodiments, the second material is a non-magnetic austenitic stainless steel. Suitable austenitic stainless steels include AISI 300 series stainless steels such as AISI type 304, 309, and 316 stainless steels. The second material can be a non-magnetic ceramic, plastic, or cellulose material. In some embodiments, the second material can be cotton or rayon.

[0126] The cartridge may further comprise a susceptor holder. The susceptor holder may contact the susceptor element in a filament extending in the weft direction. Advantageously, contacting the filament in the warp direction may minimize heat transfer from the susceptor element to the susceptor holder. The susceptor holder may contact the susceptor element at multiple locations. In some embodiments, the susceptor holder contacts the susceptor element at a first and a second position, where the first and second positions are spaced apart in the warp direction.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first material is a non-magnetic material, and the second material is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration with an alternating magnetic field. In these embodiments, the cartridge may further comprise a susceptor holder that can contact a susceptor element with latitudinal filaments. In these embodiments, the susceptor holder can contact the susceptor element at multiple positions. The susceptor holder can contact the susceptor element at a first position and a second position, the first and second positions being spaced apart latitudually.

[0128] According to this disclosure, an aerosol generation system is provided, comprising a cartridge as described herein and an aerosol generation device configured to receive the cartridge.

[0129] This disclosure provides an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device having a susceptor assembly and a susceptor holder as described herein. The aerosol generating device may also comprise a liquid reservoir as described herein. Such an aerosol generating system includes the features of a cartridge as described herein within the aerosol generating device.

[0130] The aerosol generating system may be a handheld aerosol generating system configured to allow the user to inhale the mouthpiece and draw out an aerosol through the mouth-side opening. The aerosol generating system may be comparable in size to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating system may have an overall length of approximately 30 mm to 150 mm. The aerosol generating system may have an outer diameter of approximately 5 mm to 30 mm.

[0131] The aerosol generation system may be configured to deliver nicotine or cannabinoids to the user.

[0132] The aerosol generating device may include an inductive heating assembly. The inductive heating assembly may include at least one inductor coil, a power supply, and a control circuit. The power supply and control circuit are connected to the at least one inductor coil and configured to supply an alternating current to the at least one inductor coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor assembly may be positioned so as to be penetrated by the alternating magnetic field from the at least one inductor coil so that the susceptor element is heated by the alternating magnetic field.

[0133] If the aerosol generation system includes a cartridge, at least one inductor coil may be positioned within the device such that an alternating magnetic field penetrates the cartridge, particularly the susceptor assembly within the cartridge, when the cartridge is received by the aerosol generation device. The aerosol generation device may include a cavity for receiving the cartridge. At least one inductor coil may be positioned such that an alternating magnetic field penetrates the cavity. At least one inductor coil may be positioned in, within, or around the cavity. In some embodiments, at least one inductor coil may substantially surround the cavity. At least one inductor coil may be a tubular, helical, or spiral coil that substantially surrounds the cavity. In other embodiments, the coil may be positioned on the side of the cavity.

[0134] In some embodiments where the susceptor element is planar and extends parallel to the plane, at least one inductor coil may be positioned to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor assembly in a direction substantially parallel to the plane.

[0135] In some embodiments where the susceptor element is planar and extends parallel to the plane, at least one coil may be positioned to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor assembly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane.

[0136] An induction heating assembly may have any suitable number of inductor coils. An aerosol generation system may have one inductor coil. An aerosol generation system may have multiple inductor coils. An inductive heating assembly may have one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight coils.

[0137] At least one inductor coil may have any preferred shape. In some embodiments, at least one coil may be tubular or helical. In some embodiments, at least one coil may be planar or flat. A tubular or helical coil may surround a susceptor assembly. A planar or flat coil may be positioned on one side of the susceptor assembly. A planar or flat coil may be circular, elliptical, or rectangular. Preferably, the shape of the planar or flat coil substantially corresponds to the shape of the susceptor element.

[0138] If the susceptor assembly is substantially planar, and in particular the susceptor elements are planar, extending parallel to a first plane, then at least one coil may be a flat coil extending to a second plane, substantially parallel to the first plane. In this arrangement, at least one inductor coil is positioned to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor assembly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane.

[0139] In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor assembly comprises a planar susceptor assembly, and the inductive heating assembly comprises a first planar coil and a second planar coil. The planar susceptor assembly extends in a first plane, the first inductor coil extends in a second plane parallel to the first plane, and the second inductor coil extends in a third plane parallel to the first and second planes. The susceptor assembly may be positioned between the first and second inductor coils. In this arrangement, the first inductor coil generates an alternating magnetic field penetrating the susceptor assembly from a first side facing the first side in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane, and the second inductor coil generates an alternating magnetic field penetrating the susceptor assembly from a second side facing the first side in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane. Advantageously, such an arrangement can provide efficient and uniform heating of the susceptor element. The inventors discovered that this configuration allows for the supply of a relatively low-frequency alternating current to the inductor coil, resulting in the generation of a lower-frequency alternating magnetic field, which in turn allows for the supply of the alternating current using a simpler and less expensive control circuit. The inventors also discovered that this configuration allows for the inductor coil to be spaced at a greater distance from the susceptor assembly than other configurations, while maintaining the desired aerosol generation from the aerosol generation system.

[0140] In these preferred embodiments, the inductive heating assembly is configured such that the first and second inductor coils generate alternating magnetic fields of similar magnitude in opposite directions. In some of these preferred embodiments, the first and second inductor coils may be electrically connected to form a single conductive path. In these embodiments, the first inductor coil may be wound in the opposite sense to that of the second inductor coil so that the alternating magnetic fields generated by the first and second inductor coils are generated in opposite directions. Alternatively, the first and second inductor coils may be wound in the same sense, and the control circuit may be configured to supply alternating current to each of the first and second inductor coils so that the alternating magnetic fields generated by the first and second inductor coils are generated in opposite directions. The first inductor coil may be substantially identical to the second inductor coil. The first and second inductor coils may be substantially identical but wound in opposite senses.

[0141] In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor element is substantially planar and extends parallel to a first plane, and at least one inductor coil comprises a first inductor coil and a second inductor coil, the first inductor coil being located on a first side of the susceptor assembly and extending parallel to the first plane, and the second inductor coil being located on a second side of the susceptor assembly opposite to the first side and extending parallel to the first plane. The susceptor element may be located between the first and second inductor coils. Preferably, the susceptor element is substantially equidistant from the first and second inductor coils. The system may be configured so that the first and second inductor coils generate magnetic fields equal to and opposite to each other. Advantageously, the control circuit may be configured to supply current to the inductor coils such that the first inductor coil provides an equal and opposite force to the second inductor coil on the susceptor assembly.

[0142] The inductive heating assembly may further comprise at least one flux concentrator arranged to include an alternating magnetic field generated by at least one inductor coil.

[0143] The control circuit may include a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuit capable of providing control. The control circuit may be configured to continuously supply power to at least one inductor coil after the device is started up, or to supply power intermittently, such as with each smoke extraction. Power may be supplied to the induction heating assembly in the form of current pulses, for example by pulse width modulation (PWM). The control circuit may advantageously include a DC / AC inverter, which may include a Class D or Class E power amplifier. The control circuit may include further electronic components. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit may include a sensor, a switch, or a display element.

[0144] The power source may be a DC power source. The power source may be a battery. The battery may be a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt battery, lithium iron phosphate battery, lithium titanate battery, or lithium polymer battery. The battery may be a nickel-metal hydride battery or a nickel-cadmium battery. The power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may be rechargeable and may be configured for numerous charge-discharge cycles. The power source may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy for one or more user experiences of the aerosol generation system. For example, the power source may have a capacity that allows for continuous aerosol generation for about 6 minutes, or a multiple of 6 minutes, corresponding to the typical time it takes to smoke one conventional cigarette. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity that allows for a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous startup of the atomizing assembly.

[0145] The control circuit and power supply may be configured to supply alternating current to at least one inductor coil. As used herein, “alternating current” means a current that periodically reverses direction. The alternating current may have any preferred frequency. Preferred frequencies for the alternating current may be between 100 kilohertz (kHz) and 30 megahertz (MHz). If at least one inductor coil is a tubular coil, the alternating current may have a frequency between 500 kilohertz (kHz) and 30 megahertz (MHz). If at least one inductor coil is a flat coil, the alternating current may have a frequency between 100 kilohertz (kHz) and 1 megahertz (MHz).

[0146] When an alternating current is driven through at least one inductor coil, the at least one inductor coil generates an alternating magnetic field. The alternating magnetic field may have any suitable frequency for heating the heating region of the susceptor element located within the alternating magnetic field. Suitable frequencies for the alternating current may be between 100 kilohertz (kHz) and 30 megahertz (MHz).

[0147] The aerosol generating device may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may contain any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic resins suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. The material is preferably light and non-brittle.

[0148] The aerosol generating device housing may define a cavity for receiving a cartridge. The aerosol generating device may have one or more air inlets. One or more air inlets may allow ambient air to be drawn into the cavity.

[0149] The aerosol generating device may have a connection terminal configured to connect to a cartridge. The connection terminal may have a cavity for receiving the cartridge.

[0150] The aerosol generating device may have a distal end opposite the connection end. The distal end may include an electrical connector configured to connect the aerosol generating device to an electrical connector of an external power supply in order to charge the power supply of the aerosol generating device.

[0151] Any feature described herein in relation to one embodiment of a cartridge or aerosol generating device may be applied to other embodiments of the cartridge and aerosol generating device according to this disclosure. Features described in relation to one embodiment may be equally applied to another embodiment according to this disclosure. It may also be understood that the aerosol generating system according to this disclosure may be provided as an aerosol generating device without a cartridge. Therefore, any feature described herein in relation to a cartridge may be equally applied to an aerosol generating device.

[0152] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0153] Example 1 A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, wherein the cartridge is A liquid reservoir for holding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, A susceptor assembly that communicates fluidly with a liquid reservoir, wherein the susceptor assembly comprises a susceptor element, and the susceptor element is A heating region comprising a first material, wherein the first material is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field, A susceptor assembly comprising a susceptor element having a mounting region comprising at least one mounting region comprising a second material, wherein the second material is a non-magnetic material, A susceptor holder comprising a susceptor holder wherein at least one mounting area of ​​a susceptor element is in contact with the susceptor holder, The cartridge is such that the weight proportion of the first material in the heating region is greater than the weight proportion of the first material in at least one mounting region. Example 2: The cartridge according to Example 1, wherein at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is located around the susceptor element. Example 3: The cartridge according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the susceptor holder contains an electrically insulating material. Example 4: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the susceptor holder contains an insulating material. Example 5: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the cartridge comprises an outer housing and a susceptor holder secures the susceptor assembly to the outer housing. Example 6: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the second material is an electrically insulating material. Example 7: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the second material is a thermal insulation material. Example 8: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the second material is nonmetallic. Example 9: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the second material is a hydrophilic material. Example 10: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the second material is a lipophilic material. Example 11: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the second material comprises a cellulose-based material. Example 12: The cartridge according to Example 11, wherein the second material comprises rayon. Example 13: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the first material includes ferritic stainless steel. Example 14 The heating region of the susceptor element is At least 10% by weight of the first material, or At least 20% by weight of the first material, or At least 30% by weight of the first material, or At least 40% by weight of the first material, or At least 50% by weight of the first material, or At least 60% by weight of the first material, or At least 70% by weight of the first material, or At least 80% by weight of the first material, or A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, comprising at least 90% by weight of the first material. Example 15 At least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is 90% by weight or less of the first material, or 80% or less of the first material's gravity, or 70% by weight or less of the first material, or 60% by weight or less of the first material, or 50% by weight or less of the first material, or 40% by weight or less of the first material, or 30% by weight or less of the first material, or 20% by weight or less of the first material, or A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, comprising 10% by weight or less of the first material. Example 16 The heating region of the susceptor element is 90% or less by weight of the second material, or 80% by weight or less of the second material, or 70% by weight or less of the second material, or 60% by weight or less of the second material, or 50% by weight or less of the second material, or 40% by weight or less of the second material, or 30% by weight or less of the second material, or 20% by weight or less of the second material, or A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, comprising 10% by weight or less of the second material. Example 17 At least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is At least 10% by weight of the second material, or At least 20% by weight of the second material, or At least 30% by weight of the second material, or At least 40% by weight of the second material, or At least 50% by weight of the second material, or At least 60% by weight of the second material, or At least 70% by weight of the second material, or At least 80% by weight of the second material, or A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, comprising at least 90% by weight of the second material. Example 18 The heating region of the susceptor element is At least 10% by weight of the first material, and less than 90% by weight of the second material, At least 20% by weight of the first material, and less than 80% by weight of the second material, At least 30% by weight of the first material, and less than 70% by weight of the second material, At least 40% by weight of the first material, and less than 60% by weight of the second material, At least 50% by weight of the first material, and less than 50% by weight of the second material, At least 60% by weight of the first material, and less than 40% by weight of the second material, At least 70% by weight of the first material, and less than 30% by weight of the second material, At least 80% by weight of the first material, and less than 20% by weight of the second material, A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, comprising at least 90% by weight of the first material and less than 10% by weight of the second material. Example 19 At least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is At least 10% by weight of the second material, and less than 90% by weight of the first material, or At least 20% by weight of the second material, and less than 80% by weight of the first material, or At least 30% by weight of the second material, and less than 70% by weight of the first material, At least 40% by weight of the second material, and less than 60% by weight of the first material, At least 50% by weight of the second material, and less than 50% by weight of the first material, At least 60% by weight of the second material, and less than 40% by weight of the first material, or At least 70% by weight of the second material, and less than 30% by weight of the first material, At least 80% by weight of the second material, and less than 20% by weight of the first material, A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, comprising at least 90% by weight of the second material and less than 10% by weight of the first material. Example 20 The heating region of the susceptor element contains at least 90% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element contains less than 10% by weight of the first material, or The heating region of the susceptor element contains at least 80% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element contains less than 20% by weight of the first material, or The heating region of the susceptor element contains at least 70% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element contains less than 30% by weight of the first material, or The heating region of the susceptor element contains at least 60% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element contains less than 40% by weight of the first material, or The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the heating region of the susceptor element contains at least 50% by weight of the first material, and at least one mounting region of the susceptor element contains less than 50% by weight of the first material. Example 21: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the heating region of the susceptor element is made of the first material. Example 22: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is made of a second material. Example 23: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the susceptor element is fluid permeable. Example 24: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the susceptor element comprises an array of filaments forming a mesh. Example 25: The cartridge described in Example 24, wherein the mesh is nonwoven. Example 26: The cartridge described in Example 24, wherein the mesh is woven. Example 27 The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area may include a filament of the first material in the latitudinal direction and a filament of the second material in the longitudinal direction, and at least one mounting area may include a filament of the second material in the latitudinal direction and a filament of the second material in the longitudinal direction. Example 28: The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the first material in the latitudinal direction and a filament of the second material in the longitudinal direction, and at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the second material in the latitudinal direction and a filament of the second material in the longitudinal direction. Example 29 The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area may include a filament of the first material in the warp direction and a filament of the second material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area may include a filament of the second material in the warp direction and a filament of the second material in the weft direction. Example 30: The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the first material in the warp direction and a filament of the second material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the second material in the warp direction and a filament of the second material in the weft direction. Example 31: The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area includes a filament of the first material in the latitudinal direction and a filament of the first material in the longitudinal direction, and at least one mounting area includes a filament of the first material in the latitudinal direction and a filament of the second material in the longitudinal direction. Example 32: The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the first material in the weft direction and a filament of the first material in the warp direction, and at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the first material in the weft direction and a filament of the second material in the warp direction. Example 33: The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area includes a filament of the first material in the warp direction and a filament of the first material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area includes a filament of the first material in the warp direction and a filament of the second material in the weft direction. Example 34: The cartridge according to Example 26, wherein at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the first material in the warp direction and a filament of the first material in the weft direction, and at least one mounting area consists of a filament of the first material in the warp direction and a filament of the second material in the weft direction. Example 35: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 34, wherein the susceptor element is substantially planar. Example 36: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 35, wherein the susceptor holder is tubular, defines an internal passage, and the susceptor element extends within the internal passage of the susceptor holder. Example 37: The cartridge according to Example 36, wherein the susceptor element extends across the internal passage of the susceptor holder. Example 38: The cartridge according to Example 36 or 37, wherein the internal passage of the susceptor holder extends substantially along the longitudinal axis, and the susceptor element is substantially planar and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. Example 39: The cartridge according to Example 36 or 37, wherein the internal passage of the susceptor holder extends substantially along the longitudinal axis, and the susceptor element is substantially planar and extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Example 40: The cartridge according to any one of Examples 36 to 39, wherein the susceptor holder comprises at least one side wall, and at least one side wall of the tubular susceptor holder defines an opening between the ends of the tubular susceptor holder. Example 41: The cartridge according to Example 40, wherein at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element extends into the opening of a tubular susceptor holder. Example 42: The cartridge according to Example 40, wherein at least one side wall of the tubular susceptor holder defines a plurality of openings between the ends of the susceptor holder, and at least one mounting area comprises a plurality of mounting areas, and each mounting area of ​​the susceptor element extends into one of the plurality of openings of the at least one side wall of the tubular susceptor holder. Example 43: The cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 42, wherein the susceptor holder is in contact with a second material in at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element. Example 44: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 43, wherein at least one mounting area comprises multiple mounting areas. Example 45 The cartridge according to Example 44, wherein a plurality of mounting areas may comprise a first mounting area and a second mounting area, the first mounting area being located on one side of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area being located on the same side of the susceptor element as the first mounting area. Example 46: The cartridge according to Example 45, wherein the first mounting area is located at the first end of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area is located at the second end of the susceptor element opposite to the first end. Example 47: The cartridge according to Example 44, wherein a plurality of mounting areas comprises a first mounting area and a second mounting area, the first mounting area being located on a first side of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area being located on a second side of the susceptor element opposite to the first side. Example 48: The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the heating region has a length, and the first mounting region and the second mounting region are positioned at the same location along the length of the heating region. Example 49: The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the first mounting area and the second mounting area are located at one end of the susceptor element. Example 50: The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the heating region has a length, and the first mounting region and the second mounting region are positioned centrally along the length of the heating region. Example 51: The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the heating region has a length, and the first mounting region and the second mounting region are positioned at different locations along the length of the heating region. Example 52: The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the first mounting area is located at the first end of the susceptor element, and the second mounting area is located at the second end of the susceptor element opposite to the first end. Example 53: The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the plurality of mounting areas comprises a first mounting area and a second mounting area, and the second mounting area is located on the opposite side of the first mounting area. Example 54 Multiple mounting areas, The first end of the susceptor element, located on the opposing side of the susceptor element, comprises a first pair of mounting regions, The cartridge according to Embodiment 47, comprising a second pair of mounting regions located at the second end of the susceptor element on the opposing side surface of the susceptor element, wherein the second end of the susceptor element faces the first end of the second pair of mounting regions. Example 55 The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the plurality of mounting areas comprises a plurality of pairs of mounting areas, each pair of mounting areas comprising a first mounting area located on a first side of the susceptor element and a second mounting area located on a second side of the susceptor element, the second side of the susceptor element being opposite to the first side of the susceptor element. Example 56: The cartridge according to Example 47, wherein the plurality of mounting areas comprises a plurality of pairs of mounting areas, each pair of mounting areas comprising a first mounting area and a second mounting area, the second mounting area being located on the opposite side of the first mounting area. Example 57 A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 56, wherein at least one mounting area is located adjacent to the periphery of the heating area, the heating area has a length and a width, and at least one mounting area has a length and a width. Example 58: The cartridge according to Example 57, wherein the length of at least one mounting area is less than the length of the heating area. Example 59: The cartridge according to Example 58, wherein the length of at least one mounting area is less than 3 / 4 of the length of the heating area. Example 60: The cartridge according to Example 58, wherein the length of at least one mounting area is less than half the length of the heating area. Example 61: The cartridge according to Example 58, wherein the length of at least one mounting area is less than 1 / 4 of the length of the heating area. Example 62: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 57 to 61, wherein the width of at least one mounting area is smaller than the width of the heating area. Example 63: The cartridge according to Example 62, wherein the length of at least one mounting area is less than 3 / 4 of the length of the heating area. Example 64: The cartridge according to Example 62, wherein the length of at least one mounting area is less than half the length of the heating area. Example 65: The cartridge according to Example 62, wherein the length of at least one mounting area is less than 1 / 4 of the length of the heating area. Example 66 A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, wherein the cartridge is A liquid reservoir for holding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, A susceptor assembly that fluidly communicates with a liquid reservoir, comprising a susceptor element having an array of filaments forming a woven mesh, wherein the woven mesh is The first material filament in the latitudinal direction, A cartridge comprising a filament of a second material in the longitudinal direction. Example 67: The cartridge according to Example 66, wherein the first material is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field, and the second material is a non-magnetic material. Example 68: The cartridge according to Example 66 or 67, wherein the cartridge further comprises a susceptor holder, the susceptor holder in contact with a susceptor element by a latitudinal filament. Example 69: The cartridge according to Example 68, wherein the susceptor holder is in contact with the susceptor element at a first position and a second position, and the first position and the second position are spaced apart in the latitudinal direction. Example 70: The cartridge according to Example 66, wherein the first material is a non-magnetic material and the second material is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field. Example 71 The cartridge according to Example 70, wherein the cartridge further comprises a susceptor holder, the susceptor holder in contact with a susceptor element by a longitudinal filament. Example 72: The cartridge according to Example 71, wherein the susceptor holder is in contact with the susceptor element at a first position and a second position, and the first position and the second position are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. Example 73: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 67 to 72, wherein the magnetic material includes ferritic stainless steel. Example 74: The cartridge according to Example 73, wherein the ferritic stainless steel comprises one of AISI 430, 420, or 410. Example 75: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 67 to 74, wherein the non-magnetic material comprises AISI304 or 316. Example 75 A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 74, comprising an air inlet, an air outlet, and an air passage between the air inlet and the air outlet. Example 76: The cartridge according to Example 75, wherein a portion of the susceptor assembly is located within the air passage. Example 77: The cartridge according to Example 75 or 76, wherein the heating region of the susceptor element is located within the airflow channel. Example 78: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 75 to 77, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate vaporized by the susceptor assembly may leak into the air channel. Example 79: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 75-78, wherein an air outlet is provided at the mouth end of the cartridge, through which the aerosol generated can be inhaled by a user. Example 80: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 79, wherein the susceptor assembly, or the heating region of the susceptor assembly, holds 2 to 10 milliliters of liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 81: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 80, wherein the susceptor assembly further comprises a wicking element. Example 82: The cartridge according to Example 81, wherein the wicking element is in fluid communication with the susceptor element. Example 83: The cartridge according to Example 81 or 82, wherein the wicking element is in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. Example 84: The cartridge according to Example 83, wherein the wicking element is arranged to deliver an aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir across the main surface of the susceptor element. Example 85: The cartridge according to Example 84, wherein the wicking element is arranged to deliver an aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir across the main surface of the susceptor element. Example 86: The cartridge according to any one of Examples 81 to 85, wherein the susceptor element is fixed to the wicking element. Example 87: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 81 to 85, wherein the susceptor element is integrated with the wicking element. Example 88: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 87, wherein the susceptor assembly comprises a plurality of susceptor elements. Example 89: The cartridge according to Example 88, wherein the susceptor assembly comprises wicking elements, and each susceptor element is arranged in fluid communication with the wicking elements. Example 90: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 89, wherein the susceptor assembly comprises a first susceptor element and a second susceptor element, the second susceptor element being spaced apart from the first susceptor element. Example 91: The cartridge according to Example 90, wherein the wicking element may be positioned in the space between the first susceptor element and the second susceptor element. Example 92: The cartridge according to Example 90 or 91, wherein the first susceptor, the second susceptor, and the wicking element are substantially planar, the first susceptor is positioned on a first side of the planar wicking element, and the second susceptor is positioned on a second side of the planar wicking element opposite to the first side. Example 93: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 90 to 92, wherein the wicking element comprises cotton or rayon. Example 94 Aerosol generation system, A cartridge described in any one of Examples 1 to 93, The aerosol generating device comprises an aerosol generating device configured to receive a cartridge, and the aerosol generating device is A device comprising at least one inductor coil arranged to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor element of the cartridge when the cartridge is received by the device, A system comprising: a power supply connected to at least one inductor coil and configured to supply alternating current to at least one inductor coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. Example 95 Aerosol generation system, A liquid reservoir for holding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, A susceptor assembly that communicates fluidly with a liquid reservoir, wherein the susceptor assembly has a susceptor element, and the susceptor element is A heating region comprising a first material, wherein the first material is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field, A susceptor assembly comprising a susceptor element having at least one mounting region containing a second material, wherein the second material is a non-magnetic material, and the weight ratio of the first material in the heating region is greater than the weight ratio of the first material in the at least one mounting region, A susceptor holder wherein at least one mounting area of ​​a susceptor element is in contact with the susceptor holder, At least one inductor coil arranged to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor element, A system comprising: a control circuit connected to at least one inductor coil and configured to supply alternating current to at least one inductor coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. Example 96 Aerosol generation device, A cartridge equipped with a liquid reservoir, The aerosol generation system according to Example 95, comprising an aerosol generation device configured to be coupled to a cartridge, the aerosol generation device comprising at least one inductor coil and a control circuit. Example 97: The aerosol generation system according to Example 96, wherein the cartridge comprises a susceptor assembly and a cartridge holder. Example 98: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 94 to 97, wherein the susceptor element is a planar susceptor element extending in a plane, and at least one inductor coil is configured to provide a magnetic field to a susceptor element perpendicular to the plane of the susceptor element. Example 99: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 94 to 97, wherein the susceptor element is a planar susceptor element extending in a plane, and at least one inductor coil is configured to provide a magnetic field to a susceptor element parallel to the plane of the susceptor element. Example 100: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 94 to 99, wherein the first inductor coil is substantially identical to the second inductor coil. Example 101: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 94-100, wherein at least one inductor coil surrounds a susceptor assembly. Example 102: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 94 to 99, wherein at least one inductor coil is a planar inductor coil. Example 103: The aerosol generation system according to Example 102, wherein at least one inductor coil is rectangular. Example 104: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 94 to 103, wherein at least one coil comprises a plurality of inductor coils. Example 105 The susceptor element is substantially planar and extends parallel to the first plane. At least one inductor coil comprises a first inductor coil and a second inductor coil, wherein the first inductor coil is located on a first side surface of the susceptor assembly and extends parallel to a first plane, and the second inductor coil is located on a second side surface of the susceptor assembly opposite to the first side surface and extends parallel to the first plane. An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 94 to 98, wherein the susceptor element is positioned between a first inductor coil and a second inductor coil. Example 106: The aerosol generation system according to Example 105, wherein the susceptor element is substantially equidistant from the first and second inductor coils. Example 107: The aerosol generating system according to Example 105 or 106, wherein the system is configured such that the first and second inductor coils generate magnetic fields that are equal and opposite to each other. Example 108: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 105 to 107, wherein the control circuit is configured to supply current to the inductor coils such that the first inductor coil provides an equivalent and opposite force to the second inductor coil on the susceptor assembly.

[0154] Here, we will further describe the embodiments with reference to the figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0155] [Figure 1a] A schematic diagram of a cartridge for an aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, where the cartridge is in a storage configuration. [Figure 1b] Figure 1a shows a schematic diagram of the aerosol generation system rotated 90 degrees around its central longitudinal axis. [Figure 1c] Figure 1a shows a schematic diagram of the cartridge, and the cartridge is in the configuration used. [Figure 2a] Figures 1a and 1b show side views of the cartridge susceptor assembly. [Figure 2b] Figure 2a shows a perspective view of the susceptor assembly. [Figure 2c] Figure 2a shows a plan view of the susceptor assembly. [Figure 3a] A schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, and the aerosol generation system comprises the cartridges shown in Figures 1a and 1b, which are received within an aerosol generation device. [Figure 3b] Figure 3a shows a schematic diagram of the aerosol generation system rotated 90 degrees around the central long axis of the aerosol generation system. [Figure 4a-e] This is a plan view of an exemplary susceptor element as described in this disclosure. [Figure 5a-i] This is a plan view of a susceptor element that further exemplifies the present disclosure. [Figure 6a] A schematic diagram of a cartridge for an aerosol generation system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, where the cartridge is in a storage configuration. [Figure 6b] Figure 6a shows a schematic diagram of the cartridge, and the cartridge is in the configuration used. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, and the aerosol generation system comprises the cartridges shown in Figures 6a and 6b, which are received within an aerosol generation device. [Figure 8a] This is a cross-sectional view of a planar susceptor element according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, where the cross-section is taken from a plane perpendicular to the plane of the susceptor element. [Figure 8b] Figure 8a is a plan view of the susceptor element.

[0156] Figures 1a, 1b, and 1c show schematic diagrams of a cartridge 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] The cartridge 10 includes a susceptor assembly 12 mounted on a susceptor holder 14. The susceptor assembly 12 is shown in more detail by FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c. The susceptor assembly 12 is planar and thin, having a thickness dimension that is substantially smaller than the length and width dimensions. The susceptor assembly 12 is formed in the shape of a cross and includes three layers, a first susceptor element 16, a second susceptor element 18, and a wicking element 20 disposed between the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18. Each of the first susceptor element 16, the second susceptor element 18, and the wicking element 20 generally forms the shape of a cross, and each element has the same length and width dimensions. The first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18 are substantially identical and include a sintered mesh formed from ferromagnetic stainless steel filaments and austenitic stainless steel filaments, as will be described in more detail below. The wicking element 20 includes a body of porous rayon filaments. The wicking element 20 is configured to deliver liquid from the exposed outer surface of the wicking element 20 to the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18.

[0158] Each of the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18 includes a pair of mounting regions 22 and a heating region 24. The heating region 24 is a substantially rectangular region located at the center of the susceptor elements 16, 18. The pair of mounting regions 22 are also substantially rectangular regions located at the periphery of the heating region 24 on the opposing sides of the heating region 24. In this embodiment, the mounting regions 22 are disposed at the same central position along the length of the heating region 24.

[0159] Each of the pair of mounting regions 22 has a smaller surface area than the heating region 24. The length l m of each of the mounting regions 22 is shorter than the length l h of the heating region 24, and the width w m of each of the mounting regions 22 is smaller than the width w h of the heating region 24. In this embodiment, the heating region 24 has a length l of about 6.50 millimetersh , and a width of approximately 3.50 mm w h Each of the mounting areas 22 has a length of approximately 2.50 mm. m , and a width of approximately 1.15 mm w m Therefore, each of the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18 has a total maximum length of approximately 6.50 mm and a total maximum width of approximately 5.80 mm.

[0160] The heating region 24 is configured to be heated by penetration with an alternating magnetic field in order to vaporize the aerosol-forming substrate. The pair of mounting regions 22 are configured to contact the susceptor holder 14 so that the susceptor holder 14 can support the susceptor assembly 12 in a predetermined position within the cartridge 10. The pair of mounting regions 22 are configured to minimize heat transfer from the susceptor assembly 12 to the susceptor holder 14.

[0161] Each of the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18 comprises a mesh having filaments extending in a first direction and filaments extending in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The heating region 24 includes filaments of AISI410 stainless steel, which is a ferritic stainless steel, extending in both the first and second directions. The pair of mounting regions 22 include filaments of AISI410 stainless steel extending in the first direction and filaments of AISI316 stainless steel, which is an austenitic stainless steel, extending in the second direction. Thus, the heating region 24 is made of a magnetic material, and the pair of mounting regions 22 are made partly of a magnetic material and partly of a non-magnetic material. The weight proportion of AISI410 stainless steel in the heating region 24 is greater than the weight proportion of AISI410 in each of the pair of mounting regions 22.

[0162] Providing the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18 with a mounting region 22 having a reduced cross-section compared to the heating region 24 and comprising at least a portion of a mounting region 22 made of a non-magnetic material helps reduce heating of the mounting region 22 when the susceptor elements are penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. Such a configuration also helps reduce heat transfer from the susceptor assembly 12 to the susceptor holder 14.

[0163] In other embodiments, it will be understood that the heating region 24 and the pair of mounting regions 22 may be formed from other combinations of magnetic and non-magnetic materials. For example, in some embodiments, the heating region 24 includes a filament of AISI410 stainless steel, which is a ferritic stainless steel, extending in a first direction, and a filament of AISI316 stainless steel, which is an austenitic stainless steel, extending in a second direction. In these embodiments, the pair of mounting regions 22 may include a filament of AISI316 stainless steel extending in both the first and second directions. Thus, in these embodiments, the heating region 24 is made partly of a magnetic material and partly of a non-magnetic material, and the pair of mounting regions 22 are made of a non-magnetic material.

[0164] The susceptor holder 14 comprises a tubular body formed from a moldable plastic material such as polypropylene. The tubular body of the susceptor holder 14 has side walls that define an internal passage 26 having an open end. A pair of openings 28 extend through the side walls on opposing sides of the tubular susceptor holder 14. The openings 28 are centrally located along the length of the susceptor holder 14.

[0165] The susceptor assembly 12 is disposed inside the internal passage 26 of the tubular susceptor holder 14 and extends in a plane parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor holder 14. The heating regions 24 of the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18 are entirely disposed within the internal passage 26 of the susceptor holder 14, and each of the mounting regions 22 extends through one of the openings 28 in the side wall of the susceptor holder 14. The openings 28 in the side wall of the susceptor holder 14 are sized to accommodate the susceptor assembly 12 by friction fitting so that the susceptor assembly is fixed inside the susceptor holder 14. Due to the friction fitting between the susceptor assembly 12 and the susceptor holder 14, the mounting region 22 is in direct contact with the susceptor holder 14 at the opening 28. The susceptor assembly 12 and the susceptor holder 14 are fixed together so that the susceptor assembly 12 moves when the susceptor holder 14 moves.

[0166] It will be understood that the susceptor assembly 12 and the susceptor holder 14 may be fixed together by other means. For example, in some embodiments, the susceptor assembly 12 is fixed to the susceptor holder 14 by adhesive in the mounting area 22 of the susceptor assembly 12 such that the mounting area 22 is indirectly in contact with the susceptor holder 14.

[0167] The susceptor holder 14 includes a base 30 that partially closes one end of the internal passage 26. The base 30 includes a plurality of air inlets 32 that allow air to be drawn into the internal passage 26 through the partially closed end.

[0168] The susceptor holder 14 further comprises a pair of puncture elements 34 extending from the outer surface of the side wall toward the open end of the susceptor holder 14 opposite the end partially closed by the base 30. The opening 28 in the side wall of the susceptor holder 14 is arranged between the puncture elements 34 around the side wall such that the puncture elements 34 are offset about 90 degrees from the opening 28 around the side wall of the tubular susceptor. Each of the puncture elements 34 is provided with a spike facing toward the open end of the susceptor holder 14.

[0169] The cartridge 10 further comprises an outer housing 36 formed from a moldable plastic material such as polypropylene. The outer housing 36 generally forms a hollow cylinder and defines an internal space that contains the susceptor assembly 12 and the susceptor holder 14.

[0170] The outer housing 36 forms the first part of the cartridge 10, and the susceptor assembly 12 and susceptor holder 14 form the second part of the cartridge 10. The second part of the cartridge is slidable relative to the first part of the cartridge between the storage configuration shown in Figures 1a and 1b and the usage configuration shown in Figure 1c.

[0171] The cartridge 10 has a mouth end and a connecting end opposite to the mouth end. The outer housing 36 defines a mouth end opening 38 at the mouth end of the cartridge 10. The connecting end is configured to connect the cartridge 10 to the aerosol generating device, as will be described in detail below. The susceptor assembly 12 and susceptor holder 14 are positioned toward the connecting end of the cartridge 10. The outer width of the outer housing 36 is greater at the mouth end of the cartridge 10 than at the connecting end, which is joined by the shoulder portion 37. This allows the connecting end of the cartridge to be received within the cavity of the aerosol generating device, and the shoulder portion 37 to position the cartridge correctly within the device. This also allows the mouth end of the cartridge 10 to remain outside the aerosol generating device and to conform to the external shape of the aerosol generating device.

[0172] A liquid reservoir 40 is defined within the cartridge to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42. The liquid reservoir 40 is divided into two parts, a first part 44 and a second part 46. The first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located toward the mouth end of the outer housing 36 and comprises an annular space defined by the outer housing 36. The annular space has an internal passage 48 extending between the mouth end opening 38 and the open end of the internal passage 26 of the susceptor holder 14. The second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located toward the connecting end of the outer housing 36 and comprises an annular space defined between the inner surface of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the susceptor holder 14. The base 20 of the tubular susceptor holder 14 is provided with an annular ribbed elastomer seal 50 extending between the outer surface of the tubular susceptor 14 and the inner surface of the outer housing 36. The seal 50 provides a liquid-tight seal between the susceptor holder 14 and the outer housing 36, ensuring that the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 securely holds the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42.

[0173] The first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 are fluidically isolated from each other by an aluminum foil seal 52, which is puncturable by a puncture element 34 of the susceptor holder, allowing the liquid aerosol forming substrate 42 to flow between the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir, as will be described in detail below.

[0174] The air passage is formed through the cartridge 10 by an internal passage 26 of the susceptor holder 14 and an internal passage 48 through the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40. The air passage extends from the air inlet 32 ​​at the base 30 of the susceptor holder 14, through the internal passage 26 of the susceptor holder 14, and through the internal passage 48 of the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 to the mouth end opening 38. The air passage allows air to be drawn through the cartridge 10 from the connection end to the mouth end.

[0175] In the storage configuration shown in Figures 1a and 1b, the base 30 of the susceptor holder 14 extends from the outer housing 36, and the puncture element 34 of the susceptor holder 14 is separated from the seal 52 in the direction of the connection end of the cartridge 10. In this configuration, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 is held in the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 and isolated from the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 by the seal 52. Thus, in the storage configuration, the susceptor assembly 12 is isolated from the aerosol-forming substrate 42. Advantageously, sealing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 within the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 can completely prevent the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 from leaking out of the cartridge 10 while the cartridge is in the storage configuration.

[0176] In the configuration used, as shown in Figure 1c, the susceptor holder 14 and the susceptor assembly 12 are pushed into the outer housing 36 toward the mouth end. As the susceptor holder 14 is pushed toward the mouth end of the outer housing 36, the seal 50 at the base 30 of the susceptor holder 14 slides on the inner surface of the outer housing 36, maintaining a liquid-tight seal between the inner surface of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the tubular susceptor holder body when the base of the susceptor holder 14 is received into the outer housing. As the puncture element 34 of the susceptor holder 14 moves toward the mouth end, the puncture element 34 contacts and punctures the seal 52, enabling fluid communication between the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 in the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is released into the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40, and the susceptor assembly 12 is exposed to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42. In the usage configuration, the mounting areas 22 of the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18, and the corresponding portions of the wicking element 20 extending into the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40, allow the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 to be drawn out from the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 to the heating areas 24 of the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18. As a result, in the usage configuration, the cartridge 10 is ready for use to generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-forming substrate 42.

[0177] Figures 3a and 3b show an aerosol generation system comprising the cartridge 10 shown in Figures 1a, 1b, and 1c in its usage configuration, received within the aerosol generation device 60. The aerosol generation system is portable and has a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette.

[0178] The aerosol generating device 60 comprises a substantially cylindrical housing 62 having a connecting end and a distal end opposite the connecting end. A cavity 64 for receiving the cartridge's connecting end is located at the connecting end of the device 60, and an air inlet 65 is provided through the outer housing 62 at the base of the cavity 64, allowing ambient air to be drawn into the cavity 64 at the base.

[0179] The device 60 further comprises an induction heating arrangement disposed within a housing 62. The induction heating arrangement includes a pair of inductor coils 66, 68, a control circuit 70, and a power supply 72. The power supply 72 comprises a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery that can be recharged via an electrical connector (not shown) at the distal end of the device. The control circuit 70 is connected to the power supply 72 and the first inductor coil 66 and the second inductor coil 68 so that the control circuit 70 controls the power supply to the inductor coils 66, 68. The control circuit 70 is configured to supply alternating current to the first inductor coil 66 and the second inductor coil 68.

[0180] The pair of inductor coils comprises a first inductor coil 66 and a second inductor coil 68. The first inductor coil 66 is disposed on a first side of the cavity 64, and the second inductor coil 68 is disposed on a second side of the cavity 64 opposite to the first inductor coil 66. Each of the inductor coils 66 and 68 is substantially identical and comprises a planar coil having a rectangular cross-section formed from wires with a rectangular cross-section. Each of the inductor coils 66 and 68 extends substantially in a plane, with the first inductor coil 66 extending in a first plane and the second inductor coil 68 extending in a second plane. The first and second planes are substantially parallel to each other and extend substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cavity 64 at the connection end of the device 60. When the cartridge 10 is received within the cavity 64, the susceptor assembly 12 is positioned between the first inductor coil 66 and the second inductor coil 68, and the plane of the susceptor assembly 12 is positioned substantially parallel to the first and second planes.

[0181] Each of the first inductor coil 66 and the second inductor coil 68 is configured such that when an alternating current is supplied to the inductor coils 66 and 68, the inductor coils generate an alternating magnetic field within the cavity 64. The alternating magnetic fields generated by each of the inductor coils 66 and 68 are directed substantially perpendicular to the plane of the susceptor assembly 12 and the susceptor elements 16 and 18.

[0182] The induction heating arrangement is also configured such that the second inductor coil 68 generates an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64 that is equivalent to and opposite to the alternating magnetic field generated in the cavity 64 by the first inductor coil 66. In this embodiment, the first inductor coil 66 and the second inductor coil 68 are connected together in series and are substantially identical but wound in opposite directions. In this configuration, the first inductor coil 66 and the second inductor coil 68 generate alternating magnetic fields in the cavity 64 that are substantially equal in magnitude but substantially opposite in direction.

[0183] During operation, when the user inhales smoke through the mouth-side opening 38 of the cartridge 10, ambient air is drawn into the base of the cavity 64 through the air inlet 65, as indicated by the arrow in Figure 3b, and into the cartridge 10 through the air inlet 32 ​​of the base 30 of the cartridge 10. The ambient air flows through the air passage and over the susceptor assembly 12, through the cartridge 10 from the base 30 to the mouth-side opening 38.

[0184] The control circuit 70 controls the supply of power from the power supply 72 to the first inductor coil 66 and the second inductor coil 68 when the system is started. The control circuit 72 may include an airflow sensor (not shown), and the control circuit 72 may supply power to the inductor coils 66 and 68 when the airflow sensor detects that the user has inhaled from the cartridge 10. This type of control arrangement is well established in aerosol generating systems such as inhalers and e-cigarettes.

[0185] When the system is activated, alternating currents are established in the inductor coils 66 and 68, respectively, which generate an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64 that penetrates the susceptor assembly 12, heating the heating regions 24 of the first susceptor element 16 and the second susceptor element 18. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the second portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is drawn into the susceptor assembly 12 via the wicking element 20 to the heating regions 24 of the first and second susceptor elements 16 and 18. As the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is heated in the heating regions 24 of the susceptor elements 16 and 18, volatile compounds from the heated aerosol-forming substrate are released into the air passage of the cartridge 10, where they cool and form an aerosol. The aerosol is carried by the air drawn through the air passage of the cartridge 10 and is drawn out of the cartridge 10 at the mouth-side opening 38 for inhalation by the user.

[0186] Figures 4a to 4e show various other shapes of susceptor elements according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0187] Figure 4a shows a susceptor element having two rectangular mounting regions 22 located on one side of a rectangular heating region 24. Each mounting region 22 is substantially identical and has a width and length substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The mounting regions 22 are located at opposite ends of the heating region 24 such that the susceptor element generally forms the shape of the letter "C".

[0188] Figure 4b shows a susceptor element having two rectangular mounting regions 22 located on opposite sides of a rectangular heating region 24. Each mounting region 22 is substantially identical and has a width and length substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The mounting regions 22 are located at the same ends of the heating region 24 such that the susceptor element generally forms the shape of the letter "T".

[0189] Figure 4c shows a susceptor element having two rectangular mounting regions 22 located on opposing sides of a rectangular heating region 24. Each mounting region 22 is substantially identical and has a width and length substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The mounting regions 22 are located at different positions along the length of the heating region 24, away from the edges of the heating region 24.

[0190] Figure 4d shows a susceptor element having two rectangular mounting regions 22 located on opposing sides of a rectangular heating region 24. Each mounting region 22 is substantially identical and has a width and length substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The mounting regions 22 are located at opposing ends of the heating region 24 such that the susceptor element generally forms the shape of the letters "S" or "Z".

[0191] Figure 4e shows a susceptor element having a rectangular mounting area 22 located on one side of a rectangular heating area 24. The mounting area 22 has a width and length substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating area 24. The mounting area 22 is centrally located along the length of the heating area 24.

[0192] Figures 5a to 5i show further alternative shapes of the susceptor element according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0193] Figures 5a to 5c show susceptor elements having substantially rectangular heating regions 24 and mounting regions 22, where each mounting region 22 of each susceptor element is substantially identical and has a width and length substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24.

[0194] Figure 5a shows a susceptor element having two pairs of mounting regions 22 positioned at opposing ends of a heating region 24. Each pair of mounting regions comprises one mounting region 22 located on one side of the heating region 24 and one mounting region 22 located on the opposite side of the heating region 24, such that the susceptor element generally forms the shape of the letter "H".

[0195] Figure 5b shows a susceptor element having a pair of mounting regions 22 arranged on opposing sides of the heating region 24. The mounting regions 22 are located at the same central position along the length of the heating region 24 such that the susceptor element generally forms a cross shape.

[0196] Figure 5c shows a susceptor element having two pairs of mounting regions 22 positioned at different locations along the length of the heating region 24, away from the ends of the heating region 24 and away from the other pair of mounting regions 22. Each pair of mounting regions 22 comprises one mounting region 22 located on one side of the heating region 24 and one mounting region 22 located on the opposite side of the heating region 24, at the same location along the length of the heating region 24.

[0197] Figures 5d-5f show susceptor elements substantially similar to those shown in Figures 5a-5c, wherein one or more edges of the mounting area 22 or the heating area 24 are angled such that one or more of the mounting area 22 and heating area 24 are not rectangular.

[0198] Figure 5d shows a susceptor element substantially similar to the susceptor element in Figure 5a, wherein the inner edge of the mounting region 22 converges toward a central position along the length of the heating region 24 as the mounting region 22 extends away from the heating region 24.

[0199] Figure 5e shows a susceptor element substantially similar to that of Figure 5b, wherein the edge of the mounting region 22 widens in the direction of the length of the heating region 24 as the mounting region 22 extends away from the heating region 24.

[0200] Figure 5f shows a susceptor element substantially similar to that of Figure 5c, wherein the edge of the mounting region 22 widens in the direction of the length of the heating region 24 as the mounting region 22 extends away from the heating region 24.

[0201] Figures 5g to 5i show susceptor elements substantially similar to those shown in Figures 5a to 5c, wherein one or more edges of the mounting region 22 or the heating region 24 are curved such that one or more of the mounting region 22 and the heating region 24 are not rectangular.

[0202] Figure 5g shows a susceptor element substantially similar to the susceptor element in Figure 5a, wherein the inner edge of the attachment region 22 is curved inward to form a concave inner edge of the attachment region 22.

[0203] Figure 5h shows a susceptor element substantially similar to the susceptor element in Figure 5b, wherein the edge of the mounting area 22 is curved outward to form a convex mounting area 22.

[0204] Figure 5i shows a susceptor element substantially similar to the susceptor element in Figure 5c, wherein the edge of the mounting area 22 is curved outward to form a convex mounting area 22.

[0205] Figures 6a and 6b show schematic diagrams of a cartridge 10 for an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The cartridge 10 shown in Figure 6 is substantially similar to the cartridge 10 shown in Figures 1a-1c, and similar reference numerals are used to indicate similar features.

[0206] The cartridge 10 comprises two susceptor assemblies 12 mounted on a susceptor holder 14. Each susceptor assembly 12 is flat, thin, and molded into the shape of the letter "C". Each susceptor assembly 12 has the same three-element configuration as the susceptor assembly 12 in Figures 1a-1c, and includes a wicking element positioned between a first susceptor element and a second susceptor element (not shown). Each susceptor element, as shown in Figure 4a, has a rectangular heating region and two mounting regions positioned at opposite ends of the heating region and on one side of the heating region.

[0207] The susceptor holder 14 comprises a tubular body with side walls defining an internal passage 26 having an open end. Two pairs of openings 28 extend through the side walls, and each pair of openings 28 has one opening located on one side of the susceptor holder 14 and another opening located on the opposite side of the susceptor holder 14.

[0208] In this embodiment, each of the two susceptor assemblies 12 is positioned substantially outside the internal passage 26 of the tubular susceptor holder 14 and extends in a plane parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor holder 14. The heating region of each susceptor element is positioned entirely outside the internal passage 26, and each mounting region extends through one of the openings 28 in the side wall of the susceptor holder.

[0209] The susceptor holder includes a base 32 that partially closes one end of the internal passage 26. In this embodiment, the base 32 forms a liquid-tight seal with the internal passage 26 so that the internal passage is configured to hold liquid. The base 30 includes a plurality of air inlets 32, which are located outside the internal passage 26.

[0210] The susceptor holder 14 further comprises a pair of puncture elements 34 extending from the inner surface of the side wall into the internal passage 26 toward the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor holder 14.

[0211] The cartridge 10 further comprises an outer housing 36 that generally forms a hollow cylinder and defines an internal space in which the susceptor assembly 12 and the susceptor holder 14 are contained. The outer housing 36 forms a first part of the cartridge 10, and the susceptor assembly 12 and the susceptor holder 14 form a second part of the cartridge 10. The second part of the cartridge is slidable relative to the first part of the cartridge between a storage configuration shown in Figure 6a and a usage configuration shown in Figure 6b.

[0212] The cartridge 10 has a mouth end defining a mouth end opening 38 and a connection end configured for connection of the cartridge 10 to an aerosol generating device. The susceptor assembly 12 and susceptor holder 14 are positioned toward the connection end of the cartridge 10. The outer width of the outer housing 36 is greater at the mouth end of the cartridge 10 than at the connection end, which is joined by the shoulder portion 37.

[0213] The liquid reservoir 40 is defined within the cartridge to hold the liquid aerosol forming substrate 42. The liquid reservoir 40 is divided into two parts, a first part 44 and a second part 46. The first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located toward the mouth end of the outer housing 36 and comprises a cylindrical space defined by the inner wall of the outer housing 36. The second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located toward the connecting end of the outer housing 36 and comprises a cylindrical space defined by the internal passage 26 of the susceptor holder 14.

[0214] The first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 are fluidically isolated from each other by an aluminum foil seal 52, the aluminum foil seal 52 is puncturable by a puncture element 34 of the susceptor holder, allowing the liquid aerosol forming substrate 42 to flow between the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir.

[0215] A first passage 48 is defined between the outer surface of the inner wall defining a first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 and the inner surface of the outer wall of the outer housing 36. The first passage 48 extends between the mouth end opening 38 and the susceptor holder 14. A second passage 49 is defined between the inner surface of the outer wall of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the susceptor holder 14. The base 20 of the tubular susceptor holder 14 is provided with an annular ribbed elastomer seal 50 that extends between the outer surface of the tubular susceptor 14 and the inner surface of the outer wall of the outer housing 36. The seal 50 provides an airtight seal between the susceptor holder 14 and the outer housing 36.

[0216] The air passage is formed through the cartridge 10 by a first passage 48 and a second passage 49. The air passage extends from the air inlet 32 ​​at the base 30 of the susceptor holder 14, through the second passage 49, and through the first passage 48 to the mouth end opening 38. The air passage allows air to be drawn through the cartridge 10 from the connection end to the mouth end.

[0217] In the storage configuration, as shown in Figure 6a, the base 30 of the susceptor holder 14 extends from the outer housing 36, and the puncture element 34 of the susceptor holder 14 is separated from the seal 52 in the direction of the connection end of the cartridge 10. In this configuration, the liquid aerosol forming substrate 42 is held in the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 and isolated from the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 by the seal 52.

[0218] In the use configuration, as shown in FIG. 6b, the susceptor holder 14 and the susceptor assembly 12 are pushed into the outer housing 36 towards the mouth side end. When the susceptor holder 14 is pushed out towards the mouth side end of the outer housing 36, the seal 50 at the base 30 of the susceptor holder 14 slides on the inner surface of the outer housing 36 and maintains an airtight seal between the inner surface of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the tubular susceptor holder body when the base of the susceptor holder 14 is received within the outer housing. As the piercing element 34 of the susceptor holder 14 moves towards the mouth side end, the piercing element 34 contacts and pierces the seal 52, enabling fluid communication between the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 and the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 within the first portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is released into the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 and the susceptor assembly 12 is exposed to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42. In the use configuration, the mounting region 22 of the susceptor element and the corresponding portion of the wicking element extending within the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 can draw the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 42 from the second portion 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 to the heating region 24 of the susceptor element.

[0219] FIG. 7 shows an aerosol generation system comprising the cartridge 10 of FIGS. 6a and 6b in the use configuration received within an aerosol generation device 60. The aerosol generation device 60 is substantially similar to the aerosol generation device 60 shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b and like reference numerals are used to designate like features.

[0220] The aerosol generation device 60 comprises a generally cylindrical housing 62 having a proximal end at the opposite side of the connection end. A cavity 64 for receiving the connection end of the cartridge is located at the connection end of the device 60 and an air inlet 65 is provided through the outer housing at the base of the cavity to enable ambient air to be drawn into the cavity 64 at the base.

[0221] Device 60 further includes an induction heating arrangement disposed within housing 62. The induction heating arrangement includes a single inductor coil 66, a control circuit 70, and a power source 72. The power source 72 includes a rechargeable nickel cadmium battery that is rechargeable via an electrical connector (not shown) at the distal end of the device. The control circuit 70 is connected to the power source 72 and the inductor coil 66 such that the control circuit 70 controls the supply of power to the inductor coil 66. The control circuit 70 is configured to supply an alternating current to the inductor coil 66.

[0222] The inductor coil 66 includes a helical coil that surrounds cavity 64. When cartridge 10 is received within cavity 64, susceptor assembly 12 is also surrounded by the inductor coil 66.

[0223] The inductor coil 66 is configured to generate an alternating magnetic field within cavity 64 when an alternating current is supplied to the inductor coil 66. The alternating magnetic field generated by the inductor coil 66 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the susceptor assembly 12 and the plane of the susceptor elements.

[0224] During operation, when the user inhales at the mouth-side end opening 38 of cartridge 10, ambient air is drawn into the base of cavity 64 through air inlet 65, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 7, and into cartridge 10 through air inlet 32 in the base 30 of cartridge 10. The ambient air flows through the air passage and over the susceptor assembly 12 through cartridge 10 from base 30 to mouth-side end opening 38.

[0225] The control circuit 70 controls the supply of power from the power source 72 to the inductor coil 66 when the system is activated. The control circuit 72 may include an airflow sensor (not shown), and the control circuit 72 may supply power to the inductor coil 66 when an airflow sensed by the airflow sensor indicates that the user is inhaling on cartridge 10.

[0226] When the system is activated, an alternating current is established in the inductor coil 66, which generates an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64 that penetrates the susceptor assembly 12, heating the heating region of the susceptor element. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the second portion 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is drawn through the wicking element into the susceptor assembly 12, into the heating region of the susceptor element. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the heating region of the susceptor element is heated, and volatile compounds from the heated aerosol-forming substrate are released into the air passage of the cartridge 10, where they cool and form an aerosol. The aerosol is carried by the air drawn through the air passage of the cartridge 10 and is drawn out of the cartridge 10 at the mouth-side opening 38 for inhalation by the user.

[0227] Figures 8a and 8b show susceptor elements according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0228] The susceptor element 100 comprises a mesh of woven filaments. Some of the woven filaments 102 extend in the warp direction, and some of the woven filaments 104 extend in the weft direction substantially perpendicular to the warp direction.

[0229] The latitudinal filaments 104 contain a magnetic material such as AISI409 stainless steel. The longitudinal filaments 102 contain a non-magnetic material such as AISI316 stainless steel. The mesh is sintered such that an electrical coupling is generated at the contact points between the longitudinal filaments 102 and the latitudinal filaments 104.

[0230] The susceptor element 100 is a planar element that extends substantially in a plane. The warp-extending filaments 102 are woven with the weft-extending filaments 104 such that the warp-extending filaments 102 extend further outward from the plane of the susceptor element 100 than the weft-extending filaments 104. In other words, the warp-extending filaments 102 define the maximum thickness of the susceptor element 100.

[0231] Since the filament 102 extending in the longitudinal direction defines the maximum thickness of the susceptor element 100, the susceptor holder 14 that contacts the susceptor element 100 contacts only the filament 102 extending in the longitudinal direction, as shown in Figure 8a.

[0232] Since the longitudinally extending filament 102 is not made of a magnetic material, it is not directly heated by eddy current induction or hysteresis loss when the susceptor element 100 is exposed to an alternating magnetic field. As a result, the longitudinally extending filament 102 in contact with the susceptor holder 14 transfers less heat to the susceptor holder 14 than if the filament were made of a magnetic material.

[0233] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term “approximately.” Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therebetween, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± {5%}. In this context, the number A may be considered to include a number that falls within the general standard error to the measurement of the characteristic that the number A modifies. In some cases as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentage listed above, provided that the amount of deviation does not substantially affect the fundamental and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therebetween, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, wherein the cartridge is A liquid reservoir for holding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, A susceptor assembly that is in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir, wherein the susceptor assembly has a susceptor element, and the susceptor element is A heating region comprising a first material, wherein the first material is a magnetic material that can be heated by penetration by an alternating magnetic field, A susceptor assembly comprising a susceptor element having a mounting region comprising at least one mounting region including the first material and the second material, wherein the second material is a non-magnetic material, A susceptor holder comprising a susceptor holder wherein at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is in contact with the susceptor holder, A cartridge in which the weight ratio of the first material in the heating region is greater than the weight ratio of the first material in the at least one mounting region.

2. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element is located around the susceptor element.

3. The cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the susceptor holder comprises at least one of an electrically insulating material and a heat insulating material.

4. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the susceptor holder is tubular and defines an internal passage, the susceptor element extends into the internal passage of the susceptor holder, the internal passage of the susceptor holder extends substantially along the longitudinal axis, and the susceptor element is substantially planar and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.

5. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second material is at least one of an electrical insulating material and a thermal insulating material.

6. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second material is at least one of a hydrophilic material and a lipophilic material.

7. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the susceptor element comprises an array of filaments forming a mesh.

8. The cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the mesh is woven.

9. The cartridge according to claim 8, wherein the heating region includes a filament of the first material in at least one of the latitudinal and longitudinal directions.

10. The cartridge according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the at least one mounting area includes a filament of the second material in at least one of the latitudinal and longitudinal directions.

11. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the susceptor element is substantially planar.

12. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the susceptor holder is tubular and defines an internal passage, and the susceptor element extends into the internal passage of the susceptor holder.

13. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the susceptor holder contacts the second material in at least one mounting area of ​​the susceptor element.

14. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the at least one mounting area comprises a plurality of mounting areas.

15. Aerosol generation system, A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 14, The aerosol generating device comprises an aerosol generating device configured to receive the cartridge, and the aerosol generating device is When the cartridge is received by the device, at least one inductor coil is provided to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor element of the cartridge, A system comprising: a control circuit connected to at least one inductor coil and configured to supply an alternating current to the inductor coil to generate the alternating magnetic field.

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