Non-combustion heating apparatus and method

Abstract

To provide a device wherein an induction heating source is provided for use to heat a consumable tobacco component.SOLUTION: The present invention provides a device for converting a consumable into an aerosol with high heat without burning the consumable by packaging the consumable containing an internal susceptor inside an encasement having a plurality of holes with an induction heating element wrapped around the consumable-containing package to heat the susceptor using a magnetic field generated by the induction heating element. Combustion of the consumable-containing package is minimized by limiting air inside the consumable-containing package by coating the encasement material that melts at high temperatures. The coating may also include a flavoring. The efficiency of the device may be enhanced by a self-resonating oscillator, a movable coil, a multipole susceptor, a sensor, heat dissipation, airflow control, an alignment mechanism, and the like.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to devices used as alternatives to conventional smoking products such as electronic cigarettes and vapor inhalation systems, and more particularly to non-combustion heating devices.

Background Art

[0002] Non-combustion heating (HNB) devices heat tobacco at a temperature lower than the temperature at which combustion creates an inhalable aerosol containing nicotine and other tobacco components, and make it available to the device user. Unlike conventional tobacco, the aim is not to burn the tobacco, but rather to heat the tobacco to a sufficient extent to release nicotine and other components through the generation of an aerosol. Igniting and burning tobacco produces undesirable toxins, which can be avoided by using an HNB device. However, there is a delicate balance between supplying sufficient heat to effectively release tobacco components in aerosol form and not burning or igniting the tobacco. Current HNB devices have not yet found that balance, and either heat the tobacco to a temperature that does not produce a sufficient amount of aerosol or overheat the tobacco, producing an unpleasant or "burnt" odor aroma profile. In addition, with current methodologies, the internal components of conventional HNB devices are soiled by the by-products of burning tobacco and the by-products of accidental combustion.

[0003] For the reasons described above, there is a need for an aerosol generating device that allows the user to control the strength of the device, which affects the temperature of the tobacco heated via a guiding method for reducing the risk of combustion while enhancing the efficiency and aroma profile of the generated aerosol - or even to a temperature sufficient for ignition.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a system and method for rapidly and incrementally heating stoichiometric tobacco components by induction, thereby generating an aerosol that contains some of the components but is free from by-products most frequently associated with combustion, such as smoke, ash, tar, and other potentially harmful chemicals. The invention includes positioning and heating that progresses incrementally along the stoichiometric tobacco components by using an induction heating element that provides an alternating electromagnetic field around the components.

[0005] The object of the present invention is an apparatus that provides an induction heating source for use in heating consuming tobacco components.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is a consuming tobacco component comprising several sealed, individual, enclosed, and coated containers and an induction heating source, which include the preparation of consuming tobacco. The containers may be aluminum shells having pre-set openings. The containers may be coated with a gel that seals the openings until the induction heating process melts the gel and clears the openings. In some embodiments, the gel may contain flavoring agents that add or enhance the flavor of the tobacco aerosol.

[0007] In some embodiments, multiple containers are stacked inside a paper tube with space between them, and the bottom of each container and the channel on either side are formed by excess aluminum packaging so that an aerosol can be generated. When the induction heating source is activated, a predetermined opening is cleared, the flavor combines with the aerosol, and travels through the tube to become available to the device user.

[0008] Using these methods and apparatuses, the device can reduce the mass required for heating, heat and cool rapidly, and conserve power, allowing for multiple uses between charges. This contrasts with known, conventional, and commercially available non-combustion heating devices.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is a consumable component containing tobacco, comprising several sealed, individual, sealed, and coated containers and an induction heating source. The containers are covered with a gel that seals the opening until the induction heating process melts the gel and clears the opening. In some embodiments, a flavoring agent may be included to add or enhance the flavor of the consumable tobacco component.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to create a consumable-containing package that is easy to replace and minimizes deposits inside the case during use, thereby reducing the effort required to clean the case.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to move the heating element relative to the susceptor or consumable in order to heat the consumable segment independently of other segments.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to maximize the efficiency of energy use within a device for generating aerosols.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to control the heat of the heating element in order to maximize the lifespan of the device.

[0014] Another purpose is to allow alteration of the airflow through the device in order to change the flavor or formulation of consumables. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] This shows an internal side view of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] A perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention is shown, with some parts removed to show the internal structure of the embodiment. [Figure 2B] Figure 2A shows a perspective view of the embodiment shown, with parts cut out and / or removed to reveal internal components. [Figure 2C]Shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, taken along line 2C-2C. [Figure 2D] Shows an exploded assembly view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A. [Figure 2E] Shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, in which a part is cut away and / or removed to reveal internal components. [Figure 3A] Shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] Shows a partially exploded assembly view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] Shows a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, in which a part is cut away and / or removed to reveal internal components. [Figure 3D] Shows an enlarged perspective view of the consumable-containing unit shown in FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] Shows an exploded assembly view of an embodiment of the consumable-containing unit. [Figure 4B] Shows an exploded assembly view of an embodiment of the consumable-containing unit. [Figure 5A] Shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] Shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, taken along line 5B-5B. [Figure 5C] Shows a perspective view of the consumable-containing package from the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A. [Figure 6A] Shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] Shows an exploded assembly view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A] Shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] Shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7C] Shows another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7D] Shows an exploded assembly view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7C. [Figure 8A] Shows a side view of an embodiment with a heating element. [Figure 8B] Shows a front view of the heating element shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 9A] Shows a side view of an embodiment of the aerosol generator. [Figure 9B] Shows a plan view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 8A. [Figure 9C] Shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment regarding the controller of the present invention and its connection to other components. [Figure 10A] Shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment regarding the controller of the present invention and its connection to other components. <00,00107>Shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment regarding the controller of the present invention and its connection to other components. [Figure 11] Shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the movable heating element. [Figure 12A] Shows an exploded view, a cross-sectional view, and a perspective view regarding an embodiment of the present invention using magnets for alignment. [Figure 12B] Shows an exploded view, a cross-sectional view, and a perspective view regarding an embodiment of the present invention using magnets for alignment. [Figure 12C] Shows an exploded view, a cross-sectional view, and a perspective view regarding an embodiment of the present invention using magnets for alignment. <0,000116> [Figure 12D] Shows an exploded view, a cross-sectional view, and a perspective view regarding an embodiment of the present invention using magnets for alignment. [Figure 12E] Shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a certain alignment mechanism. [Figure 13A] Shows a perspective view of the multi-pole susceptor. [Figure 13B] Shows a perspective view of the multi-pole susceptor. [Figure 13C] Shows cross-sectional views of the embodiments in FIGS. 13A and 13B, showing, respectively, the multi-pole susceptor cut along the vertical axis and removed, and the multi-pole susceptor inserted into the consumable-containing package. [Figure 13D]Figures 13A and 13B show side views of the embodiments, respectively, showing a multi-pole susceptor that has been cut along the vertical axis and removed, and a multi-pole susceptor that has been inserted into a consumables-containing package. [Figure 14A] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package, which includes a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 14B] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package, which includes a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 14C] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package, which includes a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 15A] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package having another three-pole susceptor with a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 15B] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package having another three-pole susceptor with a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 15C] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package having another three-pole susceptor with a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 16A] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package having a four-pole susceptor equipped with a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 16B] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package having a four-pole susceptor equipped with a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 16C] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package having a 4-pole susceptor equipped with a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 16D] This shows an end view of one embodiment of a consumable-containing package having a four-pole susceptor equipped with a heating element that rotates around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 17A] This figure shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a mechanism for rotating a heating element along an eccentric path around a consumables-containing package. [Figure 17B] This figure shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a mechanism for rotating a heating element along an eccentric path around a consumables-containing package. [Figure 18A] Figures 17A and 17B show end views of an embodiment relating to a mechanism for rotating a heating element along an eccentric path around a consumable-containing package. [Figure 18B] Figures 17A and 17B show end views of an embodiment relating to a mechanism for rotating a heating element along an eccentric path around a consumable-containing package. [Figure 19] A perspective view of one embodiment of a mechanism for rotating a heating element along an eccentric path and translating the heating element along a consumable-containing package is shown. [Figure 20] A perspective view of one embodiment of a mechanism for moving a heating element relative to a consumable-containing package is shown. [Figure 21] A schematic diagram of one embodiment relating to the controller of the present invention and its connection to other components is shown. [Figure 22] An embodiment is shown in which a portion of the heat sink has been removed to show the heating element, and which has a heat sink attached to the heating element. [Figure 23] This shows a cross-sectional view of an airflow controller attached to a consumables package. [Figure 24A] An exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 24B] Figure 24A shows an end view of the embodiment shown. [Figure 24C] Figure 24B shows a cross-sectional view obtained through the line 24C-24C. [Figure 25A] To illustrate the internal structure of a consumable-containing package with a hollow pole susceptor, a partial cutaway of the consumable-containing package is shown from a viewpoint with the susceptor removed. [Figure 25B]To illustrate the internal structure of a consumable-containing package with a hollow pole susceptor, a partial cutaway of the consumable-containing package is shown from a viewpoint with the susceptor removed. [Figure 25C] Figures 25A-B show partial cutaways of the respective embodiments, each equipped with a hollow electrode susceptor embedded in a consumable-containing package. [Figure 25D] Figures 25A-B show partial cutaways of the respective embodiments, each equipped with a hollow electrode susceptor embedded in a consumable-containing package. [Figure 25E] Figures 25A and 25D show cross-sectional views of the embodiment shown, cut along the vertical axis to illustrate the airflow during use. [Figure 26A] A perspective view of another embodiment relating to the consumables-containing package before susceptor insertion is shown. [Figure 26B] A partial cutaway diagram of the embodiment shown in Figure 26A is provided to illustrate the relationships between the internal components before the insertion of the susceptor. [Figure 26C] A partial cutaway diagram of the embodiment shown in Figure 26A is provided to illustrate the relationships between the internal components before the insertion of the susceptor. [Figure 26D] Figures 26A and 26C show cross-sectional views of an embodiment of a consumable-containing package, cut along the vertical axis. [Figure 26E] Figure 26A shows a partial cutaway view of the embodiment after the insertion of the susceptor. [Figure 26F] A partial cutaway diagram, shown in Figure 26E, is illustrated along with the heating element wrapped around the consumable-containing package. [Figure 26G] Figure 26F shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the consumables-containing package, cut along the vertical axis. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] The detailed description below, in relation to the accompanying drawings, is intended to describe currently preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only form in which the invention may be constructed or utilized. The description describes the function and sequence of steps for constructing and operating the invention in relation to the illustrated embodiments. However, it should be understood that the same or equivalent functions and sequence may be achieved by different embodiments which are intended to be further encompassed within the intent and scope of the invention.

[0017] The present invention relates to a device for generating an aerosol from a consumable-containing product, for inhaling the consumable-containing product in a manner that minimizes combustion using relatively high heat. For the purposes of this application, the term “consumable” should be interpreted broadly to include any kind of drug, medicine, chemical compound, activator, ingredient, etc., regardless of whether the consumable is used to treat a disease or illness, for nutritional purposes, for nutritional purposes, for nutritional supplements, or for recreational purposes. Just as examples, consumables may include prescription drugs, nutritional supplements, over-the-counter drugs, tobacco, cannabis, etc.

[0018] Referring to Figure 1, the apparatus (100) includes a consumable-containing package (102) and an aerosol generator (200). The apparatus (100) generates an aerosol through a non-combustion heating process, in which the consumable-containing unit (104) is heated to a temperature that does not burn the consumable-containing unit (104), but releases the consumable from the consumable-containing unit in the form of an inhalable aerosol. Thus, the consumable-containing unit (104) is any product that contains a consumable that can be released in the form of an aerosol when heated to a suitable temperature. This application discusses the application of the present invention to tobacco products and provides specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to use with tobacco products.

[0019] Consumables-containing packaging

[0020] Referring to Figure 2A-6B, the consumable-containing package (102) is a component that is heated to release the consumable in aerosol form. The consumable-containing package (102) includes a consumable-containing unit (104), a metal (also called a susceptor) (106) for heating the consumable-containing unit (104) through an induction heating system, and a container (108) that houses the consumable-containing unit (104) and the susceptor (106). How well the consumable-containing package (102) is heated depends on the consistency of the product. Product consistency takes into account various factors such as the position, shape, orientation, and other characteristics of the consumable-containing unit (104). Other characteristics of the consumable-containing unit (104) may include the amount of oxygen contained within the unit. The goal is to maximize product consistency by ensuring consistency in each of these factors during the manufacturing process.

[0021] If the shape of the consumable-containing unit (104) is such that it is in direct physical contact with the susceptor (106) with the maximum contact area between them, it can be inferred that the thermal energy induced within the susceptor (106) will be largely transferred to the consumable-containing unit (104). Therefore, the shape and arrangement of the consumable-containing unit (104) relative to the susceptor (106) are important factors. In some embodiments, the consumable-containing unit (104) is generally cylindrical. Therefore, the consumable-containing unit (104) may have an annular or elliptical cross-section.

[0022] Furthermore, another objective of the design of the consumable-containing unit (104) is to minimize the amount of air to which the consumable-containing unit (104) is exposed. This eliminates or reduces the risk of oxidation or combustion during storage or heating processes. As a result, in certain settings, it is possible to heat the consumable-containing unit (104) to a temperature that would cause combustion when used with conventional equipment that allows for greater air exposure.

[0023] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the consumable-containing unit (104) is made from the consumable in powder form, packed into pellets or rods. Compression of the consumable reduces the oxygen trapped inside the consumable-containing unit (104). In some embodiments, the consumable-containing unit (104) may further include additives such as humectants, fragrances, oxygen-replacing fillers, or vapor-generating substances. Additives may further assist in the absorption and transfer of thermal energy, along with the removal of oxygen from the consumable-containing unit (104). In one alternative embodiment, the consumable may be mixed with a substance that does not interfere with the function of the device but replaces the air in the gaps around the consumable and / or surrounds the consumable to isolate it from the air. In yet another alternative embodiment, the consumable may be formed into small pellets or other forms that can be encapsulated to further reduce the air available to it.

[0024] As shown in Figures 2A-2D, in a preferred embodiment, the consumable-containing unit (104) may be a single elongated unit defining a longitudinal axis L. For example, the consumable-containing unit (104) may be an elongated cylinder or tube having an annular or elliptical cross-section. Thus, the consumable-containing unit (104) may be defined by two opposing ends (105, 107) and a side wall (109) extending between them from the first end (105) to the second end (107), defining the length of the consumable-containing unit (104).

[0025] The susceptor (106) is similarly elongated and preferably can be embedded in the consumable-containing unit (104) along the longitudinal axis L, substantially extending to the length and width (i.e., diameter) of the consumable-containing unit (104). In the consumable-containing unit (104) having an elliptical cross-section, the diameter refers to the outer diameter defining the major axis of the ellipse.

[0026] The susceptor (106) may be extruded. Once extruded, the consumable-containing unit (104) may be compressed around the susceptor (106) along the length of the susceptor (106). Alternatively, the susceptor (106) may be press-formed from a flat metal stock or any other suitable manufacturing method before attaching the consumable-containing unit (104) around the susceptor (106). In some embodiments, the susceptor (106) may be made from steel wool, as shown in Figure 2E. For example, the susceptor (106) may consist of fine filaments of steel wool bundled in a pad-like shape. Thus, the steel wool pad contains numerous fine edges. In some embodiments, the steel wool pad may be coated with or immersed in humectants, fragrances, vapor-generating substances, substances that slow the oxidation (rusting) of the steel wool, and / or fillers that remove air between the steel wool filaments. As shown in Figure 2E, cut-outs may be provided along the steel wool pads to divide the consumable-containing unit (104) into individual heating segments as described below. Alternatively, the individual steel wool pads may be separated and / or spaced apart by the consumables, so that each pad can be heated individually during use.

[0027] The advantages of steel wool include, but are not limited to, its ease of disposal from an environmental standpoint, as it begins to oxidize quickly when heated, thereby becoming brittle without sharp edges and degrading easily. It is composed of iron and carbon and is relatively non-toxic.

[0028] The susceptor (106) can be made of any metallic material that generates heat when exposed to a fluctuating magnetic field, such as in induction heating. Preferably, the metal includes iron or steel. To maximize the efficient heating of the consumable-containing unit (104), the susceptor (106) matches the shape of the largest cross-sectional area of ​​the consumable-containing unit (104) so ​​as to maximize the surface area in contact between the consumable-containing unit (104) and the susceptor (106), although other configurations may also be used. In embodiments where the consumable-containing unit (104) is an elongated cylinder, the largest cross-sectional area would be defined by dividing the elongated cylinder along a longitudinal axis L along the outer diameter to create a rectangular cross-sectional area. Thus, the susceptor (106) would also be rectangular, resulting in dimensions similar to the cross-sectional area of ​​the elongated cylinder.

[0029] In some embodiments, the susceptor (106) may be a metal plate. In some embodiments, the susceptor (106) may be a metal plate having multiple openings (110), such as a mesh screen. Induction heating appears to be most effective and efficient at the edges of the susceptor (106). A mesh screen creates more edges in the susceptor (106) that can come into contact with the consumable-containing unit (104), because the edges define the openings (110).

[0030] Preferably, the susceptor (106) may be a strip patterned with a series of small openings (110), increasing the amount of edge usable in an efficient induction heating process, followed by a larger gap (112) that allows for a length of susceptor (106) where induction heating is not possible, and the gap makes induction heating impossible or at least weakens induction heating and / or weakens conduction from the heated segment. This configuration allows for a consumable-containing package (102) heated in a separate segment. The elongated susceptor (106) may be an elongated metal plate having a longitudinal direction, the elongated metal plate having a set of openings (110a, 110b) and a set of gaps (112a, 112b), where the sets of openings (110a, 110b) are arranged alternately with the sets of gaps (112a, 112b) along the longitudinal direction of the elongated metal plate, such that each set of openings (110a, 110b) is adjacent to one of the gaps (112a, 112b). Thus, moving from one end of the susceptor (106) to the opposite end, one encounters the first set of openings (110a), then the first gap (112a), then the second set of openings (110b), then the second gap (112b), and so on. In the region of the gaps (112), there is little metallic material; therefore, heat transfer is minimal. Therefore, even if the consumable-containing unit (104) is a single unit, it may still be heated in a separate section. The consumable-containing unit (104) and the susceptor (106) are then enclosed in a container (108).

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the container (108) may be made of aluminum having a pre-punched opening (120). The consumable-containing unit (104) is placed inside the container (108) to retain the heat generated by the susceptor (106). The opening (120) of the container (108) allows consumable aerosol to leak out when heated. The opening (120) may be temporarily sealed using a coating, as it creates a passage that allows air to enter the container (108) and expose the consumable-containing unit (104). The coating may preferably be made of a composition that melts at the temperature at which the consumable aerosol is produced. Thus, as the susceptor (106) is heated and the lack of air inside the container (108) causes the consumable-containing unit (104) to rise to a very high temperature without burning. As the susceptor (106) reaches a high temperature and the consumable aerosol that begins to form cannot leak out. As the coating gradually melts away, exposing the opening (120), the consumable aerosol can then leak out of the container (108) for inhalation. In a preferred embodiment, the coating may be a propylene glycol alginate ("PGA") gel. The coating may also contain a flavoring agent. Thus, as the coating gradually melts away and the consumable aerosol is released, the flavoring agent is also released along with the consumable aerosol. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent may be mixed with an additive.

[0032] In some embodiments, the opening (120) may be a plurality of holes or slits. The opening (120) may be formed along the length of the side wall (122) of the container (108), arranged radially around the side wall (122), or arranged arbitrarily or uniformly through the side wall (122). In some embodiments, the opening (120) may be a plurality of holes along the opposing ends (124, 126) of the container (108). In some embodiments having a rectangular consumable-containing unit (104), the container (108) also extends with one or more elongated slit-shaped openings (120) that traverse the length of the container parallel to the longitudinal axis L, thereby creating a seam. The seam may be folded or corrugated, but still leave a gap through which the consumable aerosol can move, either along its entire length or in separate regions. As with the openings (120) described above, the seam may be sealed with a coating.

[0033] The consumable-containing package (102) may further include a filter tube (140) for enclosing the consumable-containing unit (104), the susceptor (106), and the container (108). The filter tube (140) may be made of filter material to capture any undesirable debris while allowing the consumable aerosol released from the heating of the container to move laterally through the filter. The filter tube (140) may surround the container (108) and further cover the coated opening (120). Since the filter tube (140) may be made of filter material, the consumable aerosol can move through the filter tube (140). Any suitable filter material may be used, but as just one example, the filter tube may be made of cellulose or cellulose acetate.

[0034] The consumable-containing package (102) may further include a housing (150) for housing a filter tube (140). The housing (150) may be a cardboard tube. The housing (150) is impermeable to the passage of the consumable aerosol. Therefore, the housing (150) wrapped around the filter tube (140) creates a longitudinal path through which the consumable aerosol passes, rather than radially leaking out of the filter tube (140). This allows the consumable aerosol to follow an inhalation path toward the user's mouth. One end (152) of the housing (150) may be covered with an end cap (154). The end cap (154) may be made of some kind of filter material. Opposite ends (156) of the housing (150) are a mouthpiece (158), which the user inhales, drawing the heated consumable aerosol from the container (108) along the filter tube (140) towards the mouthpiece (158) and into the user's mouth. Thus, the mouthpiece (158) can also be a type of filter, similar to that of the end cap (154). The consumable-containing package (102) includes a path through which the consumable aerosol passes, and if the path is directly connected to the mouthpiece (158), which is also part of the consumable-containing package (102), and the path is isolated from the case (202), then the case (202) will remain free of any residue or by-products formed during the operation of the device. In this configuration, the case (202) remains clean and does not require the user to periodically clean the case (202).

[0035] In some embodiments, the container (108) may be made of a two-piece unit having a first container section (108a) and a second container section (108b). The consumable-containing unit (104) can be inserted into the first container section (108a), and the second container section (108b) can be placed on top of the first container section (108a) to cover the consumable-containing unit (104). A pre-set opening (120) may be formed inside the container (108) before the consumable-containing unit (104) is sealed inside.

[0036] A general principle of the consumable-containing package (102) was established, and variations that achieve the same objective were also considered. For example, in one embodiment, two elongated sections (104a, 104b) may be included. The two elongated sections (104a, 104b) of the consumable-containing unit (104) may be defined by a plane parallel to a longitudinal axis L along the diameter and cut through the longitudinal axis L along the diameter. Thus, the two elongated sections (104a, 104b) may be semi-cylindrical sections that, when fitted together, form a complete cylindrical consumable-containing unit (104).

[0037] In some embodiments, the consumable-containing unit (104) may be in the form of a pellet or tablet, as shown in Figures 3A-3D. Unlike the consumable-containing unit (104), which is an elongated cylinder or tube with sidewalls (109) much longer than its diameter, the tablet may be a short cylinder defining a longitudinal axis L, where the length of the sidewalls (109) is closer to or shorter than the diameter. The susceptor (106) may be a flat circle to match the cross-sectional shape of the tablet when cut transversely perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The consumable-containing unit (104) can be compressed around the susceptor (106). To mimic a cigarette, multiple consumable-containing units (104) may be stacked end-to-end along the longitudinal axis L to form an elongated cylinder. Thus, each consumable-containing unit (104) can be heated separately, effectively mimicking the segments of each consumable-containing unit (104) having an elongated tubular body.

[0038] Other shapes, such as squares and rectangles, can also be used, with the susceptor (106) being a corresponding shape. However, the cylindrical shape is preferred because it is easy to mimic the shape of an actual cigarette.

[0039] In some embodiments, the consumable-containing unit (104) may be formed from two sections (104a, 104b) of the consumable-containing unit (104) that combine together to form a whole, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B. The two sections (104a, 104b) are defined by dividing the consumable-containing unit (104) horizontally in half along a plane perpendicular to the vertical axis L. A susceptor (106) may be sandwiched between the two sections (104a, 104b). With the susceptor (106) sandwiched between the two consumable-containing sections (104a, 104b), the consumable-containing unit (104) may be housed in a container (108). This process may be repeated to produce multiple consumable-containing units (104), each with a susceptor (106) sandwiched between them and housed in a container (108). Multiple consumable-containing units (104) can be stacked one by one to create a consumable-containing package (102) in which each individual consumable-containing unit (104) can be heated separately at one time.

[0040] In some embodiments, the container (108) may be aluminum wrapped around a consumable-containing unit (104). The aluminum may have extra folds (130, 132) at opposing ends, as shown in Figure 3D. These extra folds (130, 132) create gaps between adjacent consumable-containing units (104) when stacked on top of each other.

[0041] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the container (108) may be two-piece, having a first container section (108a) and a second container section (108b) that serves as a cover or cap for housing a consumable-containing unit (104) inside the first container section (108a). As previously described, the opening (120) on the container (108) may be located along the side wall (122) or at the ends (124, 126). As previously described, the susceptor (106) may be any kind of metal subject to induction heating, including steel wool, as shown in Figure 4B. In preferred embodiments, multiple edges are created in the susceptor (106) by creating multiple holes (110) or by using a steel wool filament that is compressed overall. The steel wool filament may be thin to medium in thickness. As discussed above, steel wool pads may be soaked in, coated with, or filled with additives, fragrances, protective agents, and / or fillers.

[0042] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 5A–6B, multiple consumable-containing units (104) may be housed in a single elongated container (108). The container (108) may be molded with compartments (111) to receive each individual consumable-containing unit (104). In some embodiments, the individual compartments (111) may be connected to one another by bridges (121). In some embodiments, the bridges (121) may define a path (125) that allows fluid connection between one compartment (111) and another. In some embodiments, the bridges (121) may be corrugated to prevent fluid connection between one compartment (111) and another through the bridge. In some embodiments, the elongated container (108) may be a two-piece assembly divided laterally along a longitudinal axis L, as shown in Figures 6A–6B. The consumable-containing units (104) may be installed in compartments (111) of one of the container sections (108a). Subsequently, the second container section (108b) can be fitted into the first container section (108a) to cover the consumable containing unit (104). The division between the first container section (108a) and the second container section (108b) can be used as an opening (120). Alternatively, a pre-set opening (120) can be formed in one or both of the container sections (108a, 108b).

[0043] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 7A–7D, the container (108) may be made of a material that allows the container (108) to function as a susceptor. For example, the container (108) may be made of steel, or otherwise iron steel, or any other metal that can be heated using induction heating. In such embodiments, the internal susceptor (106) would not need to be embedded in the consumable-containing unit (104). The container (108) can still include a plurality of holes (120) and may be covered with additives and / or sealants such as PGA. Such embodiments can be elongated tubes as shown in Figure 7A, or tablets or discs as shown in Figure 7B. The container (108) may be a two-piece container having a first container section (108a) and a second container section (108b), as previously discussed.

[0044] In some embodiments, the container (108) may have a transverse slit (123) that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L and traverses the container (108), as shown in Figures 7C and 7D. The slit (123) creates segmentation within the container (108) so that only one small segment of the consumable-containing unit (104) is heated per operation. The transverse slit (123) can be a through hole, thereby exposing the consumable-containing unit (104) to the bottom. In such embodiments, the segment may be filled with a coating or other filler to seal the hole, either permanently or with a material that melts upon heating, allowing aerosols to leak through the slit (123). In some embodiments, the filler may be made of a material that can act as a substance that does not heat easily, through a heat sink and / or induction that reduces the heating effect in the transverse slit (123). In some embodiments, the transverse slit (123) may be a recess or protrusion in the container (108). In other words, the lateral slit (123) may be a thinned portion of the container (108). Thus, the lateral slit (123) may define a well. The well may be filled with a heat sink and / or a filler that can act as a material that does not heat up easily via induction, in order to reduce heat conduction along the lateral slit (123).

[0045] induction heating

[0046] Heating of the consumable-containing unit (104) is achieved by an induction heating process that provides non-contact heating to a metal, preferably a steel material, by placing the metal in the presence of a fluctuating magnetic field generated by an induction heating element (160), as shown in Figures 8A-8B. In a preferred embodiment, the induction heating element (160) is a conductor (162) wound around a coil that generates a magnetic field when current passes through the coil. The metal susceptor (106) is placed close enough to the conductor (162) to enter the magnetic field. In a preferred embodiment, the coil is wound in such a way that it defines a central cavity (164). This allows the consumable-containing package (102) to be inserted into the cavity (164) and the coil surrounds the susceptor (106) without touching it. The current passing through the coil is alternating current, which creates a rapidly alternating magnetic field. An alternating magnetic field can create eddy currents in the susceptor (106), which can cause heat to be generated inside the susceptor (106). Therefore, the consumable-containing package (102) is generally heated from the inside out. In embodiments where the container (108) also acts as a susceptor, the consumable-containing package (102) is heated from the outside in.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the segments of the consumable-containing package (102) will be heated individually. Therefore, the conductor (162) may also be provided as individual sets (162a-f) of coiled conductors, as shown in Figure 8A. Each conductor coil (162a-f) may be mounted on a controller (166) which can be controlled to operate one conductor coil (162a-f) at a time. Six conductor coils (162a-f) are shown in Figure 8A, but more or fewer coils may be used. In an alternative embodiment, a single conductor coil (162) may be used, along with a mechanical mechanism that moves the coil along the consumable-containing package (102) to heat each segment of the consumable-containing package (102) individually.

[0048] Individual conductor coils (162a-f) may correspond to separate segments of the consumable-containing package (102), as shown in Figures 3A-6B. Alternatively, each conductor coil (162a-f) may correspond to a specific length of a continuous consumable-containing package (102), as shown in Figures 2A-2D, 7A, and 7D, and only that specific length may be heated. Preliminary tests of such embodiments suggest that adjacent unheated consumables act as insulators, and heating along separate lengths of the consumable-containing package (102) does not heat adjacent portions of the consumable-containing package (102) to a noticeable degree. Thus, structures that limit heat conduction are discussed herein and may be useful, but are not necessarily required.

[0049] The power-to-heat conversion efficiency in the susceptor (106) is referred herein to as “conversion efficiency,” and some of these factors are identified based on various factors such as the bulk resistance of the metal, the dielectric of the metal, the shape of the metal and heat loss, the consistency of the power supply, the shape of the coil, and losses related to operation and overall operating frequency. The device (100) is designed and configured to maximize the conversion efficiency.

[0050] Aerosol generator

[0051] To enable heating and conversion of consumables into aerosols, a housing (150) containing a filter tube (140) wound around a consumable-containing unit (104) is placed inside an aerosol generator (200), as shown in Figures 9A-9C. The aerosol generator (200) includes a case (202) housing a consumable-containing package (102), an induction heating element (160) for heating a susceptor (106), and a controller (166) for controlling the induction heating element (160).

[0052] The case (202) is designed for ergonomic use. For the sake of simplification of terminology, the case (202) will be described using terms such as front, back, side, top, and bottom. These terms are not intended to be limiting, but rather to describe the relative positions of the various components. For the purposes of describing the present invention, the front (210) is the part of the case (202) that faces the user when used as intended as described herein. When the user grasps the case (202) for use as intended, the user's fingers wrap around the back (212) of the device (100) and the thumb wraps around the front (210).

[0053] The case (202) defines a cavity (214) (see Figure 1) in which the components of the device (100) are housed. Thus, the case (202) is designed to house substantial portions of the consumable-containing package (102), the controller (166), the induction heating element (160), and the power supply (220). In a preferred embodiment, the top front portion of the case (202) defines an orifice (216). The mouthpiece portion (158) of the consumable-containing package (102) protrudes outward from the orifice (216) so that the user can touch the consumable-containing package (102). The mouthpiece (158) protrudes sufficiently outward from the case (202) so that the user can place their lips around the mouthpiece (158) and inhale the consumable aerosol.

[0054] The case (202) is intended to be user-friendly and easily transportable. In a preferred embodiment, the case (202) may have dimensions of approximately 85 mm in height (measured from the top surface (222) to the bottom surface (224)), 44 mm in depth (measured from the front surface (210) to the back surface (212)), and 22 mm in width (measured from side surface (226) to side surface (228)). It may be manufactured by proto-molding for higher quality / more robust plastic parts.

[0055] In some embodiments, the consumables-containing package (102) may be held in a retractor, which allows the consumables-containing package (102) to be stored inside the case (202) for storage and transport. The configuration of the consumables-containing package (102) eliminates the need for cleaning through holes, as is the case (202) with some combustion still spreading and producing byproduct residues from the combustion. In embodiments in which the consumables-containing package (102) includes a mouthpiece (158) and a filter tube (140) for the user, if byproducts are produced during operation, they remain in the disposable consumables-containing package (102), which is replaced when the user inserts a new consumables-containing package (102) and, if necessary, the filter tube (140) into the case (202). Thus, the inside of the case (202) remains clean during operation.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the top surface (222) of the case (202) includes a user interface (230). Placing the user interface (230) on the top surface (222) of the case (202) allows the user to easily check the status of the device (100) prior to use. The user can potentially view the user interface (230) even while inhaling. The user interface (230) may be a multi-color LED (RGB) display for displaying the status of the device in use. Optical conductors may be used to provide a wide field of view of this display. As just one example, the user interface (230) has a 0.96-inch (diagonal) OLED display with a 128x32 format and an I2C (or SPI) interface. The user interface (230) is capable of tactile feedback (234) (vibration) and audio feedback (250) (piezoelectric transducer). In some embodiments, a transparent plastic (PC or ABS) cover may be placed over the OLED glass to protect the OLED glass from damage / scratches.

[0057] The rear surface (212) of the case includes a trigger (232), which is a finger-activated (firmly pressed) button for turning on / starting the device. Preferably, the trigger (232) is adjacent to the top surface (212). In this configuration, the user can hold the case (202) as intended with their index finger on or near the trigger (232) for convenient activation. In some embodiments, a locking mechanism is located above the trigger (232)—either mechanically or through an electrical coupling that requires the case (202) to be opened before the trigger (232) is electrically activated. In some embodiments, a tactile feedback motor (234) may be mechanically coupled to the trigger (232) to improve the user's perception of tactile feedback during operation. Activation of the trigger (232) powers an induction heating element (160) to heat the susceptor (106).

[0058] The device (100) is powered by a battery (220). Preferably, the battery (220) is a dual-cell lithium-ion battery pack (connected in series) with a continuous current draw capacity of 4A and a rated current of 650-750mAh. The dual-cell pack may include protection circuits. The battery (220) can be charged using a USB Type-C connector (236). The USB Type-C connector (236) may also be used for communication. The controller (166) may also provide battery voltage monitoring (238) for battery status indication regarding charging / discharging.

[0059] A trigger (232) is operably connected to an induction coil driver (240) via a controller (166). The induction coil driver (240) activates an induction heating element (160) to heat the susceptor (106). The present invention eliminates the motor-driven coil design of the prior art. The induction coil driver (240) can provide drive / multiplexing for a number of coils. For example, the induction coil driver (240) can provide drive / multiplexing for six or more coils. Each coil is wound around one segment of a consumable-containing package (102) and can be activated at least once. Thus, one segment of the consumable-containing package (102) can be heated, for example, twice. In a device (100) with six coils, the user can perform 12 "inhalations" from the device (100).

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the induction coil drive circuit can be directly controlled by a microprocessor controller (166). Special peripherals in this processor (numerically controlled oscillators) enable the processor to generate a drive waveform frequency that minimizes CPU processing overhead. The induction coil circuit may have one or more capacitors connected in parallel, thereby making the circuit a parallel resonant circuit.

[0061] The drive circuit may include current monitoring with a "peak detector" that feeds back to the analog input on the processor. The function of the peak detector is to capture the maximum current value of any voltage cycle of the drive circuit, which provides a stable output voltage for conversion by the analog-to-digital converter (part of the microprocessor chip), and this is then used by the induction coil drive algorithm.

[0062] The induction coil driving algorithm is implemented in firmware running on a microprocessor. The resonant frequencies of the induction coil and capacitor will be known with reasonable precision by design as follows:

[0063] Resonance frequency (Hertz)=1 / (2*π*SQRT{L*C})

[0064] At this time, π = 3.1415...

[0065] SQRT represents the square root of the content inside the parentheses (...).

[0066] L = the measured inductance of the induction coil, and

[0067] C = the known capacitance of the capacitors connected in parallel.

[0068] There will be manufacturing tolerances for the L and C (from top) values, which will introduce some variation between the actual resonant frequency and that calculated using the formula above. Furthermore, variations in the inductance of the induction coil will be observed based on what is located inside this coil. In particular, the presence of steel material inside (or very close to) this coil will alter some amount of inductance, resulting in a small change in the resonant frequency of the LC circuit.

[0069] The firmware algorithm for driving the induction coil monitors the current while sweeping the operating frequency beyond the maximum expected frequency range, searching for the frequency at which the current draw is minimized. This minimum value will occur at the resonant frequency. Once this "center frequency" is found, the algorithm continues to sweep the frequency in small increments on one side of the center frequency, adjusting the value of the center frequency as needed to maintain the minimum current value.

[0070] The electronic components are connected to a controller (166). The controller (166) enables processor-based frequency control to optimize the heating of the susceptor (106). The relationship between frequency and temperature is rarely directly correlated, mainly due to the fact that temperature is a result of frequency, duration, and the way the consumable-containing package (102) is configured. The controller (166) may further provide current monitoring for determining power supply and peak voltage monitoring across the induction coil for establishing resonance. As just one example, the controller may provide a frequency of about 400 kHz to about 500 kHz, preferably 440 kHz, with a 3-second preheating cycle, to raise the temperature of the susceptor (106) to over 400 degrees Celsius in 1 second. In some embodiments, the temperature of the susceptor (106) can be raised to over 550 degrees Celsius in 1 second. In some embodiments, the temperature can be raised to 800 degrees Celsius. Thus, the present invention has an effective range of 400-800 degrees Celsius. In conventional equipment, such temperatures would burn the consumables, rendering the equipment useless at these temperatures. In the present invention, such high temperatures can be used to improve the efficiency of aerosol generation and enable faster heating times.

[0071] The device (100) may further include a communication system (242). In a preferred embodiment, a Bluetooth low-energy radio may be used to communicate with peripheral devices. The communication system (242) may be connected to the main processor via a serial interface, for example, to communicate with a telephone. Commercially available RF modules (certified: FCC, IC, CE, MIC) may also be used. One example utilizes Laird's BL652 module because its SmartBasic support enables rapid application development. The communication system (242) allows the user to program the device (100) to suit individual preferences related to aerosol density, amount of flavor released, etc., by controlling the frequency and three duty cycles, specifically the preheating, heating, and relaxation phases of the induction heating element (160). The communication system (242) may have one or more USB ports (236).

[0072] In some embodiments, a battery-backed Real-Time Clock (RTC) may be used to monitor usage information. The RTC may measure and store relevant user data, which is used in conjunction with external applications downloaded to peripheral devices such as smartphones.

[0073] In some embodiments, a micro USB connector (or USB Type-C connector, or other suitable connector) may be located on the bottom surface of the case (202). To reduce the load on the connector due to cable force, support connectors with plastic components may be provided on all surfaces.

[0074] As just one example, the device (100) may be used as follows: Power for the device can be turned on from the momentary activation of the trigger (232). For example, a short press of the trigger (<1.5 seconds) may turn on the device (100) but will not start a heating cycle. During this time, a second short press of the trigger (232) (<1 second) will keep the device (100) on for a longer period of time and start a Bluetooth notification to the phone if there is no active (coupled) Bluetooth connection. A long press of the trigger (232) (>1.5 seconds) will start a heating cycle. Power to the device (100) can remain on for a short time (e.g., 5 seconds) after each heating cycle, and the updated unit status will be displayed on the OLED user interface (230) before powering off. In some embodiments, the device (100) may be powered on when the consumable-containing package (102) is unfolded from the case (202). In some embodiments, a separate power switch (246) may be used to turn the device on or off.

[0075] When an active connection with a smartphone is confirmed and the custom application is running on the smartphone, the device (100) will remain powered on for up to two minutes, after which it will power off. If the battery level is too low to operate, the user interface display (230) will flash several times (with the battery icon indicating "0%") before the unit turns off.

[0076] In some embodiments, the user interface (230) displays segmented cigarettes and indicates which segments are remaining (filled in) versus which segments are used (outlined) as an indicator of how much consumables the consumable-containing package (102) still contains. The user interface (230) also displays an updated battery icon with the current battery status, a charging icon (lightning bolt) when the device is plugged into a power source, and a Bluetooth icon when an active connection to a smartphone exists. The user interface (230) may also display a slowly blinking Bluetooth icon when no connection exists but the device (100) is issuing a notification.

[0077] The device may also have an indicator (248) to inform the user of the power status. The indicator (248) may be an RGB LED. As just one example, the RGB LED may turn on a green LED when the device is first powered on, blink a red LED during the preheating time, turn on a red LED during the "suction" time, and blink a blue LED while charging. The blinking duty cycle indicates the battery charge status in relative increments of 20% (20-100%) (when filled with blue, it means fully charged). The blue LED may blink rapidly when an active Bluetooth connection is detected (a phone is connected to the device and a custom application on the phone is running).

[0078] Haptic feedback can provide additional information to the user during use. For example, two short pulse signals may be sent as soon as the power is turned on (by triggering the button with a finger). At the end of the preheating cycle, an extended pulse signal may be sent to indicate that the device is moving to inhalation (start of the HNB "inhalation" cycle). A short pulse signal may be sent when the USB power is first connected or disconnected. A short pulse signal may be sent when an active smartphone application running on the smartphone and an active Bluetooth connection are established.

[0079] After the device is powered on by a short press (<1.5 seconds) of the finger grip button, a Bluetooth connection may be initiated. If there is no "paired" BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) connection, the device may slowly initiate a notification (pairing mode) after a second short press is detected following the first short press that powers on the device. Once a connection with the smartphone application is established, the Bluetooth icon on the user interface display (230) stops flashing and the blue LED turns on (lights up). If the device (100) is powered on and has a "paired" connection with the smartphone, the device may initiate a notification to attempt to re-establish the connection with this phone until it is powered off. If a connection with this smartphone can be re-established, the unit will remain powered on for up to 2 minutes and then power off. To remove the paired connection, the user can power on the device with a short press and then press it again. The user can continue to press the trigger (232) while the BLE icon is flashing, the device (100) vibrates, and the Bluetooth icon disappears.

[0080] Therefore, strict control of the aforementioned conversion efficiency factors and product consistency factors makes it possible to provide a controlled heat supply to the consumable-containing unit (104). This controlled heat supply includes a microprocessor controller (166) for monitoring the induction heating system (160) to maintain various levels of power supply to the susceptor (106) over a controlled time interval. These features enable user control functions, thereby allowing for the selection of a particular flavor of the consumable, such as that determined by the temperature at which the consumable aerosol is generated.

[0081] In some embodiments, a microprocessor or configurable logic block may be used to control the frequency and power supply of the induction heating system. As shown in Figure 10A, the induction heating system (160) may include a wire coil (162) in parallel with one or more capacitors (260) to and from a self-resonant oscillator. The capacitance of the capacitors (260) and the inductance of the coils (162) combined largely define the resonant frequency at which the circuit operates. However, in this embodiment, a microprocessor / microcontroller (166) may be used instead to drive a power switch and thus control the oscillation frequency of the circuit. In this approach, peak voltage and current are used as feedback to enable a microprocessor-controlled program to provide closed tuning for finding resonance. The advantage of this approach is that the power supplied to the susceptor can be efficiently controlled by synchronously switching the oscillation of the circuit on and off under the control of a microprocessor (166)-controlled program, and that optimal on / off switching of the power control element driving the induction coil system can be provided.

[0082] Based on these concepts, many variations have been considered by the inventors. Thus, as discussed above, the present invention includes a consumables-containing unit (104), a susceptor (106) embedded within the consumables-containing unit (104), a heating element (160) configured to at least partially surround the consumables-containing unit (104), a controller (166) for controlling the heating element (160), and a case (202) housing the consumables-containing unit (104), the susceptor (106), the heating element (160), and the controller (166). Preferably, the consumables-containing unit (104), together with the susceptor (106), is housed in a consumables-containing package (102). Therefore, since some embodiments do not necessarily require packaging of the consumables-containing unit (104), any description regarding the relationship between the other components of the present invention and the consumables-containing package (102) may also apply to the consumables-containing unit (104).

[0083] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 10A, the device includes a self-resonant oscillator for controlling an induction heating element (160). The self-resonant oscillator includes a capacitor (260) operably connected in parallel to the induction heating element (160). In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 10B, multiple heating elements (160) may be connected in parallel to their respective capacitors (260a, 260b). Preferably, the heating elements are in the form of coiled wires (162a, 162b).

[0084] Multiple heating elements (160) and / or movable heating elements (160) may be used to enable a single consumable-containing package (102) to generate aerosols multiple times. Thus, the heating element (160) includes multiple coil wires (162a, b), where each coil wire may be operably connected to a controller (166) for activation independent of other coil wires.

[0085] In some embodiments, the heating element (160) may be movable. In such embodiments, the consumable-containing package (102) may be an elongated member defining a first longitudinal axis L, and the heating element (162) may be configured to move axially along the first longitudinal axis L. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the heating element (160) may be mounted on a carrier (270). The carrier (270) may be operably connected to a housing (202) so that the heating element (160) moves along the length of the consumable-containing package (102) while remaining wound as a coil around the consumable-containing package (102). The span S of the coil (measured as the straight-line distance from the first turn of the coil (272) to the last turn of the coil (272)) may be long enough to cover one segment of the consumable-containing package (102). Once the heating element (160) is activated in its segment, the carrier (270) moves along the consumable-containing package (102) along the longitudinal axis L to another segment of the consumable-containing package (102). The distance traveled by the carrier (270) is the distance at which the first turn (272) of the coil stops adjacent to the location where the last turn (274) of the coil previously existed. Thus, a new segment of the same size as the previously heated segment is ready to be heated. This can continue until the carrier (270) moves from the first end (105) of the consumable-containing package (102) to the opposite end (107).

[0086] In embodiments where a consumable-containing package (102) houses multiple consumable-containing units (104), the coil span S may be approximately the same size as the length of the consumable-containing unit (104). The carrier (270) is configured to align the coil with the consumable-containing unit (104) so ​​that the coil can heat the entire consumable-containing unit (104). The carrier (270) may be configured to move the coil from one consumable-containing unit (104) to the next, thereby again, a single consumable-containing package (102) is heated multiple times, with an aerosol released each time.

[0087] As shown in Figures 12A-12E, the apparatus (200) may include a package aligner to assist in the proper alignment of the heating element (160) around the consumable-containing package (102). For example, the package aligner may be a magnet (280). Preferably, the magnet (280) is a cylindrical magnet that defines a second longitudinal axis M. In embodiments where the heating element (160) is a cylindrical coil wound around the consumable-containing package (102), the cylindrical coil defines a third longitudinal axis C. The cylindrical magnet (280) and the heating element (160) are configured to maintain the alignment of the second longitudinal axis M on the same axis as the third longitudinal axis C. Preferably, the cylindrical magnet (280) is a round ring magnet with its center being a path for airflow. Preferably, both magnets (280) will be of the rare-earth neodymium type. They will be magnetized in the axial direction.

[0088] In embodiments using a magnet (280) for alignment, one end (105) of the consumable-containing package (102) may include a magnetically attracted element (281). Preferably, the magnetically attracted element (281) is a pressed sheet metal of primary iron fabricated into one end (105) of the consumable-containing package (102). The cylindrical magnet (280) may be part of the aerosol generator (200), and the consumable-containing package (102) may have a magnetically attracted element (281) or washer at its end (105) so that the consumable-containing package (102) is attracted to the magnet (280) attached to the aerosol generator (200). Other combinations of the magnet (280) and the magnetically attracted element (281) may be used to achieve desired alignment at various positions.

[0089] In some embodiments, preferably embodiments using a consumable-containing package (102) comprising a filter tube (140) and a housing (150), the package aligner may be a receiving portion (151), such as a snug-fitting cylinder (if the housing (150) is cylindrical), which can be used to align the consumable-containing package (102), and the coil (162) may be located outside the receiving portion (151), as shown in Figure 12E. Preferably, the receiving portion (151) will be made of a non-conductive material such as borosilicate glass, quartz glass, pyroceram glass, Robax glass, and high-temperature plastics such as Vespel, Torlon, polyimide, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), PEEK (polyetheretherketone), or other suitable material, in order to avoid induction heating. Alternatively, the cylinder may be made of a conductive material having lower resistance than the susceptor (106) in the consumable-containing package (102), thereby allowing some induction heating of the receiving portion (151), but not to the same extent as the susceptor (106). Other materials may be used, but if the susceptor (106) is made of a higher-resistance material such as iron, steel, tin, carbon, or tungsten, examples of lower-resistance materials may include copper, aluminum, and brass. In some embodiments, a receiving portion (151) having greater resistance than the susceptor (106) may be used, in which case the receiving portion (151) is heated via induction, and the outside of the consumable-containing package (102) is heated. The receiving portion (151) can be fixed to the device (200) and is properly aligned with the coil (162) so that the susceptor (106) is properly aligned with the coil (162) when the consumable-containing package (102) is inserted into the coil (162).

[0090] In some embodiments, the housing (150) may function as a receiving part. Thus, the housing (150) may have the characteristics described above rather than another receiving part (151), and insertion into the coil (162) may function as an alignment process, or the housing may be fixed within the filter tube (140) containing the coil (162) and the consumable-containing unit (104), and the susceptor (106) may be inserted into the housing (150).

[0091] In some embodiments, multiple activations of a single consumable-containing package can be achieved by a susceptor (106) having multiple poles (290), as shown in Figures 13A-D. A multi-pole susceptor is a susceptor (106) having two or more poles (290). In some embodiments, the susceptor may have three poles (290a, 290b, 290c). In some embodiments, the susceptor (106) may have four poles. In some embodiments, the susceptor (106) may have more than four poles. In preferred embodiments, the multi-pole susceptor (106) has three or four poles.

[0092] The multiple poles (290a, 290b, 290c) of the multi-pole susceptor (106) are generally parallel to each other, as shown in Figures 13C and 13D. The multi-pole susceptor (106) can be configured and embedded in the consumable-containing package (102) such that each pole (290a, 290b, 290c) is parallel to the vertical axis L of the consumable-containing package (102), equally spaced from the vertical axis L, and equally spaced from each other along the circumference of an imaginary circle. Thus, as shown in Figures 14A-C, in a cross-sectional view, the poles (290a, 290b, 290c) of the susceptor are positioned equally spaced from each other around the circular surface of the consumable-containing package (102). Such an arrangement allows for the maximization of non-overlapping heating zones for each pole (290a, 290b, 290c) when each pole is activated to its maximum capacity. In other words, when the susceptor poles (290a, 290b, 290c) are heated, they radiate heat radially, creating a circular heating zone around them. Each susceptor pole (290a, 290b, 290c) heats its own circular heating zone, although some overlap may be unavoidable. Collectively, the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the consumable-containing unit (104) can be heated, with one cross-sectional segment heated at a time.

[0093] When the heating element (160) is a cylindrical coil wound around the susceptor (106), the maximum amount of energy is transferred to the center of the cylindrical coil. Therefore, when the susceptor (106) is aligned with the center of the cylindrical coil, the susceptor (106) will receive the maximum amount of energy from the electricity passing through the coil. In other words, when the susceptor poles (290a, 290b, 290c) are collinear with the cylindrical coil, the susceptor poles (290a, 290b, 290c) will receive the maximum amount of energy from the cylindrical coil. Therefore, in order to heat each susceptor electrode (290a, 290b, 290c) independently, the centers of the susceptor electrodes (290a, 290b, 290c) and the coils must be moved relative to each other so that the center of the coil aligns sequentially with one of the susceptor electrodes (290a, 290b, 290c). This can be achieved by moving the susceptor electrodes relative to the coils, or by moving the coils relative to the susceptor electrodes, or both.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the heating element (160) moves relative to the susceptor (106). For example, as shown in Figures 14A-16D, the cylindrical coil may be wound around a consumable-containing package (102) and configured to rotate along an eccentric path such that during a single rotation of the cylindrical coil, each of the poles (290a, 290b, 290c) aligns with the center of the coil at different timings. The consumable-containing package (102) may be an elongated member defining a first longitudinal axis L, where the heating element (160) is a coil wound around the consumable-containing package (102) to form a cylinder defining a second longitudinal axis C, and the heating element (160) may be configured to rotate around the consumable-containing package (102) in an eccentric path such that the second longitudinal axis C aligns at a certain point with each of the poles (290a, 290b, 290c) of the multi-pole susceptor as the heating element moves around the consumable-containing package (102). Thus, the multi-pole susceptor (106) is stationary, and the coil rotates in an eccentric path such that the coil center aligns sequentially with the linear axis of each susceptor pole (290a, 290b, 290c) during the rotation. Electrical slip rings will supply energy to the coil design rotating along an eccentric path.

[0095] The rotation of the heating element (160) can be enabled by a series of gears (300a, 300b) operably connected to a motor (302). For example, as shown in Figures 17A-B, the heating element (160) can be mounted on a first gear (300a) so that the heating element can rotate together with the first gear (300a). A second gear (300b) can be operably connected to the first gear (300a) so that the second gear (300b) causes the first gear (300a) to rotate. The second gear (300b) can be operably connected to a motor (302) to rotate the second gear (300b). The heating element (160) is mounted on the first gear (300a) in such a way that the rotation of the first gear (300a) does not cause the heating element to rotate around a fixed, immovable center, but rather moves the vertical axis C of the heating element (160) along an eccentric path. Therefore, the center of the heating element (160) can be repositioned to align with different poles (290a, 290b, 290c).

[0096] In some embodiments, the heating element (160), gears (300a, 300b), and motor (302) may be mounted on a carrier (270) as shown in Figure 19. The carrier (270) allows the heating element, gears (300a, 300b), and motor (302) to move axially along the length of the consumable-containing package (102). The carrier (270) may be operably connected to a driver (306) which is operably connected to a second motor (304). For example, the driver (306) may be threaded. The carrier (270) may have a screw hole (276) into which the driver (306) is inserted. When the second motor (304) is started, the driver (306) rotates. As the driver (306) rotates, the carrier (270) moves along the driver (306) as shown by the two arrows in Figure 19.

[0097] In some embodiments, instead of rotating the heating element (160) along an eccentric path, the heating element (160) may be translated along the XY axes as viewed in cross-section. Thus, the consumable-containing package (102) may be an elongated member defining a longitudinal axis L, where the heating element (160) is configured such that, as viewed in cross-section, the cylindrical coiled heating element (160) moves radially with respect to the longitudinal axis L so that it aligns sequentially with each of the poles (290a, 290b, 290c) of the multi-pole susceptor (106). In the XY axis positioning scenario, coil energy may be supplied via a flexible conductor or by the movement of electrical contacts.

[0098] For example, a heating element (160) may be operably mounted on a pair of translational plates (310, 312) as shown in Figure 20. Specifically, the heating element (160) may be mounted directly on the first translational plate (310), or the first translational plate (310) may be mounted on the second translational plate (312). The first translational plate (310) may be configured to move in the X or Y direction, and the second translational plate (312) may be configured to move in the Y or X direction. In the embodiment shown in Figure 20, the second translational plate (312) is configured to move in the Y direction, while the first translational plate (310) is configured to move in the X direction. This configuration can be switched so that the first translational plate (310) is configured to move in the Y direction and the second translational plate (312) is configured to move in the X direction. The first and second translational plates (310, 312) can be operably connected to their respective motors, for example, via gears, for moving the translational plates in the appropriate direction. Between the two translational plates (310, 312), the heating element (160) can be moved such that its vertical axis C can be aligned collinearly with any of the poles (290a, 290b, 290c).

[0099] In other configurations, the coil assembly can move along the linear axis of the susceptor independently of the rotational or non-rotating movement mechanism discussed above. Thus, a three-pole susceptor allows the device to heat the consumable-containing package (102) three times at the same linear position by heating three different poles (290a, 290b, 290c), and then the device can move to the next linear position and heat there three more times. In a consumable-containing package (102) having four linear positions, one consumable-containing package should be able to provide 12 distinct "suctions," i.e., three poles multiplied by four positions along the length of the consumable-containing package (102).

[0100] In some embodiments, the consumable-containing package (102) may move relative to the heating element (160), rather than the heating element (160) being moved relative to the consumable-containing package (102). Thus, the consumable-containing package (102) is configured to rotate within the heating element (160) along an eccentric path such that a second vertical axis C, defined by the coil, aligns at a certain point with each of the poles (290a, 290b, 290c) of the multi-pole susceptor during the rotation of the consumable-containing package (102) within the heating element (160). Alternatively, the consumable-containing package (102) is configured to move radially within the heating element (160) such that the second vertical axis C aligns at a certain point with each of the poles of the multi-pole susceptor during the movement of the consumable-containing package (102) within the heating element (160). In some embodiments, both the consumable-containing package (102) and the heating element (160) can move. For example, the heating element (160) can move linearly along the longitudinal axis of the consumable-containing package (102), and the consumable-containing package (102) can move along an eccentric or radial path to move the susceptor (106) to a position relative to the heating element (106), so that all consumables are heated continuously as the user inhales each one. Other variations of movement may be used.

[0101] The movement mechanism described above is merely an example. The mechanism for XYZ movement scenarios can be implemented using various combinations of motors, linear actuators, gears, belts, cams, solenoids, and the like.

[0102] Referring to Figure 21, closed-loop control of an induction heating system can be based on sensing the magnetic flux density produced by the induction heating system. The induction heating system operates by creating a concentrated alternating magnetic field inside the induction coil heating element. This magnetic field, benefiting from eddy currents and magnetic flux reversal (assuming a ferrous receptor material) occurring within the susceptor material, produces a heating effect within the metal susceptor. Induction heating is generally "open-loop" in that there are limited means of monitoring the susceptor temperature inside the operating induction coil. Under controlled conditions, the magnetic flux outside the induction coil and in a reasonable vicinity of the coil can be used to determine the magnetic flux strength inside the coil. For example, a small coil (310) can be placed in a reasonable vicinity of the induction coil type heating element (160) such that its axis is approximately parallel to the magnetic field lines of the magnetic flux passing through the small coil (310), and further provides a means for detecting the magnitude of the magnetic flux of the induction coil type heating element, which is present due to the benefit of the voltage induced beyond the small coil (310) by the alternating magnetic flux passing through the small coil (310). The magnitude of this external magnetic flux can then be calibrated to correlate with the magnetic flux density inside the heating element (160) and can be used as a means of closed-loop control of the induction system to ensure consistent performance insofar as the susceptor (106) is heated. The magnetic flux exists symmetrically around the axis of the induction coil. Measurements of the magnetic flux density present at any location near the induction coil can be used to extrapolate the magnetic flux density inside the heating element based on the characterization of the relative magnitude of the magnetic flux at each location (inside the induction coil and inside the parasitic sensing coil). In practical applications, there is no need to quantify this, because magnetic flux sensing is used instead to estimate the proportion of heat generated in the susceptor (106) present in the magnetic field. Therefore, the small coil (310) configured in this way functions as a magnetic flux sensor.

[0103] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the apparatus may further include a magnetic flux sensor adjacent to the induction heating element (160) and configured to measure the magnetic flux produced by the induction heating element (160). The magnetic flux sensor may be operably connected to a controller (166) for controlling the activation of the induction heating element (160) based on feedback from the magnetic flux sensor.

[0104] In some embodiments, it is desirable to be able to detect whether or not a consumable-containing unit (104) or a portion thereof has been heated. If a consumable-containing unit (104) is already heated, the heating element (160) may heat the next consumable-containing unit (104) or the next segment of the consumable-containing unit (104) to prevent energy from being wasted on the used portion of the consumable-containing unit (104). Thus, in some embodiments, as shown in Figure 11, the device is provided with a method for detecting a used segment of the consumable-containing package (102), allowing the device to autonomously determine the next unused segment available for use. For example, the device may include a use sensor (320) for detecting whether a portion of the consumable-containing package (102) being sensed has been heated above a predetermined temperature. In some embodiments, the use sensor (320) may detect a visible change in the consumable-containing package (102) indicating heating. In some embodiments, the sensor (320) may detect a thermal change in the consumable-containing package (102) indicating heating. In some embodiments, the sensor (320) may detect a change in the structure (i.e., a change in texture) of the consumable-containing package (102) indicating heating. In some embodiments, the sensor (320) may be a controller that records the location of the heating element (160) along the consumable-containing package (102) and when it was heated in relation to its movement along the consumable-containing package (102). For example, the controller may include a memory for storing the locations of the parts of the consumable-containing package (102) that have been heated to a predetermined temperature.

[0105] In a preferred embodiment, the sensor used (320) is a light reflectance sensor. The light reflectance sensor may be configured to detect a change in the consumable-containing package (102) from its original state compared to the state when the consumable-containing package (102) is exposed to considerable heat (i.e., above the normal temperature of the day). More preferably, the consumable-containing package (102) may contain a heat-sensitive dye that changes color when heated to a predetermined temperature. Such a color change may be detectable by the light reflectance sensor.

[0106] A heat-sensitive dye can be baked onto the outer surface of the consumable-containing package (102). When a segment of the consumable-containing package (102) is heated, the band (322) closest to the heated segment changes color. For example, the band (322) may change from white to black. The working sensor (320) on which the heating element (160) is mounted has an optical system (324) focused above or below the heating element to provide the sides of the consumable-containing package (102) over the entire range of the moving heating element (160).

[0107] In some embodiments, a limit switch (326) is also incorporated into one end (105) of the consumable-containing package (102) and used to detect when the consumable-containing package (102) has been removed and reinserted into the device. When the consumable-containing package (102) is reinserted, the device activates a motor-driven heating element assembly and moves it over its full range of motion, and a use sensor (320) can detect whether there is a previously heated segment by detecting a dark band (322) of the thermal dye. Thus, the device may further include a limit switch (326) for resetting the memory when a new consumable-containing package (102) is inserted into the housing.

[0108] In some embodiments, to manage heat dissipation from the heating element (160), the apparatus may further include a heat sink (330) operably connected to the induction heating element (160). Induction heating involves the circulation of a high current in an induction coil, resulting in resistance heating in the wires used to form the coil. Heat dissipation utilizes a material with high thermal conductivity that is electrically insulating to form the heat sink (330). Preferably, the heat sink (330) may be formed through either injection molding or potting processes. Since a preferred embodiment utilizes a cylindrical coil as the heating element (160), the heat sink (330) may also be a cylinder formed around the induction coil, enclosing the coil as shown in Figure 22. The cylindrical heat sink (330) enclosing the heating element (160) resides in a vertical cavity inside the case (202), forming a kind of "chimney" in which air convection occurs. The chimney requires ventilation to facilitate airflow. This method also eliminates electromagnetic field fringing and allows for highly concentrated heating on each segment of the consumable-containing package (102). As a result of such concentration, it becomes unnecessary to wrap the consumable-containing unit (104) inside the consumable-containing package (102) with non-conductive foil or other similar material; paper or other similar material suffices.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, the heat sink (330) is a finned cylinder containing an induction heating element (160). The finned cylinder is a cylindrical heat sink with fins (332) projecting laterally away from its outer surface (334). Preferably, each fin (332) extends substantially along the length of the cylinder and provides a substantial surface area from which heat from the heating element (160) can be dissipated. The thermally conductive material of the heat sink (330) may be a polymer. The thermally conductive polymer may be a thermosetting or thermoplastic molding or embedding resin. The heat sink (330) can be machined, molded, or formed from these materials. The material may be rigid or elastic. Some examples of thermally conductive compounds used in thermally conductive polymers are aluminum nitride, boron nitride, carbon, graphite, and ceramics. In a preferred embodiment, the heating element (160) is an induction coil encased in a cylinder with fins of a thermally conductive polymer molded around the coil, with an open center that allows for ventilation through a chimney-like effect.

[0110] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 23, the apparatus may further include an airflow controller (340) for providing means for adjusting the flavor robustness of the consumable-containing unit (104) by controlling the airflow drawn in through the consumable-containing package (102). The design of the consumable-containing package (102) is such that the amount of steam / flavor introduced into the airflow passage is the pressure difference between the air passages through the consumable-containing package (102), as a function of the duration and intensity of the induction heating. This pressure difference draws steam out of the consumable-containing package (102) and into the airflow. If the airflow into the first end (105) of the consumable-containing package (102) can be controlled, it is possible to change this pressure difference, allowing more (or less) steam to be introduced into the airflow, thereby effectively changing the flavor robustness. Since it is the temperature rise of the consumable that produces this steam, this ability to change the flavor robustness is closely integrated with the heating of the consumable-containing package (102). A wide range of flavors can be robustly controlled by precise control of the heating process (time and proportion) and the airflow through the first end (105) of the consumable-containing package (102).

[0111] For example, the airflow controller (340) may include an adjustable fluid control valve (342), such as a needle valve, butterfly valve, ball valve, or adjustable aperture. The adjustable fluid control valve allows the user to control the airflow even during use. However, the airflow controller (340) may also be a membrane (344) with a fixed aperture, such as a porous or fibrous membrane or element. The membrane (344) may also serve as an intake particle filter. Thus, the fluid control mechanism may or may not be user-adjustable. In embodiments of the membrane (344), multiple membranes (344) with apertures of different sizes may be provided. Thus, the user can select a desired aperture size and apply the membrane (344) to the first end (105) of the device. If the user prefers more or less airflow, the user can select another membrane (344) with a larger or smaller aperture, respectively. In some embodiments, the airflow controller (340) may use both a control valve (342) and a membrane (344). For example, the membrane (344) may be placed before the control valve (342) to control the airflow and filter out particles, after which the control valve (342) can further control the airflow for fine-tuning control.

[0112] In some embodiments, instead of the aerosol flowing from the consumable-containing unit (104) through the opening (120) of the container (108) into the filter tube (140) and toward the mouthpiece (158), the airflow flows into the susceptor (106), as shown in Figures 25A-E, drawing activity from the consumable-containing unit (104) and consequently creating an aerosol that flows through the susceptor (106) toward the mouthpiece (158). In such embodiments, the susceptor (106) may have one or more hollow poles, each having at least one inlet (352) along the length of the pole (350) and at least one outlet (354). The pole (350) includes a junction end (356) operably connected to the susceptor base (358) and an open end (360) facing the susceptor base (358). The hollow pole (350) is connected to the susceptor base (358) at the joint end (356). The outlet (354) of the hollow pole (350) is positioned toward the open end (360). For example, the outlet may be at the tip (362) of the open end (360), or multiple outlets (354) may be arranged at an angle around the outer circumferential surface of the hollow pole (350) on the open end (360) side.

[0113] In some embodiments, the tip (362) of the open end (360) may be pointed or sharp to facilitate advancement into the consumable-containing unit (104). Particle size, density, binder, filler, or any components used in the consumable-containing unit (104) may be manipulated to allow advancement of the susceptor poles (290, 350) and / or piercing needles without causing excessive compression or changes in the density of the consumable-containing unit (104). Changes in density from compression “filling” of the consumable-containing unit (104) may have adverse effects on the air or vapor passing through the consumable-containing unit (104).

[0114] After the susceptor (106) enters, any consumable particles that could be forced through the container (108) remain trapped in the cavity (368) between the consumable-containing unit (104) and the mouthpiece (158). The tips (362) of the poles (290, 350) are sharp, making it unlikely that the consumables will be ejected from the container (108).

[0115] In some embodiments, the outlet (354) and / or inlet (352) may be covered with a coating that melts away at the heating temperature. In preferred embodiments, the consumable-containing unit (104) is long enough to cover the entire hollow pole (350) except for the outlet (354).

[0116] The susceptor base (358) may include an opening (364) corresponding to a hollow pole (350). In embodiments with multiple hollow poles (350a-d), each hollow pole (350a-d) has an opening (364) corresponding to itself.

[0117] In some embodiments, there may be multiple hollow poles (350a-d). The hollow poles (350a-d) may be arranged in a ring to fit a moving heating element (160) or a moving consumable-containing package (102). In some embodiments, there may be a single hollow pole (350) located in the center of the susceptor base (358). In some embodiments, there may be a central hollow pole (350) surrounded by multiple hollow poles (350a-d). Other arrangements of hollow poles (350) may also be used.

[0118] Each hollow pole (350) may have at least one inlet (352) and at least one outlet (354). Preferably, the hollow pole (350) includes multiple inlets (352) and multiple outlets (354). The inlets (352) may be arranged continuously along the length of the hollow pole (350). In some embodiments, the inlets (352) may be arranged in a ring around the outer circumference of the hollow pole (350). Increasing the number of inlets (352) on the hollow pole (350) increases the number of points through which the generated aerosol leaks out of the consumable-containing unit (104) and out of the consumable-containing package (102). Similarly, there may be multiple outlets (354) arranged in a ring around the outer circumference of the pole (350) on the open end (360) side.

[0119] In some embodiments, the consumable-containing unit (104) does not extend from one end (105) of the consumable-containing package (102) to the mouthpiece (158). Therefore, a cavity (368) exists between the consumable-containing unit (104) and the mouthpiece (158). This cavity (368) may be filled with a thermally conductive material, a flavoring agent, or the like.

[0120] As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 25E, the susceptor (106) is embedded in the consumable-containing unit (104) during use. When the susceptor (106) is heated by induction heating via the heating element (160), the consumable-containing unit releases an aerosol. When the user inhales through the mouthpiece (158), the pressure difference inside the consumable-containing package (102) causes the aerosol to enter the hollow pole (350) through the inlet (352) and exit through the outlet (354) (see arrows indicating airflow). The aerosol then enters the cavity (368) of the consumable-containing package (102) and is filtered through the mouthpiece (158) for inhalation by the user. Therefore, the container (108) does not need to have an opening (120).

[0121] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 26A-G, there may be a single hollow pole (350) located at the center of the susceptor base (358), with multiple poles (290a-d) surrounding the hollow pole (350). In such embodiments, the hollow pole (350) may be heated via induction heating, but is not required. In this embodiment, the consumable containing unit (104) may have a central hole through which the hollow pole (350) can be inserted for a tight fit.

[0122] As shown in Figure 26G, when the susceptor electrode (290) is heated during use, the generated aerosol enters through the inlet (352) of the hollow electrode (350) and exits through the outlet (354) into the mouthpiece (158), as indicated by the airflow arrows.

[0123] The aerosols produced by the methods and apparatus described in this invention are efficient and reduce the amount of toxic byproducts seen in conventional tobacco and other non-combustion heating devices. [Examples]

[0124] Tests were conducted on a consumable-containing package (102), which, as shown in Figures 24A-C, was prepared by compressing powdered tobacco mixed with a humectant and PGA to form a consumable-containing unit (104) around a susceptor (106), was wrapped in a foil cover as a container (108), inserted into a filter tube (140) in such a way that openings (120) exist on three sides as air passages, covered with standard tobacco paper as a housing (150), with one end covered with a high-flow proximal filter as a mouthpiece (158) and the other end covered with the tip of a distal filter as an end cap (154). The susceptor (106) is in the form of a spirally wound metal plate. The consumable-containing unit (104) and container (108) have a triangular cross-section. The filter tube (140) is a spiral paper tube.

[0125] Testing in Durham, North Carolina, was conducted using a prototype device, which, thanks to the correction of the power used in the test process, was confirmed to heat the susceptor to 611°C.

[0126] The Durham test was performed using a 20-port linear analyzer SM459 and conducted by a technician familiar with the equipment and all associated accessories. The technician placed three consumable-containing packages (102) into the smoker. Each consumable-containing package (102) was then "inhaled" six times, for a total of 18 times. The resulting aerosol was then collected on the filter pad. The "inhalation" regimen consisted of 2-second inhalations every 30 seconds, with a 55 mL volume collected using a bell curve profile. Analysis of the collected aerosols confirmed that the aerosol from each consumable stick contained 0.570 mg of carbon monoxide (CO), which is well below the level at which combustion would be assumed to have occurred, despite the fact that combustion is generally assumed to occur at temperatures above 350°C.

[0127] A second set of tests was conducted in Richmond, Virginia. The Richmond tests were performed using a prototype apparatus calibrated to heat a susceptor (106) at three different settings: 275°C, 350°C, and 425°C, with a similarly configured consumable-containing package (102). CO data were generated by Enthalpy Analytical (EA) LLC (Richmond, Virginia, USA) according to EA Method AM-007. The consumable-containing package (102) was smoked using an analytical smoking machine according to the established Canadian Intense Smoking Procedure. The vapor phase (i.e., aerosol) of the smoke was collected in a gas sampling bag attached to a smoking machine configured to the required inhalation parameters. Non-dispersive infrared absorption (NDIR) was used to measure the CO concentration in the vapor phase as a percentage of volume (volume percentage). Using the number of consumable-containing packages (102), the number of inhalations, the inhalation volume, and the ambient conditions, the percentage of CO was converted to milligrams (mg / cig) per consumable-containing package.

[0128] Despite the fact that combustion is generally assumed to occur at temperatures above 350°C under calibrated temperature settings, it was confirmed that no CO was found in the aerosols generated at each of the settings.

[0129] The tests conducted were industry standard tests. Similar industry standard tests report that commercially available non-combustible heated products contain 0.436 mg / cig of CO. Standard combustible cigarettes contain 30.2 mg / cig of CO.

[0130] The prior descriptions relating to preferred embodiments of the invention are presented for illustrative and explanatory purposes only. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to any specific form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The scope of the invention is intended to be limited not by this detailed description, but by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A device for generating aerosols, a) A consumable-containing unit containing compressed powder, b) A susceptor embedded in the consumable-containing unit, c) An induction heating element configured to at least partially surround the consumables-containing unit, d) A controller for controlling the induction heating element, e) A case for housing the consumables-containing unit, the susceptor, the induction heating element, and the controller. A device including a device.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller includes a self-resonant oscillator for controlling the induction heating element.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the self-resonant oscillator includes a capacitor operably connected to the induction heating element.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the induction heating element includes a plurality of coil wires, and each coil wire is operably connected to the controller for activation independent of other coil wires.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the induction heating element is movable.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the consumable-containing unit is an elongated member defining a first vertical axis, and the induction heating element is configured to move axially along the first vertical axis.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the consumable-containing unit includes a cylindrical magnet at one end of the consumable-containing unit, the cylindrical magnet defining a second vertical axis, where the induction heating element is a cylindrical coil wound around the consumable-containing unit, the cylindrical coil defining a third vertical axis, where the cylindrical magnet and the induction heating element are configured to maintain the alignment of the second vertical axis on the same line as the third vertical axis.

8. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the susceptor is a multi-pole susceptor.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the induction heating element is configured to rotate around the consumable-containing unit.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the multi-pole susceptor includes a plurality of poles parallel to each other and is embedded in the consumable-containing unit.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the consumable-containing unit is an elongated member defining a first vertical axis, the induction heating element is a coil wound around the consumable-containing unit to form a cylinder defining a second vertical axis, and the induction heating element is configured to rotate around the consumable-containing unit in an eccentric path such that the second vertical axis aligns at a certain point with each of the poles of the multi-pole susceptor as the induction heating element rotates around the consumable-containing unit.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the consumable-containing unit is an elongated member defining a vertical axis, and the induction heating element is configured to move radially with respect to the vertical axis.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the susceptor is a multi-pole susceptor.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the multi-pole susceptor includes a plurality of poles parallel to each other and is embedded within the consumable-containing unit.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the consumable-containing unit is an elongated member defining a first vertical axis, the induction heating element is a coil wound around the consumable-containing unit to form a cylinder defining a second vertical axis, and the consumable-containing unit is configured to rotate within the induction heating element in an eccentric path such that the second vertical axis aligns at a certain point with each of the poles of the multi-pole susceptor during the rotation of the consumable-containing unit within the induction heating element.

16. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the consumable-containing unit is an elongated member defining a first vertical axis, the induction heating element is a coil wound around the consumable-containing unit to form a cylinder defining a second vertical axis, and the consumable-containing unit is configured to move radially within the induction heating element such that the second vertical axis aligns at a certain point with each of the poles of the multi-pole susceptor as the consumable-containing unit moves within the induction heating element.

17. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a magnetic flux sensor adjacent to the induction heating element and configured to measure the magnetic flux produced by the induction heating element.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the magnetic flux sensor is operably connected to the controller in order to control the activation of the induction heating element based on feedback from the magnetic flux sensor.

19. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor for detecting whether a portion of the consumable-containing unit being sensed has been heated above a predetermined temperature.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the sensor used is a light reflection sensor.

21. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the consumable-containing unit is housed in a consumable-containing package, and the consumable-containing package contains a heat-sensitive dye that changes color when heated to a predetermined temperature, wherein the color change can be detected by the light reflection sensor.

22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the controller further includes a memory for storing the location of a portion of the consumable-containing unit that has been heated to a predetermined temperature.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, further comprising a limit switch for resetting the memory when a new consumable-containing unit is inserted into the case.

24. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a heat sink operably connected to the induction heating element.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the heat dissipation plate is a finned cylinder that covers the induction heating element.

26. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an airflow controller.

27. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the susceptor includes a hollow pole.

28. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the hollow pole includes an inlet and an outlet.

29. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a consumables-containing package aligner.

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