Aerosol generator equipped with air permeable receiving cavities

Abstract

The aerosol generating device (10) for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate comprises a cavity (200) having an opening (220) for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate, and at least one induction coil (250, 260) disposed outside the cavity and arranged to generate a varying magnetic field within the cavity in operation. The cavity is defined by a sidewall (210) extending away from the opening. The cavity sidewall (210) is formed from a non-magnetic material, preferably a non-susceptor material, and is permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air through the sidewall and into the cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system.

[0002] Aerosol generating devices configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, are known in the art. Such known devices can generate an aerosol from the substrate through the application of heat to the substrate rather than combustion of the substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be present as a component part of an aerosol-generating article physically separated from the aerosol generating device. Such an aerosol-generating article may be received within the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0003] In use, the device may provide power to enable the transfer of heat from a heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate. During use of such known aerosol generating devices, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. The released compounds condense with cooling to form an aerosol that is inhaled by the consumer.

[0004] Many aerosol generators provide heat to the outside of the aerosol generating article or aerosol-forming substrate. External heating devices that implement induction heating have a metal tubular susceptor element as a cavity for receiving consumables such as aerosol generating articles. Such systems require the susceptor element to be in close contact with the consumable to enable effective heat transfer and ensure proper air control. This introduces complexity in the manufacturing of the consumable in terms of diameter with very tight tolerances to ensure accurate fitting inside the susceptor cavity of the device. Such tight tolerances mean that the consumable can become stuck inside the device as it is naturally humidified during consumption. Therefore, removing the consumable from these tubular susceptor elements / cavities is extremely difficult. Extracting fragmented consumables from inside these cavities requires specific tools, and care must be taken not to damage the shape and surface of the susceptor.

[0005] This disclosure provides an aerosol generator for generating aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator comprises a cavity having an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity may be defined by side walls extending away from the opening. At least one induction coil may be located outside the cavity and arranged to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field within the cavity when in operation. The side walls of the cavity may be formed from a non-magnetic material. The side walls of the cavity are permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air into the cavity through the side walls.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generator is provided for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator comprises a cavity having an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity is defined by side walls extending away from the opening. At least one induction coil is positioned outside the cavity and is arranged to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field within the cavity when in operation. The side walls of the cavity are formed of a non-magnetic material. The side walls of the cavity are permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air into the cavity through the side walls.

[0007] Existing induction heating devices for external heating of aerosol-forming articles have tubular susceptor cavities. In addition to the problems mentioned above, the use of tubular susceptor cavities further restricts the use of the device in terms of the variety of consumables that can be used with it. For example, different aerosol-generating articles and consumables may require different air management setups. Furthermore, existing devices do not facilitate the customization of the consumer experience in terms of using multiple different types of aerosol-generating consumables in combination.

[0008] In this disclosure, an aerosol generator comprises a cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article, or a consumable such as a cartridge containing an aerosol generating article or an aerosol forming substrate. Preferably, an inductor located outside the cavity generates a fluctuating electromagnetic field within the cavity to induce heating of a susceptor located within the aerosol generating article or as part of a cartridge receivable within the cavity. The side walls of the cavity are formed from a non-magnetic material to minimize or eliminate interaction with the fluctuating electromagnetic field. Thus, the device may be configured as an induction heating device, but the cavity of the device itself does not heat the aerosol forming substrate. The device may be configured as an induction heating device in which the susceptor is an element receivable within the cavity.

[0009] The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from any suitable nonmagnetic material, preferably a material or a combination of materials having suitable chemical stability and UV stability.

[0010] The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from a non-susceptor material. A non-susceptor material is a material that does not undergo substantial interaction or coupling with a fluctuating electromagnetic field. The non-susceptor material does not heat up in a fluctuating electromagnetic field. The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from a polymer material, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, or polycarbonate. The sidewalls may be formed from a ceramic or glass material. The sidewalls may be formed from a composite material, such as a polymer matrix composite material.

[0011] The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from a non-magnetic metallic material. Such materials may have minimal contact with the fluctuating electromagnetic field. Therefore, heating of the cavity walls is minimal or absent. The sidewalls of the cavity may be formed from a metal selected from a list consisting of aluminum, aluminum alloys, brass, copper, copper alloys, and non-ferromagnetic stainless steel.

[0012] As used herein, the term “aerosol” refers to the dispersion of solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets, in a gas. Aerosols may be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include not only vapors of substances that are normally liquid or solid at room temperature, but also solid particles or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets.

[0013] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate having the ability to release volatile compounds that can form aerosols. The volatile compounds may be released by heating or burning the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0014] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain one or more of the following: powder, granules, pellets, fragments, twisted yarn, splinters, or sheets, including one or more of the following: herb leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, puffed tobacco, and homogenized tobacco.

[0015] The aerosol-forming substrate may contain solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid, gel, or paste.

[0016] The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded within a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of a powder, granules, pellets, fragments, yarn, strips, or sheets. A solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the surface of a carrier, for example, in the form of a sheet, foam, gel, or slurry. The aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the entire surface of the carrier, or alternatively, in a certain pattern to provide non-uniform flavor delivery during use.

[0017] The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain plant-derived materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized plant-derived materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco-containing materials. The tobacco-containing materials may contain volatile tobacco-flavoring compounds. These compounds may be released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and components such as flavoring agents.

[0018] The aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "homogenized tobacco material" refers to material formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco.

[0019] The aerosol-forming substrate may include an aggregate of sheets of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term “sheet” refers to a layered element having a width and length substantially greater than its thickness. As used herein, the term “gathered” is used to describe a sheet that is rolled up, folded, or otherwise compressed or shrunk substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0020] The aerosol-forming substrate may include an aerosol-forming compound. As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming compound” is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates aerosol formation during use and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Suitable aerosol-forming compounds are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (e.g., propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (e.g., glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids (e.g., dimethyl dodecanediate, dimethyl tetradecanediate). Preferred aerosol-forming compounds are polyhydric alcohols (e.g., propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and most preferably glycerin) or mixtures thereof.

[0021] The aerosol-forming substrate may contain a single aerosol-forming agent. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may contain glycerin as the sole aerosol-forming agent, or propylene glycol as the sole aerosol-forming agent. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may contain a combination of two or more aerosol-forming agents. For example, the aerosol-forming agent components of the aerosol-forming substrate may be glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0022] As used herein, the terms “aerosol generating article” or “consumable” refer to an article containing or consisting of an aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol generating article or consumable may include components in addition to the aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol generating article or consumable may be a smoking article. An aerosol generating article or consumable may generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. An aerosol generating article or consumable may be a smoking article that generates a nicotine-containing aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. An aerosol generating article or consumable may be in the form of a rod.

[0023] As used herein, the term “cartridge” refers to a component that can be removably received by an aerosol generator. A cartridge contains an aerosol-forming substrate, or arranges or contains an aerosol-generating article or consumable consisting of an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0024] As used herein, the term “susceptor cartridge” refers to a cartridge containing a susceptor for heating an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0025] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating device can interact with an aerosol generating article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate, or with a cartridge that holds the aerosol-forming substrate or the aerosol generating article, to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating device can heat the aerosol-forming substrate to facilitate the release of volatile compounds from the substrate. The aerosol generating device may be an electrically operated aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include an atomizer, such as an electric heater, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol. The aerosol generating device includes a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating article or the cartridge. The aerosol generating device preferably includes an inductor for generating a variable electromagnetic field within the cavity.

[0026] As used herein, the terms "axial direction" and "longitudinal axis direction" are used to describe the direction between the downstream, proximal or mouth-side end of a component, such as an aerosol generating device, a cartridge or an aerosol generating article, and the opposing upstream or distal end of the component.

[0027] As used herein, the terms "radial direction" and "transverse direction" are used to describe a direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis direction.

[0028] As used herein, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum longitudinal dimension between the distal or upstream end of a component, such as an aerosol generating device, a cartridge or an aerosol generating article, and the opposing upstream or distal end of the component.

[0029] As used herein, the term "width" is used to describe the transverse dimension of a component, such as an aerosol generating device, a cartridge, or an aerosol generating article.

[0030] As used herein, the term "diameter" is used to describe the maximum transverse dimension of a component such as an aerosol generating device, a cartridge, or an aerosol generating article.

[0031] At least a portion of the side wall of the cavity is preferably formed from a radially porous material. The ability to allow for a radial inflow of air into the cavity enables the use of consumables of different configurations with the device.

[0032] The side wall may have a longitudinal dimension that extends away from the opening of the cavity. 50% to 100% of the longitudinal dimension of the side wall may be formed from a radially porous material. Substantially all of the side wall may be formed from a radially porous material. The radially porous material may be in the form of a mesh or net. The radially porous material is preferably in the form of a tube, for example, a raised tube, for example, a raised tubular polymer mesh. The radial porosity may be formed by holes defined through a portion of the side wall.

[0033] The side wall may have a total porosity of 40% to 95%, preferably 50% to 90%, preferably 60% to 80%.

[0034] The cavity of the device may be substantially cylindrical, for example, substantially circular cylinder. The side walls of the cavity may be substantially tubular. Thus, the cavity may be able to accommodate a substantially cylindrical aerosol generating article or a substantially cylindrical cartridge. The cross section of the cavity may be substantially circular, but other cross sections are also possible, for example, elliptical, or polygonal shapes such as square, rectangular, or hexagonal. The cavity of the device may have a length of 20 mm to 100 mm. The cavity may have a length of, for example, at least 20, 30, 40, or 50 mm. The cavity may have a length of less than 100, 80, or 60 mm. The cavity may have a width of 3 mm to 30 mm. The cavity may have a width of at least 3, 5, or 10 mm. The cavity may have a width of less than 30, 20, or 15 mm.

[0035] The aerosol generator may include a housing, and the cavity is either positioned by the housing or located within the housing. Preferably, one or more air intakes are defined within the housing to allow airflow paths into the cavity. Preferably, one or more airflow paths extend from one or more air intakes to the outer surface of the side walls of the cavity, thus allowing radial airflow into the cavity. The housing may include side walls.

[0036] The apparatus may include a cavity base for supporting an aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate when received in the cavity. The cavity base may be disposed to be movable along its longitudinal axis within the side wall of the cavity. For example, the cavity base may be analogous to a plunger or piston disposed to move along its longitudinal axis within the cavity. The cavity base may be movable along its longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position, in which case the cavity base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position. Thus, the movement of the cavity base within the cavity may facilitate the removal of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge received in the cavity by allowing the article or cartridge to be at least partially pushed out from the opening of the cavity. The housing may include the cavity base.

[0037] The cavity base may be biased by a biasing element. For example, the cavity base may be biased by a spring. The biasing element or spring can bias the cavity base toward the opening of the cavity. Such biasing elements can help facilitate the movement of the base and the withdrawal of the aerosol-generating article or cartridge from the cavity.

[0038] The aerosol generator may be equipped with a latch or latching mechanism for detachably holding the cavity base in a first position. The aerosol generator may be equipped with a latch or latching mechanism for detachably holding the cavity base in a second position. Thus, when latched, the cavity base may be stable in one or both of its first and second positions, and may be able to move from that position when the latch is released.

[0039] The first position of the cavity base may be defined by a stopper that acts to prevent further movement of the cavity base toward the cavity opening. For example, the stopper may include a ledge defined by or within the side wall, or a projection extending radially from the side wall.

[0040] The sidewalls of the cavity may have a proximal end toward the cavity opening and a distal end. The distal end of the sidewall may be terminated with an end face or cap. The cavity base may be located proximal to the end face or cap. The hole may be defined through the end face or cap.

[0041] The sidewall may be integrated with the housing of the device. The sidewall may be connected to the housing of the device. The sidewall may be detachably or permanently connected to the housing of the device.

[0042] The cavity base may have a first surface facing the cavity opening and a second surface facing away from the cavity opening. The second surface may be connected to or coupled to a push rod, which extends away from the second surface. The push rod may be dimensioned to extend through an end face or a hole in the cap. Thus, movement of the cavity base may be caused by acting on the push rod. The push rod may protrude from the body of the aerosol generator when an aerosol-forming substrate, or an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, or a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating article or aerosol-forming substrate is positioned within the cavity. The cavity base and the push rod may form a manually operated ejector to facilitate the removal of the aerosol-forming substrate, aerosol-generating article, or cartridge from the cavity.

[0043] The aerosol generator may further include a removable mouthpiece, which is removablely attached to the aerosol generator in a position covering the opening of the cavity. The removable mouthpiece may be removed to allow the insertion of an aerosol generating article or cartridge into the device. Alternatively, the aerosol generating article or cartridge may include a mouthpiece.

[0044] Preferably, the aerosol generator is configured to receive an aerosol generating article or cartridge which includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate by interacting with a fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by at least one induction coil. The at least one induction coil may be adjacent to the cavity. The at least one induction coil may radially surround a portion of the cavity.

[0045] The aerosol generator may include an inductor such as an induction coil and a power supply. The power supply may be configured to pass an alternating current through the inductor so that the inductor generates a fluctuating or oscillating electromagnetic field. The alternating current may have any suitable frequency. The alternating current may be a high-frequency alternating current. The alternating current may have a frequency of 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). If the inductor is a tubular inductor coil, the alternating current may have a frequency of 500 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). If the inductor is a flat inductor coil, the alternating current may have a frequency of 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 1 megahertz (MHz).

[0046] The aerosol generator may include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, both of which are arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field within the cavity during operation. The first induction coil may be arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field within a first portion of the cavity, and the second induction coil may be arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field within a second portion of the cavity. Thus, the first and second induction coils may be arranged to heat a susceptor or a portion of a plurality of susceptors located in different portions of the cavity.

[0047] The first induction coil may be configured to generate a first fluctuating magnetic field in the cavity, the first fluctuating magnetic field having first magnetic field characteristics, and the second induction coil may be configured to generate a second fluctuating magnetic field in the cavity, the second fluctuating magnetic field having second magnetic field characteristics, which are different from the first magnetic field characteristics. The device may be configured to control the first and second induction coils to provide control over the heating of the susceptor in the cavity, or to enable the device to operate with different types of susceptors placed in the cavity. For example, the device may be configured to heat a first type of susceptor placed in an aerosol generating article and a second type of susceptor placed in a removable cartridge, both of which are sized to be received in the cavity. By using two or more induction coils, the device can heat susceptors of different sizes and shapes, e.g., both rod or blade-shaped susceptors and tubular susceptors. Thus, the aerosol generator can be configured to be used with a wider variety of consumables, providing the user with more options.

[0048] The aerosol generator preferably includes at least one power source, for example, a power source for supplying power to at least one induction coil of the device. The device preferably includes at least one controller, for example, a controller configured to control the power supply to at least one induction coil.

[0049] The aerosol generator may include a detector or detection means for detecting the presence of an aerosol-forming substrate, a cartridge, or an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate within a cavity.

[0050] The apparatus may be configured to operate with a first type of aerosol generating article or cartridge and a second type of aerosol generating article or cartridge that is different from the first type of aerosol generating article or cartridge, the first type of aerosol generating article or cartridge comprising an aerosol forming substrate and a first susceptor configuration for heating the aerosol forming substrate, and the second type of aerosol generating article or cartridge comprising an aerosol forming substrate and a second susceptor configuration for heating the aerosol forming substrate. The first and second susceptor configurations may differ in one or more susceptor parameters selected from a list consisting of susceptor material, susceptor shape, susceptor dimensions, and susceptor position relative to the aerosol forming substrate.

[0051] The device may be configured to detect whether a first type of aerosol-generating article or a second type of aerosol-generating article has been received into the cavity. The device may be configured to control at least one induction coil to generate a fluctuating magnetic field suitable for heating the susceptor of that type of aerosol-generating article.

[0052] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generator comprises the aerosol generator as defined above and an aerosol generating article or cartridge configured to be received in a cavity of the aerosol generator, wherein the aerosol generating article or cartridge is

[0053] An aerosol generation system is provided, which includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate when connected to a fluctuating magnetic field generated by an induction coil of an aerosol generator.

[0054] The susceptor may be, or may include, any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferred susceptor materials may be heated to temperatures above 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400 degrees Celsius. Preferred susceptor materials may include metals suitable for coupling with fluctuating electromagnetic fields. Preferred susceptor materials may include ferromagnetic materials, such as ferrite iron, or ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel, or nickel, or cobalt. Preferred susceptor materials may include, or may be formed from, 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, or grade 420, or grade 430 stainless steel. Different materials dissipate different amounts of energy when placed in an electromagnetic field having similar values ​​of frequency and electric field strength. Thus, parameters of the susceptor material, such as the type of material and size, may be modified to provide the desired power dissipation in known electromagnetic fields.

[0055] The aerosol generating article or cartridge may be in the form of a rod having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the rod being sized to be received within a cavity of the aerosol generating device, and the aerosol forming substrate being placed inside the rod.

[0056] One or more susceptors are positioned internally within the rod to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, one or more susceptors may be positioned radially centrally within the rod, or one or more susceptors may be positioned radially outward on the rod. One or more susceptors may surround a portion of the rod. The outer layer of the rod may include one or more susceptors. One or more susceptors may be positioned in contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. One or more susceptors may be components of a disposable aerosol-generating article, such as an aerosol generator cavity, or an aerosol-generating article sized to be received in a reusable cartridge sized to be received in an aerosol generator cavity.

[0057] An aerosol-generating article or cartridge may define an airflow path extending between its distal end and its proximal end. At least a portion of the airflow path through the article may define an airflow path extending between a radial air intake located between the distal end and the proximal end of the article or cartridge and an air outlet at the distal end of the article or cartridge. Air may flow into the radial air inlet of the article or cartridge through the air-permeable walls of the aerosol-generating device cavity.

[0058] Aerosol-generating articles or cartridges suitable for use with the system may be elongated aerosol-generating articles containing an aerosol-forming substrate placed within a housing or wrapper, where one or more holes or porous regions defined through the housing or wrapper allow for radial airflow into the aerosol-generating article.

[0059] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate, for example, an aerosol-forming substrate made of or containing tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may also be a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, for example, an aerosol-forming substrate containing glycerin or propylene glycol, or may contain such a substrate.

[0060] Aerosol generating articles suitable for use with a system may be disposable aerosol generating articles configured to be discarded after a single use. An aerosol generating article may comprise multiple components, including an aerosol-forming substrate assembled in the form of a rod within a wrapper. An aerosol generating article may also comprise a susceptor located within the wrapper. The wrapper of the aerosol generating article may include or consist of a susceptor.

[0061] Aerosol-generating articles or cartridge elements suitable for use with the system may include reusable and disposable parts. The reusable part may be in the form of a cartridge configured to receive within a cavity. The cartridge may include a susceptor material and have a housing that defines a cartridge cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The disposable part may be an article or consumable containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge cavity may be configured to receive one or more separate consumables.

[0062] The reusable portion or cartridge may have longitudinal and radial dimensions, and one or more holes or porous areas may be defined through the walls of the housing to form one or more radial air intakes into the cartridge cavity.

[0063] The cartridge housing may define an axial air intake. The axial air intake may allow air to flow axially into the housing. The housing may define an air outlet. The air outlet may be downstream of the axial air intake. The air outlet may be an axial air outlet. The air outlet may allow air to flow axially out of the housing. The housing may define a first airflow path from the axial air intake to the air outlet. Advantageously, the axial air intake and axial air outlet may allow the cartridge to be used with consumables configured to have axial airflow through them, such as consumables having an impermeable barrier around their periphery but a permeable barrier at their axial end, or having no barrier at all.

[0064] The cartridge housing may have a proximal or downstream end and a distal or upstream end. The housing may be a partially or completely hollow tube, or may include one. The tube may be defined between the proximal or downstream end and the distal or upstream end. The tube may define a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0065] The cartridge cavity may be suitable for receiving one or more consumables. As mentioned above, the term “consumable” may refer to an article containing or consisting of an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity may be suitable for receiving multiple consumables. Advantageously, the ability to hold multiple consumables may allow users to customize their experience by using multiple consumables with different flavors.

[0066] Each consumable may have an axial length between its upstream and downstream ends. Each consumable may have a diameter in the transverse direction. A cartridge cavity may be suitable for receiving multiple consumables such that the consumables are axially arranged within the cavity. The cavity may be suitable for receiving multiple consumables such that the upstream end of a first consumable received within the cavity is positioned adjacent to and optionally in contact with the downstream end of a second consumable received within the cavity. Furthermore, the upstream end of the second consumable received within the cavity may be positioned adjacent to and optionally in contact with the downstream end of a third consumable received within the cavity. The cavity may be suitable for receiving multiple consumables such that the first consumable received within the cavity is located entirely downstream of the second consumable received within the cavity. Furthermore, the second consumable received within the cavity may be located entirely downstream of the third consumable received within the cavity. Advantageously, this arrangement within the cavity allows users to customize their experience by using different sequences of consumables with different flavors within the cavity.

[0067] The cavity may be configured to securely hold one or more consumables received within it. For example, the cavity may be sized to securely hold one or more consumables received within it using an interference fit or friction fit. Advantageously, this may eliminate the need for a separate mechanism to securely hold the consumables within the cavity.

[0068] The cartridge housing may define a first radial air intake. The first radial air intake may be located upstream of the air outlet. The first radial air intake may be located downstream of the axial air intake. A second airflow path may be defined from the first radial air intake to the air outlet. The first radial air intake may allow air to flow radially into the housing.

[0069] The cartridge housing may define a second radial air intake. The second radial air intake may be located upstream of the air outlet. The second air intake may be axially separated from the first radial air intake along the housing. The second radial air intake may be located downstream of the first radial air intake. A third airflow path may be defined from the second radial air intake to the air outlet. The second radial air intake may allow air to flow radially into the housing.

[0070] The cartridge housing may define a third radial air intake. The third radial air intake may be located upstream of the air outlet. The third radial air intake may be spaced apart from the first and second radial air intakes along the housing. The third radial air intake may be located downstream of the second radial air intake. A fourth airflow path may be defined from the third radial air intake to the air outlet. The third radial air intake may allow air to flow radially into the housing.

[0071] A first radial air intake may be positioned to align with a first consumable received within the cavity. During use, air may flow through the first radial air intake and then through the first consumable, for example, the permeable outer or peripheral portion of the first consumable. The air may then flow axially through the housing. If a second consumable is received within the cavity, the air may flow through the first consumable and then axially through the second consumable. If a third consumable is also received within the cavity, the air may flow through the second consumable and then axially through the third consumable.

[0072] A second radial air intake may be positioned to align with a second consumable received within the cavity. During use, air may flow through the second radial air intake and then through the second consumable, for example, the permeable outer or peripheral portion of the second consumable. The air may then flow axially through the housing. If a third consumable is also received within the cavity, the air may flow through the second consumable and then axially through the third consumable.

[0073] A third radial air intake may be positioned to align with a third consumable received within the cavity. During use, air may flow through the third radial air intake and then through the third consumable, for example, the permeable outer or peripheral portion of the third consumable. The air may then flow axially through the housing.

[0074] Advantageously, using radial air intakes in this configuration can enhance the user experience because fresh air can flow through each of the consumables. In contrast, if only axial air intakes are present, the air flowing through the second consumable may not be fresh because it has already flowed through the first consumable. In this context, the term "fresh air" is used to refer to air that has not yet flowed through the consumables.

[0075] The cartridge housing may define both an axial air intake and one or more radial air intakes. For example, the housing may define an axial air intake and any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air intakes. Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air intakes may be located downstream of the axial air intake. The air outlet may be located downstream of the axial air intake and the radial air intake(s). The airflow path from the axial air intake to the air outlet may merge with any one, two, or all of the airflow paths from the first, second, or third air intake to the air outlet. Advantageously, the inclusion of axial and radial air intakes may reduce cartridge withdrawal resistance by allowing a larger airflow within the housing. Advantageously, this may also allow the cartridge to be used with a wider variety of consumables. This is because the cartridge can be used for consumables intended for axial airflow through it, and consumables intended for radial airflow through it.

[0076] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air intakes may be formed by an air-permeable portion of the cartridge housing. Therefore, the first radial air intake may be formed by the first air-permeable portion of the housing. The second radial air intake may be formed by the second air-permeable portion of the housing. The third air intake may be formed by the third air-permeable portion of the housing.

[0077] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third air-permeable portions of the housing may include one or more porous materials and multiple holes, such as multiple slits.

[0078] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third air permeable portions of the housing may have porosities of 40%–95%, 50%–90%, or 60%–80%. In this context, the term “porosity” can be used as a measure of the area of ​​free space through the walls of the housing. Thus, if the air permeable portion includes multiple holes surrounded by solid material, the percentage of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air permeable portion formed by the holes may be 40%–95%, 50%–90%, or 60%–80% (the remaining 60%–5%, or 50%–10%, or 40%–20% being formed by solid material). Advantageously, these porosity ranges can provide optimal coverage in many factors, including allowing an appropriate amount of air to flow through the cartridge, allowing an appropriate level of heating of the housing susceptor material near the air permeable portion, providing optimal draw resistance through the cartridge, and maintaining the structural integrity of the housing.

[0079] The first air permeable portion may include a first annular or substantially annular air permeable band within the housing. The first annular air permeable band may include a first plurality of holes within the housing.

[0080] The second air permeable portion may include a second annular or substantially annular air permeable band within the housing. The second annular air permeable band may include a second plurality of holes within the housing. The second annular air permeable band may be spaced apart from the first annular air permeable band along the housing.

[0081] The third air permeable portion may include a third annular or substantially tubular air permeable band within the housing. The third annular air permeable band may include a third number of holes within the housing. The third annular air permeable band may be separated from the first and second annular air permeable bands.

[0082] The first air permeable band may have a first permeability through which air flows. The second air permeable band may have a second permeability through which air flows. The third air permeable band may have a third permeability through which air flows. The first permeability may be different from the second permeability. The first permeability may be different from the third permeability. The second permeability may be different from the third permeability. The first air permeable band, the second air permeable band, and the third air permeable band may all have different permeability.

[0083] Advantageously, these different permeability levels may allow users to customize their experience by deciding where to place consumables within the cartridge based on the expected airflow through the air permeability bands. For example, if a user wishes to maximize the flavor present in a particular consumable, that consumable may be received within the cavity so as to align with the air permeability band with the highest permeability.

[0084] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third annular air permeable bands of the housing may extend around at least 50, 60, 70, 80, or 90 percent of the housing's perimeter. Therefore, naturally, the annular air permeable bands may extend around the housing's perimeter or the entire perimeter, but do not necessarily have to.

[0085] The cartridge may be a susceptor cartridge usable with an aerosol generator configured to inductively heat the susceptor material of the cartridge, for example, the aerosol generator described above. For example, the cartridge may be configured to be used with an aerosol generator that includes an inductor, such as an inductor coil. The aerosol generator may include a power supply. The power supply may be configured to pass an alternating current through the inductor so that the inductor generates a fluctuating electromagnetic field. The device may be configured so that the cartridge can be placed in the fluctuating electromagnetic field. The alternating current may be a high-frequency alternating current. This can then generate eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the susceptor material. This can heat the susceptor material. Therefore, the power supply and the inductor may be configured to inductively heat the susceptor material.

[0086] The susceptor material may constitute more than 50, 60, 70, or 80% by weight of the housing. The housing may consist of or be formed from the susceptor material. Advantageously, a higher proportion of the housing formed from the susceptor material can result in greater induction heating of the housing in an induction-heated aerosol generation system.

[0087] The susceptor material may come into contact with the consumable or aerosol-forming substrate within the cavity during use. Advantageously, this may result in more efficient heat transfer from the susceptor material to the consumable or aerosol-forming substrate during use.

[0088] The cartridge cavity may have a length of 20 mm to 100 mm. The cavity may have a length of at least 20, 30, 40, or 50 mm. The cavity may have a length of less than 100, 80, or 60 mm. The cavity may have a width of 3 mm to 30 mm. The cavity may have a width of at least 3, 5, or 10 mm. The cavity may have a width of less than 30, 20, or 15 mm. The cavity may be substantially cylindrical, for example, substantially right cylindrical. The cavity may have a circular cross section, or an elliptical cross section, or a polygonal cross section.

[0089] The cartridge may include a reusable mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may contain or be formed from polymer or ceramic. Advantageously, reusable cartridges may be more environmentally friendly than disposable cartridges.

[0090] The airflow path may be defined through the mouthpiece. During use, air may flow into or out of the cartridge through the cartridge housing and then into or out of the user through the mouthpiece.

[0091] This disclosure may provide a method for generating an aerosol using the aerosol generator or aerosol generating system described above. The method may include the steps of: placing an aerosol generating article or cartridge, including an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor, into a cavity of the aerosol generator; and operating at least one induction coil of the aerosol generator to generate a fluctuating magnetic field in the cavity of the device, wherein the fluctuating magnetic field is connected to the susceptor and operates the susceptor to heat the susceptor to an operating temperature, thereby heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol. The method may further include the step of inhaling the aerosol by sucking through a mouthpiece that is in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0092] When a user inhales a mouthpiece, which may be the mouthpiece of an aerosol generating article, a cartridge mouthpiece, or a mouthpiece of an aerosol generator, depending on the configuration, air is drawn into the aerosol generator and into the device's cavity, preferably through an air intake defined in the device's housing. In a preferred configuration, air is drawn into the device's cavity through an air-permeable region in the side wall of the cavity. The air then passes towards the user's mouth, entrained with volatile compounds, across a heated aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol is formed in the airflow and inhaled by the user.

[0093] The method may include a further step of discharging the aerosol generating article or cartridge from the aerosol generating device after use.

[0094] The cavity of the device may include a cavity base that is movable along its longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position, in which case the cavity base is positioned closer to the cavity opening than in the second position. The method may then include the steps of inserting an aerosol-generating article into the cavity until it contacts the cavity base, applying pressure to move the cavity base from the first position to the second position, where the second position is the operating position, and holding the cavity base in the second position during aerosol generation. The method may then include the step of discharging the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol generator by moving the cavity base from the second position to the first position, where the first position is the discharge position, thereby moving the aerosol-generating article toward the cavity opening.

[0095] This disclosure includes the following numbered embodiments.

[0096] Example 1 An aerosol generating device for generating aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate, A cavity having an opening for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate, A cavity is defined by a side wall that extends away from the opening, It comprises at least one induction coil positioned outside the cavity and arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field inside the cavity when in operation, The side walls of the cavity are formed from a non-magnetic material. An aerosol generator in which the side walls of a cavity are permeable to air, thereby allowing radial air to flow into the cavity through the side walls. Example 2 An aerosol generator according to Example 1, in which the side walls of the cavity are formed from a non-susceptor material. Example 3 An aerosol generator according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the side walls of the cavity are formed from a polymer material. Example 4 An aerosol generator according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the side walls are formed from a ceramic or glass material. Example 5: An aerosol generator according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the side walls are formed from a composite material, such as a polymer matrix composite material. Example 6 The side walls of the cavity are formed from a non-magnetic metallic material in the aerosol generator according to Example 1. Example 7 An aerosol generator according to Example 6, wherein the side walls of the cavity are formed from a metal selected from a list consisting of aluminum, aluminum alloy, brass, copper, copper alloy, and non-ferromagnetic stainless steel. Example 8 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 7, wherein at least a portion of the side wall is formed from a radially porous material. Example 9 An aerosol generator according to Example 8, wherein the side walls have a longitudinal dimension that extends away from the opening of the cavity, and 50% to 100% of the longitudinal dimension of the side walls are formed from a radially porous material. Example 10 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the side walls are substantially all formed from a radially porous material. Example 11. Aerosol generator according to any of Examples 8-10, wherein the radially porous material is a mesh or net. Example 12 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the side walls have a total porosity of 40% to 95%, preferably 50% to 90%, and preferably 60% to 80%. Example 13 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the cavity is substantially cylindrical. Example 14 Aerosol generators according to Examples 1-13, in which the side walls are substantially tubular. Example 15 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the cross section of the cavity is substantially circular. Example 16 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 15, comprising a cavity base for supporting an aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate when received within the cavity. Example 17 The aerosol generator according to Embodiment 16, wherein the cavity base is arranged to be movable in the longitudinal direction within the side wall of the cavity. Example 18 An aerosol generator according to Example 17, wherein the cavity base is movable along its longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position, and in the first position, the cavity base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position. Example 19 The cavity base is biased by a spring, an aerosol generator according to any of Examples 16 to 18. Example 20 The cavity base is biased toward the opening by a spring in the aerosol generator according to Example 19. Example 21 The apparatus is an aerosol generator according to any of Examples 18 to 20, comprising a latch for releasably holding the cavity base in a second position. Example 22 The apparatus is an aerosol generator according to any of Examples 18 to 21, comprising a latch for releasably holding the cavity base in a first position. Example 23 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 18 to 22, wherein the first position is defined by a stopper, which acts to prevent the cavity base from moving further toward the cavity opening. Example 24 The aerosol generator according to Example 23, wherein the stopping section includes a ledge defined by a side wall, or a projection extending radially from a side wall. Example 25 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the side wall has a proximal end and a distal end facing the opening of the cavity, and the distal end of the side wall is terminated with an end face or a cap. Example 26 An aerosol generator according to Example 25, in which the hole is defined through the end face or cap. Example 27 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 16 to 26, wherein the cavity base has a first surface facing the cavity opening and a second surface facing away from the cavity opening, the second surface being connected to or coupled to a push rod, the push rod extending away from the second surface. Example 28 An aerosol generator according to Example 27, when the end face or cap hole is dimensioned to allow a push rod to extend through it, as in Example 26. Example 29 An aerosol generator according to Example 28, wherein the push rod protrudes from the body of the device when an aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate is positioned within the cavity. Example 30 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 27-29, wherein the cavity base and push rod form a manually operable ejector to facilitate the removal of the aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity. Example 31 An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 30, configured to receive an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate by interacting with a fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by an induction coil. Example 32 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 31, further comprising a removable mouthpiece, the removable mouthpiece being removablely attachable to the aerosol generator in a position covering the opening of the cavity. Example 33 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 32, wherein at least one induction coil radially surrounds a portion of the cavity. Example 34 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 33, comprising a first induction coil and a second induction coil, both of which are arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field within a cavity when in operation. Example 35 An aerosol generator according to Embodiment 34, wherein a first induction coil is arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field within a first portion of the cavity, and a second induction coil is arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field within a second portion of the cavity. Example 36 An aerosol generator according to Example 34 or 35, wherein a first induction coil is configured to generate a first fluctuating magnetic field in a cavity, and the first fluctuating magnetic field has first magnetic field characteristics, and a second induction coil is configured to generate a second fluctuating magnetic field in a cavity, and the second fluctuating magnetic field has second magnetic field characteristics, which are different from those of the first magnetic field. Example 37 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 36, further comprising a power supply for supplying power to at least one induction coil. Example 38 Aerosol generator according to Examples 1 to 37, further comprising a controller configured to control the power supply to at least one induction coil. Example 39 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 38, comprising a detector for detecting the presence of an aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate within a cavity. Example 40 An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 39, wherein the apparatus is configured to operate with a first type of aerosol generating article and a second type of aerosol generating article different from the first type of aerosol generating article, the first type of aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate and a first susceptor configuration for heating the aerosol forming substrate, and the second type of aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate and a second susceptor configuration for heating the aerosol forming substrate. Example 41 An aerosol generator according to Example 40, wherein the first susceptor configuration and the second susceptor configuration differ in one or more susceptor parameters selected from a list consisting of susceptor material, susceptor shape, susceptor dimensions, and susceptor position relative to an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 42 An aerosol generator according to Example 41, the device is configured to detect whether a first type of aerosol generating article or a second type of aerosol generating article has been received into the cavity, and controls at least one induction coil to generate a fluctuating magnetic field suitable for heating the susceptor of that type of aerosol generating article. Example 43 An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device defined in any of Examples 1 to 42 and an aerosol generating article configured to be received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating article is An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate when connected to a fluctuating magnetic field generated by an induction coil of an aerosol generator. Example 44 The aerosol generating article is in the form of a rod having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the rod being sized to be received within a cavity of the aerosol generating device, and the aerosol forming substrate is placed inside the rod, in the aerosol generating system according to Example 43. Example 45 An aerosol generating system according to Example 44, wherein one or more susceptors are positioned internally within a rod to heat an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 46 An aerosol generating system according to Example 45, in which one or more susceptors are positioned radially centered within the rod. Example 47 An aerosol generating system according to Example 44, in which one or more susceptors are positioned radially outward from the rod. Example 48 An aerosol generating system according to Example 45 or 46, in which one or more susceptors surround a portion of the rod. Example 49 The outer layer of the rod comprises one or more susceptors, an aerosol generation system according to any of Examples 45-48. Example 50 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 45 to 49, wherein one or more susceptors are positioned in contact with an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 51 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 50, wherein the aerosol generating article defines an airflow path extending between the distal end and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. Example 52 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 51, wherein at least a portion of the airflow path through the article extends between a radial air intake located between the distal end and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article and an air outlet at the distal end of the aerosol generating article. Example 53 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 52, wherein the aerosol generating article is an elongated aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate placed within a housing or wrapper, and one or more holes or porous regions defined through the housing or wrapper allow for radial airflow into the aerosol generating article. Example 54 An aerosol generation system according to any of Examples 43 to 53, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, for example, made of or containing tobacco material. Example 55 The aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 54 includes an aerosol-forming substrate, which is a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, such as an aerosol-forming substrate containing glycerin or propylene glycol. Example 56 An aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 55, wherein the aerosol generating article is a disposable aerosol generating article configured to be discarded after a single use. Example 57 An aerosol generating system according to Example 56, comprising a plurality of components including an aerosol-forming substrate assembled in the form of a rod within a wrapper, wherein the aerosol generating article is an aerosol generating system. Example 58 The aerosol generating article comprises a susceptor placed inside a wrapper, as per the aerosol generating system of Example 57. Example 59 An aerosol generating system according to Example 57, wherein the wrapper may include or consist of a susceptor. Example 60 An aerosol generating article comprises a reusable portion and a disposable portion, the reusable portion being in the form of a cartridge configured to receive a cavity, the cartridge having a housing containing a susceptor material and defining a cartridge cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate, and the disposable portion containing an aerosol-forming substrate, an aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 55. Example 61 An aerosol generating system according to Example 60, wherein the cartridge has longitudinal and radial dimensions, and one or more holes or porous areas are defined through the walls of the housing to form one or more radial air intakes into the cartridge cavity. Example 62 An aerosol generating article configured for use with an aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 42. Example 63 An aerosol generating article for use in an aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 61. Example 64 A method for generating an aerosol using an aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 42, or an aerosol generating system according to any of Examples 43 to 61, A step of placing an aerosol generating article, including an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor, into the cavity of an aerosol generating device, A method comprising the steps of operating at least one induction coil of an aerosol generator to generate a fluctuating magnetic field in a cavity, wherein the fluctuating magnetic field is connected to a susceptor, which heats the susceptor to an operating temperature, thereby heating an aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol. Example 65 The method according to Example 64 further includes the step of inhaling an aerosol by sucking on a mouthpiece that is in fluid communication with an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 66 The method according to Example 64 or 65, further comprising the step of discharging the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol generator after use. Example 67 The cavity includes a cavity base that is movable along its longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the cavity base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position, and the method, according to either Example 64 or 65, includes the steps of: inserting an aerosol-generating article into the cavity until it contacts the cavity base; applying pressure to move the cavity base from the first position to the second position, where the second position is the working position; and holding the cavity base in the second position during aerosol generation. Example 68 A method according to Example 67, comprising the step of discharging an aerosol generating article from an aerosol generating device by moving the base of the cavity from a second position to a first position, wherein the first position is a discharge position, and thereby the aerosol generating article moves toward the cavity opening. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0097] Here, we will further describe a specific embodiment with reference to the figures.

[0098] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the aerosol generator according to this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a cross-section of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a flowchart illustrating the relationships between the electronic components of an aerosol generator. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of a mesh configuration used to form an air-permeable cavity in an aerosol generator. [Figure 5] Figures 5, 6, and 7 show the insertion of an aerosol generating article into the cavity of the aerosol generator and the removal of the aerosol generating article. [Figure 6] Same as above. [Figure 7] Same as above. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the cavity of a device engaged with a disposable aerosol generating article equipped with an internal susceptor. [Figure 9]Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the cavity of a device engaged with a partially reusable aerosol generating article equipped with a susceptor cartridge. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generator with a removable mouthpiece attached. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0099] Figure 1 shows an aerosol generator according to a particular embodiment of the present invention. The device 10 comprises a housing 20 for housing a battery power supply, electronic equipment including a first induction coil, a second induction coil, a controller for controlling the power from the battery to the first and second induction coils, and a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. An activation button 30 is located on the housing 20. The opening to the cavity is closed by an openable cover 40.

[0100] Figure 2 is a cutaway view of the aerosol generator 10 of Figure 1. The battery 110 is located within the first part of the housing together with the electronic equipment 120. The electronic equipment 120 includes an electronic device 126 for controlling the charging of the battery 110, a controller 125 for controlling the power supplied to the first and second induction coils, and electrical connections between the battery 110, the induction coils, the activation button 30 and charging means such as a charging port 95 defined through the housing.

[0101] The cavity 200 is located within the second part of the cavity. The cavity 200 is defined by a polypropylene mesh tube 210 having an opening 220 extending through the housing 20, allowing for the insertion and removal of an aerosol-forming substrate into the cavity. An openable cover 40 can be opened by a sliding motion to expose the opening 220. The polypropylene mesh tube 210 forms the side walls of the cavity. An air intake defined through the housing allows air to enter the second part of the housing. The side walls of the cavity have a porosity of over 80%, effectively allowing for unobstructed radial airflow into the cavity.

[0102] The upper part of the tube 210 is surrounded by a first induction coil 250. The first induction coil 250 is connected to the battery 110 via a controller and is configured to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field in the upper part of the cavity 200.

[0103] The lower part of the tube 210 is surrounded by a second induction coil 260. The first induction coil 250 is connected to the battery 110 via a controller and is configured to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field in the lower part of the cavity 200.

[0104] The cavity base 280 is located at the lower end of the cavity 200. The cavity base 280 is positioned to slide along its longitudinal axis within the pipe 210. The lower part of the cavity base is connected to a push rod 290, which extends through a hole defined through the housing, allowing the user to operate and move the cavity base within the cavity. The cavity base and the push rod form part of the drawer mechanism.

[0105] Figure 3 schematically shows the arrangement of the electrical components of the aerosol generator. Battery 110 is a rechargeable battery connected to a charging port 95 via electronic equipment 126 to control the charging of the battery. The charging port 95 may be any suitable charging port, such as a USB charging port. Battery 110 powers and operates the first induction coil 250 and the second induction coil 260. Power from battery 110 is supplied to the first and second induction coils via controller 125. The control electronic equipment includes an inverter that converts the DC current supplied by the battery to AC current for supplying power to the first and second induction coils. The first and second induction coils may operate independently or together. Controller 125 controls the operation of the first and second induction coils in response to activation signals provided by user button 30. Memory may store one or more predetermined operation profiles to be performed by the controller in response to signals from the activation button 30.

[0106] During use, the user exposes the opening 220 of the cavity 200 by sliding the cover 40 to its open position. The aerosol generating article, comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor, is inserted into the cavity 200. The aerosol generating article may be in the form of a completely disposable cylindrical aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor positioned in thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating article may be in the form of a cylindrical reusable cartridge containing a disposable aerosol-forming substrate. The reusable cartridge itself may form the susceptor.

[0107] The aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity 200 such that the article's susceptor is located within a portion of the cavity that is exposed to a fluctuating electromagnetic field when the device 10 is operated. The user operates the device 10 using the activation button 30. The controller controls the power to the induction coil to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field. The susceptor is heated by the fluctuating electromagnetic field, and then the aerosol-forming substrate is heated to generate an inhalable aerosol. The power supplied to the induction coil is controlled to maintain the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate within a predetermined range. When the usage session ends, the power supply to the induction coil is turned off. The user can then remove the aerosol-generating article from the cavity.

[0108] The side walls of the cavity are formed from an air-permeable tube 210 made of polypropylene mesh. The tube may be formed by taking a sheet of polypropylene mesh, rolling the sheet into a tube, and fixing the contact ends of the sheet, for example, by using a welding process or by adhesive. In other specific embodiments, the side walls of the cavity may be formed from a non-metallic metal mesh tube or an air-permeable ceramic tube. The metal tube may be formed, for example, by rolling a sheet of metal mesh into a tube and fixing the contact ends, for example, by welding. The ceramic tube may be formed by rolling a green ceramic mesh into a tube and firing it to form an air-permeable ceramic tube. Figure 4 shows a mesh configuration formed into a tube to form the side walls of the cavity. The air-permeable tube may also be formed by a powder forming process, for example, by sintering polymer, metal, or ceramic powder into an air-permeable tube.

[0109] Figures 5, 6, and 7 show the cavity base 280 and the drawer mechanism in more detail.

[0110] Figure 5 shows the cavity base 280 and the drawer mechanism positioned to receive the aerosol-generating article 300. The drawer base 280 is in the form of a plunger that is slidable along its longitudinal axis within an air-permeable tube 210 that forms the side wall of the cavity 200. The tube 210 is positioned by the housing 20. A spring 400 is positioned by the housing 20 and acts on the lower surface 281 of the cavity base 280, biasing the cavity base 280 toward the opening 220 of the cavity 200. The cavity base is biased toward an internal ledge 211 defined inward by the side wall 210 of the cavity. The internal ledge 211 prevents the cavity base 280 from moving further toward the opening 220 and defines the receiving position of the cavity base. The push rod 290 is connected to the lower surface 281 of the cavity base 280 and extends axially from the lower surface 281 through a hole in the housing 20, which is dimensioned to accommodate the cross-section of the push rod 290. When the cavity base is positioned in the receiving position, the end of the push rod 290 is coplanar with the outer surface of the housing.

[0111] When the user inserts the aerosol-generating article 300 into the cavity 200, the distal end of the article contacts the cavity base 280. By applying an insertion force (Fc), the distal end of the article pushes the cavity base into the cavity against the force of the spring 400. The elastic projection 500 extends into the lower part of the cavity (either positioned by the side wall of the cavity or by the housing adjacent to the distal end of the side wall). As the cavity base is pushed toward the base of the cavity by the insertion force, the elastic projection deflects, allowing the cavity base to pass through. The elastic projection then recovers its shape and latches the cavity base to the lower part of the cavity. The elastic projection holds the cavity base in this position against the force of the compressed spring 400. When the cavity base 280 is latched by the elastic projection 500, the cavity base 280 is in its operating position and the aerosol-generating article placed inside the cavity is heated. When the cavity base 280 is in the operating position (as shown in Figure 6), the push rod 290 extends through the opening of the housing.

[0112] To pull out the aerosol-generating article 300 after use, the user applies a pulling force (Fe) to the push rod 290. The pulling force must be sufficient to allow the cavity base 280 to deflect the elastic projection 500 and move along its longitudinal axis toward the opening 220 of the cavity 200. After the cavity base 280 has passed the elastic projection 500, the spring 400 biases the cavity base back to the receiving position positioned by the internal ledge 211. The movement of the cavity base 280 back to the receiving position allows the aerosol-generating article to be pulled out and removed from the opening 220.

[0113] Certain embodiments of the aerosol generator are intended to operate with different types of consumables. Two different types of consumables are shown as examples in Figures 8 and 9.

[0114] Figure 8 shows a disposable aerosol generating article 700 placed inside the cavity of an aerosol generating device. The disposable aerosol generating article is formed from several elements assembled within a cigarette paper to form a rod having a distal end and a mouth end. One of the elements of the rod is a plug for an aerosol forming substrate 710, which may be an aggregate of sheets of homogenized tobacco material. A piece of susceptor material 720 is placed inside the plug of the aerosol forming substrate to heat the aerosol forming substrate. When the device is operated and the susceptor is heated, the user can inhale the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating article. Air flows through the air-permeable sidewalls 210 of the cavity into the distal end of the rod and through the aerosol forming substrate to the user's mouth (arrows in Figure 8 indicate airflow). After use, the entire aerosol generating article 700 may be discarded.

[0115] Figure 9 shows a partially reusable aerosol generating article 800 placed within the cavity of the aerosol generator. The partially reusable aerosol generating article 800 comprises a porous tubular cartridge 801 containing a first sachet 810 of aerosol-forming substrate and a second sachet 820 of aerosol-forming substrate. The first and second sachets of aerosol-forming substrate are arranged coaxially within the tubular cartridge 801. The porous tubular cartridge 801 is formed from magnetic stainless steel and acts as a susceptor to heat the aerosol-forming substrate placed inside.

[0116] During use, the user inhales through a mouthpiece contained in the aerosol generating article 800 or a mouthpiece that can be attached to the aerosol generating device 10. Air flows radially into the porous tubular cartridge 801 through the air-permeable sidewalls 210 of the cavity. Thus, fresh air can flow into each of the first and second sachets of the aerosol-forming substrate. The air, and the aerosol generated by heating the substrate, are drawn into the user's mouth (arrows in Figure 8 indicate airflow).

[0117] Figure 10 shows one embodiment of an aerosol generator 10, which includes a removable mouthpiece 1000 mounted over the opening of a cavity. The removable mouthpiece can be removed to allow insertion and removal of an aerosol generating article, for example, the article 800 described with reference to Figure 9. The mouthpiece is preferably in the form of a tube formed from a polymer or paper material and is intended to allow the user to draw aerosol from the aerosol generator when in use. The removable mouthpiece 1000 can be used to dispense when the user consumes an aerosol generating article having its own integrated mouthpiece, for example, the aerosol generating article 700 described with reference to Figure 8.

[0118] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term “approximately.” Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, number A is understood as A ± 10%. In this context, number A may be considered to include a number that falls within the general standard error of the measurement of the characteristic that number A modifies. In some cases used in the appended claims, number A may deviate by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation of A does not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device for generating aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol generating device is A cavity having an opening for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the cavity is defined by a side wall extending away from the opening, A cavity base for supporting the aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol-generating article containing the aerosol-forming substrate when received within the cavity, wherein the cavity base is disposed to be movable in the longitudinal direction within the side wall defining the cavity, A push rod for the base of the cavity, which protrudes from the body of the aerosol generating device when an aerosol forming substrate or an aerosol generating article comprising the aerosol forming substrate is positioned in the cavity, an aerosol generator comprising at least one induction coil, which is located outside the cavity and is arranged to generate a fluctuating magnetic field when in operation.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the side wall of the cavity is formed from a non-susceptor material or a non-magnetic material.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the side wall of the cavity is permeable to air, thereby allowing radial inflow of air into the cavity through the side wall.

4. The aerosol generator according to claim 3, wherein the side wall has a longitudinal dimension that extends away from the opening of the cavity, and 50% to 100% of the longitudinal dimension of the side wall is formed from a radially porous material.

5. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein substantially all of the side walls are formed from a radially porous material.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cavity base is movable in the longitudinal direction between a first position and a second position, and in the first position, the cavity base is positioned closer to the opening of the cavity than in the second position.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the apparatus comprises a latch for releasably holding the cavity base in the second position.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the apparatus comprises a latch for releasably holding the cavity base in a first position.

9. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the first position is defined by a stopper, and the stopper acts to prevent the cavity base from moving further toward the opening of the cavity.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the cavity base has a first surface facing the cavity opening and a second surface facing away from the cavity opening, the second surface is connected to or linked to a push rod, and the push rod extends away from the second surface.

11. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the cavity base and the push rod form a manually operable ejector for facilitating the removal of the aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cavity base is biased by a biasing element.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the biasing element biases the base of the cavity toward the opening of the cavity.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the apparatus is configured to operate together with a first type aerosol generating article and a second type aerosol generating article different from the first type aerosol generating article, the first type aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate and a first susceptor configuration for heating the aerosol forming substrate, and the second type aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate and a second susceptor configuration for heating the aerosol forming substrate.

15. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device defined in any one of claims 1 to 14, and an aerosol generating article configured to be received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating article is An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor for heating the aerosol-forming substrate when connected to a fluctuating magnetic field generated by the induction coil of the aerosol generator.

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