Cartridge for use with an aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device (200) and a cartridge (100) for use are provided. The cartridge (100) can be attached to and detached from the device (200). The cartridge (100) includes a mouthpiece (102) and a housing (104). The housing (104) includes a susceptor material and defines a cavity (106) for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge (100) also includes an ejector (108). A portion of the ejector (108) is slidable within the cavity (106) to eject the aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity (106).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating devices configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, are known in the art. Such known devices can generate aerosols from a substrate by applying heat to the substrate rather than by combustion of the substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may exist as a component part of an aerosol-generating article, such that the article is physically separated from the aerosol generating device. In use, a cartridge may hold the aerosol-generating article, and the aerosol generating device may be connected to the cartridge. In use, the device may provide power that enables heat transfer from a heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article. During use of such known aerosol generating device and aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in droplets into the air inhaled through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol inhaled by the consumer. The present disclosure relates to providing an improved cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device.

[0003] While using some aerosol generating systems, the cartridges of these systems may reach a temperature that is uncomfortable to touch. The present disclosure also relates to alleviating problems associated with a user touching a cartridge that may be uncomfortable to touch.

[0004] According to the present disclosure, an aerosol generating system and a cartridge for use are provided. The cartridge may be connected to a device and may be detached from the device. That is, the cartridge may be connected to the device reversibly or detachably. The cartridge may include a mouthpiece. The cartridge may include a housing. The susceptor may include a susceptor material. The housing may define a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate or a consumable containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may include an ejector. A portion of the ejector may be slidable within the cavity. A portion of the ejector may be slidable within the cavity to release the aerosol-forming substrate or consumable from the cavity.

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device is provided. The cartridge may be attached to the device and detachable from the device. The cartridge may include a mouthpiece and a housing. The housing comprises a susceptor material and defines a cavity for receiving an aerosol forming substrate or a consumable containing an aerosol forming substrate. The cartridge may also include an ejector, and a portion of the ejector may be slidable within the cavity to eject the aerosol forming substrate or consumable from the cavity.

[0006] When in use, the user can insert a consumable containing an aerosol-forming material into the cavity of the cartridge. Then, the user can connect the cartridge to an aerosol generator. Next, the device can form an aerosol from the aerosol-forming material by induction heating the susceptor material of the housing. While this heating is occurring, the user can puff the mouthpiece of the cartridge to inhale the formed aerosol into their mouth or lungs.

[0007] Advantageously, a cartridge including a mouthpiece may mean that the user does not need to directly puff an aerosol-generating article or consumable containing an aerosol-forming agent. This may be desirable for some users.

[0008] Advantageously, a cartridge housing containing susceptor material may imply that the aerosol-forming substrate can be inductively heated. This may be more desirable for resistance heating, as resistance heating is less efficient in some cases because electrical energy is wasted heating the electrical contacts rather than the resistance heating element.

[0009] Advantageously, the ejector enables the discharge of a consumable containing an aerosol-forming material without the user needing to touch the consumable.

[0010] As used herein, the term “aerosol” refers to a dispersion of solid particles or droplets in a gas, or a combination of solid particles and droplets. Aerosols may be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include solid particles, droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets, as well as vapors of substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature.

[0011] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The volatile compound may be released by heating or burning the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0012] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may include one or more of powder, granules, pellets, shreds, strands, strips, or sheets containing, for example, one or more of herb leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco ribs, puffed tobacco, and homogenized tobacco.

[0013] The aerosol-forming substrate may include solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid, gel, or paste aerosol-forming substrate.

[0014] The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on a thermally stable carrier or embedded in the carrier. The carrier may take the form of powder, granules, pellets, shreds, strands, strips, or sheets. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be applied to the surface of the carrier, for example, in the form of sheets, foams, gels, or slurries. The aerosol-forming substrate may be applied over the entire surface of the carrier, or alternatively, may be applied in a pattern to provide non-uniform flavor delivery during use.

[0015] The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain plant-based materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized plant-based 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 flavor 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.

[0016] The aerosol-forming material may include homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "homogenized tobacco material" refers to a material formed by aggregating fine tobacco particles.

[0017] The aerosol-forming material may comprise a corrugated sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term “sheet” refers to a laminated element having a width and length substantially greater than its thickness. As used herein, the term “corrugated” is used to describe a sheet that is tangled, folded, or otherwise compressed or shrunken substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0018] The aerosol-forming material may include an aerosol-forming agent. As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming agent" is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, when used, promotes the formation of an aerosol and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Suitable aerosol-forming agents are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin; esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol mono-, di-, or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol-forming agents are polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, and 1,3-butanediol, or mixtures thereof, most preferably glycerin.

[0019] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a single aerosol-forming agent. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise glycerin as the sole aerosol-forming agent, or propylene glycol as the sole aerosol-forming agent. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a combination of two or more types of aerosol-forming agents. For example, the aerosol-forming agent components of the aerosol-forming substrate may be glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “aerosol generating article” or “consumable” refer to an article comprising or made of an aerosol-forming material. An aerosol generating article or consumable may include components other than the aerosol-forming material. An aerosol generating article or consumable may be a smoking article. An aerosol generating article or consumable may generate an aerosol that can be inhaled directly into the user’s lungs through the user’s mouth. An aerosol generating article or consumable is a smoking article that generates a nicotine-containing aerosol that can be inhaled directly into the user’s lungs through the user’s mouth. An aerosol generating article or consumable may be in the form of a rod.

[0021] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that generates an aerosol by interacting with an aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol generating device may generate an aerosol by interacting with an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, or with a cartridge holding an aerosol-forming substrate or an aerosol generating article. An aerosol generating device may heat the aerosol-forming substrate to facilitate the release of volatile compounds from the substrate. The aerosol generating device may be an electric aerosol generating device. An aerosol generating device may include a sprayer, such as an electric heater, that heats the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0022] As used herein, the terms “axial” and “longitudinal” are used to describe the direction between the downstream, proximal, or mouse end of a component, such as an aerosol generator, cartridge, or aerosol generating article, and the opposing upstream or distal end of the component.

[0023] As used herein, the terms 'radial direction' and 'transverse direction' are used to describe directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0024] 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 generator, cartridge, or aerosol generating article, and the opposing upstream or distal end of the component.

[0025] As used herein, the term "width" is used to describe the maximum transverse dimension of a component, for example, an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article.

[0026] As used herein, the term "diameter" is used to describe the maximum transverse dimension of a component, for example, an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating article.

[0027] As used herein, the term "thermal-activated locking mechanism" is used to refer to a locking mechanism that operates automatically in response to a change in temperature, for example, an increase in temperature.

[0028] The cartridge housing defines an axial air inlet. The axial air inlet allows air to flow axially into the housing. The housing may define an air outlet. The air outlet may be located downstream of the axial air inlet. The air outlet may be an axial air outlet. The air outlet allows air to flow axially out of the housing. The housing may define a first airflow path from the axial air inlet to the air outlet. Advantageously, the axial air inlet and the axial air outlet allow the cartridge to be used with a consumable configured to have axial airflow through them, for example, a consumable having an impermeable barrier around its circumference but a permeable barrier at its axial end or no barrier.

[0029] The housing of the cartridge may have a proximal or downstream end and a distal or upstream end. The housing may be a partially or wholly hollow tube or may comprise such a tube. 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 material.

[0030] The cartridge cavity may be suitable for accommodating consumables. As previously mentioned, the term "consumable" may refer to an article comprising or made of an aerosol-forming material. The cavity may be suitable for accommodating multiple consumables. Advantageously, the ability to accommodate multiple consumables allows the user to customize their experience by using multiple consumables of different flavors.

[0031] Each consumable may have a length extending along the axial direction between the upstream end and the downstream end. Each consumable may have a diameter extending along the transverse direction. The cavity may be suitable for accommodating a plurality of consumables such that the consumables are arranged axially within the cavity. The cavity may be suitable for accommodating a plurality of consumables such that the upstream end of a first consumable accommodated within the cavity is located adjacent to and optionally adjacent to the downstream end of a second consumable accommodated within the cavity. Additionally, the upstream end of a second consumable accommodated within the cavity may be located adjacent to and optionally adjacent to the downstream end of a third consumable accommodated within the cavity. The cavity may be suitable for accommodating a plurality of consumables such that the first consumable accommodated within the cavity is located entirely at the downstream end of the second consumable accommodated within the cavity. Additionally, the second consumable accommodated within the cavity may be located entirely downstream of the third consumable accommodated within the cavity. Advantageously, by allowing such an arrangement within the cavity, users can customize their experience by using different sequences of different consumables with different flavors within the cavity.

[0032] The cavity may be configured to firmly hold one or more consumables accommodated within the cavity. For example, the cavity may be sized to firmly hold one or more consumables accommodated within the cavity using an interference fit or a friction fit. Advantageously, this may eliminate the need for a separate mechanism to firmly hold the consumables within the cavity.

[0033] The cartridge housing may define a first radial air inlet. The first radial air inlet may be upstream of an air outlet. The first radial air inlet may be downstream of an axial air inlet. A second airflow path may be defined from the first radial air inlet to the air outlet. The first radial air inlet allows air to flow into the housing in the radial direction.

[0034] The cartridge housing may define a second radial air inlet. The second radial air inlet may be upstream of the air outlet. The second radial air inlet may be axially spaced from the first radial air inlet along the housing. The second radial air inlet may be downstream of the first radial air inlet. A third airflow path may be defined from the second radial air inlet to the air outlet. The second radial air inlet allows air to flow radially into the housing.

[0035] The cartridge housing may define a third radial air inlet. The third radial air inlet may be upstream of the air outlet. The third radial air inlet may be axially spaced along the housing from the first and second radial air inlets. The third radial air inlet may be downstream of the second radial air inlet. A fourth airflow path may be defined from the third radial air inlet to the air outlet. The third radial air inlet allows air to flow radially into the housing.

[0036] A first radial air inlet may be positioned to align with a first consumable housed within the cavity. In use, air may flow through the first radial air inlet and then through the first consumable, for example, through the permeable outer or circumferential portion of the first consumable. Then, air may flow axially through the housing. If a second consumable is housed within the cavity, air may flow through the first consumable and then through the second consumable. If a third consumable is also housed within the cavity, air may flow through the second consumable and then through the third consumable.

[0037] A second radial air inlet may be positioned to align with a second consumable housed within the cavity. In use, air may flow through the second radial air inlet and then through the second consumable, for example, through the permeable outer or circumferential portion of the second consumable. Then, air may flow axially through the housing. If a third consumable is also housed within the cavity, air may flow axially through the third consumable after flowing through the second consumable.

[0038] A third radial air inlet may be positioned to align with a third consumable housed within the cavity. In use, air may flow through the third radial air inlet and then through the third consumable, for example, through the permeable exterior or circumferential portion of the third consumable. Then, air may flow axially through the housing.

[0039] Advantageously, using radial air inlets in this manner allows fresh air to flow through each consumable, thereby improving the user experience. In contrast, if only axial air inlets are present, the air flowing through the second consumable may not be fresh because this air 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 consumable.

[0040] The cartridge housing may define both an axial air inlet and one or more radial air inlets. For example, the housing may define an axial air inlet and any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air inlets. Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air inlets may be located downstream of the axial air inlet. An air outlet may be located downstream of the axial air inlet and the radial air inlet(s). The airflow path from the axial air inlet to the air outlet may be merged with any one, two, or all of the airflow path(s) from the first, second, or third air inlets to the air outlet. Advantageously, including an axial air inlet and radial air inlets may reduce the suction resistance of the cartridge by allowing a larger airflow into the housing. Advantageously, this also enables the cartridge to be used with a wider variety of consumables. This is because the cartridge may be suitable for use with consumables for axial airflow and consumables for radial airflow through it.

[0041] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third radial air inlets may be formed by an air-permeable portion of the housing. Accordingly, the first radial air inlet may be formed by the first air-permeable portion of the housing. The second radial air inlet may be formed by the second air-permeable portion of the housing. The third radial air inlet may be formed by the third air-permeable portion of the housing.

[0042] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third air-permeable portions of the housing may include a porous material and one or more of a plurality of holes, such as a plurality of slits.

[0043] Any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third air-permeable portions of the housing may have a porosity of 40% to 95%, or 50% to 90%, or 60% to 80%. In this context, the term “porosity” may be used as an area as a measure of free space through the walls of the housing. Thus, if the air-permeable portion comprises a plurality of holes surrounded by a solid material, the percentage of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air-permeable portion formed by the holes may be 40% to 95%, or 50% to 90%, or 60% to 80% (the remainder being 60% to 5%, or 50% to 10%, or 40% to 20% formed by a solid material). Advantageously, these porous ranges can provide an optimal compromise among a number of factors, including allowing an appropriate amount of air to flow through the cartridge, allowing an appropriate level of heating of the susceptor material of the housing near the air-permeable portion, providing optimal suction resistance through the cartridge, and maintaining the structural integrity of the housing.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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 axially from the first annular air-permeable band along the housing.

[0046] The third air-permeable portion may include a third annular or substantially annular air-permeable band within the housing. The third annular air-permeable band may include a third plurality of holes within the housing. The third annular air-permeable band may be spaced axially along the housing from the first and second annular air-permeable bands.

[0047] The first air permeable band may have first permeability to airflow through it. The second air permeable band may have second permeability to airflow through it. The third air permeable band may have third permeability to airflow through it. 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 permeabilities.

[0048] Advantageously, these different permeabilities allow the user to customize their experience by determining where to position consumables within the cartridge based on the expected flow rate of air through the air permeability band. For example, if a user wishes to maximize the flavor present in a specific consumable, such consumable can be accommodated within the cavity so as to align with the air permeability band having the highest permeability.

[0049] 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% of the circumference of the housing. Thus, it should be understood that the annular air-permeable bands may extend around the entire circumference or periphery of the housing, but are not necessarily required to do so.

[0050] The cartridge may be used with an aerosol generator configured to inductively heat the susceptor material of the cartridge. 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 source. The power source may be configured to pass 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 positioned within the fluctuating electromagnetic field. The alternating current may be high-frequency alternating current. This can eventually cause eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the susceptor material. This can heat the susceptor material. Therefore, the power source and the inductor may be configured to inductively heat the susceptor material.

[0051] The susceptor material may be any material capable of inductive heating to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, or may include such a material. A preferred susceptor material may be heated to a temperature exceeding 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400°C. A preferred susceptor material may include metal and / or carbon. A preferred susceptor material may include a ferromagnetic material, for example, ferritic iron, or ferromagnetic iron or stainless steel. A suitable susceptor material may be one or more of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, and aluminum, or may include these. A preferred susceptor material may include or be formed from 400 series stainless steel, for example, grade 410, or grade 420 or grade 430 stainless steel. Particularly desirable susceptor materials may be ferromagnetic alloys, for example, ferromagnetic alloys that do not corrode under the operating conditions of the cartridge or system. Different materials lose different amounts of energy when placed in an electromagnetic field having similar values ​​of frequency and magnetic field strength. Accordingly, parameters of the susceptor material, such as material type and size, can be modified to provide desired power dissipation in a known electromagnetic field.

[0052] The susceptor material may constitute more than 50, 60, 70, or 80% of the weight of the housing. The housing may be composed of or formed from the susceptor material. Advantageously, a higher proportion of the housing formed from the susceptor material may result in greater induction heating of the housing in an induction-heated aerosol generation system.

[0053] The housing may include a housing component. The susceptor material may be located on the surface of the housing component, for example, on the inner surface of the housing component. The susceptor material may be a coating applied to the surface of the housing component, for example, on the inner surface of the housing component. The susceptor material may define at least a portion of the cavity. Advantageously, the susceptor material located on the inner surface of the housing component may lead to greater heating of the consumable housed within the cavity during use.

[0054] The susceptor material may come into contact with a 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.

[0055] The 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 at least 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 30, 20, or less than 15 mm. The cavity may have a substantially cylindrical shape, for example, a substantially upright cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a circular cross section, or an elliptical cross section, or a polygonal cross section.

[0056] The mouthpiece may be reusable. The mouthpiece may contain a polymer or be formed of a polymer. The cartridge may be reusable. Advantageously, reusable cartridges may be more environmentally friendly than disposable cartridges.

[0057] The airflow path can be defined through the mouthpiece. During use, air can flow through the housing and then through the mouthpiece.

[0058] The mouthpiece may include a constriction zone, and the constriction zone constricts the airflow through the mouthpiece during use.

[0059] The mouthpiece may include an expansion zone located downstream of a contraction zone, said expansion zone allowing for the expansion of airflow within the mouthpiece during use.

[0060] The mouthpiece may include a second contraction zone located downstream of the expansion zone, and the second contraction zone constricts the airflow through the mouthpiece during use.

[0061] The mouthpiece may include a second expansion zone located downstream of a second contraction zone, said second expansion zone allowing expansion of the airflow within the mouthpiece during use.

[0062] Advantageously, the use of one or more constriction zones and / or one or more expansion zones in the mouthpiece may be used to improve the mixing of the aerosol before delivery to the user. Additionally, the use of one or more constriction or expansion zones within the mouthpiece may be used to cool the aerosol before delivery to the user.

[0063] The ejector may be coupled to the housing of the cartridge. The ejector may be slidable axially with respect to the housing. The ejector may be slidable axially with respect to the housing from a first axial position on the housing to a second axial position on the housing. The first axial position may be closer to the mouthpiece than the second axial position. The ejector may be slidable from the first axial position to the second axial position to release an aerosol-forming material from the cavity.

[0064] The ejector may be temporarily fixed at one or both of the first axial position and the second axial position. For example, a protrusion on the ejector may be snap-fitted to a corresponding first portion on the housing at the first axial position. Similarly, a protrusion on the ejector may be snap-fitted to a corresponding second portion on the housing at the second axial position. Advantageously, this may prevent the ejector from sliding freely under the action of gravity.

[0065] The ejector can be deflected toward one of the first axial position and the second axial position by a deflection means such as a spring.

[0066] A second part of the ejector may be located outside the housing. The ejector may include a button portion. The button portion may be located outside the housing. When in use, the user can engage with the button portion and slide the ejector against the housing. Advantageously, this can simplify the use of the ejector.

[0067] When in use, the consumable inserted into the cavity may be in contact with the ejector. For example, the downstream end of the consumable inserted into the cavity may be in contact with the ejector. The ejector may act as a stop for the consumable inserted into the cavity. The ejector may act as a stop at a first axial position. In this sense, the ejector may advantageously be used to position the consumable received within the cavity. For example, the ejector may be used to position the consumable so that it aligns with a radial inlet, for example, a first radial air inlet within the housing, or an air-permeable band, for example, a first annular air-permeable band within the housing.

[0068] The housing may include a slot extending axially along the housing. The slot may have a width of at least 0.5, 1, or 1.5 mm. The slot may have a length of at least 20, 30, or 40 mm. The slot may extend along at least 30, 50, or 70% of the length of the housing. The slot may allow the user to determine whether an aerosol-forming material can be located inside the cavity of the housing. Advantageously, this may allow the user to determine how much consumable is accommodated in the cavity without the need to use an ejector.

[0069] The ejector can be coupled to the slot. The ejector can slide axially along the slot, for example, between a first axial position and a second axial position, so as to discharge a consumable contained within the cavity from the housing.

[0070] The cartridge may include a mechanical locking component of a thermally activated mechanical locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may not require any electronic devices to function. The mechanical locking component may be activated and deactivated based on the temperature in a portion of the cartridge. Advantageously, this can provide a reliable locking mechanism.

[0071] When a cartridge is coupled with an aerosol generator, the locking mechanism may be configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generator when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature. Advantageously, this can prevent a user from separating the cartridge from the aerosol generator when a part of the cartridge is hot.

[0072] The locking component may include a thermal expansion component, which is configured to expand or bend when heated. When the cartridge is coupled to an aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component may be configured to engage with a coupling component of the aerosol generator so that it expands or bends when heated to prevent the cartridge from separating from the aerosol generator. Advantageously, this can prevent a user from separating the cartridge from the aerosol generator when a portion of the cartridge is hot.

[0073] When the cartridge is connected to an aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component may be configured to expand or bend during use of the aerosol generator to generate aerosol.

[0074] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating system is provided. The system comprises an aerosol generating device and a cartridge. The cartridge may be the cartridge described above in relation to the first aspect of the present invention. Accordingly, any feature described above in relation to the cartridge of the first aspect may be applicable to the system cartridge of the second aspect. Similarly, any feature described below in relation to the system cartridge of the second aspect may be applicable to the cartridge of the first aspect.

[0075] The aerosol generating device may include an air inlet. When a cartridge is connected to the aerosol generating device, an airflow path may be formed between any one, two, three, or all of the air inlets of the device and the cartridge. Thus, when in use, air may flow through the air inlet of the device and then through one or more air inlets of the cartridge.

[0076] The aerosol generator can be configured to inductively heat the susceptor material of the cartridge.

[0077] The aerosol generator may include an inductor, such as an induction coil. The aerosol generator may include a power source. The power source may be configured to pass alternating current through the inductor so that the inductor generates a fluctuating or oscillating electromagnetic field.

[0078] The alternating current may have any appropriate frequency. The alternating current may be high-frequency alternating current. The alternating current may have a frequency of 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). If the inductor coil is a tubular inductor, the alternating current may have a frequency of 500 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). If the inductor coil is a flat inductor coil, the alternating current may have a frequency of 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 1 megahertz (MHz).

[0079] When in use, the susceptor material of the cartridge is placed within an electromagnetic field generated by an inductor, or otherwise may be subjected to an electromagnetic field. This can cause eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the susceptor material. This can heat the susceptor material. Therefore, the power supply and inductor may be configured to inductively heat the susceptor material. This can heat the consumable housed within the cavity during use, which may consequently generate an aerosol.

[0080] The susceptor material may be any material capable of inductive heating to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, or may comprise such a material. A preferred susceptor material may be heated to a temperature exceeding 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, or 400°C. A preferred susceptor material may comprise a metal and / or carbon. A preferred susceptor material may comprise a ferromagnetic material, for example, ferritic iron, or ferromagnetic iron or stainless steel. A suitable susceptor element may be one or more of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, and aluminum, or may comprise such a material. A preferred susceptor material may comprise or be formed from 400 series stainless steel, for example, grade 410, or grade 420 or grade 430 stainless steel. Different materials lose different amounts of energy when placed in an electromagnetic field having similar values ​​of frequency and magnetic field strength. Therefore, parameters of the susceptor material, such as material type and size, can be modified to provide desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field.

[0081] Advantageously, in an aerosol generation system using induction heating, there is no need to form an electrical contact between the electric resistance heating element and the aerosol generator. Furthermore, induction heating can provide improved energy conversion compared to resistance heating. This is because induction heating can avoid power losses associated with electrical resistance in the connection between the electric resistance heating element and the power source.

[0082] The aerosol generating device may include a chamber for receiving a cartridge. The chamber may extend axially to receive at least a portion of the length of the cartridge housing.

[0083] The device may include a first inductor coil. The first inductor coil may be located around or adjacent to a first part of the chamber. The aerosol generator may include a second inductor coil. The second inductor coil may be located around or adjacent to a second part of the chamber. The second part of the chamber may be spaced axially apart from the first part along the chamber. Advantageously, the use of two inductor coils spaced axially apart along the chamber may allow for non-uniform heating of the susceptor material(s) of the cartridge. For example, the first and second inductor coils may have different coil thicknesses, coil cross-sectional shapes, coil cross-sectional areas, or radii of curvature forming the coils, or different alternating currents may be applied to the first and second inductor coils. Adjusting these variables may advantageously allow for the control of heating in different parts of the cartridge.

[0084] As described above in relation to the cartridge of the first embodiment, the cavity of the cartridge may be suitable for receiving and locating a first consumable and a second consumable. The housing of the cartridge may include a first portion. The housing of the cartridge may include a second portion. The first consumable may be located in the first portion of the housing of the cartridge. The second consumable may be located in the second portion of the housing of the cartridge. The first portion of the housing of the cartridge may include a first radial air inlet or a first air permeable band. The second portion of the housing of the cartridge may include a second radial air inlet or a second air permeable band.

[0085] When the cartridge is received within the chamber, a first part of the cartridge housing may be aligned with a first part of the chamber. When the cartridge is received within the chamber of the device or when the cartridge is connected to the device, a first inductor coil may be aligned with a first part of the cartridge housing and / or a first consumable received within the cavity.

[0086] When the cartridge is received within the chamber, the second part of the cartridge housing may be aligned with the second part of the chamber. When the cartridge is received within the chamber of the device or when the cartridge is connected to the device, the second coil may be aligned with the first part of the cartridge housing and / or the second consumable received within the cavity.

[0087] Advantageously, this allows the heating of the first and second consumables to be controlled individually. For example, this allows one of the first and second consumables to be heated to a higher temperature than the other consumable by heating the susceptor material(s) surrounding the consumable to a higher temperature than the susceptor material(s) surrounding the other consumable.

[0088] The second inductor coil may be located around or adjacent to the first part of the chamber. The second inductor coil may be spaced radially apart from the first inductor coil. The second inductor coil may be at least partially surrounded by the first inductor coil, or at least partially surrounded.

[0089] The first inductor coil and the second inductor coil may operate independently. In use, the device may pass a first alternating current through the first inductor coil and simultaneously pass a second alternating current, different from the first alternating current, through the second inductor coil. The first inductor coil may be electrically connected to a first power source. The second inductor coil may be electrically connected to a second power source. The second power source may be separate from the first power source. Advantageously, this may allow for independent operation of the first and second inductor coils.

[0090] According to the present disclosure, a system comprising a cartridge and a consumable or a set of consumables is provided, such as any one, two, or all of the first, second, and third consumables described above in relation to the first embodiment. The cartridge may include any feature of the cartridge of the first embodiment. The cartridge may be the cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0091] The cartridge may be configured to hold at least two consumables, for example, by accommodating the consumables within the cavity of the cartridge. The cartridge may be configured to hold the first consumable, for example, using a friction fit, so that the first consumable is aligned with the first radial air inlet, as described above. The cartridge may be configured to hold the second consumable, for example, using a friction fit, so that the second consumable is aligned with the second radial air inlet, as described above. The cartridge may be configured to hold the third consumable, for example, using a friction fit, so that the third consumable is aligned with the third radial air inlet, as described above.

[0092] According to the present disclosure, an aerosol generating system is provided. The aerosol generating system may include any feature described in relation to the aerosol generating system. For example, the system may include any feature of the system according to a second embodiment. The system may include an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include any feature described above in relation to the aerosol generating device. The system may include a cartridge that can be coupled to the aerosol generating device and can be separated from the aerosol generating device. The cartridge may include any feature of the cartridge described above in relation to the cartridge. For example, such a cartridge includes any feature of the cartridge according to a first embodiment. The system may include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be a thermally activated locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be a mechanical locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be a thermally activated mechanical locking mechanism. When the cartridge is coupled to the device, the locking mechanism may be configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device. When the cartridge is coupled with the device, the locking mechanism may be configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0093] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating system is provided. The aerosol generating system comprises an aerosol generating device and a cartridge that is connectable to and detachable from the aerosol generating device. The system comprises a thermally activated mechanical locking mechanism. When the cartridge is connected to the device, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being detached from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a portion of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0094] Advantageously, the locking mechanism can prevent or at least restrain the user from removing the cartridge from the aerosol generator while a portion of the cartridge is still at a high temperature. This can reduce the likelihood of the user touching a portion of the cartridge that may be uncomfortably hot to the touch.

[0095] Advantageously, a locking mechanism that is a heat-activated locking mechanism may mean that the locking mechanism is automatically activated in response to heat.

[0096] The features described in relation to the aerosol generating system may be applied to the aerosol generating system of the third embodiment. For example, the system of the third embodiment may include any features of the system of the second embodiment. All features described in relation to the aerosol generating device may be applied to the aerosol generating device of the third embodiment. All features described above in relation to the cartridge may be applied to the cartridge of the third embodiment. For example, the cartridge of the third embodiment may include any features of the cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0097] The locking mechanism may not require electricity to function. The locking mechanism may not include any electrical components. The locking mechanism may be composed of non-electrical components. Advantageously, this can result in a more reliable locking mechanism.

[0098] The locking mechanism may include a thermal expansion component. The thermal expansion component may be configured to expand or bend when heated. When the cartridge is coupled to an aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component may be heated during use of the device to generate an aerosol. The thermal expansion component may be configured to expand or bend to engage with a coupling component when heated. When the cartridge is coupled to an aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component may be configured to engage with a coupling component by expanding or bending when heated to prevent the cartridge from separating from the aerosol generator. When the cartridge is coupled to an aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component may be configured to generate an aerosol by heating during use of the aerosol generator, expanding or bending to engage with a coupling component and prevent the cartridge from separating from the aerosol generator.

[0099] When a cartridge is coupled with an aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component may be configured to expand or bend by at least 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, or 3 mm in a given direction when heated during use of the aerosol generator to generate an aerosol. Advantageously, this level of expansion may allow for sufficient coupling between the thermal expansion component and the coupling component to prevent or strongly restrain the user from separating the cartridge from the device during or immediately after use of the device.

[0100] The coupling component may be a recess. The recess may be configured to accommodate at least a portion of the thermal expansion component when the thermal expansion component is expanded. When the cartridge is coupled with an aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component may be configured to protrude into the recess, or to expand or bend when heated to be accommodated by the recess. Advantageously, the interaction between the thermal expansion component and the recess may provide a simple and reliable method to prevent the cartridge from separating from the aerosol generator.

[0101] The cartridge may include a thermal expansion component. The aerosol generator may include a thermal expansion component. The cartridge may include a fastening component. The aerosol generator may include a fastening component.

[0102] One of the cartridge and the aerosol generator may include a thermal expansion component, and the other of the cartridge and the aerosol generator may include a fastening component. Accordingly, the cartridge may include a thermal expansion component, and the aerosol generator may include a fastening component. Alternatively, the aerosol generator may include a thermal expansion component, and the cartridge may include a fastening component.

[0103] If the cartridge includes a fastening component, for example, a recess, the fastening component may extend around the entire periphery of the cartridge. If the device includes a fastening component, for example, a recess, the fastening component may extend around the entire periphery of the cartridge. Advantageously, this may mean that the locking mechanism is operable when the cartridge is fastened to the device, regardless of the orientation of the cartridge relative to the device.

[0104] For example, the device may include a chamber for receiving at least a portion of a cartridge. The fastening component may be a recess and may extend around the outer periphery of the cartridge or the inner periphery of the chamber. The thermal expansion component may be located at the outer periphery of the cartridge or the other at the inner periphery of the chamber. Thus, regardless of the orientation of the cartridge with respect to the device, when the cartridge is received within the chamber and the thermal expansion component is heated, the thermal expansion component may engage with the fastening component to prevent the cartridge from separating from the device.

[0105] The cartridge and the device may be configured such that the cartridge can be coupled to the device in only one specific orientation or in one of a plurality of specific orientations. For example, the cartridge and the chamber of the device may be shaped or have a 'key shape' so that the cartridge can be accommodated within the chamber in only one specific orientation or in one of a plurality of specific orientations.

[0106] When a cartridge is connected to an aerosol generating device, a thermal expansion component may be configured to expand during use of the aerosol generating system to generate an aerosol. Advantageously, this may result in a locking mechanism that prevents the separation of the cartridge from the device during or immediately after use of the device while the cartridge is still hot from use.

[0107] When a cartridge is coupled with an aerosol generating device, a locking mechanism may be configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature may be at least 50, 60, or 65°C. The predetermined temperature may be less than 90, 80, or 70°C. The predetermined temperature may be 60°C to 90°C, or 60°C to 70°C, or 65°C to 70°C. Advantageously, this may mean that the locking mechanism is activated during use of the aerosol generating system to generate an aerosol.

[0108] As described with reference to the cartridge of the first embodiment, the cartridge may be configured to be inductively heated. The housing of the cartridge may comprise a susceptor material. A thermal expansion component may comprise a susceptor material. The thermal expansion component may be configured to be inductively heated. Advantageously, this can ensure that the thermal expansion component is heated to a temperature sufficient to activate the locking mechanism when the system is used to generate an aerosol.

[0109] The cartridge may include a thermal expansion component. The housing of the cartridge may include a thermal expansion component. The thermal expansion component may be located on or in contact with the housing of the cartridge. The thermal expansion component may be in thermal contact with the housing of the cartridge. The cartridge may be configured such that, upon use, heat from the cartridge, e.g., the housing of the cartridge, or the susceptor material of the cartridge is conducted to the thermal expansion component to heat the thermal expansion component. Advantageously, this may provide a reliable method to ensure that the thermal expansion component is heated whenever the housing of the cartridge e is heated. This may reduce the likelihood that the locking mechanism will not be activated when the cartridge is heated.

[0110] The thermal expansion component may include any of the materials listed above or a combination of materials, with reference to the susceptor material, for example, the housing of the cartridge.

[0111] The thermal expansion component may include a material strip. The material strip may be located on the outer surface of the cartridge. The material strip may be located on the inner surface of the device's chamber. The material strip may be secured to the cartridge or the device at two ends. The material strip may not be secured to the cartridge or the device between the two ends. When heated, the material strip may be configured to expand and bend or curve outward from the outer surface of the cartridge or the inner surface of the device's chamber. When heated, the central portion of the material strip between the two ends may be configured to bend outward from the outer surface of the cartridge or the inner surface of the device's chamber. When heated, the material strip may be configured to expand to reduce the radius of curvature of the material strip. Advantageously, this arrangement can maximize the radial expansion of the thermal expansion component for a given temperature increase. This can more securely 'lock' the cartridge connected to the device.

[0112] The material strip may comprise any of the materials listed above or a combination of materials, with reference to the susceptor material, for example, the housing of the cartridge. Advantageously, this may generate an aerosol by inductively heating the strip of material, for example, during use of the system.

[0113] The thermal expansion component may include a material having a linear coefficient of thermal expansion at room temperature exceeding 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, or 20 μm / mK.

[0114] The thermal expansion component may include a bimetallic component. The bimetallic component may include a first metal strip located above a second metal strip. The first metal strip may include any one of the features of the aforementioned material strip, or it may be a material strip. When heated, the first metal strip may be configured to expand outward from the second metal strip. Advantageously, this arrangement may maximize the expansion of the thermal expansion component for a given temperature increase.

[0115] The second metal strip may be part of the housing of the cartridge of the system. The second metal strip may comprise a susceptor material. The second metal strip may be inductively heated during use of the aerosol generating system to generate an aerosol. The first metal strip may comprise a susceptor material. The first metal strip may be inductively heated during use of the aerosol generating system to generate an aerosol. Advantageously, this may mean that a locking mechanism is activated during use of the aerosol generating system to generate an aerosol.

[0116] A first metal strip may be attached to a second metal strip at two ends of the first metal strip. The first metal strip may be secured to the second metal strip between the two ends of the first metal strip. When heated, the first metal strip may be configured to expand and bend outward from the second metal strip. When heated, the central portion of the first metal strip (the portion between the two ends) may be configured to bend outward from the second metal strip. When heated, the first metal strip may be configured to expand such that the radius of curvature of the central portion of the first metal strip decreases. Advantageously, this arrangement can maximize the radial expansion of the thermal expansion component for a given temperature increase. This can more securely 'lock' the cartridge coupled to the device.

[0117] According to the present disclosure, a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating system is provided. The cartridge may be connected to an aerosol generating device and may be detached from the device. The cartridge may include a mechanical locking component of a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism. When the cartridge is connected to the device, the locking mechanism may be configured to prevent the cartridge from being detached from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a portion of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0118] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a cartridge for use with an aerosol generator is provided, said cartridge being connectable to and detachable from the aerosol generator. The cartridge comprises a mechanical locking component of a thermally activated mechanical locking mechanism, wherein, when the cartridge is connected to the device, the locking mechanism may be configured to prevent the cartridge from being detached from the aerosol generator when the temperature of a portion of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0119] Advantageously, the locking mechanism can prevent or at least restrain the user from removing the cartridge from the aerosol generator while a portion of the cartridge is still at a high temperature. This can reduce the likelihood of the user touching a portion of the cartridge that may be uncomfortably hot to the touch.

[0120] Advantageously, a locking mechanism that is a heat-activated locking mechanism may mean that the locking mechanism is automatically activated in response to heat.

[0121] All the aforementioned features in relation to the cartridge may be applied to the cartridge of the fourth embodiment. For example, the cartridge of the fourth embodiment may include any feature of the cartridge of the first embodiment and any feature of the system of the third embodiment. The cartridge may be a system cartridge of the third embodiment.

[0122] The locking mechanism may not require electricity to function. The locking mechanism may not include any electrical components. The locking mechanism may be composed of non-electrical components. Advantageously, this can result in a more reliable locking mechanism.

[0123] The mechanical locking component may include a thermal expansion component or may be a thermal expansion component. The mechanical locking component may include a fastening component or may be a fastening component.

[0124] If the mechanical locking component includes a thermal expansion component or is a thermal expansion component, the locking component may be configured to engage with a fastening component of the device, for example, as described with reference to the third embodiment. If the mechanical locking component includes a fastening component or is a fastening component, the locking component may be configured to engage with a thermal expansion component of the device, for example, as described with reference to the third embodiment.

[0125] According to the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device is provided. The device may be configured to engage with and be separated from a cartridge, for example, a cartridge of a fourth embodiment. The device may include a mechanical locking component of a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism. When the cartridge engages with the device, the locking mechanism may be configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a portion of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0126] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device is provided. The device is configured to engage with and be separated from a cartridge, for example, a cartridge of a fourth aspect. The device includes a mechanical locking component of a thermally activated mechanical locking mechanism. When the cartridge engages with the device, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a portion of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0127] Advantageously, the locking mechanism can prevent or at least restrain the user from removing the cartridge from the aerosol generator while a portion of the cartridge is still at a high temperature. This can reduce the likelihood of the user touching a portion of the cartridge that may be uncomfortably hot to the touch.

[0128] Advantageously, a locking mechanism that is a heat-activated locking mechanism may mean that the locking mechanism is automatically activated in response to heat.

[0129] All features described in relation to the aerosol generating device may be applied to the aerosol generating device of the fifth embodiment. For example, the aerosol generating device of the fifth embodiment may include any feature of the aerosol generating device of the system of the third embodiment. The aerosol generating device of the fifth embodiment may be the aerosol generating device of the system of the third embodiment.

[0130] The locking mechanism may not require electricity to function. The locking mechanism may not include any electrical components. The locking mechanism may be composed of non-electrical components. Advantageously, this can result in a more reliable locking mechanism.

[0131] The mechanical locking component may include a thermal expansion component or may be a thermal expansion component. The mechanical locking component may include a fastening component or may be a fastening component.

[0132] If the mechanical locking component includes a thermal expansion component or is a thermal expansion component, the locking component may be configured to engage with a fastening component of the cartridge, for example, as described with reference to the third embodiment. If the mechanical locking component includes a fastening component or is a fastening component, the locking component may be configured to engage with a thermal expansion component of the cartridge, for example, as described with reference to the third embodiment.

[0133] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-limiting, non-comprehensive list of examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of other embodiments, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0134] Example Ex1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, wherein the cartridge is connectable to the device and detachable from the device, and the cartridge is,

[0135] Mouthpiece;

[0136] A housing comprising a susceptor material and defining a cavity for accommodating an aerosol-forming substrate; and

[0137] A cartridge including an ejector, wherein a portion of the ejector is slidable within the cavity to discharge an aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity.

[0138] Example Ex2. The cartridge of Example Ex1, wherein the housing defines an axial air inlet and an air outlet downstream of the axial air inlet, and a first airflow path is defined from the axial air inlet to the air outlet.

[0139] Example Ex3. The cartridge of Example Ex1, wherein the housing defines a first radial air inlet and an air outlet downstream of the radial air inlet, and a second airflow path is defined from the radial air inlet to the air outlet.

[0140] Example Ex4. The cartridge of Example Ex1, wherein the housing defines an axial air inlet, a first radial air inlet, and an air outlet downstream of the axial air inlet and the first radial air inlet, and a first airflow path is defined from the axial air inlet to the air outlet and a second airflow path is defined from the first radial air inlet to the air outlet.

[0141] Example Ex5. In Example Ex4, the cartridge is located downstream of the axial air inlet, wherein the first radial air inlet is located downstream of the axial air inlet.

[0142] Example Ex6. A cartridge in any one of Examples Ex3, Ex4, or Ex5, wherein the first radial air inlet is formed by the first air-permeable portion of the housing.

[0143] Example Ex7. The cartridge of Example Ex6, wherein the first air-permeable portion of the housing comprises one or more of a porous material, a plurality of slits, and a plurality of holes.

[0144] Example Ex8. The cartridge of Example Ex7, wherein the first air-permeable portion of the housing has a porosity of 40% to 95%.

[0145] Example Ex9. A cartridge in any one of Examples Ex3 to Ex8, wherein the housing defines a second radial air inlet, the second radial air inlet being spaced apart from the first radial air inlet in an axial direction along the housing.

[0146] Example Ex10. A cartridge in any one of Examples Ex3 to Ex9, wherein the first radial air inlet comprises a first plurality of holes forming a first annular air-permeable band within the housing.

[0147] Example Ex11. In Example Ex9, the first radial air inlet comprises a first plurality of holes forming a first annular air-permeable band within the housing, and the second radial air inlet comprises a second plurality of holes forming a second annular air-permeable band within the housing, wherein the second annular air-permeable band is spaced axially from the first annular air-permeable band along the housing, a cartridge.

[0148] Example Ex12. In Example Ex11, the first air-permeable band has a first permeability to airflow through it, and the second air-permeable band has a second permeability to airflow through it, wherein the first permeability is different from the second permeability, a cartridge.

[0149] Example Ex13. In any one of the previous examples, the housing is a cartridge formed of the susceptor material.

[0150] Example Ex14. A cartridge in any one of the prior examples, wherein the housing comprises a housing component and the susceptor material is a coating applied to the surface of the housing component.

[0151] Example Ex15. The cartridge of Example Ex14, wherein the coating is applied to the inner surface of the housing component and the coating defines at least a portion of the cavity.

[0152] Example Ex16. In any one of the previous examples, the susceptor material is in contact with an aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity when in use, a cartridge.

[0153] Example Ex17. In any one of the previous examples, the susceptor material is one or more of iron, steel, and aluminum, or comprises a cartridge.

[0154] Example Ex18. In any one of the previous examples, the cavity is a cartridge having a length of at least 20, 30, 40, or 50 mm.

[0155] Example Ex19. In any one of the previous examples, the cavity is a cartridge having a length of less than 100, 80, or 60 mm.

[0156] Example Ex20. In any one of the previous examples, the cavity is a cartridge having a width of at least 3, 5, or 10 mm.

[0157] Example Ex21. In any one of the previous examples, the cavity is a cartridge having a width of less than 30, 20, or 15 mm.

[0158] Example Ex22. In any one of the previous examples, the cavity is substantially in the shape of an upright cylinder, a cartridge.

[0159] Example Ex23. In any one of the previous examples, the airflow path is defined through the mouthpiece such that, in use, air flows through the housing and then through the mouthpiece, in a cartridge.

[0160] Example Ex24. The cartridge of Example Ex23, wherein the mouthpiece includes a contraction zone, the contraction zone contracts the airflow through the mouthpiece during use.

[0161] Example Ex25. The cartridge of Example Ex24, wherein the mouthpiece comprises an expansion zone located downstream of the contraction zone, the expansion zone allowing expansion of the airflow within the mouthpiece during use.

[0162] Example Ex26. The cartridge of Example Ex25, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a second contraction zone downstream of the expansion zone, the second contraction zone contracting the airflow through the mouthpiece during use.

[0163] Example Ex27. The mouthpiece of Example Ex26, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a second expansion zone located downstream of the contraction zone, the second expansion zone allowing expansion of the airflow within the mouthpiece during use, the cartridge.

[0164] Example Ex28. In any one of the previous examples, the ejector is a cartridge coupled to the housing.

[0165] Example Ex29. In any one of the previous examples, the ejector is a cartridge that is axially sliding from a first axial position on the housing to a second axial position on the housing.

[0166] Example Ex30. In Example Ex29, the cartridge is capable of sliding from the first axial position to the second axial position to discharge an aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity.

[0167] Example Ex31. In any one of the previous examples, the ejector is a cartridge that acts as a stopper for an aerosol-forming substrate inserted into the cavity when in use.

[0168] Example Ex32. In Example Ex29 or Ex30, the ejector is a cartridge that acts at the first axial position as a stop for an aerosol-forming substrate inserted into the cavity during use.

[0169] Example Ex33. In any one of the previous examples, the second part of the ejector is located outside the housing, the cartridge.

[0170] Example Ex34. A cartridge in any one of the previous examples, wherein the housing comprises a slot extending axially along the housing.

[0171] Example Ex35. The cartridge of Example Ex34, wherein the slot has a width of at least 0.5 mm.

[0172] Example Ex36. In Example Ex34 or Ex35, the slot is a cartridge having a length of at least 20 mm.

[0173] Example Ex37. A cartridge in any one of Examples Ex34 to Ex36, wherein the slot extends to at least 50% of the length of the housing.

[0174] Example Ex38. In any one of Examples Ex34 to Ex37, the slot is a cartridge that allows a user to determine whether an aerosol-forming substrate is located inside a cavity of a housing.

[0175] Example Ex39. In any one of Examples Ex34 to Ex38, the ejector is a cartridge coupled to the slot.

[0176] Example Ex40. In Example Ex39, the ejector is a cartridge that is axially sliding along the slot.

[0177] Example Ex41. In any one of the prior examples, the cartridge comprises a locking component of a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism.

[0178] Example Ex42. A cartridge according to Example Ex41, wherein when the cartridge is connected to the aerosol generating device, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0179] Example Ex43. A cartridge according to Example Ex41 or Ex42, wherein the locking component includes a thermal expansion component, the thermal expansion component is configured to expand when heated.

[0180] Example Ex44. In Example Ex43, when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generator, the thermal expansion component is configured to be coupled to the coupling component of the aerosol generator such that when heated, it expands to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generator.

[0181] Example Ex45. In Example Ex43 or Ex44, when the cartridge is connected to the aerosol generating device, the thermal expansion component is configured to expand during use of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol.

[0182] Example Ex46. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and a cartridge according to a previous example.

[0183] Example Ex47. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex46, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to inductively heat the susceptor material of the cartridge.

[0184] Example Ex48. The aerosol generating system of Example Ex47, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a chamber for receiving the cartridge and a first inductor coil located around a first portion of the chamber.

[0185] Example Ex49. The aerosol generating system of Example Ex48, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a second inductor coil.

[0186] Example Ex50. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex49, wherein the second inductor coil is located around a second part of the chamber, and the second part of the chamber is spaced axially from the first part along the chamber.

[0187] Example Ex51. An aerosol generating system in which, in Example Ex50, the cavity of the cartridge is for receiving and positioning a first aerosol forming substrate and a second aerosol forming substrate such that when the cartridge is received within the chamber of the device, the first inductor coil is substantially aligned with the first aerosol forming substrate and the second coil is substantially aligned with the second aerosol forming substrate.

[0188] Example Ex52. An aerosol generating system in which, in Example Ex51, the housing of the cartridge defines a first radial air inlet and a second radial air inlet, and the second radial air inlet is spaced axially from the radial air inlet along the housing such that when the cartridge is received in the chamber of the device, the first inductor coil is substantially aligned with the first radial air inlet and the second coil is substantially aligned with the second radial air inlet.

[0189] Example Ex53. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex49, wherein the second inductor coil is located around the first part of the chamber.

[0190] Example Ex54. An aerosol generating system in Example EX53, wherein the second inductor coil is spaced radially apart from the first inductor coil.

[0191] Example Ex55. An aerosol generating system in any one of Examples Ex49 to Ex54, wherein the first inductor coil and the second inductor coil are capable of operating independently, for example, the first inductor coil is electrically connected to a first power source and the second inductor coil is electrically connected to a second power source separate from the first power source.

[0192] Example Ex56. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and a cartridge connectable to or detachable from the aerosol generating device, wherein the system comprises:

[0193] Includes a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism,

[0194] A system in which, when the cartridge is coupled to the device, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0195] Example Ex57. An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex56, wherein the locking mechanism includes a thermal expansion component, and the thermal expansion component is configured to expand when heated.

[0196] Example Ex58. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex57, wherein, when the cartridge is connected to the aerosol generating device, the thermal expansion component is configured to be connected to the connecting component such that when heated, it expands to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device.

[0197] Example Ex59. An aerosol generating system in which, in Example Ex58, the fastening component is a recess, and when the cartridge is fastened to the aerosol generating device, the recess is configured to accommodate a portion of the thermal expansion component when the thermal expansion component expands.

[0198] Example Ex60. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex58 or Ex59, wherein the thermal expansion component is located in one of the cartridge and the aerosol generating device, and the fastening component is located in the other of the cartridge and the aerosol generating device.

[0199] Example Ex61. An aerosol generating system in any one of Examples Ex57 to Ex60, wherein when the cartridge is connected to the aerosol generating device, the thermal expansion component is configured to expand during use of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol.

[0200] Example Ex62. An aerosol generating system in any one of Examples Ex56 to Ex61, wherein when the cartridge is connected to the aerosol generating device, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds 50, 60, 65, or 70°C.

[0201] Example Ex63. An aerosol generating system in any one of Examples Ex57 to Ex62, wherein the thermal expansion component comprises a metal.

[0202] Example Ex64. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex63, wherein the thermal expansion component comprises a bimetallic part.

[0203] Example Ex65. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex64, wherein the bimetal component comprises a first metal strip located above a second metal strip.

[0204] Example Ex66. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex65, wherein the first metal strip is configured to expand to protrude from the second metal strip when heated, and optionally configured to form or increase the size of the space between a portion of the first metal strip and the second metal strip.

[0205] Example Ex67. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex65 or Ex66, wherein the second metal strip is part of the cartridge housing of the system.

[0206] Example Ex68. An aerosol generating system in Example Ex67, wherein the first metal strip and / or the second metal strip comprises a susceptor material.

[0207] Example Ex69. An aerosol generating system in which, in Example Ex68, the first metal strip and / or the second metal strip is inductively heated during use of the aerosol generating system to generate an aerosol.

[0208] Example Ex70. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, wherein the cartridge is connectable and detachable from the aerosol generating device, and the cartridge is,

[0209] Includes a mechanical locking component of a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism,

[0210] A cartridge, wherein when the cartridge is coupled with the device, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature, e.g., 50, 60, 65, or 70°C.

[0211] Example Ex71. An aerosol generating device, wherein the device is configured to be connected to and disconnected from the cartridge, and the device,

[0212] Includes a mechanical locking component of a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism,

[0213] A device in which, when the cartridge is coupled to the device, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature, e.g., 50, 60, 65, or 70°C. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0214] Now, embodiments will be further described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generator. Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Figure 1. FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generator for use with the cartridge of FIG. 1, and the drawing shows the internal components of the device. FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generating system including the cartridges of FIG. 1 and 2 and the device of FIG. 3, and the drawing shows the internal components of the system. FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the cartridge of FIG. 1 and a cross-sectional view of a part of the cartridge when combined with the device of FIG. 3 before use. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the cartridge of FIG. 1 and a cross-sectional view of a part of the cartridge when combined with the device of FIG. 3 during use. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0215] FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2 respectively show a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a cartridge (100) for use with an aerosol generating device. The cartridge (100) is attachable and detachable from the aerosol generating device. The cartridge (100) includes a reusable mouthpiece (102) formed of a polymer material. The cartridge (100) also includes a housing (104) formed of a susceptor material. In a specific embodiment, the susceptor material may be stainless steel. The housing (104) defines a cavity (106) for receiving a consumable or an aerosol-forming material. The cartridge (100) also includes an ejector (108). A portion of the ejector (108) is slidable within the cavity (106) to eject the aerosol-forming material from the cavity (106).

[0216] The cavity (106) may accommodate more than one consumable. In FIG. 2, the cartridge (100) is shown together with the first consumable (110), the second consumable (112), and the third consumable (114) accommodated in the cavity (106). The consumables include an aerosol-forming substrate. One or more of the consumables may include flavoring agents, etc.

[0217] The housing (104) is in the form of an open-ended tube. The housing (104) includes an axial air inlet (116), a first radial air inlet (118), a second radial air inlet (120), and a third radial air inlet (122). The housing (104) also defines an axial air outlet (124) that is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece (102).

[0218] When in use, the user inserts the desired consumable into the cavity (106). These consumables are held within the cavity (106) using friction or interference fitting. Then, the cartridge is connected with an aerosol generator. Specifically, the cartridge (100) is received within the chamber of the aerosol generator, and the susceptor material of the housing is inductively heated by the aerosol generator as the user inhales on the mouthpiece (102). The heating of the susceptor material heats the consumables (110, 112, 114) to generate an aerosol. Air flows through the air inlet of the aerosol generator, then through the axial air inlet (116) and the first, second, and third radial air inlets (118, 120, 122) of the cartridge (100), respectively. This air flows through the consumable and heats the consumable to form an aerosol, which is then transported to the air outlet (124) of the housing (104) and then delivered to the user through the mouthpiece (102).

[0219] A first radial air inlet (118) is formed by a first air-permeable portion of the housing. The first air-permeable portion of the housing includes a plurality of holes. These plurality of holes form a first annular air-permeable band within the housing. The first air-permeable portion of the housing has about 50% porosity. That is, about 50% of the cross-section of the first annular air-permeable band is made by the solid material of the housing, and about 50% is made by the holes.

[0220] The second radial air inlet (120) is spaced axially along the housing (104) from the first radial air inlet (118). The second radial air inlet (120) is effectively located downstream of the first radial air inlet (118). That is, when considering an axial airflow path from the axial air inlet (116) to the axial air outlet (124) through the housing, the airflow through the second radial air inlet (120) combines with this downstream axial airflow path, and from there, the airflow through the first radial air inlet (118) combines with this axial airflow path. The second radial air inlet (120) is formed by a second air-permeable portion of the housing. The second air-permeable portion of the housing includes a plurality of slits. These plurality of slits form a second annular air-permeable band within the housing. The second air-permeable portion of the housing has a porosity of about 65%.

[0221] The third radial air inlet (122) is spaced axially along the housing (104) from the second radial air inlet (120). The third radial air inlet (122) is effectively located downstream of the second radial air inlet (120). The third radial air inlet (122) is formed by a third air-permeable portion of the housing. The third air-permeable portion of the housing includes a plurality of slits. These plurality of slits form a third annular air-permeable band within the housing. The third air-permeable portion of the housing has a porosity of about 80%.

[0222] The different porosity of the first, second, and third annular air-permeable bands provides different permeability of the first, second, and third annular air-permeable bands to airflow when in use. In the present embodiment, different permeability is created using holes and slits of different shapes, but different permeability can be created equally by adjusting the number of holes or slits within the air-permeable bands and the spacing between them.

[0223] The housing (104) is formed of a susceptor material. In this embodiment, the housing is formed of stainless steel, but any suitable susceptor material may be used.

[0224] The cavity (106) is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a length of about 50 mm and a diameter or width of about 15 mm.

[0225] The airflow path is defined through the mouthpiece (102) so that when in use, air flows through the housing (104) and then through the mouthpiece (102). The mouthpiece includes a first constriction zone (126), a first expansion zone (128) downstream of the first constriction zone (126), a second constriction zone (130) downstream of the first expansion zone (128), and a second expansion zone (132) downstream of the second constriction zone (130). When in use, the constriction zones (126, 130) constrict the airflow through the mouthpiece (102), and the expansion zones (128, 132) allow the airflow within the mouthpiece (102) to expand. The constriction and expansion zones assist in mixing and cooling the aerosol before it is delivered to the user.

[0226] The ejector (108) is coupled to the housing (104). Specifically, the ejector (108) is coupled to a slot (134) that extends axially along the housing (104). The ejector (108) is axially slidable from a first axial position (136) on the housing (104) to a second axial position (138) on the housing (104) shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, so as to eject any consumable(s) contained in the cavity (106) from the cavity (106) without the user needing to touch the consumable(s). A portion of the ejector (108) is located outside the housing (104) so ​​that the user can easily slide the ejector (108) between these positions.

[0227] As shown in FIG. 2, the ejector (108) acts as a stop at a first axial position (136) for a consumable initially received in the cavity (106). In this case, the consumable initially received in the cavity (106) is a third consumable (114). In this way, the ejector (108) aligns the third consumable (114) with the third radial air inlet (122). As can be seen in FIG. 2, the ejector (108) can be temporarily fixed at the first axial position (136) using a snap-fit ​​mechanism (139).

[0228] The slot (134) has a width of 1 mm and a length of about 20 mm. The slot (134) not only provides a path for the ejector (108) to slide, but also allows the user to see how much of the consumable is located inside the cavity (106) of the housing (104).

[0229] The cartridge (100) also includes a locking component (140) of a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism.

[0230] The locking component (140) is a thermal expansion component configured to expand when heated. In this embodiment, the locking component (140) is a bimetallic part comprising a first strip steel located above the second steel strip. In this context, "above" refers to the first strip steel located radially outside the second strip steel. In this embodiment, the second strip steel is part of the housing (104) of the cartridge (100). The first strip steel is attached to the second strip steel (attached to the housing (104)) only at its radial ends (left and right of the strip as shown in FIG. 1). Thus, when heated, the first strip steel is configured to expand so as to protrude or bend outward from the second strip steel, so that a space is formed between the central section of the first strip steel and the second strip steel. Since the first and second strips are formed of susceptor material, steel, both of these strips can be inductively heated during use of an aerosol generator configured to inductively heat, for example, the housing of the cartridge (100).

[0231] The operation of the thermal activation locking mechanism of the aerosol generation system is explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6.

[0232] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200), and the drawing shows the internal components of the device (200).

[0233] The aerosol generating device (200) is configured to inductively heat the susceptor material of the cartridge (100). The device (200) includes a chamber (202) for receiving the cartridge (100). The device (200) also includes a device air inlet (203) that is in fluid communication with the chamber (202).

[0234] The device (200) includes a first inductor coil (204) coupled to a first power source (206) and located around a first portion of the chamber (202). When the cartridge (100) is received within the chamber (202), the first inductor coil (204), the first consumable (110), and the first radial air inlet (118) are all aligned. Accordingly, the first inductor coil (204) is primarily configured to heat the susceptor material of the housing (104) of the cartridge (100) around or near the first consumable (110).

[0235] The device (200) includes a second inductor coil (208) coupled to a second power source (210) and located around a second portion of the chamber (202) that is axially spaced along the chamber (202) from a first portion of the chamber (202). When the cartridge (100) is received within the chamber (202), the second inductor coil (208), the second consumable (112), and the second radial air inlet (120) are all aligned. Accordingly, the second inductor coil (208) is primarily configured to heat the susceptor material of the housing (104) of the cartridge (100) around or near the second consumable (112).

[0236] The device (200) includes a third inductor coil (212) coupled to a third power source (214) and located around a third portion of the chamber (202) that is axially spaced along the chamber (202) from the first and second portions of the chamber (202). When the cartridge (100) is received within the chamber (202), the third inductor coil (210), the third consumable (114), and the third radial air inlet (122) are all aligned. Accordingly, the third inductor coil (212) is primarily configured to heat the susceptor material of the housing (104) of the cartridge (100) around or near the third consumable (114).

[0237] Each of the first, second, and third inductor coils (204, 208, 212) is coupled to their respective first, second, and third power sources (206, 210, 214), meaning that different alternating currents can pass through each of these inductor coils independently. This allows for independent control of the heating of the first, second, and third consumables (110, 112, 114).

[0238] The device (200) also includes a fastening component (216). The fastening component (216) is an annular recess formed inside the chamber (202). The fastening component (216) is part of a heat-activated locking mechanism and is configured to engage with the locking component (140) of the cartridge (100) when in use. In particular, the fastening component (216) or the recess is configured to accommodate the locking component (140) when heated to a temperature sufficient for the locking component (140) to expand. Specifically, the first strip steel of the locking component (140) is accommodated within the recess when heated, and expands outward from the second strip steel of the locking component (140).

[0239] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generating system (300), and the drawing shows the internal components of the system (300). The system (300) shows the cartridge (100) of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 connected to the device (200) of FIG. 3. For clarity, the slot (134) and radial air inlets (118, 120, 122) of the cartridge (100) are not shown in FIG. 4.

[0240] The thermal activation locking mechanism of the system (300) includes a locking component (140) of the cartridge (100) and a fastening component (216) of the device (200). When the cartridge (100) is fastened to the device (200) as shown in FIG. 4, the locking component (140) aligns with the fastening component (216).

[0241] When in use, after the cartridge (100) is connected to the device (200), a user interface (not shown), such as a button or touchscreen on the device, is used to activate the device (200). This causes a controller (not shown) to send a signal to each of the first, second, and third power sources (206, 210, 214) to supply high-frequency alternating current to each of their respective first, second, and third inductor coils (204, 208, 212). This causes each induction coil to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field. This ultimately causes eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the susceptor material of the housing (104) of the cartridge (100). This heats the susceptor material. Thus, the housing (104) is inductively heated. This heat is transferred to the first, second, and third consumables (110, 112, 114) housed within the cavity (106) of the cartridge (100), causing the aerosol-forming substrate of each consumable to release a volatile compound.

[0242] While the housing (104) of the cartridge is induction heated, the user places their lips on the mouthpiece (102) of the cartridge (100) and inhales. This creates a pressure difference that causes air to flow into the chamber (202) of the device through the device air inlet (203). Then, this air flows through the axial air inlet (116) and the first, second, and third radial air inlets (118, 120, 122) of the cartridge (100). Some air will also flow through the slot (134) of the cartridge (100). This air flows through the consumable and entrains volatile compounds released by the consumable to form an aerosol. The aerosol flows mostly axially through the housing (104) of the cartridge (100) until it reaches the air outlet (124) of the housing (104) and into the mouthpiece (102).

[0243] Next, the aerosol flows through the first and second contraction and expansion zones (126, 128, 130, 132) within the mouthpiece (102). This mixes and cools the aerosol. Then, the aerosol is delivered to the user, and the user inhales the aerosol into the mouth and lungs.

[0244] While the housing (104) of the cartridge (100) is inductively heated (to generate an aerosol), the locking component (140), or the thermal expansion component, is also heated. This is achieved in part through heat conduction from the housing (104) to the locking component (140) and in part through inductive heating of the locking component (140) itself. This is because, in this embodiment, the locking component (140) comprises a susceptor material—steel. This heating of the locking component (140) causes the locking component (140) to expand. Specifically, the first strip steel of the locking component (140) is attached to the second strip steel of the locking component (140) at its radial end and expands to bend outward from the second strip steel of the locking component (140). This expansion is best illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0245] FIG. 5 shows a cartridge (100) including a locking component (140) before heating. Cross-section AA shows a portion of the cartridge (100) and chamber (202) of the device of FIG. 3. In this cross-section, the cartridge (100) is connected to the device so that a portion of the cartridge (100) is received within the chamber (202) of the device. As can be seen from FIG. 5, in this position, the cartridge (100) can be easily removed from the chamber (202) when the locking component (140) for preventing separation of the cartridge (100) from the device is not connected to the connecting component (216) or the annular recess of the device.

[0246] FIG. 6 shows a cartridge (100) including a locking component (140) after heating as described above. Cross-section BB shows a portion of the cartridge (100) and chamber (202) of the device of FIG. 3. In this cross-section, the cartridge (100) is connected to the device so that a portion of the cartridge (100) is received within the chamber (202) of the device. As can be seen in FIG. 6, the locking component (140) is heated to expand and connect the connecting component (216). Specifically, the first strip steel of the locking component (140) bends outward from the housing (104) of the cartridge (100) or the second strip steel and is received within an annular recess within the chamber (202) of the device. The recess is annular so that the locking component (140) will connect with the connecting component (216) when the locking component (140) expands, regardless of the orientation of the cartridge (100) relative to the chamber (202). This connection between the locking component (140) and the fastening component (216) prevents the separation of the cartridge (100) from the device because the user can no longer easily pull the cartridge (100) up from the chamber (202). When the locking component (140) cools down again, it contracts to separate from the fastening component (216), allowing the user to easily remove the cartridge (100) from the chamber (202) again. In this way, the heat-activated locking mechanism provides a reliable method to prevent the user from touching the housing (104) of the cartridge (100), which may be uncomfortably warm to the touch.

[0247] In the embodiment described herein, the locking component (140) expands sufficiently to engage with the fastening component (216) and prevents the separation of the cartridge (100) from the device at a temperature around 65°C.

[0248] In the present embodiment, the cartridge (100) includes a locking component (140), and the device includes a fastening component (216). However, those skilled in the art will understand that the cartridge (100) may include a fastening component (216) and the device may include a locking component (140). In this case, the locking component (140) of the device may expand to engage with a recess or hole within the cartridge (100).

[0249] For the purposes of this description and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood in all cases to be modified by the term “about.” Additionally, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. Accordingly, in this context, the number A is understood as 10% of A ± A. In this context, the number A may be considered to include a numerical value within the general standard error for measuring the characteristic that the number A modifies. In some examples used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the aforementioned percentages, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not substantially affect the basic and novel feature(s) of the claimed invention. Additionally, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

Claim 1 A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, wherein the cartridge is connectable to the device and detachable from the device, and the cartridge comprises: a mouthpiece; a housing comprising a susceptor material and defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate; and an ejector, wherein a portion of the ejector is slidable within the cavity to discharge the aerosol-forming substrate from the cavity. Claim 2 A cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the housing defines an axial air inlet, a first radial air inlet, and an air outlet downstream of the axial air inlet and the first radial air inlet. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the housing defines a second radial air inlet, wherein the second radial air inlet is spaced apart from the first radial air inlet in the axial direction along the housing, the cartridge. Claim 4 A cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the first radial air inlet comprises a first plurality of holes forming a first annular air permeable band within the housing, and the second radial air inlet comprises a second plurality of holes forming a second annular air permeable band within the housing, and the second annular air permeable band is spaced axially from the first annular air permeable band along the housing. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the first annular air-permeable band has a first permeability to airflow through it, and the second annular air-permeable band has a second permeability to airflow through it, wherein the first permeability is different from the second permeability, a cartridge. Claim 6 A cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the airflow path is defined such that, in use, air flows through the housing and then through the mouthpiece, the mouthpiece comprising a contraction zone and an expansion zone, wherein the contraction zone contracts the airflow through the mouthpiece and the expansion zone allows the expansion of the airflow within the mouthpiece. Claim 7 In claim 1, the ejector is a cartridge that acts as a stopper for an aerosol-forming substrate inserted into the cavity when in use. Claim 8 A cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a slot extending axially along the housing, the slot being for allowing a user to determine whether an aerosol-forming material is located inside the cavity of the housing. Claim 9 In paragraph 8, the ejector is a cartridge coupled to the slot. Claim 10 A cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge comprises a locking component of a heat-activated mechanical locking mechanism, and when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generator, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generator when the temperature of a part of the locking mechanism exceeds a predetermined temperature. Claim 11 In claim 10, the locking component includes a thermal expansion component, wherein the thermal expansion component is configured to expand when heated to engage with a fastening component of the aerosol generating device so as to prevent the cartridge from being separated from the aerosol generating device. Claim 12 An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and a cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 11. Claim 13 In claim 12, the aerosol generating system is configured such that the aerosol generating device inductively heats the susceptor material of the cartridge. Claim 14 In claim 12, the aerosol generating device comprises a chamber for receiving the cartridge, a first inductor coil located around a first part of the chamber, and a second inductor coil located around a second part of the chamber, wherein the second part of the chamber is spaced axially along the chamber from the first part of the chamber, an aerosol generating system. Claim 15 An aerosol generating system according to claim 14, wherein the first inductor coil is electrically connected to a first power source, and the second inductor coil is electrically connected to a second power source separate from the first power source.

Images