Aerosol-generating article with two cavities

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article (10) for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating article (1) being a planar aerosol-generating article (10) defined by a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, a thickness extending in a z-direction, the aerosol-generating article (10) comprising: one or more aerosol- generating substrates; a first cavity (31); a second cavity (32) offset from the first cavity (31) in the y-direction; a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity (31); and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity (32), wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substates is positioned along the first airflow passage, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage, and wherein the first cavity (31) and the second cavity (32) each have a mid- point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article (10), the mid-point width of a cavity being measured in an x / y plane extending through a mid-point along the thickness of the cavity.

Description

[0001] AEROSOL-GENERATING ARTICLE WITH TWO CAVITIES

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating device for use with the aerosol-generating article. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosolgenerating device and the aerosol-generating article.

[0003] A typical aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. In use, the aerosolgenerating device is arranged to heat a heating element that is positioned near, or in contact with, the aerosol-generating substrate which causes the aerosol-generating substrate to heat up and release volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are then entrained in air that is drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the volatile compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a consumer.

[0004] A typical aerosol-generating article may appear similar and have similar dimensions to a conventional cigarette. For example, such an aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical and comprise an aerosol-generating substrate in addition to other components such as mouthpiece filter element and a cooling element, which are arranged in the form of a rod and wrapped in a cigarette paper.

[0005] However, a significant portion of the aerosol-generating substrate in these cylindrical aerosol-generating articles may not be sufficiently heated to form an aerosol during use. This is undesirable since the insufficiently heated portion of the aerosol-generating substrate contributes to the cost of manufacture and transport of the aerosol-generating article but does not contribute to the aerosol delivered to the consumer. Moreover, the components of these cylindrical aerosol-generating articles normally need to have the same or very similar outer diameters so that they can be brought together, accurately positioned in axial alignment and wrapped in a cigarette paper. This can lead to increased cost and complexity of manufacture.

[0006] Known aerosol-generating articles are typically designed to be disposed of after a single use by the user. Such aerosol-generating articles typically provide a user with a single user experience.

[0007] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating article in which a greater portion of the aerosol-generating substrate is sufficiently heated to form an aerosol during use. It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating article which can provide an optimised delivery of aerosol to the consumer upon heating. It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating article which is able to provide a user with multiple uses or experiences. It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating article in which the user is able to select between different experiences. It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating article that can be manufactured relatively efficiently and cheaply.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating article may be a planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article has or is defined by a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction. The aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more aerosolgenerating substrates. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first cavity. The aerosolgenerating article may comprise a second cavity. The second cavity may be offset from the first cavity in the y-direction. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first airflow passage. The first airflow passage may extend through the first cavity. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a second airflow passage. The second airflow passage may extend through the second cavity. At least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates may be positioned along the second airflow passage. At least one of the one or more aerosolgenerating substrates may be positioned along the second airflow passage. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, the mid-point width being measured in an x / y plane extending through a mid-point along the thickness of the respective cavity. One or both of the first cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. The first cavity and the second cavity may each have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0009] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating article having a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction, the aerosol-generating article comprising: one or more aerosolgenerating substrates; a first cavity; a second cavity offset from the first cavity in the y- direction; a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity; and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosolgenerating substates is positioned along the first airflow passage, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating article having a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction, the aerosol-generating article comprising: one or more aerosolgenerating substrates; a first cavity; a second cavity offset from the first cavity in the y- direction; a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity; and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol- generating substates is positioned along the first airflow passage, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage, and wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, the mid-point width of a cavity being measured in an x / y plane extending through a mid-point along the thickness of the cavity.

[0011] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating article being a planar aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article having a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, a thickness extending in a z- direction, the aerosol-generating article comprising: one or more aerosol-generating substrates; a first cavity; a second cavity offset from the first cavity in the y-direction; a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity; and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substates is positioned along the first airflow passage, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage, and wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, the mid-point width of a cavity being measured in an x / y plane extending through a mid-point along the thickness of the cavity.

[0012] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating article having a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, a thickness extending in a z-direction, the aerosol-generating article comprising: one or more aerosolgenerating substrates; a first cavity; a second cavity offset from the first cavity in the y- direction; a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity; and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosolgenerating substates is positioned along the first airflow passage, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage, and wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0013] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating article being a planar aerosol-generating article defined by a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, a thickness extending in a z-direction, the aerosol-generating article comprising: one or more aerosol-generating substrates; a first cavity; a second cavity offset from the first cavity in the y-direction; a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity; and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substates is positioned along the first airflow passage, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage, and wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0014] Advantageously, the planar aerosol-generating article allow for good contact with an external heater, particularly a planar external heater, of an aerosol-generating device, thereby providing efficient and optimum heating of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0015] Advantageously, aerosol-generating articles of the present disclosure may be heated along substantially their entire length and width, thereby allowing the entire aerosol-generating substrate to be sufficiently heated to generate an aerosol.

[0016] Advantageously, the aerosol-generating article is planar and may therefore be relatively thin. This may provide a small temperature gradient or difference across the thickness of the aerosol-generating article during heating. This may advantageously optimise generation of aerosol by the aerosol-generating substrate to optimise delivery of aerosol to the user. For example, this may improve the quantity and quality of aerosol delivered to a user across all uses of the aerosol-generating article.

[0017] Advantageously, the aerosol-generating article having a first cavity and a second cavity, wherein an aerosol-generating substrate is located along a first airflow passage that extends through the first cavity, and wherein an aerosol-generating substrate is located along a second airflow passage that extends through the second cavity may provide a user with multiple uses and multiple user experiences. An aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat aerosol-generating substrate or portions of aerosol-generating substrate associated with the first cavity and the first airflow separately from aerosol-generating substrate or portions of aerosol-generating substrate associated with the second cavity and the second airflow passage. For example, during a first use, only aerosol-generating substrate or portions of an aerosol-generating substrate associated with the first cavity and first airflow passage may be substantively heated to generate aerosol. Subsequently, during a second use, only aerosol-generating substrate or portions of an aerosol-generating substrate associated with the second cavity and second airflow passage may be substantively heated to generate aerosol.

[0018] Aerosol-generating substrate or portions of an aerosol-generating substrate associated with the first cavity and first airflow passage may be different to aerosol-generating substrate or portions of an aerosol-generating substrate associated with the second cavity and second airflow passage to advantageously provide the user with different user experiences between uses. For example, aerosol-generating substrate located within the first cavity may be different to aerosol-generating substrate located within the second cavity. As another example, aerosol-generating substrate in a wall forming or defining the first cavity may be different to aerosol-generating substrate in a wall forming or defining the second cavity. Aerosol-generating substrate or portions of an aerosol-generating substrate associated with the first cavity and first airflow passage may be substantially the same as aerosol-generating substrate or portions of an aerosol-generating substrate associated with the second cavity and second airflow passage to advantageously provide the user with a consistent experience between separate uses of the aerosol-generating article.

[0019] Advantageously, the first cavity and the second cavity being offset in the y-direction may provide an aerosol-generating article that is able to provide a user with multiple uses or experiences while being relatively thin to optimise aerosol delivery to the user across all uses.

[0020] Advantageously, aerosol-generating articles of the present disclosure may be manufactured by layering sheet materials which can be achieved through a continuous manufacturing process, thereby resulting in an aerosol-generating article that is relatively easy and cheap to manufacture.

[0021] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first planar external surface, a second planar external surface and a frame located between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface, as discussed in more detail below. Advantageously, the frame may allow the aerosol-generating article to be relatively thin whilst maintaining structural rigidity.

[0022] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the first cavity and the second cavity may each have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 40 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0023] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width less than or equal to 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or less than or equal to 40 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0024] The width of the cavities may be selected based on a desired balance between the available space for aerosol-generating substrate and the overall size of the aerosol-generating article. The width of the cavities may be selected based on the desired resistance to draw of the aerosol-generating article.

[0025] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width between 35 percent and 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 35 percent and 40 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 40 percent and 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0026] The sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may be greater than or equal to 70 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, greater than or equal to 80 percent of the width of the aerosol-generating article, or greater than or equal to 90 percent of the width of the aerosol-generating article. Increasing the sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may provide a larger area in which aerosolgenerating substrate may be located. This may enable the aerosol-generating article to contain more aerosol-generating substrate.

[0027] The sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may be less than or equal to 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or less than or equal to 90 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0028] The sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may be between 70 percent and 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 70 percent and 90 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. The sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may be between 80 percent and 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 80 percent and 90 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. The sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may be between 90 percent and 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0029] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 4.5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 7 millimetres. One or both fo the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width greater than 9 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width greater than or equal to 11 millimetres.

[0030] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width less than or equal to 13 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity cavity may have a width less than or equal to 11 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width less than or equal to 9 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width less than or equal to 7 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width less than or equal to 5 millimetres.

[0031] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity y may have a width between 4.5 millimetres and 13 millimetres, between 4.5 millimetres and 11 millimetres, between 4.5 millimetres and 9 millimetres, between 4.5 millimetres and 7 millimetres, or between 4.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres.

[0032] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width between 5 millimetres and 13 millimetres, between 5 millimetres and 11 millimetres, between 5 millimetres and 9 millimetres, or between 5 millimetres and 7 millimetres.

[0033] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width between 7 millimetres and 13 millimetres, between 7 millimetres and 11 millimetres, or between 7 millimetres and 9 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width between 9 millimetres and 13 millimetres, or between 9 millimetres and 11 millimetres.

[0034] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a width between 11 millimetres and 13 millimetres.

[0035] A width of the first cavity and a width of the second cavity may be the same. This may be desirable where substantially the same experience is desired between separate uses of the aerosol-generating article. In particular, this may be desirable where substantially the same aerosol generation is desired by the aerosol-generating substrate associated with the first cavity and the first airflow passage and the aerosol-generating substrate associated with the second cavity and the second airflow passage.

[0036] A width of the first cavity and a width of the second cavity may be different. This may be desirable where different experiences between separate uses of the aerosol-generating article is desired.

[0037] The first cavity and the second cavity may have a different shape. At least one of the width, length, or thickness of the first cavity may be different from the width, length or thickness of the second cavity, respectively.

[0038] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the first cavity and the second cavity may each have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 30 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosolgenerating article.

[0039] As used herein, the “mid-point width” of a cavity refers to a width of the cavity measured in an x / y plane extending through a mid-point along the thickness of the cavity. Accordingly, the mid-point width of a cavity refers to the maximum dimension of the cavity in the lateral direction in an x / y plane extending through a mid-point along the thickness of the cavity. The “mid-point width” of a cavity may also be referred to as the “mid-thickness width” or “midheight” width of the cavity. The mid-point width of a cavity may be measured in an x / y plane extending through a centre point of the cavity. For example, the mid-point width of the first cavity refers to a width of the first cavity measured in an x / y plane extending through a midpoint along the thickness of the first cavity.

[0040] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a mid-point width less than or equal to 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or less than or equal to 40 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0041] The width of the cavities may be selected based on a desired balance between the available space for aerosol-generating substrate and the overall shape and size of the aerosol- generating article. The width of the cavities may be selected based on the desired resistance to draw of the aerosol-generating article.

[0042] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a mid-point width between 25 percent and 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 25 percent and 40 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a mid-point width between 30 percent and 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 30 percent and 40 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a mid-point width between 35 percent and 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 35 percent and 40 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0043] The sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the mid-point width of the second cavity may be greater than or equal to 50 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, greater than or equal to 60 percent of the width of the aerosol-generating article, or greater than or equal to 70 percent of the width of the aerosol-generating article. Increasing the sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may provide a larger area in which aerosol-generating substrate may be located. This may enable the aerosolgenerating article to contain more aerosol-generating substrate.

[0044] The sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the mid-point width of the second cavity may be less than or equal to 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or less than or equal to 90 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or less than or equal to 80 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0045] The sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the mid-point width of the second cavity may be between 50 percent and 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, between 50 percent and 90 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 50 percent and 80 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0046] The sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the mid-point width of the second cavity may be between 60 percent and 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, between 60 percent and 90 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 60 percent and 80 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0047] The sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the mid-point width of the second cavity may be between 70 percent and 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, between 70 percent and 90 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, or between 70 percent and 80 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0048] The largest dimension of the first cavity in the lateral direction may be through an x / y plane extending through the mid-point along the thickness of the first cavity. In such case, the mid-point width of the first cavity is the same as the width of the first cavity. The width of the first cavity may be constant along the z-direction. In such case, the mid-point width of the first cavity is the same as the width of the first cavity. For example, the cross-section (cross-sectional shape and size) of the first cavity in an x / y plane may not vary along the z-direction.

[0049] The largest dimension of the second cavity in the lateral direction may be through an x / y plane extending through the mid-point along the thickness of the second cavity. In such case, the mid-point width of the second cavity is the same as the width of the second cavity.

[0050] The width of the second cavity may be constant along the z-direction. In such case, the mid-point width of the second cavity is the same as the width of the second cavity. For example, the cross-section (cross-sectional shape and size) of the first cavity in an x / y plane may not vary along the z-direction.

[0051] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 1 .5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 3.5 millimetres.

[0052] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 1 .5 millimetres.

[0053] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness between 1 millimetre and 4.5 millimetres. Preferably, one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a thickness between 2.8 millimetres and 3.3 millimetres.

[0054] Preferably, the first cavity and the second cavity have substantially the same thickness. Preferably, the first cavity and the second cavity both have a thickness equal to a thickness of a frame of the aerosol-generating article.

[0055] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 50 percent of a thickness of the aerosol-generating article, greater than or equal to 65 percent of a thickness of the aerosol-generating article, or greater than or equal to 80 percent of a thickness of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 95 percent of a thickness of the aerosol-generating article.

[0056] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length greater than or equal to 14 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length equal to a greater than 18 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length greater than or equal to 22 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 30 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 38 millimetres.

[0057] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length less than or equal to 40 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 34 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length less than or equal to 28 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 22 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness less than or equal to 18 millimetres.

[0058] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length between 14 millimetres and 40 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length between 14 millimetres and 34 millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length between 24 millimetres and 28 millimetres.

[0059] Preferably, the first cavity and the second cavity have substantially the same length.

[0060] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length greater than or equal to 50 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article, greater than or equal to 65 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article, or greater than or equal to 80 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length less than or equal to 95 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article.

[0061] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a length between 14 millimetres and 40 millimetres, a width between 4.5 millimetres and 13 millimetres, and a thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres.

[0062] Preferably, one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a length between 20 millimetres and 30 millimetres, a width between 7 millimetres and 10 millimetres, and a thickness between 2.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres.

[0063] Most preferably, One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a length of 26 millimetres, a width of 8 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.1 millimetres.

[0064] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a volume of greater than or equal to 30 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 100 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 300 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 500 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 700 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 900 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 1000 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 2000 cubic millimetres, or greater than or equal to 30 cubic millimetres.

[0065] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a volume of less than or equal to 3500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 2500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 1500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 1000 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 800 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 600 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 400 cubic millimetres, or less than or equal to 300 cubic millimetres.

[0066] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a volume between 30 cubic millimetres and 3500 cubic millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a volume between 30 cubic millimetres and 2500 cubic millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a volume between 100 cubic millimetres and 1500 cubic millimetres. One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a volume between 100 cubic millimetres and 1000 cubic millimetres.

[0067] The second cavity is offset from the first cavity in the y-direction.

[0068] The second cavity may be spaced from the first cavity in the y-direction. The first cavity and the second cavity may not both extend through a same x / z plane.

[0069] The first cavity and the second cavity may be spaced in the y-direction by greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 1 millimetre, or greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. During use of the aerosol-generating article with an aerosol-generating device, only one of the first cavity and the second cavity may be aligned with a heater of the aerosolgenerating device. This may be such that during each use of the aerosol-generating article, aerosol is generated substantially only by aerosol-generating material associated with a selected one of the first cavity and the second cavity and the corresponding first airflow passage and the second airflow passage. This may be such that the aerosol-generating article is able to provide a user with separate experiences. A greater separation between the first cavity and the second cavity may increase the tolerances in which the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device to align the heater of the aerosol-generating device with only one of the first cavity or the second cavity.

[0070] The first cavity and the second cavity may be spaced in the y-direction by less than or equal to 5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4 millimetres, or less than or equal to 3 millimetres.

[0071] The separation between the first cavity and the second cavity may be selected based on a desired balance between ease and efficiency of use of the aerosol-generating article with an aerosol-generating device to provide separate experiences, the overall shape and size of the aerosol-generating article, and the amount of material used to form the aerosol-generating article (such as a cavity separating wall of the aerosol-generating article).

[0072] The first cavity and the second cavity may be spaced in the y-direction by between 0.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 0.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres, or between 0.5 millimetres and 3 millimetres. The first cavity and the second cavity may be spaced in the y- direction by between 1 millimetre and 5 millimetres, between 1 millimetre and 4 millimetres, or between 1 millimetre and 3 millimetres. The first cavity and the second cavity may be spaced in the y-direction by between 1.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 1.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres, or between 1.5 millimetres and 3 millimetres.

[0073] The separation in the y-direction of the first cavity and the second cavity may correspond to a width of a cavity separating wall, which is discussed in more detail below.

[0074] The first cavity and the second cavity may be aligned in the x-direction. In other words, the first cavity and the second cavity may be longitudinally aligned with one another.

[0075] The first cavity extends (in the x-direction) from an upstream or first end to a downstream or second end of the first cavity. The second cavity extends (in the x-direction) from an upstream or first end to a downstream or second end of the second cavity.

[0076] The upstream end of the first cavity may be longitudinally aligned with the upstream end of the second cavity. In other words, the upstream end of the first cavity may be aligned in the x-direction with the upstream end of the second cavity.

[0077] The downstream end of the first cavity may be longitudinally aligned with the downstream end of the second cavity.

[0078] The second cavity may be offset from the first cavity in the x-direction. In other words, the first cavity and the second cavity may be longitudinally offset from one another. The second cavity may be spaced from the first cavity in the x-direction. The first cavity and the second cavity may not both extend through a same y / z plane.

[0079] The first cavity and the second cavity may be aligned in the z-direction.

[0080] The first cavity extends, in the z-direction, from an upper end (top) to a lower end (bottom). The upper end may be towards a first planar external surface of the aerosolgenerating article. The lower end may be towards a second planar external surface of the aerosol-generating article. The second cavity extends, in the z-direction, from an upper end to a lower end.

[0081] The upper end of the first cavity may be aligned in the z-direction with the upper end of the second cavity. The lower end of the first cavity may be aligned in the z-direction with the lower end of the second cavity.

[0082] A cross-section of the aerosol-generating article in an y / z plane may extend through both the first cavity and the second cavity. All cross-sections of the aerosol-generating article in a y / z plane extending through the first cavity may also extend through the second cavity.

[0083] The first cavity and the second cavity may be substantially parallel to one another.

[0084] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a cavity separating wall located between the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall separates the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may advantageously provide structural support for the aerosol-generating article. In particular, the cavity separating wall may provide structural support for an upper or top layer of the aerosol-generating article and a lower or bottom layer of the aerosol-generating article. The cavity separating wall may be a part of a frame of the aerosol-generating article, which is discussed further below.

[0085] The cavity separating wall may be planar. The cavity separating wall may extend in the x-direction and the z-direction. The cavity separating wall may extend in the x / z plane. The cavity separating wall may be parallel to the z-direction.

[0086] The cavity separating wall may extend along at least a part of the length of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may extend along the entire length of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. For example, the cavity separating wall may extend along the entire length of both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0087] The cavity separating wall may define at least a portion of the length of both the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may define the entire length of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may form a wall of both the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0088] The width of the cavity separating wall may be equal to the separation between the first cavity and the second cavity in the y-direction.

[0089] The cavity separating wall may have a width greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 1 millimetre, or greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres.

[0090] The cavity separating wall may have a width less than or equal to 5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4 millimetres, or less than or equal to 3 millimetres.

[0091] The cavity separating wall may have a width between 0.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 0.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres, or between 0.5 millimetres and 3 millimetres. The cavity separating wall may have a width between 1 millimetre and 5 millimetres, between 1 millimetre and 4 millimetres, or between 1 millimetre and 3 millimetres. The cavity separating wall may have a width between 1.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 1.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres, or between 1.5 millimetres and 3 millimetres.

[0092] Increasing the width of the cavity separating wall increases the separation between the first cavity and the second cavity. Increasing the width of the cavity separating wall may increase the structural rigidity of the aerosol-generating article. The width of the cavity separating wall may be selected based on a desired balance between ease and efficiency of use of the aerosol-generating article with an aerosol-generating device to provide separate experiences, the overall shape and size of the aerosol-generating article, the amount of material used to form the aerosol-generating article, and the structural rigidity of the aerosolgenerating article.

[0093] The first cavity and the second cavity may not be in fluid communication with one another. The aerosol-generating article may not comprise an airflow passage extend through both the first cavity and the second cavity. During use of the aerosol-generating article, air drawn into the first cavity may not also be drawn into the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may be configured to substantially prevent fluid communication between the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may substantially prevent fluid communication between the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0094] The cavity separating wall may be substantially air-impermeable.

[0095] The cavity separating wall may be formed from substantially air-impermeable material. The cavity separating wall may be formed from a cellulosic material. Preferably, the cavity separating wall is formed from paper, paperboard, or cardboard.

[0096] The first cavity and the second cavity may be in fluid communication with one another. The aerosol-generating article may comprise an airflow passage extending through both the first cavity and the second cavity. During use of the aerosol-generating article, air drawn into the first cavity may also be drawn into the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may be configured to provide fluid communication between the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0097] The cavity separating wall may extend along only a part of the length of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may extend along only a part of the length of each of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0098] The aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more holes or apertures provided through the width of the cavity separating wall. The one or more holes or apertures may provide fluid communication between the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0099] The cavity separating wall may be air-permeable. The cavity separating wall may be formed from air-permeable material.

[0100] The cavity separating wall may comprise or be formed from an aerosol-generating substrate, such as from a homogenised sheet of tobacco. The cavity separating wall may comprise or be formed from any aerosol-generating material described herein.

[0101] The cavity separating wall may extend along the entire thickness of both the first cavity and the second cavity. The cavity separating wall may have a thickness greater than or equal to the thickness of the first cavity. The cavity separating wall may have a thickness greater than or equal to the thickness of the second cavity.

[0102] The cavity separating wall may be located between a first planar external surface and a second planar external surface of the aerosol-generating article. The cavity separating wall may be located between a first planar external layer and a second planar external layer of the aerosol-generating article. The cavity separating wall may extend from a first planar external layer to a second planar external layer of the aerosol-generating article.

[0103] The aerosol-generating article comprises one or more aerosol-generating substrates.

[0104] At least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates may be located along the first airflow passage. At least one of the aerosol-generating substrates may be located in or adjacent to the first airflow passage. During use of the aerosol-generating substrate, aerosol-generating substrate located along, in or adjacent to the first airflow passage is heated and releases volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are then entrained in air in the first airflow passage. For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a first aerosolgenerating substrate positioned along the first airflow passage. For example, the aerosolgenerating article may comprise a first aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the first cavity.

[0105] At least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates may be located along the second airflow passage. At least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates may be located in or adjacent to the second airflow passage. During use of the aerosolgenerating substrate, aerosol-generating substrate located along, in or adjacent to the second airflow passage is heated and releases volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are then entrained in air in the second airflow passage. For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a second aerosol-generating substrate positioned along the second airflow passage. For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a second aerosolgenerating substrate positioned within the second cavity.

[0106] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article comprises a first aerosol-generating substrate positioned along the first airflow passage and a second aerosol-generating substrate positioned along the second airflow passage.

[0107] The first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may be substantially the same or identical. This may be desirable to provide the user with two substantially the same user experiences.

[0108] The first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may be different. The first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may differ in at least one property, such as the form, composition, flavour composition, aerosol former content, specific aerosol former content (such as glycerine content), and density thereof. This may be desirable to provide the user with two different user experiences. A user may be able to select which aerosol-generating substrate to heat for each experience.

[0109] Different aerosol-generating substrates may preferably be heated to different temperatures for desired release of volatile compounds. Providing different aerosol-generating substrates in different cavities may be a simple way to enable the different aerosol-generating substrates to be heated separately, for example to different temperatures or with different heating profiles. Where both the first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosolgenerating substrate are heated at the same time during use of the aerosol-generating article, aerosol generated by the first aerosol-generating substrate and aerosol generated by the second aerosol-generating substrate may mix before being delivered to the user. Heating the first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate to different temperatures or with different heating profiles may result in a desired overall composition of the aerosol delivered to a user during each puff.

[0110] The aerosol-generating article has a length extending in an x-direction. The aerosolgenerating article has a width extending in a y-direction. The aerosol-generating article has a thickness extending in a z-direction.

[0111] The aerosol-generating article may be a substantially flat aerosol-generating article or a substantially planar aerosol-generating article. In particular, a thickness of the aerosolgenerating article may be less than both a length and a width of the aerosol-generating article. For example, a thickness of the aerosol-generating article may less than 50 percent of both a length and a width of the aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, a smaller thickness may provide a small temperature gradient or difference across the thickness of the aerosolgenerating substrate during heating.

[0112] The aerosol-generating article may have a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape. The aerosol-generating article may have a rectangular prism shape. The aerosol-generating article may have a cuboid shape. The aerosol-generating article may have a cylindrical shape. The aerosol-generating article may have a right-angled cylinder shape.

[0113] The aerosol-generating article may have a laminated or layered structure, for example the aerosol-generating article may comprise or be formed from at least two layers. In particular, the aerosol-generating article may comprise at least two of: a first external layer, a second external layer, a frame, a first frame layer, a second frame layer, a third frame layer, a first aerosol-generating substrate layer, and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer as discussed in more detail below.

[0114] Substantially the entirety of the aerosol-generating article, excluding the one or more aerosol-generating substrates and (if present) adhesive, may be paper or cardboard.

[0115] The aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 5 percent. The aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 3 percent. The aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 1 percent.

[0116] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first planar external surface and a second planar external surface, which are discussed in more detail below.

[0117] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a frame. The frame may be located between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface.

[0118] The frame may at least partially define the first cavity. The frame may at least partially define the second cavity.

[0119] The frame may be a planar frame.

[0120] The frame may define at least a part of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The frame may define a frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame. The frame aperture may define or form one or both of the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage of the aerosol-generating article. The frame aperture may define or form at least a part of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the frame may have a hollow cuboid shape or a square hollow tube shape. As a further example, the frame may have a cross-section that is annular in shape, preferably the cross-section in an x / y plane is annular in shape.

[0121] The frame may comprise a frame outer surface. The frame outer surface may extend in a transverse direction, for example between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The frame outer surface may at least partially define or form one or more external surfaces of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the frame outer surface may at least partially define or form one or more external walls of the aerosol-generating article. The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture. The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the cavity.

[0122] The frame may comprise a frame inner surface. The frame inner surface may extend in a transverse direction, for example between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The frame inner surface may define or form a frame aperture outer wall. The frame inner surface may define or form one or both of an outer wall of the first cavity and an outer wall of the second cavity. The frame inner surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame. The frame inner surface may circumscribe or encircle both the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0123] The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame inner surface. The frame inner surface and the frame outer surface may be concentric with one another.

[0124] The aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more external walls extending between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The one or more external walls may collectively define an entire transverse external area of the aerosolgenerating article. The frame may at least partially define each of the one or more external walls. The one or more external walls may circumscribe or encircle both the first cavity and the second cavity. The frame may define at least 60 percent, at least 70 percent, at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent of the entire transverse external area of the aerosol-generating article.

[0125] The frame may comprise a peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle at least a portion of the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle at least a portion of one or both fo the first cavity and the second cavity. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle both the first cavity and the second cavity. The peripheral wall may be defined or formed by the frame outer surface and the frame inner surface. The peripheral wall may at least partially define or form one or more external surfaces or walls of the aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may define or form a frame aperture outer wall. The peripheral wall may define or form at least part of one or both of an outer wall of the first cavity and an outer wall of the second cavity. The peripheral wall may define or form one or both of an outer wall of the first cavity and an outer wall of the second cavity.

[0126] The peripheral wall may circumscribe or define at least a portion of one or both of the first cavity. The peripheral wall and the cavity separating wall may together circumscribe or define at least a portion of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0127] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness. The radial thickness may be defined as the minimum distance between the frame outer surface and the frame inner surface, such as in the x / y plane.

[0128] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres.

[0129] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres.

[0130] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 2.5 millimetres.

[0131] Advantageously, the peripheral wall having a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres has been found to provide good structural strength for the aerosolgenerating article whilst not using excess amounts of material which may increase manufacturing costs, and may limit the amount of heat that is undesirably transferred to the frame rather than the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0132] The peripheral wall may comprise a front wall and a back wall. The front wall is at the upstream end or first end of the peripheral wall. The back wall is at the downstream end or second end of the peripheral wall.

[0133] The front wall may define an upstream or first end of one or both the first cavity and the second cavity. The back wall may define a downstream or second end of one or both the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0134] The frame may be made from or comprise a biodegradable material. The frame may be made entirely from a biodegradable material.

[0135] The frame may be made from or comprise a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise a sheet of cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise cellulose fibres. The cellulosic material may be paper, paperboard, or cardboard. The frame may be made from or comprise a plant material, such as tobacco. The frame may be made entirely from a cellulosic material.

[0136] The aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more susceptor materials. The frame may comprise one or more susceptor materials. The one more susceptor materials may be in thermal contact with at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates. The one more susceptor materials may be in thermal contact with one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The one or more susceptor materials may be incorporated within the material of the frame. For example, the one or more susceptor material may be incorporated within the peripheral wall of the frame.

[0137] The one or more susceptor materials may be one or more particles, strips, threads, or wires of susceptor material. The one or more susceptor materials may be one or more sheets or layers of susceptor material. The one of more sheets or layers of susceptor material may be in the form of a mesh of susceptor material.

[0138] The susceptor material, in whatever form, may comprise one or more materials selected from the list consisting of: aluminium, iron and iron alloys, nickel and nickel alloys, cobalt alloys, stainless steel alloys, copper alloys, carbon, expanded carbon, and graphite.

[0139] The frame may have a thickness greater than or equal to 50 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness greater than or equal to 70 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness greater than or equal to 90 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness greater than or equal to 95 percent of the thickness of the aerosolgenerating article.

[0140] The frame may have a thickness less than or equal to 95 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness less than or equal to 90 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness less than or equal to 70 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article.

[0141] The frame may have a thickness between 50 percent of the thickness of the aerosolgenerating article and 95 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness between 70 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article and 95 percent of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article.

[0142] The frame may have a thickness greater than or equal to 1 millimetre, greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 4 millimetres. The frame may have a thickness less than or equal to 5.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, or less than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. The frame may have a thickness between 1 millimetre and 5.5 millimetres. Preferably, the frame may have a thickness between 1.5 millimetres and 5.5 millimetres.

[0143] The frame may have a length that is equal to the length of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a length that is at least 90 percent of the length of the aerosolgenerating article. The frame may have a length that is at least 95 percent of the length of the aerosol-generating article.

[0144] The frame may have a width that is equal to the width of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a width that is at least 90 percent of the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0145] The frame may be a unitary component. Alternatively, the frame may comprise two or more layers. That is, the frame may have a laminated structure. Advantageously, the properties of each layer may be individually optimised depending on the relative distance between the layer and aerosol-generating substrate or heater of the aerosol-generating device.

[0146] The frame may comprise a first frame layer and a second frame layer. The first frame layer and the second frame layer may be the only layers of the frame. That is, the frame may comprise no more than two layers or may comprise exactly two layers. The frame aperture may be defined through both the first frame layer and the second frame layer.

[0147] The frame may comprise a first frame layer, a second frame layer and a third frame layer. The second frame layer may be positioned between the first frame layer and the third frame layer. The first frame layer, the second frame layer and the third frame layer may be the only layers of the frame. That is, the frame may comprise no more than three layers or may comprise exactly three layers.

[0148] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise one or more aerosolgenerating substrate layers. As such, the aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more aerosol-generating substrate layers. Advantageously, an aerosol-generating substrate layer can be made thin and, therefore, quickly heat up and release volatile compounds to form an aerosol. Advantageously, an aerosol-generating substrate layer can be positioned close to a heater of an aerosol-generating device.

[0149] An aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. An aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. An aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0150] One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may be positioned between the frame and the first planar external surface. One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may be positioned between the frame and the second planar external surface. One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame.

[0151] One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may be positioned between the frame and the outer wrapper. The outer wrapper is discussed in more detail below. One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the outer wrapper.

[0152] One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may be positioned between the frame and the first planar external layer. One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may be positioned between the frame and the second planar external layer. The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer are discussed in more detail below. One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the first planar external layer. One or more aerosol-generating substrate layers may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the second planar external layer.

[0153] An aerosol-generating substrate layer may overlie one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may define or form a wall of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity; such as the first cavity top wall or the first cavity bottom wall or the second cavity top wall or the second cavity bottom wall. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating substrate layer may therefore be in, or at least partially define or form, the airflow passage thereby allowing released volatile compounds to quickly form an aerosol.

[0154] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise a first aerosolgenerating substrate layer and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer. Advantageously, a first and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer may allow rapid generation of a satisfactory volume of aerosol compared with using a single aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0155] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0156] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0157] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame and the first planar external surface. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame.

[0158] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame and the outer wrapper. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the outer wrapper.

[0159] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame and the first planar external layer. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the first planar external layer.

[0160] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame and the second planar external surface. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame.

[0161] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame and the outer wrapper. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the outer wrapper.

[0162] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame and the second planar external layer. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the second planar external layer.

[0163] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may overlie opposing ends of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may define or form opposing end walls of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. That is, the frame, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may collectively define one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0164] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise one or more upper aerosol-generating substrate layers and one or more lower aerosol-generating substrate layers. Advantageously, one or more upper aerosol-generating substrate layers and one or more lower aerosol-generating substrate layers may allow rapid generation of a satisfactory volume of aerosol compared with using a single aerosol-generating substrate layer. Features of the first aerosol-generating substrate layer discussed herein may be applicable to an upper aerosol-generating substrate layer of the aerosol-generating article. Features of the second aerosol-generating substrate layer discussed herein may be applicable to a lower aerosolgenerating substrate layer of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise an upper aerosol-generating substrate layer overlying an upper end of both the first cavity and the second cavity. The upper aerosolgenerating substrate layer may overlie a cavity separating wall of the aerosol-generating article. The upper aerosol-generating substrate may located between the frame and the first external planar surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0165] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a lower aerosol-generating substrate layer under a bottom end of both the first cavity and the second cavity. A cavity separating wall of the aerosol-generating article may overlie the lower aerosol-generating substrate layer. The lower aerosol-generating substrate may located between the frame and the second external planar surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0166] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer overlying the first cavity. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer overlying an upper end of the first cavity. The first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer may not extend over the second cavity. The first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer may be located between the frame and the first external planar surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0167] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a second upper aerosol-generating substrate layer overlying the second cavity. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a second upper aerosol-generating substrate layer overlying an upper end of the second cavity. The second upper aerosol-generating substrate layer may not extend over the first cavity. The second upper aerosol-generating substrate layer may be located between the frame and the first external planar surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0168] The first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second upper aerosolgenerating substrate layer may together be considered to form the first aerosol-generating substate layer discussed above. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise the first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second upper aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0169] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first lower aerosol-generating substrate layer under the first cavity. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first lower aerosolgenerating substrate layer under a bottom end of the first cavity. The second cavity may not extend over the first lower aerosol-generating substrate layer. The first lower aerosolgenerating substrate layer may be located between the frame and the second external planar surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0170] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a second lower aerosol-generating substrate layer under the second cavity. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a second lower aerosol-generating substrate layer under a bottom end of the second cavity. The first cavity may not extend over the second lower aerosol-generating substrate layer. The second lower aerosol-generating substrate layer may be located between the frame and the second external planar surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0171] The first lower aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second lower aerosolgenerating substrate layer may together be considered to form the second aerosol-generating substate layer discussed above. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise the first lower aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second lower aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0172] An aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness greater than or equal to 100 micrometres, greater than or equal to 200 micrometres, greater than or equal to 300 micrometres, greater than or equal to 400 micrometres, or greater than or equal to 500 micrometres.

[0173] An aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness less than or equal to 600 micrometres, less than or equal to 500 micrometres, less than or equal to 400 micrometres, less than or equal to 300 micrometres, or less than or equal to 300 micrometres.

[0174] An aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness between 100 micrometres and 600 micrometres, between 200 micrometres and 500 micrometres, between 200 micrometres and 400 micrometres, or between 200 micrometres and 300 micrometres.

[0175] An aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame. An aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the aerosol-generating article.

[0176] An first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the aerosol-generating article.

[0177] A second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame. A second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the aerosol-generating article.

[0178] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article. In such case, the aerosol-generating substrate layer may overlie or be located under both the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0179] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0180] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second upper aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width of about 50 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. One or both of the first lower aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second lower aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width of about 50 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0181] One or both of the first upper aerosol-generating substrate layer and the first lower aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width within 20 percent of a width of the first cavity, or within 10 percent of a width of the first cavity. One or both of the second upper aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second lower aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width within 20 percent of a width of the first cavity, or within 10 percent of a width of the second cavity.

[0182] The first planar external surface may be a planar upper surface and the second planar external surface may be a planar lower surface. The first planar external surface may be positioned parallel to the second planar external surface. The first planar external surface may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external surface may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external surface may be spaced from the first planar external surface in the z- direction or transverse direction. The distance between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface in the z-direction or transverse direction may define the thickness of the aerosol-generating article.

[0183] The aerosol-generating article may comprise an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper may be hydrophobic. The outer wrapper may comprise a hydrophobic material.

[0184] The outer wrapper may define or form the first planar external surface. The outer wrapper may define or form the second planar external surface. The outer wrapper may define or form both the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface.

[0185] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame. The outer wrapper may overlie opposing ends of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The outer wrapper may define or form opposing end walls of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity, such as the upper wall and lower wall of the first cavity, or the upper wall and the lower wall of the second cavity. That is, the frame and the outer wrapper may collectively define one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0186] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame and the aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0187] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0188] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first planar external layer and a second planar external layer. The first planar external layer may be an upper layer and the second planar external layer may be a lower layer.

[0189] The first planar external layer may define or form the first planar external surface. The first planar external layer may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external layer may define or form the second planar external surface. The second planar external layer may extend in the x / y plane.

[0190] The first planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame. The first planar external layer may overlie one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The first planar external layer may define or form a wall of the one or both the first cavity and the second cavity, such as a top wall of the first cavity or a top wall of the second cavity. Preferably, the first planar external layer extends over both the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0191] The second planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame. The second planar external layer may be located under one or of the first cavity and the second cavity. The second planar external layer may define or form a wall of one or both the first cavity and the second cavity, such as a bottom wall of the first cavity or a bottom wall of the second cavity. Preferably, the second planar external layer extends under both the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0192] The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may overlie opposing ends of one or both the first cavity and the second cavity. The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may define or form opposing end walls of one or both the first cavity and the second cavity, such as the upper and lower wall of the first cavity and the upper and lower wall of the second cavity. That is, the frame, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may define one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0193] The first planar external layer may be spaced, such as in a transverse direction, from the frame. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the first planar external layer and the frame. The first planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the aerosolgenerating substrate layer or the first aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0194] The second planar external layer may be spaced, such as in a transverse direction, from the frame. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the second aerosolgenerating substrate layer may be positioned between the second planar external layer and the frame. The second planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0195] The first planar external layer may be hydrophobic. The first planar external layer may comprise a hydrophobic material. The second planar external layer may be hydrophobic. The second planar external layer may comprise a hydrophobic material.

[0196] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may comprise, or be made from, a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may be paper, cigarette paper, tobacco paper, cardboard, wood, textile, natural fibres or artificial fibres.

[0197] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may be an aerosol-generating substrate comprising an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. In particular, the aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosolgenerating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosolgenerating material described herein. Alternatively, one or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may not comprise any aerosolgenerating material, particularly in embodiments comprising an aerosol-generating substrate layer, a first aerosol-generating substrate layer, a second aerosol-generating substrate layer, an aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the first cavity, or an aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the second cavity. One or more of the outer wrapper, the first or upper planar external layer and the second or lower planar external layer may be substantially nicotine-free.

[0198] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness greater than or equal to 25 micrometres, greater than or equal to 30 micrometres, greater than or equal to 35 micrometres, greater than or equal to 40 micrometres, or greater than or equal to 45 micrometres.

[0199] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness less than or equal to 55 micrometres, less than or equal to 50 micrometres, less than or equal to 45 micrometres, less than or equal to 40 micrometres, or less than or equal to 35 micrometres.

[0200] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness between 25 micrometres and 55 micrometres, between 25 micrometres and 45 micrometres, or between 30 micrometres and 45 micrometres.

[0201] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame. One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the aerosol-generating article.

[0202] One or more of the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame. One or more of the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0203] One or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may be substantially empty.

[0204] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate positioned within one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The aerosolgenerating substrate positioned within a cavity may fill the cavity.

[0205] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the first cavity. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a second aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the second cavity. Preferably, the aerosolgenerating article comprises a first aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the first cavity and a second aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the second cavity.

[0206] The first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may be substantially the same or identical. This may be desirable to provide the user with two substantially the same user experiences.

[0207] The first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may be different. The first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may differ in at least one property, such as the form, composition, flavour composition, aerosol former content, specific aerosol former content (such as glycerine content), and density thereof. This may be desirable to provide the user with two different user experiences. A user may be able to select which aerosol-generating substrate to heat for each experience.

[0208] Different aerosol-generating substrates may preferably be heated to different temperatures for desired release of volatile compounds. Providing different aerosol-generating substrates in different cavities may be a simple way to enable the different aerosol-generating substrates to be heated separately, for example to different temperatures or with different heating profiles. Where both the first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosolgenerating substrate are heated at the same time during use of the aerosol-generating article, aerosol generated by the first aerosol-generating substrate and aerosol generated by the second aerosol-generating substrate may mix before being delivered to the user. Heating the first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate to different temperatures or with different heating profiles may result in a desired overall composition of the aerosol delivered to a user during each puff. The packing density of the first aerosol-generating substrate may be different to the packing density of the second aerosol-generating substrate.

[0209] The aerosol-generating substrate positioned within one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. For example, the aerosolgenerating material may be in the form of shredded aerosol-generating material.

[0210] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. For example, the sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of homogenised tobacco material.

[0211] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may extend the entire length of a cavity, such as the first cavity or the second cavity. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may extend the entire width of a cavity.

[0212] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a gathered sheet of aerosolgenerating material. That is, the sheet of aerosol-generating material may be convoluted, folded, or otherwise compressed or constricted substantially perpendicular to the transverse direction of the aerosol-generating article.

[0213] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a crimped sheet of aerosolgenerating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a corrugated sheet of aerosol-generating material. The crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material or the corrugated sheet of aerosol-generating material may comprise a plurality of parallel corrugations. For example, the crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material may comprise a plurality of substantially parallel peaks and troughs.

[0214] The plurality of parallel corrugations may be defined by a corrugation profile, in which the corrugation profile is sinusoidal, or triangular, or rectangular, or trapezoidal, or toroidal, or parabolic.

[0215] The plurality of parallel corrugations may define, or form, a plurality of channels between the sheet of aerosol-generating material and one or more walls of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The plurality of channels may be a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. The plurality of channels may be a plurality of laterally extending channels. The plurality of channels may defined, or form, at least a portion of the airflow passage extending between the air inlet and air outlet of the aerosol-generating article.

[0216] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more organic materials such as tobacco, mint, tea and cloves. The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more of: herb leaf, tobacco leaf, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenised tobacco such as cast leaf, extruded tobacco, expanded tobacco, aerosol-generating films and gel compositions. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of shredded aerosol-generating material. The shredded aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more of: strips and strands of aerosol-generating material, such as strips and strands of tobacco or homogenised tobacco material. The shredded aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a shredded sheet of homogenised tobacco material.

[0217] The aerosol-generating material may be cut filler. The aerosol-generating material may be tobacco cut filler. As used herein, the term “cut filler” is used to describe to a blend of shredded plant material, such as tobacco plant material, including, in particular, one or more of leaf lamina, processed stems and ribs, homogenised plant material.

[0218] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. As used herein, the term “sheet” describes a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than the thickness thereof. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of plant material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of tobacco material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of homogenised tobacco material, such as a cast leaf sheet.

[0219] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more aerosol-formers. Suitable aerosol-formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, one or more aerosol-formers selected from: polyhydric alcohols, such as propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1 , 3-butanediol and glycerine; 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. It may be particularly preferable for the aerosol-former to be or comprise one or both of glycerine and propylene glycol. The aerosol former may consist of glycerine or propylene glycol or of a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol.

[0220] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content greater than or equal to 1 , 2, 5, 10, or 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. For example, where the aerosol-generating article comprises a first aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the first cavity and a second aerosol-generating substrate positioned within a second cavity, each of the first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may have an aerosol-former content greater than or equal to 1 , 2, 4, 10 or 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content greater than or equal to 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, for example greater than 20 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 25 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 30 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 40 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 50 by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content less than or equal to 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, less than or equal to 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or less than or equal to 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0221] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content between 5 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, between 5 percent and 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or between 5 percent and 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0222] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content between 10 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, between 10 percent and 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or between 10 percent and 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0223] The aerosol-generating material may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may comprise natural nicotine, or synthetic nicotine, or a combination of natural nicotine and synthetic nicotine.

[0224] The aerosol-generating material may comprise at least 0.5 percent by weight of nicotine, at least 1 percent by weight of nicotine, at least 1 .5 percent by weight of nicotine, or at least 2 percent by weight of nicotine. That is, the aerosol-generating material may have a nicotine content of at least 0.5 percent by weight, at least 1 percent by weight, at least 1.5 percent by weight, or at least 2 percent by weight.

[0225] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a plurality of beads. The plurality of beads may have an average particle diameter of between 0.1 mm and 4 mm, for example between 0.5 mm and 4 mm.

[0226] The term “bead” refers to a discrete, solid particle formed of the aerosol-generating substrate. A bead may have a rounded, typically spherical, form. Other terms may be used to define the substrate such as, for example, “granule”.

[0227] Providing the aerosol-generating material as a plurality of beads may provide certain advantages. Beads can be easily handled compared to other aerosol-forming substrates such as fine powders or cut filler. The beads flow easily, and so can reliably and consistently fill the cavity of the aerosol-generating article during manufacture. This may allow a consistent and reproducible amount of aerosol-forming substrate to be loaded into each article during manufacture. Beads may also be cleaner to handle than powders and cut fillers, which may cause dust in factories, and may leak from aerosol-generating articles in transit or in use. By selecting beads with appropriate bead sizes and appropriate particle size distributions, air flow through the cavity of the aerosol-generating article may be controlled more reproducibly than would be the case for, say, a cut filler substrate.

[0228] Where a particle is not perfectly spherical, but a diameter of the particle is referred to, the term “diameter” may refer to a largest dimension of the particle. Alternatively, the term “diameter” may refer to the diameter of a perfectly spherical particle having the same volume as the not perfectly spherical particle.

[0229] The term “average particle diameter”, as used herein, may refer to a number average particle diameter. Other methods of determining average particle diameter are known. Thus, the average particle diameter may be, for example, a volume average particle diameter.

[0230] The aerosol-generating material may be in form of a wrapped body of aerosolgenerating material, the wrapped body comprising a wrapper at least partially enclosing aerosol-generating material.

[0231] The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 15% and 100% of the interior volume of a cavity, such as the first cavity or the second cavity. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 30% and 100% of the interior volume of a cavity. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 100% of the interior volume of a cavity. The wrapped body of aerosolgenerating material may occupy between 50% and 80% of the interior volume of a cavity. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 70% of the interior volume of a cavity.

[0232] The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one air inlet. The aerosolgenerating article may comprise a single air inlet. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air inlets, such as two air inlets (a first air inlet and a second air inlet). In other words, the at least one air inlet may comprise a first air inlet and a second air inlet.

[0233] The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one air outlet. The aerosolgenerating article may comprise a single air outlet. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air outlets, such as two air outlets (a first air outlet and a second air outlet). In other words, the at least one air outlet may comprise a first air outlet and a second air outlet.

[0234] An, or each, air inlet may be located at the upstream or first end of the aerosolgenerating article. For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a single air inlet located at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise two air inlets (a first air inlet and a second air inlet) located at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, or extend through, a front wall of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a first air inlet and a second air inlet, wherein both the first air inlet and the second air inlet are defined by, or extend through, the front wall of the aerosol-generating article. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the frame. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by the peripheral wall of the frame. An, or each, air inlet may extend through the peripheral wall of the frame. An, or each, air outlet may be located at the downstream or second end of the aerosolgenerating article. For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a single air outlet located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise two air outlets (a first air outlet and a second air outlet) located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by , or extend through, a back wall of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosolgenerating article may comprise a first air outlet and a second air outlet, both the first air inlet and the second air inlet may be defined by, or extend through, the back wall of the aerosolgenerating article. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the frame. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by the peripheral wall of the frame. An, or each, air outlet may extend though the peripheral wall of the frame.

[0235] An, or each, air inlet may have a round cross-section, a circular cross-section, an oval cross-section, a square cross-section, or a rectangular cross-section. An, or each, air outlet may have a round cross-section, a circular cross-section, an oval cross-section, a square cross-section, or a rectangular cross-section.

[0236] An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external surface. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0237] An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external surface. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the aerosolgenerating substrate layer. An, or each, air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0238] An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external surface. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external surface. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the aerosolgenerating substrate layer. An, or each, air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0239] An, or each, air inlet may have an equivalent diameter greater than or equal to 0.1 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.4 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.7 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 1.0 millimetres. An, or each, air outlet may have an equivalent diameter greater than or equal to 0.1 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.4 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.7 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 1.0 millimetres.

[0240] An, or each, air inlet may have an equivalent diameter less than or equal to 3 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.7 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.4 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.1 millimetres, less than or equal to 1 .8 millimetres, or less than or equal to

[0241] 1 .5 millimetres. An, or each, air outlet may have an equivalent diameter less than or equal to 3 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.7 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.4 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.1 millimetres, less than or equal to 1 .8 millimetres, or less than or equal to

[0242] 1.5 millimetres.

[0243] An, or each, air inlet may have an equivalent diameter between 0.1 millimetres and 3 millimetres, between 0.1 millimetres and 2.4 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 2.1 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 1.8 millimetres, between 0.7 millimetres and 1.5 millimetres, or between 1.0 millimetres and 1.5 millimetres. An, or each, air outlet may have an equivalent diameter between 0.1 millimetres and 3 millimetres, between 0.1 millimetres and 2.4 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 2.1 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 1.8 millimetres, between 0.7 millimetres and 1.5 millimetres, or between 1.0 millimetres and

[0244] 1.5 millimetres.

[0245] An, or each, air inlet may have a width less than a width of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. This may particularly be the case where the aerosol-generating article comprises a plurality of air inlets. Each of the plurality of air inlets may have a width less than a width of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0246] An air outlet may have a width less than a width of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. This may particularly be the case where the aerosol-generating article comprises a plurality of air outlets. Each of the plurality of air outlets may have a width less than a width of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0247] An, or each, air inlet may have a thickness less than a thickness of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. An, or each, air outlet may have a thickness less than a thickness of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. An, or each, air inlet may have a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres. An, or each, air outlet may have a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres

[0248] An, or each, air inlet may have a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres. An, or each, air outlet may have a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres.

[0249] Preferably, an, or each, air inlet has a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres, and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres.

[0250] Preferably, an, or each, air outlet has a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres, and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres.

[0251] Advantageously, an aerosol-generating article having an air outlet or air inlet with a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres may provide for a relatively large inlet or outlet opening while allowing for improved retention of the aerosol-generating substrate within the aerosol-generating article. Improved retention of the aerosol-generating substrate within the aerosol-generating article may reduce the risk of aerosol-generating substrate falling out of the aerosol-generating article.

[0252] A ratio of the width to the thickness of an, or each, air inlet may be between 0.33 and 3. A ratio of the width to the thickness of an, or each, air inlet may be between 0.5 and 1 .5. A ratio of the width to the thickness of an, or each, air inlet may be between 0.75 and 1.25.

[0253] A ratio of the width to the thickness of an, or each, air outlet may be between 0.33 and 3. A ratio of the width to the thickness of an, or each, air outlet may be between 0.5 and 1.5. A ratio of the width to the thickness of an, or each, air outlet may be between 0.75 and 1.25.

[0254] As discussed above, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air inlets. One or each of the air inlets may have one or more of the features of the air inlet described herein.

[0255] As discussed above, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air outlets. One or each of the air outlets may have one or more of the features of the air outlet described herein.

[0256] Where the aerosol-generating article comprises a first air inlet and a second air inlet, preferably the first air inlet has substantially the same shape and size as the second air inlet. Where the aerosol-generating article comprises a first air outlet and a second air outlet, preferably the first air outlet has substantially the same shape and size as the second air outlet.

[0257] The aerosol-generating article comprises a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity. The aerosol-generating article comprising a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity. The first airflow passage may extend from an air inlet to an air outlet of the aerosolgenerating article. The first airflow passage may extend from an air inlet to an air outlet of the aerosol-generating article through the first cavity.

[0258] The second airflow passage may extend from an air inlet to an air outlet of the aerosolgenerating article. The second airflow passage may extend from an air inlet to an air outlet of the aerosol-generating article through the second cavity.

[0259] The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may extend from a same air inlet. This configuration may allow the aerosol-generating article to have a single air inlet, which may simplify the manufacturing process of the aerosol-generating article. Additionally, it may be simpler to align a single air inlet with an airflow conduit of an aerosol-generating device compared to aligning multiple air inlets with one or more airflow conduits in an aerosolgenerating device. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may extend from a same air inlet located at the upstream or first end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0260] The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may extend to a same air outlet. This configuration may allow the aerosol-generating article to have a single air outlet, which may simplify the manufacturing process of the aerosol-generating article. Additionally ,the use of a single air outlet for both the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may allow aerosol in the first airflow passage and aerosol in the second airflow passage to mix and homogenise before being delivered to a user. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may extend to a same air outlet located at the downstream or second end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0261] For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise an air inlet located at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article and an air outlet located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article, wherein the first airflow passage extends from the air inlet to the air outlet through the first cavity, and wherein the second airflow passage extends from the air inlet to the air outlet through the second cavity. In other words, the aerosolgenerating article may comprise an air inlet located at the upstream end of the aerosolgenerating article and an air outlet located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article, wherein the first airflow passage extend through the first cavity, wherein the second airflow passage extend through the second cavity, and wherein the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage both extend from the air inlet to the air outlet.

[0262] The air inlet may be the only air inlet located at the upstream end of the aerosolgenerating article. The air outlet may be the only air outlet located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a single air inlet at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article and a single air outlet at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article, wherein the first airflow passage extends from the air inlet through the first cavity to the air outlet, and wherein the second airflow passage extends from the air inlet through the second cavity to the air outlet.

[0263] The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may diverge, or split, downstream of the air inlet. This may be the case where the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage extend from a same air inlet. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may diverge, or split, immediately downstream of the air inlet. This may be the case where both the first cavity and the second cavity extend to the air inlet.

[0264] The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may merge upstream of the air outlet. This may be the case where the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage extend to a same air outlet. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may merge immediately upstream of the air outlet. This may be the case where both the first cavity and the second cavity extend to the air outlet.

[0265] The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may not extend from the same air inlet. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may not extend to the same air outlet. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may not extend from a same air inlet to a same air outlet. This may provide the aerosol-generating article with two cavities that are not in fluid communication to provide the user with two separate and independent user experiences. This may prevent cross-contamination between the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage. This may allow the first airflow passage and the first cavity to be used in a first smoking session or user experience and the second airflow passage and the second cavity to be used in a second smoking session or user experience, thereby providing a multi-use aerosol-generating article

[0266] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a first air inlet, a second air inlet, a first air outlet and a second air outlet. The first airflow passage may extend from the first air inlet to the first air outlet. The first airflow passage may extend from the first air inlet to the first air outlet through the first cavity. The second airflow passage may extend from the second air inlet to the second air outlet. The second airflow passage may extend from the second air inlet to the second air outlet through the second cavity.

[0267] The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may be parallel to one another along at least 75 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article, along at least 80 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article, along at least 90 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article, along at least 95 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article. The parallel portions of the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage are distinct airflow passages that are neither upstream nor downstream of each other. In some embodiments, the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage may be parallel to one another along the entire length of the aerosol-generating article. The first airflow passage may comprise a first airflow passage portion defined by, and positioned within, the first cavity. The second airflow passage may comprise a second airflow path portion defined by, and positioned within, the second cavity. The first airflow passage portion may be parallel to the second airflow passage portion.

[0268] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned downstream of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The aerosolgenerating article may comprise a filter element at least partially positioned within an, or each, air outlet. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned within, and may be positioned at a downstream end of, one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0269] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned upstream of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The aerosolgenerating article may comprise a filter element at least partially positioned within an, or each, air inlet. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned within, and may be positioned at an upstream end of, one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0270] The filter element may comprise one or more segments of a fibrous filtration material. Suitable fibrous filtration materials would be known to the skilled person. The filter element may comprise a cellulose acetate.

[0271] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article may be greater than 2:1 , greater than 5:1 , greater than 10:1 , greater than 12:1 , or greater than 15:1.

[0272] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article may be less than 15:1 , less than 12:1 , less than 10:1 , less than 5:1 , or less than 2.5:1

[0273] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article may be between 2:1 and 15:1 , between 2:1 and 12:1 , between 2:1 and 10:1 , or between 5:1 and 10:1.

[0274] A ratio between the length and the width of the aerosol-generating article may be greater than 0.5:1 , greater than 1 :1 , greater than 1.5:1 , greater than 2:1 , or greater than 2.5:1.

[0275] A ratio between the length and the width of the aerosol-generating article may be less than 5: 1 , less than 4: 1 , less than 2.5:1 , less than 2: 1 , less than 1.5:1 , or less than 1 :1.

[0276] A ratio between the length and the width of the aerosol-generating article may be between 0.5:1 and 5:1 , between 0.5:1 and 2.5:1 , between0.51 :1 and 2:1 , between 0.5:1 and 1.5:1 , between 1 :1 and 2:1 , or between 1 :1 and 1.5:1. The length of the aerosol-generating article may be greater than the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0277] The aerosol-generating article may have a length greater than or equal to 15 millimetres, greater than or equal to 20 millimetres, greater than or equal to 25 millimetres, greater than or equal to 30 millimetres, greater than or equal to 35 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 40 millimetres.

[0278] The aerosol-generating article may have a length less than or equal to 45 millimetres, less than or equal to 40 millimetres, less than or equal to 35 millimetres, or less than or equal to 30 millimetres.

[0279] The aerosol-generating article may have a length between 15 millimetres and 45 millimetres, between 20 millimetres and 40 millimetres, between 20 millimetres and 35 millimetres, or between 25 millimetres and 30 millimetres.

[0280] The aerosol-generating article may have a width greater than or equal to 6 millimetres, greater than or equal to 8 millimetres, greater than or equal to 10 millimetres, greater than or equal to 15 millimetres, greater than or equal to 18 millimetres, greater than or equal to 22 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 26 millimetres.

[0281] The aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 34 millimetres, less than or equal to 30 millimetres, less than or equal to 25 millimetres, less than or equal to 22 millimetres, or less than or equal to 18 millimetres.

[0282] The aerosol-generating article may have a width between 6 millimetres and 34 millimetres, between 10 millimetres and 30 millimetres, between 15 millimetres and 25 millimetres, or between 18 millimetres and 22 millimetres.

[0283] The width of the aerosol-generating article may be greater than both the length and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article.

[0284] The aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to1 millimetre, greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 4 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 4.5 millimetres.

[0285] The aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 5.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4 millimetres, less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 3 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, or less than or equal to 2 millimetres.

[0286] The aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 1.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 2 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres, between 2.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres, or between 3 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres. According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating device for receiving an aerosol-generating article as disclosed herein. The aerosol-generating device comprises a cavity dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be dimensioned to receive either a portion of the aerosol-generating article comprising the first cavity or a portion of the aerosol-generating article comprising the second cavity. The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be dimensioned to receive only one of the first cavity and the second cavity of the aerosolgenerating article.

[0287] The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be dimensioned to receive the entirety of the aerosol-generating article.

[0288] The aerosol-generating device comprises a heater or heating means, a power source for supplying power to the heater or heating means, and a controller to control a supply of power to the heater or heating means. The aerosol-generating device is configured to heat at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates to form an aerosol, for example an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat each of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates to form an aerosol, for example an inhalable aerosol.

[0289] The heater may be configured to substantively heat only one of: (i) aerosol-generating substrate or portions of aerosol-generating substrate associated with the first cavity and therefore with the first airflow passage of the aerosol-generating article, and (ii) aerosolgenerating substrate or portions of aerosol-generating substrate associated with the second cavity and therefore with the second airflow passage of the aerosol-generating article. This may be to provide a user with multiple experiences.

[0290] The heater may have a width substantially the same as one of the cavities of the aerosol-generating article. In other words, the heater may have a width substantially the same as the width of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity of the aerosol-generating article.

[0291] The heater may have a width within 20 percent of a width of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity. The heater may have a width within 10 percent of a width of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0292] The direction in which the width of the heater of the aerosol-generating device is measured corresponds to the y-direction of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosolgenerating article is received by the aerosol-generating device.

[0293] The heater may have a length substantially the same as one of the cavities of the aerosol-generating article. In other words, the heater may have a length substantially the same as the length one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity of the aerosol-generating article. According to the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating device as disclosed herein and an aerosol-generating article as disclosed herein. The system may comprise a plurality of such articles for use with the aerosolgenerating device.

[0294] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. The article may be heated in use to produce and deliver an inhalable aerosol to a consumer.

[0295] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating substrate” refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating, for example compounds which, in use, cool and condense to generate an aerosol.

[0296] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” refers to a device that, in use, interacts with, for example heats, an aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0297] As used herein, the term “planar” refers to a feature generally formed in a single Euclidean plane and not wrapped around or otherwise conformed to fit a curved or other non- planar shape. A planar surface may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane. A planar object may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane substantially more than in a third dimension perpendicular to the plane. More specifically, a planar object may extend in a first dimension and a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension at least two, five or ten times further than the object extends in a third dimension perpendicular to the first and second dimensions.

[0298] As used herein, the term “transverse” refers to a direction extending between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The transverse direction may also be referred to as the “z-di recti on”.

[0299] As used herein, the term “longitudinal” refers to a direction that is perpendicular to the transverse direction. For example, a direction between a front wall and a back wall of the aerosol-generating article. The longitudinal direction may also be referred to as the “x- di recti on”.

[0300] As used herein, the term “lateral” refers to a direction that is perpendicular to the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction. For example, a direction from a first side wall to a second side wall of the aerosol-generating article. The lateral direction may also be referred to as the “y-direction”.

[0301] As used herein, the term “thickness” refers to a maximum dimension of the aerosolgenerating article or a component of the aerosol-generating article in the transverse direction.

[0302] As used herein, the term “length” refers to a maximum dimension of the aerosolgenerating article or a component of the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. As used herein, the term “width” refers to a maximum dimension of the aerosolgenerating article or a component of the aerosol-generating article in the lateral direction.

[0303] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating article in relation to the direction in which the air or aerosol is transported through the aerosol-generating article during use. The “upstream end” of the aerosol-generating article, components of the aerosolgenerating article, or portions of components of the aerosol-generating article may be referred to as the “first end” or “distal end” or “front end” of the aerosol-generating article, components of the aerosol-generating article, or portions of components of the aerosol-generating article, respectively. The “downstream end” of the aerosol-generating article, components of the aerosol-generating article, or portions of components of the aerosol-generating article may be referred to as the “second end” or “proximal end” or “back end” of the aerosol-generating article, components of the aerosol-generating article, or portions of components of the aerosolgenerating article, respectively.

[0304] As used herein, the term “bulk density” may refer to the total weight of the aerosolgenerating substrate divided by the bulk volume of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0305] As used herein, the term “aerosol former” may refer to any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates formation of an aerosol. The aerosol may be a dense and stable aerosol. The aerosol may be substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating substrate or aerosol-generating article.

[0306] As used herein, the term “aerosol former content” may refer to aerosol former content in percent on a dry weight basis, unless otherwise specified.

[0307] As used herein, a "susceptor" refers to a conductive element that heats up when subjected to a changing magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents induced in the susceptor element and / or hysteresis losses.

[0308] As used herein, the term “hydrophobic” refers to a surface exhibiting water repelling properties. One useful way to determine this is to measure the water contact angle. The “water contact angle” is the angle, conventionally measured through the liquid, where a liquid / vapour interface meets a solid surface. It quantifies the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid via the Young equation.

[0309] As used herein, the term “equivalent diameter” of an opening or an aperture is used herein to denote the diameter of a circular opening or aperture having the same cross- sectional area as the opening or aperture.

[0310] The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non- exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein. EX1 : An aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating device having a length extending an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction, the aerosolgenerating article comprising one or more aerosol-generating substrates.

[0311] EX2: An aerosol-generating article according to EX1 , wherein the aerosol-generating article is a planar aerosol-generating article.

[0312] EX3: An aerosol-generating article according to EX1 or EX2 comprising a first cavity and a second cavity.

[0313] EX4: An aerosol-generating article according to EX3 comprising a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity.

[0314] EX5: An aerosol-generating article according to EX4, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the first airflow passage, and wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage.

[0315] EX6: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX5, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0316] EX7: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX6, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a width less than or equal to 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0317] EX8: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX7, wherein the sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity is greater than or equal to 70 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0318] EX9: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX8, wherein the sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity may be less than or equal to 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0319] EX10: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX9, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a width greater than or equal to 4.5 millimetres.

[0320] EX11 : An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX10, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a width less than or equal to 13 millimetres.

[0321] EX12: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX11 , wherein a width of the first cavity and a width of the second cavity are substantially the same. EX13: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX12, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0322] EX14: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX13, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a mid-point width less than or equal to 45 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0323] EX15: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX14, wherein the sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the mid-point width of the second cavity is greater than or equal to 50 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0324] EX16: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX15, wherein the sum of the mid-point width of the first cavity and the mid-point width of the second cavity is less than or equal to 95 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0325] EX17: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX16, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity have substantially the same thickness.

[0326] EX18: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX17, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 50 percent of a thickness of the aerosol-generating article.

[0327] EX19: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX18, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity have substantially the same length.

[0328] EX20: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX19, wherein one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity have a length greater than or equal to 50 percent of a length of the aerosol-generating article.

[0329] EX21 : An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX19, wherein the second cavity is offset from the first cavity in the y-direction.

[0330] EX22: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX20, wherein the second cavity is spaced apart from the first cavity in the y-direction.

[0331] EX22: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX21 , wherein the second cavity is spaced apart from the first cavity in the y-direction by greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres.

[0332] EX23: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX22, wherein the upstream end of the first cavity is longitudinally aligned with the upstream end of the second cavity, and the downstream end of the first cavity is longitudinally aligned with the downstream end of the second cavity.

[0333] EX24: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX23, wherein the upper end of the first cavity is aligned in the z-direction with the upper end of the second cavity, and the lower end of the first cavity is aligned in the z-direction with the lower end of the second cavity. EX25: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX23 comprising a cavity separating wall located between the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0334] EX26: An aerosol-generating article according to EX25, wherein the cavity separating wall extends along the entire length of one or both of the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0335] EX27: An aerosol-generating article according to EX25 or EX26, wherein the cavity separating wall may has a width greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres.

[0336] EX28: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX27, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are not in fluid communication with one another.

[0337] EX29: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX27, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are in fluid communication with one another.

[0338] EX30: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX4 to EX29 comprising a first aerosol-generating substrate located along the first airflow passage and a second aerosol-generating substrate located along the second airflow passage.

[0339] EX31 : An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX3 to EX30 comprising a first aerosol-generating substrate located within the first cavity and a second aerosolgenerating substrate located within the second cavity.

[0340] EX32: An aerosol-generating article according to EX30 or EX31 , wherein the first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate may be different.

[0341] EX33: An aerosol-generating article according to EX30 or EX31 , wherein the first aerosol-generating substrate and the second aerosol-generating substrate are substantially the same.

[0342] EX34: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX1 to EX33 comprising a first planar external surface and a second planar external surface.

[0343] EX35: An aerosol-generating article according to EX34 comprising a frame positioned between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface.

[0344] EX36: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX1 to EX35 comprising a front wall and a back wall.

[0345] EX37: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX1 to EX36 comprising at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet.

[0346] EX38: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX1 to EX37, comprising a single air inlet located at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article and a single air outlet located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article, wherein the first airflow passage extends from the air inlet to the air outlet through the first cavity, and wherein the second airflow passage extends from the air inlet to the air outlet through the second cavity.

[0347] EX39: An aerosol-generating article according to EX1 to EX37, comprising: a first air inlet, a second air inlet, a first air outlet, and a second air outlet, wherein the first airflow passage extends from the first air inlet to the first air outlet through the first cavity, and wherein the second airflow passage extends from the second air inlet to the second air outlet through the second cavity.

[0348] EX40: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX1 to EX39, wherein each of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates comprise at least 5 percent by weight of aerosol-former on a dry weight basis.

[0349] EX41 : An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX1 to EX40, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a laminated structure.

[0350] EX42: An aerosol-generating system comprising: an aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX1 to EX41 and an aerosol-generating device configured to heat at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates of the aerosol-generating article.

[0351] EX43: An aerosol-generating system according to EX42, wherein the aerosolgenerating device comprises a cavity dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the aerosolgenerating article, a heater, a power source for supplying power to the heater, and a controller to control a supply of power to the heater.

[0352] Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which:

[0353] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0354] Figure 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the aerosol-generating article of

[0355] Figure 1 ;

[0356] Figure 3 shows an exploded perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0357] Figure 4 shows an exploded perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0358] Figure 5 shows an exploded perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0359] Figure 6 shows cross-sectional view, in an x / y plane of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0360] Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device according to the present disclosure; and

[0361] Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generating device of Figure 7 in engagement with an aerosol-generating article of the present disclosure.

[0362] Figure 1 shows an aerosol-generating article 10 comprising a first planar external layer 24 forming a first planar external surface 21 , a second planar external layer 25 forming a second planar external surface 22, and a frame 50 positioned between the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25. The first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 both comprise an aerosol-generating substrate comprising an aerosol-generating material, namely tobacco. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments only one of the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate. Alternatively, or additionally, the aerosol-generating substrate may be positioned elsewhere within the aerosol-generating article 10.

[0363] The aerosol-generating article 10 has a length extending in the x-direction, a width extending in the y-direction and a thickness extending in the z-direction. The aerosolgenerating article 10 has a length of 30 millimetres, a width of 22 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.1 millimetres.

[0364] The aerosol-generating article 10 is substantially flat aerosol-generating article or substantially planar aerosol-generating article. In particular, the thickness of the aerosolgenerating article 10 is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the aerosolgenerating article. The aerosol-generating article 10 has a generally rectangular cuboid shape and a laminated structure formed by the first planar external layer 24, the frame 50 and the second planar external layer 25. The first planar external layer 24, the frame 50 and the second planar external layer 25 are bonded together with an adhesive, in particular guar gum, as discussed in more detail below in relation to Figure 2.

[0365] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1.

[0366] The frame 50 has a length of 30 millimetres, a width of 22 millimetres, and a thickness of 2.7 millimetres. The frame 50 is made from cardboard and defines a frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame 50. The frame aperture at least partially forms a first cavity 31 . The first cavity 31 has a length of 26 millimetres, a width of 6 millimetres, and a thickness of 2.7 millimetres. Therefore, the first cavity 31 has a volume of about 421.2 cubic millimetres. In this embodiment, the first cavity 31 is substantially empty. The frame aperture at least partially forms a second cavity 32. The second cavity 32 has a length of 26 millimetres, a width of 6 millimetres, and a thickness of 2.7 millimetres. Therefore, the second cavity 32 has a volume of about 421.2 cubic millimetres. In this embodiment, the second cavity 32 is substantially empty.

[0367] The second cavity 32 is offset and spaced apart from the first cavity 31. In particular, the second cavity 32 is spaced apart from the first cavity 31 in the y-direction by a cavity separating wall 55 of the aerosol-generating article. The first cavity 31 and the second cavity 33 are parallel to one another. The first cavity 31 and the second cavity are aligned in the x- direction. A first or upstream end of the first cavity 31 is longitudinally aligned with a first or upstream end of the second cavity 32. A second or downstream end of the first cavity 31 is longitudinally aligned with a second or downstream end of the second cavity 32.

[0368] The first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32 are not in fluid communication. As discussed below, airflow passages extending through the first cavity 31 may not also extend through the second cavity 32. The cavity separating wall 55 may be a part of the frame 50. The cavity separating wall 55 has a width or radial thickness of 2 millimetres, a length of 6 millimetres and a thickness of 2.7 millimetres. The cavity separating wall 55 is formed form an air-impermeable material.

[0369] The frame 50 has a frame inner surface 52 extending in the z-direction or the transverse direction between the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22. The frame inner surface 52 defines a part of both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32. The frame 50 has a frame outer surface 53 extending in the z-direction or the transverse direction between the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22. The frame outer surface 53 at least partially defines one or more external surfaces of the aerosol-generating article, such as the front wall 13 and the back wall 14.

[0370] The frame 50 comprises a peripheral wall 51 that circumscribes both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32. In more detail, the peripheral wall 51 is defined by the frame inner surface 52 and the frame outer surface 53. The peripheral wall 51 has a radial thickness, as measured between the frame inner surface 52 and the frame outer surface 53 in the x / y plane, of about 2 millimetres.

[0371] The first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 have a thickness of 200 micrometres and are in physical contact with the frame 50. The first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 are bonded to the frame with an adhesive 15. The first planar external layer 24 defines at least a portion of both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32. The second planar external layer 25 defines at least a portion of both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32.

[0372] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a first air inlet 16, a second air inlet 17, a first air outlet 18 and a second air outlet 19. The first air inlet 16, the second air inlet 17, the first air outlet 18 and the second air outlet 19 are each defined by, and extend through, the peripheral wall 51 of the frame 50. In particular, the first air inlet 16 and the second air inlet 17 are each defined by, and extend through, the front wall 13. The first air outlet 18 and the second air outlet 19 are each defined by, and extend through, the back wall 14. The first air inlet 16, a second air inlet 17, a first air outlet 18 and a second air outlet 19each have a rectangular cross-section, a width of 2 millimetres, and a thickness of 0.9 millimetres.

[0373] The first cavity 31 extends longitudinally from the first air inlet 16 to the first air outlet 18. The second cavity 32 extends longitudinally from the second air inlet 18 to the second air outlet 19.

[0374] A first airflow passage of the aerosol-generating article 10 extends from the first air inlet 16 to the first air outlet 18 through the first cavity 31. A second airflow passage of the aerosol-generating article 10 extends from the second air inlet 17 to the second air outlet 19 through the second cavity 32. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage are parallel to one another along the entire length of each of the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage.

[0375] The first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32 are not in fluid communication. During use of the aerosol-generating article, air drawn through the first cavity 31 is not drawn through the second cavity 32. Similarly, air drawn through the second cavity 32 is not drawn through the first cavity 31 . This may be such that air is drawn through only one of the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32 during a first use of the aerosol-generating article. For example, during the first use of the aerosol-generating article, air may be drawn through only the first cavity 31 , and only aerosol generated by aerosol-generating substrate or portions of aerosol-generating substrate associated with the first cavity 31 may be delivered to a user. During a subsequent second use of the aerosol-generating article, air may be drawn through only the second cavity 32, and only aerosol generated by aerosol-generating substrate or portions of aerosolgenerating substrate associated with the second cavity 32 may be delivered to a user.

[0376] An airflow passage extending through the first cavity 31 do not mix with an airflow passage extending through the second cavity 32. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage do not mix or merge.

[0377] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of an aerosol-generating article that is similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1 except that the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 do not comprise an aerosol-generating substrate. Instead, a first aerosol-generating substrate 41 is positioned within the first cavity 31 and a second aerosol-generating substrate 42 is positioned within the second cavity 32.

[0378] The first aerosol-generating substrate 41 comprises an aerosol-generating material in the form of tobacco cut filler and has an aerosol-former content of 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. As shown, the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 fills the entire volume of the first cavity 31. In the example of Figure 3, the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 has a packing density of about 0.87, a density of about 0.3 grams per cubic centimetre, and a mass of about 110 milligrams. In another example, the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 may have a different packing density, a different density and a different mass. For example, first aerosol-generating substrate 41 may have a packing density of 0.64, a density of 0.35 grams per cubic centimetre, and a mass of about 95 milligrams.

[0379] The second aerosol-generating substrate 42 comprises an aerosol-generating material in the form of tobacco cut filler and has an aerosol-former content of 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. As shown, the second aerosol-generating substrate 42 fills the entire volume of the first cavity 31 . In the example of Figure 3, the second aerosol-generating substrate 42 has a packing density of about 0.87, a density of about 0.3 grams per cubic centimetre, and a mass of about 110 milligrams. In another example, the second aerosol-generating substrate 42 may have a different packing density, a different density and a different mass. For example, first aerosol-generating substrate 42 may have a packing density of 0.64, a density of 0.35 grams per cubic centimetre, and a mass of about 95 milligrams.

[0380] In the example of Figure 3, the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 and the second aerosol-generating substrate 42 are substantially the same. In particular, the form, composition, density and packing density of the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 and the second aerosol-generating substrate 42 are each substantially the same. In another example, the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 and the second aerosol-generating substrate 42 may be different and differ in at least one property, such as the composition, density and packing density thereof.

[0381] Figure 4 shows an aerosol-generating article 10 similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1 except that the aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a single air inlet 11 located at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article 10 and a single air outlet 12 located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article 10. The air inlet 11 is defined by, and extend through, the front wall 13. The air outlet 12 is defined by, and extend through, the back wall 14.

[0382] Both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32 extend longitudinally from the air inlet 11 to the air outlet 12.

[0383] A first airflow passage of the aerosol-generating article 10 extends from the air inlet 11 to the air outlet 12 through the first cavity 31. A second airflow passage of the aerosolgenerating article 10 extends from the air inlet 11 to the air outlet 12 through the second cavity

[0384] 31. During use of the aerosol-generating article as part of an aerosol-generating system comprising a device, air may be drawn through both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity

[0385] 32.

[0386] Figure 5 shows an exploded view of an aerosol-generating article 10 that is similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 4 except that a first aerosol-generating substrate 41 is positioned within the first cavity 31 and a second aerosol-generating substrate 42 is positioned within the second cavity 32 as described in relation to Figure 3. Both of the aerosolgenerating substrate 41 and the aerosol-generating substrate 42 comprise an aerosolgenerating material in the form of tobacco cut filler and have an aerosol-former content of 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. As shown, the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 fills the entire volume of the first cavity 31. The second aerosol-generating substrate 42 fills the entire volume of the second cavity 42. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, preferably the first aerosol-generating substrate 41 and the second aerosol-generating substrate 42 are different.

[0387] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view, in an x / y plane of an aerosol-generating article 10. The cross-section is through a mid-point along the thickness of the aerosol-generating article 10. In other words, the cross-section is a cut half-way up the height or thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a first cavity 31 and a second cavity 32.

[0388] The second cavity 32 is offset from the first cavity 31 in the y-direction and spaced apart from the first cavity 31 in the x-direction. The first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32 each have a width greater than or equal to 50 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article. The first cavity and the second cavity 32 each have a mid-point width of greater than or equal to 50 percent of the width of the aerosol-generating article. The mid-point along the thickness of the aerosol-generating article 10 also corresponds to the mid-point along the thickness of each of the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32. As such, the mid-point width of each of the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32 corresponds to the width measured in the cross-sectional plane shown in Figure 6.

[0389] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a first aerosol-generating substrate 41 located in the first cavity 31 . The first aerosol-generating substrate 41 is wrapped in a wrapper. The first aerosol-generating substrate 41 substantially fills the first cavity 31.

[0390] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a second aerosol-generating substrate 42 located in the second cavity 32. The second aerosol-generating substrate 42 is wrapped in a wrapper. The second aerosol-generating substrate 42 substantially fills the second cavity 32.

[0391] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a frame 50 located between a first or top external planar surface (not shown) and a second or bottom planar external surface (not shown) of the aerosol-generating article 10. The frame 40 defines at least a portion of both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32. The frame encircles both the first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32.

[0392] The frame comprises a front wall 13 and a back wall 14. The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a first air inlet 16 defined by and extending through the front wall 13, and a second air inlet 17 defined by and extending through the front wall 13. The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a first air outlet 18 defined by and extending through the back wall 14, and a second air outlet 19 defined by and extending through the back wall 14.

[0393] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a first airflow passage extending from the first air inlet 16 to the first air outlet 18 through the first cavity 31 , and a second airflow passage extending from the second air inlet 17 to the second air outlet 19 through the second cavity 32.

[0394] The first cavity 31 and the second cavity 32 are not in fluid communication. The first airflow passage and the second airflow passage do not merge.

[0395] Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device 90 configured for use with an aerosol-generating article 10 described herein. The cross-sectional view is in a x / z plane. The cross-sectional view is not through the mid-point along the width of the aerosol-generating article 10. Instead, the cross-sectional view is an x / z plane through the first cavity 31 of the aerosol-generating article 10.

[0396] The aerosol-generating device 90 is an elongate aerosol-generating device extending between a proximal end 91 and a distal end 92. The aerosol-generating device 90 comprises a battery 93, a controller 94, a first heater 95 and a second heater 96 located within a housing 97. The controller 94 controls supply of power from the battery 93 to the first heater 95 and the second heater 96. A cavity 1000 is defined in the device 90, the cavity 1000 having an opening 1010 defined in the proximal end 91 of the device 90. The opening 1010 is rectangular in shape and is dimensioned to accommodate the transverse cross-section of the aerosolgenerating article 10. The cavity 1000 comprises an upper planar surface 1020 and a lower planar surface 1030. The first heater 95 is located in the upper planar surface 1020 to heat the first planar external surface 21 of an aerosol-generating article 10 inserted into the cavity 1000, and the second heater 96 is located in the lower planar surface 1030 to heat the second planar external surface 22 of an aerosol-generating article 10 inserted into the cavity 1000. The device 90 comprises an air inlet 98 defining an air-flow path configured to allow air to flow into the cavity 1000 from outside the device.

[0397] Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generating device 90 of Figure 7 in engagement with the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1. There is little tolerance between the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22 of the aerosol-generating article 10 and the internal surfaces 1020, 1030 of the cavity 1000. Thus, there is a snug fit between the aerosol-generating article 10 and the aerosol-generating device 90. When a consumer has inserted the aerosol-generating article 10 into the cavity 1000, the device can be operated. The first heater 95 heats the first planar external surface 21 of the aerosol-generating article 10 and the second heater 96 heats the second planar external surface 22 of the aerosol-generating article, and as a result the aerosol-generating substrate is heated. Volatile components of the aerosol-generating substrate are evaporated and condense in one or both of the first and second cavities 31 and 32 of the aerosolgenerating article 10 to form an aerosol. The consumer inhales the aerosol by drawing on the end of the aerosol-generating article 10 comprising the air outlet 12. Once the aerosolgenerating substrate has been depleted of volatile components, the aerosol-generating article 10 is removed from the cavity 1000 and disposed of.

[0398] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 10% of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

Claims1 . An aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-generating article being a planar aerosol-generating article defined by a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, a thickness extending in a z-direction, the aerosol-generating article comprising: one or more aerosol-generating substrates; a first cavity; a second cavity offset from the first cavity in the y-direction; a first airflow passage extending through the first cavity; and a second airflow passage extending through the second cavity, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substates is positioned along the first airflow passage, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates is positioned along the second airflow passage, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a mid-point width greater than or equal to 25 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article, the mid-point width of a cavity being measured in an x / y plane extending through a mid-point along the thickness of the cavity.

2. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 , wherein the second cavity is spaced from the first cavity in the y-direction.

3. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a width greater than or equal to 35 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

4. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sum of the width of the first cavity and the width of the second cavity is greater than or equal to 70 percent of a width of the aerosol-generating article.

5. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a width greater than 4.5 millimetres.

6. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a width of the first cavity and a width of the second cavity are the same.

7. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a thickness less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres.

8. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity each have a length greaterthan or equal to 14 millimetres.

9. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims comprising an air inlet and an air outlet, wherein the first airflow passage extends from the air inlet to the air outlet through the first cavity, and wherein the second airflow passage extends from the air inlet to the air outlet through the second cavity.

10. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 8 comprising: a first air inlet; a second air inlet; a first air outlet; and a second air outlet, wherein the first airflow passage extends from the first air inlet to the first air outlet, and wherein the first airflow passage extends from the second air inlet to the second air outlet.

11. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are not in fluid communication with one another.

12. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a cavity separating wall located between the first cavity and the second cavity, wherein the cavity separating wall defines at least a portion of the length of both the first cavity and the second cavity.

13. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 12, wherein the cavity separating wall extends along the entire length of both the first cavity and the second cavity14. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the cavity separating wall extends along the entire thickness of both the first cavity and the second cavity.

15. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more aerosol-generating substrates comprise a first aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the first cavity and a second aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the second cavity.

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