RU2836456C1 - Aerosol generating system with hybrid susceptor - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: smoking accessories.

SUBSTANCE: cartridge (10) for an aerosol generating system comprises liquid reservoir (40) for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate (42), current collector (12) in fluid communication with liquid reservoir (40), and current collector holder (14). Current collector (12) comprises current collector (16, 18) having heating area (24) and at least one attachment area (22). Heating area (24) comprises a first material, wherein the first material is a magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates into it. At least one attachment area (22) comprises a second material, wherein the second material is a non-magnetic material. At least one area (22) of fixation of current collector is in contact with holder (14) of current collector. Weight portion of the first material in heating area (24) is greater than the weight portion of the first material in at least one attachment area (22).

EFFECT: reduction of heat losses from the current collector (susceptor) to other parts of the cartridge without reducing heat transfer to the aerosol-forming substrate.

15 cl, 15 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system and a cartridge for the aerosol generating system. In particular, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating system having an induction heating unit and a cartridge for the aerosol generating system having an induction heating unit, wherein the cartridge comprises an aerosol forming substrate and a current collecting (susceptor) unit for heating the aerosol forming substrate.

Aerosol generating systems that use induction heating of an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user are generally known from the prior art. These systems typically comprise an aerosol generating device that includes an induction heating unit and a cartridge that contains an aerosol-forming substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds when heated, which are cooled to form an inhalable aerosol. The cartridge is configured to be connected to the aerosol generating device. The induction heating unit comprises at least one induction coil that is configured to generate an alternating magnetic field in the cavity. A current collector (susceptor), which is part of the cartridge or device, is located in close proximity to the aerosol-forming substrate and in the alternating magnetic field. When an alternating magnetic field penetrates the susceptor, the susceptor heats up due to at least one of Joule heating from induced eddy currents in the susceptor and hysteresis losses. The heated susceptor heats the aerosol-forming substrate, which causes the release of volatile compounds from the aerosol-forming substrate, which cool to form an inhalable aerosol.

One advantage of induction heating systems is that the electrical components of the system can be isolated from the aerosol-forming substrate and any aerosol generated. Another advantage is that the cartridge design can be simplified since there is no need to provide an electrical connection to the device.

Several configurations of the current collector (suspender) have been described in the prior art. In many of these configurations, portions of the current collector are in contact with other portions of the cartridge, such as the cartridge housing. This contact between the current collector and other portions of the cartridge requires that the other portions of the cartridge in contact with the current collector be designed to withstand the temperatures reached by the current collector (suspender) when it is heated. The contact between the current collector (suspender) and other portions of the cartridge may also result in heat being removed from the current collector (suspender), reducing the efficiency of the system in heating the aerosol-forming substrate.

It would be desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating system with a susceptor assembly that minimizes heat loss from the susceptor to other parts of the cartridge without reducing heat transfer to the aerosol generating substrate.

According to the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generating system is provided. The cartridge may comprise a liquid reservoir intended to hold a liquid substrate that forms an aerosol. The cartridge may further comprise a current collector (suspender) unit in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. The current collector (suspender) unit may comprise a current collector (suspender) element. The current collector (suspender) element may comprise a heating region comprising a first material. The first material may be a magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it. The current collector (suspender) element may further comprise at least one fastening region comprising a second material. The second material may be a non-magnetic material. The cartridge may further comprise a current collector (suspender) holder. At least one fastening region of the current collector (suspender) element may be in contact with the current collector holder. The proportion by weight of the first material in the heating region may be greater than the proportion by weight of the first material in at least one fastening region.

Advantageously, providing the current-collecting (suspender) element with regions formed from different materials can allow different regions of the current-collecting (suspender) element to have different properties. This can allow the current-collecting (suspender) element to maximize heat loss in some regions and minimize heat loss in other regions.

Advantageously, providing the current-collecting (suspender) element with a region containing a non-magnetic material can reduce heating of the current-collecting (suspender) element in the region containing the non-magnetic material, compared to other regions of the current-collecting (suspender) element that contain magnetic material.

Advantageously, providing the current-collecting (suspender) element with a region containing a lower proportion by weight of magnetic material than other regions of the current-collecting (suspender) element can reduce heating of the current-collecting element in the region with a lower proportion by weight of magnetic material compared to other regions of the current-collecting element containing a higher proportion by weight of magnetic material.

Advantageously, providing the current collecting element with at least one fastening region containing a non-magnetic material and a lower proportion by weight of magnetic material compared to the heating region of the current collecting element, wherein at least one fastening region is in contact with the current collecting element holder, can allow the fastening region in contact with the current collecting element holder to exhibit less heating from the penetration of an alternating magnetic field compared to the heating region and can minimize heat loss from the current collecting element to the current collecting element holder.

The cartridge comprises a current-collecting unit. The current-collecting unit comprises a current-collecting element. The current-collecting unit may further comprise a wick element. The wick element may be in fluid communication with the current-collecting element. The wick element may be in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. The wick element may be configured to supply an aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir to the current-collecting element. In particular, the wick element may be configured to supply an aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir through the main surface of the current-collecting element. The current-collecting element may be attached to the wick element. The current-collecting element may be formed as a single unit with the wick element. Providing the wick element may improve wetting of the current-collecting element and thus increase aerosol generation by the system. The wick element can make it possible to manufacture the current collecting element from materials that by themselves do not provide good wicking or wetting properties.

In some embodiments, the current collecting unit comprises a plurality of current collecting elements. When the current collecting unit comprises a plurality of current collecting elements and a wick element, each current collecting element may be arranged in fluid communication with the wick element. In some embodiments, the current collecting unit comprises a plurality of current collecting elements and a plurality of wick elements.

In some preferred embodiments, the current collecting unit comprises a first current collecting element and a second current collecting element, wherein the second current collecting element is located at a distance from the first current collecting element. The wick element may be located in the space between the first current collecting element and the second current collecting element. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the first current collecting element, the second current collecting element and the wick element are substantially flat, and the first current collecting element is located on the first side of the flat wick element, and the second current collecting element is located on the second side of the flat wick element, opposite to the first side.

Preferably, the current collecting unit is arranged substantially outside the liquid reservoir. In particular, said or each current collecting element of the current collecting unit may be arranged substantially outside the liquid reservoir. Preferably, at least a portion of the main surfaces of said or each current collecting unit is not in direct contact with the liquid reservoir. Preferably, at least a portion of two opposite main surfaces of the current collecting unit is in direct contact with air in the air flow passage in the cartridge.

The current collecting element of the current collecting unit comprises a heating region and at least one fastening region. At least one fastening region is in contact with the current collecting holder. In the context of this document, the term "contact" means both direct contact and indirect contact.

Preferably, at least one fastening region is in direct contact with the current collector holder. In the context of the present document, the term "direct contact" means contact between two components without any intermediate material, so that the surfaces of the two components are in contact with each other.

At least one fastening area may be in indirect contact with the current collector holder. In the context of this document, the term "indirect contact" means contact between two components by means of one or more intermediate materials located between the two components so that the surfaces of the two components do not come into contact with each other. For example, at least one fastening area is in indirect contact with the current collector element when an adhesive layer is provided between the surface of at least one fastening area and the surface of the current collector holder.

In some preferred embodiments, at least one attachment region may extend into the liquid reservoir. In some preferred embodiments, the heating region of the susceptor element may be located outside the liquid reservoir. Advantageously, the arrangement of the susceptor element substantially outside the liquid reservoir, and especially the arrangement of the heating region of the susceptor element outside the liquid reservoir, may ensure that the aerosol-forming substrate is heated sufficiently to release the volatile compounds only after the aerosol-forming substrate has been moved outside the liquid reservoir. This may facilitate the release of the volatile compounds from the aerosol-generating system.

In the context of this document, "current collecting element" means an element capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it. The current collecting element is typically capable of heating by at least one of Joule heating due to the induction of eddy currents in the current collecting element and hysteresis losses.

The current-receiving element comprises a fastening area. The heating area is an area of the current-receiving element that is designed with the possibility of heating to a temperature necessary for evaporation of the substrate forming the aerosol when a suitable alternating magnetic field penetrates it. The heating area is designed with the possibility of heating to a significantly higher temperature than the fastening area in the presence of an alternating magnetic field.

The heating region comprises a first material. The first material is a magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it. The term "magnetic material" is used herein to describe a material capable of interacting with a magnetic field, including both paramagnetic and ferromagnetic materials. The first material may be any suitable magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it. In some preferred embodiments, the first material comprises ferritic stainless steel. Suitable ferritic stainless steels include AISI 400 series stainless steels, such as AISI 409, 410, 420 and 430 type stainless steels.

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

The current-collecting element additionally comprises at least one fastening region. At least one fastening region of the current-collecting element is a region of the current-collecting element that is designed with the possibility of coming into contact with the current-collecting element holder.

At least one fastening region comprises a second material. The second material is a non-magnetic material. The term "non-magnetic material" is used herein to describe a material that does not interact with a magnetic field and is not capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it. The second material can be any suitable non-magnetic material. In some embodiments, the second material is a non-magnetic metal. For example, the second material can be a non-magnetic austenitic stainless steel. Suitable austenitic stainless steels include AISI 300 series stainless steels, such as AISI 304, 309 and 316 type stainless steels.

The current collector holder may be in contact with the second material in at least one area of fastening of the current collector element. The current collector holder may contact the current collector element only on the second material. Advantageously, providing contact between the current collector holder and the current collector element on the second material may help to minimize heat transfer from the current collector element to the current collector holder.

In some embodiments, the second material is non-metallic. For example, the second material may be a ceramic material.

In some embodiments, the second material is an electrically conductive material. As used herein, an "electrically conductive" material means a material having a volume resistivity at 20 degrees Celsius (°C) of less than about 1× ^10-5 ohm-meters (Ohm m), typically from about 1× ^10-5 ohm-meters (Ohm m) to about 1× ^10-9 ohm-meters (Ohm m). Suitable electrically conductive materials include metals, alloys, electrically conductive ceramics, and electrically conductive polymers. Suitable electrically conductive materials may include gold and platinum.

In some embodiments, the second material is an electrically insulating material. Advantageously, the electrically insulating second material can help minimize heat transfer from the current collector element to the current collector holder. In the context of this document, "electrically insulating" material means a material having a volume resistivity at 20 degrees Celsius (°C) greater than about 1×10 ⁶ ohm-meters (Ohm⋅m), typically from about 1×10 ⁹ ohm-meters (Ohm⋅m) to about 1×10 ²¹ ohm-meters (Ohm⋅m). Suitable electrically insulating materials include glasses, plastics, and some ceramic materials.

In some embodiments, the second material is a thermally insulating material. The advantageously thermally insulating second material can help minimize heat transfer from the current collector element to the current collector holder. As used herein, the term "thermally insulating" refers to a material having a bulk thermal conductivity of less than about 5 watts per meter-Kelvin (mW/(m⋅K)) at 23°C and 50% relative humidity, as measured using a modified transient flat source (MTPS) method.

In some embodiments, the second material is a thermally conductive material. As used herein, the term "thermally conductive" refers to a material having a bulk thermal conductivity of at least about 10 watts per meter Kelvin (mW/(m⋅K)) at 23°C and 50% relative humidity, as measured using a modified transient plane source (MTPS) method.

In some embodiments, the second material may be a hydrophilic material. In some embodiments, the second material may be an oleophilic material. Advantageously, providing a hydrophilic second material or an oleophilic second material may promote transport of the aerosol-forming substrate through the current collecting element.

In some embodiments, the second material comprises a cellulosic material. For example, the second material may comprise viscose.

In some preferred embodiments, at least one fastening region comprises the second material. However, in other embodiments, at least one fastening region comprises the second material and one or more other materials. When at least one fastening region comprises the second material and one or more other materials, the at least one fastening region may comprise any suitable proportion of the second material. For example, at least one fastening region of the current collecting element may comprise: at least 10 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 20 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 30 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 40 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 50 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 60 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 70 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 80 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 90 percent by weight of the second material.

At least one fastening region may contain the first material. However, at least one fastening region contains a smaller proportion of the first material than the heating region. The proportion by weight of the first material in the heating region is greater than the proportion by weight of the first material in at least one fastening region. For example, the heating region of the current-receiving element may contain at least 90 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-receiving element may contain less than 10 percent by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the current-receiving element may contain at least 80 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-receiving element may contain less than 20 percent by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the current-receiving element may contain at least 70 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-receiving element may contain less than 30 percent by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the current-receiving element may contain at least 60 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-receiving element may contain less than 40 percent by weight of the first material, or the heating region of the current-receiving element may contain at least 50 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-receiving element may contain less 50 percent by weight of the first material.

At least one fastening region may comprise: 90 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 80 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 70 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 60 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 50 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 40 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 30 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 20 percent or less by weight of the first material, or 10 percent or less by weight of the first material.

At least one fastening region may comprise: at least 10 percent by weight of the second material and less than 90 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 20 percent by weight of the second material and less than 80 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 30 percent by weight of the second material and less than 70 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 40 percent by weight of the second material and less than 60 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 50 percent by weight of the second material and less than 50 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 60 percent by weight of the second material and less than 40 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 70 percent by weight of the second material and less than 30 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 80 percent by weight of the second material and less than 20 percent by weight of the first material, or at least 90 percent by weight of the second material and less than 10 percent by weight of the first material.

The heating region may comprise a second material. For example, the heating region may comprise: 90 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 80 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 70 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 60 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 50 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 40 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 30 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 20 percent or less by weight of the second material, or 10 percent or less by weight of the second material.

The heating region may contain: at least 10 percent by weight of the first material and less than 90 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 20 percent by weight of the first material and less than 80 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 30 percent by weight of the first material and less than 70 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 40 percent by weight of the first material and less than 60 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 50 percent by weight of the first material and less than 50 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 60 percent by weight of the first material and less than 40 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 70 percent by weight of the first material and less than 30 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 80 percent by weight of the first material and less than 20 percent by weight of the second material, or at least 90 percent by weight of the first material and less than 10 percent by weight of the second material.

The heating region may comprise any suitable proportion of the current-receiving element. For example, the heating region may comprise at least 90 percent of the surface area of the current-receiving element, at least 80 percent of the surface area of the current-receiving element, or at least 70 percent of the surface area of the current-receiving element. The heating region may have any suitable size and shape for heating the aerosol-forming substrate at the necessary rate for generating the desired amount of inhalable aerosol.

At least one fastening region may comprise any suitable proportion of the current-receiving element. Typically, at least one fastening region comprises a smaller proportion of the current-receiving element than the heating region. For example, at least one fastening region may comprise 10 percent or less of the surface area of the current-receiving element, or 20 percent or less of the surface area of the current-receiving element, or 30 percent or less of the surface area of the current-receiving element. At least one fastening region may have any suitable size and shape to ensure a strong connection between the current-receiving element and the current-receiving holder.

In some embodiments, at least one fastening region is located adjacent to the periphery of the heating region, wherein the heating region has a length and a width, and at least one fastening region has a length and a width. Preferably, the length of at least one fastening region is less than the length of the heating region. In some embodiments, the length of at least one fastening region is no more than half the length of the heating region. In some embodiments, the length of at least one fastening region is no more than a quarter of the length of the heating region. Preferably, the width of at least one fastening region is less than the width of the heating region. In some embodiments, the width of at least one fastening region is no more than half the width of the heating region. In some embodiments, the width of at least one fastening region is no more than a quarter of the width of the heating region.

In the context of this document, the term "length" refers to a main dimension in the longitudinal direction of an element or part of an element, such as a cartridge, a current collector assembly, a current collector element, a heating region and at least one fastening region. In the context of this document, the length of an element refers to a main dimension in the longitudinal direction of the element, measured from one outer surface or edge of the element to the opposite outer surface or edge of the element. For example, if the element is arc-shaped and the longitudinal direction extends radially with respect to the arc and through the apex of the arc, the length of the element is defined as the distance between one end of the arc and the apex of the arc, measured in the longitudinal direction. For example, if the element is arc-shaped and the longitudinal direction extends radially with respect to the arc and through both ends of the arc, the length of the element is defined as the distance between the outer edges of both ends of the arc, measured in the longitudinal direction.

In the context of this document, the term "width" refers to the main dimension in the transverse direction of the element. The transverse direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In the context of this document, the width of an element refers to the main dimension in the transverse direction of the element, measured from one outer surface or edge of the element to the opposite outer surface or edge of the element.

In the context of this document, the term "thickness" refers to the dimension in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction.

In some embodiments, at least one fastening region is attached to the current collector holder. At least one fastening region may be attached to the current collector holder by means of adhesive.

At least one area of fastening of the current-receiving element may be located in any suitable position relative to the heating area of the current-receiving element. In some preferred embodiments, at least one area of fastening of the current-receiving element is located on the periphery of the current-receiving element. For example, at least one area of fastening may be located on one side of the current-receiving element.

In some preferred embodiments, at least one fastening region comprises a plurality of fastening regions. The current collecting element may comprise any suitable number of fastening regions. For example, the current collecting element may comprise one, two, three, four, five or six fastening regions. Advantageously, providing the current collecting element with a plurality of fastening regions may allow the current collecting element holder to provide more reliable support for the current collecting element compared to a current collecting element having a single fastening region.

In some embodiments, the plurality of attachment regions may include a first attachment region and a second attachment region, wherein the first attachment region is located on one side of the current-receiving element, and the second attachment region is located on the same side of the current-receiving element as the first attachment region. In some of these embodiments, the first attachment region is located on the first end of the current-receiving element, and the second attachment region is located on the second end of the current-receiving element, opposite the first end.

In some embodiments, the plurality of fastening regions include a first fastening region and a second fastening region, wherein the first fastening region is located on the first side of the current-receiving element, and the second fastening region is located on the second side of the current-receiving element, opposite to the first side. In some of these embodiments, the heating region has a length, and the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located in the same position along the length of the heating region. In some of these embodiments, the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located at one end of the current-receiving element. In some of these embodiments, the heating region has a length, and the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located in the center along the length of the heating region. In some of these embodiments, the heating region has a length, and the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located in different positions along the length of the heating region. In some of these embodiments, the first fastening region is located on the first end of the current-receiving element, and the second fastening region is located on the second end of the current-receiving element, opposite to the first end.

In some preferred embodiments, the plurality of fastening regions include a first fastening region and a second fastening region, wherein the second fastening region is located opposite the first fastening region.

In some preferred embodiments, the plurality of attachment regions includes: a first pair of attachment regions located at the first end of the current-receiving element on opposite sides of the current-receiving element; and a second pair of attachment regions located at the second end of the current-receiving element on opposite sides of the current-receiving element, wherein the second end of the current-receiving element is opposite the first end.

In some embodiments, the plurality of attachment regions includes a plurality of pairs of attachment regions, wherein each pair of attachment regions includes a first attachment region located on the first side of the current-receiving element and a second attachment region located on the second side of the current-receiving element, wherein the second side of the current-receiving element is opposite the first side of the current-receiving element.

In some embodiments, the plurality of fastening regions includes a plurality of pairs of fastening regions, wherein each pair of fastening regions includes a first fastening region and a second fastening region, wherein the second fastening region is located opposite the first fastening region.

The current collecting element may take any suitable form. The current collecting element may comprise, for example, a mesh, a flat spiral coil, fibers, or fabric. In some embodiments, the current collecting element may comprise a sheet or strip.

In some preferred embodiments, the current collecting element is substantially flat. The current collecting element may be flat. In other words, the current collecting element may extend generally in a plane. The current collecting element may be flat. The current collecting element may be thin. In other words, the current collecting element may have a thickness dimension that is substantially smaller than the width and length dimensions of the current collecting element.

The thickness of the current collector element is preferably 2-10 times greater than the depth of the surface layer of the current collector material at the operating frequency of the system. When using several layers of the current collector, a thickness greater than the depth of the surface layer minimizes the interaction between the different layers of the current collector. The fact that the layers of the current collector are less than 10 times greater than the depth of the surface layer ensures that there is no excessive mass of the current collector material for heating. Preferably, the current collector assembly or the heating element assembly has a thickness of no more than 2 mm. This allows the heating element or heating elements to be placed inside and cover a small channel for the air flow.

At least a portion of the current-collecting element may be fluid-permeable. In some embodiments, the current-collecting element is fluid-permeable. In the context of the present document, a "fluid-permeable" element means an element that allows a liquid or gas to penetrate through it. The current-collecting element may have a plurality of openings formed therein to allow a fluid to pass through it. In particular, the current-collecting element may allow an aerosol-forming substrate, either in a gaseous phase or in both a gaseous and a liquid phase, to penetrate through it.

In some preferred embodiments, the current collecting element may comprise a mesh. The current collecting element may comprise an array of threads that form a mesh. In the context of the present document, the term "mesh" includes grids and arrays of threads that have spaces between them. The term "mesh" also includes woven and non-woven materials.

The threads may form spaces between the threads, and the spaces may have a width of 10 micrometers to 100 micrometers. Preferably, the threads cause capillary action in the spaces so that, in use, the original liquid is drawn into the spaces, increasing the contact area between the current collecting element and the liquid.

The yarns may form a mesh of 160 to 600 US mesh (+/- 10%) (i.e., 160 to 600 threads per inch (+/- 10%)). The width of the spaces may be 35 micrometers to 140 micrometers or 25 micrometers to 75 micrometers. For example, the width of the spaces may be 40 micrometers or 63 micrometers. The percentage of open area of the mesh, which is the ratio of the area of the spaces to the total area of the mesh, is preferably 25% to 56%. The mesh may be formed using different types of woven or lattice structures. Alternatively, the yarns consist of an array of yarns arranged parallel to each other.

The filaments may be formed by etching a sheet material such as foil. This may be particularly advantageous when the heating unit comprises an array of parallel filaments. If the heating element comprises a mesh or woven material of filaments, the filaments may be produced individually and knitted together.

Preferably, the mesh is sintered. The fibers of the mesh may be sintered together. Advantageously, sintering the mesh creates electrical connections between the threads running in different directions. In particular, when the mesh comprises one or more woven and non-woven materials, it is advantageous for the mesh to be sintered to create electrical connections between the overlapping threads.

The mesh may also be characterized by its ability to retain liquid, as is well known in the art.

The mesh threads may have a diameter of 8 micrometers to 100 micrometers, 30 micrometers to 100 micrometers, 8 micrometers to 50 micrometers, or 8 micrometers to 39 micrometers. The mesh threads may have a diameter of 50 micrometers.

The threads of the mesh may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the threads may have a circular cross-section or may have a flattened cross-section.

Advantageously, the mesh current collecting element may have a relative permeability of 1 to 40,000. When it is desired to ensure that eddy currents are used for most of the heating, a material with a lower permeability may be used, and when hysteresis effects are desired, a material with a higher permeability may be used. Preferably, the material has a relative permeability of 500 to 40,000. This can ensure effective heating of the current collecting element.

When the current collecting element comprises a grid, the heating region may comprise threads of the first material. In some embodiments, the heating region may comprise threads of the first material and threads of the second material. The heating region may comprise threads of the first material in the first direction and threads of the second material in the second direction, different from the first direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a mesh, at least one fastening region may comprise threads of a second material. In some embodiments, at least one fastening region may comprise threads of a first material and threads of a second material. At least one fastening region may comprise threads of a first material in a first direction and threads of a second material in a second direction different from the first direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a mesh, the mesh may be woven. The woven mesh comprises threads in the weft direction and threads in the warp direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may comprise threads of the second material in the weft direction. The current collecting element holder may be in contact with the current collecting element in at least one fastening region on the threads running in the weft direction. The current collecting element holder may be in contact with the current collecting element in at least one fastening region only on the threads running in the weft direction and not in contact with the threads running in the warp direction. Advantageously, the formation of the threads running in the weft direction from the second material in at least one fastening region may reduce the heat transfer from the current collecting element to the current collecting element holder in comparison with a current collecting element having threads in the weft direction formed from the first material in at least one fastening region.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may comprise threads from a first material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction, and at least one fastening region may comprise threads from a second material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may consist of threads from a first material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction, and at least one fastening region may consist of threads from a second material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may comprise threads from a first material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction, and at least one fastening region may comprise threads from a second material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may consist of threads from a first material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction, and at least one fastening region may consist of threads from a second material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may comprise threads from the first material in the weft direction and threads from the first material in the warp direction, and at least one fastening region may comprise threads from the first material in the weft direction and threads from the second material in the warp direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may consist of threads from the first material in the weft direction and threads from the first material in the warp direction, and at least one fastening region may consist of threads from the first material in the weft direction and threads from the second material in the warp direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may comprise threads from the first material in the warp direction and threads from the first material in the weft direction, and at least one fastening region may comprise threads from the first material in the warp direction and threads from the second material in the weft direction.

When the current collecting element comprises a woven mesh, at least one fastening region may consist of threads from the first material in the warp direction and threads from the first material in the weft direction, and at least one fastening region may consist of threads from the first material in the warp direction and threads from the second material in the weft direction.

The current collecting unit may be surrounded by a permeable electrically insulating coating. The coating may comprise or consist of a permeable ceramic material. When the current collecting unit comprises a coating, it may be a coating that holds the components of the current collecting unit together so that the components are fixed together. The coating may advantageously improve the strength and stability of the current collecting unit. The provision of the coating may be carried out instead of the holder, which is described above, or in addition to it. The coating may comprise aluminum oxide (Al ₂ O ₃ ) or a silicon-based ceramic material. The coating may have a porosity of approximately 30 percent.

The current-collecting unit may comprise a wick element. The wick element may communicate via a fluid medium with the current-collecting element. The wick element may communicate via a fluid medium with the liquid reservoir. The wick element may be designed to transport the aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir to the current-collecting element.

The wick element may comprise a capillary material. A capillary material is a material that is capable of transporting liquid from one end of the material to the other by capillary action. The capillary material may have a fibrous or sponge-like structure. The capillary material preferably comprises a bundle of capillaries. For example, the capillary material may comprise a plurality of fibers or threads, or other tubes with narrow channels. The fibers or threads may be generally aligned to move the liquid substrate that forms the aerosol in the direction of the current collecting element. In some embodiments, the capillary material may comprise a sponge-like or foam-like material. The structure of the capillary material may form a plurality of small holes or tubes through which the liquid substrate that forms the aerosol may be transported by capillary action. When the current collecting element comprises gaps or through holes, the capillary material may extend into the gaps or through holes in the current collecting element. The current collecting element may draw the liquid substrate forming the aerosol into the gaps or through holes by capillary action.

The wick element may comprise an electrically insulating material. The wick element may comprise a heat-insulating material. The wick element may comprise a hydrophilic material. The wick element may comprise an oleophilic material. Advantageously, the formation of the wick element from a hydrophilic or oleophilic material may stimulate the transport of the aerosol-forming substrate through the wick element.

The wick element may comprise a non-metallic material. Examples of suitable materials for the wick element are sponge or foam materials, ceramic or graphite based materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamed metal or plastic materials, fibrous materials, for example made of twisted or extruded fibers, such as acetyl cellulose, polyester or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramic fibers or glass fibers. Suitable materials for the wick element may comprise cellulose materials, such as cotton or viscose. Preferably, the wick element may comprise viscose. The wick element may consist of viscose. Wick elements comprising porous ceramic materials may be particularly advantageous if one or both current collector elements comprise an electrically conductive material applied to the wick element. A wick element comprising a porous ceramic material can be advantageously a substrate for manufacturing processes involving the deposition of an electrically conductive material.

The current collecting unit may be configured to hold a volume of liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, the current collecting unit may be configured to hold only a small volume of liquid aerosol-forming substrate, sufficient for one user puff. This is advantageous because it allows a small volume of liquid to be evaporated quickly with minimal heat loss to other elements of the system or to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate that does not evaporate. Advantageously, the current collecting unit or the heating area of the current collecting unit may hold from 1 milliliter to 10 milliliters of liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

The cartridge comprises a current collector holder. The current collector holder contacts at least one fastening area of the current collector element. The current collector holder fixes the current collector assembly in position in the cartridge.

The current collector holder is designed to withstand temperatures to which the current collector unit is heated to heat the substrate that forms the aerosol.

The current collector holder can be formed from any suitable materials that can withstand the temperatures to which the current collector is heated to heat the substrate forming the aerosol. Preferably, the current collector holder comprises a heat-insulating material. Advantageously, forming the current collector holder from a heat-insulating material can minimize heat transfer from the current collector element to the current collector holder. Preferably, the current collector holder comprises an electrically insulating material. The current collector holder can be formed from a durable material. The current collector holder can be formed from a liquid-impermeable material. The current collector holder can be formed from a moldable plastic material, such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The current collector holder can have any suitable shape and size.

In some preferred embodiments, the current collector holder is tubular. The tubular current collector may form an internal passage. In some embodiments, the current collector assembly extends into the internal passage of the current collector holder. In some preferred embodiments, the current collector element extends into the internal passage of the current collector holder. The current collector element may extend through the internal passage of the current collector holder. When the current collector element extends through the internal passage of the current collector holder, the current collector element may comprise a first attachment region on a first side of the current collector element in contact with the current collector holder and a second attachment region on a second side of the current collector element opposite to the first side in contact with the current collector holder. Advantageously, the arrangement of the current collector element for contact with the current collector holder from opposite sides may allow the current collector holder to firmly fix the current collector element in position in the cartridge.

The internal passage of the current collector holder may extend substantially along the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the current collector element is substantially flat and the current collector element extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the current collector element is substantially flat and the current collector element extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the internal passage of the current collector holder may form part of the air passage of the cartridge. In these embodiments, the heating region of the current collector element may be located in the internal passage of the current collector holder.

In some embodiments, the internal passage of the current collector holder may form part of the fluid reservoir of the cartridge. In these embodiments, at least one region of fastening of the current collector element may extend into the internal passage of the current collector holder.

The tubular current collector holder may comprise at least one side wall. The tubular current collector holder may have an open end, so that the internal passage of the current collector holder is open at least at one end. At least one side wall of the tubular current collector holder may form an opening between the ends of the tubular current collector holder. At least one area of fastening of the current collector element may extend into the opening of the tubular current collector holder. In some embodiments, when the current collector element comprises a plurality of fastening areas, at least one side wall of the tubular current collector holder forms a plurality of openings between the ends of the tubular current collector holder. In these embodiments, each area of fastening of the current collector element may extend into one of the plurality of openings of at least one side wall of the tubular current collector holder.

The current collector holder may be molded onto the current collector assembly. The molded current collector holder may hold together the components of the current collector assembly, such as one or more current collector elements and a wick element, so that the components are fixed together. The current collector holder may be formed from a heat-resistant plastic material or a ceramic material. In this way, the holder may support the current collector assembly and ensure the strength of the current collector assembly.

At least a portion of the current collector holder may comprise a porous or permeable material, such as a ceramic material. The porous or permeable portion of the current collector holder may be a region of the current collector holder on which at least one region of fastening of the current collector assembly is mounted. The aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid reservoir may pass through the porous or permeable portion of the current collector holder to the regions of fastening of the current collector assembly. This advantageously provides a path for transferring the aerosol-forming substrate to the current collector assembly from the liquid reservoir and may increase the amount of the aerosol-forming substrate supplied to the current collector assembly.

The portion of the current collector holder containing the porous or permeable material may comprise aluminum oxide (Al ₂ O ₃ ) or a silicon-based ceramic material. The portion may have a porosity of approximately 30 percent.

The cartridge comprises a liquid reservoir. The liquid reservoir is configured to hold an aerosol-forming substrate. In particular, the liquid reservoir is configured to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid reservoir may have any suitable shape and size depending on the requirements of the aerosol-generating system.

In some embodiments, the liquid reservoir comprises a retaining material for containing a liquid substrate that forms an aerosol. When the liquid reservoir comprises a plurality of parts, the retaining material may be located in one or more parts of the liquid reservoir or in all parts of the liquid reservoir. The retaining material may be a foam material, a sponge material or a set of fibers. The retaining material may be formed from a polymer or a copolymer. In one embodiment, the retaining material is a twisted polymer. The retaining material may be formed from any of the materials described above as suitable for the wick element.

When the cartridge comprises a wick element and a retaining material, the wick element and the retaining material may be formed from the same material or from different materials. The retaining material may be in fluid communication with the current collecting unit. The retaining material may be in contact with the current collecting unit. The retaining material may be in fluid contact with the wick element of the current collecting unit. The retaining material may be in contact with the wick element of the current collecting unit.

The cartridge may contain an aerosol-forming substrate. In the context of this document, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. The volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the cartridge contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be liquid at room temperature. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain both liquid and solid components. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain a material of plant origin. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain a material that does not contain tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized material of plant origin.

The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more aerosol forming agents. The aerosol forming agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, when used, promotes the formation of a dense and stable aerosol and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the system. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents include glycerol and propylene glycol. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; 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. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts and natural or artificial flavors.

The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine and at least one aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol-forming agent may be glycerin or propylene glycol. The aerosol-forming agent may comprise both glycerin and propylene glycol. The nicotine concentration in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be from about 0.5% to about 10%, such as about 2%.

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

The current collector unit may be located in an external housing. The current collector holder may be located in the external housing. In some embodiments, the current collector holder may be made as a single unit with the external housing.

The outer housing may form part of the liquid reservoir. The outer housing may form a liquid reservoir. The outer housing and the liquid reservoir may be formed as a single unit. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir may be formed separately from the outer housing and located in the outer housing.

In some preferred embodiments, when the cartridge comprises an outer housing, the current collector holder may fix the current collector unit to the outer housing. Advantageously, providing the cartridge with a current collector holder that fixes the current collector unit to the housing may separate the current collector unit from the outer housing, so that the outer housing does not need to be designed to withstand temperatures to which the current collector unit is heated to heat the substrate that forms the aerosol. This may allow the cartridge to be manufactured from less durable and less expensive materials.

The cartridge may comprise two parts, a first part and a second part. The second part may be movable relative to the first part. The first and second parts of the cartridge may be movable relative to each other between a storage configuration and a use configuration. In the storage configuration, the current collecting unit may be isolated from the aerosol-forming substrate. In the use configuration, the current collecting unit may be supplied with the aerosol-forming substrate.

The liquid reservoir may comprise two parts, a first part and a second part. A seal may be provided between the first part and the second part. The seal may be arranged so as to prevent fluid communication between the first part of the liquid reservoir and the second part of the liquid reservoir. In other words, the seal may fluidly isolate the first part of the liquid reservoir from the second part of the liquid reservoir. In the storage configuration, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be retained in the first part of the liquid reservoir. In the storage configuration, the seal may prevent the aerosol-forming substrate from flowing from the first part of the liquid reservoir to the second part of the liquid reservoir.

The first part of the cartridge may comprise a first part of the fluid reservoir and a seal. The second part of the cartridge may comprise a current collector holder and a current collector assembly. The current collector holder may comprise one or more piercing elements. The one or more piercing elements may be arranged to pierce or penetrate the seal of the second part of the cartridge when the first and second parts of the cartridge are moved from the storage configuration to the use configuration.

When the first and second portions of the cartridge are moved from the storage configuration to the use configuration, one or more piercing elements of the susceptor holder may pierce the seal and allow the aerosol-forming substrate to flow from the first portion of the liquid reservoir to the second portion of the liquid reservoir.

The current collecting unit may extend into the second part of the liquid reservoir. When the current collecting unit comprises a wick element, a portion of the wick element may extend into the second part of the liquid reservoir. Accordingly, when the cartridge is in the storage configuration, the current collecting unit is isolated from the aerosol-forming substrate, and when the cartridge is in the use configuration, the aerosol-forming substrate is supplied to the current collecting unit from the second part of the liquid reservoir.

The seal may be any suitable type of seal for preventing fluid flow between the first portion of the fluid reservoir and the second portion of the fluid reservoir. For example, the seal may comprise a metal foil, a plastic foil, or an elastomeric seal.

The first and second parts of the cartridge may be movable relative to each other in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the first and second parts of the cartridge may be configured to slide relative to each other. In some embodiments, the first and second parts of the cartridge may be configured to rotate relative to each other.

When the current collector holder is a tubular current collector holder, and the internal passage of the current collector holder forms part of the air passage of the cartridge, the second part of the liquid reservoir can be formed between the external surface of the current collector holder and the internal surface of the outer housing. In these embodiments, the second part of the liquid reservoir can comprise an annular space between the current collector holder and the outer housing. In these embodiments, one or more piercing elements can be located on the external surface of the current collector holder.

When the current collector holder is a tubular current collector holder, and the internal passage of the current collector holder forms part of the liquid reservoir of the cartridge, the second part of the liquid reservoir can be formed by the internal passage of the current collector holder. In these embodiments, one or more piercing elements can be located on the internal surface of the current collector holder inside the internal passage.

The cartridge may have a mouthpiece end through which the generated aerosol may be drawn in by the user. The cartridge may have a connecting end configured to connect the cartridge to an aerosol generating device.

When the current collecting unit comprises a substantially flat current collecting element, the first side of the current collecting element may face the mouthpiece end, and the second side of the current collecting element may face the connecting end. However, the flat current collecting element preferably extends in a plane that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, passing between the mouthpiece end and the connecting end. When the flat current collecting element extends in a plane that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, the first and second sides of the current collecting element face opposite sides of the cartridge, and not the mouthpiece end and the connecting end of the cartridge.

An air inlet may be formed in the cartridge. The air inlet may be located at or around the connecting end of the cartridge. An opening may be formed in the cartridge at the mouthpiece end. The user may be able to draw generated aerosol from the cartridge through the opening at the mouthpiece end. The cartridge may form a closed air flow passage from the air inlet to the air outlet. The closed air flow passage may extend from the air inlet past the current collecting element to the opening at the mouthpiece end.

The closed air flow passage may extend through the liquid reservoir. For example, the liquid reservoir may have an annular cross-section that forms an internal passage, and the air flow passage may extend through the internal passage of the liquid reservoir.

When the current collector holder is a tubular current collector holder, the internal passage of the tubular current collector holder may form part of a closed air flow passage. The closed air flow passage may extend from an air inlet at the connecting end of the cartridge, through the internal passage of the tubular current collector holder, through the internal passage of the liquid reservoir to an opening at the mouthpiece end.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the air flow passage is formed between the current collector holder and the outer housing of the cartridge. At least a portion of the air flow passage may be formed between the liquid reservoir and the outer housing of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the closed air flow passage may extend from the air inlet at the connecting end of the cartridge, through the passage between the current collector holder and the outer housing, through the passage between the liquid reservoir and the outer housing to the opening at the mouthpiece end.

According to the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generating system is also provided, wherein the cartridge comprises: a liquid reservoir intended for holding a liquid substrate forming an aerosol; and a current collecting unit in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. The current collecting unit comprises a current collecting element having an array of threads forming a woven mesh. The woven mesh comprises threads of a first material in the weft direction. The woven mesh further comprises threads of a second material in the warp direction.

In some preferred embodiments, the first material is a magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it. The first material may include any suitable magnetic material. For example, the first material may comprise a ferritic stainless steel. Suitable ferritic stainless steels include stainless steels of the AISI 400 series, such as stainless steels of the AISI 409, 410, 420 and 430 type.

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

The cartridge may further comprise a current collector holder. The current collector holder may be in contact with the current collector element on the threads extending in the warp direction. Advantageously, the contact with the threads extending in the warp direction may minimize the heat transfer from the current collector element to the current collector holder. The current collector holder may be in contact with the current collector element in multiple locations. In some embodiments, the current collector holder is in contact with the current collector element in a first position and a second position, wherein the first and second positions are spaced apart in the warp direction.

In some embodiments, the first material is a non-magnetic material, and the second material is a magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it. In these embodiments, the cartridge may further comprise a current collector holder, and the current collector holder may be in contact with the current collector element on the threads extending in the weft direction. In these embodiments, the current collector holder may be in contact with the current collector element in multiple locations. The current collector holder may be in contact with the current collector element in the first position and the second position, wherein the first and second positions are spaced apart in the weft direction.

According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising a cartridge as described herein and an aerosol generating device configured to receive the cartridge.

According to the present invention, there is also provided an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device comprising a current collecting unit as described herein and a current collecting holder as described herein. The aerosol generating device may also comprise a liquid reservoir as described herein. Such an aerosol generating system comprises elements of a cartridge as described herein in the aerosol generating device.

The aerosol generating system may be a portable aerosol generating system configured to allow the user to draw on a mouthpiece to draw the aerosol through an opening at the mouthpiece end. The aerosol generating system may have a size comparable to a traditional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating system may have a total length of about 30 mm to about 150 mm. The aerosol generating system may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 30 mm.

The aerosol generating system may be configured to deliver nicotine or cannabinoids to the user.

The aerosol generating device may comprise an induction heating unit. The induction heating unit may comprise at least one induction coil, a power source and a control circuit. The power source and the control circuit may be connected to at least one induction coil and configured to supply alternating current to at least one induction coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. The current collecting unit may be positioned so that an alternating magnetic field from at least one induction coil can penetrate into it, so that the current collecting element is heated by the alternating magnetic field.

If the aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge, at least one induction coil may be arranged in the device so that the alternating magnetic field penetrates the cartridge and, in particular, the current collecting unit in the cartridge, when the cartridge is placed in the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a cavity for receiving the cartridge. At least one induction coil may be arranged so that the alternating magnetic field penetrates the cavity. At least one induction coil may be arranged at the cavity, in the cavity or around the cavity. In some embodiments, at least one induction coil may surround the cavity. At least one induction coil may be a tubular, spiral or helical coil that substantially surrounds the cavity. In other embodiments, the coil may be arranged at the side of the cavity.

In some embodiments, where the current collecting element is flat and extends parallel to the plane, at least one induction coil may be arranged to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the current collecting unit in a direction substantially parallel to the plane.

In some embodiments, where the current collecting element is flat and extends parallel to the plane, at least one induction coil may be arranged to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the current collecting unit in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane.

The induction heating unit may comprise any suitable number of induction coils. The aerosol generating system may comprise one induction coil. The aerosol generating system may comprise a plurality of induction coils. The induction heating unit may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven or eight induction coils.

At least one induction coil may have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, at least one induction coil may be a tubular or spiral coil. In some embodiments, at least one induction coil may be a flat or flattened induction coil. The tubular or spiral induction coil may surround the current collecting unit. The flat or flattened induction coil may be located on one side of the current collecting unit. The flat or flattened induction coil may be round, elliptical or rectangular. Preferably, the shape of the flat or flattened induction coil substantially corresponds to the shape of the current collecting element.

If the current collecting unit is substantially flat, and in particular the current collecting element is flat, extending parallel to the first plane, at least one induction coil may be a flattened induction coil extending in a second plane, substantially parallel to the first plane. In such an arrangement, at least one induction coil is arranged so as to generate an alternating magnetic field, which penetrates the current collecting unit in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane.

In some preferred embodiments, the current collecting unit comprises a flat current collecting unit, and the induction heating unit comprises a first flattened induction coil and a second flattened induction coil. The flat current collecting unit extends in a first plane, the first induction coil extends in a second plane parallel to the first plane, and the second induction coil extends in a third plane parallel to the first and second planes. The current collecting unit is located between the first induction coil and the second induction coil. In such an arrangement, the first induction coil generates an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the current collecting unit from the first side in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane, and the second induction coil generates an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the current collecting unit from the second side opposite to the first side in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane. Advantageously, such an arrangement can provide effective, uniform heating of the current collecting element. The inventors have found that such an arrangement can allow for relatively low frequency alternating currents to be supplied to the induction coils, resulting in the generation of lower frequency alternating magnetic fields, which can allow for the use of simpler and less expensive control circuits for supplying the alternating current. The inventors have found that such an arrangement can allow for the induction coils to be located at a greater distance from the current collector assembly than with other arrangements, while maintaining the desired aerosol generation from the aerosol generating system.

In these preferred embodiments, the induction heating unit is designed such that the first and second induction coils generate alternating magnetic fields of similar amplitudes in opposite directions. In some of these preferred embodiments, the first and second induction coils can be electrically connected to form a single electrically conductive path. In these embodiments, the first induction coil can be wound in a direction opposite to the second induction coil, so that the alternating magnetic fields generated by the first and second induction coils are generated in opposite directions. Alternatively, the first and second induction coils can be wound in the same direction, and the control circuit can be designed to supply alternating currents to each of the first and second induction coils so that the alternating magnetic fields generated by the first and second induction coils are generated in opposite directions. The first and second induction coils can be substantially identical. The first and second induction coils can be substantially identical, but wound in opposite directions.

In some preferred embodiments, the current-collecting element is substantially flat and extends parallel to the first plane; and at least one induction coil comprises a first induction coil and a second induction coil, wherein the first induction coil is located on the first side of the current-collecting unit, extending parallel to the first plane, and the second induction coil is located on the second side of the current-collecting unit, opposite to the first side, and extends parallel to the first plane. The current-collecting element can be located between the first induction coil and the second induction coil. Preferably, the current-collecting element is substantially equidistant from the first induction coil and the second induction coil. The system can be designed such that the first and second induction coils create equal and opposite magnetic fields to each other. The control circuit can be designed to provide current to the induction coils such that the first induction coil applies an equal and opposite force to the second induction coil to the current-collecting unit.

The induction heating unit may further comprise at least one flow concentrator arranged to retain an alternating magnetic field generated by at least one induction coil.

The control circuit may comprise a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or other electronic circuit capable of providing control. The control circuit may be configured to supply power to at least one induction coil continuously after activation of the device, or may be configured to supply power intermittently, such as from puff to puff. Power may be supplied to the induction heating unit in the form of electric current pulses, such as by means of pulse-width modulation (PWM). The control circuit may comprise a DC-to-AC converter, which may comprise a class D or class E power amplifier. The control circuit may comprise additional electronic components. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit may comprise any of: sensors, switches, display elements.

The power source may be a DC power source. The power source may be a battery. The battery may be a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron phosphate, lithium-titanate or lithium-polymer battery. The battery may be a nickel-metal hydride battery or a nickel-cadmium battery. The power source may be another type of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may be rechargeable and capable of performing multiple charge and discharge cycles. The power source may have a capacity that allows storing sufficient energy for one or more sessions of a user of the aerosol generating system; for example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to ensure continuous aerosol generation for approximately six minutes, which corresponds to the typical time required to smoke a regular cigarette, or for a period that is a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to enable a specified number of puffs or individual activations of the spray assembly.

The control circuit and the power supply are configured to supply alternating current to at least one induction coil. In the context of this document, "alternating current" means a current that periodically reverses direction. The alternating current may have any suitable frequency. Suitable alternating current frequencies may be from 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). When the at least one induction coil is a tubular induction coil, the alternating current may have a frequency of 500 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz). When the at least one induction coil is a flat coil, the alternating current may have a frequency of 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 1 megahertz (MHz).

Passing alternating current through at least one induction coil results in the generation of an alternating magnetic field by at least one induction coil. The alternating magnetic field may have any suitable frequency for heating the heating region of the current-receiving element located in the alternating magnetic field. Suitable alternating current frequencies may be from 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 30 megahertz (MHz).

The aerosol generating device may comprise a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials comprising one or more such materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for applications in the food or pharmaceutical industries, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. The material is preferably lightweight and non-brittle.

The housing of the aerosol generating device may form a cavity for containing the cartridge. The aerosol generating device may comprise one or more air inlets. The one or more air inlets may provide for the suction of ambient air into the cavity.

The aerosol generating device may have a connecting end configured to connect the aerosol generating device to the cartridge. The connecting end may comprise a cavity for accommodating the cartridge.

The aerosol generating device may have a distal end opposite the connecting end. The distal end may comprise an electrical connector configured to connect the aerosol generating device to an electrical connector of an external power source for charging the power source of the aerosol generating device.

It should be appreciated that any features described herein with respect to one embodiment of a cartridge or aerosol-generating device may also be applicable to other embodiments of cartridges and aerosol-generating devices according to the present invention. A feature described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applicable to another embodiment according to this invention. It should also be understood that the aerosol-generating system according to the present invention may be provided in an aerosol-generating device without a cartridge. Accordingly, any of the features described herein with respect to a cartridge may be equally applicable to an aerosol-generating device.

The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more of the features of these examples can be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

EX1. A cartridge for an aerosol generating system, the cartridge comprising:

a liquid reservoir designed to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate;

a current collecting unit in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir, wherein the current collecting unit comprises a current collecting element having:

a heating region containing a first material, wherein the first material is a magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it; and

at least one fastening region comprising a second material, wherein the second material is a non-magnetic material; and

a current collector holder, wherein at least one area of fastening of the current collector element is in contact with the current collector holder,

wherein the proportion by weight of the first material in the heating region is greater than the proportion by weight of the first material in at least one fastening region.

EX2. A cartridge according to example EX1, wherein at least one area of fastening of the current collecting element is located on the periphery of the current collecting element.

EX3. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX2, wherein the current collector holder comprises an electrically insulating material.

EX4. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX3, wherein the current collector holder comprises a thermal insulating material.

EX5. A cartridge according to any one of EX1-EX4, wherein the cartridge comprises an outer housing, and wherein the current collector holder attaches the current collector assembly to the outer housing.

EX6. A cartridge according to any of examples EX1-EX5, wherein the second material is an electrically insulating material.

EX7. A cartridge according to any of examples EX1-EX6, wherein the second material is a thermal insulation material.

EX8. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX7, wherein the second material is non-metallic.

EX9. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX8, wherein the second material is a hydrophilic material.

EX10. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX9, wherein the second material is an oleophilic material.

EX11. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX10, wherein the second material comprises a cellulosic material.

EX12. A cartridge according to example EX11, where the second material contains viscose.

EX13. A cartridge according to any of examples EX1-EX12, wherein the first material comprises ferritic stainless steel.

EX14. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX13, wherein the heating area of the current-collecting element comprises:

at least 10 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 20 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 30 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 40 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 50 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 60 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 70 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 80 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 90 percent by weight of the first material.

15. A cartridge according to any of examples EX1-EX13, wherein at least one area of fastening of the current collecting element comprises:

90 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

80 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

70 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

60 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

50 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

40 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

30 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

20 percent or less by weight of the first material, or

10 percent or less by weight of the first material.

16. A cartridge according to any of examples EX1-EX13, wherein the heating region of the current-collecting element comprises:

90 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

80 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

70 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

60 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

50 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

40 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

30 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

20 percent or less by weight of the second material, or

10 percent or less by weight of the second material.

17. A cartridge according to any of examples EX1-EX13, wherein at least one area of fastening of the current collecting element comprises:

at least 10 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 20 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 30 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 40 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 50 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 60 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 70 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 80 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 90 percent by weight of the second material.

EX18. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX13, wherein the heating area of the current-collecting element comprises:

at least 10 percent by weight of the first material and less than 90 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 20 percent by weight of the first material and less than 80 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 30 percent by weight of the first material and less than 70 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 40 percent by weight of the first material and less than 60 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 50 percent by weight of the first material and less than 50 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 60 percent by weight of the first material and less than 40 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 70 percent by weight of the first material and less than 30 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 80 percent by weight of the first material and less than 20 percent by weight of the second material, or

at least 90 percent by weight of the first material and less than 10 percent by weight of the second material.

EX19. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX13, wherein at least one area of fastening of the current collecting element comprises:

at least 10 percent by weight of the second material and less than 90 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 20 percent by weight of the second material and less than 80 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 30 percent by weight of the second material and less than 70 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 40 percent by weight of the second material and less than 60 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 50 percent by weight of the second material and less than 50 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 60 percent by weight of the second material and less than 40 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 70 percent by weight of the second material and less than 30 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 80 percent by weight of the second material and less than 20 percent by weight of the first material, or

at least 90 percent by weight of the second material and less than 10 percent by weight of the first material.

EX20. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX13, where:

the heating region of the current-collecting element contains at least 90 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-collecting element contains less than 10 percent by weight of the first material, or

the heating region of the current-collecting element contains at least 80 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-collecting element contains less than 20 percent by weight of the first material, or

the heating region of the current-collecting element contains at least 70 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-collecting element contains less than 30 percent by weight of the first material, or

the heating region of the current-receiving element contains at least 60 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-receiving element contains less than 40 percent by weight of the first material, or

the heating region of the current-receiving element contains at least 50 percent by weight of the first material, and at least one fastening region of the current-receiving element contains less than 50 percent by weight of the first material.

EX21. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX13, wherein the heating region of the current-collecting element consists of the first material.

EX22. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX13, wherein at least one region of fastening of the current collecting element consists of a second material.

EX23. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX22, wherein the current collecting element is permeable to a fluid medium.

EX24. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX23, wherein the current collecting element comprises an array of threads forming a grid.

EX25. Cartridge according to example EX24, where the mesh is non-woven.

EX26. Cartridge according to example EX24, where the mesh is woven.

EX27. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads of a first material in the weft direction and threads of a second material in the warp direction, and wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads of a second material in the weft direction and threads of a second material in the warp direction.

EX28. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a first material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction, and wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a second material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction.

EX29. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads of a first material in the warp direction and threads of a second material in the weft direction, and wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads of a second material in the warp direction and threads of a second material in the weft direction.

EX30. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a first material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction, and wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a second material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction.

EX31. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads from a first material in the weft direction and threads from a first material in the warp direction, and wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads from a first material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction.

EX32. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a first material in the weft direction and threads from a first material in the warp direction, and wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a first material in the weft direction and threads from a second material in the warp direction.

EX33. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads from a first material in the warp direction and threads from a first material in the weft direction, and wherein at least one fastening region comprises threads from a first material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction.

EX34. A cartridge according to example EX26, wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a first material in the warp direction and threads from a first material in the weft direction, and wherein at least one fastening region consists of threads from a first material in the warp direction and threads from a second material in the weft direction.

EX35. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX34, wherein the current collecting element is substantially planar.

EX36. A cartridge according to any one of the examples EX1-EX35, wherein the current collector holder is tubular and defines an internal passage, and wherein the current collector element extends into the internal passage of the current collector holder.

EX37. A cartridge according to example EX36, where the current collecting element passes through the internal passage of the current collecting holder.

EX38. A cartridge according to any one of EX36 or EX37, wherein the internal passage of the current collector holder extends substantially along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the current collector element is substantially flat and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.

EX39. A cartridge according to any one of EX36 or EX37, wherein the internal passage of the current collector holder extends substantially along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the current collector element is substantially flat and extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

EX40. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX36-EX39, wherein the current collector holder comprises at least one side wall, and wherein at least one side wall of the tubular current collector holder defines an opening between the ends of the tubular current collector holder.

EX41. A cartridge according to example EX40, wherein at least one area of fastening of the current collecting element extends into an opening of the tubular holder of the current collecting element.

EX42. A cartridge according to example EX40, wherein at least one side wall of the tubular current collector holder defines a plurality of openings between the ends of the current collector holder, wherein at least one fastening region comprises a plurality of fastening regions, and wherein each fastening region of the current collector element extends into one of the plurality of openings in at least one side wall of the tubular current collector holder.

EX43. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX42, wherein the current collector holder is in contact with the second material in at least one area of the current collector element attachment.

EX44. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX43, wherein at least one fastening region comprises a plurality of fastening regions.

45. A cartridge according to example EX44, wherein the plurality of attachment regions includes a first attachment region and a second attachment region, wherein the first attachment region is located on one side of the current-collecting element, and the second attachment region is located on the same side of the current-collecting element as the first attachment region.

EX46. A cartridge according to example EX45, wherein the first fastening region is located at the first end of the current-collecting element, and the second fastening region is located at the second end of the current-collecting element, opposite the first end.

EX47. A cartridge according to example EX44, wherein the plurality of fastening regions includes a first fastening region and a second fastening region, wherein the first fastening region is located on the first side of the current-collecting element, and the second fastening region is located on the second side of the current-collecting element, opposite the first side.

EX48. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the heating region has a length, and wherein the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located in the same position along the length of the heating region.

EX49. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located at one end of the current collecting element.

EX50. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the heating region has a length, and wherein the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located centrally along the length of the heating region.

EX51. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the heating region has a length, and wherein the first fastening region and the second fastening region are located in different positions along the length of the heating region.

EX52. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the first fastening region is located at the first end of the current-collecting element, and the second fastening region is located at the second end of the current-collecting element, opposite the first end.

EX53. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the plurality of fastening regions includes a first fastening region and a second fastening region, wherein the second fastening region is located opposite the first fastening region.

EX54. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the plurality of attachment areas comprises:

a first pair of attachment regions located at the first end of the current collecting element on opposite sides of the current collecting element; and

a second pair of fastening regions located at the second end of the current collecting element on opposite sides of the current collecting element, wherein the second end of the current collecting element is opposite the first end.

EX55. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the plurality of fastening regions includes a plurality of pairs of fastening regions, wherein each pair of fastening regions includes a first fastening region located on the first side of the current-receiving element, and a second fastening region located on the second side of the current-receiving element, wherein the second side of the current-receiving element is opposite the first side of the current-receiving element.

EX56. A cartridge according to example EX47, wherein the plurality of fastening regions includes a plurality of pairs of fastening regions, wherein each pair of fastening regions includes a first fastening region and a second fastening region, wherein the second fastening region is located opposite the first fastening region.

EX57. A cartridge according to any of examples EX1-EX56, wherein at least one fastening region is located adjacent to the periphery of the heating region, wherein the heating region has a length and a width, and at least one fastening region has a length and a width.

EX58. A cartridge according to example EX57, wherein the length of at least one fastening region is less than the length of the heating region.

EX59. A cartridge according to example EX58, wherein the length of at least one fastening region is less than three quarters of the length of the heating region.

EX60. A cartridge according to example EX58, wherein the length of at least one fastening region is not greater than half the length of the heating region.

EX61. A cartridge according to example EX58, wherein the length of at least one fastening region is no more than a quarter of the length of the heating region.

EX62. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX57-EX61, wherein the width of at least one fastening region is less than the width of the heating region.

EX63. A cartridge according to example EX62, wherein the length of at least one fastening region is less than three quarters of the length of the heating region.

EX64. A cartridge according to example EX62, wherein the length of at least one fastening region is not greater than half the length of the heating region.

EX65. A cartridge according to example EX62, wherein the length of at least one fastening region is no more than a quarter of the length of the heating region.

EX66. A cartridge for an aerosol generating system, the cartridge comprising:

a liquid reservoir designed to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate;

a current collecting unit in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir, wherein the current collecting unit comprises a current collecting element having an array of threads forming a woven mesh, wherein the woven mesh comprises:

threads from the first material in the weft direction; and

threads from the second material in the direction of the warp.

EX67. A cartridge according to example EX66, wherein the first material is a magnetic material capable of heating up when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it, and the second material is a non-magnetic material.

EX68. A cartridge according to examples EX66 or EX67, wherein the cartridge further comprises a current collector holder, wherein the current collector holder is in contact with the current collector element on the threads in the weft direction.

EX69. A cartridge according to example EX68, wherein the current collector holder is in contact with the current collector element in a first position and a second position, wherein the first and second positions are spaced apart in the weft direction.

EX70. A cartridge according to example EX66, wherein the first material is a non-magnetic material and the second material is a magnetic material capable of heating up when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it.

EX71. A cartridge according to example EX70, wherein the cartridge further comprises a current collector holder, wherein the current collector holder is in contact with the current collector element on the threads in the direction of the warp.

EX72. A cartridge according to example EX71, wherein the current collector holder is in contact with the current collector element in a first position and a second position, wherein the first and second positions are spaced apart in the direction of the base.

EX73. A cartridge according to any of EX67-EX72, wherein the magnetic material comprises ferritic stainless steel.

EX74. A cartridge according to example EX73, where the ferritic stainless steel comprises one of AISI 430, 420 or 410.

EX75. A cartridge according to any of EX67-EX74, wherein the non-magnetic material comprises AISI 304 or 316.

EX75. A cartridge according to any one of examples EX1-EX74, comprising an air inlet, an air outlet, and an air flow passage between the air inlet and the air outlet.

EX76. A cartridge according to the example EX75, where part of the current collecting unit is located in the air flow passage.

EX77. A cartridge according to examples EX75 or EX76, where the heating area of the current-collecting element is located in the air flow passage.

EX78. A cartridge according to any one of EX75-EX77, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate evaporated by the current collecting unit can exit into an air flow passage.

EX79. An aerosol generating system according to any one of EX75-EX78, wherein an air outlet is provided at the mouthpiece end of the cartridge through which the generated aerosol can be drawn by the user.

EX80. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX79, wherein the current collecting unit or the heating region of the current collecting unit can hold from 2 milliliters to 10 milliliters of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

EX81. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX80, wherein the current collecting unit additionally comprises a wick element.

EX82. A cartridge according to example EX81, wherein the wick element is in fluid communication with the current collecting element.

EX83. A cartridge according to example EX81 or EX82, wherein the wick element is in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir.

EX84. A cartridge according to example EX83, wherein the wick element is configured to transfer an aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid reservoir to a current-collecting element.

EX85. A cartridge according to example EX84, wherein the wick element is configured to transfer an aerosol-forming substrate from a liquid reservoir through the main surface of the current-collecting element.

EX86. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX81-EX85, wherein the current collecting element is attached to the wick element.

EX87. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX81-EX85, wherein the current collecting element is formed as a single unit with the wick element.

EX88. A cartridge according to any one of the examples EX1-EX87, wherein the current collecting unit comprises a plurality of current collecting elements.

EX89. A cartridge according to example EX88, wherein the current collecting unit comprises a wick element, and wherein each current collecting element is located in fluid communication with the wick element.

EX90. A cartridge according to any of the examples EX1-EX89, wherein the current collecting unit comprises a first current collecting element and a second current collecting element, wherein the second current collecting element is located at a distance from the first current collecting element.

EX91. A cartridge according to example EX90, wherein the wick element can be located in the space between the first current-collecting element and the second current-collecting element.

EX92. A cartridge according to example EX90 or EX91, wherein the first current collector, the second current collector and the wick element are substantially flat, and the first current collector is located on a first side of the flat wick element, and the second current collector is located on a second side of the flat wick element, opposite the first side.

EX93. A cartridge according to any of EX90-EX92, wherein the wick element is a sheet of cotton or viscose.

EX94. An aerosol generating system comprising:

a cartridge according to any of Examples EX1-EX93; and

an aerosol generating device configured to receive a cartridge, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises:

at least one induction coil configured to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the current-receiving element of the cartridge when the cartridge is placed in the device; and

a control circuit connected to at least one induction coil and configured to supply alternating current to the induction coil to generate an alternating magnetic field.

EX95. An aerosol generating system comprising:

a liquid reservoir designed to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate;

a current collecting unit in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir, wherein the current collecting unit comprises a current collecting element having:

a heating region containing a first material, wherein the first material is a magnetic material capable of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates it; and

at least one fastening region comprising a second material, wherein the second material is a non-magnetic material, wherein the proportion by weight of the first material in the heating region is greater than the proportion by weight of the first material in the at least one fastening region;

a current collector holder, wherein at least one area of fastening of the current collector element is in contact with the current collector holder;

at least one induction coil arranged so as to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the current collecting element; and

a control circuit connected to at least one induction coil and configured to supply alternating current to the induction coil to generate an alternating magnetic field.

EX96. An aerosol generating system according to EX95, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises:

a cartridge containing a reservoir for liquid; and

an aerosol generating device configured to be connected to a cartridge, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises at least one induction coil and a control circuit.

EX97. An aerosol generating system according to example EX96, wherein the cartridge further comprises a current collector unit and a current collector holder.

EX98. An aerosol generating system according to any of the examples EX94-EX97, wherein the current collecting element is a flat current collecting element extending in a plane, and at least one induction coil is configured to provide a magnetic field on the current collecting element that is perpendicular to the plane of the current collecting element.

EX99. An aerosol generating system according to any of the examples EX94-EX97, wherein the current collecting element is a flat current collecting element extending in a plane, and at least one induction coil is configured to provide a magnetic field on the current collecting element that is parallel to the plane of the current collecting element.

EX100. An aerosol generating system according to any of EX94-EX99, wherein at least one induction coil is a spiral induction coil.

EX101. An aerosol generating system according to any of EX94-EX100, wherein at least one induction coil surrounds the current collecting unit.

EX102. An aerosol generating system according to any of EX94-EX99, wherein at least one induction coil is a flat induction coil.

EX103. An aerosol generating system according to example EX102, wherein at least one induction coil is rectangular.

EX104. An aerosol generating system according to any of EX94-EX103, wherein the at least one induction coil comprises a plurality of induction coils.

EX105. An aerosol generating system according to any of EX94-EX98, wherein:

the current collecting element is essentially flat and extends parallel to the first plane;

at least one induction coil comprises a first induction coil and a second induction coil, wherein the first induction coil is located on the first side of the current collecting unit, extending parallel to the first plane, and the second induction coil is located on the second side of the current collecting unit opposite the first side and extends parallel to the first plane; and

the current-collecting element is located between the first induction coil and the second induction coil.

EX106. An aerosol generating system according to example EX105, wherein the current collecting element is substantially equidistant from the first induction coil and the second induction coil.

EX107. An aerosol generating system according to examples EX105 or EX106, wherein the system is designed such that the first and second induction coils create equal and opposite magnetic fields.

EX108. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the examples EX105-EX107, wherein the control circuit is configured to provide current to the induction coils such that the first induction coil applies an equal and opposite force to the second induction coil to the current collecting unit.

Below, the examples will be further described with reference to figures, where:

Fig. 1a shows a schematic illustration of a cartridge for an aerosol generating system according to an example of the present invention, wherein the cartridge is in a storage configuration;

Fig. 1b shows a schematic representation of the cartridge according to Fig. 1a, rotated 90 degrees relative to the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge;

Fig. 1c shows a schematic representation of the cartridge of Fig. 1a, wherein the cartridge is in the use configuration;

Fig. 2a shows a side view of the current collecting unit of the cartridge according to Fig. 1a and 1b;

Fig. 2b shows a perspective view of the current collecting unit of Fig. 2a;

Fig. 2c shows a top view of the current collecting unit according to Fig. 2a;

Fig. 3a shows a schematic representation of an aerosol generating system according to an example of the present invention, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge according to Fig. 1a and 1b, placed in an aerosol generating device;

Fig. 3b shows a schematic representation of the aerosol generating system of Fig. 3a, rotated 90 degrees relative to the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system;

Fig. 4a-e show top views of illustrative current collecting elements according to the present invention;

Fig. 5a-i shows a top view of additional illustrative current collecting elements according to the present invention;

Fig. 6a shows a schematic illustration of a cartridge for an aerosol generating system according to another example of the present invention, wherein the cartridge is in a storage configuration;

Fig. 6b shows a schematic representation of the cartridge of Fig. 6a, wherein the cartridge is in the use configuration;

Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of an aerosol generating system according to a second example of the present invention, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge according to Fig. 6a and 6b, received in an aerosol generating device;

Fig. 8a shows a sectional view of a flat current-collecting element according to another example of the present invention, wherein the section is taken in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the current-collecting element; and

Fig. 8b shows a top view of the current collecting element shown in Fig. 8a.

Fig. 1a, 1b and 1c show schematic illustrations of a cartridge 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The cartridge 10 comprises a current collector (suspender) unit 12 mounted in a current collector (suspender) holder 14. The current collector (suspender) unit 12 is shown in more detail in Fig. 2a, 2b and 2c. The current collector (suspender) unit 12 is flat and thin, and its thickness dimension is substantially smaller than its length dimension and its width dimension. The current-collecting (suspender) unit 12 has the shape of a cross and contains three layers: the first current-collecting (suspender) element 16, the second current-collecting (suspender) element 18 and the wick element 20 located between the first and second current-collecting (suspender) elements 16, 18. Each of the first current-collecting (suspender) element 16, the second current-collecting element 18 and the wick element 20 usually has the shape of a cross, and each element has the same dimensions in length and width. The first and second current-collecting elements 16, 18 are essentially identical and contain a sintered mesh formed by ferritic stainless steel threads and austenitic stainless steel threads, which is described in more detail below. The wick element 20 contains a porous body made of viscose threads. The wick element 20 is designed with the possibility of transferring liquid from the outer open surfaces of the wick element 20 to the first and second current-collecting elements 16, 18.

Each of the first and second current-receiving elements 16, 18 comprises a pair of fastening regions 22 and a heating region 24. The heating region 24 is a substantially rectangular region located in the center of the current-receiving elements 16, 18. The pair of fastening regions 22 are also substantially rectangular regions located on the periphery of the heating region 24, on opposite sides of the heating region 24. In this embodiment, the fastening regions 22 are located in the same central position along the length of the heating region 24.

Each of the pair of fastening regions 22 has a smaller surface area than the heating region 24. The length l _m of each of the fastening regions 22 is less than the length l _h of the heating region 24, and the width w _m of each of the fastening regions 22 is less than the width w _h of the heating region 24. In this embodiment, the heating region 24 has a length l _h of approximately 6.50 millimeters and a width w _h of approximately 3.50 millimeters, and each of the fastening regions 22 has a length l _m of approximately 2.50 millimeters and a width w _m of approximately 1.15 millimeters. Thus, each of the first and second current collecting elements 16, 18 has a total maximum length of approximately 6.50 millimeters and a total maximum width of approximately 5.80 millimeters.

The heating region 24 is designed with the possibility of heating when an alternating magnetic field penetrates into it for evaporation of the substrate forming the aerosol. The pair of fastening regions 22 is designed with the possibility of contact with the current collector holder 14, so that the current collector holder 14 can support the current collector unit 12 in position in the cartridge 10. The pair of fastening regions 22 is designed with the possibility of minimizing heat transfer from the current collector unit 12 to the current collector holder 14.

Each of the first and second current-collecting elements 16, 18 comprises a grid having threads extending in a first direction and threads extending in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The heating region 24 comprises threads of AISI 410 stainless steel, ferritic stainless steel, extending both in the first and second directions. The pair of fastening regions 22 comprises threads of AISI 410 stainless steel extending in the first direction and threads of AISI 316 stainless steel, austenitic stainless steel, extending in the second direction. Accordingly, the heating region 24 consists of a magnetic material, and the pair of fastening regions 22 consists partly of a magnetic material and partly of a non-magnetic material. The proportion by weight of AISI 410 stainless steel in the heating region 24 is greater than the proportion by weight of AISI 410 in each of the pair of fastening regions 22.

Providing the first and second current-receiving elements 16, 18 with fastening regions 22 having a reduced cross-section compared to the heating region 24 and at least partially including fastening regions 22 made of a non-magnetic material helps to reduce the heating of the fastening regions 22 when an alternating magnetic field penetrates into the current-receiving elements. Such a configuration also helps to reduce the heat transfer from the current-receiving unit 12 to the current-receiving holder 14.

It should be understood that in other embodiments, the heating region 24 and the pair of fastening regions 22 may be made of other combinations of magnetic and non-magnetic materials. For example, in some embodiments, the heating region 24 comprises threads of AISI 410 stainless steel, a ferritic stainless steel, extending in a first direction, and threads of AISI 316 stainless steel, an austenitic stainless steel, extending in second directions. In these embodiments, the pair of fastening regions 22 may comprise threads of AISI 316 stainless steel extending in both the first and second directions. Accordingly, in these embodiments, the heating region 24 consists partly of a magnetic material and partly of a non-magnetic material, and the pair of fastening regions 22 consists of a non-magnetic material.

The holder 14 of the current collector comprises a tubular body made of a moldable plastic material, such as polypropylene. The tubular body of the holder 14 of the current collector comprises a side wall forming an internal passage 26 with open ends. A pair of openings 28 pass through the side wall on opposite sides of the tubular holder 14 of the current collector. The openings 28 are located centrally along the length of the holder 14 of the current collector.

The current collecting unit 12 is located inside the internal passage 26 of the tubular holder 14 of the current collecting unit and extends in a plane parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the holder 14 of the current collecting unit. The heating region 24 of the first and second current collecting elements 16, 18 is completely located inside the internal passage 26 of the holder 14 of the current collecting unit, and each of the fastening regions 22 extends through one of the openings 28 in the side wall of the holder 14 of the current collecting unit. The openings 28 in the side wall of the holder 14 of the current collecting unit have a size that allows accommodating the current collecting unit 12 with a friction fit, so that the current collecting unit is secured in the holder 14 of the current collecting unit. The friction fit between the current collecting unit 12 and the current collecting holder 14 results in the fastening areas 22 directly contacting the current collecting holder 14 in the openings 28. The current collecting unit 12 and the current collecting holder 14 are fastened together in such a way that movement of the current collecting holder 14 also results in movement of the current collecting unit 12.

It should be understood that the current collecting unit 12 and the current collecting holder 14 may be fastened together by other means. For example, in some embodiments, the current collecting unit 12 is fastened to the current collecting holder 14 by means of adhesive in the fastening regions 22 of the current collecting unit 12, so that the fastening regions 22 indirectly come into contact with the current collecting holder 14.

The current collector holder 14 comprises a base 30 which partially closes one end of the internal passage 26. The base 30 comprises a plurality of air inlet openings 32 which allow air to be drawn into the internal passage 26 through the partially closed end.

The current collector holder 14 additionally comprises a pair of piercing elements 34 extending from the outer surface of the side wall to the open end of the current collector holder 14 opposite the end partially closed by the base 30. The openings 28 in the side wall of the current collector holder 14 are located between the piercing elements 34 along the circumference of the side wall in such a way that the piercing elements 34 are offset from the openings 28 along the circumference of the side wall of the tubular current collector by approximately 90 degrees. Each of the piercing elements 34 comprises a spike facing in the direction of the open end of the current collector holder 14.

The cartridge 10 further comprises an outer housing 36 made of a moldable plastic material such as polypropylene. The outer housing 36 typically forms a hollow cylinder that defines an internal space in which the current collector assembly 12 and the current collector holder 14 are located.

The outer housing 36 forms the first part of the cartridge 10, and the current collector unit 12 and the current collector holder 14 form the second part of the cartridge 10. The second part of the cartridge can be designed to slide relative to the first part of the cartridge between a storage configuration, which is shown in Fig. 1a and 1b, and a use configuration, which is shown in Fig. 1c.

The cartridge 10 has a mouthpiece end and a connecting end opposite to the mouthpiece end. The outer housing 36 forms an opening 38 at the mouthpiece end of the cartridge 10. The connecting end is designed to connect the cartridge 10 to the aerosol generating device, as described in detail below. The current collector unit 12 and the current collector holder 14 are located in the direction of the connecting end of the cartridge 10. The outer width of the outer housing 36 is greater at the mouthpiece end of the cartridge 10 than at the connecting end connected by means of a projection 37. This allows the connecting end of the cartridge to be accommodated in the cavity of the aerosol generating device, wherein the projection 37 fixes the cartridge in the correct position in the device. This also allows the mouthpiece end of the cartridge 10 to remain outside the aerosol generating device, wherein the mouthpiece end corresponds to the external shape of the aerosol generating device.

The liquid reservoir 40 is formed in the cartridge for containing the liquid substrate 42 that forms the aerosol. The liquid reservoir 40 is divided into two parts: the first part 44 and the second part 46. The first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located closer to the mouthpiece end of the outer housing 36 and contains an annular space formed by the outer housing 36. The annular space has an internal passage 48 that extends between the opening 38 at the mouthpiece end of the mouth and the open end of the internal passage 26 of the holder 14 of the current collector. The second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located in the direction of the connecting end of the outer housing 36 and contains an annular space formed between the inner surface of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the holder 14 of the current collector. The base 20 of the tubular current collector holder 14 is provided with an annular ribbed elastomer seal 50, which extends between the outer surface of the tubular current collector 14 and the inner surface of the outer housing 36. The seal 50 provides a liquid-tight seal between the current collector holder 14 and the outer housing 36, ensuring that the second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 is capable of containing the liquid substrate 42 that forms the aerosol.

The first and second parts 44, 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 are fluidly isolated from each other by means of a seal 52 made of aluminum foil, which is designed with the possibility of being pierced by the piercing elements 34 of the current collector holder, which allows the liquid substrate 42 forming the aerosol to flow between the first and second parts 44, 46 of the liquid reservoir, which is described in more detail below.

The air passage through the cartridge 10 is formed by the internal passage 26 of the current collector holder 14 and the internal passage 48 through the first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40. The air passage extends from the air inlet openings 32 in the base 30 of the current collector holder 14 through the internal passage 26 of the current collector holder 14 and through the internal passage 48 of the first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 to the opening 38 at the mouthpiece end. The air passage allows air to be drawn through the cartridge 10 from the connecting end to the mouthpiece end.

In the storage configuration, as shown in Fig. 1a and 1b, the base 30 of the current collector holder 14 extends beyond the outer housing 36, and the piercing elements 34 of the current collector holder 14 are at a distance from the seal 52 in the direction of the connecting end of the cartridge 10. In this configuration, the liquid substrate 42 forming an aerosol is retained in the first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 and is isolated from the second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 by the seal 52. Accordingly, in the storage configuration, the current collector assembly 12 is isolated from the aerosol forming substrate 42. Advantageously, sealing the liquid substrate 42 forming an aerosol in the first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 can completely prevent the leakage of the liquid substrate 42 forming an aerosol from the cartridge 10 when the cartridge is in the storage configuration.

In the configuration of use as shown in Fig. 1c, the current collector holder 14 and the current collector unit 12 are inserted into the outer housing 36 in the direction toward the mouthpiece end. As the current collector holder 14 is pushed in the direction toward the mouthpiece end of the outer housing 36, the seal 50 in the base 30 of the current collector holder 14 slides along the inner surface of the outer housing 36, maintaining a liquid-tight seal between the inner surface of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the tubular body of the current collector holder as the base of the current collector holder 14 is received in the outer housing. As the piercing elements 34 of the holder 14 of the current collector move toward the mouthpiece end, the piercing elements 34 come into contact and pierce the seal 52, providing fluid communication between the first part 44 of the reservoir 40 for liquid and the second part 46 of the reservoir 40 for liquid. The liquid substrate 42, forming an aerosol, in the first part 44 of the reservoir 40 for liquid is released into the second part 46 of the reservoir 40 for liquid, and the current collector assembly 12 is opened for the liquid substrate 42, forming an aerosol. In the configuration of use, the fastening region 22 of the first and second current-collecting elements 16, 18 and the corresponding parts of the wick element 20, which extend into the second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40, are capable of drawing the liquid substrate 42, forming the aerosol, from the second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 into the heating regions 24 of the first and second current-collecting elements 16, 18. As a result, in the configuration of use, the cartridge 10 is ready for use for generating the aerosol by heating the substrate 42, forming the aerosol.

Fig. 3a and 3b show an aerosol generating system comprising a cartridge 10 according to Fig. 1a, 1b and 1c in a use configuration, housed in an aerosol generating device 60. The aerosol generating system is portable and has a size comparable to the size of a traditional cigar or cigarette.

The aerosol generating device 60 comprises a generally cylindrical body 62 comprising a connecting end and a distal end opposite the connecting end. A cavity 64 for accommodating the connecting end of the cartridge is located at the connecting end of the device 60, and an air inlet 65 is provided through the outer body 62 at the base of the cavity 64 to ensure that ambient air is drawn into the cavity 64 at the base.

The device 60 additionally comprises an induction heating device placed in the housing 62. The induction heating device comprises a pair of induction coils 66, 68, a control circuit 70 and a power source 72. The power source 72 comprises a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery which is configured to be recharged via an electrical connector (not shown) at the far end of the device. The control circuit 70 is connected to the power source 72 and to the first and second induction coils 66, 68 so that the control circuit 70 controls the supply of power to the induction coils 66, 68. The control circuit 70 is configured to supply alternating current to the first and second induction coils 66, 68.

The pair of induction coils includes a first induction coil 66 and a second induction coil 68. The first induction coil 66 is located on the first side of the cavity 64, and the second induction coil 68 is located on the second side of the cavity 64 opposite the first induction coil 66. Each of the induction coils 66, 68 is substantially identical and contains a flat coil with a rectangular cross-section, made of wire with a rectangular cross-section. Each of the induction coils 66, 68 extends substantially in a plane, wherein the first coil 66 extends in the first plane, and the second coil 68 extends in the second plane. The first and second planes are substantially parallel to each other and extend substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cavity 64 at the connecting end of the device 60. When the cartridge 10 is received in the cavity 64, the current-collecting unit 12 is located between the first and second induction coils 66, 68, and the plane of the current-collecting unit 12 is located substantially parallel to the first and second planes.

Each of the first and second induction coils 66, 68 is designed in such a way that when alternating current is supplied to the induction coils 66, 68, the induction coil generates an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64. The alternating magnetic field generated by each of the induction coils 66, 68 is directed substantially perpendicular to the plane of the current-receiving unit 12 and the current-receiving elements 16, 18.

The induction heating device is also designed in such a way that the second induction coil 68 generates an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64, which is equal and opposite to the alternating magnetic field generated in the cavity 64 by the first induction coil 66. In this embodiment, the first and second induction coils 66, 68 are connected together in series and are substantially identical, but wound in opposite directions. In this configuration, the first and second induction coils 66, 68 generate alternating magnetic fields in the cavity 64 with substantially equal magnitudes, but in substantially opposite directions.

During operation, when the user takes a puff through the opening 38 at the mouth end of the cartridge 10, ambient air is drawn into the base of the cavity 64 through the air inlet opening 65 and into the cartridge 10 through the air inlet openings 32 in the base 30 of the cartridge 10, as shown by the arrows in Fig. 3b. The ambient air passes through the cartridge 10 from the base 30 to the opening 38 at the mouth end through the air passage and over the current collecting unit 12.

The control circuit 70 controls the supply of electric power from the power source 72 to the first and second induction coils 66, 68 when the system is activated. The control circuit 72 may comprise an air flow sensor (not shown), and the control circuit 72 may supply electric power to the induction coils 66, 68 when the air flow sensor detects puffs taken by the user from the cartridge 10. This type of arrangement of the controls is traditional in aerosol generating systems such as inhalers and electronic cigarettes.

When the system is activated, an alternating current is established in each of the induction coils 66, 68, which generates an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64, penetrating into the current-collecting unit 12, causing heating of the heating regions 24 of the first and second current-collecting elements 16, 18. The liquid substrate forming an aerosol in the second part 44 of the reservoir 40 for liquid is drawn into the current-collecting unit 12 through the wick element 20 to the heating regions 24 of the first and second current-collecting elements 16, 18. The liquid substrate forming an aerosol in the heating regions 24 of the current-collecting elements 16, 18 is heated, and volatile compounds from the heated aerosol-forming substrate are released into the air passage of the cartridge 10 and cool with the formation of an aerosol. The aerosol is entrained by air drawn through the air passage of the cartridge 10 and is drawn out of the cartridge 10 through an opening 38 at the mouthpiece end for inhalation by the user.

Fig. 4a-4e show various shapes of current collecting elements according to different embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 4a shows a current-collecting element having two rectangular fastening regions 22 located on one side of a rectangular heating region 24. Each fastening region 22 is essentially identical, has a width and a length that are substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The fastening regions 22 are located at opposite ends of the heating region 24, so that the current-collecting element typically has the shape of the letter "C".

Fig. 4b shows a current-collecting element having two rectangular fastening regions 22 located on opposite sides of a rectangular heating region 24. Each fastening region 22 is essentially identical, has a width and a length that are substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The fastening regions 22 are located at the same end of the heating region 24, so that the current-collecting element typically has the shape of the letter "T".

Fig. 4c shows a current-collecting element having two rectangular fastening regions 22 located on opposite sides of a rectangular heating region 24. Each fastening region 22 is essentially identical, has a width and a length that are substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The fastening regions 22 are located at different places along the length of the heating region 24 at a distance from the ends of the heating region 24.

Fig. 4d shows a current-collecting element having two rectangular fastening regions 22 located on opposite sides of a rectangular heating region 24. Each fastening region 22 is essentially identical, has a width and a length that are substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24. The fastening regions 22 are located at opposite ends of the heating region 24, so that the current-collecting element typically has the shape of the letter "S" or "Z".

Fig. 4e shows a current-collecting element having one rectangular fastening region 22 located on one side of the heating region 24. The fastening region 22 has a width and a length that are substantially shorter than the width and the length of the heating region 24. The fastening region 22 is located in a central position along the length of the heating region 24.

Fig. 5a-5i show further alternative shapes of current collecting elements in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 5a-5c show current-receiving elements having substantially rectangular heating regions 24 and fastening regions 22, wherein each fastening region 22 of each current-receiving element is substantially identical and has a width and length that are substantially shorter than the width and length of the heating region 24.

Fig. 5a shows a current-receiving element having two pairs of fastening regions 22 located at opposite ends of a heating region 24. Each pair of fastening regions includes one fastening region 22 located on one side of the heating region 24 and one fastening region 22 located on the opposite side of the heating region 24, so that the current-receiving element as a whole has the shape of the letter "H".

Fig. 5b shows a current-collecting element having a pair of fastening regions 22 located on opposite sides of a heating region 24. The fastening regions 22 are located in the same central position along the length of the heating region 24, so that the current-collecting element as a whole has the shape of a cross.

Fig. 5c shows a current-receiving element having two pairs of fastening regions 22 located in different positions along the length of the heating region 24, at a distance from the ends of the heating region 24 and at a distance from another pair of fastening regions 22. Each pair of fastening regions 22 includes one fastening region 22 located on one side of the heating region 24 and one fastening region 22 located on the opposite side of the heating region 24, in the same position along the length of the heating region 24.

Fig. 5d-f show current collecting elements which are substantially similar to the current collecting elements shown in Fig. 5a-c, wherein one or more edges of the fastening regions 22 or the heating region 24 are arranged at an angle, so that one or more of the fastening regions 22 and the heating region 24 are not rectangular.

Fig. 5d shows a current collecting element substantially similar to the current collecting element of Fig. 5a, with the inner edges of the fastening regions 22 converging toward a central position along the length of the heating region 24 as the fastening regions 22 move away from the heating region 24.

Fig. 5e shows a current collecting element substantially similar to the current collecting element of Fig. 5b, with the edges of the fastening regions 22 diverging in the direction of the length of the heating region 24 as the fastening regions 22 move away from the heating region 24.

Fig. 5f shows a current collecting element substantially similar to the current collecting element of Fig. 5c, with the edges of the fastening regions 22 diverging in the direction of the length of the heating region 24 as the fastening regions 22 move away from the heating region 24.

Fig. 5g-i show current collecting elements which are substantially similar to the current collecting elements shown in Fig. 5a-c, wherein one or more edges of the fastening regions 22 or the heating region 24 are curved, so that one or more of the fastening regions 22 and the heating region 24 are not rectangular.

Fig. 5g shows a current collecting element substantially similar to the current collecting element of Fig. 5a, with the inner edges of the fastening regions 22 curved inward to form concave inner edges of the fastening regions 22.

Fig. 5h shows a current collecting element substantially similar to the current collecting element of Fig. 5b, with the edges of the fastening regions 22 curved outward to form convex fastening regions 22.

Fig. 5i shows a current collecting element substantially similar to the current collecting element of Fig. 5c, with the edges of the fastening regions 22 curved outward to form convex fastening regions 22.

Fig. 6a and 6b show schematic illustrations of a cartridge 10 for an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present invention. The cartridge 10 shown in Fig. 6 is substantially similar to the cartridge 10 shown in Fig. 1a-1c, and like features are designated by like reference numerals.

The cartridge 10 comprises two current collecting units 12 mounted in a current collecting unit holder 14. Each current collecting unit 12 is flat and thin and has the shape of the letter "C". Each current collecting unit 12 has the same three-layer configuration as the current collecting unit 12 shown in Fig. 1a-1c, with a wick element located between the first and second current collecting elements (not shown). Each current collecting element has a rectangular heating area and two fastening areas located on one side of the heating area at opposite ends of the heating area, as shown in Fig. 4a.

The holder 14 of the current collector comprises a tubular body having a side wall forming an internal passage 26 with open ends. Two pairs of openings 28 pass through the side wall, wherein each pair of openings 28 has one opening located on one side of the holder 14 of the current collector and another opening located on the opposite side of the holder 14 of the current collector.

In this embodiment, each of the two current-collecting units 12 is located substantially outside the internal passage 26 of the tubular current-collecting holder 14 and extends in a plane parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the current-collecting holder 14. The heating region of each current-collecting element is located completely outside the internal passage 26, and each of the fastening regions extends through one of the openings 28 in the side wall of the current-collecting holder.

The current collector holder comprises a base 30 that partially closes one end of the internal passage 26. In this embodiment, the base 32 forms a liquid-tight seal with the internal passage 26, so that the internal passage is configured to retain liquid. The base 30 comprises a plurality of air inlets 32; however, the air inlets 32 are located outside the internal passage 26.

The holder 14 of the current collector additionally comprises a pair of piercing elements 34 extending from the inner surface of the side wall into the inner passage 26 in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the holder 14 of the current collector.

The cartridge 10 further comprises an outer housing 36, which typically forms a hollow cylinder, forming an internal space in which the current collecting unit 12 and the current collecting holder 14 are placed. The outer housing 36 forms a first part of the cartridge 10, and the current collecting unit 12 and the current collecting holder 14 form a second part of the cartridge 10. The second part of the cartridge is designed to slide relative to the first part of the cartridge between a storage configuration, which is shown in Fig. 6a, and a use configuration, which is shown in Fig. 6b.

The cartridge 10 has a mouthpiece end forming an opening 38 at the mouthpiece end and a connecting end configured to connect the cartridge 10 to an aerosol generating device. The current collector unit 12 and the current collector holder 14 are located in the direction of the connecting end of the cartridge 10. The outer width of the outer body 36 is greater at the mouthpiece end of the cartridge 10 than at the connecting end connected by means of a projection 37.

A liquid reservoir 40 is formed in a cartridge for containing a liquid substrate 42 that forms an aerosol. The liquid reservoir 40 is divided into two parts: a first part 44 and a second part 46. The first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located in the direction of the mouthpiece end of the outer housing 36 and contains a cylindrical space formed by the inner wall of the outer housing 36. The second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 is located in the direction of the connecting end of the outer housing 36 and contains a cylindrical space formed by the internal passage 26 of the holder 14 of the current collector.

The first and second parts 44, 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 are isolated from each other in terms of fluid medium by means of a seal 52 made of aluminum foil, which is designed with the possibility of being pierced by the piercing elements 34 of the current collector holder, which allows the liquid substrate 42 forming the aerosol to flow between the first and second parts 44, 46 of the liquid reservoir.

The first passage 48 is formed between the outer surface of the inner wall forming the first part 44 of the reservoir 40 for liquid, and the inner surface of the outer wall of the outer housing 36. The first passage 48 extends between the opening 38 at the mouthpiece end and the current collector holder 14. The second passage 49 is formed between the inner surface of the outer wall of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the current collector holder 14. The base 20 of the tubular current collector holder 14 is provided with an annular ribbed elastomer seal 50, which extends between the outer surface of the tubular current collector 14 and the inner surface of the outer wall of the outer housing 36. The seal 50 provides an airtight seal between the current collector holder 14 and the outer housing 36.

The air passage through the cartridge 10 is formed by the first and second passages 48, 49. The air passage extends from the air inlet openings 32 in the base 30 of the current collector holder 14 through the second passage 49 and through the first passage 48 to the opening 38 at the mouthpiece end. The air passage allows air to be drawn through the cartridge 10 from the connecting end to the mouthpiece end.

In the storage configuration as shown in Fig. 6a, the base 30 of the current collector holder 14 extends beyond the outer housing 36, and the piercing elements 34 of the current collector holder 14 are located at a distance from the seal 52 in the direction of the connecting end of the cartridge 10. In this configuration, the liquid substrate 42 forming the aerosol is retained in the first part 44 of the liquid reservoir 40 and is isolated from the second part 46 of the liquid reservoir 40 by the seal 52.

In the configuration of use as shown in Fig. 6b, the current collector holder 14 and the current collector unit 12 are inserted into the outer housing 36 in the direction toward the mouthpiece end. As the current collector holder 14 is pushed in the direction toward the mouthpiece end of the outer housing 36, the seal 50 in the base 30 of the current collector holder 14 slides along the inner surface of the outer housing 36, maintaining an airtight seal between the inner surface of the outer housing 36 and the outer surface of the tubular body of the current collector holder as the base of the current collector holder 14 is received in the outer housing. As the piercing elements 34 of the holder 14 of the current collector move toward the mouth end, the piercing elements 34 come into contact and pierce the seal 52, providing fluid communication between the first part 44 of the reservoir 40 for liquid and the second part 46 of the reservoir 40 for liquid. The liquid substrate 42, forming an aerosol, in the first part 44 of the reservoir 40 for liquid is released into the second part 46 of the reservoir 40 for liquid, and the current collecting unit 12 is opened for the liquid substrate 42, forming an aerosol. In the configuration of using the region 22 of fastening the current collecting elements and the corresponding parts of the wick element, which extend into the second part 46 of the reservoir 40 for liquid, are capable of drawing the liquid substrate 42, forming an aerosol, from the second part 46 of the reservoir 40 for liquid in the heating regions 24 of the current collecting elements.

Fig. 7 shows an aerosol generating system comprising a cartridge 10 of Fig. 6a and 6b in a use configuration, housed in an aerosol generating device 60. The aerosol generating device 60 is substantially similar to the aerosol generating device 60 shown in Fig. 3a and 3b, and like features are designated by like reference numerals.

The aerosol generating device 60 comprises a generally cylindrical body 62 comprising a connecting end and a distal end opposite the connecting end. A cavity 64 for receiving the connecting end of the cartridge is located at the connecting end of the device 60, and an air inlet 65 is provided through the outer body at the base of the cavity 64 to ensure that ambient air is drawn into the cavity 64 at the base.

The device 60 further comprises an induction heating device placed in the housing 62. The induction heating device comprises one induction coil 66, a control circuit 70 and a power source 72. The power source 72 comprises a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery which is configured to be recharged via an electrical connector (not shown) at the far end of the device. The control circuit 70 is connected to the power source 72 and to the induction coil 66 in such a way that the control circuit 70 controls the supply of power to the induction coil 66. The control circuit 70 is configured to supply alternating current to the induction coil 66.

The induction coil 66 comprises a spiral coil surrounding the cavity 64. When the cartridge 10 is placed in the cavity 64, the current collecting units 12 are also surrounded by the induction coil 66.

The induction coil 66 is configured so that when an alternating current is supplied to the induction coil 66, the induction coil generates an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64. The alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil 66 is directed substantially parallel to the plane of the current-receiving units 12 and the current-receiving elements.

During operation, when the user draws on the opening 38 at the mouth end of the cartridge 10, ambient air is drawn into the base of the cavity 64 through the air inlet 65 and into the cartridge 10 through the air inlet openings 32 in the base 30 of the cartridge 10, as shown by the arrows in Fig. 7. The ambient air flows through the cartridge 10 from the base 30 to the opening 38 at the mouth end through the air passage and over the current collecting assemblies 12.

The control circuit 70 controls the supply of electric power from the power source 72 to the induction coil 66 when the system is activated. The control circuit 72 may comprise an air flow sensor (not shown), and the control circuit 72 may supply electric power to the induction coil 66 when the air flow sensor detects puffs taken by the user from the cartridge 10.

When the system is activated, an alternating current is established in the induction coil 66, which generates an alternating magnetic field in the cavity 64, penetrating into the current-receiving unit 12, causing heating of the heating areas of the current-receiving elements. The liquid substrate forming an aerosol in the second part 44 of the reservoir 40 for liquid is drawn into the current-receiving units 12 through the wick elements to the heating areas of the current-receiving elements. The liquid substrate forming an aerosol in the heating areas of the current-receiving elements is heated, and volatile compounds from the heated substrate forming an aerosol are released into the air passage of the cartridge 10 and cool with the formation of an aerosol. The aerosol is entrained by the air drawn through the air passage of the cartridge 10, and is drawn out of the cartridge 10 through the opening 38 at the mouthpiece end for inhalation by the user.

Fig. 8a and 8b show a current collecting element according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The current collecting element 100 comprises a woven mesh of threads. Some of the woven threads 102 extend in the warp direction, and some of the woven threads 104 extend in the weft direction, substantially perpendicular to the warp direction.

The threads 104 running in the weft direction comprise a magnetic material such as stainless steel AISI 409. The threads 102 running in the warp direction comprise a non-magnetic material such as stainless steel AISI 316. The mesh is sintered in such a way that electrical connections are created at the contact points between the threads 102 running in the warp direction and the threads 104 running in the weft direction.

The current collecting element 100 is a flat element extending substantially in a plane. The threads 102 extending in the warp direction are interwoven with the threads 104 extending in the weft direction in such a way that the threads 102 extending in the warp direction extend further outward from the plane of the current collecting element 100 than the threads 104 extending in the weft direction. In other words, the threads 102 extending in the warp direction determine the maximum thickness of the current collecting element 100.

Since the threads 102 extending in the warp direction determine the maximum thickness of the current collecting member 100, the current collecting member holder 14, which is in contact with the current collecting member 100, comes into contact only with the threads 102 extending in the warp direction, as shown in Fig. 8a.

Since the warp-directed threads 102 are not made of magnetic material, the warp-directed threads 102 are not heated directly by eddy current induction or hysteresis losses when the current collector element 100 is subjected to an alternating magnetic field. As a result, the warp-directed threads 102, which are in contact with the current collector holder 14, transmit less heat to the current collector holder 14 than if the threads were made of magnetic material.

For the purposes of the present specification and the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, etc., are to be understood as modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therebetween that may or may not be specifically listed herein. Therefore, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± {5%} of A. In this context, the number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within the normal standard error for measuring the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances, when used in the appended claims, may vary by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount by which A varies does not materially affect the fundamental and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therebetween that may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims (25)

1. A cartridge for an aerosol generating system, the cartridge comprising: a liquid reservoir designed to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; a susceptor assembly in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir, the susceptor assembly comprising a susceptor element having: a heating region containing a first material, wherein the first material is a magnetic material capable of being heated by penetration of an alternating magnetic field into it; and at least one fastening region comprising a first material and a second material, wherein the second material is a non-magnetic material; and a susceptor holder, wherein at least one region of attachment of the susceptor element is in contact with the susceptor holder, wherein the proportion by weight of the first material in the heating region is greater than the proportion by weight of the first material in at least one fastening region. 2. The cartridge according to item 1, characterized in that at least one area of attachment of the susceptor element is located on the periphery of the susceptor element. 3. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1, 2, characterized in that the susceptor holder contains at least one of an electrically insulating material and a thermally insulating material. 4. A cartridge according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that the susceptor holder is tubular and forms an internal passage, wherein the susceptor element extends into said internal passage of the susceptor holder, wherein said internal passage of the susceptor holder extends substantially along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the susceptor element is substantially flat and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. 5. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1-4, characterized in that the second material is at least one of an electrical insulating material and a thermal insulating material. 6. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1-5, characterized in that the second material is at least one of a hydrophilic material and an oleophilic material. 7. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1-6, characterized in that the susceptor element contains an array of threads forming a mesh. 8. A cartridge according to item 7, characterized in that the mesh is woven. 9. The cartridge according to claim 8, characterized in that the heating region contains threads of the first material in at least one of the weft direction and the warp direction. 10. A cartridge according to any one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that at least one fastening region comprises threads of the second material in at least one of the weft direction and the warp direction. 11. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1-10, characterized in that the susceptor element is substantially flat. 12. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-11, characterized in that the susceptor holder is tubular and forms an internal passage, and wherein the susceptor element passes into said internal passage of the susceptor holder. 13. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1-12, characterized in that the susceptor holder is in contact with the second material in at least one region of fastening of the susceptor element. 14. A cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1-13, characterized in that at least one fastening region comprises a plurality of fastening regions. 15. An aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge according to any one of paragraphs 1-14; and an aerosol generating device configured to receive a cartridge, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises: at least one induction coil configured to generate an alternating magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor element of the cartridge when the cartridge is placed in said device; and a control circuit connected to at least one induction coil and configured to supply alternating current to the induction coil to generate an alternating magnetic field.