RU2812623C2 - Aerosol-generating device containing induction heating assembly with first and second lc circuits having same resonance frequency - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol-generating devices.

SUBSTANCE: present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device having an induction heating assembly, a method for controlling an aerosol-generating device having an induction heating assembly, and an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device having an induction heating assembly. The aerosol-generating device contains an induction heating assembly configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate. The induction heating assembly comprises: a current collector assembly heated by penetration of a varying magnetic field therein for heating an aerosol-generating substrate, the first LC circuit, the first LC circuit at least comprising the first induction coil and the first capacitor, and the second LC -circuit, wherein the second LC circuit at least includes the second induction coil and the second capacitor, and a controller. The first and second LC circuits have the same resonant frequency. The controller is configured to drive the first LC circuit with the first alternating current to generate the first alternating magnetic field for heating the first portion of the current collector assembly. The controller is also configured to drive the second LC circuit with the second alternating current to generate the second alternating magnetic field for heating the second portion of the current collector assembly. In this case, the controller is configured to supply the first alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits, and to supply the second alternating current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency. An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-generating substrate.

EFFECT: creation of an aerosol generation device that allows the generation of various alternating magnetic fields.

13 cl, 13 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device having an induction heating arrangement, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device having an induction heating arrangement, and an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device having an induction heating arrangement.

The prior art has proposed a number of electrical aerosol generating systems in which an aerosol generating device having an electrical heater is used to heat an aerosol generating substrate such as a tobacco plug. One of the goals of such aerosol-generating systems is to reduce the amount of known harmful smoke components produced by combustion and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco in conventional cigarettes. Typically, the aerosol generating substrate is provided as part of an aerosol generating article that is inserted into a cavity in the aerosol generating device. In some known systems for heating an aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which it is capable of releasing volatile components that can form an aerosol, a resistive heating element, such as a heating plate, is inserted into or located around the aerosol-forming substrate when the product placed in a device that generates an aerosol. Other aerosol generating systems use an induction heater instead of a resistive heating element. The induction heater typically includes an induction coil forming part of the aerosol generating device and a susceptor located in thermal proximity to the aerosol generating substrate. The inductor generates a varying magnetic field to generate eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the pantograph, causing the pantograph to heat up, thereby heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Inductive heating provides the ability to generate an aerosol without the heater affecting the aerosol-generating product. This may increase the ease with which the heater can be cleaned.

Some known aerosol generating devices contain more than one induction coil, with each induction coil configured to heat a different portion of the current collector. Such aerosol generating devices may be used to heat different parts of the aerosol generating article at different times or to different temperatures. However, for such aerosol generating devices, it may be difficult to heat one portion of the aerosol generating article without indirectly simultaneously heating an adjacent portion of the aerosol generating article.

It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that would mitigate or eliminate these problems with prior art systems.

The present invention provides an aerosol-generating device comprising: an induction heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating substrate, the induction heating assembly comprising: a current-receiving assembly heated by the penetration of a varying magnetic field therein for heating the aerosol-generating substrate. aerosol, a first LC circuit, wherein the first LC circuit at least includes a first induction coil and a first capacitor, wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency, and a second LC circuit, wherein the second LC circuit at least includes a second induction coil coil and a second capacitor, wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit, and the controller, wherein the controller is configured to excite the first LC circuit with the first alternating current to generate a first alternating magnetic field for heating the first part of the current-collecting arrangement, wherein the controller is configured to excite the second LC circuit using a second alternating current to generate a second alternating magnetic field for heating the second part of the current-collecting arrangement, and wherein the controller is configured to supply the first alternating current at a frequency corresponding to resonant frequency of the LC circuits, and supplying a second alternating current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency, or vice versa.

The controller may be configured to supply a first alternating current to the first LC circuit during a first phase to increase the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply, during the first phase, a first alternating current at a frequency , corresponding to the resonant frequency of LC circuits.

The controller may be configured to supply a first alternating current to the first LC circuit during a second phase to reduce the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement from a first operating temperature to a second operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply, during the second phase, a first alternating current with frequency different from the resonant frequency of LC circuits.

The controller may be configured to supply a second alternating current to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the susceptor arrangement from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature that is lower than the first operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply during the first phase of the second alternating current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuits.

The controller may be configured to supply a second alternating current to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement from a third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature that is higher than the second operating temperature, wherein the controller is configured to supply during the second phase of the second alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise a power supply for supplying power to the induction heating assembly.

The controller may comprise a microcontroller.

The microcontroller may be configured to use the microcontroller clock frequency as one or both of the variable frequencies of the first ac current and the second ac current.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise an oscillator for generating one or both of alternating frequencies of the first alternating current and the second alternating current.

The controller may further comprise an oscillator for generating one or both of variable frequencies of the first alternating current and the second alternating current.

The present invention also provides an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the present invention and an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol generating substrate.

The present invention also provides a method for controlling an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device comprising: an induction heating arrangement configured to heat an aerosol-generating substrate, the induction heating arrangement comprising: a current-receiving arrangement heated by the penetration thereof of a variable magnetic field for heating the aerosol-forming substrate, a first LC circuit, wherein the first LC circuit at least includes a first induction coil and a first capacitor, wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency, and a second LC circuit, wherein the second The LC circuit at least includes a second induction coil and a second capacitor, wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to drive the first LC circuit and drive the second LC circuits, the method comprising: energizing a first LC circuit with a first alternating current to generate a first alternating magnetic field for heating a first portion of the current-receiving arrangement, energizing a second LC circuit with a second alternating current to generate a second alternating magnetic field for heating the second parts of the current-collecting arrangement and supplying a first alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits, and supplying a second alternating current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency, or vice versa.

A first alternating current may be supplied to the first LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, wherein the first alternating current is applied at a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits during the first phase .

A first alternating current may be supplied to the first LC circuit during the second phase to lower the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement from a first operating temperature to a second operating temperature, wherein the first alternating current during the second phase is supplied at a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC. chains.

A second alternating current may be supplied to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature that is lower than the first operating temperature, wherein the second alternating current during the first phase is supplied at a frequency different on the resonant frequency of LC circuits.

A second alternating current may be supplied to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement from a third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature that is higher than the second operating temperature, wherein the second alternating current during the second phase is supplied at a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of LC circuits.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" means a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the substrate to form an aerosol. The aerosol-generating substrate is typically part of the aerosol-generating article.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article containing an aerosol-forming substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. For example, an aerosol generating product may be one that generates an aerosol that is directly inhaled by a user inhaling or puffing from a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the system. The aerosol-generating product may be disposable. An article containing a substrate forming an aerosol containing tobacco may be referred to as a tobacco stick in the context of this document.

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating device” refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating system” refers to the combination of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article. In an aerosol generating system, an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating device cooperate to generate a respirable aerosol.

As used herein, the term "varying current" includes any currents that vary over time to generate a varying magnetic field. The term "variable current" is intended to include alternating currents. In case the changing current is alternating current, the alternating current generates an alternating magnetic field.

As used herein, the term “length” means the primary dimension in the longitudinal direction of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article or a component of an aerosol generating device or an aerosol generating article.

As used herein, the term "width" means the basic dimension in the transverse direction of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article, or a component of an aerosol generating device or an aerosol generating article, at a specific location along its length. The term "thickness" means the dimension in the transverse direction perpendicular to the width.

As used herein, the term "cross-section" is used to describe the cross-section of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article, or a component of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction at a specific location along its length.

As used herein, the term “proximal” refers to the user end, or mouthpiece end, of the aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article. The proximal end of a component of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article is the end of the component closest to the user end, or mouthpiece end, of the aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article. As used herein, the term "far" refers to the end opposite the near end.

The first phase may have a predetermined duration. The second phase may have a predetermined duration. The duration of the first phase and the duration of the second phase may be the same. The duration of the second phase may differ from the duration of the first phase. Advantageously, this may cause the system to heat the first portion of the aerosol-forming substrate and the second portion of the aerosol-forming substrate for different periods of time. The duration of the second phase may be less than the duration of the first phase. The duration of the second phase may be longer than the duration of the first phase.

The duration of the first phase can be from about 50 seconds to about 200 seconds. The duration of the second phase ranges from approximately 50 seconds to approximately 200 seconds. The total duration of the first phase and the second phase may be from about 100 seconds to about 400 seconds. The total duration of the first phase and the second phase may be from about 150 seconds to about 300 seconds.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a puff sensor configured to detect when a user takes a puff on the aerosol receiving system. In these embodiments, the duration of the first phase may be based on a first predetermined number of puffs detected by the puff sensor. The first predetermined number of puffs may be from 2 to 5. In these embodiments, the duration of the second phase may be based on the second predetermined number of puffs detected by the puff sensor. The second predetermined number of puffs may be from 2 to 5. In these embodiments, the total duration of the first phase and the second phase may be based on the total predetermined number of puffs detected by the puff sensor. The total predetermined number of puffs can range from 3 to 10 puffs by the user.

In some preferred embodiments, the first phase ends upon detection of the first maximum number of puffs or before the first maximum duration is reached. The first maximum number of puffs can be from 2 to 5, and the first maximum duration is from 50 seconds to approximately 200 seconds.

In some preferred embodiments, the second phase ends upon detection of the second maximum number of puffs or earlier when the second maximum duration is reached. The second maximum number of puffs may be from 2 to 5, and the second maximum duration may be from 50 seconds to approximately 200 seconds.

The first alternating current may be controlled such that the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement is increased from an initial temperature in accordance with a first operating temperature profile. The first temperature profile represents a predetermined desired temperature of the first portion of the current-receiving arrangement over time. At any given point in time, when the actual temperature of the first part of the current collecting arrangement differs from the temperature of the first temperature profile at that point in time, the first alternating current is controlled so as to regulate the temperature of the first part of the current collecting arrangement to the temperature indicated by the first temperature profile at that moment. time.

In a similar manner, a second alternating current may be controlled to increase the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement from an initial temperature in accordance with a second temperature profile. The second temperature profile represents the target desired temperature of the second portion of the current-receiving arrangement over time. At any given point in time, when the actual temperature of the second part of the current collecting arrangement differs from the temperature of the second temperature profile at that point in time, the second alternating current is controlled so as to regulate the temperature of the second part of the current collecting arrangement to the temperature indicated by the second temperature profile at that moment. time.

In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile is substantially constant. In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile changes over time.

In some embodiments, the second operating temperature profile is substantially constant. In some embodiments, the second operating temperature profile changes over time.

In some embodiments, in at least a portion of the first phase, the first operating temperature profile exceeds the second operating temperature profile. In these embodiments, in at least a portion of the first phase, the first operating temperature profile exceeds the second operating temperature profile by at least about 50 degrees Celsius. The first operating temperature profile may exceed the second operating temperature profile throughout the first phase.

In some embodiments, in the second phase, the first operating temperature profile and the second operating temperature profile are substantially the same. In some embodiments, in the second phase, the second operating temperature profile is within about 5 degrees Celsius of the first operating temperature profile.

In some embodiments, in at least a portion of the second phase, the second operating temperature profile exceeds the first operating temperature profile. In these embodiments, in the second phase, the second operating temperature profile may exceed the first operating temperature profile by no more than about 50 degrees Celsius.

In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile is substantially constant during at least a portion of the first phase. The first operating temperature profile may be constant during the first phase.

In some embodiments, the first operating temperature profile is substantially constant during at least a portion of the second phase. The first operating temperature profile may be constant during the second phase.

In some embodiments, the second operating temperature profile is substantially constant during at least a portion of the second phase. The second operating temperature profile may be constant during the second phase.

The first operating temperature profile may range from about 180 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius during at least a portion of the first phase. The first operating temperature profile may range from about 160 degrees Celsius to about 260 degrees Celsius during at least a portion of the second phase. The second operating temperature profile may range from about 180 degrees Celsius to about 300 degrees Celsius during at least a portion of the second phase.

The current collecting arrangement may have any suitable shape. The current-receiving arrangement may have a one-piece structure. The current-receiving arrangement may contain several integral structures. The current-receiving arrangement can be oblong. The current collecting arrangement may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the current collector arrangement may have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other polygonal cross-section.

In some embodiments, the current collecting arrangement may include an internal heating element. As used herein, the term "internal heating element" refers to a heating element configured to be inserted into an aerosol-generating substrate.

In some embodiments, the susceptor arrangement may be configured to penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is placed in the device. In these embodiments, the internal heating element is preferably configured to be inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal heating element may be in the form of a plate. The internal heating element may be in the form of a pin. The internal heating element may be cone-shaped. In the case where the aerosol generating device includes a device cavity for receiving the aerosol generating substrate, preferably an internal heating element extends into the device cavity.

In some embodiments, the current collecting arrangement may be an external heating element. As used herein, the term “external heating element” refers to a heating element configured to heat the outer surface of the aerosol-forming substrate. The external heating element is preferably configured to at least partially enclose the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is placed in the aerosol-generating device. The susceptor arrangement may be configured to heat the outer surface of the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is placed in a cavity of the susceptor assembly.

The susceptor arrangement may be configured to substantially surround the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is placed in the device.

The current-receiving arrangement may include a cavity for housing an aerosol-forming substrate. The current-receiving arrangement may comprise an outer side and an inner side opposite the outer side. The inner side may at least partially define a cavity of the current-receiving arrangement for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate. The first part of the current-receiving arrangement may be tubular and form part of the cavity of the current-receiving arrangement. The second part of the current-receiving arrangement may be tubular and form part of the cavity of the current-receiving arrangement.

In some embodiments, the susceptor assembly includes multiple internal cavities to accommodate the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal cavity of the first current-receiving arrangement part may define a first current-receiving arrangement cavity, and the internal cavity of the second current-receiving arrangement part may define a second current-receiving arrangement cavity.

In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor arrangement comprises a single internal cavity for housing the aerosol-forming substrate. In these embodiments, the internal cavity of the first susceptor assembly portion forms part of a single internal cavity of the susceptor arrangement, and the internal cavity of the second susceptor assembly portion forms a second portion of a single internal cavity of the susceptor arrangement. In some preferred embodiments, the susceptor assembly is a tubular susceptor assembly. The inner surface of the tubular current-receiving arrangement may define a cavity of the current-receiving arrangement.

In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device includes a device cavity for housing an aerosol-generating substrate, the current-receiving arrangement may at least partially surround the device cavity. The cavity of the current receiving arrangement may be aligned with the cavity of the device.

In some embodiments, the current-receiving arrangement includes at least one internal heating element and at least one external heating element.

The current collecting arrangement contains at least one current collector. The current collector arrangement may contain a single current collector. The current collector arrangement may consist of a single current collector. The first part of the current collector arrangement may include a first current collector. The second part of the pantograph arrangement may include a second pantograph.

As used herein, the term "susceptor" refers to an element containing a material that is capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat. When the pantograph is in a changing magnetic field, the pantograph heats up. Heating of the pantograph may result from at least one of hysteresis losses and eddy currents induced in the pantograph, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the pantograph material.

The current collector may comprise any suitable material. The current collector may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferred pantographs may be heated to temperatures in excess of approximately 250 degrees Celsius. Preferred current collectors may be formed from an electrically conductive material. As used herein, the term "electrically conductive" refers to materials having an electrical resistivity of less than or equal to 1×10 ^-4 ohm-meter (Ohm⋅m), at twenty degrees Celsius. Preferred current collectors may be formed from a thermally conductive material. As used herein, the term "thermal conductive material" is used to describe a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 10 watts per meter-Kelvin (W/(m⋅K)) at 23 degrees Celsius and 50 percent relative humidity, when measured using the modified transient planar source (MTPS).

Suitable materials for the current collector include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel compounds, titanium and composite metal materials. Some preferred current collectors contain metal or carbon. Some preferred current collectors contain ferromagnetic material, such as ferritic iron, a ferromagnetic alloy such as ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel, ferromagnetic particles and ferrite. Some preferred current collectors are composed of ferromagnetic material. A suitable pantograph may contain aluminum. A suitable pantograph may consist of aluminum. The current collector may contain at least about 5 percent, at least about 20 percent, at least about 50 percent, or at least about 90 ferromagnetic or paramagnetic materials.

Preferably, the current collector is formed from a material that is substantially impermeable to gas. In other words, preferably the current collector is formed from a material that is not permeable to gas.

The current collector of the current collecting arrangement may have any suitable shape. For example, the pantograph may be oblong. The pantograph may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the pantograph may have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other polygonal cross-section.

The first part of the current collector arrangement may be a tubular current collector. The second part of the current collector arrangement may be a tubular current collector. The tubular current collector contains an annular body defining an internal cavity. The cavity of the current collector can be configured to accommodate a substrate that forms an aerosol. The pantograph cavity may be an open cavity. The pantograph cavity may be open at one end. The pantograph cavity can be open at both ends.

In some multiple pantograph embodiments, all pantographs may be substantially identical. For example, the second pantograph may be substantially identical to the first pantograph. All pantographs can be formed from the same material. All pantographs can have the same shape and size. Making each pantograph identical to the other pantographs can ensure that each pantograph is heated to substantially the same temperature and heated at substantially the same rate when a given varying magnetic field is applied.

In some embodiments, the second pantograph differs from the first pantograph in at least one characteristic. The second pantograph may be formed from a material different from the material of the first pantograph. The shape and dimensions of the second pantograph may be different from the shape and dimensions of the first pantograph. The second pantograph may have a length that is greater than the length of the first pantograph. Making each pantograph different from other pantographs can ensure that each pantograph is adapted to optimally heat different aerosol-forming substrates.

In one example, the first aerosol-forming substrate may require heating to a first temperature in order to generate a first aerosol with the desired characteristics, and the second aerosol-forming substrate may require heating to a second temperature different from the first temperature in order to generate a second aerosol with the desired characteristics. . In this example, the first susceptor may be formed from a first material suitable for heating the first aerosol-forming substrate to a first temperature, and the second susceptor may be formed from a second material different from the first material suitable for heating the second aerosol-forming substrate to second temperature.

In another example, an aerosol-generating article may comprise a first aerosol-generating substrate having a first length, and a second aerosol-generating substrate having a second length different from the first length, such that heating the second aerosol-generating substrate generates a different amount of aerosol, than heating the first aerosol-forming substrate. In this embodiment, the first pantograph may have a length substantially equal to the first length, and the second pantograph may have a length substantially equal to the second length.

In some preferred embodiments, the first pantograph is an elongated tubular pantograph and the second pantograph is an oblong tubular pantograph. In these preferred embodiments, the first pantograph and the second pantograph may be substantially aligned. In other words, the first pantograph and the second pantograph may be coaxially aligned.

The current collector arrangement may contain any suitable number of current collectors. The current collector arrangement may contain several current collectors. The current collector arrangement may contain at least two current collectors. For example, a pantograph arrangement may comprise three, four, five, or six pantographs. If the pantograph arrangement contains more than two pantographs, an intermediate element can be placed between each adjacent pair of pantographs.

In some preferred embodiments, the pantograph may comprise a pantograph layer provided on the support body. In embodiments with a first pantograph and a second pantograph, each of the first pantograph and the second pantograph may be formed from a support body and a pantograph layer. The placement of a pantograph in a changing magnetic field induces eddy currents in close proximity to the surface of the pantograph, that is, it creates an effect called the skin effect. Accordingly, it is possible to form a susceptor from a relatively thin layer of susceptor material, which at the same time ensures efficient heating of the susceptor in the presence of a changing magnetic field. Constructing the susceptor from a support body and a relatively thin susceptor layer can facilitate the production of an aerosol generating article that is simple, inexpensive and reliable.

The supporting main part can be made of a material that is not subject to induction heating. Advantageously, this can reduce heating of the pantograph surfaces that are not in contact with the aerosol-generating substrate, where the surfaces of the support body form pantograph surfaces that are not in contact with the aerosol-generating substrate.

The support body may contain electrical insulating material. As used herein, the term “electrical insulating” refers to materials having an electrical resistivity of at least 1×10 ⁴ ohm-meter (Ω⋅m) at twenty degrees Celsius.

The supporting main part can be thermally insulating. As used herein, the term "thermal insulating material" is used to describe a material having a volumetric thermal conductivity of less than or equal to approximately 40 watts per meter-Kelvin (W/(m⋅K)) at a temperature of 23 degrees Celsius and 50 percent relative humidity, when measured with using the modified transient planar source (MTPS) method.

Forming the support body of thermal insulation material can provide a thermal insulation barrier between the current collector layer and other components of the induction heating arrangement, such as an induction coil surrounding the current collector assembly. Advantageously, this can reduce heat transfer between the current collector and other components of the induction heating system.

The support body may be a tubular support body, and a current collector layer may be provided on an inner surface of the tubular support body. By providing a susceptor layer on the inner surface of the support body, it is possible to position the susceptor layer adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity of the susceptor arrangement, improving heat transfer between the susceptor layer and the aerosol-forming substrate.

In some preferred embodiments with a first pantograph and a second pantograph, the first pantograph comprises a tubular support body formed from a thermal insulating material and a pantograph layer on an inner surface of the tubular support body. In some preferred embodiments, the second pantograph comprises a tubular support body formed from a thermal insulation material and a pantograph layer on an inner surface of the tubular support body.

The current collector may be provided with a protective outer layer, such as a protective ceramic layer or a protective glass layer. The protective outer layer can improve the strength of the pantograph and make the pantograph easier to clean. The protective outer layer may substantially enclose the current collector. The current collector may contain a protective coating formed from glass, ceramics or inert metal.

The current-receiving arrangement may include a space between a first part of the current-receiving arrangement and a second part of the current-receiving arrangement.

The gap may be of any suitable size to provide thermal insulation between the first portion of the current collection arrangement and the second portion of the current collection arrangement.

The current-receiving arrangement may comprise an intermediate element located between the first part of the current-receiving arrangement and the second part of the current-receiving arrangement. The intermediate element may be positioned in a space between the first part of the current-receiving arrangement and the second part of the current-receiving arrangement. The intermediate element may extend between the first part of the current-receiving arrangement and the second part of the current-receiving arrangement. The intermediate element may contact the end of the first part of the current collecting arrangement. The intermediate element may contact the end of the second part of the current collecting arrangement. The intermediate element may be attached to the end of the first part of the current collecting arrangement. The intermediate element may be attached to the end of the second part of the current collecting arrangement. The intermediate element may connect the second part of the current collecting arrangement to the first part of the current collecting arrangement. In the event that the intermediate member connects the second portion of the current collection arrangement to the first portion of the current collection arrangement, the intermediate member may provide structural support to the current collection arrangement. Advantageously, the intermediate element can provide the current-receiving arrangement as a single integral element that can be easily removed from the induction heating arrangement and replaced.

The intermediate element may have any suitable shape. The intermediate element may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the intermediate element may have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular or other polygonal cross-section. The intermediate element may be tubular. The tubular intermediate element contains an annular body defining an internal cavity. The intermediate element may be configured to allow gas to penetrate from the outside of the intermediate element into the internal cavity. The cavity of the intermediate element can be configured to accommodate a part of the aerosol-generating product. The cavity of the intermediate element may be an open cavity. The spacer cavity may be open at one end. The cavity of the intermediate element can be open at both ends.

In some preferred embodiments, the first part of the susceptor arrangement and the second part of the susceptor arrangement are tubular susceptors, and the intermediate element is a tubular intermediate element. In these embodiments, the tubular first pantograph, tubular second pantograph, and tubular intermediate member may be substantially aligned. The tubular first pantograph, the tubular intermediate member, and the tubular second pantograph may be arranged end to end in the form of a tubular rod. The internal cavities of the tubular first pantograph, the tubular intermediate member, and the tubular second pantograph may be substantially aligned. The internal cavities of the tubular first pantograph, the tubular intermediate element and the tubular second pantograph may form a cavity of the pantograph arrangement.

The intermediate element may be formed from any suitable material.

In preferred embodiments, the intermediate element is formed from a different material with respect to the first part of the current-receiving arrangement and the second part of the current-receiving arrangement.

The intermediate element may contain thermal insulating material to provide thermal insulation of the first part of the current-receiving arrangement from the second part of the current-receiving arrangement. The intermediate element may comprise a material having a volumetric thermal conductivity of less than or equal to approximately 100 milliwatts per meter-Kelvin (mW/(m⋅K)) at a temperature of 23 degrees Celsius and 50 percent relative humidity, as measured using the modified transient planar source (MTPS) method ). Providing an intermediate member formed of a thermal insulation material in the space between the first current collection assembly portion and the second current collection assembly portion can further reduce heat transfer between the first current collection assembly portion and the second current collection assembly portion. Advantageously, this may improve the ability of the current-receiving arrangement to selectively heat individual portions of the aerosol-forming substrate. This may also make it possible to reduce the size of the gap between the first part of the current collection arrangement and the second part of the current collection arrangement and, in turn, reduce the size of the current collection arrangement.

The intermediate element may contain electrically insulating material to provide electrical insulation of the first part of the current collecting arrangement from the second part of the current collecting arrangement. The current collector may comprise a material having an electrical resistivity of at least 1×10 ⁴ ohm-meter (Ohm⋅m) at twenty degrees Celsius.

The intermediate element may comprise at least one of the following: thermal insulating material for providing thermal insulation of the first part of the current collecting arrangement from the second part of the current collecting arrangement; and an electrical insulating material for providing electrical insulation of the first part of the current collecting arrangement from the second part of the current collecting arrangement. In some preferred embodiments, the intermediate element comprises thermal insulation material for providing thermal insulation of the first part of the current collection arrangement from the second part of the current collection arrangement and electrically insulating material for providing electrical insulation of the first part of the current collection arrangement from the second part of the current collection arrangement.

Particularly preferred materials for the spacer may include polymeric materials such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), liquid crystal polymers such as Kevlar®, certain types of cement, glass and ceramic materials such as zirconia (ZrO2), silicon nitride (Si3N4) and oxide aluminum (Al2O3).

The intermediate element may be gas permeable. In other words, the intermediate element is configured to allow gas to pass through the intermediate element. Typically, the intermediate element is configured to allow gas to pass from one side of the intermediate element to the other side of the intermediate element. The intermediate element may comprise an outer side and an inner side opposite the outer side. The intermediate element can be designed to allow gas to penetrate from the outside to the inside.

In some embodiments, the intermediate member includes an air passage configured to allow air to flow through the intermediate member. These embodiments may not require the intermediate member to be made of a gas-permeable material. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the intermediate member is formed from a gas-impermeable material and includes an air passage configured to allow air to pass through the intermediate member. The intermediate element may contain several air passages. The intermediate element may comprise any suitable number of air passages, for example two, three, four, five or six air passages. In case the intermediate element contains multiple air passages, the air passages may be evenly spaced from the intermediate element.

If the intermediate element is a tubular intermediate element defining an internal cavity, the intermediate element may include an air passage configured to allow air to flow from the outer surface of the intermediate element into the internal cavity. The intermediate element may include an air passage extending from the outer surface to the inner surface. In case the tubular intermediate member contains multiple air passages, the air passages may be evenly spaced around the circumference of the tubular intermediate member.

The first induction coil is configured such that a varying electric current supplied to the first induction coil generates a varying magnetic field. The first induction coil is positioned relative to the current collecting arrangement such that a varying electric current supplied to the first induction coil generates a varying magnetic field that heats the first portion of the current collecting arrangement of the current collecting arrangement.

The second induction coil is configured such that a varying electric current supplied to the second induction coil generates a varying magnetic field. The second induction coil is positioned relative to the current collecting arrangement such that a varying electric current supplied to the second induction coil generates a varying magnetic field that heats a second portion of the current collecting arrangement of the current collecting arrangement.

The induction coil can be of any suitable shape. For example, the induction coil may be a planar induction coil. A flat induction coil can be wound in a spiral, essentially in a plane. Preferably, the induction coil is a tubular induction coil defining an internal cavity. Typically, a tubular induction coil is wound helically around an axis. The induction coil can be oblong. Particularly preferably, the induction coil can be an elongated tubular induction coil. The induction coil may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the induction coil may have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other polygonal cross-section.

The induction coil may be formed from any suitable material. The induction coil is formed from an electrically conductive material. Preferably, the induction coil is formed from a metal or a metal alloy.

In case the induction coil is a tubular induction coil, preferably a portion of the current collecting arrangement is located inside the inner cavity of the induction coil. Particularly preferably, the first induction coil is a tubular induction coil and at least a portion of the first part of the current collecting arrangement is located within the internal cavity of the first induction coil. The length of the tubular first induction coil may be substantially similar to the length of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement. Particularly preferably, the second induction coil is a tubular induction coil and at least a portion of the second part of the current collecting arrangement is located within the internal cavity of the second induction coil. The length of the tubular second induction coil may be substantially similar to the length of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement.

In some embodiments, the second telecoil is substantially identical to the first telecoil. In other words, the first induction coil and the second induction coil have the same shape, size and number of turns. Particularly preferably, the second induction coil is substantially identical to the first induction coil in embodiments in which the second portion of the current collection arrangement is substantially identical to the first portion of the current collection arrangement.

In some embodiments, the second induction coil is different from the first induction coil. For example, the second induction coil may have a different length, number of turns, or cross-section than the first induction coil. Particularly preferably, the second induction coil is different from the first induction coil in embodiments in which the second part of the current collecting arrangement is different from the first part of the current collecting arrangement.

The first induction coil and the second induction coil may be arranged in any suitable arrangement. Particularly preferably, the first induction coil and the second induction coil are coaxially aligned along an axis. In case the first induction coil and the second induction coil are elongated tubular induction coils, the first induction coil and the second induction coil can be coaxially aligned along the longitudinal axis so that the internal cavities of the coils are aligned along the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the first induction coil and the second induction coil are wound in the same direction. In some embodiments, the second induction coil is wound in a direction different from the first induction coil.

The induction heating arrangement may contain any suitable number of induction coils. The current-receiving arrangement contains several induction coils. The induction heating arrangement includes at least two induction coils. Preferably, the number of induction coils of the induction heating arrangement is equal to the number of current collectors of the current collecting arrangement. The number of induction coils of the induction heating arrangement may differ from the number of current collectors of the current collecting arrangement. In case the number of induction coils is equal to the number of pantographs, preferably each induction coil is placed around a pantograph. Particularly preferably, each induction coil extends substantially along the length of the pantograph around which it is placed.

The current-receiving arrangement may include a flux concentrator. A flux concentrator may be placed around the induction coil of the induction heating arrangement. The flux concentrator is adapted to distort the changing magnetic field generated by the induction coil towards the current collecting arrangement.

Advantageously, by distorting the magnetic field towards the current collecting arrangement, the flux concentrator can concentrate the magnetic field onto the current collecting arrangement. This may increase the efficiency of the induction heating arrangement compared to embodiments in which a flux concentrator is not provided. As used herein, the phrase “concentrate a magnetic field” means to distort a magnetic field so that the magnetic energy density of the magnetic field increases at the location where the magnetic field is “concentrated.”

As used herein, the term "flux concentrator" refers to a component having a high relative magnetic permeability that serves to concentrate and direct the magnetic field or magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil. As used herein, the term "relative permeability" refers to the ratio of the magnetic permeability of a material or medium, such as a flux concentrator, to the magnetic permeability of empty space, "μ ₀ ", where μ ₀ is 4 π × 10 ^-7 newtons per ampere squared (NA ^-2 ).

As used herein, the term “high relative magnetic permeability” refers to a relative magnetic permeability of at least 5 at 25 degrees Celsius, for example at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least at least 50, at least 60, at least 80 or at least 100 degrees Celsius. These exemplary values preferably refer to relative permeability values for a frequency of 6 to 8 megahertz (MHz) and a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.

The flow concentrator may be made of any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the flux concentrator comprises a ferromagnetic material, such as a ferrite material, ferrite powder held in a binder, or any other suitable material containing a ferritic material, such as ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel.

In some embodiments, the induction heating arrangement includes a flux concentrator positioned around the first induction coil and the second induction coil. In these embodiments, the flux concentrator is adapted to distort the changing magnetic field generated by the first induction coil towards a first portion of the current collecting arrangement of the current collecting arrangement and to distort the varying magnetic field generated by the second induction coil towards a second portion of the current collecting arrangement of the current collecting arrangement.

In some of these embodiments, the flux concentrator portion extends into a space or intermediate member between the first portion of the current collection arrangement and the second portion of the current collection arrangement. Propagation of the flux concentrator portion into the intermediate element between the first susceptor assembly portion and the second susceptor assembly portion may further distort the magnetic field generated by the first induction coil and the magnetic field generated by the second induction coil. This additional distortion may result in an additional concentration of the magnetic field generated by the first induction coil toward the first portion of the current collector arrangement and an additional concentration of the magnetic field generated by the second induction coil toward the second portion of the current collection arrangement. This can further improve the efficiency of the induction heating arrangement.

Since both the first LC circuit and the second LC circuit have the same resonant frequency, strong magnetic interaction may be present between the first LC circuit and the second LC circuit. As a result, it may be particularly advantageous to provide a first flux concentrator disposed around the first induction coil and a second flux concentrator disposed around the second induction coil to reduce magnetic interaction between the first LC circuit and the second LC circuit. If a space or intermediate member is provided between the first portion of the current collection arrangement and the second portion of the current collection arrangement, it may be an additional advantage to extend one or more of the first flux concentrator and the second flux concentrator into the gap or intermediate member. This can further reduce the magnetic interaction between the first LC circuit and the second LC circuit.

In some embodiments, the induction heating arrangement includes multiple flux concentrators. In some preferred embodiments, a separate flux concentrator is placed around each induction coil. Providing each induction coil with a dedicated flux concentrator may allow the flux concentrator to be optimally configured to distort the magnetic field generated by the induction coil. Such an arrangement may also provide the ability to form an induction heating arrangement from modular induction heating assemblies. Each induction heating assembly may include an induction coil and a flux concentrator. Providing modular induction heating assemblies can speed up the standardized manufacturing of an induction heating assembly and allow individual assemblies to be removed and replaced.

In some preferred embodiments, the induction heating assembly comprises: a first flux concentrator disposed around a first induction coil, the first flux concentrator adapted to distort a varying magnetic field generated by the first induction coil toward a first portion of the current collecting assembly; and a second flux concentrator disposed around the second induction coil, the second flux concentrator adapted to distort a changing magnetic field generated by the second induction coil toward a second portion of the current collecting arrangement.

In these preferred embodiments, a portion of the first flux concentrator may extend into an intermediate element between the first portion of the current collection arrangement and the second portion of the current collection arrangement. In these preferred embodiments, a portion of the second flux concentrator may extend into an intermediate element between the first susceptor assembly portion and the second susceptor assembly portion. The passage of a portion of the flux concentrator into the intermediate element between the pantographs may enable the flux concentrator to further distort the magnetic field generated by the induction coil toward the pantograph.

The induction heating arrangement may further comprise an induction heating arrangement body. The housing may hold together the current collector assembly, induction coils, and flux concentrators. This can help reinforce the relative arrangements of the components of the induction heating arrangement and improve the connection between the components. Preferably, the body of the induction heating arrangement is formed from an electrical insulating material.

In the event that the induction heating arrangement includes separate induction heating units comprising an induction coil and a flux concentrator, each induction heating unit may include an induction heating unit housing. The induction heating unit body can assemble the components of the induction heating unit and improve the connection between the components. Preferably, the body of the induction heating unit is formed from an electrically insulating material.

The aerosol generating device may include a power supply. The power supply may be any suitable type of power supply. The power supply may be a DC power supply. In some preferred embodiments, the power supply is a battery, such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The power supply may be another type of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power supply may require recharging. The power supply may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more uses of the device. For example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate an aerosol for a period of approximately six minutes, which corresponds to the typical time required to smoke a conventional cigarette, or for a period that is a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to support a predetermined number of device uses or individual activations. In one embodiment, the power supply is a DC power supply having a DC supply voltage in the range of about 2.5 volts to about 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of about 1 amp to about 10 amps (which corresponds to DC power supply power ranging from approximately 2.5 watts to approximately 45 watts).

The aerosol generating device may include a controller coupled to an induction heating arrangement and a power supply. In particular, the aerosol generating device may include a controller coupled to the first induction coil and the second induction coil and the power supply. The controller is configured to control the power supply to the induction heating assembly from the power supply. The controller may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuit capable of providing control. The controller may contain additional electronic components. The controller may be configured to control the supply of current to the induction heating arrangement. Current may be supplied to the induction heating assembly continuously upon activation of the aerosol generating device, or may be supplied intermittently, such as from puff to puff.

The aerosol generating device may advantageously comprise a DC/AC converter, which may include a Class C, Class D or Class E power amplifier. The DC/AC converter may be located between the power supply and the induction heating arrangement.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise a DC/DC converter between the power supply and the DC/AC converter. The controller may be adapted to control the first alternating current by controlling the amplitude of the first alternating current using a DC-DC converter. The controller may be adapted to control the second alternating current by controlling the amplitude of the second alternating current using a dc-to-dc converter.

In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to drive the first alternating current in the form of a plurality of pulses. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the first alternating current via pulse width modulation.

In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to drive the second alternating current in the form of a plurality of pulses. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the second alternating current via pulse width modulation.

The aerosol generating device may include a first switch between the power supply and the first induction coil and a second switch between the power supply and the second induction coil. The controller may be adapted to turn the first switch on and off at a first switching frequency to drive a first alternating current in the first induction coil while the second switch remains turned off. The controller may be adapted to turn the second switch on and off at a second switching frequency to drive a second alternating current in the second induction coil while the first switch remains turned off.

The controller may be configured to supply alternating current to the induction heating arrangement at any suitable frequency. The controller may be configured to supply alternating current to the induction heating assembly at a frequency of from about 5 kilohertz to about 30 megahertz. In some preferred embodiments, the controller is configured to supply alternating current to the induction heating assembly from about 5 kilohertz to about 500 kilohertz. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to supply high frequency alternating current to the induction heating arrangement. As used herein, the term “high frequency alternating current” refers to alternating current with a frequency of about 500 kilohertz to about 30 megahertz. The high frequency alternating current may have a frequency of from about 1 megahertz to about 30 megahertz, such as from about 1 megahertz to about 10 megahertz, or for example from about 5 megahertz to about 8 megahertz.

The aerosol generating device may comprise a device housing. The body of the device may be oblong. The device body may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of such materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for use in the food or pharmaceutical industries, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. Preferably the material is light and non-fragile.

The device body may define a device cavity for housing the aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity of the device may be configured to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. The cavity of the device can have any suitable shape and size. The cavity of the device may be substantially cylindrical. The device cavity may have a substantially circular cross-section.

The current-receiving arrangement can be placed in the cavity of the device. The current-receiving arrangement may be placed around the cavity of the device. In case the current collection arrangement is a tubular current collection arrangement, the current collection arrangement may surround a device cavity. The inner surface of the current-receiving arrangement may form an inner surface of the device cavity.

The first induction coil and the second induction coil may be placed in the cavity of the device. The first induction coil and the second induction coil may be placed around the cavity of the device. The first induction coil and the second induction coil may surround the device cavity. The inner surface of the first induction coil and the second induction coil may define an inner surface of the device cavity.

The device may have a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end. Preferably, the device cavity is located at the proximal end of the device.

The device cavity may have a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The proximal end of the device cavity may be substantially open to accommodate the aerosol generating article.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device further comprises a cover movable over a proximal end of the device cavity to prevent insertion of the aerosol generating article into the device cavity.

In some preferred embodiments, the first induction coil is located near the proximal end of the device cavity and the second induction coil is located near the distal end of the device cavity. In these preferred embodiments, the controller may be configured to initiate heating of the aerosol-forming substrate by driving a first varying current in the first induction coil and subsequently driving a second varying current in the second induction coil. This action heats the proximal portion of the device cavity before heating the distal portion of the device cavity.

The body of the device may include an air inlet. The air inlet hole may be configured to allow ambient air to enter the device body. The body of the device may include any suitable number of air inlet openings. The body of the device may contain multiple air inlets.

The body of the device may include an air outlet. The air outlet may be configured to allow air to enter the device cavity from the device body. The body of the device may contain any suitable number of air outlets. The device body may contain multiple air outlets.

In the case where the intermediate member of the current collection arrangement is gas-permeable, an air flow path extending from the air inlet to the intermediate member of the current collection arrangement may be formed in the aerosol generating device. Such an air flow path may allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generating device from the air inlet and into the device cavity through the intermediate member.

In some embodiments, the device cavity includes a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end. In these embodiments, the device cavity may be open at the proximal end to accommodate the aerosol generating article. In these embodiments, the device cavity may be substantially closed at the distal end. The device body may include an air outlet at a distal end of the device cavity. The aerosol generating device may further comprise an O-ring near the proximal end of the device cavity. The ring seal may extend into the cavity of the device. The O-ring may provide a substantially airtight seal between the body of the device and the outer surface of the aerosol generating article housed in the cavity of the device. This may reduce the amount of air drawn into the device cavity during use through any gaps that exist between the outer surface of the aerosol generating article and the inner surface of the device cavity. This may increase the volume of air drawn into the aerosol generating article through the permeable intermediate members.

In some embodiments, the device body includes a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may include at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The mouthpiece may contain more than one air inlet. The one or more air inlets may reduce the temperature of the aerosol before delivery to the user and may reduce the concentration of the aerosol before delivery to the user.

In some embodiments, a mouthpiece is provided as part of the aerosol generating article. As used herein, the term “mouthpiece” refers to a portion of an aerosol generating system placed in the mouth of a user to directly inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system from an aerosol generating article placed in the aerosol generating device.

In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to monitor the supply of current to the induction heating assembly. The controller may be configured to determine the temperature of the current collecting arrangement based on the monitored current. The controller may be configured to monitor the first varying current and determine the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement based on the monitored first varying current. The controller may be configured to monitor the second varying current and determine the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement based on the monitored second varying current.

The aerosol generating device may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be adapted to measure the temperature of the current collecting arrangement. The controller may be configured to control the first varying current based on the temperature of the current receiving arrangement measured by the temperature sensor. The controller may be configured to control the second varying current based on the temperature of the current receiving arrangement measured by the temperature sensor.

The temperature sensor may be any suitable type of temperature sensor. For example, the temperature sensor may be a thermocouple, a negative temperature coefficient RTD, or a positive temperature coefficient RTD.

In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating device may comprise a first temperature sensor adapted to measure the temperature of the first portion of the current collector assembly. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the first varying current based on the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement as measured by the first temperature sensor.

In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating device may include a second temperature sensor adapted to measure the temperature of the second portion of the current collector assembly. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the second varying current based on the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement as measured by the second temperature sensor.

The aerosol generating device may include a user interface for activating the device, such as a button to initiate heating of the aerosol generating device.

The aerosol generating device may include a display to indicate the status of the aerosol generating device or substrate.

The aerosol generating device may include a sensor for detecting the presence of an aerosol generating substrate. In the event that the aerosol generating device includes a device cavity for housing an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating device may include a sensor for detecting the presence of an aerosol-forming substrate in the device cavity. If the aerosol generating device is configured to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating device may comprise an aerosol generating article sensor configured to detect the presence of an aerosol generating article in the cavity of the device.

In the event that the aerosol-forming substrate sensor detects the presence of the aerosol-forming substrate, the controller may be configured to initiate heating by driving a first varying current in the first induction coil.

In the event that the aerosol generating article sensor detects the presence of an aerosol generating article in the device cavity, the controller may be configured to initiate heating by driving a first varying current in the first induction coil.

The aerosol-generating substrate sensor and the aerosol-generating product sensor may comprise any suitable type of sensor. For example, the sensor may be an optical, acoustic, capacitive or inductive sensor.

The aerosol generating device may include a puff sensor configured to detect when a user takes a puff on the aerosol generating system. As used herein, the term “pull” refers to the pull exerted by a user on an aerosol generating system to receive an aerosol.

Preferably, the aerosol generating device is portable. The aerosol-generating device may be comparable in size to a traditional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length of from about 30 millimeters to about 150 millimeters. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of from about 5 millimeters to about 30 millimeters.

The aerosol generating device may form part of an aerosol generating system.

The aerosol generating system may further comprise an aerosol generating article. The aerosol-generating article may contain an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol generating article may comprise a first aerosol generating substrate; and a second aerosol-forming substrate. When an aerosol-generating article is placed in a device cavity, at least a portion of a first aerosol-generating substrate may be placed in a first portion of the device cavity and at least a portion of a second aerosol-generating substrate may be placed in a second portion of the device cavity.

The current-receiving arrangement, forming part of the arrangement for induction heating of the aerosol-generating device, is configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing substrate forming the aerosol may be a matrix of nicotine salt.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain solid components and liquid components. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate is solid.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain material of plant origin. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate when heated. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized material of plant origin. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized tobacco material. Homogenized tobacco material can be formed by agglomerating tobacco into particles. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises an assembled corrugated sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term “corrugated sheet” means a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel folds or corrugations.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one aerosol-forming substance. An aerosol generating agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds which, when used, promotes the formation of a dense and stable aerosol and which is essentially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the system. 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; polyhydric alcohol esters such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol formers may include polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol. Preferably, the aerosol-forming agent is glycerol. When present, the homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol forming agent content equal to or greater than 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, such as from about 5 percent to about 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and ingredients such as flavoring agents.

The aerosol-generating substrate may be contained in the aerosol-generating article. An aerosol generating device comprising an induction heating arrangement may be configured to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article may have any suitable shape. The aerosol generating article may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The aerosol generating article may be essentially oblong. The aerosol generating article may have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided in the form of an aerosol-generating segment containing the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating segment may contain multiple aerosol generating substrates. The aerosol generating segment may comprise a first aerosol generating substrate and a second aerosol generating substrate. In some embodiments, the second aerosol-forming substrate is substantially the same as the first aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the second aerosol-forming substrate is different from the first aerosol-forming substrate.

In case the aerosol generating segment contains multiple aerosol generating substrates, the number of aerosol generating substrates may be the same as the number of susceptors in the susceptor arrangement. Likewise, the number of aerosol-forming substrates may be the same as the number of induction coils in the induction heating arrangement.

The aerosol generating segment may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The aerosol generating segment may be essentially oblong. The aerosol generating segment may also have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length.

In the event that the aerosol generating segment contains multiple aerosol-forming substrates, the aerosol-forming substrates may be arranged end-to-end along the axis of the aerosol-generating segment. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating segment may comprise a gap between adjacent aerosol generating substrates.

In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating article may have an overall length of from about 30 millimeters to about 100 millimeters. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article has an overall length of approximately 45 millimeters. The aerosol generating article may have an outer diameter of from about 5 millimeters to about 12 millimeters. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may have an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 millimeters.

The aerosol generating segment may have a length of from about 7 millimeters to about 15 millimeters. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating segment may be approximately 10 millimeters or 12 millimeters in length.

The aerosol generating segment preferably has an outer diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article. The outer diameter of the aerosol generating segment can be from about 5 millimeters to about 12 millimeters. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating segment may have an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 millimeters.

The aerosol generating product may include a filter plug. The filter plug may be located at the proximal end of the aerosol generating product. The filter plug may be a cellulose acetate filter plug. In some embodiments, the filter plug may have a length of from about 5 millimeters to about 10 millimeters. In some preferred embodiments, the filter plug may be approximately 7 millimeters in length.

The first portion of the current-receiving arrangement may be adapted to heat the first portion of the aerosol-forming substrate. The first portion of the current-receiving arrangement may be configured to substantially surround the first portion of the aerosol-forming substrate. The second portion of the current-receiving arrangement may be adapted to heat the second portion of the aerosol-forming substrate. The second portion of the current-receiving arrangement may be configured to substantially surround the second portion of the aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol generating article may comprise an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper may be formed from paper. The outer wrap may be permeable to gas in the aerosol generating segment. Particularly, in embodiments providing multiple aerosol-forming substrates, the outer wrap may include perforations or other air inlets at the interface between adjacent aerosol-forming substrates. If a gap is provided between adjacent aerosol-forming substrates, the outer wrap may include perforations or other air inlets in the gap. This can provide a direct supply of air to the aerosol-forming substrate without being drawn in through another aerosol-forming substrate. This can increase the amount of air taken up by each aerosol-forming substrate. This can improve the characteristics of the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol generating article may also include a gap between the aerosol generating substrate and the filter plug. The gap may be approximately 18 millimeters in size, but may range in size from about 5 millimeters to about 25 millimeters.

It should also be understood that individual combinations of the various features described above may be implemented, provided and used independently.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described solely by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

in fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a current-collecting arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention located between a pair of induction coils;

in fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a current-collecting arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention located between a pair of induction coils;

in fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a susceptor arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention;

in fig. 4 is a perspective view of the current collecting arrangement of FIG. 3;

in fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating device having an induction heating arrangement;

in fig. 6 is a sectional view of the proximal end of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 5;

in fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating system of FIG. 5, wherein the aerosol generating article is housed in the aerosol generating device;

in fig. 8 is a schematic illustration of a current-collecting arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention located between a pair of induction coils;

in fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating system according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the aerosol generating system includes an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating device having an induction heating arrangement;

in fig. 10 is a graph of temperature versus time for the current collector arrangement of FIG. 8;

in fig. 11 shows an exemplary circuit arrangement for induction heating;

in fig. 12 shows an exemplary circuit for controlling an induction heating arrangement; And

in fig. 13 is an image of pulse width modulation signals for driving an induction heating arrangement.

In fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a current collector arrangement 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The current-receiving arrangement 10 is an elongated tubular element with a circular cross-section. The pantograph arrangement 10 includes a first pantograph 12, a second pantograph 14, and a space 15 between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14. Both the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 are elongated tubular members with a circular cross-section. The first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 are coaxially aligned, end to end, along the longitudinal axis AA.

The current collector arrangement 10 includes a cylindrical cavity 20, open at both ends, defined by the internal surfaces of the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14. The cavity 20 is configured to accommodate a portion of a cylindrical aerosol generating article (not shown) containing an aerosol generating substrate such that the outer the surface of the aerosol-generating article may be heated by the first susceptor and the second susceptor, thereby heating the aerosol-generating substrate.

The cavity 20 contains three parts: a first part 22 at the first end defined by the inner surface of the tubular first pantograph 12, a second part 24 at the second end opposite the first end defined by the inner surface of the tubular second pantograph 14, and an intermediate part 26 defined by the space 15 between the first a pantograph 12 and a second pantograph 14. The first pantograph 12 is adapted for heating the first part of the aerosol-generating product located in the first part 22 of the cavity 20, and the second pantograph 14 is adapted for heating the second part of the aerosol-generating product located in the second part 24 of the cavity 20.

The first induction coil 32 is positioned around the first pantograph 12 and extends substantially the length of the first pantograph 12. As such, the first pantograph 12 is surrounded by the first induction coil 32 substantially along its length. When a varying electric current, preferably alternating current, is applied to the first induction coil 32, the first induction coil 32 generates a varying magnetic field concentrated in the first portion 22 of the cavity 20. Such varying magnetic field generated by the first induction coil 32 induces eddy currents in the first pantograph. 12, causing heating of the first pantograph 12.

A second induction coil 34 is positioned around the second pantograph 14 and extends substantially the length of the second pantograph 14. As such, the second pantograph 14 is surrounded by a second induction coil 34 substantially along its length. When a varying electric current, preferably alternating current, is applied to the second induction coil 34, the second induction coil 34 generates a varying magnetic field concentrated in the second portion 24 of the cavity 20. Such varying magnetic field generated by the second induction coil 34 induces eddy currents in the second pantograph. 14, causing heating of the second pantograph 14.

The gap 15 between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 provides a space between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 that is not inductively heated when exposed to a changing magnetic field generated by either the first induction coil 32 or the second induction coil 34. In addition, the gap 15 provides thermally insulating the second pantograph 14 from the first pantograph 12, so that the rate of heat transfer between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 is reduced compared to a pantograph arrangement in which the first pantograph and the second pantograph are placed adjacent to each other in direct thermal contact. As a result, providing a gap 15 between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 provides selective heating of the first part 22 of the cavity 20 by the first pantograph 12 with minimal heating of the second part 24 of the cavity 20 and provides selective heating of the second part 24 of the cavity 20 by the second pantograph 14 with minimal heating of the first part 22 cavities 20.

The first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 may be heated simultaneously by simultaneously applying varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the first induction coil 32 and the second induction coil 34. Alternatively, the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 may be heated independently or alternately by applying varying electrical current , preferably alternating current, to the first induction coil 32 in the absence of current being supplied to the second induction coil 34 and by subsequently applying a varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the second induction coil 34 in the absence of current being supplied to the first induction coil 32. It is also provided that a varying electrical current, preferably an alternating current, may be applied to the first induction coil 32 and the second induction coil 34 in sequence.

In fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a current collector arrangement according to another embodiment of the present invention. The current collecting arrangement shown in FIG. 2 is essentially identical to the current-receiving arrangement shown in FIG. 1, and the same reference numerals are used to describe the same features.

Current-receiving arrangement 10 according to FIG. 2 is an elongated tubular element with a circular cross-section. The current collector arrangement 10 includes a first pantograph 12 and a second pantograph 14. The difference between the current collector arrangement 10 in FIG. 1 and the current-receiving arrangement 10 according to FIG. 2 is that the current-receiving arrangement 10 according to FIG. 2 includes an intermediate element 16 placed between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14. In the embodiment of FIG. 2 there is still a gap between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14, however the gap is filled by an intermediate member 16. In this embodiment, the intermediate member 16 is attached to the end of the first pantograph 12 and is also attached to the end of the second pantograph 14. Attaching the intermediate member 16 to the end of the first pantograph 12 and attaching the intermediate member 16 to the end of the second pantograph 14 indirectly connects the first pantograph 12 to the second pantograph 14. Advantageously, the indirect attachment of the first pantograph 12 to the second pantograph 14 allows the pantograph arrangement to form an integral structure.

The intermediate element 16 contains thermal insulation material. The thermal insulation material is also electrical insulating. In this embodiment, the intermediate element 16 is formed from a polymeric material such as PEEK. As such, the intermediate member 16 between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 provides a space between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 that is not inductively heated when exposed to a varying magnetic field generated by either the first induction coil 32 or the second induction coil 34. In addition, , the intermediate element 16 provides thermal insulation of the second pantograph 14 from the first pantograph 12, so that the rate of heat transfer between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 is reduced, compared to a pantograph arrangement in which the first pantograph and the second pantograph are placed adjacent to each other, in a straight line thermal contact. The spacer 16 may also further reduce the rate of heat transfer between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 compared to the gap 15 of the pantograph arrangement 10 of FIG. 1. As a result, the intermediate element 16 between the first pantograph 12 and the second pantograph 14 provides selective heating of the first part 22 of the cavity 20 by the first pantograph 12 with minimal heating of the second part 24 of the cavity 20 and provides selective heating of the second part 24 of the cavity 20 by the second pantograph 14 with minimal heating first part 22 cavity 20.

In fig. 3-7 are schematic illustrations of an aerosol generating system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generating system includes an aerosol generating device 100 and an aerosol generating article 200. The aerosol generating device 100 includes an induction heating arrangement 110 according to the present invention. The induction heating arrangement 110 includes a current collecting arrangement 120 according to the present invention.

In fig. 3 and 4 show schematic representations of a pantograph assembly 120. The pantograph assembly 120 includes: a first pantograph 122, a second pantograph 124, a third pantograph 126, a first intermediate member 128, and a second intermediate member 130. The first intermediate member 128 is positioned between the first pantograph 122 and the second pantograph 124. The second intermediate element 130 is located between the second pantograph 124 and the third pantograph 126.

In this embodiment, each of the first pantograph 122, second pantograph 124, and third pantograph 126 are identical. Each of the pantographs 122, 124, 126 is an elongated tubular pantograph defining an internal cavity. Each pantograph and its corresponding internal cavity are essentially cylindrical with a circular cross-section that is constant along the length of the pantograph. The internal cavity of the first pantograph 122 defines the first section 134. The internal cavity of the second pantograph 124 defines the second section 136. The internal cavity of the third pantograph defines the third section 138.

Likewise, the first intermediate element 128 and the second intermediate element 130 are identical. The intermediate elements 128, 130 are tubular, forming an internal cavity. Each intermediate element 128, 130 is essentially cylindrical with a circular cross-section that is constant along the length of the intermediate element. The outer diameter of the intermediate members 128, 130 is identical to the outer diameter of the pantographs 122, 124, 126, so that the outer surface of the intermediate members 128, 130 can be flush with the outer surface of the pantographs 122, 124, 126. The inner diameter of the intermediate members 128, 130 is also identical to the inner diameter diameter of pantographs 122, 124, 126 such that the inner surface of the intermediate members 128, 138 can be flush with the inner surface of pantographs 122, 124, 126.

The first pantograph 122, the first intermediate element 128, the second pantograph 124, the second intermediate element 130 and the third pantograph 126 are located end to end and coaxially aligned along the B-B axis. In this arrangement, the pantographs 122, 124, 126 and intermediate members 128, 130 form a tubular elongated cylindrical structure. This structure forms the current collecting arrangement 120 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

The elongated tubular susceptor arrangement 120 contains an internal cavity 140. The susceptor arrangement cavity 140 is formed by the internal cavities of the susceptors 122, 124, 126 and the internal cavities of the intermediate elements 128, 130. The susceptor assembly cavity 140 is configured to accommodate an aerosol-generating segment of the product 200, aerosol generating , as described in more detail below.

The intermediate elements 128, 130 are formed from electrical insulating and thermal insulating material. As such, pantographs 122, 124, 126 are essentially electrically and thermally isolated from each other. The material of the intermediate elements 128, 130 is also essentially gas-tight. In this embodiment, the tubular susceptor assembly 120 is substantially gas-tight from the outer surface to the inner surface defining the susceptor assembly cavity 140.

In fig. 5, 6 and 7 show schematic cross-sections of an aerosol generating device 100 and an aerosol generating article 200.

The aerosol generating device 100 includes a generally cylindrical device body 102, with a shape and size similar to a traditional cigar. The device body 102 defines a device cavity 104 at the proximal end. The device cavity 104 is substantially cylindrical, open at the proximal end and substantially closed at the distal end opposite the proximal end. The device cavity 104 is configured to accommodate the aerosol generating segment 210 of the aerosol generating article 200. Accordingly, the length and diameter of the device cavity 104 are substantially similar to the length and diameter of the aerosol generating segment 210 of the aerosol generating article 200.

The aerosol generating device 100 further includes a power supply 106 in the form of a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery, a controller 108 in the form of a printed circuit board including a microprocessor, an electrical connector 109, and an induction heating arrangement 110. All of the power supply 106, controller 108, and induction heating assembly 110 are housed within the device housing 102. An arrangement 110 for induction heating of the aerosol generating device 100 is located at the proximal end of the device 100 and is generally located around the device cavity 104. An electrical connector 109 is located at the distal end of the device housing 109, opposite the device cavity 104.

The controller 108 is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply 106 to the induction heating assembly 110. The controller 108 further includes a DC-AC converter including a Class D power amplifier, and is adapted to supply varying current, preferably AC, to the induction heating arrangement 110. Additionally or alternatively, the DC-AC converter may include at least one of a Class C and a Class E power amplifier. The controller 108 is also configured to control recharging of the power supply 106 from the electrical connector 109. Additionally, the controller 108 includes a puff sensor (not shown). ) configured to detect that the user is taking a puff on the aerosol generating article located in the device cavity 104.

The induction heating assembly 110 includes three induction heating units, including a first induction heating unit 112, a second induction heating unit 114, and a third induction heating unit 116. The first induction heating unit 112, the second induction heating unit 114, and the third induction heating unit 116 are substantially identical. .

The first induction heating assembly 112 includes a cylindrical tubular first induction coil 150, a cylindrical tubular first flux concentrator 152 disposed around the first induction coil 150, and a cylindrical tubular first induction assembly housing 154 disposed around the first flux concentrator 152.

The second induction heating assembly 114 includes a cylindrical tubular second induction coil 160, a cylindrical tubular second flux concentrator 162 disposed around the second induction coil 160, and a cylindrical tubular second induction assembly housing 164 disposed around the second flux concentrator 162.

The third induction heating assembly 116 includes a cylindrical tubular third induction coil 170, a cylindrical tubular third flux concentrator 172 disposed around the third induction coil 170, and a cylindrical tubular third induction assembly housing 174 disposed around the third flux concentrator 172.

Accordingly, each induction heating assembly 112, 114, 116 forms a substantially tubular assembly with a circular cross-section. In each induction heating assembly 112, 114, 116, a flux concentrator extends along the proximal and distal ends of the induction coil such that the induction coil is located within the annular cavity of the flux concentrator. Likewise, the housing of each induction heating assembly extends along the proximal and distal ends of the flux concentrator such that the flux concentrator and induction coil are housed within the annular cavity of the induction heating assembly housing. This arrangement allows the flux concentrator to concentrate the magnetic field generated by the induction coil into the internal cavity of the induction coil. This arrangement also allows the induction unit housing to contain the flux concentrator and induction coil within the induction unit housing.

The induction heating assembly 110 further includes a susceptor assembly 120. The susceptor assembly 120 is located around the inner surface of the device cavity 104. In this embodiment, the device body 102 defines the inner surface of the device cavity 104. However, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the inner surface of the device cavity is formed by the inner surface of the current collector arrangement 120.

Induction heating assemblies 112, 114, 116 are located around the susceptor assembly 120 such that the susceptor assembly 120 and induction heating assemblies 112, 114, 116 are located concentrically around the device cavity 104. The first induction heating assembly 112 is located around the first susceptor 122 at the distal end of the device cavity 104. A second induction heating assembly 114 is located around a second susceptor 124 in the central portion of the device cavity 104. A third induction heating assembly 116 is located around a third susceptor 126 at the proximal end of the device cavity 104. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, flux concentrators may also extend into intermediate elements of the current collector arrangement to further distort the magnetic fields generated by the induction coils in the direction of the current collectors.

The first induction coil 150 is connected to the controller 108 and the power supply 106, and the controller 108 is adapted to supply a varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the first induction coil 150. When the varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, is supplied to the first induction coil 150, the first the induction coil 150 generates a varying magnetic field that heats the first current collector 122 by induction.

The second induction coil 160 is connected to the controller 108 and the power supply 106, and the controller 108 is adapted to supply a varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the second induction coil 160. When the varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, is supplied to the second induction coil 160, the second the induction coil 160 generates a varying magnetic field that heats the second pantograph 124 by induction.

The first induction coil 170 is connected to the controller 108 and the power supply 106, and the controller 108 is adapted to supply varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the third induction coil 170. When the varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, is supplied to the third induction coil 170, the third the induction coil 170 generates a varying magnetic field that heats the third pantograph 126 by induction.

The device body 102 also defines an air inlet 180 in close proximity to the distal end of the device cavity 106. The air inlet 180 is configured to draw ambient air into the device housing 102. The air flow path 181 is formed through the device between the air inlet 180 and the air outlet at the distal end of the device cavity 104 to allow air to be drawn from the air inlet 180 into the device cavity 104.

The aerosol generating article 200 is generally shaped like a cylindrical rod having a diameter similar to the inner diameter of the device cavity 104. The aerosol generating article 200 includes a cylindrical cellulose acetate filter plug 204 and a cylindrical aerosol generating segment 210 wrapped together with an outer cigarette paper wrapper 220.

The filter plug 204 is located at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 200 and forms the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating system upon which the user takes a puff to receive the aerosol generated by the system.

The aerosol generating segment 210 is located at the distal end of the aerosol generating article 200 and has a length substantially equal to the length of the device cavity 104. The aerosol generating segment 210 contains multiple aerosol generating substrates, including: a first aerosol generating substrate 212 at the distal end of the aerosol generating article 200, a second aerosol generating substrate 214 adjacent to the first aerosol generating substrate 212, and a third substrate 216, which forms an aerosol, at the proximal end of the segment 210, which generates an aerosol, adjacent to the second substrate 216, which forms an aerosol. It should be understood that in some embodiments, two or more aerosol-forming substrates may be formed from the same materials. However, in this embodiment, each of the aerosol-forming substrates 212, 214, 216 is different. The first aerosol-forming substrate 212 comprises a collected and corrugated sheet of homogenized tobacco material, without additional flavoring agents. The second aerosol-forming substrate 214 comprises an assembled and corrugated sheet of homogenized tobacco material containing a menthol flavoring agent. The third aerosol-forming substrate contains a flavoring agent in the form of menthol and does not contain tobacco material or any other source of nicotine. Each of the aerosol-forming substrates 212, 214, 216 also contains additional components, for example, one or more aerosol-forming agents and water, such that heating the aerosol-forming substrate generates an aerosol with the desired organoleptic properties.

The proximal end of the first aerosol generating substrate 212 is open because it is not covered by the outer wrap 220. In this embodiment, air may be drawn into the aerosol generating segment 210 through the proximal end of the first aerosol generating substrate 212 at the proximal end of the article 200.

In this embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 212, the second aerosol-forming substrate 214, and the third aerosol-forming substrate 216 are arranged end to end. However, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, a gap may be provided between the first aerosol-forming substrate and the second aerosol-forming substrate, and a gap may be provided between the second aerosol-forming substrate and the third aerosol-forming substrate.

As shown in FIG. 7, when the aerosol generating segment 210 of the aerosol generating article 200 is placed in the device cavity 104, the length of the first aerosol generating substrate 212 is such that the first aerosol generating substrate 212 extends from the distal end of the device cavity 104, through the first region 134 of the first pantograph 122 and to the first intermediate element 128. The length of the second aerosol-forming substrate 214 is such that the second aerosol-forming substrate 214 extends from the first intermediate element 128, through the second region 136 of the second pantograph 124 and to the second intermediate element 130. The length of the third aerosol-forming substrate 216 is such that the third aerosol-forming substrate 216 extends from the second intermediate member 130 to the proximal end of the device cavity 104.

In use, when the aerosol generating article 200 is placed in the device cavity 104, the user can puff on the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 200 to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system. When a user takes a puff at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 200, air is drawn into the device body 102 at the air inlet 180 and is drawn along the air flow path 181 into the device cavity 104. Air is drawn into the aerosol generating article 200 at the proximal end of the first aerosol generating substrate 212 through an outlet at the distal end of the device cavity 104.

In this embodiment, the controller 108 of the aerosol generating device 100 is configured to supply power to the induction coils of the induction heating arrangement 110 in a predetermined sequence. The predetermined sequence involves applying varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the first induction coil 150 during the first puff from the user, then applying varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the second induction coil 160 during the second puff from the user, after the first puff has been completed, and then applying a varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the third induction coil 170 during a third puff from the user after the second puff has been completed. On the fourth puff, the sequence begins again at the first induction coil 150. This sequence results in heating of the first aerosol-forming substrate 212 on the first puff, heating of the second aerosol-forming substrate 214 on the second puff, and heating of the third aerosol-forming substrate 216 on the third puff. Since the aerosol generating substrates 212, 214, 216 of the article 100 are all different, this sequence results in a different user experience with each puff of the aerosol generating system.

It should be understood that the controller 108 may be configured to supply power to the induction coils in a different sequence or simultaneously, depending on the desired delivery of the aerosol to the user. In some embodiments, the user may be able to control the aerosol generating device to change this sequence.

In fig. 8 is a schematic illustration of a current collector arrangement 310 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The current collector assembly 310 is an elongated tubular member with a circular cross section. The current collector assembly 310 includes a separate elongated current collector having a first part 312 and a second part 314. Both the first part 312 and the second part 314 are elongated tubular elements with a circular cross section. The first part 312 and the second part 314 are coaxially aligned, end to end, along the longitudinal axis AA.

The current receiving arrangement 310 includes a cylindrical cavity 320, open at both ends, formed by the inner surfaces of the first part 312 and the second part 314. The cavity 320 is configured to accommodate a portion of a cylindrical aerosol generating article (not shown) containing an aerosol generating substrate such that the outer the surface of the aerosol-generating article may be heated by the first susceptor and the second susceptor, thereby heating the aerosol-generating substrate.

Cavity 320 is configured to receive a portion of an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-generating substrate.

The cavity 320 contains two parts: a first part 322 at the first end formed by the inner surface of the first part 312 of the current collection arrangement 310, and a second part 324 at the second end opposite the first end, formed by the inner surface of the second part 314 of the current collection arrangement 310. The first part 312 of the current collecting arrangement 310 is adapted to heat a first portion of the aerosol generating article disposed in the first portion 322 of the cavity 320, and a second portion 314 of the current receiving arrangement 310 is adapted to heat the second portion of the aerosol generating article disposed in the second portion 324 of the cavity 320.

The first induction coil 332 is positioned around the first portion 312 of the current collection arrangement 310 and extends substantially along the length of the first portion 312 of the current collection arrangement 310. Essentially, the first portion 312 of the current collection arrangement 310 is surrounded by the first induction coil 332 substantially along its length. When a varying electric current, preferably alternating current, is applied to the first induction coil 332, the first induction coil 332 generates a varying magnetic field concentrated in the first portion 322 of the cavity 320. Such varying magnetic field generated by the first induction coil 332 induces eddy currents in the first portion. 312 of the current collecting arrangement 310, causing the first portion 312 of the current collecting arrangement 310 to heat up.

The second induction coil 334 is positioned around the second portion 314 of the current collector arrangement 310 and extends substantially along the length of the second portion 314 of the current collector arrangement 310. Substantially, the second induction coil 314 of the current collector arrangement 310 is surrounded by a second induction coil 334 of the current collector arrangement 310 substantially along its length. When a varying electric current, preferably alternating current, is applied to the second induction coil 334, the second induction coil 334 generates a varying magnetic field concentrated in the second portion 324 of the cavity 320. Such varying magnetic field generated by the second induction coil 334 induces eddy currents in the second portion. 314 of the pantograph arrangement 310, causing the second pantograph 314 to heat up.

The first portion 312 of the susceptor arrangement 310 and the second portion 314 of the susceptor arrangement 310 may be heated simultaneously by simultaneously applying varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the first induction coil 332 and the second induction coil 334. Alternatively, the first portion 312 of the susceptor arrangement 310 and the second susceptor portion 314 The arrangements 310 may be heated independently or alternately by applying varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the first induction coil 332 in the absence of current supply to the second induction coil 334 and by subsequently applying varying electrical current, preferably alternating current, to the second induction coil 334 in the absence supplying current to the first induction coil 332. It is also contemplated that a varying electrical current, preferably an alternating current, may be supplied to the first induction coil 332 and the second induction coil 334 in sequence.

Temperature sensors in the form of thermocouples are also provided on the outer surfaces of the susceptor arrangement 310. A first thermocouple 342 is provided on the outer surface of the first part 312 of the susceptor arrangement 310 for measuring the temperature of the first part 312 of the susceptor arrangement 310. A second thermocouple 344 is provided on the outer surface of the second part 314 of the susceptor arrangement 310. for measuring the temperature of the second part 314 of the current collecting arrangement 310.

In fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating system 600 in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generating system 600 includes an aerosol generating device 602 including a current collector assembly 310, a first induction coil 332, and a second induction coil 334 of FIG. 8. The aerosol generating device 602 is similar to the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 5, and like reference numerals are used to denote like parts.

The aerosol generating system 600 also includes an aerosol generating article 700. The aerosol generating article 700 contains an aerosol generating substrate 702 in the form of a cylindrical rod and contains tobacco tows made of homogenized tobacco and an aerosol generating agent. The cylindrical rod of the aerosol-forming substrate 702 has a length substantially equal to the length of the cavity 104 of the device. The aerosol generating article 700 also includes a tubular cooling segment 704, a filter segment 706, and a mouthpiece end segment 708. The aerosol generating substrate 702, tubular cooling segment 704, filter segment 706, and mouth end segment 708 are held together by the outer wrap 710.

In one example, the length of the aerosol-forming substrate 702 is from 34 millimeters to 50 millimeters, more preferably the length of the aerosol-forming substrate 702 is from 38 millimeters to 46 millimeters, even more preferably the length of the aerosol-forming substrate 702 is 42 millimeters.

In one example, the overall length of the article 700 is from 71 millimeters to 95 millimeters, more preferably the overall length of the article 700 is from 79 millimeters to 87 millimeters, even more preferably the overall length of the article 700 is 83 millimeters.

In one example, the cooling segment 704 is an annular tube and defines an air gap within the cooling segment 704. The air gap provides a chamber for the flow of heated vaporized components generated from the aerosol-forming substrate 702. Cooling segment 704 is hollow to provide an aerosol storage chamber, but is nonetheless rigid enough to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during production and when article 700 is used during insertion into aerosol generating device 602. In one example, the wall thickness of the cooling segment 704 is approximately 0.29 millimeters.

The cooling segment 704 provides a physical offset between the aerosol generating substrate 702 and the filter segment 706. The physical offset provided by the cooling segment 704 provides a temperature differential along the length of the cooling segment 704 during use. In one example, the cooling segment 704 is adapted to provide a temperature difference of at least 40 degrees Celsius between the heated vaporized component entering the distal end of the cooling segment 704 and the heated vaporized component exiting the proximal end of the cooling segment 704. In one example, cooling segment 704 is adapted to provide a temperature difference of at least 60 degrees Celsius between the heated vaporized component entering the distal end of the cooling segment 704 and the heated vaporized component exiting the proximal end of the cooling segment 704. This temperature difference is along the length of the cooling segment 704. element 704 protects the temperature-sensitive filter segment 706 from the high temperatures of the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate 702.

In one example, the length of the cooling segment 704 is at least 15 millimeters. In one example, the length of the cooling segment 704 is from 20 millimeters to 30 millimeters, more specifically from 23 millimeters to 27 millimeters, more specifically from 25 millimeters to 27 millimeters, and more particularly from 25 millimeters.

The cooling segment 704 is made of paper. In one example, the cooling segment 704 is made of a spirally wound paper tube that provides a hollow inner chamber while still maintaining mechanical rigidity. Spiral wound paper tubes can meet the stringent dimensional accuracy requirements of high-speed manufacturing processes regarding tube length, outer diameter, roundness and straightness. In another example, the cooling segment 704 is a recess created from rigid ficell or tipping paper. The rigid ficella or tipping paper is manufactured to have sufficient rigidity to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during production and when the article 700 is used during insertion into the aerosol generating device 602.

For each of the examples of cooling segment 704, the dimensional accuracy of the cooling segment is sufficient to meet the dimensional accuracy requirements of a high-speed manufacturing process.

The filter segment 706 may be formed from any filter material sufficient to remove one or more volatile compounds from the heated vaporized components from the aerosol-forming substrate 702. In one example, filter segment 706 is made from a monoacetate material such as cellulose acetate. The filter segment 706 provides cooling and reduced irritation from heated vaporized components without depleting the heated vaporized components to a user-unsatisfactory level.

The density of the cellulose acetate tow material of the filter segment 706 controls the pressure drop across the filter segment 706, which in turn controls the draw resistance of the article 700. Therefore, the selection of the material of the filter segment 706 is important in controlling the draw resistance of the article 700. In addition, the filter segment performs a filtration function in product 700.

The presence of the filter segment 706 provides an insulating effect by providing additional cooling to the heated evaporated components that exit the cooling segment 704. This additional cooling effect reduces the contact temperature of the user's lips on the surface of the filter segment 706.

One or more flavoring agents may be added to filter segment 706 either in the form of directly introducing flavored liquids into filter segment 706 or by embedding or placing one or more flavored rupture capsules or other flavor carriers within the cellulose acetate tow of filter segment 706. In one example, the filter segment 706 has a length of from 6 millimeters to 10 millimeters, more preferably 8 millimeters.

The mouth end segment 708 is an annular tube and defines an air gap within the mouth end segment 708. The air gap provides a chamber for the heated vaporized components that flow from the filter segment 706. The mouthpiece end segment 708 is hollow to provide a chamber for aerosol accumulation, but is still rigid enough to withstand the axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during the time of manufacture and when the article is used during insertion into the aerosol generating device 602. In one example, the wall thickness of the mouth end segment 708 is approximately 0.29 millimeters.

In one example, the length of the mouth end segment 708 is from 6 millimeters to 10 millimeters, and more preferably 8 millimeters.

The mouth end segment 708 may be made of a spiral wound paper tube that provides a hollow inner chamber while still maintaining critical mechanical rigidity. Spiral wound paper tubes can meet the stringent dimensional accuracy requirements of high-speed manufacturing processes regarding tube length, outer diameter, roundness and straightness.

The mouthpiece end segment 708 provides the function of preventing any liquid condensate that accumulates at the outlet of the filter segment 706 from coming into direct contact with the user.

It should be understood that, in one example, the mouth end segment 708 and the cooling segment 704 may be formed from a single tube, and the filter segment 706 is located in this tube, separating the mouth end segment 708 and the cooling segment 704.

Vents 707 are located in cooling segment 704 to help cool article 700. In one example, vents 707 provide one or more rows of holes, and preferably each row of holes is arranged circumferentially around article 700 in a cross section that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the article. 700.

In one example, there are from one to four rows of vents 707 to provide ventilation for the article 700. Each row of vents 707 may have from 12 to 36 vents 707. The vents 707 may, for example, have a diameter of 100 to 500 micrometers. In one example, the axial spacing between rows of vent holes 707 is from 0.25 millimeters to 0.75 millimeters, more preferably the axial spacing between rows of vent holes 707 is 0.5 millimeters.

In one example, the vent holes 707 are the same size. In another example, the vents 707 vary in size. The vents 707 may be formed using any suitable technique, such as one or more of the following techniques: laser technology, mechanical perforation of the cooling segment 704, or pre-punching the cooling segment 704 prior to its formation into the article 700. The vents 707 are positioned to provide effective cooling for product 700.

In one example, the rows of vent holes 707 are located at least 11 millimeters from the proximal end of the product 700, more preferably the vent holes 707 are located at a distance of 17 millimeters to 20 millimeters from the proximal end of the product 700. The location of the vent holes 707 is positioned such that the user does not block the ventilation openings 707 when the product 700 is in use.

Advantageously, providing the rows of vent holes 707 at a distance of 17 millimeters to 20 millimeters from the proximal end of the article 700 allows the vent holes 707 to be located outside the aerosol generating device 602 when the article 700 is fully inserted into the aerosol generating device 602. By positioning the vents 707 on the outside of the device 602, unheated air can enter the product 700 through the vents 707 on the outside of the device 602 to help cool the product 700.

In fig. 10 shows a plot of temperature 404 versus time 402 during one heating cycle for the first portion 312 of the current collector assembly 310 using readings from the first thermocouple 342 and for the second portion of the current collecting assembly 310 using readings from the second thermocouple 344. FIG. 10, the temperature of the first portion 312 of the current collector arrangement 310 obtained from the first thermocouple 342 is shown by solid line 406. In FIG. 10, the temperature of the second portion 314 of the current collector assembly 310 obtained from the second thermocouple 344 is shown by the dotted line 408.

As shown in FIG. 10, when heating begins, the first portion 312 of the current collector assembly 310 quickly heats up during the first phase 410 and reaches operating temperature after the first period 414 of approximately 60 seconds. The second portion 314 of the current collector assembly 310 heats up during the first phase 410, but much more slowly than the first portion 312. The temperature of the first portion 312 of the current collector assembly 310 exceeds the temperature of the second portion 314 of the current collector assembly 310 throughout the first phase 410. The second portion 314 of the current collector assembly 310 does not reach the operating temperature during the first phase 410. In this embodiment, by operating temperature is meant the desired temperature at which the most desirable aerosol is released from the aerosol-forming substrate.

Also, as shown in FIG. 10, after a second period 416 of approximately 150 seconds from the start of heating, the first phase 410 ends and the second phase 412 begins. In the second phase 412, the first portion 312 of the current collector assembly 312 is heated to a lower temperature, but still within approximately 50 degrees Celsius of operating temperature. Also in the second phase 412, the second portion 314 of the current collector assembly 310 is rapidly heated to operating temperature and reaches operating temperature after the third period 418, approximately 210 seconds from the start of heating.

In particular, in FIG. 10 shows the desired temperature profile for an aerosol generating system, with a first portion 312 of the susceptor assembly 310 adapted to heat the proximal portion of the aerosol-forming substrate and a second portion 314 of the susceptor assembly 310 adapted to heat the distal portion of the aerosol-generating substrate. The proximal portion of the aerosol-generating substrate is located toward the mouthpiece end of the aerosol-generating article that contains the aerosol-generating substrate. This temperature profile on the aerosol-generating substrate allows the generation of an aerosol with the desired characteristics throughout the long period of aerosol generation. Heating the proximal portion of the aerosol-generating substrate before heating the distal portion of the substrate facilitates optimal delivery of the generated aerosol to the user. In particular, it is believed that this occurs because the hot aerosol from the heated proximal portion of the aerosol-forming substrate does not interact with the unheated distal portion of the aerosol-forming substrate during the first phase, and therefore the hot aerosol from the proximal portion does not release volatile compounds from far part.

Such a temperature profile can be achieved by exciting varying currents, preferably alternating currents, in the first induction coil 312 and the second induction coil 314 in various ways. For example, in the first phase, a first varying current, preferably an alternating current, may be driven in the first induction coil 312 during a first duty cycle, and a second varying current, preferably an alternating current, may be driven in a second induction coil 314, the duty cycle of the second varying current is less than the duty cycle of the first varying current, such that the current driven in the first induction coil 312 exceeds the current driven in the second induction coil 314 during the first phase. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the varying current is not applied to the second induction coil 314 in the first phase 410. The opposite may apply in the second phase, such that the duty cycle of the first varying current is less than the duty cycle of the second varying current.

In fig. 11 shows an induction heating arrangement 501. The induction heating arrangement 501 includes a first LC circuit 510. The first LC circuit 510 includes a first induction coil 512 and a first capacitor 514. The first induction coil 512 has a first inductor. The first capacitor 514 has a first capacitance. The resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510 is determined by the first inductance and the first capacitance.

In fig. 11 further shows a first transistor 516, such as an FET, connected to the first LC circuit 510. Additionally, the DC power supply terminals 518 are depicted in FIG. 11. The DC power supply terminals 518 are connected to the power supply, preferably a battery, of the device. The first LC circuit 510 is adapted to inductively heat the first portion of the current collecting arrangement. The first portion of the current collecting arrangement may be positioned adjacent the first induction coil such that the first induction coil may heat the first portion of the current collecting element using one or both of eddy currents and hysteresis.

The induction heating arrangement 501 of FIG. 11 also includes a second LC circuit 520 including a second induction coil 522, a second capacitor 524. A second transistor 526 is coupled to the second LC circuit 520.

The first transistor 516 is adapted to control the operation of the first LC circuit 510. The second transistor 526 is adapted to control the operation of the second LC circuit 520.

Components of the second LC circuit 520 may be similar to those of the first LC circuit 510. In other words, the second induction coil 522 may have a second inductance, the second capacitor 524 may have a second capacitance, and the second transistor 526 may be an FET. Two LC circuits 510, 520 can be connected to the DC power supply in parallel.

In fig. 12 shows a controller 527 in addition to a power stage 528. The power stage 528 may include a first LC circuit 510 and a first transistor 516, as depicted in FIG. 11. Power stage 528 may alternatively include all of the components depicted in FIG. 11. Controller 527 shown in FIG. 12 may include an oscillator 530. The oscillator 530 may be connected to one or both of the first transistor 516 and the second transistor 526. The DC power supply 532 is also shown in FIG. 12. DC power supply 532 may be used to power the elements shown in FIG. 12. Additionally, DC power supply 532 may be used to power controller 527, preferably oscillator 530.

The controller 527 may further include a pulse width modulation module 534. Pulse width modulation module 534 may be adapted to modulate a signal used to drive LC circuits 510, 520. Controller 527 may be adapted to drive LC circuits 510, 520. In other words, controller 527 may be adapted to provide an electrical signal to LC circuits 510, 520.

Pulse width modulation module 534 is optional. The controller 527 may be adapted to drive the first LC circuit 510 using an alternating current of a first frequency. The first frequency may correspond to a resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510. The controller 527 may be adapted to drive the second LC circuit 520 using an alternating current of a second frequency. The second frequency may correspond to the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520.

The resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510 is identical to the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520. The controller 527 may be adapted to supply an alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510 to the first LC circuit 510 during the first phase. The first phase may be a phase during which advantageously the first portion of the aerosol-forming substrate must be heated by the first portion of the current collecting arrangement. During the first phase, controller 527 may be adapted to apply an alternating current at a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520 to the second LC circuit 520. As a result, the second LC circuit 520 will be heated to a lower temperature than the first LC circuit 510. In the second phase, in which predominantly the second portion of the aerosol-forming substrate is to be heated by the second portion of the current collector arrangement, additional alternating currents may be supplied by the controller to the LC circuits 510, 520. In the second phase, to the second LC circuit 520 may be supplied with an alternating current corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second LC circuit 520, and the first LC circuit 510 may be supplied with an alternating current at a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the first LC circuit 510.

In fig. 13 shows an embodiment in which the first LC circuit 510 is heated predominantly during the first phase, while the second LC circuit 520 is heated to a lower temperature during the first phase. This is reversed in the second phase, in which the first LC circuit 510 is heated to a lower temperature than the second LC circuit 520. To facilitate this, pulse width modulation is used. In more detail, at the top of FIG. 13 shows the complementary duty cycles of a first pulse width modulated ac signal (top left) and a second pulse width modulated ac signal (top right). The first pulse width modulated variable signal will be referred to herein as first signal 536. The second pulse width modulated variable signal will be referred to herein as second signal 538. Duty cycle refers to the percentage of time the corresponding signal is on. As can be seen in FIG. 13, the first signal 536 has a high duty cycle of approximately 80%, while the second signal 538 has a low duty cycle of approximately 20%. The embodiment shown in FIG. 13 corresponds to a first phase in which the first portion 541 of the current collector assembly 540 is predominantly heated, while the second portion 542 of the current collector assembly 540 is heated to a lower temperature. Below the signals shown in FIG. 13, a first induction coil 512 and a second induction coil 522 are illustrated. Below the induction coils 512, 522, a susceptor assembly 540 is shown comprising a first portion 541 and a second portion 542. Below the susceptor assembly 540 is an aerosol generating article 542 containing an aerosol-generating substrate. Below the aerosol generating article 542 is a graph 544 showing heating versus distance. The heating is high predominantly in the first portion 541 of the current collector arrangement 540, while in the second portion 542 of the current collecting arrangement 540 the heating is lower. During the second phase, the heating of the current collector assembly 540 will be different. During the second phase, the second LC circuit 520 will heat the second portion 542 of the current collector assembly 540 to a higher temperature, and the temperature of the first portion 541 of the current collector assembly 540 will be lower than in the first phase. To facilitate this, pulse width modulation can be used as in the first phase. The duty cycle of the second signal 538 may be increased while the duty cycle of the first signal 536 may be decreased. The percentages may change gradually from the first phase to the second phase. The duty cycle of the first signal 536 and the duty cycle of the second signal 538 may add up to 100%. Alternatively, the duty cycle of the first signal 536 and the duty cycle of the second signal 538 may add up to a value that is less than 100%. For example, in the first phase, the duty cycle of the first signal 536 may be greater than 50%, such as 80%, and the duty cycle of the second signal 538 may be close to or 0%; and vice versa during the second phase.

It should be understood that the embodiments described above are specific examples only, and other embodiments are contemplated in accordance with the present invention.

Claims (33)

1. An aerosol generating device containing: an induction heating arrangement configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the induction heating arrangement comprises: a current-receiving arrangement heated by penetration of a changing magnetic field for heating the aerosol-forming substrate, a first LC circuit, wherein the first LC circuit at least includes a first induction coil and a first capacitor, and wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency, and a second LC circuit, wherein the second LC circuit at least includes a second induction coil and a second capacitor, and wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit, and controller, while the controller is configured to drive the first LC circuit with the first alternating current to generate a first alternating magnetic field for heating the first portion of the current collecting arrangement, the controller is configured to excite the second LC circuit using a second alternating current to generate a second alternating magnetic field for heating the second portion of the current collecting arrangement, the controller is configured to supply a first alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits, and to supply a second alternating current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency, the controller is configured to supply a first alternating current to the first LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, and the controller is configured to supply, during the first phase, a first alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to supply a first alternating current to the first LC circuit during a second phase to lower the temperature of the first portion of the current collecting arrangement from the first operating temperature to the second operating temperature, and wherein the controller is configured to supply a first alternating current, during the second phase, at a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to supply a second alternating current to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the susceptor arrangement from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature that is lower the first operating temperature, and the controller is configured to supply a second alternating current, during the first phase, at a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 4. The aerosol generating device of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to supply a second alternating current to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the susceptor arrangement from a third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature that is higher than the second operating temperature. operating temperature, and the controller is configured to supply a second alternating current, during the second phase, at a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a power supply for supplying power to the induction heating arrangement. 6. An aerosol generating device according to any of the previous paragraphs, in which the controller contains a microcontroller. 7. The aerosol generating device of claim 6, wherein the microcontroller is configured to use a clock frequency of the microcontroller as one or both of the variable frequencies of the first alternating current and the second alternating current. 8. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims. 1-6, wherein the aerosol generating device, preferably a controller, further comprises an oscillator for generating one or both of the variable frequencies of the first alternating current and the second alternating current. 9. A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises: an induction heating arrangement configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the induction heating arrangement comprises: a current-receiving arrangement heated by penetration of a changing magnetic field for heating the aerosol-forming substrate, a first LC circuit, wherein the first LC circuit at least includes a first induction coil and a first capacitor, and wherein the first LC circuit has a resonant frequency, and a second LC circuit, wherein the second LC circuit at least includes a second induction coil and a second capacitor, and wherein the second LC circuit has the same resonant frequency as the first LC circuit, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to drive the first LC circuit and drive the second LC circuit, the method includes: driving the first LC circuit with a first alternating current to generate a first alternating magnetic field for heating the first portion of the current collecting arrangement, driving a second LC circuit with a second alternating current to generate a second alternating magnetic field for heating a second portion of the current collecting arrangement, and supplying a first alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits, as well as supplying a second alternating current with a frequency different from the resonant frequency, wherein a first alternating current is supplied to the first LC circuit during a first phase to raise the temperature of the first part of the current collecting arrangement from an initial temperature to a first operating temperature, and wherein during the first phase the first alternating current is supplied at a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first alternating current is supplied to the first LC circuit during the second phase to lower the temperature of the first part of the current collecting arrangement from the first operating temperature to the second operating temperature, and wherein during the second phase the first alternating current is supplied with a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 11. The method of claim 9 or 10, wherein a second alternating current is supplied to the second LC circuit during the first phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement from an initial temperature to a third operating temperature that is lower than the first operating temperature, and while During the first phase, the second alternating current is supplied at a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein a second alternating current is supplied to the second LC circuit during the second phase to increase the temperature of the second portion of the current collecting arrangement from a third operating temperature to a fourth operating temperature that is higher than the second operating temperature, and while of the second phase, the second alternating current is supplied at a frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the LC circuits. 13. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims. 1-8 and an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-generating substrate.

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