WO2024017961A1

WO2024017961A1 - Ceramic heater connection

Info

Publication number: WO2024017961A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/070060
Authority: WO
Inventors: Juraj LEHOCKY
Original assignee: Jt International Sa
Priority date: 2022-07-19
Filing date: 2023-07-19
Publication date: 2024-01-25

Abstract

The present invention relates to a heating device for use in an aerosol-generating device and configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate of a heat-not-burn consumable when received within the heating device, the heating device having a longitudinal axis and comprising: a first sleeve; a hollow ceramic heating element, arranged adjacent to the first sleeve along the longitudinal axis; a first non-conductive holder, preferably of a non-metallic and/or non-ceramic material, housing at least partially the first sleeve and the heating element; optionally a second sleeve; optionally a second non-conductive holder; and a hollow insulator, housing the first sleeve, the hollow ceramic heating element, the first non-conductive holder, the second sleeve and the second non-conductive holder.

Description

Ceramic heater connection

Technical field

The present invention relates to a heating device for use in an aerosol-generating device. In particular, the present invention relates to a heating device configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate of a heat-not-burn consumable when received within the heating device to generate an aerosol, which can be inhaled by a user. The heating device comprises a ceramic heating element, which is connected to the remaining parts of the device.

The invention further relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising such a heating device and a power supply. The invention is also directed to an aerosol-generating system comprising such an aerosol-generating device and a consumable.

Technical background

Aerosol-generating devices, Tobacco-vapor (T-vapor) devices, Electronic-cigarettes (E- cigarettes) or Electronic-vapor (E-vapor) devices are facing an increasing popularity around the globe. These devices are able to replace conventional tobacco cigarettes by simulating a similar stimulus. Different types of aerosol-generating devices are presently on the marked and equally enjoy a continuous increase in popularity among users.

One type of these devices heats up tobacco instead of burning tobacco as usually performed in conventional cigarettes. Such a type of aerosol-generating devices is also referred to as a heat-not-burn (HNB) device. These heat-not-burn devices are convenient for users seeking an instant generation of an inhalable aerosol containing nicotine.

The heat-not-burn devices are usually provided with a heating device which comes in close contact with a consumable comprising tobacco. Subsequently, the tobacco of the consumable is heated until an aerosol is formed. The heating devices can be equipped with ceramic heating elements, which generate high temperatures, and which have a better heat distribution as compared to a conventional metal heater. This contributes to a rapid formation of an aerosol so that a user can quickly inhale an aerosol comprising tobacco particulate matter. For positioning the ceramic heating element within the heating device, metal elements can be used, which have a low wall thickness. Usually, the consumable can be inserted through the metal elements and through the ceramic heating element. Furthermore, the ceramic heating element and the metal elements are placed in a housing or insulator.

Such a ceramic heating element with metal elements poses several challenges. For instance, the connection of the ceramic heating element with the metal elements and the remaining parts of the heating device, e.g. the housing or insulator becomes difficult, because space is limited. Furthermore, expansion of the remaining parts due to heat makes it difficult to provide for a reliable concentric connection between the ceramic heating element, the metal elements and/or the remaining parts of the heating device. In addition, the ceramic heating element and the metal elements may be difficult to process mechanically, such as by CNC (Computerized Numerical Control), since they may easily break. Thus, CNC machining for providing connection, such as positively locking mechanisms, cannot be performed.

Conventional implementations using ceramic heaters in heat-not-burn devices fail to account for these challenges or at least fail to account for these challenges to a sufficient satisfaction. This leads for instance to issues relating to the positioning and thus to heating a consumable properly. Therefore, this calls for improvements of such heating devices.

Against this background, an object of the present invention is to address one or more or all of the above-mentioned challenges. Particularly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved heating device for use in an aerosol-generating device. For example, it is an object to provide for improved concentric positioning of a ceramic heating element and metal elements within the heating device. It is also an object of the invention to provide for advances to cope with high temperatures associated with ceramic heating elements and the accompanied material expansions. In addition, it is an object to provide measures to counteract heat dissipation to the surroundings. Another object is to improve electrical insulation of the heating device. It is generally an object to improve the assembly process of the heating device and to improve mounting of the ceramic heating element and the individual parts.

These and other objects, which become apparent from the following description, are solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are subject of the dependent claims, and the skilled person finds hints for other suitable embodiments of the present invention throughout the disclosure of the present application.

Summary of the invention

General aspects of the heating device

A 1st embodiment of the invention is directed to a heating device for use in an aerosolgenerating device and configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate of a heat-not- burn consumable when received within the heating device, the heating device having a longitudinal axis and comprising: a first sleeve; a hollow ceramic heating element, arranged adjacent to the first sleeve along the longitudinal axis; a first non-conductive holder, preferably of a non-metallic and/or non-ceramic material, housing at least partially the first sleeve and the heating element; optionally a second sleeve, preferably a cup; optionally a second non-conductive holder; and a hollow insulator, housing the first sleeve, the hollow ceramic heating element, the first non-conductive holder, the second sleeve and the second non-conductive holder.

The heating device according to the above arrangement may be used in an aerosolgenerating device to heat rather than burn a consumable. The consumable may comprise tobacco, such that aerosol comprising tobacco is generated, which may be inhaled by a user.

The longitudinal axis is understood as an axis that goes in the direction of the largest dimension of the heating device. For instance, the heating device may have the shape of a cylinder. In such a case, the longitudinal axis would be parallel to the concentric axis of the cylinder. The first sleeve may be understood as a sleeve through which a consumable can be received. The first sleeve is followed in the direction of the longitudinal axis by the hollow ceramic heating element. When a consumable is received within the heating device or inserted into the heating device, it usually enters initially the first sleeve and then the hollow ceramic heating element. In this manner, the first sleeve may be located closer to a user’s mouth than the hollow ceramic heating element when the heating device is used. During ordinary use, the ceramic heating element may provide heat to a consumable, which is received in the first sleeve and the hollow ceramic heating element. The ceramic heating element may generate temperatures reaching up to 8oo°C, 900°C, iooo°C or even more.

The first non-conductive holder houses at least partially the first sleeve and the hollow ceramic heating element. This may be understood in such a way that the first non- conductive holder accommodates the first sleeve and the hollow ceramic heating element or engages with both of these parts. As an example, the first non-conductive holder comprises or preferably consists of plastic material, preferably high thermal resistance plastic material or amber plastic material. This improves electrical insulation, because electrical current applied to the heating element may not be diverted by such a holder. Furthermore, the first non-conductive holder may be 3D printed, preferably by way of a digital light process using light and a liquid resin. This expedites manufacturing.

The hollow insulator houses the first sleeve, the hollow ceramic heating element and the first non-conductive holder. Further, the hollow insulator provides the advantage that hot parts of the heating device are substantially thermally separated from the remaining parts of the heating device and/or the aerosol-generating device. This is beneficial if a user touches or gets in contact with remaining parts.

The above arrangement has the advantage that the first sleeve and the hollow ceramic heating element can be connected properly and reliably even under high temperatures byway of the first non-conductive holder. Such high temperatures typically occur during ordinary use of the heating device. In particular, the first non-conductive holder is less susceptible of being heated. Therefore, expansion of the first non-conductive holder is reduced or substantially prevented. Furthermore, the shape of the first non- conductive holder is substantially maintained, e.g. kept the same, during ordinary use of the heating device. This is beneficial for such devices, in which space is typically limited. Furthermore, this improves concentric positioning of the first sleeve and the hollow ceramic heating element. In particular concentric positioning within the hollow insulator and the heating device is improved. This is even more pronounced if a non- metallic and/or non-ceramic material is applied to the first non-conductive holder. This also facilitates a more even temperature distribution to the consumable when received within the heating device. Therefore, the aerosol-forming substrate may be heated in a more efficient manner.

Furthermore, the non-conductive material property of the first holder ensures that substantially no electrical current flows through the holder. Accordingly, electric current is not diverted or otherwise adversely affected during ordinary use of the heating device. This may be important, if the hollow ceramic heating element is heated byway of electrodes which cannot be insulated due to the severe temperature conditions during ordinary use. Thus, usage of the heating device is improved as compared to prior art applying conductive or metallic holders.

Another advantage of the above arrangement is that the assembly process of the heating device is improved. In particular, the mounting of the ceramic heating element and the first sleeve is facilitated and less susceptible to damage which can occur using conventional approaches. For instance, conventional approaches apply metal or ceramic parts, such as o-rings, instead of the above described non-conductive holder. Such approaches have adverse effects with respect to mechanical processing, since the parts (metal or ceramic parts, such as o-rings) may easily break during machining (such as by CNC). Furthermore, concentric connection of the ceramic heating element and the sleeve without an additional part but by means of mechanical processing is difficult, because the ceramic heating element and the sleeve may easily break as well. In particular, this may be important if the sleeve and/ or the ceramic heating element have a low wall thickness as further detailed below. Furthermore, such conventional approaches are expensive and time consuming. Thus, the proposed arrangement additionally paves the way for a cost-effective and fast manufacturing of the heating device. Optionally the heating device comprises a second sleeve and a second non-conductive holder, which are also housed by the hollow insulator. This further improves concentric positioning of the parts within the heating device even under the high temperature regimes entailed by ceramic heating elements.

Preferably, the heating device is configured to heat consumables comprising a nonliquid aerosol-forming substrate. It is also appreciated by the skilled person that a consumable can be at least partially inserted into the heating device. For instance, in case the consumable is inserted at least partially, part of it may be visually recognized from the outside by a user. Thereby, the user may easily realize that the device could be used or could be set into operation. In addition, the consumable can be conveniently replaced by a new consumable, once it is fully consumed. In particular, the user may not be required to adapt or exchange further parts of the heating device in order to enjoy a new consumable.

Preferably, the second sleeve is a cup.

Preferably, the first non-conductive holder is electrically non-conductive. Preferably, the second non-conductive holder is electrically non-conductive.

According to a 2nd embodiment, in the preceding embodiment, the first non- conductive holder is arranged such that the first sleeve and the heating element are maintained substantially centrally within the insulator along the longitudinal axis during use of the heating device.

This is to be understood such that the first sleeve and the heating element do not substantially deviate from the longitudinal axis during use of the heating device. For instance, the first sleeve and the heating element may be displaced at most by 5%, preferably at most by 3%, more preferably at most by 1%, most preferably at most by 0,5% of a dimension of the first sleeve and/or the heating element perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Typically, during use of the heating device, high temperatures, such as temperatures reaching up to 8oo°C, 900°C, iooo°C or even more can occur, which entail expansion of materials and/ or parts in proximity to the ceramic heating element. Such high temperatures are typically difficult to cope with. With the above arrangement a substantially central positioning of the first sleeve and the heating element is ensured throughout usage of the heating device. This is beneficial, since a reliable and predictable thermal distribution is facilitated. Therefore, an improved heating of a consumable is achieved. This might not be the case if the first sleeve and/or the heating element were displaced during use of the heating device. In such a case, the consumable may be received in a tilted, tipped and/ or oblique manner within the first sleeve and the heating element. This may adversely lead to some parts of the consumable being heated to a higher extent than other parts of the consumable. The inventors found a way to counteract this disadvantage.

Another advantage of the central positioning is that the insulator acts in an improved manner, since also the thermal distribution to the environment is withheld to a higher degree as compared to a ceramic heating element which may be closer to one side of the insulator.

Contact between first sleeve/heating element/first holder

According to a 3rd embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element extends at least partially into the first non-conductive holder, and the first sleeve extends at least partially into the first non-conductive holder, preferably from an opposite side as compared to the heating element.

This arrangement is understood such that the ceramic heating element at least partially overlaps with the first non-conductive holder, while the first non-conductive holder at least partially also houses the heating element. Thus, the ceramic heating element may be received at an inner surface of the first non-conductive holder. The first sleeve also at least partially overlaps with the first non-conductive holder whilst being housed at least partially by it. The first sleeve may be received from the opposite side as compared to the ceramic heating element. With the arrangement of the 3rd embodiment, the connection of the parts is facilitated. In addition, concentric positioning within the heating device is improved. For instance, the first non-conductive holder may be the only part that communicates with or that is in contact with the remaining parts of the heating device, such as the hollow insulator. Thus, due to a reduced thermal expansion of the first non-conductive holder, the first sleeve and the hollow ceramic heating element may remain in a substantially central or concentric position with respect to the remaining parts of the heating device, such as the hollow insulator.

According to a 4th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element extends into the first non-conductive holder with a section having a length along the longitudinal axis of at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 0.8 mm, more preferably at least 1.2 mm, most preferably at least 1.7 mm and/or of at most 3.0 mm, preferably at most 2.6 mm, more preferably at most 2.2 mm, most preferably at most 1.7 mm.

The heating element should extend far enough into the first non-conductive holder to improve the concentric positioning and connection. For instance, the heating element should not extend into the first non-conductive holder by less than 0.5 mm. Otherwise, there may be too little communication and/ or contact between the two parts, which would be detrimental in terms of positioning. On the other hand, the heating element should not extend into the first non-conductive holder by more than 3.0 mm. Otherwise, the first non-conductive holder may become unnecessarily large. Thereby, more material would be required, which increases costs. Thus, the inventors found that a balance of the extension of the heating element into the first non-conductive holder is beneficial. This ensures a stable and reliable concentric connection.

According to a 5th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the first non-conductive holder is hollow or has a hollow section and has a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface having a greater circumference than the first circumferential surface, wherein the first inner circumferential surface engages with the first sleeve and the second inner circumferential surface engages with the heating element to form a substantially sealed connection. The first non-conductive holder is hollow, which means that other parts may be received through it or may be received within it. The first and the second inner circumferential surfaces of the first non-conductive holder are shaped such that a difference in the circumference of the two inner circumferential surfaces pertains. The first sleeve is engaged with the first, i.e. the smaller, inner circumferential surface. This is understood in such a way that the first sleeve is at least partially within the first non- conductive holder. This facilitates the connection between the first sleeve and the first non-conductive holder. In particular, the connection maybe such that air leakage between the first sleeve and the first non-conductive holder is advantageously reduced or substantially prevented.

Conventional implementations could not provide for such a reduced air leakage. Thus, the present invention provides for significant advances. This may be even more pronounced if materials such as HI-TEMP 300-AMB is applied, since silicone could stick to such a material in an enhanced manner. Thereby, airproof sealing may be established. Conventional implementations using conductive materials, such as, e.g. steel cannot provide for these advances.

The heating element is engaged with the second, i.e. the larger, inner circumferential surface. Accordingly, the heating element is at least partially within the first non- conductive holder. This arrangement improves the connection between the heating element and the first non-conductive holder. In addition, any air leakage between the heating element and the first non-conductive holder may be reduced or substantially prevented. The different sizes of the inner circumferential surfaces ease the manufacturing, assembling and mounting of the parts of the heating device. Another advantage is that the matching or designation of the first sleeve and the heating element to the individual inner surfaces is facilitated.

According to a 6th embodiment, in the preceding embodiment, a distance between an end of the heating element engaging with the second inner circumferential surface and a closest end of the first inner circumferential surface is at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 0.2 mm, most preferably at least 0.3 mm along the longitudinal axis and/or at IO most 0.5 mm, preferably at most 0.4 mm, most preferably at most 0.3 mm along the longitudinal axis.

The distance according to this arrangement may be understood as the axial distance, e.g. along the longitudinal axis. The end of the heating element may be understood as a front face of the heating element. The distance should be large enough to allow for machining tolerances and/or material expansion. For instance, the first sleeve and/or the ceramic heating element can be subjected to material expansion, if exposed to high temperatures. In such a case the axial distance as proposed in this arrangement may compensate for such expansions.

According to a 7th embodiment, in any one of the 5th or 6th embodiments, an outer circumference of the heating element is smaller than a circumference of the second inner circumferential surface and greater than a circumference of the first inner circumferential surface.

The above arrangement further facilitates manufacturing and assembling of the parts of the heating device. For instance, during assembling, the heating element maybe received within the first non-conductive holder merely from one side, i.e. from the side of the second inner circumferential surface. From the opposing side, the heating element may not be received, since the outer circumference of the heating element is larger than the first inner circumferential surface of the first non-conductive holder. Furthermore, the connection between the heating element and the first non-conductive holder is improved, because the heating element could also be supported at least partially at a front face facing the transition of the second inner circumferential surface to the first inner circumferential surface of the first non-conductive holder.

According to an 8th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the first non-conductive holder has an outer annular surface that engages with an inner annular surface of the hollow insulator to form a substantially sealed connection between the first non-conductive holder and the hollow insulator.

The outer annular surface of the first non-conductive holder may be understood such that the outer surface is substantially circular. This improves manufacturing and assembling of the parts. An annular surface is typically easy to manufacture. Furthermore, providing a substantially sealed connection is facilitated byway of an annular surface. Thus, air leakage between the insulator and the first non-conductive holder is substantially prevented. This may even be the case during ordinary use of the heating device in which high temperatures occur. Using conventional connection parts, e.g. metal parts, such a sealed connection may be difficult to achieve due to material expansions of the connection parts.

According to a 9th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating device further comprises a sealing material, preferably a heat resistive silicone, arranged between an inner circumferential surface of the first non-conductive holder and an outer circumferential surface of the heating element and/or an outer circumferential surface of the first sleeve.

Such a sealing material may be applied between the first inner circumferential surface of the first non-conductive holder and an outer circumferential surface of the first sleeve and/or between the second inner circumferential surface of the first non- conductive holder and an outer circumferential surface of the heating element. In some cases, such a sealing material may also be applied between the second inner circumferential surface and of the first non-conductive holder and an outer circumferential surface of the first sleeve.

The sealing material improves sealing. As an example, an airtight sealing could thus be achieved between the parts. This ensures that the air flow within the device can follow a predefined path, e.g. a path on which it is gradually heated. Thereby, heating of the consumable can be controlled in a targeted manner. Another advantage is that the efficiency of the heating device is improved. Beneficially, the sealing material may be applied in the gaps according to the 6th embodiment, i.e. the distance between an end of the heating element engaging with the second inner circumferential surface and a closest end of the first inner circumferential surface. If the sealing material is of a heat resistive silicone, proper sealing, fixation and positioning is improved under high temperatures during usage of the heating device. The term heat resistive silicone may be understood in such a way that the heat resistive silicone could withstand up to 13OO°C, preferably more. It is appreciated that the heat resistive silicone could withstand at least as much a material of the first and/ or second non-conductive holder (e.g. if HI TEMP 300-AMB material is applied to the first and/or second non-conductive holder).

According to a 10th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the first sleeve has a wall thickness of at most 1.0 mm, preferably at most 0.5 mm, more preferably at most 0.2 mm, even more preferably at most 0.1 mm, most preferably at most 0.08 mm.

The first sleeve should have a wall thickness which is sufficiently low to reduce thermal expansion of the first sleeve. This improves concentric positioning of the parts within the device during ordinary use and/or avoids tilted, tipped and/or oblique positioning of the consumable when received. Furthermore, material is saved, which reduces costs. The wall thickness should be large enough to support a consumable received within the heating device, i.e. within the first sleeve and the hollow ceramic heating element. However, generally a thickness of at most 0.08 mm should be sufficient for this purpose.

Hollow ceramic heating element

According to an 11th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element has a wall thickness of at most 2.0 mm, preferably at most 1.5 mm, more preferably at most 1.0 mm, even more preferably at most 0.8 mm, further even more preferably at most 0.6 mm, most preferably at most 0.55 mm, and/or of at least 0.05 mm, preferably at least 0.15 mm, more preferably at least 0.3 mm, even more preferably at least 0.4 mm, further even more preferably at least 0.5 mm, most preferably at least 0.55 mm.

The wall thickness of the hollow ceramic heating element should be sufficiently large to avoid any damage during ordinary use. However, the wall thickness should not be too large in order to save space and to facilitate a cost-effective manufacturing. A low wall thickness is generally envisaged, since the ceramic heating element provides for sufficiently high temperatures already at a low wall thickness compared to metal heating elements.

Another advantage of a lower wall thickness maybe the heating process. In particular, it maybe appreciated that the hollow ceramic heating element can thus be heated up faster. In addition, it may require less energy, e.g. energy from a battery for heating up the ceramic heating element. Thus, the heating device is more efficient.

According to a 12th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, two electrodes are attached to the heating element, wherein the two electrodes are provided without electrical insulation.

The two electrodes provide for electrical contact between the ceramic heating element and a power source, such as a battery. The two electrodes do not have to have electrical insulation, since the first holder is of non-conductive material. Thus, the electrical current is not diverted, and a reliable operation of the heating device is ensured, as appreciated.

According to a 13th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element is heated by means of resistance heating.

Resistance heating may also be referred to as joule heating, resistive heating, or Ohmic heating. It means that during operation, when an electrical circuit is established, electrical current passes through the ceramic heating element. The passage of an electric current through a conductor, such as the ceramic heating element, produces heat whose power equals the product of the resistance of the ceramic heating element and the square of the current. Typically, two electrodes provide for an electrical contact to the heating element. The two electrodes ensure that a voltage drop in between the two electrodes is applied and thereby over the heating element, to induce a current. Accordingly, the temperature of the ceramic heating element may be increased due to the current flow and an electrical resistance of the ceramic heating element.

As an example, a ceramic heating element may be a thermistor, i.e. a resistor whose resistance depends on the temperature. Further, the ceramic heating element may be made of a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistor, such that the resistance of the ceramic heating element increases at higher temperatures. This may provide for a self-regulating effect. In particular, at certain temperatures, the ceramic heating element may not be heated further, because the resistance has increased to such a degree that it prevents further increase of the electrical current. This is advantageous in terms of efficient heating (less power may be required for the same amount of heat due to an increased resistance) and safety (prevent overheating).

Second sleeve and holder

According to a 14th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the second sleeve is arranged adjacent to the heating element along the longitudinal axis and has a wall thickness of at most 1.0 mm, preferably at most 0.5 mm, more preferably at most 0.2 mm, even more preferably at most 0.1 mm, most preferably at most 0.08 mm; the second non-conductive holder, is preferably of a non-metallic and/or non-ceramic material, and houses the second sleeve and at least partially the heating element; and/or the second non-conductive holder is arranged such that the second sleeve and the heating element are maintained substantially centrally within the insulator along the longitudinal axis during use of the heating device.

For the second sleeve and the second non-conductive holder, similar advantages and features as set forth above with respect to the first sleeve and the first non-conductive holder apply mutatis mutandis. It is noted that the second sleeve is preferably a cup.

The second sleeve maybe located at an opposite side of the hollow ceramic heating element as compared to the first sleeve. The second sleeve may not necessarily be hollow, or may at least be not completely hollow. For instance, it may have a hollow portion, in which part of a consumable may be received during ordinary use of the heating device. For instance, one end of the consumable, i.e. the opposing end of the mouth end of the consumable, may be received within the second sleeve. Thereby, the consumable may be centrally positioned over a large extent within the heating device when received. The second non-conductive holder further improves concentric positioning of the parts and the consumable, assembling and manufacturing of the heating device and avoids disturbing the flow electrical current due to its non-conductive nature. These beneficial effects are also achieved under high temperatures occurring during ordinary use of the heating device as appreciated. The concentric positioning by way of the second non- conductive holder aids in better distributing the heat to the consumable, which facilitates user experience.

According to a 15th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating element extends into the second non-conductive holder with a section having a length along the longitudinal axis of at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 1.0 mm, more preferably at least 1.6 mm, most preferably at least 2.2 mm and with a length along the longitudinal axis of at most 3.9 mm, preferably at most 3.4 mm, more preferably at most 2.8 mm, most preferably at most 2.2 mm.

In a similar way as set forth above in terms of the first non-conductive holder according to the 4th embodiment, the heating element also extends into the second non- conductive holder. The inventors found that an optimal amount of about 2.2 mm or at least a range of 0.5 mm to 3.4 mm should be envisaged to account for a proper connection and/ or support length of the heating element within the second non- conductive holder and savings of material. This ensures a stable and reliable concentric connection.

According to a 16th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the second non-conductive holder has a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface having a smaller circumference than the first inner circumferential surface, wherein the first inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder engages with the heating element and the second inner circumferential surface engages with the second sleeve to form a substantially sealed connection.

Similar features and advantages as set forth above in the 5th embodiment also apply for the first and second inner circumferential surfaces of the second non-conductive holder. Unlike the first non-conductive holder, the first inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder has a greater circumference than the second circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder. This improves the assembly of the parts.

According to a 17th embodiment, in the preceding embodiment, a distance between an end of the heating element engaging with the first inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder and a closest end of the second inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder is at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 0.15 mm, most preferably at least 0.2 mm along the longitudinal axis and/or at most 0.3 mm, preferably at most 0.25 mm, most preferably at most 0.2 mm along the longitudinal axis.

Similar features and advantages as set forth above for the 6th embodiment also apply to this embodiment. The inventors found that, unlike the first non-conductive holder, the distance between an end of the heating element engaging with the first inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder and a closest end of the second inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder should preferably be 0.2 mm. This compensates best for manufacturing tolerances and material expansion.

According to an 18th embodiment, in any one of the 16th or 17th embodiments, an outer circumference of the heating element is smaller than a circumference of the first inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder and greater than a circumference of the second inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder.

Similar features and advantages as set forth above for the 7th embodiment also apply to this embodiment. It is understood that the first and the second inner circumferential surfaces of the second non-conductive holder are reversed in terms of their circumferences’ lengths as compared to the first non-conductive holder.

According to a 19th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the second non-conductive holder has an outer annular surface that engages with an inner annular surface of the hollow insulator to form a substantially sealed connection between the second non-conductive holder and the hollow insulator.

Similar features and advantages as set forth above in the 8th embodiment also apply to this embodiment. In particular, this improves manufacturing and assembling of the parts. The outer annular surface of the second non-conductive part facilitates receiving the consumable in an intended and/or planned manner, i.e. in a central position. Furthermore, such a receiving maybe achieved in a reproducible manner, which is appreciated by the user. In addition, such receiving may apply to most of the consumable’s length or all of its length that is housed by the heating device when received along the longitudinal axis of the heating device. Thus, concentric positioning is improved, which also improves an even heat distribution to the consumable.

In an example, the heating device comprises a sealing material arranged in proximity of the second non-conductive holder. Preferably the sealing material is a heat resistive silicone as described according to the 9th embodiment. This sealing material may be arranged between an inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder and an outer circumferential surface of the heating element and/or an outer circumferential surface of the second sleeve. Such an arrangement may reduce potential air leakage.

First/second holder materials/properties

According to a 20th embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the first and/or the second non-conductive holder comprise or preferably consists of plastic material, preferably high thermal resistance plastic material, more preferably amber plastic material, wherein a high thermal resistance means that the plastic material has a heat deflection temperature (HDT) of at least 200°C, preferably at least 25O°C, more preferably at least 300°C, most preferably at least 320°C. Optionally, wherein the HDT is measured according to DIN EN ISO 75 or ASTM D648.

According to the above embodiment, plastic material is applied, which facilitates manufacturing of the first and/ or the second non-conductive holder. Furthermore, high thermal resistance plastic materials provide the advantage that they are less susceptible to material expansion due to heat.

The heat deflection temperature or heat distortion temperature (HDT) is a measure of plastics’ or polymer’s resistance to distortion under a given load at elevated temperature. A plastic material maybe a material that comprises one or more polymers. As an example, the HTD of a plastic is the temperature at which a given plastic test bar will be bent by 0.25 mm under a given load. Two common loads may be used in determining the HDT, namely 0.46 MPa (67 psi) or 1.8 MPa (264 psi). A load of 0.46 MPa may typically be applied for softer grades of plastic, e.g. polyethylene. A load of 1.8 MPa may usually be applied for more durable grades of plastic, e.g. PEEK or polycarbonate. Such loads are encompassed by a standard for determining the HDT, namely the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D 648, which may be equivalent to the ISO 75 procedure.

The heat HDT of the applied plastic according to the above embodiment should be at least 200°C. Thus, according to ASTM D 648, the plastic should not bend by more than 0.25 mm under both loads, i.e. a low load of 0.46 MPa (67 psi), and a high load of 1.8 MPa (264 psi) at a temperature of at least 200°C. Most preferably, the HDT is at least 320°C. This improves thermal resistance of the first and/or second non- conductive holder, since they can withstand high temperatures without substantially deforming. Thereby, their properties remain mostly unaltered during ordinary use of the heating device.

As an example, HI TEMP 300-AMB material maybe applied to the first and/or second non-conductive holder. In such an example, the HDT is at least 300°C. Such a material may also be referred to as an ultra-high temperature plastic for use in applications requiring high heat resistance. In addition, it may have an amber (AMB) color, providing for translucency. This is advantageous, since a user may recognize parts that are located within the heating device behind the first and/or second non-conductive holder along the longitudinal axis of the heating device.

Other suitable examples of a material that could be applied to the first and/or second non-conductive holder maybe (3D printed) ceramics. Such a material may work as well. However, in some cases, such a material may have a higher thermal capacity and would dissipate more heat compared to (3D printed) plastic material. Preferably, HI TEMP 300-AMB is applied.

According to a 21st embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the first and/ or the second non-conductive holders are 3D printed, preferably by way of a digital light process thereby using light and a liquid resin.

With this embodiment, the manufacturing process is facilitated and simplified. 3D printing is a mature technology. In particular, it is an additive manufacturing process, meaning it reduces the losses of conventional subtractive manufacturing methods such as milling, turning, cutting, etc. via the careful addition or provision of material. As an example, computer-aided design files maybe converted into physical parts. Thereby, a reliable and fast production of the first and/ or the second non-conductive holder is ensured. Digital light processing (DLP) is a 3D printing technology used to rapidly produce photopolymer parts. Furthermore, DLP may implement liquid thermosetting resins to create parts. During the DLP process, a vat of such liquid resin may be subjected to high-intensity light from a projector, which may selectively cure the resin to a build platform in a layer-by-layer process. DLP printers are highly accurate and can also provide for improved surface finishes. Furthermore, DLP printers are faster and more efficient than other printing technologies, such as stereolithography (SLA) printers.

First/second sleeve materials/properties

According to a 22nd embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the first and/or the second sleeves comprise or preferably consist of stainless steel material.

Stainless steel has the advantage of being tough and/or robust yet lightweight. Furthermore, it is also a hygienic material, as it is easy to clean and to sanitize. Moreover, it is corrosion resistant. Thus, it suits the needs for the application in a heating device according to the present invention.

General features According to a 23rd embodiment, in any one of the preceding embodiments, the heating device is configured such that a consumable comprising non-liquid aerosolforming substrate can be received along the longitudinal axis such that the consumable extends through the first sleeve, the first non-conductive holder, the hollow ceramic heating element and optionally at least partially through the second sleeve and the second non-conductive holder.

With the above arrangement, the consumable, which can be received in the heating device, comprises non-liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The term aerosol-forming substrate is used to describe a substrate capable of releasing, upon heating, volatile compounds, which can form an aerosol. The aerosol generated from the aerosolforming substrates of the consumable may be visible or invisible and may include vapors, e.g. fine particles of substances, which are in a gaseous state, that are typically solid at room temperature. The aerosol generated may also comprise gases and liquid droplets of condensed vapors. The aerosol-forming substrate may substantially be of a non-liquid type. It may not be ruled out that there is a slight portion of liquid within the aerosol-forming substrate; however, it is usually one of a solid form. Such an arrangement may also be referred to as a heated tobacco product. As an example, the consumable may comprise tobacco in leaf or some other solid form.

The consumable may easily be received within the heating device. For instance, whilst being received, it may first enter the first sleeve, then the first non-conductive holder and the hollow ceramic heating element. It may further enter at least partially the second sleeve and the second non-conductive holder. Such an insertion is appreciated by the user and easy to perform.

As an example, the heating device may be substantially cylindrical. Furthermore, also the hollow insulator may be cylindrical. Also consumables being received may have such a shape.

Aerosol-generating device and system A 24th embodiment of the invention is directed to an aerosol-generating device comprising: a heating device according to any one of the 1st to 23rd embodiments; and a power supply configured to provide a current to the hollow ceramic heating element of the heating device for generating an aerosol to be inhaled by a user.

The aerosol-generating device may be a portable or handheld aerosol-generating device that is comfortable for a user to hold. For instance, it may be held between the fingers of a single hand.

A power supply may be any suitable power supply, for example a DC voltage source, such as a battery, e.g. a lithium iron phosphate battery. Alternatively, the power supply maybe a Nickel cadmium battery, a Nickel-metal hydride battery, or a Lithium based battery, for example a Lithium-Cobalt, a Lithium-Iron-Phosphate, Lithium Titanate or a Lithium-Polymer battery. The power supply may be located within a part of the aerosol-generating device, or it may be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. The power supply may allow for recharging and may have a capacity that allows for storing enough energy for one or more, preferably a multitude of ordinary use cycles of the consumable.

According to a 25th embodiment, in the preceding embodiment, the aerosol-generating device is configured such that the hollow ceramic heating element, the first sleeve, the first non-conductive holder , the second sleeve, the second non-conductive holder and/ or the hollow insulator has/have at least partially a temperature of at least 300°C, preferably at least 500°C, more preferably at least 75O°C, even more preferably at least 900°C, most preferably at least iooo°C during use of the aerosol-generating device.

With the above arrangement, the parts of the heating device are substantially heated. Preferably, they are heated to such an extent to allow an aerosol to be generated from the consumable. Further, the parts are not heated more than necessary. Thereby, heating of the housing of the aerosol-generating device is avoided.

A 26th embodiment of the invention is directed to an aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating device according to any one of the 24th or 25th embodiments and a consumable comprising a non-liquid aerosol-forming substrate. According to a 27th embodiment, in the heating device, the first non-conductive holder, preferably an inner surface of the first non-conductive holder, engages with the heating element, preferably by being in direct contact with the heating element.

This may be understood in such a manner that there is substantially no gap in between the inner surface of the first non-conductive holder and the heating element.

According to a 28th embodiment, in the heating device, the first sleeve substantially abuts the heating element, preferably along the longitudinal axis.

According to a 29th embodiment, in the heating device, the first non-conductive holder is electrically non-conductive, and, optionally, the second non-conductive holder (70) is electrically non-conductive.

Brief description of the figures

In the following, preferred embodiments are described, by way of example only. Reference is made to the following accompanying figures:

Fig. 1 illustrates a heating device for use in an aerosol-generating device according to a general embodiment in a side cross sectional view;

Fig. 2 illustrates a heating device for use in an aerosol-generating device according to the general embodiment in an exploded view;

Fig. 3 illustrates a first sleeve and an optional second sleeve as used in a heating device according to the general embodiment in a perspective view;

Fig. 4 illustrates a hollow ceramic heating element as used in a heating device according to the general embodiment in a perspective view;

Fig. 5 illustrates a first non-conductive holder as used in a heating device according to the general embodiment in a first perspective view (left hand side) and a second perspective view (right hand side); Fig. 6 illustrates a second non-conductive holder as used in a heating device according to the general embodiment in a first perspective view (left hand side) and a second perspective view (right hand side);

Fig. 7 illustrates an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating system according to an exemplary embodiment.

Detailed description of the figures

In the following, the invention is described with reference to the accompanying figures in more detail. However, the present invention can also be used with any other embodiments not explicitly disclosed hereafter.

It is noted that, whilst the following embodiments depict the second sleeve as a cup, it is in accordance with the present disclosure that it is a sleeve.

Fig. i shows a heating device io for use in an aerosol-generating device too in a side cross sectional view according to a general embodiment of the invention. The heating device io is configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate of a heat-not-burn consumable 1 (not shown) when received within the heating device to. In this manner, an aerosol comprising tobacco is generated when the consumable i is heated. The aerosol can be inhaled by a user.

The consumable may comprise a non-liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For instance, the substrate may be a substantially solid aerosol-generating substrate, which comprises a material configured to generate an aerosol when heated. For example, the substantially solid aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a tobacco material or a cellulose material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate may contain tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds, which are released upon heating of the substantially solid aerosol-forming substrate. Furthermore, aerosol-generating agents may be added, such as propylene glycol (PG) or vegetable glycerol (VG).

As can be seen, the heating device io has a longitudinal axis, indicated in a dash-dotted line. The longitudinal axis goes in the direction of the largest dimension of the heating device io. The heating device io has a substantially elongate shape, such as a cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the longitudinal axis is parallel to the concentric axis of the elongate shape of the heating device io, e.g. cylindrical shape. However, different shapes of the heating device io are also possible and envisaged by the inventors.

The heating device io comprises a first sleeve 20, which may be arranged at or close to an end of the heating device 10. The first sleeve 20 is configured to receive a consumable. The first sleeve 20 is stable and rigid and maybe of stainless steel. It supports receiving a consumable within the heating device 10. When a consumable is received within the heating device 10, it first enters the first sleeve 20, then the heating element as described below. In Fig. 1 it may enter the first sleeve 20 from the top.

The heating device 10 further comprises a hollow ceramic heating element 30, which is arranged adjacent to the first sleeve 20 along the longitudinal axis of the heating device 10. With reference to Fig. 1, the heating element 30 follows the first sleeve 20 along the longitudinal axis seen from the top to the bottom. During ordinary use of the heating device 10, the ceramic heating element 30 may provide heat to a consumable, which is inserted into the hollow ceramic heating element 30. Thus, heat may be beneficially distributed to the consumable. The ceramic heating element 30 may generate temperatures reaching up to 8oo°C, 900°C, iooo°C or even more.

The heating device 10 also comprises a first non-conductive holder 40. The first non- conductive holder 40 comprises or consists of a non-metallic and/or non-ceramic material. In an example, the first non-conductive holder 40 consists of plastic material, which is of high thermal resistance. For instance, HI TEMP 300-AMB material may be applied to it, which is 3D printed, preferably by way of a digital light process. The first non-conductive holder 40 ensures or improves electrical insulation. To put this into perspective, if electrodes were to come in contact with it, the electrical current would not be diverted. Furthermore, such a first non-conductive holder 40 bears the potential to reduce material expansion compared to, e.g. holders of conductive and/or metal material, which are conventionally applied. Moreover, such conventional materials would consume a large amount of heat, which is generally not intended. In particular, this would adversely affect the heating efficiency. Moreover, the shape of the first non- conductive holder 40 is substantially maintained, e.g. kept the same, during ordinary use of the heating device io. This leads to an improved positioning, even under space limitations, which usually dictate the design of such heating devices io.

The first non-conductive holder 40 houses at least partially the first sleeve 20 and the heating element 30. In this manner, the first non-conductive holder 40 accommodates the first sleeve 20 and the hollow ceramic heating element 30 or engages with both of these parts. This improves concentric positioning within the heating device 10 and along the longitudinal axis of the heating device 10. This facilitates an even heat distribution to the consumable 1, when received within the heating device 10.

Furthermore, the heating device 10 comprises a hollow insulator 50. The hollow insulator 50 houses the first sleeve 20, the hollow ceramic heating element 30 and the first non-conductive holder 40. The hollow insulator 50 is advantageous, as it avoids heat being transferred from the inside of the heating device 10 to its surroundings. In particular, hot parts of the heating device 10 are thermally separated from the remaining parts of the heating device 10 and/or the aerosol-generating device too (not shown). This is appreciated by a user who may touch such remaining parts during ordinary use. Additionally, this improves user experience and acceptance.

In another embodiment, the heating device 10 may further comprise a second sleeve 60 and a second non-conductive holder 70. Such an embodiment is shown in Fig. 1 as a single embodiment together with the general embodiment. However, it is understood that the second sleeve 60 and/or the second non-conductive holder 70 are not necessarily required. The features and advantages mentioned with respect to the first sleeve 20 and the first non-conductive holder 40 also apply in a similar way to the second sleeve 60 and the second non-conductive holder 70.

In a further embodiment, the heating device 10 comprises a sealing material 45, which can be a heat resistive silicone. The sealing material 45 is arranged between an inner circumferential surface 41, 42 of the first non-conductive holder 40 and an outer circumferential surface 31 of the heating element 30 and/or an outer circumferential surface 21 of the first sleeve 20. It may also be possible to provide for such a sealing material in proximity of the second optional non-conductive holder 70. The sealing material 45 improves sealing and can ensure an airtight sealing between the parts. In the embodiment according to Fig. 1, the first non-conductive holder 40 is arranged such that the first sleeve 20 and the heating element 30 are substantially centrally located within the insulator 50 along the longitudinal axis. In particular, their positioning is substantially maintained centrally during use of the heating device 10. This means that the first sleeve 20 and the heating element 30 do not substantially deviate from the longitudinal axis during use of the heating device 10. It is appreciated that the first sleeve 20 and the heating element 30 are not substantially displaced from the longitudinal axis of the heating device 10 during use. In the example of Fig. 1, the first sleeve 20 and the heating element 30 are displaced by less than 3% with respect to a dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, e.g. a radius of the first sleeve 20 and/or the heating element 30. This facilitates an even heat distribution to the consumable, which enhances user experience and increases generation of tobacco particulate matter during the first puffs of the consumable.

Fig. 2 shows a heating device 10 for use in an aerosol-generating device too according to the general embodiment of the invention in an exploded view. In addition to the parts shown in Fig. 1, this figure shows two electrodes 32. The two electrodes 32 provide for electrical contact between the ceramic heating element 30 and a power source, such as a battery (not shown). Such a power source is usually part of an aerosolgenerating device too. However, in some embodiments, it may also be part of the heating device 10. An electrical insulation of the two electrodes 32 is not mandatory, since the first holder 40 and also the second holder 70 are of non-conductive material, e.g. plastic. Thus, electrical current is not diverted, which ensures a reliable operation of the heating device 10.

Fig. 3 shows a first sleeve 20 and an optional second sleeve 60 as used in a heating device 10 (not shown in this figure) according to the general embodiment of the invention in a perspective view. The first sleeve 20 has a wall thickness 22 of at most 1.0 mm, preferably at most 0.5 mm, more preferably at most 0.2 mm, even more preferably at most 0.1 mm, most preferably at most 0.08 mm. Also the second sleeve 60 may have such a wall thickness. The two sleeves may also have a different wall thickness. The second sleeve 60 is located at an opposite side of the hollow ceramic heating element 30 (not shown in this figure) as compared to the first sleeve 20. The second sleeve 6o is not fully hollow, but is depicted as a cup to receive a consumable i. Thereby, the second sleeve 6o has a bottom 61. This advantageously prevents a consumable i from reaching too far into the heating device io.

Fig. 4 shows a hollow ceramic heating element 30 as used in a heating device 10 (not shown in this figure) according to the general embodiment in a perspective view. Two electrodes 32 are attached to the heating element 30, and the two electrodes 32 are provided without electrical insulation. The two electrodes 32 are attached to a lower part of the hollow ceramic heating element 30 and may be connected to a power source. The two electrodes 32 provide for a voltage drop over the heating element 30 to induce a current. In this manner, the temperature of the ceramic heating element maybe increased due to an electrical current and an electrical resistance of the ceramic heating element 30.

The ceramic heating element 30 may be shaped so as to receive a consumable 1 and to ensure that a sufficiently large surface area faces a consumable 1 when received. This enhances heat transfer to the consumable 1.

The heating element 30 has a wall thickness in the range of about 2.0 mm to 0.05 mm. Preferably, the wall thickness is about 0.55 mm.

An outer circumferential surface 31 of the hollow ceramic heating element 30 is also shown. This outer circumferential surface 31 has a circumference which is smaller than the second inner circumferential surface 42 of the first non-conductive holder 40 and greater than the first inner circumferential surface 41 of the first non-conductive holder 40 (not shown in this figure). Furthermore, the circumference of the outer circumferential surface 31 is also smaller than the first inner circumferential surface 71 of the second non-conductive holder 70 and greater than the second inner circumferential surface 72 of the second non-conductive holder 70 (not shown in this figure). This arrangement facilitates manufacturing and assembling of the parts of the heating device 10. Another advantage is that the positioning of the heating element 30 is improved. As an example, the connection and/or support between the heating element 30 and the first non-conductive holder 20 and/ or the second non-conductive holder 70 is improved. This maybe the case because the heating element 30 can also be supported at least partially at its front faces 33, 34, which are facing parts of the first and/or second non-conductive holder.

Fig. 5 shows a first non-conductive holder 40 as used in a heating device 10 according to the general embodiment in a first perspective view (left hand side) and a second perspective view (right hand side). The first non-conductive holder 40 is hollow, such that other parts may be fully received through it.

Furthermore, the first non-conductive holder 40 has a first inner circumferential surface 41 and a second inner circumferential surface 42 having a greater circumference than the first circumferential surface 41. When the heating device 10 is assembled, the first inner circumferential surface 41 engages with the first sleeve 20 (not shown in this figure) and the second inner circumferential surface 42 engages with the heating element 30. This provides the advantage that a substantially sealed connection between the parts can be formed.

The first non-conductive holder 40 also has an outer annular surface 43. When the heating device 10 is assembled, this outer annular surface 43 engages with an inner annular surface of the hollow insulator 50 (not shown in this figure) to form a substantially sealed connection between the first non-conductive holder 40 and the hollow insulator 50. The outer annular surface 43 of the first non-conductive holder 40 is substantially circular, which promotes a concentric positioning of the individual parts. In addition, air leakage between the insulator 50 and the first non-conductive holder 40 can be substantially prevented. The material of the first non-conductive holder 40 consists of plastic material. The heat deflection temperature (HDT) of this material is at least 300°C. As an example, HI TEMP 300-AMB material maybe applied to the first non-conductive holder 40. This is advantageous in terms of manufacturing and concentric positioning of the individual parts of the heating device 10. Thereby, also a concentric positioning of a consumable 1 is improved when received within the heating device 10. Using conventional connection parts, e.g. metal parts, such a concentric connection is difficult to achieve, since the conventional connection parts are subject to higher material expansion when heated. Fig. 6 shows a second non-conductive holder 70 as used in a heating device 10 (not shown in this figure) according to the general embodiment in a first perspective view (left hand side) and a second perspective view (right hand side). The second non- conductive holder 70 has a similar material composition as the first non-conductive holder 40 (not shown in this figure). The second non-conductive holder 70 is not completely hollow. As shown, the second non-conductive holder 70 has a bottom 74. This may be advantageous to support the second sleeve 60 (not shown in this figure) to a greater extent, when the device 10 is assembled.

Furthermore, the second non-conductive holder 70 has a first inner circumferential surface 71 and a second inner circumferential surface 72 having a smaller circumference than the first inner circumferential surface 71. When the heating device 10 is assembled, the first inner circumferential surface 71 of the second non-conductive holder 70 engages with the heating element 30, and the second inner circumferential surface 72 engages with the second sleeve 60 to form a substantially sealed connection. The second non-conductive holder 70 also has an outer annular surface 73 that engages with an inner annular surface of the hollow insulator 50 to form a substantially sealed connection.

The second non-conductive holder 70 may also have slots 75. The slots 75 maybe provided to encompass or house electrodes 32 that pass from the heating element 30 to a power source.

Fig. 7 shows an aerosol-generating device too and an aerosol-generating system 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 200 comprises an aerosolgenerating device too, which comprises a power supply 101. The system 200 further comprises a consumable 1. The aerosol-generating device too comprises a heating device 10, which can be the one of the general embodiment described above. The power supply 101 is configured to provide a current to the hollow ceramic heating element of the heating device 10 for generating an aerosol from the consumable 1 to be inhaled by a user. The consumable 1 is a heat-not-burn consumable and comprises non-liquid aerosol-forming substrate. In all of the above embodiments, a heating device is provided with an improved concentric positioning of the individual parts as well as of the consumable received. Furthermore, material expansion is reduced and/or an improved compensation for material expansion is provided for. Moreover, improved electrical insulation and improved temperature resistance is established. In addition, manufacturing and assembling of the heating device and/or its individual parts is/are facilitated and the susceptibility to errors is significantly reduced.

List of reference signs i consumable io heating device

20 first sleeve

21 outer circumferential surface of the first sleeve

22 wall thickness of the first sleeve

30 hollow ceramic heating element

31 outer circumferential surface of the hollow ceramic heating element

32 electrodes

33? 34 front faces of hollow ceramic heating element

40 first non-conductive holder

41 first inner circumferential surface of the first non-conductive holder

42 second inner circumferential surface of the first non-conductive holder

43 outer annular surface of the first non-conductive holder

45 sealing material

50 insulator

60 second sleeve (preferably a cup)

61 bottom of the second sleeve

70 second non-conductive holder 71 first inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder

72 second inner circumferential surface of the second non-conductive holder

73 outer annular surface of the second non-conductive holder

74 bottom of the second non-conductive holder

75 slots

100 aerosol-generating device

101 power supply

200 aerosol-generating system

Claims

Claims A heating device (10) for use in an aerosol-generating device (too) and configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate of a heat-not-burn consumable (i) when received within the heating device (to), the heating device (to) having a longitudinal axis and comprising: a first sleeve (20); a hollow ceramic heating element (30), arranged adjacent to the first sleeve (20) along the longitudinal axis; a first non-conductive holder (40), preferably of a non-metallic and/or non-ceramic material, housing at least partially the first sleeve (20) and the heating element (30); optionally a second sleeve (60); optionally a second non-conductive holder (70); and a hollow insulator (50), housing the first sleeve (20), the hollow ceramic heating element (30), the first non-conductive holder (40), the second sleeve (60) and the second non-conductive holder (70). The heating device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first non- conductive holder (40) is arranged such that the first sleeve (20) and the heating element (30) are maintained substantially centrally within the insulator (50) along the longitudinal axis during use of the heating device (10). The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating element (30) extends at least partially into the first non-conductive holder (40), and the first sleeve (20) extends at least partially into the first non- conductive holder (40), preferably from an opposite side as compared to the heating element (30). The heating device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the heating element (30) extends into the first non-conductive holder (40) with a section having a length along the longitudinal axis of at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 0.8 mm, more preferably at least 1.2 mm, most preferably at least 1.7 mm and/or of at most 3.0 mm, preferably at most 2.6 mm, more preferably at most 2.2 mm, most preferably at most 1.7 mm. The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first non-conductive holder (40) is hollow or has a hollow section and has a first inner circumferential surface (41) and a second inner circumferential surface (42) having a greater circumference than the first circumferential surface, wherein the first inner circumferential surface (41) engages with the first sleeve (20) and the second inner circumferential surface (42) engages with the heating element (30) to form a substantially sealed connection. The heating device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein a distance between an end of the heating element (30) engaging with the second inner circumferential surface (42) and a closest end of the first inner circumferential surface (41) is at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 0.2 mm, most preferably at least 0.3 mm along the longitudinal axis and/or at most 0.5 mm, preferably at most 0.4 mm, most preferably at most 0.3 mm along the longitudinal axis. The heating device (10) according to any one of the claims 5 or 6, wherein an outer circumference of the heating element (30) is smaller than a circumference of the second inner circumferential surface (42) and greater than a circumference of the first inner circumferential surface (41). The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first non-conductive holder (40) has an outer annular surface (43) that engages with an inner annular surface of the hollow insulator (50) to form a substantially sealed connection between the first non-conductive holder (40) and the hollow insulator (50). The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first sleeve (20) has a wall thickness of at most 1.0 mm, preferably at most

0.5 mm, more preferably at most 0.2 mm, even more preferably at most 0.1 mm, most preferably at most 0.08 mm. The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein two electrodes (32) are attached to the heating element (30), wherein the two electrodes (32) are provided without electrical insulation. The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second sleeve (60) is arranged adjacent to the heating element (30) along the longitudinal axis and has a wall thickness of at most 1.0 mm, preferably at most 0.5 mm, more preferably at most 0.2 mm, even more preferably at most 0.1 mm, most preferably at most 0.08 mm; the second non-conductive holder (70), is preferably of a non-metallic and/or non-ceramic material, and houses the second sleeve (60) and at least partially the heating element (30); and/or the second non-conductive holder (70) is arranged such that the second sleeve (60) and the heating element (30) are maintained substantially centrally within the insulator (50) along the longitudinal axis during use of the heating device (10). The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second non-conductive holder (70) has a first inner circumferential surface (71) and a second inner circumferential surface (72) having a smaller circumference than the first inner circumferential surface (71), wherein the first inner circumferential surface (71) of the second non-conductive holder (70) engages with the heating element (30) and the second inner circumferential surface (72) engages with the second sleeve (60) to form a substantially sealed connection. The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and/or the second non-conductive holder (70) comprise or preferably consists of plastic material, preferably high thermal resistance plastic material, more preferably amber plastic material, wherein a high thermal resistance means that the plastic material has a heat deflection temperature (HDT) of at least 200°C, preferably at least 25O°C, more preferably at least 3OO°C, most preferably at least 32O°C. The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second sleeve (60) is a cup (60). The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first non-conductive holder (40) is electrically non-conductive, and, optionally, the second non-conductive holder (70) is electrically non-conductive. The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first non-conductive holder (40), preferably an inner surface of the first non- conductive holder (40), engages with the heating element (30), preferably by being in direct contact with the heating element (30). The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first sleeve (20) substantially abuts the heating element (30), preferably along the longitudinal axis. The heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first non-conductive holder (40) is electrically non-conductive, and, optionally, the second non-conductive holder (70) is electrically non-conductive. An aerosol-generating device (too) comprising: a heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims; and a power supply configured to provide a current to the hollow ceramic heating element (30) of the heating device (10) for generating an aerosol to be inhaled by a user. An aerosol-generating system (2) comprising the aerosol-generating device (too) according to the preceding claim and a consumable (1) comprising a nonliquid aerosol-forming substrate.