Aerosol-generating device with cartridge release system

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device comprising: an aerosol-generating element comprising a body and a receptacle for receiving a cartridge comprising aerosol-forming substrate; a container having a liquid level and defining a headspace outlet above the liquid level; a conduit for conveying an airflow from the receptacle to the container; and a cap engageable with the body. The cap comprises: a frame comprising a cavity and having a central axis, wherein the cavity is arranged for receiving the cartridge; and a gripping member configured to releasably grip the cartridge received in the receptacle. The cartridge can be released from the gripping member using a release mechanism. The release mechanism can be part of a cartridge handling system.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to aerosol-generating devices and systems for grasping and releasing cartridges containing aerosol-forming substrate for use in aerosol-generating devices. The present disclosure also relates to systems for removing and discarding cartridges for use in aerosol-generating devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to grasping and releasing systems that can be used to remove and discard cartridges for use in hookah devices. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional hookah devices are used to smoke and are configured such that vapors and smoke pass through a water pool before being inhaled by a consumer. Hookah devices can include one outlet or more than one outlet such that the device can be used by more than one consumer at a time. Many people view the use of hookah devices as a leisure activity and a social experience.

[0003] Generally, conventional hookah is used in combination with a substrate, sometimes referred to in the art as hookah tobacco, tobacco molasses, or simply molasses. Conventional hookah substrates have a relatively high sugar content (in some cases, up to -50%, while conventional tobacco substrates (e.g., combustible cigarettes) typically have -20%). The tobacco used in hookah devices can be mixed with other ingredients to, for example, increase the volume of vapors and smoke produced, change the taste, or both.

[0004] Conventional hookah devices employ charcoal (such as charcoal pellets) to heat and sometimes burn the tobacco substrate to generate aerosol for inhalation by a user. The use of charcoal to heat the tobacco can result in complete or partial combustion of the tobacco or other ingredients. Additionally, the charcoal can generate harmful or potentially harmful products, such as carbon monoxide, which can mix with the hookah vapors and pass through the water pool to the outlet.

[0005] One method of reducing carbon monoxide and combustion byproduct production is to employ e-liquid instead of tobacco. Hookah devices that employ e-liquid eliminate combustion byproducts, but deprive hookah consumers of the traditional tobacco-based experience.

[0006] Other hookah devices have been proposed that employ an electric heater to heat, but not burn, the tobacco. Such electrically heated heat-not-burn hookah devices heat the tobacco substrate to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the substrate without combusting the substrate, and thus reduce or eliminate byproducts associated with tobacco combustion.

[0007] Hookah devices can employ cartridges for containing aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridges can be filled with such aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can include tobacco, preferably a hookah substrate such as molasses - a mixture of tobacco, water, sugar, and other components (e.g., glycerol, flavorings, etc.). The heating system of an electrically heated hookah device heats the contents of the cartridge to generate an aerosol that is delivered to the user through an airflow path.

[0008] To facilitate airflow through the cartridge and flow of aerosol from the cartridge, a hookah cartridge can have one or more holes through one or more walls. Prior art cartridges typically have one or more openings in at least one wall of the cartridge, such as in one or both of the top and bottom walls. During storage, at least some of the holes or openings in the top and bottom walls can be closed by a removable (e.g., peelable) seal layer, such as a film, sticker, or liner. The removable layer can protect the contents (e.g., honey) from exposure to air and oxygen. The removable layer can be removed (e.g., pulled or peeled) by the user prior to first use of the cartridge.

[0009] After use of the hookah device, the cartridge can be removed and discarded. However, the cartridge can still contain material, such as used aerosol-forming substrate. If the cartridge has not had time to cool, the cartridge can still be hot. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a system for removing and discarding a cartridge is provided. SUMMARY

[0010] It is desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol-generating device. It is desirable to provide a system for discarding a cartridge used in an aerosol-generating device. It is desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol-generating device that can be incorporated as part of the aerosol-generating device. It is desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol-generating device that is convenient and easy to use. It is desirable to provide a system for discarding a used cartridge that is convenient and easy to use. It is desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol-generating device that does not require the user to directly handle the cartridge. It is desirable to provide a system for discarding a used cartridge that does not require the user to directly handle the cartridge.

[0011] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a system is provided that can be used to grasp and release a cartridge in an aerosol-generating device. According to embodiments, the system can be used to remove a cartridge from an aerosol-generating device. According to embodiments, the system can be used to discard a cartridge. For example, the system can be used with a hookah device. The system can be used to grasp a hookah cartridge. The system can be used to remove a hookah cartridge from a hookah device. The system can be used to release a hookah cartridge. The system can be used to discard a hookah cartridge. The system can be used to discard a hookah cartridge into a disposal container.

[0012] The system for grasping and releasing a cartridge can be referred to as an extractor. The extractor can be part of a cap used with an aerosol-generating device. The cap can be incorporated as part of a hookah device.

[0013] The system for grasping and releasing a cartridge can include a cap mountable on an aerosol-generating device. The cap includes a body having a cavity for receiving a cartridge and a grasping member. The grasping member is configured to grasp and release the cartridge.

[0014] Systems for gripping and releasing a cartridge can operate by inserting a cartridge into an aerosol-generating device. A cover can be placed on the device (e.g., on a receptacle for aerosol-generating elements), and the cover can be pressed down so that a gripping member engages the cartridge. The gripping member can grip the cartridge. The aerosol-generating device can be a hookah device, and the cartridge can be a hookah cartridge.

[0015] Systems of the present disclosure can provide various advantages. Some advantages include that systems for gripping and releasing a cartridge are convenient, easy, and safe to use. A user can remove a used cartridge without having to directly handle the cartridge, thereby avoiding direct contact with a hot object. The cartridge can be discarded without having to directly handle the cartridge, thereby reducing the likelihood of leaks and other messes.

[0016] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, an extractor for removing a cartridge from an aerosol-generating device is provided. The extractor can include a cavity arranged for receiving a cartridge. The extractor can include a gripping member configured to releasably grip a cartridge received in the cavity. The extractor can engage with the aerosol-generating device. The extractor can be provided as part of a cover. The extractor can include one or more piercing elements for piercing a cartridge. The extractor can be provided as part of the aerosol-generating device.

[0017] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a cover including an extractor is provided. The cover can include a cavity arranged for receiving a cartridge. The extractor can include a gripping member configured to releasably grip a cartridge received in the cavity. The extractor can be housed within the cavity of the cover. The extractor can be configured to remove a cartridge from an aerosol-generating device. The cover can engage with the aerosol-generating device. The cover can include one or more piercing elements for piercing a cartridge. The cover and the extractor can be provided as part of the aerosol-generating device.

[0018] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating device can include an aerosol-generating element having a body and a receptacle for receiving a cartridge including an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device can include a container having a liquid level and defining a headspace outlet above the liquid level, and a conduit for conveying an airflow from the receptacle to the container. The aerosol-generating device can include an extractor. The extractor can form part of a cover. The cover can engage with the body of the aerosol-generating element. The cover can include a frame having a cavity and a central axis, wherein the cavity is arranged for receiving a cartridge. The cover can include a gripping member. The gripping member can be configured to releasably grip a cartridge received in the receptacle.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating device includes an aerosol-generating element having a body and a receptacle for receiving a cartridge including an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device includes a container having a liquid level and defining a headspace outlet above the liquid level, and a conduit for conveying an airflow from the receptacle to the container. The aerosol-generating device includes an extractor. The extractor forms part of a cap. The cap is engageable with the body of the aerosol-generating element. The cap includes a frame having a cavity and a central axis, wherein the cavity is arranged for receiving the cartridge. The cap includes a gripping member configured to releasably grip the cartridge received in the receptacle. The gripping member can include one or more spring fingers. The gripping member can include a ring member and one or more spring fingers extending from the ring member. According to embodiments, the aerosol-generating system can include the aerosol-generating device and a cartridge handling device including a handling container having an opening, and a cartridge release member. The cartridge release member can be configured to cooperate with the gripping member of the cap to actuate release of the cartridge.

[0020] The one or more spring fingers can extend axially towards a closed end of the cavity. The one or more spring fingers extend radially inwardly from the ring member towards the central axis.

[0021] The cap can include an outer shroud. The cap can include an inner shroud disposed within the outer shroud, wherein the inner shroud forms the cavity. The gripping member can be at least partially disposed within the cavity of the inner shroud. The inner shroud can be axially movable within the outer shroud. The cap can further include a spring element. The spring element can bias the inner shroud axially away from the outer shroud. One of the inner shroud and the outer shroud can include one or more guide rails, and the other of the inner shroud and the outer shroud can include one or more rail pins configured to cooperate with the one or more guide rails.

[0022] The cap has an operational position. The operational position can be a position in which the gripping member grips the cartridge received in the receptacle. The cap has a cap release position. The release position can be a position in which the cartridge can be released from the gripping member. The cap can have an intermediate position. In some embodiments, the cap is configured such that in the intermediate position, the cartridge is gripped by the gripping member even if the cap is disengaged from the body.

[0023] An aerosol-generating system can include an aerosol-generating device and a cartridge handling device including a handling container having an opening. The system can include a cartridge release member configured to cooperate with a grip member of the cap to actuate release of the cartridge. The cartridge release member can include a pressure ring at the opening of the handling container configured to flex one or more spring fingers. A diameter of the pressure ring can be less than a diameter of a ring member of the grip member but greater than a diameter of the cartridge. The cartridge release member can include a rim of the handling container.

[0024] A method of using an aerosol-generating device can include inserting a cartridge into a receptacle of an aerosol-generating element and placing a cap at the aerosol-generating element such that the cartridge is gripped by a grip member. The cap can be urged toward the receptacle to release the cap from the aerosol-generating element. The cap and cartridge can be removed from the aerosol-generating element. The grip member can be brought into contact with a cartridge release member such that the cartridge is released from the grip member.

[0025] The cartridge release member can include a rim of the handling container. A diameter of the rim can be less than a diameter of a ring member of the grip member but greater than a diameter of the cartridge. Bringing the grip member into contact with the cartridge release member can include engaging the rim of the cartridge handling device between the cartridge and the ring member of the grip member to flex one or more spring fingers, thereby releasing the cartridge from the grip member.

[0026] The one or more spring fingers can exhibit a bias, and the cap can include a release mechanism configured to counteract the bias, thereby releasing the cartridge. A method of using an aerosol-generating device can include gripping the cartridge by a grip member, wherein the one or more spring fingers exhibit a bias toward the cartridge; and actuating a release mechanism to counteract the bias, thereby releasing the cartridge.

[0027] The term "aerosol" as used herein refers to a suspension of solid particles or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. The gas can be air. The solid particles or liquid droplets can comprise one or more volatile flavor compounds. The aerosol can be visible or invisible. The aerosol can include a vapor of a substance that is typically a liquid or a solid at room temperature. The aerosol can include a vapor of a substance that is typically a liquid or a solid at room temperature, and solid particles or liquid droplets or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets. In some embodiments, the aerosol comprises nicotine.

[0028] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming substrate" refers to a material that is capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol forming substrate can be heated to volatilize one or more components of the aerosol forming substrate to form an aerosol. As an alternative to heating or combustion, in some cases, the volatile compounds can be released by a chemical reaction or by a mechanical stimulus, such as ultrasonic waves. The aerosol forming substrate can be disposed in the interior of the cartridge. The aerosol forming substrate can be a solid or a liquid, or can include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming substrate can be adsorbed, coated, impregnated, or otherwise loaded onto a carrier or support. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise nicotine. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise plant-based material. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise tobacco. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol forming substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol forming substrate can comprise tobacco-free material. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise homogenized plant-based material. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise homogenized tobacco material. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise at least one aerosol former. The aerosol forming substrate can comprise other additives and ingredients, such as flavorants.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "integral" and "integrally formed" describe elements that are formed in one piece (a single integral piece). Integral or integrally formed components can be configured such that they cannot be removed from one another without causing structural damage to the piece.

[0030] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" also encompass embodiments with plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0031] As used herein, "or" is generally employed in its sense of "one or the other or both" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] The term "about" is used herein in connection with a value to include normal variations in measurement as expected by persons of skill in the art, and is understood to have the same meaning as "approximately." The term "about" is understood to encompass a typical error range. A typical error range can be, for example, ±5% of the stated value.

[0033] As used herein, "have," "having," "contain," "containing," "include," "including," and the like are used in their open-ended sense, and generally mean "including, but not limited to." It will be understood that "consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like are subsumed in "comprising," and the like.

[0034] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that can provide certain benefits under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments can also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Additionally, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims.

[0035] The term "substantially" as used herein can be understood to modify the term that it precedes, such that the unmodified term is less than or equal to 10%, less than or equal to 5%, or less than or equal to 2% of the modified term. The term "substantially" as used herein can be understood to have the opposite meaning of "substantially," i.e., the modified term is greater than or equal to 10%, greater than or equal to 5%, or greater than or equal to 2% of the unmodified term.

[0036] Any directions mentioned herein, such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," and other directions or orientations described for clarity and brevity are not intended to limit the actual device or system to a particular orientation. The devices and systems described herein can be used in multiple directions and orientations.

[0037] An aerosol-generating device can include an aerosol-generating element having a body and a receptacle for receiving a cartridge including aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device can include a container having a liquid level and defining a headspace outlet above the liquid level, and a conduit for conveying an airflow from the receptacle to the container. The aerosol-generating device can include a cap engageable with the body. The cap can include a frame having a cavity and a central axis. The cavity can be arranged for receiving the cartridge. The cap can include a gripping member configured to releasably grip the cartridge received in the receptacle. The gripping member can include one or more spring fingers. The gripping member can include a ring member and one or more spring fingers extending from the ring member. The gripping member can be engaged with a release mechanism to release the cartridge.

[0038] An aerosol-generating device can be a hookah device. The hookah device can include an aerosol-generating element having a body and a receptacle for receiving a hookah cartridge including aerosol-forming substrate. The hookah device can include a container having a liquid level and defining a headspace outlet above the liquid level, and a conduit for conveying an airflow from the receptacle to the container. The hookah device can include a cap engageable with the body. The cap can include a frame having a cavity and a central axis. The cavity can be arranged for receiving the hookah cartridge. The cap can include a gripping member configured to releasably grip the cartridge received in the receptacle. The gripping member can include one or more spring fingers. The gripping member can include a ring member and one or more spring fingers extending from the ring member. The gripping member can be engaged with a release mechanism to release the hookah cartridge.

[0039] The cap can include a frame including a cavity and having a central axis. The cavity can be arranged to receive a cartridge. The cap can optionally include a piercing assembly disposed within the cavity and configured to pierce a wall of a cartridge. The cap can include an extractor. The extractor can include a gripping member configured to releasably grip a cartridge received in the receptacle. The cap can advantageously be used to grip a cartridge and remove the cartridge from the receptacle. This allows a user to remove a cartridge without having to directly touch a used cartridge. The cap having a gripping member can be used with a disposal container. This allows a user to discard a cartridge without having to directly touch a used cartridge. The devices and systems of the present disclosure can help avoid direct contact with a hot cartridge. The devices and systems of the present disclosure can also help prevent leaks and mess from opening a cartridge.

[0040] The cap can include an outer frame. The outer frame can have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, the outer frame is formed by a cylindrical outer wall extending between a first end wall and an open second end. The first end wall can be a top wall. The outer frame can be open at the bottom. The outer frame can define a cavity for housing a gripping member. The cap and the gripping member can define a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis can be a central axis. The longitudinal axis can be coaxial with the hollow tube of the stem tube.

[0041] According to embodiments, the cap includes a gripping member configured to grip a cartridge. The gripping member can include a ring member and one or more gripping fingers extending from the ring member. The one or more gripping fingers can be configured to abut against a flange of a cartridge. For example, when a cartridge is received in the receptacle and the cap is placed over the cartridge, the one or more gripping fingers can be configured to abut against a flange of the cartridge.

[0042] The one or more gripping fingers can include spring fingers. The one or more gripping fingers extend from the ring member to an upper end of the gripping fingers. The number of gripping fingers can be 1 or more, 2 or more, 3 or more, or 4 or more. The number of gripping fingers can be 12 or less, 10 or less, 8 or less, 6 or less, or 4 or less. In one embodiment, the gripping member has 2 to 5 gripping fingers. In one embodiment, the gripping member has 3 gripping fingers. In some embodiments where the gripping member includes a plurality of gripping fingers, the gripping fingers can be equally spaced apart from each other about the ring member.

[0043] According to embodiments, the cap includes an outer shroud defining a cavity. The outer shroud can include a cylindrical outer wall extending between a first end wall and an open second end. The outer shroud can define a cavity for housing an inner shroud.

[0044] According to embodiments, the cap includes an inner shroud. The inner shroud can be configured to fit at least partially within the cavity of the outer shroud. The inner shroud can have an outer wall including a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion can be cylindrical elements having different diameters. The first portion can be a cylindrical wall having a first diameter and the second portion can be a cylindrical wall having a second diameter. The second diameter can be greater than the first diameter. The second portion can be coaxial with and below the first portion such that a shoulder is formed at the transition between the first portion and the second portion. The shoulder can support a compression spring. The compression spring can fit around the first portion. The compression spring can extend from the shoulder to the first end wall of the outer shroud.

[0045] The outer wall of the inner shroud can extend between the first end wall and the open second end. The inner shroud can define a cavity for receiving the cartridge and for housing the gripping member.

[0046] The gripping member can be disposed inside the cavity of the cap. In some embodiments, the gripping member is positioned within the inner shroud. The gripping member can be oriented with one or more gripping fingers pointing upward from the ring member. The one or more gripping fingers can be angled radially inward toward the longitudinal (central) axis. The ring member can encircle the cartridge body when the cartridge is received in the inner shroud. The one or more gripping fingers can be configured such that the end of the gripping fingers abuts the upper flange of the cartridge. The one or more gripping fingers can have a length that is less than the height of the cartridge. The inner diameter of the ring member can be greater than the maximum diameter of the cartridge. When the cap is removed from the aerosol-generating device, the cap is removed (e.g., lifted) with the cartridge due to the gripping fingers abutting the flange, and thus, the cartridge is prevented from falling out of the cavity.

[0047] The cap can optionally include a piercing assembly (e.g., a top piercing assembly). The cap can include an outer shroud and a piercing element on an inner wall of the outer shroud. The piercing element can extend axially downward inside the cavity of the outer shroud. The piercing element can be oriented toward a cartridge placed within a receptacle of a hookah device. The piercing element can be integral with the outer shroud or can be attached to the interior of the first end wall of the outer shroud.

[0048] The inner shroud can have an opening at its first end wall. The opening can be configured to receive the piercing element. The opening can also include one or more recesses or channels for facilitating airflow through the first end wall of the inner shroud when the piercing element is received in the opening.

[0049] The cap can include an outer frame. The outer frame can include a protrusion extending from the interior of the first end wall into the cavity of the outer frame. The protrusion can be configured for pressing the outer shroud. The protrusion can be used to leave a gap between the cap outer frame and the outer shroud.

[0050] The top piercing element can have any suitable shape for piercing the wall of the cartridge. For example, the top piercing element can include one or more piercing edges or piercing points. The piercing edges or piercing points are configured to pierce the wall (e.g., the top wall) of the cartridge. The number of piercing points or edges is not particularly limited. The piercing element can have only a single piercing point or edge. The piercing element can have multiple piercing points or edges. For example, the piercing element can have 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, 5 or more, 6 or more, or 8 or more piercing points or edges. The piercing element can have 20 or fewer, 15 or fewer, 12 or fewer, 10 or fewer, or 8 or fewer piercing points or edges. In one embodiment, the shape of the piercing element resembles an inverted crown having a plurality of piercing points extending downward. The inverted crown can have 4 to 10 or 6 to 8 piercing points or edges.

[0051] The outer shroud and the inner shroud can include a track and pin system to guide movement of the outer shroud and the inner shroud relative to each other. The outer shroud can be vertically, horizontally, or both vertically and horizontally movable. The inner shroud can be vertically, horizontally, or both vertically and horizontally movable. In one embodiment, the inner shroud defines a track and the outer shroud includes one or more pins. Alternatively, the track can be defined in the outer shroud and the one or more pins can be located on the inner shroud. In one embodiment, the outer shroud includes one or more pins extending radially inward from a cylindrical outer wall thereof. The inner shroud can include one or more tracks corresponding to the one or more pins. The one or more tracks can be provided on a second (lower) portion of the inner shroud. The one or more tracks can define a plurality of positions of the outer shroud. For example, the one or more tracks can define a first position that is a rest position, a second position that is a piercing position, and a third position that is a use position. When the outer shroud is in the second position, a compression spring biases the outer shroud upward. The one or more tracks can also define a fourth position that is a release position of the cap. The release position can be used to release the cap from the aerosol-generating device. When the outer shroud is in the fourth position, the compression spring biases the outer shroud upward. When the compression spring biases the outer shroud upward, it also biases the cap outer frame upward.

[0052] The outer shroud can be pressed downward (e.g., by a user pressing on the cap outer frame) from a first position to a second position. Upon entering the second position, the piercing element engages and pierces the cartridge. When pressure is released from the outer shroud, the compression spring returns the outer shroud upward to a third position. In the third position, the airflow path is opened through the opening formed in the cartridge. The airflow path can be opened between the exterior of the aerosol-generating device (e.g., a hookah device) and the container. A user can use the aerosol-generating device by drawing on the mouthpiece. To release and remove the cap, the user can press on the outer shroud again (e.g., by pressing on the cap outer frame), causing the outer shroud to move to a fourth position. The compression spring returns the outer shroud from the fourth position to the initial first position (rest position). In this position, the top of the cap can extend above the top edge of the aerosol-generating element and can be grasped by the user. The cartridge can remain grasped by the grasping member in at least some of the positions as the cap outer frame and outer shroud move between the various positions. The cartridge remains grasped by the grasping member at least in the cap release position, where the cap can be released from the aerosol-generating device.

[0053] The bottom of the cap outer frame can be attached to a support plate. The support plate can be configured to hold various parts (e.g., the grasping member, the outer shroud, and the inner shroud) inside the cavity of the outer frame. The support plate can be a substantially circular plate with a central hole extending through the plate. The hole can be sized to accommodate the cartridge. The hole can also be sized to accept a receptacle that can accommodate the cartridge. The hole can have an angled inner edge that tapers inward on its upper side. The angled inner edge can help the cap engage with the aerosol-generating element and receive the cartridge in the cap. The support plate can be attached in any suitable manner, such as by an adhesive or by a coupling element, such as a screw, a clamp, a threaded coupling, a snap fit, or a friction fit.

[0054] The various parts of the cap and the grasping member can be made of any suitable material. Suitable materials include plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, and combinations thereof. Different parts of the system can be made of different materials. For example, some parts, such as the outer shroud and the inner shroud, can be made of plastic, while other parts, such as the spring, can be made of metal. Other combinations are possible. The grasping member is preferably made of a material that can flex. For example, the grasping member can be made of metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.

[0055] The hookah device can also optionally include a piercing assembly (e.g., a bottom piercing assembly). The bottom piercing assembly can be disposed at the upper end of the stem tube, below the cartridge. The bottom piercing assembly can extend into the receptacle from the base of the receptacle in a direction away from the base (e.g., upward). When the cap is pressed downward, the cartridge can also press against the bottom piercing assembly. The cap can be pierced by both piercing assemblies. The piercing assemblies can pierce the top wall and the bottom wall of the cartridge.

[0056] The cylinder can be released from the gripping member using a release mechanism. The release mechanism may be part of a disposal system. The disposal system may include a cylinder release member. The cylinder release member may be configured to radially flex outwards from the gripping fingers. The cylinder release member may be configured to push the gripping fingers outwards to release the cylinder. In some embodiments, the cylinder disposal device includes a disposal container with an opening. The cylinder release member may be located at the opening. The cylinder release member may be a pressure ring. In some embodiments, the cylinder release member includes an edge or opening of the disposal container.

[0057] The diameter of the cylinder release member (e.g., pressure ring or edge) may be smaller than the diameter of the ring member of the gripping member. The diameter of the cylinder release member (e.g., pressure ring or edge) may be larger than the maximum diameter of the cylinder. Contacting the gripping member with the cylinder release member may include inserting an edge of the cylinder disposal device between the cylinder and the ring member of the gripping member to flex one or more gripping fingers, thereby releasing the cylinder from the gripping member.

[0058] In some implementations, the release mechanism is part of the cover. The release mechanism can be actuated to release the cylinder from the gripping member.

[0059] The cylinder may include any suitable body defining the cavity. An aerosol forming substrate may be disposed within the cavity of the cylinder. The body is preferably formed of one or more heat-resistant materials, such as heat-resistant metals or polymers. The body may include a thermally conductive material. For example, the body may include any of the following: aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, any alloys thereof, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the body comprises aluminum.

[0060] The tube can be any suitable shape. For example, the tube can have a shape configured to be received by a hookah device. The tube can have a generally cubic, cylindrical, truncated conical, or any other suitable shape. Preferably, the tube has a generally cylindrical or truncated conical shape.

[0061] Aerosol generating devices (e.g., hookah devices) are configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate within a cylinder. The device can be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate within the cylinder via conduction. The shape and dimensions of the cylinder are preferably designed to allow contact with the heating element of the hookah device, or to minimize the distance between the cylinder and the heating element, to provide efficient heat transfer from the heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate within the cylinder. Heat can be generated by any suitable mechanism, such as resistance heating or induction. To aid inductive heating, the cylinder can be provided with a sensor. For example, the cylinder body can be made of or comprise a material capable of serving as a sensor (e.g., aluminum), or the sensor material can be disposed within the cavity of the cylinder. The sensor material can be disposed within the cavity of the cylinder in any form, such as powder, solid block, fragments, etc.

[0062] Any suitable aerosol-forming substrate can be provided in the cavity defined by the main body of the cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds. The aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a substrate capable of releasing compounds that can form an aerosol. Volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Volatile compounds can be released by a chemical reaction or by a mechanical stimulus, such as ultrasound. The aerosol-forming substrate can be a solid or a liquid, or can comprise solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate can be adsorbed, coated, impregnated or otherwise loaded onto a carrier or support.

[0063] The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise nicotine. The nicotine-containing aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a nicotine salt base. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a plant substrate material. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco. Preferably, the tobacco-containing material comprises volatile tobacco flavour compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise homogenised tobacco material. The homogenised tobacco material can be formed by coagulation of particulate tobacco. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a tobacco-free material. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a homogenised plant substrate material. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise at least one aerosol-former. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise other additives and ingredients, such as flavourants. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate is a shisha substrate. A shisha substrate is understood to mean a consumable material suitable for use in a shisha device. The shisha substrate can comprise molasses.

[0064] The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise, for example, one or more of: a powder, a fine particle, a pellet, a shard, a fine strip, a strip or a sheet. The aerosol-forming substrate can contain one or more of: herbal plant leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco leaf vein segments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenised tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco.

[0065] The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise at least one aerosol former. Suitable aerosol formers include a compound or mixture of compounds which, in use, favour the formation of a dense and stable aerosol and are substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the shisha device. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol monoacetate, glycerol diacetate or glycerol triacetate; and fatty acid esters of mono-, di- or poly-carboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Particularly preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof, for example triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and most preferably glycerol. The aerosol-forming substrate can include any suitable amount of aerosol former. For example, the aerosol former content of the substrate can be equal to or greater than 5% by dry weight, and preferably greater than 30% by dry weight. The aerosol former content can be less than about 95% by dry weight. Preferably, the content of aerosol former is up to about 55%.

[0066] The aerosol-forming substrate preferably includes nicotine and at least one aerosol former. In some embodiments, the aerosol former is glycerol or a mixture of glycerol and one or more other suitable aerosol formers, such as those listed above.

[0067] The aerosol-forming substrate can include other additives and ingredients, such as flavourings and sweeteners, etc. In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate includes any suitable amount of one or more sugars. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises invert sugar. Invert sugar is a mixture of glucose and fructose obtained by splitting sucrose. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate includes about 1% to about 40% by weight of sugar, such as invert sugar. In some examples, the one or more sugars can be mixed with a suitable carrier such as corn starch or maltodextrin.

[0068] In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate includes one or more sensory enhancers. Suitable sensory enhancers include flavourings and sensates, such as cooling agents. Suitable flavourings include natural or synthetic menthol, peppermint, spearmint, coffee, tea, flavourings such as cinnamon, clove, ginger or combinations thereof, cocoa, vanilla, fruit flavours, chocolate, eucalyptus, geranium, eugenol, agave, juniper, anethole, linalool and any combination thereof.

[0069] In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate is in the form of a suspension. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate can comprise molasses. As used herein, "molasses" refers to an aerosol-forming substrate composition comprising about 20% or more sugar. For example, the molasses can comprise at least about 25% sugar by weight, such as at least about 35% sugar by weight. Typically, the molasses will comprise less than about 60% sugar by weight, such as less than about 50% sugar by weight.

[0070] Any suitable amount of aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., molasses or tobacco substrate) can be provided in the cavity. In some preferred embodiments, about 3g to about 25g of aerosol-forming substrate is provided in the cavity. The cartridge can comprise at least 6g, at least 7g, at least 8g, or at least 9g of aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge can comprise up to 15g, up to 12g; up to 11g, or up to 10g of aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, about 7g to about 13g of aerosol-forming substrate is provided in the cavity.

[0071] The aerosol-forming substrate can be provided on or embedded in a heat stable carrier. As used herein, the term "heat stable" means a material that does not substantially degrade at temperatures to which the substrate is typically heated (e.g., about 150°C to about 300°C). The carrier can comprise a thin layer on which the substrate is deposited on a first major surface, a second major outer surface, or both the first major surface and the second major surface. The carrier can be formed of, for example, a paper or paper-like material, a non-woven carbon fiber mat, a low mass open mesh metallic screen, or a perforated metallic foil, or any other heat stable polymeric substrate. Alternatively, the carrier can be in the form of a powder, granules, pellets, chips, fine strips, strips, or a sheet. The carrier can be a non-woven fabric or a bundle of fibers in which a tobacco component has been incorporated. The non-woven fabric or bundle of fibers can comprise, for example, carbon fibers, natural cellulose fibers, or cellulose-derived fibers.

[0072] The body of the cartridge can include one or more walls. In some embodiments, the body includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and a side wall. The side wall can be cylindrical or frustoconical, extending from the bottom to the top. The body can include one or more parts. For example, the side wall and the bottom wall can be a single part that is integral. The side wall and the bottom wall can be two parts that are configured to engage with one another in any suitable manner. For example, the side wall and the bottom wall can be configured to engage with one another by a threaded engagement or an interference fit. The side wall and the bottom wall can be two parts that are bonded together. For example, the side wall and the bottom wall can be bonded together by a weld or by an adhesive. The top and the side wall can be a single unitary part. The side wall and the top wall can be two parts that are configured to engage with one another in any suitable manner. For example, the side wall and the top wall can be configured to engage with one another by a threaded engagement or an interference fit. The side wall and the top wall can be two parts that are bonded together. For example, the side wall and the top wall can be bonded together by a weld or by an adhesive. The top wall, the side wall, and the bottom wall can each be a single unitary part. The top wall, the side wall, and the bottom wall can be three separate parts that are configured to engage with one another in any suitable manner. For example, the top wall, the side wall, and the bottom wall can be configured to engage by a threaded engagement, an interference fit, a weld, or an adhesive.

[0073] One or more walls of the body can form a heatable wall or surface. As used herein, "heatable wall" and "heatable surface" mean a region of a wall or surface to which heat can be applied directly or indirectly. The heatable wall or surface can serve as a heat transfer surface through which heat can be transferred from the exterior of the body to the cavity or to an interior surface of the cavity.

[0074] Preferably, the body of the cartridge has a length (e.g., an axial length along a vertical central axis) of about 15 cm or less. In some embodiments, the length of the body is about 10 cm or less. The body can have an inner diameter of about 1 cm or more. The inner diameter of the body can be about 1.75 cm or more. The cartridge can have a heatable surface area in the cavity of about 25 cm 2 to about 100 cm 2 , such as about 70 cm 2 to about 100 cm 2 . The volume of the cavity can be about 10 cm 3 to about 50 cm 3 ; preferably about 25 cm 3 to about 40 cm 3 . In some embodiments, the length of the body is in the range of about 3.5 cm to about 7 cm. The inner diameter of the body can be about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm. The body can have a heatable surface area in the cavity of about 30 cm 2 to about 100 cm 2 , such as about 70 cm 2 to about 100 cm 2heatable surface area. The volume of the cavity can be about 10 cm 3 to about 50 cm 3 ; preferably about 25 cm 3 to about 40 cm 3 . Preferably, the main body is cylindrical or frustoconical.

[0075] The cartridge main body can include one or more openings or vents through one or more walls of the main body. The vent can be an inlet, an outlet, or an inlet and an outlet. The vent can be provided at the bottom wall, the top wall, the sides, or a combination thereof of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge does not include any preformed openings or vents. In some embodiments, the cartridge includes preformed openings or vents in only one wall. For example, the cartridge can include openings or vents in only the bottom wall. In some embodiments, one or more inlets or one or more outlets are formed in the cartridge wall by a piercing assembly to allow air flow through the aerosol-forming substrate when the cartridge is used with a shisha device. In some embodiments, one or more inlets and outlets are formed in the cartridge wall by a piercing assembly to allow air flow through the aerosol-forming substrate when the cartridge is used with a shisha device. In some embodiments, the bottom wall of the cartridge can define one or more openings to form one or more outlets of the cartridge. Preferably, the one or more inlets and outlets are sized and shaped to provide an appropriate resistance to draw (RTD) through the cartridge. In some examples, the RTD through the cartridge from the one or more inlets to the one or more outlets can be about 10 mm H2O to about 50 mm H2O, preferably about 20 mm H2O to about 40 mm H2O. The RTD of a sample refers to the static pressure difference between the two ends of the sample when air flow is traversing the sample under steady conditions in which the volumetric flow rate at the output end is 17.5 millilitres / second. The RTD of a sample can be measured using the method specified in ISO Standard 6565:2002.

[0076] The one or more openings on the main body (once formed) can cover 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more of the area of the wall in which the openings are located. For example, if the openings are on the top wall, the openings can cover at least 5% of the area of the top wall. The one or more openings on the main body can cover 75% or less, 50% or less, 40% or less, or 30% or less of the area of the wall in which the openings are located.

[0077] The cartridge can also include a seal or layer covering one or more preformed openings prior to use. The cartridge can include a first removable seal covering one or more inlets and a second removable seal covering one or more outlets. The first and second seals are preferably sufficient to prevent air flow through the inlets and outlets to prevent leakage of the cartridge’s contents and extend shelf life. The seals can include a peelable label, sticker, foil, or the like. The seals can include a pierceable label, sticker, foil, or the like. The label, sticker, or foil can be affixed to the cartridge in any suitable manner, such as by adhesive, crimping, welding, or otherwise joining to the container. The seals can include a tab that can be grasped to peel or remove the label, sticker, or foil from the cartridge.

[0078] In some embodiments, the cartridge is a shisha cartridge that can be used with any suitable shisha device. Preferably, the shisha device is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge sufficiently to form an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate, but not to combust the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the shisha device can be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature in a range of about 150°C to about 300°C; more preferably about 180°C to about 250°C or about 200°C to about 230°C.

[0079] The shisha device can include a receptacle for receiving the cartridge. The shisha device can include a heating element configured to contact or be proximate to the body of the cartridge when the cartridge is received in the receptacle. The heating element can form at least a portion of the receptacle. For example, the heating element can form at least a portion of a surface of the receptacle. The shisha cartridge can be configured to transfer heat from the heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity by conduction. In some embodiments, the heating element includes an electrical heating element. In some embodiments, the heating element includes an electrical resistance heating component. For example, the heating element can include one or more electrical resistance wires or other electrical resistance elements. The electrical resistance wires can be in contact with a thermally conductive material to distribute the generated heat over a wider area. Examples of suitable electrically conductive materials include aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, and combinations thereof. The heating element can form at least a portion of a surface of the receptacle.

[0080] A shisha device can comprise control electronics operably coupled to the heating element. The control electronics can be configured to control heating of the heating element. The control electronics can be configured to control a temperature to which the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is heated. The control electronics can be provided in any suitable form and may, for example, comprise a controller or a memory and a controller. The controller can comprise one or more of an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor, a gate array, a microprocessor, or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. The control electronics can comprise a memory containing instructions that cause one or more components of the circuit to perform a function or aspect of the control electronics. Functions attributable to the control electronics in the present disclosure can be embodied as one or more of software, firmware, and hardware.

[0081] The electronic circuitry can comprise a microprocessor, which can be a programmable microprocessor. The electronic circuitry can be configured to regulate the supply of power. The supply of power can be supplied to the heater element in the form of a current pulse.

[0082] In some examples, the control electronics can be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and to control the supply of power to the heating element in dependence on the electrical resistance of the heating element. In this way, the control electronics can regulate the temperature of the resistive element.

[0083] The shisha device can comprise a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple. The temperature sensor can be operably coupled to the control electronics to control the temperature of the heating element. The temperature sensor can be positioned in any suitable location. For example, the temperature sensor can be configured to be inserted into a cartridge received within the housing to monitor the temperature of the heated aerosol-forming substrate. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature sensor can be in contact with the heating element. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature sensor can be positioned to detect the temperature at the aerosol outlet of the shisha device or a portion thereof. The sensor can transmit a signal relating to the sensed temperature to the control electronics. The control electronics can regulate the heating of the heating element in response to the signal that a suitable temperature is achieved at the sensor.

[0084] The control electronics can be operably coupled to a power source. The hookah device can include any suitable power source. For example, the power source of the hookah device can be a battery or a battery pack. The battery of the power source can be rechargeable, removable and replaceable, or rechargeable and removable and replaceable. Any suitable battery can be used. For example, heavy duty or standard batteries are available on the market, such as batteries used for industrial heavy duty power tools. Alternatively, the power source can be any type of power source, including super / hyper capacitors. Alternatively, the assembly can be connected to an external power source, and designed electrically and electronically for such purposes. Regardless of the type of power source employed, the power source preferably provides sufficient energy to enable the assembly to function properly for at least one hookah session, until the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is depleted, before the device is recharged or needs to be connected to an external power source. Preferably, the power source provides sufficient energy to enable the assembly to function properly for at least about 70 minutes of continuous operation of the device, before the device is recharged or needs to be connected to an external power source.

[0085] In one example, the hookah device includes an aerosol generating element including a cartridge receptacle, a heating element, an aerosol outlet, and an air inlet. The cartridge receptacle is configured to receive a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate according to the present disclosure. The heating element can define at least a portion of a surface of the receptacle.

[0086] The hookah device includes an air inlet channel in fluid connection with the receptacle. In use, as the substrate inside the cartridge is heated, aerosol-forming agent components in the substrate are vaporized. Air flowing through the cartridge from the air inlet channel entrains aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming agent components in the cartridge.

[0087] Some electrically heated hookah devices employ preheated air and generally employ an air flow path such that air travels near the heat source upon inhalation. In addition, some electrically heated hookah devices employ elements that increase radiative heat transfer by increasing the surface area that is heated.

[0088] The air inlet channel can include one or more orifices through the cartridge receptacle such that air can flow through the channel from outside the hookah device and through the one or more orifices into the cartridge receptacle. If the channel includes more than one orifice, the channel can include a manifold to direct air flowing through the channel to each orifice. Preferably, the hookah device includes two or more air inlet channels.

[0089] As described above, the cartridge includes one or more openings (such as an inlet or outlet) formed in the body that allow air to flow through the cartridge. If the holder includes one or more inlet apertures, at least some of the inlets in the cartridge can be aligned with the apertures in the top of the holder. The cartridge can include alignment features configured to mate with complementary alignment features of the holder to align the inlets of the cartridge with the apertures of the holder when the cartridge is inserted into the holder.

[0090] Air entering the cartridge can flow over or through or both over and through the aerosol-forming substrate, entraining aerosol, out of the cartridge and holder via the aerosol outlet. The aerosol-entrained air enters the waterpipe device’s reservoir via the stem tube from the aerosol outlet.

[0091] The waterpipe device can include any suitable reservoir that defines an interior volume configured to contain liquid and that defines an outlet in a headspace above a liquid fill level. The reservoir can include an optically transparent or optically opaque housing to allow a consumer to view the contents contained in the reservoir. The reservoir can include a liquid fill limit, such as a liquid fill line. The reservoir housing can be formed of any suitable material. For example, the reservoir housing can include glass or a suitable rigid plastic material. Preferably, the reservoir is removable from the portion of the waterpipe assembly that includes the aerosol-generating element to allow a consumer to fill, purge, or clean the reservoir.

[0092] A consumer can fill the reservoir to a liquid level. The liquid preferably includes water, which can optionally be infused with one or more colorants, flavorants, or colorants or flavorants. For example, the water can be infused with one or both of a botanical infusion and a herbal infusion.

[0093] The aerosol entrained in the air exiting the aerosol outlet of the holder can travel through a conduit positioned in the reservoir. The conduit can be coupled to the aerosol outlet of the aerosol-generating element and can have an opening below the liquid fill level of the reservoir such that the aerosol flowing through the reservoir flows through the opening of the conduit and then through the liquid into the headspace of the reservoir and out of the headspace outlet for delivery to a consumer.

[0094] The headspace outlet can be coupled to a hose that includes a mouthpiece for delivering the aerosol to a consumer. The mouthpiece can include an activation element, such as a switch that is activatable by a user, a puff sensor arranged to detect a user puffing on the mouthpiece, or both a switch and a puff sensor that are activatable by a user. The activation element is operably coupled to control electronics of the waterpipe device. The activation element can be wirelessly coupled to the control electronics. Activation of the activation element can cause the control electronics to activate the heating element rather than constantly supplying energy to the heating element. Thus, use of the activation element can serve to conserve energy relative to devices that do not employ such an element to provide on-demand heating rather than constant heating.

[0095] For purposes of example, a method of using a hookah device as described herein is provided below in chronological order. The container can be separated from other components of the hookah device and filled with water. One or more of a natural fruit juice, botanical tisane, and herbal infusion can be added to the water for flavoring. The amount of liquid added should cover a portion of the conduit but should not exceed a fill level marker that can optionally be present on the container. The container is then reassembled to the hookah device. The cartridge can be placed into the receptacle. The cover can be placed over the receptacle and cartridge such that the cartridge is received in the cavity inside the cover. The gripping member grips the cartridge as the gripping fingers slide under the top of the cartridge. The user can press the cover down against the cartridge such that the piercing element (e.g., the top piercing assembly, the bottom piercing assembly, or both the top and bottom piercing assemblies) engages the cartridge to pierce one or more walls of the cartridge. The device can then be turned on. Turning on the device can initiate a heating profile of the heating element to heat the aerosol- forming substrate to a temperature at or above the vaporization temperature but below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate. Aerosol-forming compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate vaporize, generating an aerosol. The user can smoke the mouthpiece as desired. The user can continue to use the device as desired, or until no more aerosol is visible or delivered. In some embodiments, the device can be arranged to automatically shut off when the cartridge or compartment of the cartridge is depleted of available aerosol-forming substrate. The user can press the cover to release the cover. The top of the cover can rise above the top level of the body of the aerosol generating element, allowing the user to grip the top of the cover. The user can remove the cover, also removing the cartridge gripped by the gripping member. In some embodiments, after receiving a prompt, for example from the device, that the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is depleted or nearly depleted, the consumer can refill the device with a fresh cartridge. The consumer can shut off the hookah device at any time by, for example, turning off the device. The user can discard the cartridge by contacting the gripping member with a release member of the disposal device, or by actuating a release mechanism on the cover.

[0096] The hookah device can have any suitable air management. In one example, the user’s act of drawing on the device will create a suction effect, causing a low pressure inside the device, which will cause outside air to flow through an air inlet of the device, into an air inlet channel, and into the receptacle. The air can then flow into the cartridge in the receptacle and entrain the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate. The air entraining the aerosol then exits the aerosol outlet of the receptacle, flows through the conduit to the liquid inside the container. The aerosol will then well up out of the liquid and into the headspace above the level of the liquid in the container, out the headspace outlet, and through the hose and mouthpiece to the consumer. The flow of outside air and the flow of aerosol inside the hookah device can be driven by the user’s act of drawing on the device.

[0097] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, which depict one or more embodiments described in this disclosure. However, it should be understood that other embodiments not depicted in the drawings fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Similar designations used in the drawings refer to similar parts. The use of different designations to refer to parts in different drawings is not intended to indicate that parts with different designations cannot be the same as or similar to parts with other designations. The drawings are presented for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. The schematic diagrams presented in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Attached Figure Description

[0098] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a hookah device.

[0099] Figure 2A and Figure 2B These are respectively used according to the implementation plan. Figure 1 Schematic top and bottom views of the main body of the hookah pipe in a hookah device.

[0100] Figure 3A It is a schematic top view of the hookah after it has been punctured by the punctured component, according to the implementation plan.

[0101] Figure 3B It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 1 A schematic bottom view of the hookah pipe used in hookah devices.

[0102] Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram of the hookah device and cover in use according to the implementation plan.

[0103] Figure 5A It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 4A A cross-sectional side view of the cover.

[0104] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Exploded view of the cover.

[0105] Figure 6 It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 4A A schematic perspective view of the lid frame.

[0106] Figure 7 It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 4A A schematic perspective view of the outer protective cover of the lid.

[0107] Figure 8 It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 4A A schematic perspective view of the spring in the cover.

[0108] Figure 9 It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 4A A schematic perspective view of the inner protective cover of the lid.

[0109] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view of a support plate of a lid according to an embodiment. Figure 4A

[0110] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view of a gripping member of a lid according to an embodiment. Figure 4A

[0111] Figure 12A and Figure 12B are respectively a schematic side view and a top view of a gripping member according to an embodiment. Figure 4A

[0112] Figures 13A to 13D is a side view of a track and a pin at different positions during use of a lid according to an embodiment. Figure 4A

[0113] Figure 14A and Figure 14B are respectively a schematic side view and a top view of a cartridge handling device according to an embodiment.

[0114] Figure 15 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of use of a lid according to an embodiment and Figure 4A Figure 14A and Figure 14B is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of use of a cartridge handling device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0115] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a hookah device 100. The device 100 comprises a container 17 defining an internal volume configured to contain a liquid 19 and defining a headspace outlet 15 above a fill level of the liquid 19. The liquid 19 preferably comprises water, which can optionally be infused with one or more colorants, one or more flavorants, or one or more colorants and one or more flavorants. For example, the water can be infused with one or both of a botanical infusion and a herbal infusion.

[0116] ​​​​​The device 100 also includes an aerosol-generating element 130. The aerosol-generating element 130 includes a receptacle 140 configured to receive a cartridge 200 comprising aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating element 130 also includes a heating element 160. The heating element 160 can form at least one surface of the receptacle 140. In the depicted embodiment, the heating element 160 defines a side surface of the receptacle 140. The aerosol-generating element 130 also includes an air inlet channel 170 that draws air into the device 100. In some embodiments, a portion of the air inlet channel 170 is formed by the heating element 160 to heat the air before it enters the receptacle 140. The pre-heated air then enters the cartridge 200 (which is also heated by the heating element 160) to carry the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming agent and aerosol-forming substrate. The air exits the outlet of the aerosol-generating element 130 and enters the conduit 190.

[0117] The conduit 190 carries the air and aerosol into the container 17 below the level of the liquid 19. The air and aerosol can bubble through the liquid 19 and then exit the headspace outlet 15 of the container 17. A hose 20 can be attached to the headspace outlet 15 to carry the aerosol to the user’s mouth. A mouthpiece 25 can be attached to the hose 20 or formed as part of the hose.

[0118] In use, an example air flow path of the device is indicated by the bold arrows in Figure 1 .

[0119] The mouthpiece 25 can include an activation element 27. The activation element 27 can be a switch, button, or the like, or can be a puff sensor or the like. The activation element 27 can be placed in any other suitable location of the device 100. The activation element 27 can be in wireless communication with the control electronics 30 to place the device 100 in a use state or to cause the control electronics to activate the heating element 160; for example, by causing the power supply 35 to power the heating element 160.

[0120] The control electronics 30 and the power supply 35 can be located at any suitable location of the aerosol-generating element 130, including locations other than the bottom portion of the element 130 as shown in Figure 1 .

[0121] Reference is now made to Figure 2A and Figure 2B , which show various embodiments of a cartridge body 210. The body 210 can include a sidewall 212, a top wall 215, and a bottom wall 213 that define a cavity 218. As shown, the sidewall 212 can be cylindrical or frustoconical. Figure 2A The body 210 is shown with a portion of the top 215 removed, showing the cavity 218 inside the body. The body 210 can define a central axis A that extends through the body 210. As shown, the central axis A can be coaxial with the sidewall 212.Figure 2B As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the top portion can include a flange 219 extending from the sidewall 212.

[0122] Referring now to Figure 3A and Figure 3B One or both of the top portion 215 and the bottom portion 213 of the body can have a plurality of apertures 217, 216 to allow air to flow through the cartridge when the cartridge is in use. Some or all of the apertures 217, 216 can be formed by a piercing assembly. For example, the apertures 217 of the top portion 215 can be formed by a top piercing assembly 401. The apertures 216 of the bottom portion 213 can be formed by a bottom piercing assembly 301. The cartridge 200 can also or alternatively include apertures along the sidewall 212. In embodiments in which the top or bottom portion includes pre-formed apertures, the apertures can be blocked by a peelable seal or liner when the cartridge is stored prior to use.

[0123] Figure 4A A partial schematic view of a hookah device 100 having a cover 400 and a gripping member 450 is shown in FIG. 4. The gripping member 450 is configured to grip the cartridge 200. The cover 400 can include an outer frame 410 that houses the gripping member 450. The gripping member 450 can include a ring member 451 and one or more gripping fingers 452. The one or more gripping fingers can be configured to rest against the flange 219 of the cartridge 200 when the cartridge 200 is received within the receptacle and the cover 400 is placed over the cartridge 200.

[0124] The cover 400 can optionally include a piercing assembly 401 (e.g., a top piercing assembly). The cover 400 can include an outer shroud 420 and a piercing element 440 on an inner wall of the outer shroud 420. In some embodiments, such as those illustrated, the piercing element 440 can be disposed on an inner end wall 421. The piercing assembly 401 can also include an inner shroud 430 disposed at least partially within the outer shroud. The piercing element 440 can be oriented toward the cartridge 200 placed within the receptacle of the hookah device 100. The hookah device 100 can also optionally include a piercing assembly 301 (e.g., a bottom piercing assembly) at the upstream end of the stem tube 190. Once the cartridge 200 has been pierced by one or both of the piercing assemblies 301, 401, an air flow path is established through the cartridge 200, as shown in FIG. 5. Figure 4B

[0125] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Examples of the cover 400 and the gripping member 450 are shown in FIGS. 4-6. Figures 6 to 11 ​Detailed views of each of the elements of the cover 400 and the gripping member 450 are shown. The cover 400 and the gripping member 450 may define a longitudinal axis A. The longitudinal axis A may be a central axis. When the cover 400 is arranged on the hookah device 100, the longitudinal axis A may be coaxial with the hollow tube of the rod tube 190.

[0126] Figure 6 The illustrated outer frame 410 may include a cylindrical outer wall 413 extending between a first end wall 411 and an open second end 412. The outer frame 410 may define a cavity 419 for receiving the piercing assembly 401. The first end wall 411 may have a protrusion 414 extending from an inner wall. The protrusion 414 may be configured to press against the outer shield 420 while leaving a gap between the outer frame 410 and the outer shield 420.

[0127] According to the implementation plan, the cover 400 includes a gripping member 450 configured as a gripping cylinder 200. Figure 11 , Figure 12A and Figure 12B The gripping member 450 shown may include a ring member 451 and one or more gripping fingers 452. The one or more gripping fingers 452 may include spring fingers. The one or more gripping fingers 452 extend from the ring member 451 to an upper end 453. In some embodiments where the gripping member 450 includes a plurality of gripping fingers 452, the gripping fingers 452 may be equidistant from each other around the ring member 451.

[0128] The gripping member 450 can be disposed inside the cavity of the cover 400. For example... Figure 5A The gripping member 450 can be positioned within the inner cover 430. The gripping member 450 can be oriented such that one or more gripping fingers 452 point upwards from the ring member 451. The one or more gripping fingers 452 can be radially inwardly inclined towards the longitudinal (central) axis A. The one or more gripping fingers 452 can be configured such that when the cylinder 200 is received within the inner cover 430, the ends of the gripping fingers 452 abut against the upper flange 219 of the cylinder 200. The inner diameter of the ring member 451 can be larger than the maximum diameter of the cylinder 200.

[0129] Figure 7The outer cover 420 shown is configured to at least partially fit within a cavity 419 of the outer cover frame 410. The outer cover 420 may include a cylindrical outer wall 423 extending between a first end wall 421 and an open second end 422. The outer cover 420 may define a cavity 429 for receiving a puncture element 440 and an inner cover 430. The outer cover 420 may include a puncture element 440. The puncture element 440 extends axially downward within the cavity of the outer cover 420. The puncture element 440 is centered relative to the longitudinal axis A of the outer cover 420. The puncture element 440 may be integral with the outer cover 420 or may be attached to the interior of the first end wall 421 of the outer cover 420. The puncture element 440 may include one or more puncture edges or puncture points 441. The puncture edges or puncture points 441 are configured to puncture a wall (e.g., top wall) of the cylinder 200. The puncture element 440 can be configured such that it engages through an opening 437 on the inner shield 430. The outer shield 420 may include a bottom flange 427. The bottom flange 427 may extend outward from the bottom of the outer wall 423.

[0130] Figure 9 The inner shield 430 shown is configured to at least partially fit within the cavity 429 of the outer shield 420. The inner shield 430 may have an outer wall comprising a first portion 433 and a second portion 434. The first portion 433 may be a cylindrical wall having a first diameter, and the second portion 434 may be a cylindrical wall having a second diameter. The second diameter may be larger than the first diameter. The first portion 433 and the second portion 434 may be separated by a shoulder 435. The shoulder 435 may be configured to support a compression spring 470. Figure 8 (As shown in the diagram). A compression spring 470 may engage around a first portion 433. An end of the compression spring 470 may be supported on a shoulder 435, allowing the spring to compress against the shoulder 435. The outer wall of the inner shroud 430 may extend between a first end wall 431 and an open second end 432. The inner shroud 430 may define a cavity 439 for receiving a gripping member 450 and for receiving a cartridge 200. The inner shroud 430 may have an opening 437 at the first end wall 431. The opening 437 may be configured to receive a piercing element 440. The opening 437 may also include one or more channels 438 for facilitating airflow through the inner shroud 430 when the piercing element 440 is received in the opening 437.

[0131] The outer frame 410 may optionally include components configured to support the support plate 460. Figure 10 The screw holes 462 at the bottom of the outer frame 410 are used for fastening. Alternatively, the support plate 460 can be fastened by other means, such as by adhesive. The support plate 460 can be a substantially circular plate with a central hole 461 extending through the plate.Figure 5A As shown, the support plate 410 can be sized to hold the outer shroud 420 and the inner shroud 430 within the cavity 419 of the outer frame 410. The support plate 410 can also hold the gripping member 450 inside the cavity 419 of the outer frame 410.

[0132] The outer shroud 420 and the inner shroud 430 can include a track and pin system to guide movement of the outer shroud 420 and the inner shroud 430 relative to each other. The outer shroud 420 can include one or more pins 425 extending radially inward from the cylindrical outer wall 423 thereof. The inner shroud 430 can include one or more tracks 436 corresponding to the one or more pins 425. Figures 13A to 13D An exemplary track 436 and path guided by the track 436 is shown. The position of the track 436 and the pin 425 can define the relative position of the outer shroud 420 and the inner shroud 430. First, the cap outer frame 410 and the outer shroud 420 are in a first position PI. That is, the pin 425 is in a first position PI within the track 436. The first position PI can be considered a rest position. The guide track can include a first portion and a second portion. The guide track can include a second position P2, which can be a puncture position of the puncturing element. The first portion can define a first distance between the first position PI and the second position P2. The first portion can define a third position P3. The third position P3 can be a use position. The second portion can define a second distance between the third position P3 and a fourth position P4. The second distance can be shorter than the first distance. The first portion can guide the track pin in an axial direction and in a radial direction.

[0133] In the first position PI, the gripping member 450 engages the barrel 200. For example, the upper end 453 of the gripping finger 452 can slide past (below) the flange 219 of the barrel when the cap is placed in the first position PI. Alternatively, the gripping member 450 can engage the barrel 200 later when the cap 400 is pushed down. A force can be applied to the cap outer frame 410 and the outer shroud 420, for example, the cap 400 can be pressed down (e.g., by a user) to move the pin from the first position to the second position P2 (see Figure 13AThe piercing element 440 can also engage and pierce the cartridge 200 in the second position P2. Upon removal of the force, for example when pressure is released from the cap outer frame 410 and the outer shroud 420 (e.g. by the user letting go), the compression spring 470 returns the cap outer frame 410 and the outer shroud 420 to the third position P3. Movement of the cap during the initial push down of the cap to pierce the cartridge and release of the cap to allow the cap to return to the third (use) position is defined by the first portion of the track. In the third position P3, the gripping member 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200. In the third position P3, the airflow path is open through the opening formed in the cartridge 200 and between the outside of the shisha device and the container. To release and remove the cap 400, the user can press the cap outer frame 410 again, causing the cap outer frame 410 and the outer shroud 420 to move to a fourth position P4, from which the compression spring 470 returns the cap outer frame 410 and the outer shroud 420 to the initial first position P1. Movement of the cap in the case of a second push down of the cap to release the cap is defined by the second portion of the track. When the cap returns to the first position P1, the gripping member 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200, lifting the cartridge 200 with the cap. The top of the cap 400 can be lifted above the top edge of the aerosol generating element. The user can then remove (e.g. lift) the cap from the aerosol generating element, thus removing the cartridge 200 with the cap.

[0134] In some embodiments, Figure 14A and Figure 14B The handling system 600 shown in FIGS. 6A-6C can be used with the shisha device 100 and the cap 400. The handling system 600 can be used to remove and optionally dispose of the cartridge 200. The handling system 600 can include a cartridge handling device 601. The cartridge handling device 601 can include a cartridge release member 610. The cartridge release member 610 can be a pressure ring. The cartridge release member 610 can be configured to cooperate with the gripping member 450. The diameter D610 of the cartridge release member 610 (e.g. pressure ring or rim) can be less than the inner diameter D451 of the ring member 451 of the gripping member 450, but greater than the maximum diameter of the cartridge 200.

[0135] The gripping fingers 452 of the gripping member 450 can be biased towards a default position. Contacting the gripping member 450 with the cartridge release member 610 can push the gripping fingers 452 outward away from the default position. Contacting the gripping member 450 with the cartridge release member 610 can include engaging the cartridge release member 610 between the cartridge 200 and the ring member 451 of the gripping member 450 to flex one or more gripping fingers 452, thereby releasing the cartridge 200 from the gripping member 450.

[0136] The disposal system 600 can include a disposal container 620 having an opening 621. The shape of the disposal container 620 is not particularly limited and is shown in dashed lines. The cartridge release member 610 can be disposed at the opening 621. In some embodiments, the cartridge release member 610 comprises the rim or mouth of the opening 621. Bringing the gripping member 450 into contact with the cartridge release member 610 can comprise engaging the rim of the cartridge disposal device 601 between the cartridge 200 and the loop member 451 of the gripping member 450.

[0137] Figure 15 The operation and use of the hookah device 100 and the cap 400 to remove the cartridge 200 using the disposal system 600 is schematically illustrated. The hookah device 100 comprises an aerosol generating element 130 having a receptacle 140 configured to receive a cartridge 200 comprising aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating element 130 further comprises a heating element 160. The heating element 160 can form part of the receptacle 140. A user can start by placing the cartridge 200 in the receptacle 140 (step 1) and placing the cap 400 on the cartridge 200 (step 2) such that the cartridge 200 is received in the inner shroud 430 and the gripping member 450 slides over the top of the cartridge 200 such that the gripping fingers 452 grip the cartridge 200. If the cap comprises a piercing assembly, the user can push the cap to pierce the cartridge 200 (step 3). After releasing the cap 400, the spring 470 pushes the cap frame 410 and the outer shroud 420 upwards into the operating position (step 4). In the operating position, the air path through the cartridge 200 is open and the user can use the hookah device as usual. The gripping member 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200. After using the hookah device, the user can again push the cap 400 to release the cap (step 5). The track and pin system will guide the movement of the cap 400 allowing the spring 470 to return the cap 400 to its starting position (step 6). The gripping member 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200 lifting the cartridge 200 upwards with the cap 400. The user can then remove the cap 400 from the device (step 7). The cartridge 200 is held in the inner shroud 430 by the gripping member 450. The cartridge 200 can be removed by bringing the gripping member 450 into contact with the cartridge release member 610 of the cartridge disposal device 601 (step 8). The cartridge release member 610 can be configured to flex the gripping fingers 452. The cartridge release member 610 can be configured to push the gripping fingers 452 radially outwards to release the cartridge 200.

[0138] Alternatively, the cartridge 200 can be removed by actuating a release mechanism on the cap 400 which releases the gripping fingers 452 from the cartridge 200.

[0139] Thus, systems for grasping and releasing a cartridge for a waterpipe device are described. Various modifications and variations to the disclosed implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Although the present disclosure has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes of carrying out the present disclosure that are obvious to those skilled in mechanical, chemical, and aerosol-generating article manufacturing or related fields intended are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: An aerosol generating element, the aerosol generating element comprising a body and a receptacle for receiving a cylinder comprising an aerosol forming substrate; A container having a liquid level and defining a top space outlet above the liquid level; A conduit for conveying airflow from the containment to the container; as well as A lid, capable of engaging with the body, wherein the lid is configured to grip the cylinder and remove the cylinder from the receiver, the lid comprising: A frame, the frame including a cavity and having a central axis, wherein the cavity is arranged to receive the cylinder; and A gripping member configured to releasably grip the cylinder received in the container; The gripping member includes a ring member and one or more spring fingers extending from the ring member, the spring fingers extending axially toward the closed end of the cavity and radially inward from the ring member to grip the cylinder, and the spring fingers being capable of being radially outward to release the cylinder.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises an outer protective cover and an inner protective cover disposed within the outer protective cover, wherein the inner protective cover forms the cavity and the gripping member is at least partially disposed within the cavity of the inner protective cover.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the inner protective cover is axially movable within the outer protective cover.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the cover further comprises a spring element that causes the inner cover to be axially offset from the outer cover.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 2, wherein the inner shroud includes one or more guide rails, and the outer shroud includes one or more rail pins configured to cooperate with the one or more guide rails.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover includes a piercing element configured to pierce the cylinder.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more spring fingers have a bias toward a default position, and wherein the cover includes a release mechanism configured to counteract the bias, thereby moving the spring fingers away from the default position to release a cylinder received in the cavity.

8. An aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and a cartridge disposal apparatus, the cartridge disposal apparatus comprising: A disposal container having an opening; as well as A cylinder release member, which is configured to cooperate with the gripping member of the cover to actuate the release of the cylinder.

9. The aerosol generation system of claim 8, wherein the cylinder release member includes a pressure ring at the opening of the disposal container, the pressure ring being configured to flex the one or more spring fingers.

10. The aerosol generation system of claim 8, wherein the cylinder release member includes an edge of the disposal container, wherein the diameter of the edge is smaller than the diameter of the ring member of the gripping member, but larger than the diameter of the cylinder.

11. A method of using the aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the method comprising: Insert the tube into the container of the aerosol generating element; The cap is placed on the aerosol generating element so that the cylinder is gripped by the gripping member; Push the cover toward the container to release the cover from the aerosol generating element; Remove the cover from the aerosol generating element; as well as The gripping member is brought into contact with the cylinder release member, thereby releasing the cylinder from the gripping member.

12. The method according to claim 11, The cylinder release member includes an edge of the disposal container, wherein the diameter of the edge is smaller than the diameter of the ring member of the gripping member, but larger than the diameter of the cylinder; and Contacting the gripping member with the cylinder release member includes engaging the edge of the disposal container between the cylinder and the ring member of the gripping member to deflect the one or more spring fingers, thereby releasing the cylinder from the gripping member.

13. A method using the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, the method comprising: The cylinder is gripped by the gripping member, wherein one or more spring fingers are biased toward the cylinder; as well as The release mechanism is actuated to counteract the bias, thereby releasing the cylinder.

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