Cartridge insertion system for an aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device comprises a puller receivable in a puller accommodation. The puller can define a cartridge accommodation to removably receive a cartridge. The cartridge can comprise aerosol-forming substrate. The puller can be movable in a first direction between an open position and a closed position. The device can further comprise a heating element configured for heating the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge when the cartridge is received within the cartridge accommodation and the puller is in the closed position. The aerosol-generating device can comprise a shisha device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device and a cartridge containing aerosol-forming substrate for use in an aerosol-generating device, and more particularly to a cartridge insertion system for use in an aerosol-generating device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Traditional hookah devices are used to smoke and are configured such that vapour 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, traditional hookah is used in combination with a substrate, sometimes referred to in the art as hookah tobacco, tobacco molasses, or simply molasses. Traditional hookah substrates have a relatively high sugar content (in some cases up to -50%, whereas traditional tobacco substrates (such as combustible cigarettes) are typically -20%). The tobacco used in hookah devices can be mixed with other ingredients to, for example, increase the volume of vapour and smoke produced, change the taste, or both.

[0004] Traditional hookah devices employ charcoal (such as charcoal pellets) to heat and sometimes burn the tobacco substrate to generate an 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 vapour and pass through the water pool to the outlet.

[0005] One method of reducing carbon monoxide and combustion by-product production is to employ e-liquid instead of tobacco. Hookah devices that employ e-liquid eliminate combustion by-products, 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 by-products associated with tobacco combustion.

[0007] Hookah devices can employ a cartridge for containing aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge 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, flavourings, etc.). A heating system of the 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, the hookah cartridge can have one or more holes through one or more walls. The cartridge can include one or more holes at the top, one or more holes at the bottom, or both one or more holes at the top and one or more holes at the bottom. Alternatively, the top can be open, i.e., the top wall can be partially or completely absent. Any 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 during storage. 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] A hookah device can be described as having a main longitudinal axis. The hookah substrate of the cartridge is typically inserted longitudinally into the top portion of the hookah device into the heating chamber. To effectively heat the cartridge, the heating element should be positioned in close proximity to or in contact with the cartridge. When the user finishes using the cartridge, the cartridge is typically immediately removed from the hookah device and can be replaced by a new cartridge. If a new cartridge is not inserted, removal of the used cartridge can be beneficial to prevent leakage of the cartridge contents. The cartridge is typically removed opposite to insertion, which can pose a risk to the user as the cartridge and its surroundings have been heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosol. SUMMARY

[0010] It is desirable to have an insertion system for a hookah device that allows for practical positioning of a cartridge containing a hookah substrate for heating and drawing of the cartridge to reduce the risk of burns while maintaining effective heating of the cartridge to provide a consistent smoking experience.

[0011] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide an aerosol-generating device having a cartridge insertion system. The cartridge or heating element is movable between a first position and a second position. The first position can be a heating position. The first position can be a position for heating during use of the aerosol-generating device. The second position can be a non-heating position. The second position can be a position for the user to retrieve the cartridge. The cartridge insertion system can include a puller. The cartridge insertion system can include a heating element. The cartridge insertion system can include a repositioning assembly. In the heating position, the device can be configured such that the cartridge received therein is spaced apart from a wall of the puller. Advantageously, this reduces heating of the puller to facilitate safe extraction. The repositioning assembly can move the heating element or the cartridge. The repositioning assembly can be configured to bring the cartridge and the heating element in proximity. The heating element can be flexible.

[0012] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating device can include a housing. The housing can include a drawer receptacle. The device can also include a drawer receivable in the drawer receptacle. The drawer can include a cartridge receptacle to removably receive a cartridge. The cartridge can include an aerosol-forming substrate. The drawer can be movable between an open position and a closed position. The drawer can be movable in a first direction between the open position and the closed position. The device can also include a heating element. The heating element can be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge. The heating element can be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge when the cartridge is received within the cartridge receptacle and the drawer is in the closed position. The aerosol-generating device can comprise a shisha device.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating device includes a housing. The housing includes a drawer receptacle. The device also includes a drawer receivable in the drawer receptacle. The drawer includes a cartridge receptacle to removably receive a cartridge. The cartridge includes an aerosol-forming substrate. The drawer is movable in a first direction between an open position and a closed position. The device also includes a heating element. The heating element is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. The heating element is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge when the cartridge is received within the cartridge receptacle and the drawer is in the closed position.

[0014] The drawer can be movably coupled to the housing. The drawer can define a cartridge receptacle to removably receive a cartridge including an aerosol-forming substrate. The drawer can be movable between an open position and a closed position. The drawer can include one or more airflow apertures in fluid communication with the drawer receptacle and an interior of the container. A repositioning assembly can bring the received cartridge and the heating element in proximity to reduce a distance between the received cartridge and the heating element. The repositioning assembly can move the received cartridge or the heating element to a position for heating. In the heating position, the heating element can be in direct contact with the cartridge or in proximity to the cartridge. The aerosol-generating device can be configured to release a spent cartridge from the aerosol-generating device.

[0015] 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 include 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 includes nicotine.

[0016] The term "aerosol-forming substrate" as used herein refers to a material 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. In some cases, the volatile compounds can be released by a chemical reaction or by a mechanical stimulus such as ultrasonics. The aerosol-forming substrate can be disposed in the interior of the cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate can be solid or liquid, or can include 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 containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate can comprise non-tobacco-containing 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.

[0017] The term "heating position" as used herein refers to a position of a component of the aerosol-generating device that facilitates heating of the aerosol-forming substrate by the heating element. In some embodiments, the heating position can refer to the position of the cartridge receptacle (and thus the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge), the position of the heating element, or both the position of the cartridge receptacle and the position of the heating element. For example, the heating element can be in contact with or in proximity to a cartridge in the cartridge receptacle when the cartridge receptacle and the heating element are in their respective heating positions.

[0018] The terms "coupled" or "connected" refer to elements being either directly connected to one another (in direct contact with one another) or indirectly connected to one another (having one or more elements between and coupling them). Either term can be modified by "operatively" and "operably," which can be used interchangeably, to describe a coupling or connection configuration that permits the components to interact so as to carry out a function.

[0019] "Proximity" as used herein means to bring components together or to make components closer to one another so as to reduce the distance between the components.

[0020] The terms "integral" and "integrally formed" as used herein describe elements that are formed in one piece (a single integral piece). The integral or integrally formed components can be configured such that they cannot be removed from one another without causing structural damage to the piece.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0022] As used herein, "or" is generally employed in its sense of "one or the other or both" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0023] The term "about" as used herein in connection with a numerical value is used to include normal variations in measurement as would be expected by a person of ordinary skill in the art and is understood to have the same meaning as "approximately" and encompasses a typical range of error.

[0024] As used herein, "have," "having," "include," "including," "include," "includes," "comprise," "comprising," 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.

[0025] 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 or preferred in other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that a combination of preferred embodiments are not also preferred, and does not delimit the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, from including other embodiments.

[0026] The term "substantially" as used herein can be understood to modify the term that which it follows, such that the term indicates an amount that is acceptable or sufficient to accomplish the function for which the term stands. The term "substantially" as used herein can be understood to modify a following term by at least about 90%, by at least about 95%, or by at least about 98%. The term "non-substantially" as used herein can be understood to have the opposite meaning of "substantially," i.e., to modify a following term by no more than 10%, by no more than 5%, or by no more than 2%.

[0027] Any directions referred to herein, such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," and other such directions or orientations described herein are described for clarity and brevity and are not meant to limit the actual device or system. The devices and systems described herein can be used in multiple directions and orientations.

[0028] The aerosol-generating element can include a cartridge insertion system. The cartridge insertion system can include a puller. The cartridge insertion system can include a heating element or a connection to a heating element. The cartridge insertion system can include a puller. The cartridge insertion system can include a repositioning assembly. The repositioning assembly can be configured to bring the heating element and the cartridge into proximity. That is, the repositioning assembly can be configured to move one or both of the heating element and the cartridge toward one another. For example, the repositioning assembly can be configured to bring a cartridge receptacle in which the heating element and the cartridge are receivable into proximity. That is, the repositioning assembly can be configured to move one or both of the cartridge receptacle in which the heating element and the cartridge are receivable toward one another.

[0029] A puller receptacle can be formed in a housing of the aerosol-generating device to receive a puller. In some embodiments, the housing can be part of an aerosol- generating element of the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating element can be coupled to the container, for example via a conduit, to provide aerosol to a user through the container.

[0030] The cartridge can comprise any suitable body defining a cavity. The aerosol-forming substrate can be provided in the cavity of the cartridge. The body is preferably formed from one or more heat-resistant materials, such as heat-resistant metals or polymers. The body can comprise a thermally conductive material. For example, the body can comprise any one of: aluminium, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, any alloys thereof, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the body comprises aluminium.

[0031] The cartridge can be any suitable shape. For example, the cartridge can have a shape configured to be received by an aerosol-generating device, such as a shisha device. The cartridge can have a generally cuboid, cylindrical, frustoconical, or any other suitable shape. Preferably, the cartridge has a generally cylindrical or asymmetric shape, such as a frustoconical shape.

[0032] Any suitable aerosol-forming substrate can be provided in the cavity defined by the 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. The volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The 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.

[0033] The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise nicotine. The nicotine-containing aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a nicotine salt substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise plant-based 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 condensing particulate tobacco. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate can comprise tobacco-free material. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise homogenised plant-based material. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise at least one aerosol former. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise other additives and ingredients, such as flavourings. 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.

[0034] The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise one or more of, for example, 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.

[0035] 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 comprise 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 weight 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%.

[0036] The aerosol-forming substrate preferably comprises 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.

[0037] The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise other additives and ingredients such as flavourings and sweeteners etc. In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises 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 comprises about 1% to about 40% sugar, such as invert sugar, by weight. In some examples, the one or more sugars can be mixed with a suitable carrier such as corn starch or maltodextrin.

[0038] In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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 11 g, or up to 10g of aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, about 7g to about 13g of aerosol-forming substrate is provided in the cavity.

[0041] 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 from, for example, a paper or paper-like material, a non-woven carbon fibre 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, shreds, fine strips, strips or a sheet. The carrier can be a non-woven fabric or a bundle of fibres in which a tobacco component has been incorporated. The non-woven fabric or bundle of fibres can comprise, for example, carbon fibres, natural cellulose fibres or cellulose derived fibres.

[0042] 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 lateral wall. The lateral wall can be cylindrical or frustoconical, extending from the bottom to the top. The body can include one or more portions. For example, the lateral wall and the bottom wall can be a single portion that is integral. The lateral wall and the bottom wall can be two portions configured to engage one another in any suitable manner. For example, the lateral wall and the bottom wall can be configured to engage one another by a threaded engagement or an interference fit. The lateral wall and the bottom wall can be two portions that are joined together. For example, the lateral wall and the bottom wall can be joined together by a weld or by an adhesive. The top wall and the lateral wall can be a single integral portion. The lateral wall and the top wall can be two portions configured to engage one another in any suitable manner. For example, the lateral wall and the top wall can be configured to engage one another by a threaded engagement or an interference fit. The lateral wall and the top wall can be two portions that are joined together. For example, the lateral wall and the top wall can be joined together by a weld or by an adhesive. The top wall, the lateral wall, and the bottom wall can each be a single integral portion. The top wall, the lateral wall, and the bottom wall can be three separate portions configured to engage one another in any suitable manner. For example, the top wall, the lateral wall, and the bottom wall can be configured to engage one another by a threaded engagement, an interference fit, a weld, or an adhesive.

[0043] 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 outside of the body to the cavity or an interior surface of the cavity.

[0044] 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 , for example 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 cartridge 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 2The volume of the cavity can be from about 10 cm 3 to about 50 cm 3 ; preferably about 25 cm 3 to about 40 cm 3 . Preferably, the body is cylindrical or frustoconical.

[0045] The cartridge body can comprise one or more openings or vents through one or more walls of the body. The vents can be inlets, outlets, or both inlets and outlets. The vents can be provided at the bottom wall, the top wall, the sides, or a combination thereof, of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises one or more inlets and one or more outlets to allow air to flow through the aerosol-forming substrate when the cartridge is used with an aerosol-generating device. In some embodiments, the top wall of the cartridge can be absent or can define one or more openings to form one or more inlets of the cartridge. 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 from about 10 mm H20 to about 50 mm H20, preferably from about 20 mm H20 to about 40 mm H20. 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 per second. The RTD of a sample can be measured using the method specified in ISO Standard 6565:2002.

[0046] The one or more openings on the body 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 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.

[0047] The cartridge can further comprise a seal or layer covering the one or more inlets, and optionally a second seal or layer covering the one or more outlets prior to use. The cartridge can comprise a first removable seal covering the one or more inlets and a second removable seal covering the 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 contents of the cartridge and to extend shelf life. The seal can comprise a peelable label of a sticker, foil, or the like. The label, sticker, or foil can be adhered to the cartridge in any suitable manner, such as by adhesive, crimping, welding, or otherwise bonding to the container. The seal can comprise a tab that can be grasped to peel or remove the label, sticker, or foil from the cartridge.

[0048] In some embodiments, the cartridge is a shisha cartridge that can be used with any suitable shisha device. Preferably, the aerosol-generating device is configured to heat the aerosol-generating 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 aerosol-generating 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.

[0049] The aerosol-generating device is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge. The heating element can be coupled to the housing. Generally, the heating element is configured not to contact the draw piece during heating.

[0050] The heating element can contact one or more walls of the cartridge, such as a top wall, a bottom wall, or a lateral wall of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the heating element can contact two or more walls of the cartridge. For example, the heating element can squeeze or press the cartridge in the heating position.

[0051] The device can be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge by conduction. The shape and size of the cartridge are preferably set to allow contact with, or to minimize the distance between, the heating element of the aerosol-generating device to provide efficient heat transfer from the heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge. Heat can be generated by any suitable mechanism, such as by resistive heating or by induction. To facilitate induction heating, the cartridge can be provided with a susceptor. For example, the cartridge body can be made of or include a material that is capable of acting as a susceptor, such as aluminum, or a susceptor material can be disposed within the cavity of the cartridge. The susceptor material can be disposed within the cavity of the cartridge in any form, such as a powder, a solid block, a fragment, etc.

[0052] The heating element can be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge when the cartridge is received within the cartridge receptacle and the draw piece is in the closed position. 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 comprises an electric heating element. In some embodiments, the heating element comprises a resistive heating component. For example, the heating element can comprise one or more resistive wires or other resistive elements. The resistive 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.

[0053] The heating element can comprise a flexible material. A heating element comprising a flexible material can be described as a flexible heating element. The heating element can be biased in a particular direction, for example to contact or to be in proximity to the cartridge. In some embodiments, the heating element is configured to move to the heating position in response to the draw piece moving from the open position to the closed position.

[0054] The shape of the heating element can be shaped to engage the surface of the barrel. In some embodiments, the profile of the heating element is configured to substantially maximize the surface area engagement between the heating element and the barrel. In some embodiments, the heating element can have a "W" shape. Advantageously, the "W" shape helps the heating element press against the lateral wall of the barrel.

[0055] The flexible heating element can include two or more layers of material. In some embodiments, the flexible heating element can include a multi-layer heating strip. For example, the multi-layer heating strip can include at least a heating layer and a heat resistant layer, which can also be described as a high heat resistant layer.

[0056] The heating layer can be formed of thin wires of electrically resistive heating material, such as stainless steel wire, to provide resistive heating. In some embodiments, the heating layer can include braided wire. In some embodiments, the heating layer can include an array of electrically resistive portions electrically connected on a heat resistant flexible film or on a spring connection segment.

[0057] The high heat resistant layer can include a flexible foil having high heat resistance. For example, the high heat resistant layer can include polyimide or polyether ether ketone (PEEK). In some embodiments, the high heat resistant layer can include some rigid or deflected or spring-like portions to help bias or position the heating layer in direct contact or in close proximity to the barrel at the heating position of the heating element.

[0058] The multi-layer heating strip can include a third layer. The third layer can be a second high heat resistant layer having a low thermal conductivity. In some embodiments, the second high heat resistant layer can have a lower thermal conductivity than the first high heat resistant layer. For example, the second high heat resistant layer can include PEEK and the first high heat resistant layer can include polyimide.

[0059] The first high heat resistant layer having a high thermal conductivity can be positioned closer to the barrel than the second high heat resistant layer having a low thermal conductivity, particularly when the heating element is in the heating position. In some embodiments, the first high heat resistant layer can be positioned on an opposite side of the heating layer from the second high heat resistant layer, which can be closer to the wall of the puller. The heating layer can be positioned between the first high heat resistant layer and the second high heat resistant layer.

[0060] The flexible heating element can include two heating strips that can be biased to contact or be in close proximity to the barrel at a heating position. The two heating strips, which can each be a multi-layer heating strip, can press against the barrel at the heating position. The two heating strips can be positioned on opposite sides of the barrel at the heating position.

[0061] For example, if the cartridge has a conductive exterior, the flexible heating element can be tested for contact with the cartridge. In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity through at least two heating bars of the flexible heating element can be tested to determine whether the flexible contacts are in contact with the cartridge. High electrical conductivity from one heating bar to the other can indicate contact between each bar and the cartridge, while low electrical conductivity can indicate no contact or poor contact.

[0062] In some embodiments, one or more airflow apertures can be formed in the heating element to allow air or aerosol to pass through. For example, the airflow apertures can allow air to flow into the cartridge receptacle.

[0063] The aerosol-generating 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 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) state machine, a digital signal processor, a gate array, a microprocessor, or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. The control electronics can comprise a memory comprising instructions that cause one or more components of the circuit to perform a function or capability 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.

[0064] The electronic circuitry can comprise a microprocessor, which can be a programmable microprocessor. The electronic circuitry can be configured to regulate the supply of electrical power. The supply of electrical power can be provided to the heater element in the form of pulses of electrical current.

[0065] In some examples, the control electronics can be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and to control the supply of electrical 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.

[0066] The aerosol-generating 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 accommodation 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 aerosol-generating 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.

[0067] The control electronics can be operably coupled to a power source, which can power the heating element. The aerosol-generating device can comprise any suitable power source. For example, the power source of the aerosol-generating 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, a heavy duty or standard battery available on the market, such as a battery for industrial heavy duty power tools. Alternatively, the power source can be any type of power source, including a super / hyper capacitor. Alternatively, the assembly can be connected to an external power source and electrically and electronically designed for such purposes. Regardless of the type of power source employed, the power source preferably provides sufficient energy for the assembly to function properly for at least one session of vaping, until the aerosol from 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 for 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.

[0068] The aerosol-generating device comprises an air inlet passage in fluid connection with the cartridge accommodation. In use, when the substrate inside the heating cartridge is heated, the aerosol-forming agent components in the substrate are vaporised. Air flowing from the air inlet passage through the cartridge entrains the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming agent components in the cartridge.

[0069] Some electrically heated aerosol-generating devices employ preheated air and generally employ an airflow path such that air propagates in the vicinity of the heat source upon puffing. Furthermore, some electrically heated aerosol-generating devices employ elements that increase radiative heat transfer by increasing the surface area that is heated.

[0070] The air inlet passage can comprise one or more orifices through the cartridge receiving portion, such that air can flow from outside the aerosol-generating device through the passage and into the cartridge receiving portion through the one or more orifices. If the passage comprises more than one orifice, the passage can comprise a manifold to direct air flowing through the passage to each orifice. Preferably, the aerosol-generating device comprises two or more air inlet passages.

[0071] As described above, the cartridge comprises one or more openings, such as inlets or outlets, formed in the body that allow air to flow through the cartridge. If the cartridge receiving portion comprises one or more inlet orifices, at least some of the inlets in the cartridge can be aligned with the orifices in the top of the cartridge receiving portion. In some embodiments, the one or more air inlet orifices are formed in the heating element. The cartridge can comprise an alignment feature configured to mate with a complementary alignment feature of the cartridge receiving portion to align the inlets of the cartridge with the orifices of the cartridge receiving portion when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receiving portion.

[0072] Air entering the cartridge can flow through or past, or through and past, the aerosol-forming substrate, entrain aerosol, and exit the cartridge and cartridge receiving portion via the aerosol outlet. In some embodiments, the one or more aerosol outlets can be formed in the puller, such as the bottom wall of the puller. The air carrying aerosol from the aerosol outlet into the reservoir of the aerosol-generating device.

[0073] The aerosol-generating device can define a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis can be defined as extending between the housing and the reservoir.

[0074] The aerosol-generating device can comprise any suitable reservoir defining an interior volume configured to contain liquid and defining an outlet in a headspace above a liquid fill level. The interior volume can be in communication with the cartridge receiving portion and the outlet. The reservoir can comprise an optically transparent or optically opaque housing to allow a consumer to view the contents contained in the reservoir. The reservoir can comprise a liquid fill limit, such as a liquid fill line. The reservoir housing can be formed from any suitable material. For example, the reservoir housing can comprise glass or a suitable rigid plastics material. Preferably, the reservoir is removable from the portion of the hookah assembly comprising the aerosol-generating element to allow a consumer to fill, clean or clean the reservoir.

[0075] A consumer can fill the reservoir to a liquid fill level. The liquid preferably comprises water, which can optionally be infused with one or more colourants, flavourants or colourants and flavourants. For example, the water can be infused with one or both of a botanical infusion and a herbal infusion.

[0076] The aerosol entrained in the air exiting the aerosol outlet of the cartridge receptacle can travel through a conduit positioned in the container. The conduit can be described as an aerosol conduit. The conduit can transport aerosol from the cartridge receptacle below the liquid fill level in the container. 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 container such that aerosol flowing through the container flows through the opening of the conduit, then through the liquid into the headspace of the container, and exits through the headspace outlet for delivery to the consumer.

[0077] The headspace outlet can be coupled to a hose that includes a mouthpiece for delivering aerosol to a consumer. In particular, the headspace outlet can be in communication with the headspace. 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 can be operatively coupled to control electronics of the aerosol generating 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.

[0078] In some embodiments, the activation element can be activated by moving the puller to the closed position. For example, a sensor can be embedded in the heating element to ensure contact with the cartridge wall before activation. In some embodiments, the activation element can be activated upon detection of the heating element in contact with the cartridge.

[0079] Any suitable type of sensor can be used. Non-limiting examples include a contact sensor configured to detect a conductive wall of the cartridge to close a circuit, or an optical sensor that detects a distance from the cartridge wall.

[0080] For purposes of example, a method of using an aerosol generating device as described herein is provided below in chronological order. The container can be separated from other components of the aerosol generating device and filled with water. One or more of a natural fruit juice, a botanical, and a 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 aerosol generating device. The cartridge can be prepared by removing any removable layer, if present. A portion of the aerosol generating element can be opened to allow insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receptacle. In particular, the puller can be moved to an open position to receive the cartridge. The puller can be moved to a closed position to close the aerosol generating element. One or both of the cartridge and the heating element are repositioned to bring the heating element and the cartridge into contact or proximity with each other.

[0081] The device can 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 equal to or greater than the evaporation temperature but less than the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate evaporate, thereby generating an aerosol. The user can draw on 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 down when the aerosol-forming substrate available in the cartridge or compartment of the cartridge is depleted. In some embodiments, the consumer can refill the device with a new cartridge 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 turn off the aerosol-generating device at any time by, for example, turning off the device.

[0082] The aerosol-generating device can have any suitable air management. In one example, the user's act of drawing will create a suction effect, causing a low pressure inside the device, which will cause external air to flow through the air inlet of the device, into the air inlet channel and into the cartridge receptacle. The air can then flow to the cartridge in the cartridge receptacle and entrain the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate. The air entraining the aerosol then exits the aerosol outlet of the cartridge receptacle, flows through the conduit to the liquid inside the reservoir. The aerosol will then well up from the liquid and into the headspace above the liquid level in the reservoir, out of the headspace outlet and through the hose and mouthpiece for delivery to the consumer. The flow of external air and the flow of aerosol inside the aerosol-generating device can be driven by the user's act of drawing.

[0083] Generally, the aerosol-generating device can be configured to move at least one of the heating element and the cartridge in a repositioning direction to reduce the distance between the heating element and the cartridge when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receptacle in response to moving the pull from the open position to the closed position. In some embodiments, the repositioning direction can be different from a first direction corresponding to moving the pull from the open position to the closed position, different from another direction corresponding to moving the pull from the closed position to the open position, or different from both the first direction and the another direction.

[0084] The repositioning component can be coupled to the heating element, the cartridge, or both the heating element and the cartridge. A repositioning component coupled to the heating element can be described as a heating element repositioning component. A repositioning component coupled to the cartridge can be described as a cartridge repositioning component.

[0085] The repositioning component can be configured to move the heating element, the cartridge, or both the heating element and the cartridge.

[0086] In some embodiments, the repositioning assembly can move at least one of the heating element and the cartridge in the repositioning direction to bring the heating element and the cartridge into contact or to reduce the distance between the heating element and the cartridge. The repositioning assembly can move at least one of the heating element and the cartridge in response to movement of the pull. In some embodiments, the repositioning assembly can position the heating element into contact with or into proximity of the cartridge, position the cartridge into contact with or into proximity of the heating element, or position both the heating element and the cartridge into contact or into proximity of each other. For example, the repositioning assembly can be configured to move the heating element into contact with or into proximity of the cartridge in a heating position in response to the pull moving from the open position to the closed position. The repositioning assembly can be biased, e.g., using a spring, to move the heating element and the cartridge away from each other in response to the pull moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0087] In some embodiments, the repositioning assembly can be configured to rotate the heating element into contact with or into proximity of the cartridge, linearly translate the heating element into contact with or into proximity of the cartridge, or both rotate and linearly translate the heating element, which can bring the heating element into contact with or into proximity of the cartridge.

[0088] The repositioning assembly can use mechanical motion of the pull to power movement of the heating element or use sensor data to initiate movement of the heating element. In other words, repositioning can utilize a mechanical mechanism to convert mechanical power from opening or closing the pull to initiate or power movement of the heating element, cartridge, or both the heating element and cartridge in the repositioning direction.

[0089] In some embodiments, the repositioning assembly can include a first arm positioned in the path of the pull, a second arm coupled to the heating element, and a pivot joint, which can be described as a shaft, coupled to the housing between the first arm and the second arm. The pull can push the first arm to rotate the second arm about the pivot joint when moving from the open position to the closed position, which can move the heating element toward the cartridge and into a heating position. The pivot joint can maintain the same or substantially the same angle between the first arm and the second arm. For example, the repositioning assembly can be biased using a spring such that when the pull moves from the closed position to the open position, the second arm rotates about the pivot joint to move the heating element away from the cartridge and into a non-heating position.

[0090] In some embodiments, the repositioning assembly can include a presence sensor configured to sense or capture a position of the puller, and a piston assembly configured to reposition the heating element in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. The presence sensor can include any suitable sensor, such as a laser sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, or a Hall effect sensor. Activation of the sensor can trigger the piston to push the heating element toward the cartridge and into the heating position. The piston assembly can include a pressure sensor to stop movement of the piston of the piston assembly in response to the heating element exerting a sufficient amount of pressure on the cartridge. In some embodiments, movement of the puller in the first direction toward the closed position can be described as lateral movement, while movement of the piston and heating element can be described as longitudinal movement.

[0091] In some embodiments, the repositioning assembly includes one or more gears. The puller can include a geared surface connected to a rotating shaft having a mating female gear. The shaft can have a threaded connection to a cantilevered arm connected to the heating element. Rotation of the shaft can be prevented, for example, by connecting the cantilevered arm to a fixed tube that passes through the cantilevered arm. Moving the puller from the open position to the closed position can rotate the shaft, which can cause the cantilevered arm and heating element coupled to the cantilevered arm to move closer to the cartridge. Moving the puller from the closed position to the open position can cause the cantilevered arm and heating element to move away from the cartridge. In some embodiments, movement of the puller in the first direction toward the closed position can be described as lateral movement, while movement of the cantilevered arm and heating element can be described as longitudinal movement.

[0092] In some embodiments, the repositioning assembly includes one or more selective spacing elements for use with a flexible heating element. The one or more selective spacing elements can be configured to allow the heating element to move to the heating position when the puller is in the closed position, and to move the heating element away from the cartridge when the puller is in the open position.

[0093] The repositioning assembly can include a platform. For example, the platform can extend into the cartridge receptacle to move the cartridge from the cartridge receptacle to a heated position when the drawer is moved from an open position to a closed position. The cartridge can be received into a drawer receptacle on the platform. For example, the platform can move the cartridge closer to a heating element when the heating element is positioned outside of the cartridge receptacle or even in a heating chamber outside of the drawer. The repositioning assembly can move the cartridge at least partially into the heating chamber when the drawer is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the cartridge can be moved vertically or up or down along a longitudinal axis to position the cartridge at least partially in the heating chamber. The repositioning assembly can include a fixed cam or guide ramp coupled to the housing, a track coupled to the platform and slidably coupled to the fixed cam, and a pivot joint coupled to the track and the drawer. Moving the drawer from the open position to the closed position can cause the track to slide along the fixed cam and move the platform toward the heating chamber. A first end of the track can slide down the fixed cam, which can create a lift at a second end of the track coupled to the platform.

[0094] The repositioning assembly can be operably coupled to control electronics. The control electronics can be used to initiate movement of the repositioning assembly.

[0095] An aerosol-generating device that can be or include a shisha device can include a cartridge receptacle for receiving a cartridge. The cartridge can be removably received into the cartridge receptacle. The aerosol-generating device can include a heating element configured to contact or be proximate to a body of the cartridge when the cartridge is received in the receptacle. In particular, the aerosol-generating device can be configured to move the cartridge relative to the heating element or move the heating element relative to the cartridge to bring the heating element into contact or proximity with the body of the cartridge.

[0096] The aerosol-generating device can include a drawer that defines the cartridge receptacle. The drawer can be opened or closed. In particular, the drawer can be moved between an open position and a closed position. The drawer can be moved in a first direction from the open position to the closed position. The drawer can be moved in another direction from the closed position to the open position.

[0097] The drawer can be formed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the drawer can be formed of a thermally insulating material.

[0098] The first direction can be different from a direction defined by a longitudinal axis along the aerosol-generating device. In some embodiments, the first direction can be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. Movement in the first direction can be described as movement along a lateral axis.

[0099] In some embodiments, the cartridge receptacle of the drawer can be configured to receive a cartridge in a second direction when the drawer is in the open position. The second direction can be different from the first direction. In some embodiments, the first direction can be orthogonal to the second direction.

[0100] The aerosol-generating device can allow the cartridge to be released from the cartridge-receiving portion of the puller. In some embodiments, the cartridge is optionally released from the cartridge-receiving portion in response to moving the puller from the closed position to the open position.

[0101] The interior shape of the cartridge-receiving portion can be complementary to the exterior shape of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge-receiving portion can have an interior that defines an asymmetric shape. One example of an asymmetric shape is a frustoconical shape. The asymmetric shape can facilitate a particular position or orientation of the cartridge when the cartridge is received in the cartridge-receiving portion.

[0102] In one example, the aerosol-generating device includes an aerosol-generating element that includes a cartridge-receiving portion, a heating element, an aerosol outlet, and an air inlet. The cartridge-receiving portion is configured to receive a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate according to the present disclosure.

[0103] The puller can include one or more lateral walls and a bottom wall. The puller can optionally include a top wall. The one or more lateral walls can include one or more side walls.

[0104] The puller can be movably coupled to a housing of the aerosol-generating device, and in particular to a housing of the aerosol-generating element. The housing can include a puller-receiving portion. The puller can be received in the puller-receiving portion of the housing.

[0105] The puller can be manually opened or closed. The opening and closing of the puller can also be assisted or at least partially automatically moved. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating device can include a motor. The motor can be described as a puller motor. The motor can be coupled to the puller and the housing. The motor can be configured to move the puller from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position. The motor can be operably coupled to control electronics. A user can engage a touch-sensitive interface, such as a manual button, or otherwise provide a user input to open or close the puller.

[0106] The aerosol-generating device can include a cooling system configured to cool the puller. The cooling system can be described as a puller cooling system. The cooling system can be an active cooling system that uses electrical power. In some embodiments, the cooling system can be activated when the heating element is not activated. The puller cooling system can include a fan, a heat sink, or both a fan and a heat sink.

[0107] The puller can include one or more selective spacing elements configured to allow the heating element to move to the heating position when the puller is in the closed position and to move the heating element away from the cartridge when the puller is in the open position. For example, the heating element can include a flexible material, and the flexible heating element can be biased to move to the heating position. The one or more selective spacing elements can allow the heating element to move to the heating position when the puller is moved to the closed position, and can move the heating element away from the cartridge when the puller is moved to the open position. In some embodiments, the one or more selective spacing elements can include a tapered end to facilitate movement of the one or more flexible heating elements.

[0108] The puller can include one or more open areas that can be formed in one or more walls of the puller. In some embodiments, at least one open area is formed in one or more lateral walls of the puller. The one or more open areas can be formed adjacent to or proximate to the one or more selective spacing elements. The one or more flexible heating elements can extend through the one or more open areas positioned adjacent to the selective spacing elements when the puller is in the closed position.

[0109] In one example, each of the at least two lateral walls of the puller includes a selective spacing element and an open area. The heating element includes a flexible heating element having two heating strips positioned on opposite sides of the cartridge. Each heating strip is configured to be moved by the selective spacing element as the puller is moved between the open position and the closed position. Each heating strip is configured to contact or approach the cartridge through the respective open area when the puller is in the closed position.

[0110] In some embodiments, one or more airflow apertures can be formed in the puller to allow air or aerosol to pass through. For example, the airflow apertures can allow aerosol to flow out of the cartridge receptacle.

[0111] The aerosol-generating device can further include a cartridge handling system. The cartridge handling system can be configured to eject the cartridge from the cartridge receptacle when the cartridge is released, and can be configured to receive the released cartridge in a container. In some embodiments, the cartridge can be dropped vertically for disposal when the puller is moved horizontally away or to the open position for loading of a new cartridge. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0112] Reference will now be made to the drawings, which depict one or more embodiments described in this disclosure. It should be understood, however, that other embodiments, not depicted in the drawings, fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Like numbers in the figures refer to like components. The use of different numbers in different figures is not intended to indicate that the components cannot be the same or similar. The drawings are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. The schematic diagrams presented in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0113] Figure 1A and 1B are schematic front and side cross-sectional views of a waterpipe device including a puller.

[0114] Figure 2A and 2B are schematic top and bottom perspective views of a body of a waterpipe tube for use in the waterpipe device of Figure 1 according to an embodiment.

[0115] Figure 3A and 3B is a schematic view of a first example of a waterpipe device having a first repositioning assembly.

[0116] Figure 4A and 4B is a schematic view of a second example of a waterpipe device having a second repositioning assembly.

[0117] Figure 5 is a schematic view of a third example of a waterpipe device having a third repositioning assembly.

[0118] Figure 6A and 6B is a schematic view of a fourth example of a waterpipe device having a fourth repositioning assembly.

[0119] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of one example of a heating element for use in the waterpipe device of Figure 6A and 6B .

[0120] Figure 8A and 8B is a schematic view of a fifth example of a waterpipe device having a fifth repositioning assembly configured to move the tube. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0121] Figure 1A and 1B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of an aerosol-generating device 100, such as a waterpipe device, including a puller 110. Figure 1A shows a front view, and Figure 1B shows a side view. The device 100 includes a container 17 defining an internal volume configured to hold a liquid 19 and defining a headspace outlet 15 above a fill level of the liquid 19. The liquid 19 preferably includes 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.

[0122] The device 100 also includes an aerosol-generating element 130 and a housing 120. A longitudinal axis 102 can be defined as extending between the housing 120 of the aerosol-generating element 130 and the container 17. The aerosol-generating element 130, including the housing 120, has a drawer receptacle 122. The drawer receptacle 122 is configured to receive the drawer 110.

[0123] The drawer 110 can include one or more side walls, a bottom wall, and optionally a top wall (see Figure 3A and 3B ). The drawer 110 includes a cartridge receptacle 140 configured to receive a cartridge 200 including an aerosol-forming substrate 202. The cartridge 200 is receivable into the cartridge receptacle 140 of the drawer 110 in a second direction 118. The drawer 110 is movable in a first direction 116, shown by the arrow, from an open position 112 to a closed position 114. The cartridge 200 is releasable from the cartridge receptacle 140 in response to the drawer 110 moving from the closed position 114 to the open position 112.

[0124] The exterior of the body of the cartridge 200 has an asymmetric shape. As shown, the cartridge 200 has a frustoconical shape. The interior of the cartridge receptacle 140 has a complementary asymmetric shape, such as a frustoconical shape, to facilitate a particular position or orientation of the cartridge 200 when received within the cartridge receptacle.

[0125] The aerosol-generating element 130 also includes a heating element 160. The aerosol-generating element 130 also includes an air inlet passage 170 that draws air into the device 100. The heating element 160 is activatable in response to a user input or in response to sensor data. The heating element 160 is movable from a non-heating position to a heating position by a repositioning assembly (see Figures 3A-8B ). The repositioning assembly can use mechanical movement of the drawer 110 to power the movement of the heating element 160, or can use sensor data to initiate the movement of the heating element.

[0126] In some embodiments, a portion of the air inlet passage 170 is formed by the heating element 160 to heat air before it enters the cartridge receptacle 140. The pre-heated air then enters the cartridge 200 (which is also heated by the heating element 160) to carry aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming agent and the aerosol-forming substrate. The air exits the aerosol-generating element 130 at an outlet and enters the conduit 190.

[0127] The conduit 190 carries 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 exit the headspace outlet 15 of the container 17. The hose 20 can be attached to the headspace outlet 15 to carry the aerosol to the user's mouth. The mouthpiece 25 can be attached to the hose 20 or formed as part of the hose. In use, an example air flow path of the device is indicated by the bold arrows in Figure 1A .

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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 1A The control electronics 30 can include a motor that is operably coupled to the puller 110 to move the puller relative to the housing 120. The control electronics 30 can include a cooling system configured to cool the puller.

[0130] Referring now to Figure 2A and Figure 2B , various embodiments of the body 210 of the cartridge 200 are shown. The body 210 can include a lateral wall 212, a top wall 215, and a bottom wall 213 that define a cavity 218. As shown, the lateral wall 212 can be cylindrical or frustoconical. Figure 2A The body 210 is shown without the top wall 215, showing the cavity 218 inside the body. The body 210 can define a central axis A that extends through the body 210. As shown in Figure 2B The top portion can include a flange 219 that extends from the lateral wall 212. The flange 219 can rest on a shoulder of a cartridge receptacle of an aerosol-generating device, such that the cartridge 200 can be easily removed from the receptacle by grasping the flange after use.

[0131] Figure 3A and 3B show a schematic cross-sectional side view of an example of an aerosol-generating device 300 including an aerosol-generating element 302. The aerosol-generating element 302 includes a housing 304, a puller 310, and a repositioning assembly 350. The repositioning assembly 350 is coupled to the heating element 160 and the housing 304. The cartridge 200 can be received into the puller 310.

[0132] The pull 310 includes one or more side walls 280, a bottom wall 282, and optionally a top wall 284. The side walls 280 can include one or more side walls, a front wall, and a back wall. As shown, the pull 310 includes one or more side walls 280 and a bottom wall 282.

[0133] The repositioning assembly 350 moves the heating element 160 in a repositioning direction 360 that is different from the first direction 116 used to move the pull 310 from the open position to the closed position. The repositioning assembly 350 rotates the heating element 160 into contact with or in proximity to the cartridge 200. The repositioning assembly 350 is configured to use mechanical motion of the pull 310 to power movement of the heating element 160.

[0134] The repositioning assembly 350 includes a first arm 352 positioned in the path of the pull 310, a second arm 354 coupled to the heating element, and a pivot joint 356 coupled to the housing 304 between the first arm and the second arm. As the pull 310 moves from the open position (see Figure 3A ) to the closed position (see Figure 3B ), the pull can push the first arm 352 to rotate the second arm 354 about the pivot joint 356, which can move the heating element 160 toward the cartridge 200 and into a heated position as seen in Figure 3B The pivot joint 356 can maintain the same or substantially the same angle between the first arm 352 and the second arm 354. For example, the repositioning assembly 350 can be spring biased such that when the pull 310 moves from the closed position to the open position, the second arm 354 rotates about the pivot joint 356 to move the heating element 160 away from the cartridge 200 and into an unheated position as shown in Figure 3A .

[0135] Figure 4A and 4B shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an example of an aerosol-generating device 400 including an aerosol-generating element 402. The aerosol-generating device 400 is similar to the aerosol-generating device 300 of Figure 3A and 3B except that the aerosol-generating device 400 includes a different repositioning assembly 450.

[0136] The repositioning assembly 450 includes a piston 452 and a presence sensor 454 configured to reposition the heating element 160. The presence sensor 454 can include any suitable sensor, such as a laser sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, or a Hall effect sensor. The repositioning assembly 450 moves the heating element 160 in a repositioning direction 460 that is different from the first direction 116 used to move the puller 410 from the open position to the closed position. As shown, the repositioning direction 460 is orthogonal to the first direction 116. The repositioning direction 460 along the piston 452 can be described as a longitudinal movement. The repositioning assembly 450 linearly translates the heating element 160 into contact with or proximity to the cartridge 200.

[0137] The presence sensor 454 is positioned to detect when the puller 410 is in the closed position (see Figure 4B ). Activation of the presence sensor 454 triggers the piston 452 to push the heating element 160 toward the cartridge 200 into a heating position in contact with or proximity to the cartridge 200. A pressure sensor can be operably coupled to the piston 452 to detect pressure placed on the cartridge 200 by the piston. Activation of the pressure sensor can stop movement of the piston 452.

[0138] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional side view of an example of an aerosol-generating device 500 including an aerosol-generating element 502 is shown. The aerosol-generating device 500 is similar to the aerosol-generating device 400 of Figure 4A and 4B except that the aerosol-generating device 500 includes a different repositioning assembly 550.

[0139] The repositioning assembly 550 includes one or more gears configured to reposition the heating element 160. The repositioning assembly 550 moves the heating element 160 in a repositioning direction 560 that is different from the first direction 116 used to move the puller 510 from the open position to the closed position. As shown, the repositioning direction 560 is orthogonal to the first direction 116.

[0140] The puller 510 includes a gear-like surface 552 that can engage or connect to a rotating shaft 554 of a mating female gear. Movement of the puller 510 in the first direction 116 causes the shaft 554 to rotate about an axis. The shaft 554 includes a threaded connection 556 with a cantilevered arm 558. The cantilevered arm 558 is connected to the heating element 160. The cantilevered arm 558 is prevented from rotating by a cantilevered connection to a fixed tube 562 that can extend through the cantilevered arm. Rotation of the shaft 554 due to movement of the puller 510 in the first direction 116 causes the cantilevered arm 558 to move in the repositioning direction 560 closer to the cartridge 200. Conversely, rotation of the shaft 554 due to movement of the puller 510 in the opposite direction from the closed position to the open position causes the cantilevered arm 558 to move away from the cartridge 200.

[0141] Figure 6A and 6B A schematic cross-sectional top view of an example of an aerosol-generating device 600 including an aerosol-generating element 602 is shown. The aerosol-generating element 602 includes a heating element 620. The heating element 620 is a flexible heating element. As shown, the heating element 620 includes two heating strips. The heating strips are biased toward the cartridge 200 to contact or approach the cartridge in the heated position.

[0142] The puller 610 includes two side walls 612. The repositioning assembly 650 includes two selective spacing elements 652 configured to move the heating element 620 away from the cartridge 200 when the puller 610 is moved from the closed position to the open position (see Figure 6A ). The selective spacing elements 652 can at least partially form the side walls 612 or can be coupled to the side walls. When the puller 610 is moved in the first direction 116 from the open position to the closed position, the heating element 620 is allowed to pass through an open area 654 in the side walls 612 and contact or approach the cartridge 200 (see Figure 6B ). For example, the heating element 620 moves inward in the repositioning direction 660 due to a spring-like bias of the heating strips. The selective spacing elements 652 have tapered ends to facilitate moving the heating strips away from the cartridge 200 or to allow the heating strips to move toward the cartridge.

[0143] Figure 7 A schematic exploded view of one example of one heating strip 622 of the heating element 620 is shown. The heating element 620 includes three layers of material. As shown, the heating element 620 includes a first high heat resistant layer 624, a heating layer 626, and a second high heat resistant layer 628. The heating layer 626 can be positioned between the first high heat resistant layer 624 and the second high heat resistant layer 628.

[0144] A first high heat resistance layer 624 is positioned on a side closer to the heating layer 626 of the cartridge. The material used to form the first high heat resistance layer 624 has a high thermal conductivity. The high heat resistance layer includes rigid or deflectable or spring-like portions to help bias or position the heating layer 626 in direct contact with the cartridge in a heating position of the heating element or in close proximity to the cartridge.

[0145] The heating layer 626 can be formed of thin wires of electrically resistive heating material, such as stainless steel wire. In some embodiments, the heating layer can include braided wire. The heating layer 626 is operably couplable to an electrical circuit and converts electrical power to heat.

[0146] A second high heat resistance layer 628 is positioned on a side of the heating layer 626 opposite the first high heat resistance layer 624. The material used to form the second high heat resistance layer 628 has a low thermal conductivity, or a lower thermal conductivity than the material of the first high heat resistance layer 624.

[0147] Figure 8A and 8B A schematic cross-sectional side view of one example of an aerosol-generating device 700 including an aerosol-generating element 702 is shown. The aerosol-generating device 700 is similar to the aerosol-generating device 300 of Figure 3A and 3B except that the aerosol-generating device 700 includes a different repositioning assembly 750.

[0148] The aerosol-generating element 702 includes a heating chamber 720 and a repositioning assembly 750. The repositioning assembly 750 includes a platform extendable into the cartridge receptacle of the drawer 710 to move the cartridge 200 into a heating position at least partially into the heating chamber 720 in response to the drawer moving in a first direction 116 from an open position to a closed position.

[0149] The repositioning assembly 750 also includes a fixed cam 754, a track 756 coupled to the platform 752, a pivot joint 758 coupled to the housing of the aerosol-generating element 702, and a slidable connection 760 between the fixed cam and the track. Moving the drawer 710 in the first direction 116 causes the slidable connection 760 to slide along the fixed cam 754. As an end of the track 756 coupled to the slidable connection 760 lowers, an opposite end coupled to the platform 752 raises in a repositioning direction 762. The platform 752 raises the cartridge 200 at least partially into the heating chamber 720 (see Figure 8B ). The heating element 160 is positioned in the heating chamber 720.

[0150] Thus, a cartridge insertion system for an aerosol-generating device is described. Various modifications and changes to the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes of carrying out the invention that are obvious to those skilled in mechanical, chemical, and aerosol-generating article manufacturing or related fields are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing comprising a drawer receptacle; a drawer movably coupled to the housing and receivable in the drawer receptacle, the drawer defining a cartridge receptacle to removably receive a cartridge comprising aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the drawer is movable in a first direction between an open position and a closed position; and a heating element configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate in a cartridge when the cartridge is received within the cartridge receptacle and the drawer is in the closed position, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to move at least one of the heating element and the cartridge received in the cartridge receptacle in a repositioning direction to bring the heating element and the cartridge in proximity in response to moving the drawer from the open position to the closed position, wherein the repositioning direction is different from the first direction.

2. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge receptacle of the drawer is configured to receive the cartridge in a second direction when the drawer is in the open position, wherein the second direction is different from the first direction.

3. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device is defined to extend between the housing and a container defining a headspace, wherein the first direction is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

4. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to allow the cartridge to be released from the cartridge receptacle of the drawer in response to moving the drawer from the closed position to the open position.

5. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol-generating device further comprises a motor configured to move the drawer from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position.

6. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a repositioning assembly coupled to the heating element, the repositioning assembly configured to move the heating element to a heating position in response to the drawer moving from the open position to the closed position.

7. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 6, wherein the repositioning assembly is configured to: rotate the heating element into contact with or in proximity to the cartridge; or linearly translate the heating element into contact with or in proximity to the cartridge; or both rotate and linearly translate the heating element to bring the heating element into contact with or in proximity to the cartridge.

8. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the repositioning assembly uses mechanical movement of the drawer to power movement of the heating element or uses sensor data to initiate movement of the heating element.

9. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the repositioning assembly comprises one or more gears.

10. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the heating element comprises a flexible material, and the heating element is configured to move to a heating position in response to the puller moving from the open position to the closed position.

11. The aerosol-generating device of claim 10, wherein the puller comprises a selective spacing element configured to allow the heating element to move to the heating position when the puller is in the closed position, and to move the heating element away from the cartridge when the puller is in the open position.

12. The aerosol-generating device of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the heating element comprises a multi-layer heating strip comprising at least a heating layer and an insulating layer.

13. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein one or more airflow apertures are formed in at least one of the puller and the heating element.

14. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the aerosol-generating device is a hookah device, further comprising: a container having a liquid fill level, and defining a headspace above the liquid fill level; an aerosol conduit for transporting aerosol from the cartridge receptacle to below the liquid fill level in the container; and an outlet in communication with the headspace. ​

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