Aerosol supply system

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol supply system comprising: an aerosol supply device; and a charging unit for charging or powering the aerosol supply device, the charging unit having a cavity for receiving the aerosol supply device. The aerosol supply device and the charging unit are connectable by an attachment mechanism comprising: a first engagement member comprising at least one linear spring; and a second engagement member. The aerosol supply device includes one of a first engagement member and a second engagement member, and the charging unit includes the other of the first engagement member and the second engagement member; and wherein the first engagement member is configured, by movement of the first engagement member in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device, to snap-engage with the second engagement member when the aerosol supply device is inserted into the cavity and disengage from the second engagement member when the device is withdrawn from the cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an aerosol supply system and a method for generating aerosol. Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles (e.g., cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by producing products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are so-called "heat but not burn" products or tobacco heating devices or products that release compounds by heating but not burning a material. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] Aerosol supply systems covering the above devices or products are known. Common systems use a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by the user. Typically, the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide a different aerosol for inhalation. It is known to use a resistive heating system as a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium. Separately, it is known to use an induction heating system as a heater. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to one aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: an aerosol supply device; and a charging unit for charging or powering the aerosol supply device, the charging unit having a cavity for receiving the aerosol supply device. The aerosol supply device and the charging unit can be connected by an attachment mechanism, the attachment mechanism comprising: a first engagement member comprising at least one linear spring; and a second engagement member; wherein the aerosol supply device comprises one of the first engagement member and the second engagement member, and the charging unit comprises the other of the first engagement member and the second engagement member; and wherein the first engagement member is configured to snap-engage with the second engagement member when the aerosol supply device is inserted into the cavity, and to disengage with the second engagement member when the device is withdrawn from the cavity, both of which are achieved by movement of the first engagement member in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0005] The first engaging member may be provided on the charging unit, and the second engaging member may be provided on the aerosol supply device.

[0006] The first engaging member may be provided on the aerosol supply device, and the second engaging member may be provided on the charging unit.

[0007] The second engagement member may include one or more grooves or recesses.

[0008] The first engagement member may include a single linear spring. The second engagement member may include two or more grooves or recesses. The single linear spring may be configured to engage with the two or more grooves or recesses.

[0009] The first engagement member may include two or more linear springs. The two or more springs may be configured to engage with a single groove or recess. The two or more springs may be configured to engage with a single groove or recess provided on a single lug. The second engagement member may include corresponding grooves or recesses, and each of the two or more springs may be configured to engage with corresponding grooves or recesses.

[0010] The one or more linear springs may be made of any suitable material having the ability to bend and return to its original shape when a force is applied. The linear springs may be made of a metallic material such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, high carbon steel, nickel-based alloys, chromium-based alloys. The one or more linear springs may be made of a plastic material such as, but not limited to: fiber reinforced plastics, engineering thermoplastics such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, ABS, polystyrene, acetal, PEEK material (polyetheretherketone) and nylon. The one or more linear springs may be provided with a sleeve extending along at least a portion of the or each spring.

[0011] The charging unit may comprise one or more lugs at the distal end of the cavity.The aerosol supply device may comprise corresponding one or more receiving recesses for receiving the one or more lugs when the aerosol supply device is received in the cavity.

[0012] The second engagement member may be disposed on the one or more lugs.

[0013] The second engagement member may be disposed on an inner surface of the cavity of the charging unit. The second engagement member may include one or more grooves or recesses disposed on an inner surface of the cavity of the charging unit.

[0014] The first engagement member may be configured to snap engage with the second engagement member by movement in a direction toward the central axis of the cavity.

[0015] The first engagement member may be configured to snap engage with the second engagement member by movement in a direction away from the central axis of the cavity.

[0016] The first engagement member may be configured to snap engage with the second engagement member in a direction parallel to a central axis of the cavity.

[0017] The charging unit may include one or more first electrical connectors for connecting to the aerosol supply device. The aerosol supply device may also include one or more corresponding second electrical connectors for connecting to the charging unit. The charging unit may include two, three or four first electrical connectors. The aerosol supply device may include two, three or four second electrical connectors.

[0018] The one or more first electrical connectors are disposed at a distal end of the cavity of the charging unit.The one or more second electrical connectors may be disposed at a distal end of the aerosol supply device.

[0019] The first connector and the second connector may be spring pin type connectors and may be corresponding mating receiving portions or contact plates. The first connector and the second connector may be male and female USB connectors.

[0020] The cavity of the charging unit may have a cross-sectional profile corresponding to the profile of the aerosol supply device. The cavity of the charging unit may have a cross-sectional profile configured to allow the aerosol supply device to be inserted into the charging unit in a single orientation. The outer profile of the aerosol supply device may include an arcuate portion and a linear portion. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity provided in the charging unit may also include similar arcuate portions and linear portions. The cavity of the charging unit may have a length substantially equal to or slightly greater than the length of the aerosol supply device, such that substantially the entire length of the aerosol supply device is received in the cavity of the charging unit.

[0021] The cavity may further comprise a longitudinally extending opening.The first side of the aerosol supply device may be received in a longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit.

[0022] The aerosol supply system may also include an aerosol generating article.

[0023] The aerosol-generating article may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, a liquid or a semi-solid (eg a gel). The aerosol-generating material may contain an active substance and / or a flavouring agent.

[0024] The aerosol-generating article may be in the form of a stick. The aerosol-generating article may be a rod-shaped article. The aerosol-generating article may have a non-circular cross-section, such as but not limited to oval, rectangular, trapezoidal. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially flat.

[0025] The aerosol supply device may include a heating chamber in which a heating element is arranged. The heater element may include at least one heater coil. The heating element may include a single coil. The coil may have a constant pitch. The coil may have a variable pitch, wherein a central portion of the coil has fewer windings per unit length than two end portions. The heating element may include two or more coils. The coil may be a spiral coil.

[0026] The heating element may be a resistive heating element. The heater may be a resistive heater. The heating element may be a resistive heating element. The heating element may be a resistive heating coil.

[0027] The heating element may be an induction heating element.

[0028] The heater may be an induction heating heater. The heating element may be an induction heating element. The coil may be an induction coil.

[0029] The aerosol supply device may include a power supply, a controller and a heating chamber in which the aerosol generating article is removably received. The power supply may be aligned along a longitudinal axis of the heating chamber. The power supply may be aligned along a second longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber.

[0030] The charging unit may be configured for wireless charging. The charging unit may be provided with a charging port, such as a USB port, for connecting a power source provided in the charging unit to an external power source for recharging.

[0031] The charging unit may include a control unit configured to control power transmission from the charging unit to the aerosol supply device when the device electrical connector is electrically engaged with the charging unit electrical connector. The control unit may be configured to control data transmission from the charging unit to the aerosol supply device and / or from the aerosol supply device to the charging unit.

[0032] The charging unit may have a transverse cross-section of any suitable shape. For example, the charging unit may have a substantially circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rhombus, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal transverse cross-section.

[0033] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of generating an aerosol, comprising: providing an aerosol generating system as described above; inserting an aerosol generating article into an aerosol supply device and providing power to the aerosol generating article. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Various embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol supply system including an aerosol supply device located within a charging unit;

[0036] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol supply device;

[0037] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol supply device and an aerosol generating article of an aerosol supply system;

[0038] Figure 4 It shows that Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a heater for use in an aerosol supply system;

[0039] Figure 5a , Figure 5b and Figure 5c An embodiment of an aerosol supply device is shown, and Figure 5d A view showing an embodiment of a corresponding charging unit;

[0040] Figure 5e and Figure 5f An embodiment of components of a charging unit is shown;

[0041] Figure 6a and Figure 6b Shows Figure 5a to Figure 5e Aerosol supply system;

[0042] Figure 7a , Figure 7b , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 9a and Figure 9b are schematic cross-sectional views of other embodiments of attachment mechanisms. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which component aerosol generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or components thereof) do not burn or ignite in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0044] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, for example, an electrically powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0045] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not required.

[0046] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an aerosol generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0047] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that uses a combination of aerosol generating materials to generate an aerosol, wherein one or more of the aerosol generating materials can be heated. Each aerosol generating material can be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material can include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0048] Generally, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0049] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include an area for receiving a consumable product, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0050] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transmission component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a shell, packaging material, a filter, a mouthpiece and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0051] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" is a material that is capable of generating an aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or stimulated in any other way. The aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or semi-solid (e.g., a gel), which may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavoring agent.

[0052] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavouring agents, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0053] The aerosol generating material can include a binder (e.g., a gelling agent) and an aerosol forming agent. Optionally, there may also be material to be delivered and / or filler. Optionally, there may also be a solvent (e.g., water) and one or more other components of the aerosol generating material may or may not be dissolved in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0054] The aerosol generating material may include an aerosol generating film or the form of an aerosol generating film. The aerosol generating film may include an adhesive (e.g., a gelling agent) and an aerosol forming agent. Optionally, there may also be material to be delivered and / or filler. The aerosol generating film may be substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0055] The aerosol-generating film may have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness may be in the range of about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.

[0056] The aerosol-generating film may be continuous. For example, the film may comprise or be in the form of a continuous sheet of material. The sheet may be in the form of a packaging material, which may be gathered to form a gathered sheet or which may be shredded to form shredded material. The shredded material may comprise one or more strands or one or more strips of aerosol-generating material.

[0057] The aerosol-generating film may be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol-generating film may include one or more discrete portions or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as dots, strips or lines, which may be supported on a support. In such an embodiment, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0058] The aerosol supply device may receive an article comprising an aerosol generating material for heating. In this context, an "article" is a component comprising or containing an aerosol generating material that is heated in use to volatilize the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into or onto the aerosol supply device before heating the article to generate an aerosol, which the user then inhales. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size, configured to be placed in or above such a heater, which is sized to receive the article.

[0059] An aerosol generator is a device configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to thermal energy so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol.

[0060] A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of an aerosol generating material, some or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. A consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transmission component, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol modifier. A consumable may also include an aerosol generator (e.g., a heater) that emits heat during use to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material. The heater may, for example, include a combustible material, a material that can be heated by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0061] Figure 1 There is shown an aerosol supply system 10 comprising an aerosol supply device 100 and a charging unit 20. The device 100 is shown located within a cavity 21 of the charging unit 20. The cavity 21 has an open end 22 (also referred to as an opening). Figure 1 The charging unit embodiment also includes a longitudinal opening 23 .

[0062] The aerosol supply device 100 is arranged to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating article (not shown) which, in use, may be inserted into the aerosol supply device 100. In an embodiment, the article forms part of the aerosol supply system 10.

[0063] The aerosol supply device 100 is an elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply device 100 has: a proximal end 100a, which will be closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when used by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply device 100; and a distal end 100b, which will be farthest from the user when in use. The proximal end may also be referred to as a "mouth end". The aerosol supply device 100 also defines a proximal direction accordingly, which is oriented toward the user when in use. In addition, the aerosol supply device 100 also similarly defines a distal direction, which is oriented away from the user when in use. The terms proximal and distal applied to features of the device 100 will be described with reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis. The aerosol supply device 100 includes an opening at the proximal end 100a, which leads to a heating chamber (hereinafter referred to as a distal end). Figure 2 describe).

[0064] The aerosol supply device 100 can be removably inserted into the charging unit 20 to be charged. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the distal end 100 b of the aerosol supply device 100 is inserted into the cavity 21 through the opening 22 .

[0065] A portion of the aerosol supply device 100 may include a first side 101. One or more user operable control elements 106 (eg buttons) that may be used to operate the aerosol supply device 100 may be provided on the first side 101 of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0066] In an embodiment, the cavity of the charging unit 20 may have a cross-sectional profile that only allows the aerosol supply device 100 to be inserted into the charging unit 20 in a single orientation.

[0067] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the outer contour of the aerosol supply device 100 includes a first portion and a second portion (see Figure 5a ). The cross-sectional profile of the cavity 21 provided in the charging unit 20 includes similar first and second portions. The second portion of the cross-sectional profile of the cavity 21 corresponds to the longitudinal opening 23, and the first side 101 of the device 100 is aligned with the longitudinal opening 23 and received therein. The first side 100 has a width W corresponding to the width of the longitudinal opening 23. This ensures proper alignment of the device 101 in the charging unit 20. In addition, when the device 101 is in the charging unit 20, the user can access the user control 106.

[0068] In other embodiments, the aerosol supply device may have alternative shapes and sizes and be received in a correspondingly shaped and sized cavity in the charging unit.

[0069] In other embodiments, the charging unit may include a single opening through which the device is inserted into the cavity.

[0070] The charging unit 20 includes a slidable cover 25. When the aerosol supply device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 20 to be charged, the slidable cover 25 may be closed so as to cover an opening to the aerosol supply device 100.

[0071] In other embodiments, the charging unit 20 may have an alternative cover configuration, such as a hinged or pivoting cover, or may not be provided.

[0072] The cavity 21 of the charging unit has a length substantially equal to or slightly greater than the length of the aerosol supply device 100 so that substantially the entire aerosol supply device 100 is received in the cavity of the charging unit. This means that the device 100 is completely enclosed within the cavity 21 and protected.

[0073] The charging unit 20 may include a user interface, such as a display 28, which may be located in any convenient location, such as on a Figure 1 Position shown.

[0074] Figure 2A cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol supply device 100 is shown. The aerosol supply device 100 comprises a main housing 200. The main housing 200 defines a device body of the device 100. The device 100 defines a heating chamber 201. A housing 205 defines the heating chamber 201. An opening 203 is arranged to provide access to the heating chamber 201. The housing 205 comprises a wall arrangement comprising a housing sidewall 205a and a housing base 205b. The base 205b is located at a distal end of the housing 205. The heating region 201a is configured to heat at least a portion of the article.

[0075] The heating device 300 is disposed in a portion of the main housing 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating device 300 is a heater 301 extending or protruding into the heating chamber 201. The heater 301 may include a base portion 301a, which may be located in a recess disposed in a portion of the body of the device 100. The heater 301 stands upright in the heating chamber 201. The heater 301 stands upright from the distal end.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the heater 301 comprises an elongated heating member in the form of a pin. In other embodiments, the heater 301 comprises other elongated configurations, such as blades.

[0077] The heater 301 may be inserted into an aerosol generating article 50 received in the heating chamber 201 (see Figure 3 ) in the distal end of the aerosol-generating article so as to internally heat the aerosol-generating article.

[0078] The housing comprises a housing wall 200a. The housing wall 200a extends around the heating chamber 201 along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. The housing wall 200a can at least partially define the receiving chamber of the aerosol supply device 100 as a volume enclosed in the wall 200a. The housing base 200b is located at the distal end of the housing wall 200a. In the illustrated embodiment, the heater 301 stands upright from the housing base 200b. The heater 301 extends through the receiving portion base 205b. An orifice 206 is formed in the receiving portion base 205b, through which the heater 301 extends. In an embodiment, the heater 301 is mounted to the receiving portion base 205b. The heater 301 stands upright from the receiving portion base 205b.

[0079] The aerosol supply device 100 further comprises a removal mechanism 204 which may be removably retained to the main housing 200 of the aerosol supply device 100. In the embodiment shown, the removal mechanism 204 defines the heating chamber 201. The removal mechanism 204 forms a receiving portion 205.

[0080] In other embodiments, the removal mechanism 204 is omitted, and other features of the device 100 define the heating chamber 201, such as the housing sidewalls 200a and the housing base 200b.

[0081] The aerosol-generating article 50 may contact both the longitudinally extending portion of the inner surface and the end portion of the inner surface when it is received in the heating chamber 201. In particular, the product chamber (i.e., the peripheral portion 207a and the base portion 207b) may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 50 in the form of a longitudinally extending and cylindrical rod such that the longitudinal axis of the article is parallel to (and optionally co-linear with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 when received in the product chamber.

[0082] When the removal mechanism 204 is held to the main housing 200 in use, the product chamber of the removal mechanism 204 is at least partially arranged within the heating chamber 201. Thus, the removal mechanism 204 is configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating product in use. In an embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 may include a first magnet or magnetizable material 208. The main housing 200 may include a second magnet or magnetizable material 209.

[0083] The removal mechanism 204 may include internal elements (including a tubular portion 207a and a base portion 207b) and an outer cap portion 210, wherein, when retained to the main housing 200, the outer cap portion 210 encapsulates (e.g., covers) at least a portion of the main housing 200, such as the wall 200a of the main housing.

[0084] The heater 301 comprises an elongated heater 301 in the form of a spike. In other embodiments, the heater 301 comprises other elongated configurations, such as a blade, and it will be appreciated that the heater 301 may have a variety of cross-sectional shapes.

[0085] The heater 301 is disposed in the heating chamber 201. The heater 301 of FIG. 5 and the Figures 1 to 3 The heater 301 is described so that the details described herein can apply to each heater. The heater 301 extends or protrudes into the heating chamber 201.

[0086] The heater 301 may, in use, be inserted into the distal end of an aerosol-generating article 50 received within the heating chamber 201 so as to heat the aerosol-generating article 50 internally.

[0087] Figure 4An embodiment of a resistive heater 301 for use in an aerosol supply device as described above is shown. In this arrangement, the heating assembly includes a resistive heating generator that includes a component that heats a heating element via a resistive heating process. In this case, current is applied directly to the resistive heating element, and the current flow generated in the heating element used as the heating component causes the heating element to be heated by Joule heating. The resistive heating element includes a resistive material that is configured to generate heat when a suitable current is passed through it, and the heating device includes electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistive material. In an embodiment, the heating element forms at least a portion of the resistive heating component itself.

[0088] exist Figure 4 In an embodiment, the heater 301 includes an elongated housing 302 and a heating element 350. The elongated housing 302 is an elongated member defining a longitudinal axis. The housing 302 is formed of a thermally conductive material (e.g., aluminum). Other suitable materials, such as stainless steel, may be used. The elongated housing 302 may include a coating on its outer surface. The elongated housing 302 is configured to transfer heat from the heating element 350 to the heating region 201a within the aerosol supply device.

[0089] The elongated housing 302 has a base end 303 and a free end 304. The base end 304 is mounted to the device body. A mounting member 305 at the base end 303 is mounted to the heater 301.

[0090] The elongated housing 302 includes a housing body 306. The housing body 306 is tubular. In other embodiments, the housing body 306 can have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as but not limited to circular, elliptical, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal. The housing body 306 includes a hole 307 that defines an internal void (or cavity) 308 of the heater 301. The internal void 308 extends longitudinally. An inner surface 309 is defined on the inner side of the elongated housing 302. An open end 310 leading to the internal void 308 is provided at the base end 303.

[0091] The free end 304 of the elongated housing 302 extends toward the proximal end of the heating chamber. The free end 304 of the heater 301 is closed, in other words, the internal void 308 does not extend through the free end 304. The end 311 is disposed at the free end 304. The end 311 extends to an apex 312. Other shapes and configurations of the end 311 may be provided, for example, the end 311 may define a planar surface.

[0092] The heating element 350 is located within the elongated housing 302 of the heater 301. The heating element 350 extends in the longitudinal direction within the elongated housing 302 and has a base end 350a and a free end 350b. In FIG6 , the heating element 350 extends between the base end 303 and the free end 304. In some embodiments, the heating element extends partially along the length of the internal void 308. In some embodiments, the heating element 350 extends to or beyond the open end 310.

[0093] In this embodiment, the heating coil 351 is a resistive heating coil. The heating coil 351 is a spiral coil. The heating coil can have any suitable cross-sectional profile, such as a rectangular cross-sectional profile, a circular cross-sectional profile, or an elliptical cross-sectional profile. The heating device 300 includes electrical connection paths 352, 353. The electrical connection paths extend from each end of the heating element 350.

[0094] In other embodiments, the heating device 300 may include two or more heating coils.

[0095] Figure 5a to Figure 5d An embodiment of an attachment mechanism 11 is shown for connecting the aerosol supply device 100 within the charging unit 20. The attachment mechanism 11 comprises a first engagement member and a second engagement member.

[0096] Figure 5a 1 and 2. It shows a view from the distal end 100b of the above-mentioned aerosol supply device 100. It can be seen that the outer contour of the aerosol supply device 100 includes a first portion 111A and a second portion 111B.

[0097] The aerosol supply device 100 comprises a substrate 120 at the distal end 100b. Two openings 122 are provided in the substrate 120. The openings 122 lead to a recess or void 124 extending into the distal portion 102 of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0098] In this embodiment, the first engagement member 150 is in the form of a wire spring 150. Two sections 155 of the wire spring 150 extend across the radially outer edge of the opening 122.

[0099] Four electrical connectors 130 are provided for connecting the aerosol supply device 100 to the charging unit 20. At least a portion of the device electrical connector 130 may form an electrical contact for contacting a corresponding electrical connector ( Figure 5c at least a portion of the device.

[0100] Figure 5b1 is a schematic diagram of the distal end 100b of the aerosol supply device 100, wherein the substrate 120 is translucent so that the wire spring 150 can be seen. The spring 150 is retained within the device 100 in a rest position. Figure 5b In the embodiment of the present invention, the ends of the wire spring 151 are fixed in the base plate 120. It can be seen that two segments 155 of the wire spring extend across the opening 122, so that when a force is applied in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the device, each segment 155 is deformed from its rest position in this direction, as shown by arrows D. The geometry of the rest of the wire spring 150 is determined by other components in the distal end 100b of the device.

[0101] Figure 5c Shows Figure 5b The linear spring 150 is provided with two elongated covers 156 on the segment 155. The covers 156 may provide an aesthetic function. In other embodiments, no covers are provided.

[0102] Figure 5d Shown for use with Figure 5a and Figure 5b FIG. 2 is a view of a lower portion 21 of a charging unit 20 used together with an aerosol supply device 100 .

[0103] In this embodiment, the second engagement member 40 includes two lugs 40 extending from the distal end 21b of the charging unit cavity 21. Each lug 40 includes a groove 42 on a radially outer surface 40a. The lugs 40 are sized to fit through the opening 122 and within the recess 124 when the device 100 is fully inserted into the charging unit.

[0104] Four electrical connectors 30 are provided at the distal end 23 b for connection to the aerosol supply device 100 .

[0105] The charging unit 20 comprises a battery pack (not shown) which can be used to charge the aerosol supply device 100 via the connection formed between the electrical connectors 30 , 130 .

[0106] The charging unit 20 comprises a control unit (not shown) configured to control power transmission from the charging unit to the aerosol supply device. The control unit may also be configured to control data transmission from the charging unit to the aerosol supply device and / or from the aerosol supply device to the charging unit.

[0107] In this embodiment, there are two kidney-shaped (or bean-shaped) openings 122 with radial outer surfaces 40a that follow a circumferential path. The two lugs 40 have a corresponding profile and are slightly smaller than the openings to allow the lugs to fit into the voids 124.

[0108] Figure 5e and Figure 5fAn embodiment of a cavity distal end plate 24 that can be used, for example, in the charging unit described above is shown. The end plate 24 forms the distal end 21b of the cavity 21. Two lugs 40 extend from the end plate 24. In other embodiments, no separate end plate is provided and the lugs are provided as an integral part of the cavity end wall.

[0109] It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, different numbers of openings and lugs may be provided, and that the opening(s) and lug(s) may have any suitable shape, which will vary depending on the cross-sectional shape of the device and the configuration of internal components within the device.

[0110] Figure 5a to Figure 5d The embodiment of the invention comprises four electrical connectors 30, 130. However, it will be appreciated that the aerosol supply device 100 and the charging unit may comprise any suitable number of electrical connectors 30, 130.

[0111] At least a portion of one or more device electrical connectors 130 may form an electrical contact for contacting at least a portion of a corresponding electrical connector of one or more charging unit electrical connectors 30 in the charging unit 20. When the aerosol supply device 100 is secured to the charging unit 20, the set of electrical connectors 30, 130 together facilitate a power and / or data connection between the aerosol supply device 100 and the charging unit 20.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the first electrical connector can be used to transfer power from the charging unit 20 to the aerosol supply device 100, the second electrical connector can be used for grounding purposes, and the remaining electrical connectors can be used for data transmission. For example, there can be a single electrical contact for data transmission, or there can be two or more electrical contacts for data transmission.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the charging unit electrical connector 30 is a pogo pin connector. As will be appreciated, a pogo pin connector is an electrical connector that includes an integrated spring within the pin that is configured to apply a constant normal force to the back of a mating receptacle or contact plate, which counteracts any undesired movement that might otherwise cause an intermittent connection.

[0114] In other embodiments, the device electrical connector 130 includes a female USB-C connector, and the charging unit 20 may include an electrical connector that includes a corresponding male USB-C connector. Other embodiments are envisioned in which the aerosol supply device 100 may include a male USB-C connector, and the charging unit 20 may include a female USB-C connector.

[0115] Figure 6aA cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol supply device 100 according to an embodiment is shown partially inserted into the cavity 21 of the charging unit 20. The device 100 is inserted through the opening 22 and pushed in the direction A.

[0116] The device 100 is aligned with the cavity 20 such that the first side 101 is located in the longitudinal opening 23. The lug 40 in the cavity 20 is positioned to align with the opening 122 in the bottom plate 120 of the device.

[0117] It will be appreciated that when the device 100 is pushed toward the distal end 21 b of the cavity 20, the lug 40 passes through the opening 122 with the outer surface 40 a facing the wire-like spring 150. As the device 100 moves further, the wire-like spring segment 155 moves past the lug 40, deforms, and moves in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device away from the contact surface 40 b (or outer surface) of the lug 40. In other words, the wire-like spring portion 155 moves in a direction P perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and away from the axis A. When the device 100 is moved to its fully inserted position, the segment 155 moves back to its original position, and the device 100 is securely held within the cavity 20. Figure 6b A cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply system 10 is shown with the device 100 fully inserted into the charging unit 20. The wire-like spring segment 155 engages in the groove 42 of the lug 40.

[0118] To remove the device 100 , the user pulls the device 100 in the opposite direction and the spring segment 155 is pushed in the direction P by the outer surface 40 a of the lug 40 as it moves past the lug.

[0119] Page 7 of the drawings shows a further embodiment of an attachment mechanism for an aerosol supply system.

[0120] Figure 7a An embodiment of the attachment mechanism 11 is shown, which comprises a first engagement member 150 in the form of a wire spring 150 disposed in an outer groove at the distal end 100b of the device 100. The second engagement member 40 comprises two protrusions 40 formed on the inner surface 21c of the cavity 21 of the charging unit 20. The lugs are spaced apart from the distal end 21b of the cavity, thereby forming two recesses 42.

[0121] Two electrical connectors 130 are provided on the device 100 and two electrical connectors 30 are provided in the cavity 21. In this embodiment, when the device 100 is pushed into the fully inserted position, the wire spring 150 is pushed in the direction R away from the contact surface 40b of the protrusion, i.e. perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and towards the axis A.

[0122] Figure 7b The device 100 is shown fully inserted and secured within the charging unit 10. The wire spring 150 is positioned within the recess 42.

[0123] Figure 8a An embodiment of the attachment mechanism 11 is shown, which comprises a first engagement member 150 in the form of a linear spring 150 arranged in the distal end 100b of the device 100. Two openings 122 lead to the void 124, and the linear spring 150 extends across the inner edge of the opening 122. The distal end 21b of the cavity is provided with a second engagement member 40 in the form of two lugs 40, each lug comprising a groove 42 on the inner surface 40b. In this embodiment, when the device 100 is pushed into the fully inserted position, the linear spring 150 is pushed along the contact surface 40a away from the lug in the direction R, i.e. perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and towards the axis A. Figure 8b The device 100 is shown fully inserted and secured within the charging unit 10. The wire spring 150 is positioned in the recess 42.

[0124] Figure 9a An embodiment of the attachment mechanism 11 is shown, which comprises a first engagement member 150 in the form of a wire spring 150 disposed in the distal end 21b of the charging unit cavity 21. A second engagement member 40 is disposed on the device 10. Two lugs 40 are disposed at the outer periphery of the distal end 100b of the device. The lugs comprise an inwardly facing recess 42.

[0125] In this embodiment, a single electrical connector 130 is provided on the device 100, and a single electrical connector 30 is provided within the cavity 21. This may represent a USB electrical connection.

[0126] When the device 100 is pushed into the fully inserted position, the wire spring 150 is pushed in the direction R away from the contact surface 40b of the lug, ie perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device and towards the axis A. Figure 9b The device 100 is shown fully inserted and secured within the charging unit 10. The wire spring 150 is positioned in the recess 42.

[0127] In the above-described embodiment, the second engagement member includes two lugs. In other embodiments, the second engagement member may include one or more lugs. The second engagement member may include a single lug, which may have one or more grooves or recesses. The second engagement member may include one, three or four lugs.

[0128] In the above-described embodiments, the first engagement member comprises a single wire spring. In other embodiments, the first engagement member may comprise two or more wire springs.

[0129] In another embodiment (not shown), the device is provided with one or more lugs.

[0130] The first engagement member 40 and the second engagement member 150 may be used to ensure alignment of the charging unit electrical connector 30 and the device electrical connector 130 when the device is inserted into the charging unit.

[0131] Figure 9a An embodiment of the attachment mechanism 11 is shown which includes a first engagement member 150 in the form of a wire spring 150 disposed in the distal end 21 b of the charging unit cavity 21 .

[0132] In embodiments, the cavity 21 of the charging unit 20 and the aerosol supply device 100 may include corresponding grooves (eg, grooves on the inner surface of the cavity and grooves on the outer surface 107 of the aerosol supply device 100 ) to further ensure that self-guiding occurs.

[0133] It has been found that the attachment mechanism according to the above described embodiments ensures that the aerosol supply device is fixed within the cavity of the charging unit in a relatively secure and cost-effective manner.

[0134] The attachment mechanism according to embodiments is compact and occupies a relatively small volume within the aerosol supply device.

[0135] Furthermore, when a user inserts an aerosol supply device into a charging unit cavity according to embodiments of the present invention, the user receives tactile and audible indications of engagement to provide the user with assurance that the aerosol supply device is securely retained within the cavity.

[0136] In the above embodiments, the heating device is a resistive heating device. In embodiments, other types of heating devices are used, such as induction heating. The construction of the device is generally as described above, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0137] The induction heating device includes various components for heating the aerosol generating material of the article via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conductive heating member (e.g., a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating device may include an induction element, for example, one or more induction coils, and a device for passing a varying current (e.g., an alternating current) through the induction element. The varying current in the induction element generates a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor (heating member) appropriately positioned relative to the induction element. In induction heating, heat is generated within the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating, compared to, for example, heating by conduction. In addition, no physical contact is required between the induction element and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced freedom in structure and application.

[0138] In induction heating, heat is generated in a susceptor (heating member), whereas in resistance heating, heat is generated in a coil (heating element).

[0139] In an embodiment, the heating member of the aerosol supply system is part of the aerosol generating article rather than part of the aerosol supply device. The heating element may be a resistive heating element, for example in the form of a resistive coil as described above, which is provided as part of the aerosol generating article. The electrical connection may enable current to flow through the resistive heating element.

[0140] The various embodiments described herein are only used to help understand and teach the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of embodiments, and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention defined by the claims or limitations on the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments can be utilized and can be modified without departing from the scope of the invention claimed. Various embodiments of the present invention may appropriately include, contain or substantially contain appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc., except those specifically described herein. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply system, comprising: Aerosol supply device; as well as a charging unit for charging or powering the aerosol supply device, the charging unit having a cavity for receiving the aerosol supply device; The aerosol supply device and the charging unit can be connected by an attachment mechanism, The attachment mechanism comprises: a first engagement member comprising at least one linear spring; and a second engagement member; wherein the aerosol supply device includes one of the first engaging member and the second engaging member, and the charging unit includes the other of the first engaging member and the second engaging member; and Wherein, the first engaging member is configured to be snap-engaged with the second engaging member when the aerosol supply device is inserted into the cavity by moving the first engaging member in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device, and to be disengaged from the second engaging member when the device is withdrawn from the cavity.

2. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein: The first engaging member is provided on the charging unit, and the second engaging member is provided on the aerosol supply device.

3. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein: The first engaging member is provided on the aerosol supply device, and the second engaging member is provided on the charging unit.

4. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The second engagement member comprises one or more grooves or recesses.

5. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first engagement member comprises a single linear spring and the second engagement member comprises two or more grooves or recesses.

6. An aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The first engagement member comprises two or more linear springs and the second engagement member comprises corresponding grooves or recesses.

7. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The charging unit comprises one or more lugs at a distal end of the cavity, and the aerosol supply device comprises corresponding one or more receiving recesses for receiving the one or more lugs when the aerosol supply device is received in the cavity.

8. The aerosol supply system according to claim 7, wherein: The second engagement member is disposed on the one or more lugs.

9. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first engagement member is configured to snap engage with the second engagement member by moving in a direction toward a central axis of the cavity.

10. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first engagement member is configured to snap engage with the second engagement member by moving in a direction away from a central axis of the cavity.

11. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The aerosol supply device further comprises one or more first electrical connectors for connecting to the charging unit, and the charging unit comprises one or more second electrical connectors.

12. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The one or more first electrical connectors are disposed at a distal end of the aerosol supply device.

13. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein: The cavity of the charging unit has a cross-sectional profile corresponding to a profile of the aerosol supply device.

14. An aerosol supply system according to any preceding claim, further comprising an aerosol generating article.

15. A method for generating an aerosol, comprising: Providing an aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 13; An aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol supply device and power is supplied to the aerosol-generating article.

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