Aerosol supply device

Abstract

An aerosol supply device is provided. The apparatus includes: a body having an opening; and a chamber in the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol-generating material inserted through the opening. The apparatus includes a cap assembly including a cap mechanism. The cover mechanism is arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening. The actuation mechanism is arranged to move the cover member between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. The present invention also relates to an aerosol supply system. Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles (e.g., cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco to produce tobacco smoke during use. Attempts have been made to provide substitutes for these tobacco-burning articles by making products that release compounds without burning. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating rather than burning material. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material is provided, the aerosol supply device comprising: a body defining an opening; a heating zone arranged to receive at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol generating material inserted through the opening; and a cover mechanism comprising: a cover member comprising a non-planar surface arranged to selectively at least partially cover a first opening; and an actuating member arranged to move relative to the body to actuate the cover member, wherein movement of the actuating member relative to the body causes the cover member to rotate between a relative open position and a relative closed position, in which the relative open position at least a portion of the article is able to pass through the opening, and in which the relative closed position at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening.

[0004] In any of the above embodiments, the non-planar face is curved.

[0005] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member includes a cover portion and at least one arm that spaces the cover portion apart from the rotation axis of the cover member.

[0006] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member's axis of rotation is transverse to a longitudinal axis defined by the heating zone.

[0007] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member's axis of rotation is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis defined by the heating zone.

[0008] In any of the above embodiments, the rotation axis of the cover member is transverse to the rotation axis of the actuation member.

[0009] In any of the above embodiments, the rotation axis of the cover member is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the actuation member.

[0010] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member is arranged to rotate about the longitudinal axis.

[0011] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member is arranged to rotate relative to the body to cause the cover member to rotate between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

[0012] In any of the above embodiments, the opening defines a plane, and the axis of rotation of the cover member is at least substantially parallel to the plane.

[0013] In any of the above embodiments, the rotation axis of the cover member is spaced apart from the plane.

[0014] In any of the above embodiments, the rotational axis of the cover member is spaced apart from the plane along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device.

[0015] In any of the above embodiments, the body includes a tubular wall defining the heating zone, and the tubular wall at least partially defines the opening, wherein the cover member is configured to cooperate with the tubular wall to at least partially close the opening.

[0016] In any of the above embodiments, the tubular wall comprises a chamfered or rounded edge for mating with the cover member.

[0017] In any of the above embodiments, the tubular wall is cylindrical.

[0018] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is pivotally attached to the body.

[0019] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member includes a part-spherical portion.

[0020] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is arranged to cooperate with the body to at least partially close the opening.

[0021] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member includes a part-spherical inner surface.

[0022] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is arranged to contact the body to at least partially close the opening.

[0023] In any of the above embodiments, a gap is defined between the cover member and the body.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is arranged to slide over the body to move between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is arranged to cooperate with the actuation member to at least partially close the actuation member opening.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member comprises an arcuate outer surface arranged to cooperate with a corresponding edge defined by the actuation member.

[0027] The curved outer surface may define a non-planar surface.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, the arcuate outer surface is partially spherical.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, the rim is partially spherical.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member is arranged to translate relative to the body to cause the cover member to rotate between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

[0031] In an embodiment of any of the above, the actuation member is arranged to translate substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member is configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol generating material inserted into the heating zone.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member defines an actuation member opening for receiving at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol-generating material inserted into the heating zone.

[0034] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member opening overlaps the opening.

[0035] In any of the above embodiments, the opening overlaps the heating zone.

[0036] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member defines a sheath arranged to at least partially house the cover member.

[0037] In any of the above embodiments, when the cover member is in the relatively open position, the actuating member and the body cooperate to close the cover member.

[0038] In any of the above embodiments, a gap is defined between the actuation member and the body, the cover member being arranged to move between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position through the gap.

[0039] In any of the above embodiments, the cover mechanism comprises an actuation mechanism acting between the cover member and the actuation member.

[0040] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation mechanism includes a gear mechanism between the cover member and the actuation member.

[0041] In any of the above embodiments, the gear mechanism includes a gear device adjacent the opening.

[0042] In any of the above embodiments, the gear mechanism comprises a bevel gear arrangement on a first side of the opening and a shaft on an opposing second side of the opening.

[0043] In any of the above embodiments, the gear arrangement comprises a bevel gear.

[0044] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member comprises a gear track for driving the gear arrangement.

[0045] In any of the above embodiments, the gear track is tapered.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation mechanism comprises a cam mechanism.

[0047] In any of the above embodiments, the body and the actuation member together define at least a portion of a housing of the device.

[0048] In any of the above embodiments, the actuation member is rotatably mounted to the body.

[0049] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims and an article comprising an aerosol generating material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 shows a schematic front view of an aerosol supply device;

[0052] Figure 2 Shown is a cover assembly having Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol supply device;

[0053] Figure 3 Shown in open position Figure 1 a schematic cross-sectional side perspective view of a portion of a cover assembly of an aerosol supply device;

[0054] Figure 4 The closed position is shown for Figure 1 a schematic cross-sectional side perspective view of a portion of a cover assembly of an aerosol supply device;

[0055] Figure 5 Shown for Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a portion of a cover mechanism of a cover assembly of an aerosol supply device;

[0056] Figure 6 The closed position is shown for Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of a cover assembly of an aerosol supply device;

[0057] Figure 7 Shown in open position Figure 1 a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of a cap assembly of an aerosol supply device; and

[0058] Figure 8 Shown for Figure 1 Schematic perspective view of a cover assembly of an aerosol supply device, wherein some components are shown in a transparent manner to illustrate hidden features. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating material" is a material that can generate an aerosol, for example, when heated, radiated, or stimulated in any other way. The aerosol generating material can be, for example, in the form of a solid, a liquid, or a gel, which may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavoring agent. The aerosol generating material can include any plant-based material, such as a tobacco-containing material, and can, for example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or a tobacco substitute. The aerosol generating material can also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine depending on the product. The aerosol generating material can, for example, be in the form of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax, etc. The aerosol generating material can, for example, also be a combination or blend of materials. The aerosol generating material can also be referred to as a "smokable material".

[0060] The aerosol generating material may include a binder and an aerosol forming agent. Optionally, an activating agent and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent may also be present, such as 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 some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0061] The aerosol generating material may include or may be an "amorphous solid". The amorphous solid may be a "monolithic solid". In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid (e.g., liquid) inside it. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may, for example, include from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% amorphous solid to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% amorphous solid.

[0062] The aerosol-generating material may comprise an aerosol-generating film.The aerosol-generating film may comprise or may be a sheet material, which may optionally be shredded to form shredded material.The aerosol-generating sheet material or shredded material may be substantially free of tobacco.

[0063] According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the constituent aerosol generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or components thereof) do not burn or ignite to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0064] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, for example, an electrically powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include an aerosol generating material and are configured for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles in the present disclosure.

[0070] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a non-flammable aerosol supply device thereof, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electrical power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source includes a carbon substrate that can be energized to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material near the exothermic power source.

[0071] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0072] 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 conveying component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a shell, a packaging material, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0073] The aerosol generating device may receive an article comprising an aerosol generating material for heating. In the present context, an "article" is a component that, in use, comprises or contains an aerosol generating material that is heated to volatilize the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol generating 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 within a heating chamber of the device, the heating chamber being sized to receive the article.

[0074] Figure 1 An aerosol supply device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material is shown. In summary, the device 100 can be used to heat a replaceable article 300 comprising an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium inhaled by a user of the device 100. The article 300 and the device 100 together form an aerosol supply system 10.

[0075] The device 100 includes a body 101. The body 101 includes a chamber 105, such as Figure 2 As shown. The housing 102 surrounds and contains various components of the body 101. An opening 103 is formed at one end of the body 101 and communicates with the chamber 105. The article 300 can be at least partially inserted into the chamber 105 through the opening 103 for use by the aerosol generator 150 (refer to Figure 2 In use, the article 300 may be heated by one or more components of the aerosol generator 150.

[0076] The device 100 further comprises a button assembly 200 which, when pressed, operates the device 100. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the button assembly 200. The button assembly 200 may be assembled as part of other components of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0077] The aerosol generator 150 defines a longitudinal axis X.

[0078] Figure 2A schematic cross-sectional view of device 100 is shown. Device 100 includes electrical components such as connector / port 160, which can receive a cable to charge device 100. For example, connector 160 can be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In some examples, connector 160 can additionally or alternatively be used to transfer data between device 100 and another device such as a computing device.

[0079] The device 100 includes a power source 170, such as a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically connected to the aerosol generator 150 to supply power to heat the aerosol generating material when needed and under the control of the controller.

[0080] The device 100 includes an electronic module 112. The electronic module 112 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may support at least one controller, such as a processor and a memory. The PCB may also include one or more electrical traces to electrically connect the various electronic components of the device 100 together. For example, a battery terminal may be electrically connected to the PCB so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100.

[0081] The body 101 defines the end of the device 100. The end of the device 100 closest to the opening 103 can be referred to as the proximal end (or mouth end) 104 of the device 100 because it is closest to the user's mouth in use. In use, the user inserts the article 300 into the opening 103, operates the aerosol generator 150 to begin heating the aerosol generating material, and draws the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along a flow path toward the proximal end of the device 100.

[0082] The other end of the device, farthest from the orifice 103, may be referred to as the distal end 106 of the device 100 because, in use, it is the end farthest from the user's mouth. When the user draws on the aerosol generated in the device 100, the aerosol flows in a direction toward the proximal end of the device 100. The terms proximal and distal applied to features of the device 100 will be described with reference to their relative positioning relative to each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis X.

[0083] As used herein, the term one-piece component refers to a component of the device 100 that is not separable into two or more components after assembly of the device 100. Integrally formed involves two or more features being formed as a one-piece component during the manufacturing phase of the component.

[0084] The airflow channel 180 extends through the body 101. The airflow channel 180 extends to the air inlet 190. Other airflow arrangements can be envisioned. For example, airflow can be provided between the container 107 defining the chamber 105 and the article 300.

[0085] In one example, the aerosol generator 150 includes an induction type heating system, which includes a magnetic field generator. The magnetic field generator includes an induction coil assembly. The aerosol generator 150 includes a heating element. The heating element is also called a susceptor.

[0086] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by being penetrated with a varying magnetic field (e.g., an alternating magnetic field). The susceptor can be a conductive material such that its penetration with a varying magnetic field results in inductive heating of the heated material. The heated material can be a magnetic material such that its penetration with a varying magnetic field results in hysteresis heating of the heated material. The susceptor can be conductive and magnetic such that the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. In this article, a device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator.

[0087] The aerosol generator 150 is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol generating material of the article 300 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductive object (e.g., a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may include an induction element (e.g., 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 appropriately positioned relative to the induction element and generates eddy currents within the susceptor. The susceptor has a resistance to the eddy currents, so the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Joule heating. In the case where the susceptor includes a ferromagnetic material (e.g., iron, nickel, or cobalt), heat may also be generated by hysteresis losses in the susceptor (i.e., by the changing orientation of the magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material due to their alignment with the changing magnetic field). In induction heating, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing rapid heating, compared to, for example, heating by conduction. In addition, no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor, allowing enhanced freedom in construction and application.

[0088] The inductor coil assembly includes an inductor coil. In an embodiment, the number of inductor coils is different. In an embodiment, two or more inductor coils are used. The inductor coil assembly also includes a coil support. The coil support is tubular.

[0089] The aerosol generator 150 may additionally or alternatively include other types of heating systems. In an embodiment, the aerosol generator includes a resistive heater type heating system.

[0090] The heating element is part of the heating assembly. The heating element of this example is hollow and thus defines at least a portion of the container 107 within which the aerosol generating material is received. For example, the article 300 can be inserted into the heating element. The heating element is tubular, having a circular cross-section. The heating element has a substantially constant diameter along its axial length.

[0091] In an embodiment, the heating assembly defines a container 107, and the heating element stands upright in the container 107. The heating element may include a pin or blade arranged to penetrate the consumable. In an embodiment, the consumable includes a heating element, and the aerosol supply device includes an induction coil arranged to inductively heat the heating element in the consumable.

[0092] The heating element is formed of an electrically conductive material suitable for heating by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor in this example is formed of carbon steel. It will be appreciated that other suitable materials may be used, for example ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel or cobalt.

[0093] In other embodiments, the features used as heating elements may not be limited to being inductively heated. Thus, the features used as heating elements may be resistively heatable. Thus, the aerosol generator 150 may include electrical contacts for electrically connecting to a device that electrically activates the heating element by passing electrical energy through the heating element.

[0094] The dimensions of the container 107 and the article 300 are designed so that the article 300 is received by the heating element. This helps ensure efficient heating. The article 300 of this example includes an aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material is positioned within the container 107. The article 300 may also include other components, such as at least one of a filter, a packaging material, and a cooling structure.

[0095] The airflow channel 180 extends from the container 107. The airflow channel 180 is located at the distal end. The airflow channel 180 extending from the container 107 is defined by a flow path member 182. The heating element 220 and the flow path member 182 form a part of the airflow path device 181.

[0096] The flow path member 182 extends between the heating element and the opening 190. The flow path member 182 is tubular. The flow path member 182 defines a bore. The flow path member 182 extends in an axial direction along its length.

[0097] The cover assembly 400 is configured to selectively cover the opening 103 and will be described in more detail below.

[0098] Figure 3 A cutaway cross-sectional view of a portion of the lid assembly 400 is shown in an open position. Figure 4A cutaway cross-sectional view of a portion of the lid assembly 400 is shown in a closed position. The lid assembly 400 may be Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol supply device 100 of the present invention is used together with the aerosol supply device 100 of the present invention and will be described with reference to the device. For the sake of clarity, some components of the device 100 are omitted. In some embodiments, the cap assembly 400 is used with other device arrangements.

[0099] The cap assembly 400 comprises a cap mechanism 410. The cap assembly 400 is located at the proximal end 104 of the device 100. The cap mechanism 410 comprises a body 402 defining an opening 103 of the device 100. A cap member 412 is arranged to selectively cover the opening 103.

[0100] Actuating mechanism 420 (reference Figure 5 ) is arranged to move the cover member 412 between a relatively open position, in which at least a portion of the article can pass through the opening 103, and a relatively closed position, in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening 103. The actuation member 422 is operable to actuate the cover mechanism 410.

[0101] The actuation member 422 overlaps the cover member 412, forming the exterior of the cover mechanism 410. The actuation member 422 is exposed to the exterior of the device 100 and is arranged to be manually actuated by a user.

[0102] In an embodiment, the body 402 is at least a portion of the body 101 of the aerosol supply device 100. In some embodiments, the body 402 includes a tubular wall 403, wherein the opening 103 is defined at the proximal end. The opening 103 is in communication with a heating zone 405. The heating zone 405 is arranged to receive at least a portion of an article (e.g., article 300) including an aerosol generating material inserted through the opening 103. The longitudinal axis X is defined by the central axis of the heating zone 405.

[0103] The cover member 412 includes a non-planar face 413. The non-planar face 413 is arcuate. That is, the non-planar face 413 is curved in profile, although other non-planar shapes are contemplated. As shown, the non-planar face 413 is formed by a part of a spherical component.

[0104] The cover member 412 includes a cover portion 414 and two arms 416, 417 that serve as support features, such as Figure 6 As shown. The arms 416, 417 in this arrangement include flanges, but other configurations are contemplated. The arms 416, 417 extend from opposite sides of the cover 414. In an embodiment, the arms 416, 417 are a continuation of the cover 414. In an embodiment, a single support feature is used. The cover 414 includes a non-planar face 413. As shown Figure 4As shown, in the closed position, at least a portion of the non-planar face 413 is exposed to the exterior of the device 100 .

[0105] The non-planar face 413 is partially spherical. The non-planar face 413 is formed by the outer face of the cover member 412. The shape of the cover portion 414 is non-planar. The cover member 412 includes a partially spherical portion.

[0106] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As particularly shown in the figure, the cover member 412 is pivotally mounted with the body 402. The pivot mechanism 415 extends between the cover member 412 and the body 402. The pivot mechanism 415 includes a shaft 418. The shaft 418 defines the rotation axis of the cover member 412. The shaft 418 includes relative pivot pins 418a, 418b extending from the cover member 412. The cover member 412 includes two arms 416, 417 extending from opposite sides of the cover portion 414. Each arm 416, 417 includes a corresponding one of the pivot pins 418a, 418b. The pivot pins 418a, 418b engage with corresponding pivot seats 419a, 419b on the body 402. The arrangement of the pivot pins 418a, 418b and the pivot seats 419a, 419b can be reversed. In an embodiment, the pivot mechanism 415 has another configuration. The pivot mechanism 415 allows the cover member 412 to rotate about a rotation axis between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. The rotation axis of the cover member 412 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. In an embodiment, the rotation axis may be substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis X.

[0107] The opening 103 defines a plane, and the rotation axis of the cover member 412 is at least substantially parallel to the plane. The rotation axis of the cover member 412 is spaced apart from the plane. In an embodiment, the rotation axis of the cover member 2 is spaced apart from the plane along the longitudinal axis X. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the cover member 412 is configured to be rotatably attached to the outer surface of the tubular wall 403 so that the cover member 412 can rotate around the rotation axis. The arms 416, 417 space the cover portion 414 from the rotation axis of the cover member 412.

[0108] The cover member 412 is rotatably attached to the body 402 so that it can be moved, for example Figure 3 The open position shown is similar to e.g. Figure 4The cover member 412 is rotatable between the closed positions shown, in which at least a portion of an article (e.g., article 300) can pass through the opening 103, and in the closed position, at least a portion of an article (e.g., article 300) is prevented from passing through the opening 103. The cover member 412 is arranged to slide over the body 402 to move between the open position and the closed position. In the closed position, the cover member 412 completely closes the opening 103. That is, the cover member 412 overlaps the edge of the opening 103 along its peripheral range. In an embodiment, when in the relatively closed position, the cover member 412 at least partially closes the opening 103.

[0109] In the open position, the cover member 412 fully opens the opening 103. That is, the cover member 412 does not overlap the edge of the opening 103. In an embodiment, when in the relatively open position, the cover member 412 overlaps a portion of the edge of the opening 103, but is open to allow articles to pass through.

[0110] The actuation member 422 is arranged to move relative to the body 402. The actuation member 422 and the body 402 together define at least a portion of the housing of the device 100. The actuation member 422 is configured to receive at least a portion of an article (e.g., article 300) including an aerosol-generating material inserted into the heating zone 108. The actuation member 422 defines an actuation member opening 424 for receiving at least a portion of an article (e.g., article 300) including an aerosol-generating material inserted into the heating zone 108. The actuation member 422 is arranged such that the actuation member opening 424 is parallel to the opening 103, and the actuation member opening 424 is spaced apart from the opening 103. The actuation member 422 is also arranged such that a centerline of the actuation member opening 424 coincides with a centerline of the opening 103. The actuation member opening 424 overlaps the opening 103 such that when at least a portion of an article (eg, the article 300 ) is inserted into the actuation member opening 424 , it passes through the opening 103 and into the heating zone 108 defined by the tubular wall 403 .

[0111] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the cover member 412 interacts with the actuation member 422 to selectively open and close the actuation member opening 424 .

[0112] In an embodiment, the cover member 412 is arranged to contact the body 402 to at least partially close the opening 103. In some embodiments, the cover member 412 may contact the upper edge of the tubular wall 403 to seal the opening 103. In some embodiments, a gap is defined between the cover member 412 and the body 430.

[0113] The actuation member 422 is attached to the body 402. The actuation member 422 is attached to the body 402 in any suitable manner to allow the actuation member 422 to move relative to the body 402. The movement of the actuation member 422 may include, but is not limited to, rotation and translation. In this embodiment, the actuation member 422 is rotatably mounted to the body 402. The actuation member 422 provides a simple mechanical mechanism to the user for moving the cover member 412 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0114] The movement of the actuating member 422 relative to the body 402 causes the cover member 412 to move between the relative open position and the relative closed position. A gap 426 is defined between the actuating member 422 and the body 402, and the cover member 412 is arranged to move between the relative open position and the relative closed position through the gap. The rotation axis coincides with the longitudinal axis X, so that the actuating member 422 rotates around the longitudinal axis X. In some embodiments, the rotation axis of the actuating member 422 deviates from the longitudinal axis X and is optionally parallel to the longitudinal axis X. The rotation axis of the cover member 412 is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the actuating member 422. In an embodiment, the rotation axis of the cover member 412 is transverse to the rotation axis of the actuating member 422. In an embodiment, the rotation axis of the cover member 412 is parallel to the rotation axis of the actuating member 422, and is optionally one of coinciding with or deviating from it. The rotation of the actuating member 422 relative to the body 402 causes the cover member 412 to rotate between the relative open position and the relative closed position.

[0115] The cover member 412 is arranged to cooperate with the actuation member 422 to at least partially close the opening 103 .

[0116] The term relative open position will be understood to refer to any position where at least a portion of the article 300 can pass through the opening 103, including the fully open position and an intermediate position that leaves enough space for the portion to be inserted of the article 300. The term relative closed position will be understood to refer to any position that prevents the portion of the article 300 from passing through the opening 103, including the fully closed position and an intermediate position where there is not enough space for the article 300 to pass through the opening. In this embodiment, the rotation of the actuating member 422 relative to the body 402 causes the cover member 412 to move to or from the fully closed position. The term fully closed position will be understood to refer to the range of the cover member 412 covering the opening 103. The terms open and closed applied to the features of the cover mechanism 410 are described in relation to each other herein. When the cover member 412 is in the closed position, undesirable substances such as liquids and particles are restricted from entering the heating chamber. This improves the life of the device and the overall user experience.

[0117] In some embodiments, the actuation member 422 is arranged to translate relative to the body 402 to cause the cover member 412 to rotate between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position. In some embodiments, the actuation member 422 is arranged to translate substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0118] The actuation member 422 extends over the proximal end of the body 430 and houses the cap member 412. The actuation member 422 defines a sheath 438. The sheath 438 is disposed around the tubular wall 403.

[0119] The rim 428 defines the actuation member opening 424. A gap 426 is defined between the actuation member 422 and the body 402. The gap 426 extends between the inner side 427 of the actuation member 422 and the proximal end of the tubular wall 403. In an embodiment, at least one of the inner surface of the rim 428 and the proximal end of the tubular wall 403 includes a rounded or chamfered edge to align with the path of the cover member 412. In an embodiment, the chamfered or rounded edge of the proximal end of the tubular wall 403 mates with the cover member 412. In an embodiment, the chamfered or rounded edge of the cover member 412 mates with the cover member 412. The gap 426 has a width greater than the thickness of the cover 412 so that the cover 412 can pass through the gap 426. The surfaces of the cover member 412 and the body 402 can correspond to accommodate the movement of the non-planar shape of the cover 412 when the cover moves between the relative open position and the relative closed position. When in the closed position, the cover member 412 is arranged between the opening 103 and the actuation member opening 424. By this arrangement, any object passing through the actuation member opening 424 is prevented from passing through the opening 103 and entering the heating zone 108.

[0120] In some embodiments, the cover member 412 includes a curved outer surface arranged to mate with the rim 428. The curved outer surface may be partially spherical.

[0121] In some embodiments, at least one of the rim 428 and the proximal end of the tubular wall 403 defines or is formed by a sealing element that forms a seal with the cover member 412 when the cover member 412 is in a relatively closed position. The seal helps prevent liquids and other contaminants from entering and exiting the heating zone 108. In some embodiments, the seal forms an airtight seal.

[0122] The actuation mechanism 420 comprises a gear mechanism 440. Alternative actuation mechanisms are envisaged, for example in embodiments where the actuation mechanism 420 comprises a cam mechanism.

[0123] Special References Figures 5 to 8 , the gear mechanism 440 includes a gear device 442. Figure 5 , a portion of the actuating member 422 is omitted. Figure 6In FIG. 4 , the cover member 412 is shown in a closed position. Figure 7 , the cover member 412 is shown in an open position. Figure 8 , the cover member 412 is partially transparently shown to provide a view of the following components. The gear arrangement 442 is enclosed by the actuating member 422. In an embodiment, the gear arrangement 442 is at least partially enclosed by another portion of the housing of the device 100. In some embodiments, the gear arrangement 442 includes a gear 444 that rotates around the rotation axis of the cover member 2. The gear 444 is located on the shaft 418. The gear 444 is fixedly mounted on the shaft 444. In an embodiment, the gear 444 is integrally formed with the cover member 412. The rotation axis of the gear 444 coincides with the rotation axis of the cover member 412. The rotation of the gear 444 around the rotation axis of the cover member 412 causes the cover member 412 to rotate.

[0124] Gear 444 includes gear teeth 446 that cooperate with actuation member 422. In some embodiments, the entire circumference of gear 444 includes gear teeth 446. Alternatively, only a portion of the circumference of gear 444 includes gear teeth. Gear 444 includes a bevel gear. Other gear arrangements are also possible.

[0125] The actuating member 422 includes a gear track 448 for driving the gear arrangement 422. The gear track 448 is arranged to cooperate with the gear 444. The gear track 448 extends at least partially around the edge 428. The gear track 448 is arc-shaped. When the actuating member 422 rotates, the gear track 448 cooperates with the gear 444 throughout the range of motion. The gear track 448 has a constant radius.

[0126] In an embodiment, the gear track 448 extends substantially perpendicularly from the rim 428. In such an embodiment, the gear track 448 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis X toward the distal end of the body 402. The gear track 448 drives the gear 444 when the actuation member 422 translates away from the body 402 in the direction of the longitudinal axis. In an embodiment, the gear track 448 includes a stop 449 at each end that prevents further engagement with the cog 444 and prevents further movement of the actuation member 422. The stop 449 is positioned so that additional movement of the actuation member 422 is prevented when the cover member 412 reaches either the relatively open position or the relatively closed position. In some embodiments, the gear track 448 is tapered.

[0127] In some embodiments, a second gear arrangement (not shown) is disposed on a second node 418 opposite to the node 418 on which the cog 444 is disposed. In such an embodiment, the gear track 448 extends in two opposite segments on the edge 428, and each segment of the gear track 448 has the same length. The second gear arrangement includes a transmission gear, a steering gear, and a drive gear. The second gear arrangement provides auxiliary drive to the first gear arrangement. The drive gear is on the shaft 418. The transmission gear arrangement is parallel to the drive gear and includes teeth configured to cooperate with the actuation member 422. The transmission gear is not disposed on the second node 418. The steering gear is attached to the body and is arranged to cooperate with both the transmission gear and the drive gear. The movement of the actuation member 422 causes the rotation of the transmission gear, which causes the rotation of the steering gear, which causes the rotation of the drive gear. This provides auxiliary drive to move the cover member 412 between the relative open position and the relative closed position. The second gear arrangement thereby drives the cover member 412 in a direction opposite to the rotation of the transmission gear and in the same direction as the gear 444.

[0128] 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 claimed invention. 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 device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising: a body defining an opening; a heating zone arranged to receive at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol generating material inserted through the opening; as well as Cover mechanism, including: a cover member including a non-planar face arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening; an actuation member arranged to move relative to the body to actuate the cover member, wherein movement of the actuating member relative to the body causes the cover member to rotate between a relatively open position in which at least a portion of the article can pass through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein: The non-planar face is curved.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The cover member includes a cover portion and at least one arm that spaces the cover portion apart from a rotation axis of the cover member.

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein: The rotational axis of the cover member is transverse to a longitudinal axis defined by the heating zone.

5. The aerosol supply device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The rotational axis of the cover member is transverse to the rotational axis of the actuation member.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The actuation member is arranged to rotate about the longitudinal axis.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The actuation member is arranged to rotate relative to the body to cause the cover member to rotate between the relative open position and the relative closed position.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The body includes a tubular wall defining the heating zone, and the tubular wall at least partially defines the opening, wherein the cover member is configured to cooperate with the tubular wall to at least partially close the opening.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The cover member is pivotably attached to the body.

10. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The actuation member defines an actuation member opening for receiving at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol-generating material inserted into the heating zone.

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 10, wherein: The actuation member opening overlaps the opening of the body.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The actuation member defines a sheath arranged to at least partially house the cover member.

13. The aerosol supply device according to claim 12, wherein: When the cover member is in the relatively open position, the actuation member and the body cooperate to close the cover member.

14. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: A gap is defined between the actuation member and the body, the cover member being arranged to move between the relative open position and the relative closed position through the gap.

15. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The cover mechanism includes an actuation mechanism acting between the cover member and the actuation member.

16. The aerosol supply device according to claim 15, wherein: The actuation mechanism includes a gear mechanism between the cover member and the actuation member.

17. The aerosol supply device according to claim 16, wherein: The gear mechanism includes a bevel gear arrangement on a first side of the opening and a shaft on an opposing second side of the opening.

18. The aerosol supply device according to claim 17, wherein: The gear arrangement comprises a bevel gear.

19. The aerosol supply device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein: The actuating member comprises a gear track for driving the gear arrangement.

20. An aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 19 and an article comprising an aerosol generating material.

Images