Aerosol delivery device including generator assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol delivery device. An aerosol delivery device may include an atomizer, a reservoir configured to contain an aerosol precursor composition, and a circuit coupled to the atomizer. The circuit may include a generator assembly including a movable input member and a generator configured to generate an electrical current from movement of the movable input member. The circuitry may be configured to direct an electrical current to the atomizer to generate an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition. The invention also provides a related aerosol production method.

Description

[0001] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of International Application No. PCT / IB2017 / 053439, having an international filing date of June 9, 2017, which entered the National Stage in the United States as U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 882, 1 10, filed January 30, 2018, entitled "AEROSOL DELIVERY DEVICE INCLUDING A POWER GENERATOR ASSEMBLY," the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices, and more specifically to power mechanisms for aerosol delivery devices. Aerosol delivery devices can include an atomizer configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol precursor composition. Aerosol precursor composition materials, which can be made of, or derived from, or otherwise incorporate tobacco, can be heated by a heating element of the atomizer to generate an inhalable substance for human consumption. BACKGROUND

[0003] In recent years, a number of smoking devices have been proposed as improvements upon, or as replacements for, smoking articles requiring the combustion of tobacco. It is said that many of the above-described devices have been designed to provide the sensations associated with cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking while delivering far fewer of the harmful substances found in smoke resulting from the combustion of tobacco. To this end, a number of cigarette, cigar and pipe products have been proposed that employ electrical energy to vaporize or heat a volatile material or attempt to provide the sensations of cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking without burning tobacco to a significant degree. See, for example, the various alternative smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and heat generating sources described in the background information described in U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 to Robinson et al. and U.S. Patent No. 8,881,737 to Collett et al., both of which are incorporated herein by reference. See also, for example, the various types of smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and electrically powered heat generating sources referenced by brand name and commercial source in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 to Bless et al., the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Further, various types of electrically powered aerosol and vapor delivery devices are proposed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 to Sears et al.; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0283859 to Minskoff et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0335070 to Sears et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0335071 to Brinkley et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0007651 to Ampolini et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0050975 to Worm et al.; all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] Some existing embodiments of aerosol delivery devices include a control body and a cartridge. A power source (e.g., a battery) may be located in the control body, and the aerosol precursor composition may be located in a reservoir within the cartridge. The battery can be charged via a power adapter to allow for reuse. However, the use of alternative electrical technologies for powering aerosol delivery devices is anticipated. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery device, which in some embodiments may be characterized as an electronic cigarette. In one aspect, an aerosol delivery device is provided. The aerosol delivery device may include a housing and circuitry. The circuitry may include a generator assembly including a movable input member extending out of the housing. Further, the circuitry may include a generator that generates current from movement of the movable input member. The circuitry may additionally include a connector configured to direct current to an atomizer to generate an aerosol from an aerosol precursor composition.

[0006] In some embodiments, the circuit may additionally include an electrical storage device configured to receive and store current. The circuit may also include a switch configured to selectively direct current from the electrical storage device to a connector. Furthermore, the circuit may include an external power input configured to charge the electrical storage device.

[0007] The connector may include a coupling configured to engage a cartridge including an atomizer and a reservoir containing an aerosol precursor composition.

[0008] In some embodiments, the generator assembly may further include a generator shaft extending from the generator. A movable input member may be configured to rotate the generator shaft of the generator assembly. The movable input member may include a lever. The movable input member may also include a gear track.

[0009] The generator assembly may also include a transmission gear assembly. A gear track may be configured to engage the transmission gear assembly and rotate it. The transmission gear assembly may be configured to rotate a generator shaft extending from the generator. The generator assembly may also include a flywheel assembly. The transmission gear assembly may engage with the flywheel assembly, and the flywheel assembly may engage with the generator shaft extending from the generator. The transmission gear assembly may include an input gear and an output gear. The gear track may engage with the input gear, and the flywheel assembly may engage with the output gear.

[0010] In an additional aspect, an aerosol delivery device is provided. The aerosol delivery device may include a control body, an atomizer, and a reservoir containing an aerosol precursor composition.

[0011] In an additional aspect, a method for producing aerosols is provided. The method may include generating an electric current using a generator assembly including a movable input member. The movable input member may extend out of a housing. Further, the method may include directing the current to an atomizer configured to receive an aerosol precursor composition from a reservoir to heat the aerosol precursor composition and generate an aerosol. The atomizer and the reservoir may be engaged with or received within the housing.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method may further include receiving and storing current in an electrical storage device before directing current to the atomizer. Directing current to the atomizer may include directing current to the atomizer in response to receiving an input from a switch. Furthermore, the method may include charging the electrical storage device with external current from an external power source located outside the housing. Directing current to the atomizer may also include directing current to a cartridge comprising the atomizer and a reservoir via a coupling.

[0013] In some embodiments, generating current using the generator assembly may include rotating a generator shaft extending from a generator having a movable input member. Generating current using the generator assembly may also include rotating a transmission gear assembly together with the movable input member. Generating current using the generator assembly may also include rotating a flywheel assembly. Generating current using the generator assembly may further include engaging an input gear of the transmission gear assembly with the movable input member and engaging an output gear of the transmission gear assembly with the flywheel assembly.

[0014] Therefore, this disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following embodiments: Example 1: A control body includes: a housing; and a circuit including: a generator assembly including a movable input member extending from the housing; a generator that generates current from movement of the movable input member; and a connector configured to direct current to an atomizer to generate an aerosol from an aerosol precursor composition.

[0015] Example 2: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or hereinafter described embodiments, wherein the circuit further includes an electrical storage device configured to receive and store current.

[0016] Example 3: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, wherein the circuit further includes a switch configured to selectively direct current from the electrical storage device to the connector.

[0017] Example 4: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, wherein the circuit further includes an external power input configured to charge the electrical storage device.

[0018] Example 5: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, wherein the connector includes a coupling configured to engage a cartridge including an atomizer and a reservoir containing an aerosol precursor composition.

[0019] Example 6: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, wherein the generator assembly further includes a generator shaft extending from the generator, and a movable input member is configured to rotate the generator shaft of the generator assembly.

[0020] Example 7: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or hereinafter described embodiments, wherein the movable input member includes a lever.

[0021] Example 8: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or hereinafter described embodiments, wherein the movable input component further includes a gear track.

[0022] Example 9: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or hereinafter described embodiments, wherein the generator assembly further includes a transmission gear assembly, the gear track being configured to engage the transmission gear assembly and rotate the transmission gear assembly, the transmission gear assembly being configured to rotate a generator shaft extending from the generator.

[0023] Example 10: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, wherein the generator assembly further includes a flywheel assembly, a transmission gear assembly engages with the flywheel assembly, and the flywheel assembly engages with a generator shaft extending from the generator.

[0024] Example 11: A control body or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or hereinafter described embodiments, wherein the transmission gear assembly includes an input gear and an output gear, a gear track engages with the input gear, and a flywheel assembly engages with the output gear.

[0025] Example 12: An aerosol delivery device comprising a control body or a combination thereof from any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, and further comprising: an atomizer; and a reservoir containing an aerosol precursor composition.

[0026] Example 13: An aerosol production method comprising: generating an electric current using a generator assembly including a movable input member extending out of a housing; directing the current to an atomizer configured to receive an aerosol precursor composition from a reservoir to heat the aerosol precursor composition and generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizer and the reservoir are engaged with or received within the housing.

[0027] Example 14: The aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments further includes receiving and storing the current in an electrical storage device before directing the current to the atomizer.

[0028] Example 15: An aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or hereinafter described embodiments, wherein directing current to the atomizer includes directing current to the atomizer in response to receiving an input from a switch.

[0029] Example 16: The aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments further includes charging the electrical storage device with an external current from an external power source located outside the housing.

[0030] Example 17: An aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent examples, wherein directing current to the atomizer includes directing current to a cartridge comprising an atomizer and a reservoir via a coupling.

[0031] Example 18: An aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent examples, wherein generating current using a generator assembly includes rotating a generator shaft extending from the generator with a movable input member.

[0032] Example 19: An aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, wherein generating current using a generator assembly further includes rotating a transmission gear assembly together with a movable input member.

[0033] Example 20: An aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or hereinafter described embodiments, wherein generating current using a generator assembly further includes rotating a flywheel assembly.

[0034] Example 21: An aerosol production method or combination thereof according to any of the foregoing or subsequent embodiments, wherein generating current using a generator assembly further includes engaging an input gear of a transmission gear assembly with a movable input member and engaging an output gear of the transmission gear assembly with a flywheel assembly.

[0035] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will become clear from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. This disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four, or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure or recited in any one or more claims, whether such features or elements are clearly combined or otherwise described in the specific embodiments herein or in the claims. Unless expressly specified in the context of this disclosure, this disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any divisible feature or element in any aspect and embodiment of this disclosure should be considered as intended to be combinable. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The present disclosure has already been described in general terms above, and reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, in which: Figure 1A side view of an aerosol delivery apparatus including a control body and a cartridge according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 Exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 1 A modified cross-sectional view of the control unit of the aerosol delivery device; Figure 3 Exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 1 Modified cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device.

[0037] Figure 4 Exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 1 An exploded view of the feed cylinder; Figure 5 Exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 1 Main side view of the generator assembly of the aerosol delivery device; Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A secondary side view of the generator assembly; and Figure 7 An aerosol production method of an aerosol delivery apparatus according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0038] This disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to exemplary embodiments. These embodiments are described so that this disclosure will be exhaustive and complete, and will fully convey the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. In fact, this disclosure may be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these aspects are set forth so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Unless expressly stated otherwise herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used in this specification and the appended claims include plural variations.

[0039] The aerosol delivery device according to this disclosure can use electrical energy to heat a material (preferably without burning the material to any significant extent) to form an inhalable substance; most preferably, the article is compact enough to be considered a "handheld" device. The aerosol delivery device can provide some or all of the sensations of smoking a cigarette, cigar, or pipe (e.g., inhalation and exhalation habits, types of taste or aroma, sensory effects, bodily sensations, usage habits, visual cues provided by visible aerosols, etc.) without burning any component of the article or device to a significant extent. In the sense of aerosols produced as byproducts of tobacco combustion or pyrolysis, the aforementioned aerosol delivery device may not produce smoke; rather, most preferably, the article or device generates vapor (including vapor in aerosols that can be considered as visible aerosols, which can be considered smoke-like) resulting from the volatilization or vaporization of specific components of the article or device, although in other embodiments such aerosols may be invisible. In a very preferred embodiment, the aerosol delivery device may contain tobacco and / or tobacco-derived components. Therefore, this aerosol delivery device can be characterized as an electronic smoking item such as an electronic cigarette.

[0040] The aerosol delivery device disclosed herein can also be characterized as an article or pharmaceutical delivery article that generates vapor. Therefore, such an article or device can be adapted to deliver one or more substances (e.g., flavorings and / or active pharmaceutical ingredients) in an inhalable form or state. For example, the inhalable substance can substantially be in the form of vapor (i.e., a substance in the gas phase at a temperature below a critical point). Alternatively, the inhalable substance can be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or droplets in a gas). For simplicity, the term "aerosol" as used herein is intended to include vapors, gases, or aerosols of a form or type suitable for human inhalation, whether visible or not, and whether or not they can be considered in a smoke-like form.

[0041] When in use, the aerosol delivery device of this disclosure can withstand many of the physical actions an individual would take when using a conventional type of smoking article (e.g., a cigarette, cigar, or pipe for lighting and inhaling tobacco). For example, the aerosol delivery device of this disclosure can be held by a user, who can inhale over a portion of the article to inhale the aerosol produced by the article, and the user can inhale at selected time intervals, etc.

[0042] The aerosol delivery device disclosed herein generally includes a housing and multiple additional components coupled to and / or positioned within the housing, some of which may be removable or replaceable. The overall design of the housing can vary, and the overall size and shape of the housing can also vary. The smoking article may include a cartridge, which may be defined by an outer body or cap—for example, an elongated body resembling a portion of a cigarette or cigar. For example, the outer cap or body of the smoking article may be substantially tubular in shape and thus resemble the shape of a conventional cigarette or cigar. In some embodiments, the housing may contain one or more reusable components (e.g., a rechargeable battery and various electronic devices for controlling the operation of the article), and the cartridge may be removable, refillable, and / or disposable.

[0043] Most preferably, the aerosol delivery device of this disclosure includes a combination of the following: a power source (i.e., a power supply); at least one controller (e.g., a means for actuating, controlling, regulating, and / or stopping the power used for heating by controlling the current flowing from the power source to other components of the aerosol delivery device); a heater or heating element (e.g., a resistance heating element or component, typically referred to as part of an "atomizer"); an aerosol precursor composition (e.g., a liquid that is typically capable of generating an aerosol when sufficient heat is applied, such as ingredients typically referred to as "cigarette juice," "e-liquid," and "e-juice"); and a mouthpiece region or end portion that allows inhalation at the aerosol delivery device to inhale the aerosol (e.g., a defined airflow passage through the article such that the generated aerosol can be drawn out from the airflow passage upon inhalation). When the heating element heats the aerosol precursor composition, the aerosol is formed, released, or generated in a physical manner suitable for consumer inhalation. It should be noted that the foregoing terms are intended to be interchangeable, such that the terms "release," "will release," "will be released," or "after release" include "formation or generation," "will form or will generate," "will form or generate," and "after formation or after generation." Specifically, inhalable substances are released in the form of vapors or aerosols or mixtures thereof.

[0044] As described above, the aerosol delivery device may include a battery and / or other power source (e.g., a capacitor) to provide sufficient current to power various functions of the aerosol delivery device, such as powering the heater, the control system, and the indicators. The power source can take various forms. Preferably, the power source is capable of delivering sufficient power to rapidly heat the heating element, thereby providing aerosol formation and powering the aerosol delivery device for the desired duration. The size of the power source is preferably configured for convenient fitting within the aerosol delivery device, making the device easy to handle. Furthermore, the preferred power source is lightweight enough not to impair the desired smoking experience. The battery used in this device may be replaceable, removable, and / or rechargeable, and therefore can be combined with any type of charging technology, including connection to a typical AC outlet, connection to a vehicle charger (i.e., a cigarette lighter socket), and connection to a computer such as via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable or connector. In a preferred embodiment, the power source includes a lithium-ion battery that is lightweight, rechargeable, and provides a large energy storage capacity. An example of a power source is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0028766 by Peckerar et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0045] The aerosol delivery device according to this disclosure is preferably incorporated with a sensor or detector for controlling the supply of power to the heating element when aerosol generation is required (e.g., during aspiration during use). Thus, for example, a method or approach is provided for shutting off the power to the heating element when the aerosol generating element is not being aspirated during use, and for turning on the power during aspiration to actuate or trigger the heat generated by the heating element. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al.; U.S. Patent No. 4,947,874 to Brooks et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al.; U.S. Patent No. 7,040,314 to Nguyen et al.; U.S. Patent No. 8,205,622 to Pan; and U.S. Patent No. 8,881,737 to Collet et al.; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009 / 0230117 to Fernando et al.; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0270727 to Ampolini et al.; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0257445 to Henry et al. describe representative current regulation components and other current control components, including various microcontrollers, sensors, and switches, for aerosol delivery devices; all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Additional representative types of sensing or detection mechanisms, structures, components, constructions, and general methods of operation are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,261,424 to Sprinkel, Jr.; U.S. Patent No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; and PCT WO 2010 / 003480 to Flick, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0046] In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may include an indicator, which may include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The indicator may be connected to a control component via connector circuitry and illuminates, for example, during a period when a flow sensor detects that a user is inhaling at the mouthpiece end.

[0047] In some respects, various elements that may be included in the housing are described in, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245658 by Worm et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other components may also be employed in the aerosol delivery device of this disclosure. For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,154,192 to Sprinkel et al. discloses an indicator for a smoking article; U.S. Patent No. 5,261,424 to Sprinkel, Jr. discloses a piezoelectric sensor capable of being associated with the mouthpiece of a device to detect lip movements of a user associated with inhalation and subsequent triggering of heating; U.S. Patent No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al. discloses a suction sensor for controlling the flow of energy into a heated load array in response to a pressure drop through the mouthpiece; U.S. Patent No. 5,967,148 to Harris et al. discloses a housing for a smoking device including an indicator and a controller, the indicator detecting non-uniformity of infrared transmittance of an inserted component, the controller executing a detection procedure when the component is inserted into the housing; and U.S. Patent No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al. describes a defined executable with multiple differential phases. Electricity cycling; U.S. Patent No. 5,934,289 to Watkins et al. discloses photonic-optoelectronic components; U.S. Patent No. 5,954,979 to Counts et al. discloses means for altering inhalation resistance via a smoking device; U.S. Patent No. 6,803,545 to Blake et al. discloses specific battery configurations used in smoking devices; U.S. Patent No. 7,293,565 to Griffen et al. discloses various charging systems for use with smoking devices; U.S. Patent No. 8,402,976 to Fernando et al. discloses computer interaction means for smoking devices to facilitate charging and allow computer control of the device; U.S. Patent No. 8,689,804 to Fernando et al. discloses an identification system for smoking devices; and WO2010 / 003480 to Flick discloses a fluid flow sensing system for indicating suction in an aerosol generation system; all of the above disclosures are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.Further examples of components related to electronic aerosol delivery articles and materials or components that can be used in articles disclosed herein include U.S. Patent No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,249,586 to Morgan et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,666,977 to Higgins et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,053,176 to Adams et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,164,287 to White; U.S. Patent No. 6,196,218 to Voges; U.S. Patent No. 6,810,883 to Fleder et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,854,461 to Nichols; U.S. Patent No. 7,832,410 to Hon; U.S. Patent No. 7,513,253 to Kobayashi; U.S. Patent No. 7,896,006 to Hamano; and U.S. Patent No. 6,896,006 to Shawan. U.S. Patent Nos. 772,756; Hon's U.S. Patent Nos. 8,156,944 and 8,375,957; Thorens et al.'s U.S. Patent No. 8,794,231; Oglesby et al.'s U.S. Patent No. 8,851,083; Monsees et al.'s U.S. Patent Nos. 8,915,254 and 8,925,555; and Hon's U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2006 / 0196518 and 20... U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 09 / 0188490; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0024834 by Oglesby et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0307518 by Wang; WO2010 / 091593 by Hon; WO2013 / 089551 by Foo; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261408 by DePiano et al., the full text of each of the above documents is incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] Aerosol precursor compositions, also known as vapor precursor compositions, may contain a variety of ingredients, including, for example, any polyol (e.g., glycerol, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof), nicotine, tobacco, tobacco extracts, and / or flavorings. Various ingredients that may be included in aerosol precursor compositions are described in U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 to Worm et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additional representative types of aerosol precursor compositions are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,793,365 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,101,839 to Jacob et al.; PCT WO 98 / 57556 to Biggs et al.; and RJ Reynolds Tobacco, Inc. (1988) in Chemical and Biological Studies on New Cigarette Prototypes that Heat Instead of Burn Tobacco; the full text of the above disclosures is incorporated herein by reference. Other aerosol precursors that may be used in the aerosol delivery devices of this disclosure include VUSE® products manufactured by RJ Reynolds Vapor; BLUTM products from Lorillard Technologies; MisticMenthol products from Mistic Ecigs; and Vype products from CN Creative Ltd. Also anticipated are so-called “tobacco juices” for electronic cigarettes, already available from John Creek Ltd. Additional exemplary formulations for aerosol precursor materials that may be used according to this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0008457 to Zheng et al. and U.S. Patent No. 9,254,002 to Chong et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0049] The aerosol delivery device preferably includes a reservoir. In some embodiments, the reservoir may include a receptacle for storing a liquid aerosol precursor, a fibrous substrate, or a combination of a fibrous substrate and a receptacle. A suitable fibrous substrate for use as a reservoir may comprise multiple layers of nonwoven fibers and may be substantially tubular. For example, the shape and size of the formed tube may be designed for placement within the outer body or cap of a cartridge for use in an aerosol delivery device. For example, the liquid component may be held and / or retained within the reservoir receptacle by the fibrous matrix in an adsorbent manner. The reservoir is preferably in fluid communication with a liquid delivery element. Therefore, the liquid delivery element may be configured to deliver liquid from the reservoir to a heating element, such as via capillary action and / or via active delivery—e.g., by pumping or controlled movement of a valve. Representative types of substrates, reservoirs, or other components for supporting aerosol precursors are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,528,569 to Newton and U.S. Patent No. 8,715,070 to Davis et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261487 to Chapman et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 to Bless et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0050] The liquid delivery element may be in direct contact with the heating element. Various wicking materials, and the construction and operation of those wicking materials within specific types of aerosol delivery devices, are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,910,640 to Sears et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The various materials disclosed in the foregoing document may be incorporated into the devices of this disclosure in various embodiments, and the entire contents of the foregoing disclosure are incorporated herein by reference.

[0051] Heating elements may include wire defining a plurality of coils wound around a liquid delivery element. In some embodiments, as described in U.S. Patent No. 9,210,738 to Ward et al., the heating element may be formed by winding wire around a liquid delivery element, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Further, in some embodiments, as described in U.S. Patent No. 9,277,770 to DePiano et al., the aforementioned wire may define a variable coil spacing, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Various embodiments of materials configured to generate heat when an electric current is applied therethrough may be used to form the heating element. Exemplary materials that may form wire coils include titanium, platinum, silver, palladium, Kanthal (FeCrAl), nickel-chromium alloys, molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2), molybdenum silicide (MoSi), molybdenum disilicide (Mo(Si,Al)2) mixed with aluminum, graphite and graphite-based materials; and ceramics (e.g., positive temperature coefficient ceramics or negative temperature coefficient ceramics). Heating elements may include wire defining a mesh, sieve, or grid structure positioned around a liquid delivery element. Exemplary materials that can form meshes, barriers, or grids include titanium, platinum, silver, palladium, Kanthal (FeCrAl), nickel-chromium alloys, molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2), molybdenum silicide (MoSi), molybdenum disilicide (Mo(Si,Al)2) mixed with aluminum, graphite and graphite-based materials; and ceramics (e.g., positive temperature coefficient ceramics or negative temperature coefficient ceramics). Exemplary embodiments of mesh heating elements are disclosed in Hon's U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0034103. As described in DePiano et al.'s U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0270729, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.Furthermore, additional representative heating elements and materials used herein are described in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 5,060,671 to Counts et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,093,894 to Deevi et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,224,498 to Deevi et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,228,460 to Sprinkel, Jr. et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,322,075 to Deevi et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,353,813 to Deevi et al.; and other U.S. patents. The disclosures of the following patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: U.S. Patent No. 5,468,936; U.S. Patent No. 5,498,850 of Das; U.S. Patent No. 5,659,656 of Das; U.S. Patent No. 5,498,855 of Deevi et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,530,225 of Hajaligol; U.S. Patent No. 5,665,262 of Hajaligol; U.S. Patent No. 5,573,692 of Das; and U.S. Patent No. 5,591,368 of Fleischhauer et al. Furthermore, chemical heating may also be employed in other embodiments. Various further examples of heaters and materials for forming heaters are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,881,737 of Collett et al., which is incorporated herein by reference as described above.

[0052] Various heater components can be employed in the aerosol delivery device of the present invention. In various embodiments, one or more solid-state heaters, such as microheaters, may be employed. Embodiments of microheaters and atomizers incorporating microheaters for the currently disclosed device are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,881,737 to Collett et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] One or more heating terminals (e.g., positive and negative terminals) may be connected to the heating element to form an electrical connection with a power source, and / or terminals may be connected to one or more control elements of the aerosol delivery device. Furthermore, various examples of electronic control components and the functions thereby performed are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 by Sears et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0054] The various components of the aerosol delivery device according to the invention can be selected from components described in the prior art and commercially available components. For example, reference is made to the reservoir and heater for the controlled delivery of various aerosolizable materials in electronic smoking articles disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0000638 by Sebastian et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] In other embodiments, one or more components of the aerosol delivery device may be formed of one or more carbon materials, which can provide advantages in terms of biodegradability and the absence of filaments. In this regard, the heating element may include carbon foam, the reservoir may include carbonized fabric, and graphite may be employed to form electrical connections with the battery and controller. Exemplary embodiments of carbon-based cartridges are provided in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 by Griffith et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0056] Aerosol delivery devices are often constructed in a manner that mimics aspects of certain traditional smoking devices such as cigarettes or cigars. In this respect, aerosol delivery devices typically define a generally cylindrical construction. For example, aerosol delivery devices often include a control body and a cartridge attached end-to-end to define a generally cylindrical construction. Such a construction provides an appearance and feel similar to conventional smoking items. However, aerosol delivery devices can be defined in various other shapes and constructions, such as a "keychain shape," which can be ergonomically constructed and allows for the use of relatively large cartridges or containers.

[0057] As described above, aerosol delivery devices typically include a power source that directs electricity to the heating element of an atomizer to heat the aerosol precursor composition and generate vapor. The current supplied by the power source can additionally be used to perform other functions such as illuminating indicators and powering electronic components included in the aerosol delivery device. However, power sources such as batteries and capacitors have limited energy storage capacity. Therefore, such power sources require periodic recharging or replacement to continue operating the aerosol delivery device. In some cases, depletion of the power source's charge can cause problems for the user. For example, a user may be isolated from an external power source during outdoor activities (e.g., hiking or traveling in remote areas). Furthermore, the external power source may experience failures (e.g., during severe weather or natural disasters), preventing the user from using an external power source to recharge the power source. Additionally, some users may be satisfied with being "off-grid" and avoid relying on an external power source. Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure provide an aerosol delivery device configured to address the aforementioned deficiencies in the construction of existing aerosol delivery devices and / or provide other benefits.

[0058] in this regard, Figure 1A side view of an aerosol delivery device 100 according to the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the aerosol delivery device 100 may include a control body 101, which may include a housing 102. In some embodiments, the housing 102 may include a plastic material, but in other embodiments, various other materials, preferably substantially rigid, may be used. The housing 102 may be a single piece or comprise multiple individual pieces. For example, the housing 102 may include a body portion 102a and a passageway door (access door) 102b, the body portion 102a itself may include one or more individual pieces. Figure 1 As further shown, the aerosol delivery device 100 may additionally include a cartridge 200, which may be at least partially received within the control body 101. The aerosol delivery device 100 may define a tubular structure, such as... Figure 1 The shape shown is a "keychain" or any other shape.

[0059] Figure 2 A partially exploded view of the control body 101 of the aerosol delivery device 100 is shown. As shown, the housing 102 may define a circuit cavity 104. Specifically, the circuit cavity 104 may be defined within the main body portion 102a of the housing 102. The circuit cavity 104 may be closed and accessed via a passage door 102b. As described in detail below, the circuit cavity 104 may be configured to receive at least a portion of a circuit 105. The circuit 105 may include one or more components, described below, and may be connected by wires or other electrical connectors.

[0060] Furthermore, the housing 102 may define a barrel cavity 106. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the barrel cavity 106 may be configured to receive the barrel 200. In this respect, the housing 102 may define an external opening 108 at the barrel cavity 106, which is configured to receive the barrel 200 therethrough.

[0061] Various embodiments of the barrel 200 can be used in the aerosol delivery device 100. In this respect, depending on the various possible configurations of the barrel components, Figure 3 The diagram shows a side view of the barrel 200, not a cross-sectional view. However, in Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of the feed cylinder is shown in the figure.

[0062] Specifically, Figure 4An exemplary embodiment of a cartridge 200 in a disassembled configuration is shown. As shown, the cartridge 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a base 202, control component terminals 204, electronic components 206, a flow guide 208, an atomizer 210, a reservoir 212 (e.g., a reservoir substrate), an outer body 214, a mouthpiece 216, a label portion 218, a first heating terminal 220a, and a second heating terminal 220b. The atomizer 210 may include a liquid delivery element 222 and a heating element 224. In this respect, when current is directed to the heating terminal 224, the heating terminal can heat the aerosol precursor composition guided from the reservoir 212 to the heating terminal by the liquid delivery element 222.

[0063] However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the cartridge 200 may include other components. For example, while the atomizer is described as including a heating element, various other embodiments of the atomizer may be employed, such as the volumetric atomizer described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0117842 by Brammer et al., or the pressurized atomizer described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0117841 by Brammer et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Furthermore, while the cartridge 200 is generally described herein as including a storage substrate, in other embodiments, the cartridge may hold the aerosol precursor composition therein without using a storage substrate (e.g., by using a receptacle or container in which the aerosol precursor or composition is stored). For example, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,220,302 to Depiano et al., the barrel may additionally include a base transport plug that engages with the base and / or a mouthpiece transport plug that engages with the mouthpiece to protect the base and mouthpiece and prevent contaminants from entering before use, and the entire contents of the aforementioned patent are incorporated herein by reference. For example, various other details regarding components that may be included within the barrel are provided in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261495 to Novak et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0335071 to Brinkley et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0064] return Figure 2 and 3 As described above, the control body 101 may include circuitry 105, which may be at least partially housed in or otherwise engaged with housing 102 (e.g., in circuitry cavity 106). Circuitry 105 may include generator assembly 110. Generator assembly 110 may include movable input member 112 and generator 113. In this respect, generator 113 may be configured to generate current from movement of movable input member 112.

[0065] Circuit 105 may be configured to direct current to the atomizer. For example, aerosol delivery device 100 may include a cartridge 200 configured to engage and disengage from control body 101, and may include an atomizer 210 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 4 In other embodiments, the control body may be configured to engage a canister containing a relatively large volume of aerosol precursor composition. Exemplary embodiments of an aerosol delivery device including a canister are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 0255702, filed December 28, 2015, by Phillips et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In additional embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may include an atomizer substantially permanently attached thereto. Thus, while the aerosol delivery device is generally described herein as comprising a control body and a separate cartridge, in other embodiments, components of the aerosol delivery device may be combined in a single unit.

[0066] Regardless of the specific construction of atomizer 210 (see...) Figure 4 Circuit 105 can be configured to direct current to atomizer 210 from a source that can be stored in storage 212 (see [link]). Figure 4 The aerosol precursor composition generates an aerosol. In this regard, circuit 105 may be coupled to atomizer 210. Therefore, the connector may be configured to direct current to atomizer 210 to generate an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition. For example, circuit 105 may include connector 114 configured to engage cartridge 200. Thus, when cartridge 200 is inserted into cartridge cavity 106, cartridge 200 may engage connector 114. Thus, cartridge 200 may establish an electrical connection with circuit 105. However, as will be understood, in other embodiments, connector may include wires or other components configured to directly or indirectly engage the atomizer, and its specific configuration may depend on whether the atomizer is permanently attached to the circuit or configured to be detached from the circuit.

[0067] Circuit 105 may also include controller 116. Controller 116 may be configured to control one or more operations of aerosol delivery device 100. For example, controller 116 may use information provided by electronics 206 to verify that the cartridge 200 is certified (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 4 The use of barrel 200 is permitted only if the barrel is confirmed to be certified.

[0068] Furthermore, circuit 105 may include a flow sensor 118, which may be located at or in fluid communication with coupling 114. Thus, when a user inhales the cartridge 200, flow sensor 118 (e.g., a pressure sensor) can detect the inhalation. In response, controller 116 may direct current to cartridge 200, causing heating element 224 of atomizer 210 (see [link to relevant documentation]) to activate.Figure 4 The device generates heat and causes the aerosol precursor composition to evaporate to produce vapor, which can be directed to the user. An exemplary embodiment of a controller for an aerosol delivery device is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245658 by Worm et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0069] In some embodiments, circuit 105 may further include a communication module. The communication module may be configured to communicate via Bluetooth or any other communication standard. Examples of communication modules and associated antenna components that may be included in aerosol delivery device 100 are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 802,789, filed July 17, 2015, and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 638,562, filed March 4, 2015, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0070] In some embodiments, circuitry 105 may additionally include an electronic display 120 (e.g., a liquid crystal display). The electronic display 120 may output information about the aerosol delivery device 100. For example, data displayed by the electronic display 120 may include the remaining cartridge aerosol precursor composition level, remaining power level, historical usage information, heat and aerosol output settings, charging status, communication status (e.g., when linked to another device via Bluetooth or other communication protocols), time, and / or various other data.

[0071] As described above, the aerosol delivery device 100 may include a generator assembly 110. It is understood that various embodiments of the generator assembly 110 may be employed. In this respect, the generator assembly 110 in… Figures 1-3 It is illustrated schematically. However, Figure 5 and 6 The main and secondary side views of a generator assembly 110 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0072] As described above, the generator assembly 110 may include a movable input member 112 and a generator 113 (see above). Figure 2 ).like Figure 6 As shown, the generator assembly 110 may further include a generator shaft 122 extending from the generator 113. A movable input member 112 can rotate the generator shaft 122 in a manner described below. Rotation of the generator shaft 122 causes a magnet to rotate relative to a wire loop. Current can thus be generated via electromagnetic induction. Therefore, the induced current can be output from a plurality of electrical connectors 124 (e.g., wires).

[0073] As described above, the movable input member 112 can be configured to rotate the generator shaft 122. In this respect, the movable input member 112 can be configured to move in response to a force applied by the user. For example, as Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the movable input member 112 may include a lever 126, which engages with a pin 128 at its end. Further, as... Figure 2 As shown, the movable input member 112, and specifically the lever 126 (see example...) Figure 5 The housing 102 can extend outwards. In this respect, the ergonomic "keychain" shape of the housing 102 facilitates engagement of the movable input member 112 by allowing the user to squeeze the movable input member with one hand.

[0074] return Figure 5 and 6 When the user squeezes lever 126, movable input member 112 can pivot about pin 128. Furthermore, movable input member 112 may include gear track 130, which includes toothed surfaces 132. Gear track 130 can engage with the end of lever 126 opposite pin 128 to maximize leverage and provide relatively long displacement during lever movement.

[0075] The toothed surface 132 of the gear track 130 can be configured to engage the transmission gear assembly 134 and cause the transmission gear assembly 134 to rotate. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the transmission gear assembly 134 may include an input gear 136 and an output gear 138. The toothed surface 132 of the gear track 130 can mesh with the input gear 136. Therefore, when the lever 126 is pressed, the toothed surface 132 of the gear track can mesh with the input gear 136, thereby causing the transmission gear assembly 134 to rotate. In this respect, the input gear 136 and the output gear 138 are each rotatably fixed to the drive shaft 140, such that rotation of the input gear causes rotation of the output gear.

[0076] The transmission gear assembly 134 may be configured to rotate the generator shaft 122 extending from the generator 113. In this respect, in one embodiment, the output gear 138 may directly rotate the generator shaft 122. However, as shown, in another embodiment, the output gear 138 may engage with the flywheel assembly 142.

[0077] In this respect, the flywheel assembly 142 may include a flywheel gear 144, a flywheel shaft 146, and a flywheel 148. The output gear 138 of the transmission gear assembly 134 may mesh with the flywheel gear 144. The flywheel gear 138 is rotatably fixed to the flywheel shaft 146 such that when the flywheel gear 144 is rotated by the output gear 138 of the transmission gear assembly 134, the flywheel shaft rotates.

[0078] Furthermore, when the flywheel shaft 146 rotates, the flywheel 148 is rotatable. In this regard, in some embodiments, the flywheel is rotatably fixed to the flywheel shaft. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the flywheel assembly 142 also includes an interlocking member 150. Figure 5 As shown, the interlocking member 150 may include at least one pawl 152. Each pawl 152 may be configured to engage one of a plurality of internal teeth 154 defined by the flywheel 148. Specifically, when the output gear 138 rotates the flywheel gear 144 and the flywheel shaft 146, one or more pawls 152 may engage the internal teeth 154. In this respect, the interlocking member 150 is rotatably fixed to the flywheel shaft 146. Thus, when the interlocking member 150 rotates, centrifugal force and / or gravity may cause one or more of the one or more pawls 152 to extend outward and engage the internal teeth 154 of the flywheel 148 respectively, causing the flywheel to rotate. The flywheel shaft 146 and the generator shaft 122 may rotate independently. However, the flywheel 148 is rotatably fixed to the generator shaft 122 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6 ), so that when the flywheel rotates, the generator 113 is connected via the electrical connector 124 as described above (see Figure 6 Output current.

[0079] Therefore, as described above, generator 113 (see example) Figure 6 The movable input member 112 can be configured to generate current from the movement of the movable input member 112. Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment described above, the movement of the movable input member 112 is a pivoting movement of the lever 126. The lever 126 can be pressed down until it is substantially flush or parallel to the main body portion 102a of the housing 102 (see, for example...). Figure 1 When the user releases lever 126 or stops applying force to it, the lever returns to its initial, extended starting configuration. In this respect, as... Figure 5 As shown, spring 156 (e.g., torsion spring) can engage with lever 126 such that the lever is spring-loaded and automatically returns to its initial, extended starting configuration when released by the user.

[0080] When lever 126 retracts to its initial extended starting position, the movement of gear track 130 can be reversed, which in turn can cause the transmission gear assembly 134 to rotate (e.g., as...). Figure 5 (The orientation shown is counterclockwise). Therefore, the flywheel gear 144, flywheel shaft 146, and interlocking member 150 can rotate clockwise.

[0081] However, after the inward pivoting motion of lever 126 stops and during the retraction of the lever back to its initial, extended starting configuration, flywheel 148 can continue to rotate without changing its direction of rotation. In this respect, flywheel 148 can be formed of a relatively dense material (e.g., steel or other metals) so that the rotational inertia of the flywheel can continue to rotate generator shaft 122, thereby allowing generator 113 to continue generating current even when the inward pivoting motion of lever 126 stops until the motion of the flywheel stops.

[0082] As described above, the interlocking member 150 allows the flywheel 148 to continue rotating. In this respect, each internal tooth 154 may define an interlocking surface 158 and a non-interlocking surface 160. The interlocking surface 158 may be positioned on one side of each internal tooth 154, which is configured such that when the interlocking member 150 is along a first direction (e.g., in...), Figure 5 When the interlocking member 150 rotates in the direction shown (counterclockwise), the pawl 152 engages, this first direction corresponding to the inward pivoting motion of the lever when the lever 126 is compressed to impart rotational motion to the flywheel 148. Conversely, when the interlocking member 150 rotates in the second direction (e.g., in...), the pawl 152 engages. Figure 5 When rotating (in a clockwise direction as shown in the diagram), the non-interlocking surface 160 can be positioned on the opposite side of the internal teeth 154. When the flywheel 148 rotates and the interlocking member 150 is stationary, and when the lever 126 retracts to its initial, extended starting configuration, the internal teeth 154 can engage one or more pawls 152. Therefore, after the flywheel 148 has been given movement by the interlocking member, the flywheel 148 can be substantially disengaged from the interlocking member 150. Thus, the interlocking member 150 can be configured to give the flywheel 148 rotational movement only in one direction, and allow the flywheel to continue rotating even when the interlocking member is not rotating or is rotating in the opposite direction.

[0083] Note that the embodiments of generator assembly 110 described above are provided for illustrative purposes only. Various other embodiments of generator assemblies including movable input members may be included in aerosol delivery devices. For example, in other embodiments, the generator assembly may include a linear motion generator, a hand-cranked generator, or any other embodiment of a generator assembly including a movable input member. An exemplary embodiment of a linear motion generator is described in U.S. Patent No. 4,924,123 to Hamajima et al., the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. An exemplary embodiment of a hand-cranked generator is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,723,880 to Dai et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0084] As mentioned above Figure 3The circuit 105 may include a generator assembly 110 that generates current to power components of the aerosol delivery device 100. Thus, for example, when the generator 113 generates current, that current can be directed to the cartridge 200. In other words, in one embodiment, the current generated by the generator 113 can be automatically and in response to the generation of current to the atomizer 210 of the cartridge 200 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 4 This requires no further user interaction. Therefore, in this embodiment, an aerosol can be generated when the user moves the movable input member 112. Thus, for example, the user can simultaneously move the movable input member 112 and draw in the material cylinder 200.

[0085] However, in other embodiments, it is desirable to store the current generated by generator 113 so that the current can be used when desired and to power other components of the aerosol delivery device 100, regardless of whether generator assembly 110 is currently generating current. Therefore, as Figure 2 and 3 As shown, circuit 105 may optionally further include an electrical storage device 162. For example, electrical storage device 162 may include a capacitor and / or a battery. In this respect, electrical storage device 162 may be configured to receive and store current generated by generator assembly 110 and release current when needed. In some embodiments, power supply 162 may be held in a circuit cavity 104 defined by housing 102 by channel door 102b and fastener 164.

[0086] Therefore, the electrical storage device 162 can power the electronic display 120. Furthermore, the electrical storage device 162 can hold substances that can be directed to the atomizer 210 (see...). Figure 4 The current flowing from the electrical storage device 162 to the atomizer 210 can be directed. For example, when the flow sensor 118 detects the user drawing the cartridge 200, current can be directed from the electrical storage device 162 to the atomizer 210. In other embodiments, the circuit 105 may also include a switch 166 configured to selectively direct current from the electrical storage device 162 to the atomizer 210. Thus, the user can have direct control over the current flow to the atomizer 210. The switch 166 may be provided in addition to the flow sensor 118, or the switch 166 may replace the flow sensor 118.

[0087] like Figure 2 and 3As shown, circuit 105 may also include an external power input 168 configured to charge the energy storage device 162. In this regard, the aerosol delivery device 100 may be connected to a charger that provides current to the energy storage device 162 via the external power input 168. Thus, for example, when the aerosol delivery device 100 is in a position where power is available, the energy storage device 162 may receive an initial charge via the external power input 168. Thereafter, a user may recharge the energy storage device 162 using the generator assembly 110 until power is available again (e.g., household current). In some embodiments, the external power input 168 may include a USB port or any other physical connector. In another embodiment, the external power input 168 may include an inductive receiver configured to provide current reception via induction. An exemplary embodiment of an inductive receiver is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 814,866, filed July 31, 2015, by Sebastian et al., the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0088] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may further include a solar cell 170. The solar cell 170 may be mounted to the main body portion 102a of the housing 102. The solar cell 170 may provide current to the energy storage device 162. Therefore, the solar cell 170 may be provided in place of one or both of the generator assembly 110 and the external power input 168, or it may be provided in addition to one or both of the generator assembly 110 and the external power input 168. Exemplary embodiments of an aerosol delivery device including a solar cell are provided in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 097,049, filed April 12, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0089] In an additional embodiment, a method for producing aerosols is provided. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the method may include generating current in operation 302 using a generator assembly including a movable input member. The movable input member may extend out of the housing. Further, the method may include directing current to an atomizer in operation 304, the atomizer being configured to receive an aerosol precursor composition from a reservoir to heat the aerosol precursor composition and generate an aerosol. The atomizer and reservoir may be engaged with or received within the housing.

[0090] In some embodiments, the method may further include receiving and storing current in an electrical storage device before directing current to the atomizer. Furthermore, directing current to the atomizer in operation 304 may include directing current to the atomizer in response to receiving an input from a switch. Further, the method may include charging the electrical storage device using external current from an external power source located outside the housing.

[0091] In some embodiments, directing current to the atomizer in operation 304 may include directing current to a cartridge including the atomizer and a reservoir via a coupling. Generating current using the generator assembly in operation 302 may include rotating a generator shaft extending from the generator with a movable input member. Generating current using the generator assembly in operation 302 may also include rotating a transmission gear assembly with the movable input member. Furthermore, generating current using the generator assembly in operation 302 may also include rotating a flywheel assembly. Generating current using the generator assembly in operation 302 may also include engaging an input gear of the transmission gear assembly with the movable input member and engaging an output gear of the transmission gear assembly with the flywheel assembly.

[0092] Many modifications and other embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, and they have the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and various modifications and other embodiments are included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A smoking article comprising: a housing defining a circuit cavity and a cartridge cavity; an atomizer; a cartridge comprising material configured to form an inhalable substance, the cartridge and the atomizer at least partially disposed within the cartridge cavity; an energy storage device at least partially disposed within the circuit cavity and configured to receive and store an electrical current and deliver energy to the atomizer to form the inhalable substance from the material configured to form the inhalable substance; and a generator mechanism configured to generate an electrical current to deliver the electrical current to the energy storage device. Each of the circuit cavity and the cartridge cavity extend longitudinally within the housing.

2. The smoking article of Claim 1, wherein, The generator assembly includes:

3. The smoking article of Claim 1, wherein, a movable input member extending out of the housing; and a generator engaged with the input member and configured to generate an electrical current from movement of the movable input member. The generator assembly further includes a generator shaft extending from the generator, and the movable input member is configured to rotate the generator shaft of the generator assembly.

4. A smoking article according to claim 3, wherein, The movable input member includes a lever.

5. The smoking article of Claim 3, wherein, The movable input member further includes a gear track.

6. A smoking article according to claim 5, wherein, The generator assembly further includes a transmission gear assembly, the gear track is configured to engage and rotate the transmission gear assembly, and the transmission gear assembly is configured to rotate the generator shaft extending from the generator.

7. A smoking article according to claim 6, wherein, The generator assembly further includes a flywheel assembly, and the transmission gear assembly is engaged with the flywheel assembly, and the flywheel assembly is engaged with the generator shaft extending from the generator.

8. A smoking article according to claim 7, wherein, The transmission gear assembly includes an input gear and an output gear, the gear track is engaged with the input gear, and the flywheel assembly is engaged with the output gear.

9. A smoking article according to claim 8, wherein, The generator assembly further includes a connector disposed within the cartridge cavity and configured to direct the electrical current from the generator to the atomizer to generate the inhalable substance from the material to produce the inhalable substance.

10. The smoking article of Claim 3, wherein, The connector includes a coupling configured to engage the cartridge.

11. The smoking article of Claim 10, wherein, The generator assembly includes at least one of a solar cell or an inductive receiver.

12. The smoking article of Claim 1, wherein, Further comprising a circuit, at least a portion of the circuit is disposed within the circuit cavity.

13. The smoking article of Claim 1, wherein, The circuit further includes an electrical storage device configured to receive and store the electrical current.

14. The smoking article of claim 13, wherein, The circuit further includes a switch selectively directing the electrical current from the electrical storage device to the connector, and optionally, the circuit further includes an external power input configured to charge the electrical storage device.

15. The smoking article of claim 13, wherein, ​

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