Extractor element of aerosol supply device

Abstract

An extractor element (6) of an aerosol supply device (2) is disclosed. The extractor element is configured such that, in a first mode of operation, the extractor element can be partially withdrawn from a housing (4) of the aerosol supply device, and wherein complete removal of the extractor element from the housing is limited by the retaining element (28).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an extractor element of an aerosol supply device, an aerosol supply device, an aerosol generation system, and a method for generating vapor. Background Technology

[0002] Smoking products such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Efforts have been made to provide alternatives to these products by generating and releasing compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are so-called "heat-not-burn" products or tobacco heating devices or products that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] Aerosol supply systems covering the aforementioned devices or products are known. Common systems use a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by the user. It is usually necessary to change or modify the medium used to provide different aerosols for inhalation. Induction heating systems are known to be used as heaters to generate aerosols from a suitable medium. Induction heating systems typically include a magnetic field generating device for generating a changing magnetic field and a sensor or heating material that can be heated by the penetration of the changing magnetic field to heat the suitable medium.

[0004] A known aerosol supply device includes a cylindrical heated chamber into which a rod-shaped aerosol generating article is inserted. Conventional aerosol supply devices are typically powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (“LiB”). Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect, an extractor element of an aerosol supply device is provided, wherein the extractor element is configured such that in a first operating mode, the extractor element is configured to be partially extracted from the housing of the aerosol supply device; and wherein the extractor element is restricted from complete removal from the housing by a retaining element of the aerosol supply device; and in a second operating mode, the extractor element is capable of complete removal from the housing of the aerosol supply device.

[0006] Optionally, the extractor element includes a limiting portion that restricts movement from a first operating mode to a second operating mode.

[0007] Alternatively, the retaining element can act as a stop to prevent the extractor element from being completely removed from the housing of the aerosol supply device.

[0008] Alternatively, the retaining element of the aerosol device housing can be made to stop the extraction element from being completely removed from the aerosol device housing by the interaction between the user and the extraction element.

[0009] Optionally, user interaction with the extractor element involves applying a predetermined force in a direction at least partially away from the housing of the aerosol device.

[0010] Optionally, in the second operating mode, the extractor element is partially extracted from the housing of the aerosol device, and the retaining element does not prevent the extractor element from being removed from the housing of the aerosol device.

[0011] Optionally, the extractor element is further configured such that, in the third operating mode, the extractor element is fully inserted into the housing of the aerosol supply device.

[0012] Optionally, the extractor element includes a product orifice into which the aerosol-generated product can be inserted during use.

[0013] Optionally, the extractor element is configured to fix the aerosol-generated article within the article orifice, such that in the first operating mode, the aerosol-generated article is held within the article orifice.

[0014] Optionally, the extractor element includes a retaining slot configured to engage with a retaining element of the aerosol supply device to restrict complete removal of the extractor element from the housing.

[0015] Optionally, retaining the slot includes retaining the channel.

[0016] Optionally, the retaining slot includes a stop configured to restrict movement of the extractor element relative to the retaining element.

[0017] Optionally, the extractor element is configured to fix the aerosol-generated article within the orifice, such that in the third operating mode, the aerosol-generated article is held within the orifice.

[0018] Optionally, the extractor element is configured to hold the aerosol-generated article within the user orifice, such that the aerosol-generated article is held within the orifice in both the first and third operating modes.

[0019] Alternatively, the extractor element is configured such that once the extractor element has been removed from the housing of the aerosol supply device, the user can extract the aerosol-generated article from the extractor element.

[0020] Optionally, the extractor element has a first end and a second end, wherein when the extractor element is in a first operating mode, the first end is away from the housing of the aerosol supply device, and the second end is held in the aerosol supply device when the extractor element is in the first operating mode.

[0021] Optionally, the extractor element includes one or more retaining orifices configured to engage with a retaining element. In such an embodiment, the portion of the extractor element defining each retaining orifice causes a predetermined action or force to disengage the retaining element from the retaining orifice.

[0022] Alternatively, the retaining orifice is an opening or hole in the surface of the extractor element, such that the retaining element can engage with the opening and prevent the extractor element from being completely removed from the housing.

[0023] In some embodiments, at least one retaining orifice extends through the body of the extractor element. In some embodiments, at least one orifice is an opening recessed within the material of the extractor element.

[0024] Optionally, one or more retaining orifices configured to engage with the retaining element may have the form of retaining slots.

[0025] Alternatively, the retaining slot is configured such that the retaining element engaged with the retaining slot can travel along the retaining slot.

[0026] Optionally, the extractor element includes a pair of retaining slots, which are coaxial or substantially coaxial with each other and separated in the longitudinal direction by islands of the extractor element.

[0027] Optionally, the common axis of the slots is kept parallel to or substantially parallel to axis A.

[0028] Optionally, the island is configured to prevent a retaining element engaged with one of a pair of retaining slots from traveling from one retaining slot to the other, unless a predetermined action or force is applied to the extractor element. When a predetermined action or force is applied or acted upon the extractor element, the retaining element may pass through the island.

[0029] Optionally, a first retaining slot in a pair of retaining slots is positioned in a portion of the extractor element that can be partially extracted from the housing of the aerosol supply device when the extractor element is in a first operating mode, and a second retaining slot in a pair of retaining slots is positioned in a portion of the extractor element that cannot be extracted from the housing of the aerosol supply device when the extractor element is in the first operating mode.

[0030] Optionally, the second retaining slot in the pair of retaining slots is at the farthest end of the first retaining slot in the pair of retaining slots, which is the mouth end, and is opened or opened through a portion of the second end of the extractor element.

[0031] Optionally, the nozzle end of the second retaining slot in the pair of retaining slots includes one or more converging slot walls, and the one or more slot walls converge in a direction from the second end of the retaining slot to the first end. Such converging walls can facilitate the introduction of the retaining element into the second retaining slot of the pair of retaining slots as the extractor element moves from the second operating mode toward the first operating mode.

[0032] Optionally, the extractor element includes a magnetic field source adapted to interact with a magnetic material in the aerosol supply device or a second magnetic field source and to bias the extractor element toward a third operating mode.

[0033] Optionally, the extractor element includes a magnetic field source adapted to interact with a magnetic material in the aerosol supply device or a second magnetic field source and to bias the extractor element toward a third operating mode.

[0034] Alternatively, the magnetic field source is one of a ferromagnetic material (such as magnetized iron, cobalt, or nickel or alloys thereof) and a rare-earth magnet (such as neodymium or samarium magnet).

[0035] Optionally, the extractor element includes a magnetic material adapted to interact with a magnetic field source in the aerosol supply device and to bias the extractor element toward a third operating mode.

[0036] Alternatively, the magnetic material is one of iron, cobalt, nickel, neodymium and samarium, or an alloy thereof.

[0037] According to another aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: a housing defining a heating chamber; and an extractor element configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material in the heating chamber; wherein the extractor element is configured such that, in a first operating mode, the extractor element is movable within the housing of the aerosol supply device; and the aerosol supply device includes a retaining arrangement configured to restrict movement of the extractor element to a second operating mode, in which the extractor element is spaced apart from the housing.

[0038] Optionally, the retaining arrangement includes a retaining device and a retaining slot, wherein the retaining device is configured to be received in the retaining slot in a first operating mode.

[0039] Optionally, retaining the slot includes retaining the channel.

[0040] Optionally, retaining the slot includes retaining the orifice.

[0041] Optionally, the retaining slot includes a stop configured to restrict movement of the extractor element relative to the retaining element between a first operating mode and a second operating mode.

[0042] Optionally, the stop is the spine.

[0043] Optionally, the aerosol supply device includes an auxiliary slot configured to receive and hold the device, wherein a stop is located between the holding slot and the auxiliary slot.

[0044] Optionally, the aerosol supply device includes a housing in which the extractor element is held during use.

[0045] Optionally, the aerosol supply device also includes a holding device for holding the extractor element within the housing of the aerosol supply device in a first operating mode.

[0046] Optionally, the retaining arrangement includes a retaining device.

[0047] Optionally, the retaining device includes one or more spring-loaded plunger devices.

[0048] Optionally, the retaining device includes one or more elastic elements.

[0049] Optionally, the retaining device is on the housing, and the extractor element includes a retaining slot.

[0050] Optionally, a retaining device is disposed on the extractor element, and the housing includes one or more retaining orifices configured to engage with the retaining device.

[0051] The retaining orifice in the housing is an opening or hole in the surface of the housing, which allows the retaining element to engage with the orifice and prevents the extractor element from being completely removed from the housing.

[0052] In some embodiments, at least one retaining orifice extends through the housing. In some embodiments, at least one orifice is an opening recessed within the material of the housing.

[0053] Optionally, the retaining device and at least one retaining orifice configured to engage with the retaining device are positioned such that the retaining device engages with at least one retaining orifice when the extractor element is in a first operating mode.

[0054] Optionally, when the extractor element is in the second operating mode, the holding device is not engaged with the extractor element.

[0055] Optionally, when the extractor element is in the third operating mode, the retaining element engages with at least one retaining orifice configured to engage with the retaining element.

[0056] Optionally, when the extractor element is in a first operating mode, the holding device engages with one or more first holding ports, and when the extractor element is in a third operating mode, the holding device engages with one or more second holding ports, and both the first and second holding ports are configured to engage with the holding device.

[0057] Optionally, the extractor element includes one or more retaining orifices configured to engage with a retaining device. In such an embodiment, the portion of the extractor element defining each retaining orifice requires a predetermined action or force to disengage the retaining device from the retaining orifice.

[0058] Optionally, one or more retaining orifices configured to engage with the retaining device may have the form of retaining slots.

[0059] Alternatively, the retaining slot is configured such that the retaining device engaging with the retaining slot can travel along the retaining slot.

[0060] Optionally, the extractor element includes two retaining slots, and the two retaining slots are coaxial or substantially coaxial.

[0061] Optionally, the two retaining slots are separated by a portion of the extractor element.

[0062] Optionally, the portion of the extractor element located between the two retaining slots is configured such that it prevents a retaining device engaged with one retaining slot from traveling to the other retaining slot unless a predetermined action or force is applied to the extractor element. When a predetermined action or force is applied or acted upon on the extractor element, the retaining device can move from one retaining slot to the other.

[0063] Optionally, the extractor element includes: an end portion; and a mouth portion that holds the slot, which opens or opens through a portion of the end portion of the extractor element.

[0064] Optionally, the nozzle end of the retaining slot includes one or more converging slot walls, and the slot walls converge in a direction along the retaining slot away from the nozzle end. These converging walls can facilitate the introduction of the retaining device into the retaining slot as the extractor element moves from the second operating mode toward the first operating mode.

[0065] Optionally, one or more retaining slots extend in the same direction as the direction in which the extractor element moves between the first operating mode and the third operating mode.

[0066] Optionally, one or more retaining slots are positioned such that the retaining device engages with one or more retaining slots when the extractor element is in a first operating mode and a third operating mode.

[0067] Optionally, one or more retaining slots extend in a direction different from the direction in which the extractor element moves between the first operating mode and the third operating mode.

[0068] Optionally, one or more retaining slots extend in a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the extractor element moves between the first operating mode and the third operating mode.

[0069] Optionally, the extractor element includes a magnetic field source adapted to interact with a magnetic material in the aerosol supply device or a second magnetic field source and bias the extractor element toward a third operating mode.

[0070] Optionally, the aerosol supply device includes a first magnetic field source, and the extractor element includes a second magnetic field source, and the first and second magnetic field sources are positioned such that the magnetic fields of the first and second magnetic field sources interact with each other and bias the extractor element toward a third operating mode.

[0071] Optionally, one of the aerosol supply device and the extractor element includes a magnetic field source, and the other of the aerosol supply device and the extractor element includes a magnetic material adapted to interact with the magnetic field source, and the magnetic field source and the magnetic material are positioned such that the interaction between the magnetic field and the magnetic material biases the extractor element toward a third operating mode.

[0072] Optionally, at least one magnetic field source is one of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., magnetized iron, cobalt, or nickel or alloys thereof) and a rare earth magnet (e.g., neodymium or samarium magnet).

[0073] Alternatively, the magnetic material is one of iron, cobalt, nickel, neodymium and samarium, or an alloy thereof.

[0074] According to one aspect, an extractor element of an aerosol supply device is provided, wherein the extractor element is configured such that in a first operating mode, the extractor element is configured to be partially extracted from the housing of the aerosol supply device; and wherein the extractor element is restricted from complete removal from the housing by a retaining element of the aerosol supply device; and in a second operating mode, the extractor element can be completely removed from the housing of the aerosol supply device.

[0075] According to another aspect, an aerosol generation system is provided, comprising: an aerosol supply device as described above; and an aerosol generation article containing aerosol generation material.

[0076] According to another aspect, a method for generating an aerosol is provided, the method comprising: providing an aerosol supply device as described above; inserting an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating material; and operating the aerosol supply device.

[0077] The apparatus of various aspects of this disclosure may include one or more or all of the features described above, and, where appropriate, combinations of features not specifically described. Attached Figure Description

[0078] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol supply device according to the present disclosure in a first operating mode is shown, the aerosol supply device including an extractor element according to the present disclosure. Figure 1A It shows Figure 1 Enlarged detail of part B of the aerosol supply device; Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the aerosol supply device in the second operating mode; Figure 2A It shows Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an extractor element of an aerosol supply device, wherein the aerosol-generated article is removed from the extractor element; Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply device in the second operating mode; Figure 3A It shows Figure 1 A second schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply device in the second operating mode; Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the extractor element of an aerosol supply device; Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the holding element of the aerosol supply device; Figure 6 A schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the extractor element of this disclosure is shown; and Figure 7 It shows along Figure 6 The section line C-C' cuts off Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the extractor element. Detailed Implementation

[0079] This document discusses or describes aspects and features of certain examples and implementations. Some aspects and features of certain examples and implementations can be conventionally implemented, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not discussed or described in detail. Therefore, it should be understood that aspects and features of the devices and methods discussed herein but not described in detail can be implemented using conventional techniques for implementing these aspects and features.

[0080] According to this disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the aerosol generating material is non-flammable or non-combustible in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0081] In some implementations, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as an electrically powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0082] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as an evaporation device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not necessary.

[0083] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a heating system for the aerosol generating material, also known as a heated non-combustible system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0084] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that uses a combination of aerosol-generating materials to generate aerosols, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may, for example, be in solid, liquid, or gel form, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. Solid aerosol-generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0085] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables used with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0086] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0087] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system (such as its non-combustible aerosol supply device) 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 matrix that can be energized to distribute power in the form of heat to the aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material near the exothermic power source.

[0088] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, nozzles, filters, and / or aerosol modifiers.

[0089] In some embodiments, consumables used with non-combustible aerosol supply devices may include aerosol generating materials, aerosol generating material storage areas, aerosol generating material delivery components, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, packaging, filters, nozzles, and / or aerosol modifiers.

[0090] Aerosol-generating materials are materials that can generate aerosols, for example, when heated, irradiated, or otherwise powered. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of solids, liquids, or semi-solids (such as gels), and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0091] Aerosol-generating materials may include binders and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, activators and / or fillers may also be present. Optionally, a solvent (such as water) may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may be soluble in the solvent or insoluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0092] Aerosol-generating materials may include one or more active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0093] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to thermal energy to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate aerosols from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0094] Consumables are articles containing or composed of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are intended to be consumed by the user during use. Consumables may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material delivery component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also include an aerosol generator (such as a heater) that generates heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may, for example, include a combustible material, a material that can be heated electrically, or a sensor.

[0095] Non-combustible aerosol supply systems may include modular components comprising both a reusable aerosol supply device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may include, for example, an electrical power source, such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol generating article may partially or wholly comprise the aerosol generating component.

[0096] For completeness, aerosol supply devices including sensing elements are known. An aerosol supply device may include a sensor and one or more sensors arranged to be heated by one or more sensors.

[0097] A sensor is a heating material that can be heated by penetrating a changing magnetic field (such as an alternating magnetic field). The sensor can be a conductive material, such that penetrating the conductive material with a changing magnetic field induces induction heating. The heating material can be a magnetic material, such that penetrating the heating material with a changing magnetic field induces hysteresis heating. The sensor can be both conductive and magnetic, allowing it to be heated by both heating mechanisms. An aerosol supply device configured to generate a changing magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0098] Depending on the arrangement, an aerosol supply device or a vapor supply device can be provided that is configured to be charged by a charging unit. In particular, an aerosol supply device combined with a charging unit is described below. However, providing a charging unit is not necessary, and therefore the interaction between the aerosol supply device and the charging unit as described below is for illustrative purposes.

[0099] Furthermore, although an aerosol supply device has been described and is described in further detail below, it should be understood that, according to various embodiments, a vapor supply device comprising a mixed-ion capacitor as a power source may also be provided.

[0100] In some THP devices, the aerosol supply unit includes an extractor, at which consumables are inserted and supplied. (Reference) Figure 1 .

[0101] The extractor can be disassembled for removing consumables and cleaning the device. After the user finishes suctioning, they pull the extractor out along with the used consumables, remove the consumables from the extractor, and then put the extractor back into the device. This is somewhat cumbersome for the user and results in a poor user experience.

[0102] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 2A , Figure 3 , Figure 3A , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The aerosol supply device 2 includes a housing 4 and an extractor element 6 (also referred to as an extractor). The housing 4 defines the main body of the device 2. The extractor element 6 may be integrally formed. In an embodiment, the extractor element is formed from an assembly of components. The extractor element 6 is received by the main body of the device 2.

[0103] Extractor element 6 includes an edge 8 and an extractor body 10. Extractor body 10 is configured to receive aerosol-generated product 12 (such as...) through an orifice 14 (also called a product receiving orifice). Figure 3 (As shown). The aerosol generating article 12 comprises an aerosol generating material (not shown) that can be aerosolized by a suitable heating element. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating element is a heating pin 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating pin 16 is a resistance heating pin, and power is supplied to the pin 16 via a lead 22. In some other embodiments, the heating pin 16 is heated by induction heating. The heating elements in the embodiments have different constructions, such as blades or tubular members.

[0104] The extractor body 10 defines a receiving portion for receiving at least a portion of the article 12. An edge 8 is located at the proximal end of the extractor element 6. The proximal end is also referred to as the mouth end because it is the end closest to the user's mouth during use. The other end of the extractor element 6 is the distal end. The extractor body 10 includes an end 11 located away from the edge 8. The end 11 is located at the distal end. The edge 8 serves as a shoulder. The receiving portion defines an article receiving space.

[0105] The heating pin 16 is held in the housing 4 on the base 20 and protrudes into the heating chamber 18 defined by the inner sleeve 24. The heating element is upright in the body of the device 2.

[0106] The heating chamber 18 is configured such that the extractor body 10 can be removably inserted into the heating chamber 18, wherein the extractor body slides in contact with the inner sleeve 24.

[0107] The heating chamber 18, the extractor body 10, and the inner sleeve 24 all have the same Figure 3A The longitudinal extensions that coincide with or are parallel to the longitudinal inlet A shown.

[0108] The extractor body 10 includes an orifice 26, also referred to as a heating element orifice, positioned to allow a heating element 16 to extend through the orifice 26 when the extractor body 10 is inserted into the heating chamber 18. This allows the heating element 16 to penetrate the aerosol-generating article 12 and generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating article 12 during use. The orifice 26 is located in an end 11 of the extractor body 10. The end 11 defines the base of the extractor body 10. The heating element 16 extends through the orifice 26 to protrude into the extractor element 6. The heating element 16 extends within the article receiving space.

[0109] The extractor element 6 of the aerosol supply device 2 is configured such that in the first operating mode (e.g. Figure 1 and Figure 1AAs shown, the extractor element 6 can be partially extracted from the housing 4. A retaining element 28 prevents the extractor element 6 from being completely removed from the housing 4. The retaining device 28a includes the retaining element 28. The retaining element 28 forms part of the extractor retaining arrangement. The retaining element 28 is on the body of the device 2.

[0110] Extractor element 6 is further configured to enable operation in the second operating mode (e.g.) Figure 2 and Figure 2A As shown, the extractor element 6 can be completely removed from the housing 4 / the extractor element can be completely removed from the housing. This allows for easy cleaning of the extractor element 6. In this mode of operation, the extractor element 6 is spaced apart from the main body of the device 2.

[0111] Extractor element 6 is further configured such that in the third operating mode (e.g.) Figure 3 and Figure 3A As shown, the extractor element 6 is fully inserted into the housing 4 of the aerosol supply device 2. In this operating mode, the extractor element 6 is received in the body of the device 2 and is in an operable position. Further insertion of the extractor element 6 into the body of the device 2 is restricted. The edge 8 of the extractor element 8 abuts against the body of the device 2 to restrict the insertion of the extractor element 6 into the body of the device.

[0112] Extractor element 6 includes a product receiving port 14 through which the aerosol-generated product 12 can be inserted during use. The product receiving port 14 is located at the proximal end and is defined by a edge 8.

[0113] Extractor element 6 is passed through a non-zero number (eight in the illustrated embodiment). Figure 3A Four of the fins 32 shown in the figure secure the aerosol-generating article 12 within the orifice 14. The fins 32 extend along the length of the extractor body 10 and protrude into the gap defined by the extractor body 10.

[0114] The extractor body 10 is configured such that it interacts with the inner sleeve 24, and the inner sleeve 24 pushes the fins 32 into the gap defined by the extractor body 10. The fins 32 contact the aerosol-generating article 12, and a frictional clamping is formed between the aerosol-generating article 12 and the fins 32. This results in the aerosol-generating article 12 being held within the orifice 14 in a first operating mode. In this embodiment, the fins 32 do not deflect. In this embodiment, the fins are rigid. In this embodiment, the fins define ribs.

[0115] Once the extractor element 6 has been removed from the housing 4 of the aerosol supply device 2, the fins 32 stop pushing against the aerosol-generated article 12, and the user can extract the aerosol-generated article 12 from the extractor element 6.

[0116] Extractor element 6 includes an aperture 30 configured to engage with retaining device 28. In other embodiments not shown, extractor element 6 includes two or more apertures 30.

[0117] The orifice 30 is configured to engage with the retaining device 28 and is configured as a longitudinally extending slot 31. The slot is in the first operating mode (e.g., when engaging with the extractor element 6). Figure 1 (as shown) and the third operating mode (such as) Figure 3 The slot extends in the same or parallel direction as the axis A (as shown). In other words, the slot extends in a direction parallel to axis A.

[0118] The longitudinally extending slot 31 forms part of the extractor holding arrangement. In this embodiment, the longitudinally extending slot is a through slot, such as... Figure 4 The aperture 30 shown may be a blind slot, such as... Figure 6 The channel 130 is shown. The retaining element 28 is configured to be positioned in the longitudinally extending slot 31.

[0119] The aerosol supply device 2 includes a housing 4, which includes an inner sleeve 24 in which the extractor element 6 is held during use.

[0120] The aerosol supply device 2 includes a holding element 28 for holding the extractor element 6 within the housing 4 of the aerosol supply device in a first operating mode.

[0121] like Figure 5 As shown, the retaining device 28a includes a spring-loaded plunger assembly comprising a housing 34, within which is a biasing device 42 in the form of a helical spring. The biasing device 42 has a first end acting on the housing 34 and a second end acting on a support plate 40. A main ball 36 is held in the opening 44 of the housing 34, and two or more intermediate balls 38 are positioned between the support plate 40 and the main ball 36. The biasing device 42 is configured to allow the biasing device 42 to be compressed when a predetermined force (related to the spring force of the biasing device 42) is applied to the main ball 36, and thus the main ball 36 can be pushed into the interior of the housing 34. The main ball 36 serves as the retaining element 28; however, it should be understood that alternative constructions are possible, such as elastic members.

[0122] In other embodiments not shown, the device 2 and the extractor element 6 include two or more holding devices 28 and a suitable number of orifices 30 serving as corresponding slots.

[0123] In other embodiments not shown, the retaining device, or each retaining device, is a resilient element. The resilient element can be any system that functions in a manner similar to the spring-loaded plunger device described above.

[0124] In the embodiments of the present disclosure shown, the retaining device 28a is disposed on or as part of the housing 4, and the extractor element 6 includes one or more orifices 30 serving as retaining slots, the one or more orifices being configured to engage with the retaining device 28.

[0125] In alternative, unshown embodiments of this disclosure, the retaining device 28 is disposed on or as part of the extractor element 6, and the housing 4 includes one or more orifices configured to engage with the retaining device 28.

[0126] As shown, the retaining device 28 and the retaining orifice 30 are positioned such that the retaining device 28a engages with the orifice 30 in a first operating mode. In the first operating mode, the retaining element 28 can slide within the retaining orifice 30. The retaining arrangement serves to guide the movement of the extractor element 6. The retaining arrangement serves to limit the movement of the extractor in the first mode. The retaining orifice 30, which serves as a retaining slot, defines a stop 29. The stop is formed by a lip 33, which is defined at the longitudinal end of the orifice 30, which serves as a retaining slot.

[0127] The stop 29 acts as a limiting part to restrict movement of the extractor element 6 relative to the main body of the device. When the user moves the extractor element 6 away from the main body (e.g., by pulling the extractor element 6 relative to the main body of the device), the stop 29 holds the element biased out of the holding orifice 30, which serves as a holding slot. This provides user feedback. Further removal force moves the extractor element 6 out of the main body of the device and into a second operating mode.

[0128] In the third operating mode, the retaining device 28 is spaced apart from the stop 29. In some embodiments not shown, when in the third operating mode, the retaining device 28 does not engage with any orifice 30 configured to engage with the retaining device.

[0129] In some embodiments not shown, when in a first operating mode, the retaining device 28 engages with one or more first orifices, and when in a third operating mode, the retaining device engages with one or more second orifices, and both the first and second orifices are configured to engage with the retaining device.

[0130] In some embodiments not shown, one or more apertures adapted to engage with a retaining device are slots, and the slots are positioned and oriented such that the retaining device engages with one or more slots when in a first operating mode and a third operating mode.

[0131] In some embodiments not shown, one or more orifices adapted to engage with the holding device are slots, and the slots extend in a direction different from the direction of movement of the extractor element between the first and third operating modes. In other words, the centerline of the slot, or each slot, is not parallel to axis A.

[0132] In some embodiments not shown, one or more slots extend in a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the extractor element between the first and third operating modes. In other words, the centerline of the slot, or each slot, is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to axis A.

[0133] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 Another embodiment of device 2 is provided. This embodiment of the device is generally the same as device 2 described above, therefore a detailed description is omitted. The features of the above-described device and the features of the device described below are mutually applicable. As described above, the extractor element 6 includes an edge 8 and an extractor body 10.

[0134] The extractor body 10 includes a retaining channel 130. The retaining channel 130 serves as a retaining slot 130A. The retaining channel 130, serving as a retaining slot, defines a stop 129. The stop 129 is formed by a lip 133 defined at the longitudinal end of the channel 130, which serves as a retaining slot.

[0135] The stop 129 serves as a restriction to limit movement of the extractor element 6 relative to the main body of the device. When the user moves the extractor element 6 away from the main body (e.g., by pulling the extractor element 6 relative to the main body of the device), the stop 29 biases the retaining element out of the retaining channel 130, which serves as a retaining slot. This provides user feedback. Further removal force moves the extractor element 6 out of the main body of the device and into a second operating mode.

[0136] In the third operating mode, the retaining device 28 is spaced apart from the stop 129. An auxiliary channel 130B extends from the stop 129. The retaining channel 130A and the auxiliary channel 130B are coaxial or substantially coaxial with each other and are separated in the longitudinal direction by a ridge 131. The ridge 131 forms the stop 129. The ridge 131 defines an island 131 formed by a portion of the extractor body 10. The retaining channel 130A and the auxiliary channel 130B have the form of recesses or grooves extending within the extractor body 10.

[0137] The common axis of channel 130A and auxiliary channel 130B is kept parallel to axis A. Auxiliary channel 130B is open at its distal end.

[0138] The island 131 has side slopes 131A and 131B extending into the retaining channel 130A and the auxiliary channel 130B. Applying a predetermined force to the extractor element will cause the retaining element to exit from one of the retaining slots 130A or 130B, pass over the island 131, and enter the other of the retaining channel 130A and the auxiliary channel 130B along the respective side slopes 131A or 131B.

[0139] When the extractor element 6 is in the first operating mode, the main ball 36 of the retaining element 28 engages in the second retaining orifice 130B and abuts against the side slope 131B.

[0140] When the user moves the extractor element 6 from the first operating mode to the second operating mode, the user pulls the extractor element 6 away from the base 20 of the aerosol supply device 2. The retaining element 28 is pulled towards and along the side slope 131A, causing the compression element 42 to compress until the main ball 36 can travel past the stop 129. Then, the main ball 36 enters the auxiliary channel 130B and travels along the auxiliary channel 1 until the extractor element 6 is in the second operating mode.

[0141] The nozzle end 130M of the auxiliary channel 130B is the end of the slot furthest from the first retaining slot 130A. The nozzle end 130M is opened or perforated through a portion of the end 11 of the extractor body 10.

[0142] The nozzle 130M includes a converging slot wall 130W, the convergence of which extends from the end 11 toward the auxiliary channel 130B. The converging slot wall 130W helps to introduce the retaining element 28 into the first retaining slot 130A.

[0143] The various embodiments described herein are provided only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of implementation and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be used and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, constitute, or substantially constitute suitable combinations of, or be constituted by, the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An extractor element of an aerosol supply device, wherein, The extractor element is configured such that, in a first operating mode, the extractor element is partially withdrawn from the housing of the aerosol supply device; and wherein, the complete removal of the extractor element from the housing is restricted by a holding element of the aerosol supply device; and in a second operating mode, the extractor element can be completely removed from the housing of the aerosol supply device.

2. The extractor element according to claim 1, wherein, The extractor element includes a limiting portion for restricting movement from the first mode to the second mode.

3. The extractor element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The extractor element is further configured such that, in the third operating mode, the extractor element is fully inserted into the housing of the aerosol supply device.

4. The extractor element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The extractor element includes a product orifice, into which the aerosol-generated product can be inserted during use.

5. The extractor element according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the extractor element comprising a retaining slot configured to engage with a retaining element of the aerosol supply device to restrict complete removal of the extractor element from the housing.

6. The extractor element according to claim 5, wherein, The retaining slot includes a retaining channel.

7. The extractor element according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, The retaining slot includes a stop configured to restrict movement of the extractor element relative to the retaining element.

8. An aerosol supply device, comprising: The casing defines the heating chamber; as well as An extractor element configured to receive at least a portion of an article containing aerosol-generating material in the heating chamber; The extractor element is configured such that, in a first operating mode, the extractor element is movable within the housing of the aerosol supply device; and The aerosol supply device includes a holding arrangement configured to restrict the extractor element from moving to a second operating mode, in which the extractor element is spaced apart from the housing.

9. The aerosol supply device according to claim 8, wherein, The retaining arrangement includes a retaining device and a retaining slot, wherein the retaining device is configured to be received in the retaining slot in the first mode.

10. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9, wherein, The retaining slot includes a retaining channel.

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9, wherein, The retaining slot includes a retaining orifice.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein, The retaining slot includes a stop configured to restrict movement of the extractor element relative to the retaining element between a first operating mode and a second operating mode.

13. The aerosol supply device according to claim 12, wherein, The stop is the spine.

14. The aerosol supply device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the aerosol supply device includes an auxiliary slot configured to receive the holding device, wherein, The stop portion is located between the retaining slot and the auxiliary slot.

15. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein, The retaining device includes one or more elastic elements.

16. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein, The retaining device is on the housing, and the extractor element includes the retaining slot.

17. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein, When the extractor element is in the second operating mode, the holding device is not engaged with the extractor element.

18. An aerosol generation system, comprising: The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 8 to 17; as well as Aerosol-generating products containing aerosol-generating materials.

19. A method for generating an aerosol, comprising: Provide an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 8 to 17; Insert an aerosol-generating article containing aerosol-generating materials; as well as Operate the aerosol supply device.

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